Information Session Slated For Storm-Shattered Bayville Monday Night

Residents from the hardest-hit areas of Berkeley Township are invited to attend an informational session at the Recreation Center tonight to swap storm stories and get some advice.

Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr., Township Council President James J. Byrnes, Councilman John Bacchione, the township's engineering professionals, a FEMA representative and local business people will be on hand to answer questions and listen to concerns.

"It's kind of like meet your neighbor and help each other get through this," said Byrnes, who represents Ward 1, which includes Bayville, South Seaside Park and Pelican Island. Byrnes lost his own home in Glen Cove.

The meeting - which kicks off at 6:30 p.m. - is primarily for residents of Good Luck Point, Glen Cove, Mill Creek and Toms River Shores, Byrnes said.

"This way, they don't have to go to a public meeting on Tuesday," he said, referring to the Nov. 26 Township Council meeting.

Storm issues are expected to be major topics of discussion at the council meeting, which starts at 7 p.m. in Town Hall at 627 Pinewald-Keswick Road.

Amato has also scheduled the latest of his "Town Hall" meetings at 7 p.m. on Thursday at the H&M Potter School on Veeder Lane in Bayville, for the Berkeley Shores Homeowners Civic Association. Township professionals, including Police Chief Karin T. DiMichele will be on hand to answer any questions residents may have.

FEMA representatives will also be available to answer questions and help with claims from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. all week at the Berkeley Branch of the Ocean County Library at 30 Station Road in Bayville.