The Courier - May 8, 2008

Walsh weighed in about maps

    Middletown Democrat for Township Committee Patricia A. Walsh said she supports legislation by Rep. Frank Pallone to stop FEMA from issuing new flood maps for the Bayshore.
    "Congressman Pallone's legislation seeks a moratorium on the implementation of the "new FEMA flood maps, which would impact more than1,800 residents in Middletown," Walsh said.
    Walsh noted, "It is time for the entire Bayshore to get behind Rep. Pallone's effort. It is the only thing that will halt the implementation of these flood maps."
    According to Pallone's spokesman, Andrew Souvall, the legislation to place the moratorium on FEMA would give leaders at all levels, as well as the public, a chance to examine the protocols being used by FEMA in its deliberations about the flood maps.
    "At a time when everyone feels we are in recession, and when things like gas and food are going up, forcing people to purchase this flood insurance amounts to a new tax that Middletown residents cannot afford," Walsh said.
    Walsh said she has called the offices of New Jersey senators Bob Menendez and Frank Lautenberg to register her support for Pallone's bill.
    "The response to Rep. Pallone by FEMA makes it perfectly clear that Assemblywoman Amy Handlin's petition has no practical effect" Walsh said. "Only the U.S. Congress can halt this measure by FEMA and this legislation is vital to the interests of all the Bayshore, and not just Middletown. "
    Walsh explained that the petition currently being circulated by Handlin requests FEMA delay issuing new flood maps, and urges Pallone to take action.
    "Well, Frank Pallone has taken action. He was on top of this issue from the beginning and now he needs the support of this area and its citizens to help get this done," Walsh said.
    Walsh encouraged residents to communicate their support about this issue to Pallone at his Long Branch office, (732) 571-1140, or go to Pallone's Web site at: www.house.gov/pallone.

- Jim Purcell