Oceanport call to action: over crematorium

What can I do?

That is the question many Oceanport residents have been asking in regards to the crematorium going to operate at Woodbine Cemetery on Maple Avenue, in a residential neighborhood.

The Oceanport governing body had no idea that the cemetery had applied and been approved for and been approved for an “Air Pollution Control Permit” from the New Jersey Department of Environment Protection (DEP).

In fact, the borough has no authorization whatsoever in approving or stopping the cemetery from expanding their business to include cremations. No zoning, no variance or taxpayer input is needed. Today only authority is the New Jersey Cemetery Board.

Well, that didn’t sit well with the residents and borough leaders. A call to action was sent out and those opposed are asked to call New Jersey Commissioner of Health Mary O’Dowd; 1-800-367-6543 or 609-292-7838, according to Councilman Joe Irace. The fax number to that state office is 609-292-0053. “We know Oceanport can do great things when we work together,” said Irace