McKeon Announces Utility Improvement Legislation, Post Sandy

John McKeon spoke Tuesday at the South Orange Department of Public Works

Assemblyman John F. McKeon unveiled a package of bills to ramp up utility infrastructure in the wake of Superstorm Sandy at a news conference on Tuesday at the Department of Public Works (DPW) facility in South Orange. "It's no accident that we're in South Orange for this announcement," said Village President Alex Torpey, who introduced McKeon, along with DPW Director Tom Michetti.  In the aftermath of superstorm Sandy, Torpey said, a live wire fell across the facility's driveway, trapping DPW staff in the building. McKeon's proposed legislation is twofold, he said.  First, he proposes that the state establish requirements for newly-installed and replacement electric utility poles and transmission towers, he said. The new poles are a …

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Susan

3:27 pm on Thursday, December 13, 2012

The problem actually is that the utilities have become beholden to shareholders, not ratepayers or communities. As a result, they DIDN'T do the "few" along the way that should have been done - instead, the shareholders put the money in their pockets. So what's needed is a government with teeth (not captured by the private interests) who will demand that these changes are made (as they used to do…   more ›

Closing Monday or Tuesday? Announce it on Patch

Let us and others know if your business, shop, service or organization is closing due to the Hurricane.

Suburban Chiropractor and the Library of the Chathams will be closed on Monday when Hurricane Sandy is due to arrive in the Chathams. That's on top of the Chatham Borough Municipal Building and Chatham Township Municipal Building. Which got us to thinking — perhaps it would be very helpful if area businesses, private schools, organizations or other service providers to let others know if they are closing in anticipation of bad weather, and for how long. So tell us what's going on in the comments section below if and when you plan to close. You must be signed onto Patch to leave a comment. Thanks!

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Gov. Christie Requests Pre-Landfall Emergency Declaration for New Jersey

Governor said Hurricane Sandy is poised to strike New Jersey between Atlantic City and Toms River.

Governor Chris Christie formally requested President Barack Obama declare a pre-landfall emergency for New Jersey, according to a press release issued by the governor's office. The declaration would allow the state to request funding and other assistance for actions taken in advance of Hurricane Sandy. "We have taken this action to assist communities which have taken extraordinary measures to insure the safety of the public during this very serious and dangerous storm," Christie said in the release. Hurricane Sandy is expected to bring flooding, high winds and heavy rain across the state over a period of 36 hours starting early Monday morning. During a press conference in Pompton Lakes on Sunday afternoon, Christie said the hurricane is …

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The Week in Review

Hurricane Preparedness, Burglaries Top Local News

Think you missed anything in the Chathams this week?

Memories of Hurricane Irene and the October 2011 snowstorm are still strong for residents.  Officials recommend residents have food and water to last for at least three days. Chatham Township officials get ready for the second hurricane in 18 months. The store's grand opening celebration takes place Saturday and Sunday. Police release video of gang believed to be targeting homes in multiple municipalities in Morris and Somerset counties. Folk-rock master takes center stage at The Sanctuary Concerts Oct. 27. Some other municipal fees for 2013 will rise, will be determined over next two months. Socio-emotional and academic success, equity of opportunity included in the principles. Membership rose by over 10 players since the 2011-12 paddle …

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