JCP&L Input Meeting in Basking Ridge Open to Area Towns

Bernards Township officials learned from the governor's office just last week that the township was chosen for a meeting of the state Board of Public Utilities Commissioners — with JCP&L President Donald Lynch expected to attend — at which the public and officials from throughout the area can give input on how the power company performed before, during and after Sandy hit the area, said Mayor Mary Pavlini.

Pavlini said only a handful of such meetings are being scheduled throughout the state, and those from neighboring towns are invited to Monday's meeting, scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. in the auditorium at the 70 Quincy Road in Basking Ridge.

She said the meeting will be led by the BPU representatives, including President Robert Hanna. Pavlini said she believes the governor's office has scheduled about four to five such meetings in the most hard-hit areas of the state.

Basking Ridge, Bernardsville and some other nearby communities were left virtually with no power in the first days after the storm passed through on Oct. 29. Basking Ridge schools were closed for two weeks, with the last residents regaining power after 14 days. In Bernardsville, some residents had to wait even a few days longer.

"This is a great opportunity for the public to come out and ask question, give their opinion and make suggestions," Pavlini said.

She said the meeting is open the public and officials from surrounding communities as well.

The session is scheduled to be held in the auditorium of the William Annin Middle School, 70 Quincy Road, Basking Ridge.