TOMS RIVER, NJ – Power outages have plagued residents of Toms River in recent weeks, and Councilman Dan Rodrick said First Energy Corp, the parent company of Jersey Central Power and Light, must be held accountable for prolonged outages in the future.
Some residents, Rodrick said have had to wait as much as 24 hours in recent outages caused by downed utility poles and he says that’s unacceptable to the thousands of customers who are losing their perishable items on hot summer days and nights.
“We need to look into the ability to fine the power company for prolonged outages and find a way to use that money to help those affected,” Rodrick said. “The amount of outages we’ve been having and the length of the outages is completely unacceptable for the residents of Toms River. Residents are incurring hardships because of these recent outages.”
Rodrick acknowledged that downed utility poles couldn’t be fixed instantly, but also said residents without power for a day or two because of such incidents is not acceptable as the state is pushing more devices onto the grid, such as eclectic stoves, cars, and heating units.
“As we’re being forced to rely more on electrical services, we need to know that we can rely on our electrical service providers,” he added.
Rodrick said an exception should be made during a state-declared state of emergency such as a blizzard, hurricane or weather events like tornadoes where widespread damage occurs and utility crews could not access damaged lines due to weather or safety concerns.
“I understand a lot goes into fixing a downed utility pole, but I’d like to see JCP&L get off their ass a little bit quicker to make these repairs,” he added.
He said he would look into the possibility of levying fines of up to $25,000 per incent to the company for prolonged power outages during non-declared emergency events.
Rodrick serves as councilman in Toms River, but is the Republican nominated candidate for mayor in the November general election.