Permit Fees Waived in Manchester for Sandy Damage Repairs

Those who sustained damage to their property in Manchester when Hurricane Sandy struck can appeal to waive permit fees for repairs.

Upon the recommendation of the New Jersey Division of Codes and Standards, Manchester's Township Council approved Monday a resolution giving those affected by the devastating storm a means to have permit fees for repairs waived. 

"There are provisions in there for proof and the final say will be with the Construction Official once he's received information in order to waive fees for those permits," said Municipal Clerk Sabina Skibo.

Waivers will be issued on a case by case basis after review, according to the resolution.

Manchester was not as severely impacted by the storm as some neighboring municipalities, though trees are reported to have struck some homes. A Route 571 home, for example, sustained damage after three large trees toppled on to its roof and garage.

Building Department office manager Marianne Borthwick said that some homes have had electrical damage from fallen trees and she expects permit applications "soon" after assessments are made.

At least three homes sustained severe damage, according to township Business Administrator Elena Zsoldos.

In an action unrelated to Sandy, the council also approved a fee waiver for the Manchester Township Volunteer Fire Company for the replacement of the heating unit covering the rental hall, kitchen, bathrooms and original engine bay.