TOMS RIVER, NJ – Residents of Toms River have faced continual frustration due to power outages, and Councilman Dan Rodrick believes it’s time to hold First Energy Corp accountable.
According to Rodrick, some have had to endure as much as 24-hour outages due to downed utility poles. This has led to the loss of perishable items during hot days and nights, and Rodrick says this situation is unacceptable for the thousands affected.
Rodrick proposes the introduction of fines for prolonged outages, with the collected money to be used to assist those impacted. Rodrick considers the recent frequency and length of outages to be completely unacceptable for the residents.
While acknowledging that utility poles can’t be repaired instantly, Rodrick expressed dissatisfaction with the response times. He pointed out the increasing reliance on electrical services, such as electric stoves, cars, and heating units, emphasizing the need for reliability in service providers.
Exceptions would be made during state-declared emergencies, such as blizzards, hurricanes, or tornadoes, where widespread damage restricts utility crews from accessing the damaged lines.
Rodrick also mentioned the possibility of levying fines up to $25,000 per incident to the company for prolonged power outages during non-emergency events.
Rodrick, currently serving as a councilman, is the Republican-nominated candidate for mayor in the upcoming November general election.