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The first town council meeting following the historic floods left by Irene was bitter sweet.
The topics discussed centered mostly around one of the more tragic events to ever hit Oakland, but the meeting painted a picture of stability and perseverance in response to the storms extensive damage – 12 homes condemned, approximately 250 homes severely impacted, and hundreds of Oakland residents affected by the historic flood waters.
The mayor’s report provided details concerning activities of the Oakland OEM, Oakland Fire Department, the Oakland Police Department and Oakland DPW. The list included actions taken prior to, during and after the storm, with a primary focus on assuring that no lives were lost in Oakland.
Prior to the storm, efforts to minimize the flooding included the lowering of both Pompton Lake and Crystal Lake. As the situation progressed, residents in areas threatened by flooding were evacuated on a voluntary basis. At least one resident’s life was saved by the Oakland Fire Department working with mutual aid from Mahwah’s water rescue team to pull a man from the flood waters.
The mayor also addressed residents’ concerns over the oil spill in the Ramapo River stating that the Oakland water supply was never compromised, and subsequent tests have confirmed the water to be safe. There was an alert to residents with their own wells that, if the flood waters rose above their well, their well should be tested.
Residents who spoke before the council, many who often are at odds with the governing body, came only to express their thanks and appreciation for the work of the council, the first responders, and the volunteers. One resident was often choking back tears as she spoke, and another said that tonight was a time to say “thank you”, and jokingly added that the next meeting might be different.
The mayor also detailed the volunteer efforts of various community organizations, and made special note to OaklandNJFlood for their ability to mobilize Oakland volunteers so rapidly and successfully. Tina Albrecht spoke for the group, and expressed thanks for all the community support so far, but reminded residents that the need is great and to please continue to volunteer and donate time, supplies, or services.
Council member Karen Marcalus reported on efforts in the schools where lunches are being provided for students impacted by the storm, school supplies have been donated, and social services are working with those families in need of counseling due to the stress of displacement from home. She also reported on efforts of various PTOs working to help the relief efforts, and donation centers in the schools being set up.
Council member Frank Di Pentima offered a brief review on how the town will be handling the additional financial burden brought on by the storm. He estimated that the costs will amount to approximately $200,000, and suggested that an emergency appropriation will be made to assure remedial efforts continue. He advised that funds not available in this year’s budget be carried over to 2012, which is allowable under emergency situations.
The relief efforts are ongoing, and readers are encouraged to donate time, money, supplies of services.