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Residents urge help for basement flooding and safer sidewalks at South Plainfield meeting
Summary
In public comment residents described repeated basement flooding tied to a failing storm system under a church parking lot and asked for assistance; another resident urged police enforcement of cars blocking sidewalks; council said the borough engineer would investigate and offered referrals for charity help.
Several residents used the public‑comment period to press the council for help with everyday problems that have caused property damage and safety concerns.
At 130 Randolph Avenue, a resident described repeated heavy‑rain events that have flooded her basement and destroyed appliances. She said the storm or sewer system under the Sacred Heart Church parking lot does not handle heavy rains and requested help with expenses, noting she lives on Social Security. The resident said prior flooding four years ago ruined a furnace and other equipment and estimated recent repair costs at about $6,500.
Council members and municipal staff offered to have the borough engineer examine the storm‑sewer system in that area and asked the resident to leave contact information so staff and potential charity partners could follow up. A council member said the township itself cannot offer direct grants but can provide referral information to local charities and assistance programs.
Another resident, Jim Pinov of Calone Street, described sidewalks repeatedly blocked by parked cars and urged the police department to begin enforcement—preceded by a period of warnings and publicity so residents understand the change. Pinov noted that blocked sidewalks create accessibility barriers for people with mobility issues and wheelchairs.
Earlier in the public‑comment period, Mr. Miller thanked the borough for supporting the 40th annual marching band festival at South Plainfield High School, reported eight visiting bands from neighboring communities and announced a Nov. 1 trunk‑or‑treat behind Borough Hall with registration opening Oct. 25.
Council responses were procedural and practical: staff will have an engineer inspect the storm‑sewer near the church parking lot, police will note the request about sidewalk enforcement and staff offered to share charity referrals for the resident with flood damage.
