Seniors Facing Affordable Housing Crisis

By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY

- As the cost of living continues to rise, an increasing number of seniors are burdened by exorbitant housing expenses that exceed their fixed incomes. This predicament has forced some to make difficult choices between paying for basic necessities and keeping a roof over their heads.

In a letter addressed to Governor Phil Murphy, Commissioner Director Joseph Vicari asked the state to make funds available for rental and housing assistance for older adults.

“Your age friendly stores, offices and parks are of little use if our parents and grandparents can no longer afford to live in New Jersey,” wrote Vicari. “Perhaps some funds

The Association has been asking the township to forge a deal with Tri-Boro First Aid Squad, which is in nearby Seaside Park. The township already has a shared service agreement with the Seaside Heights Fire Department for the same reason –they are close to the area if there’s trouble. Colucci thinks that having Tri-Boro as the fi rst responder will help keep people safe.

Colucci said that his plan would help the mainland as well, because this way, an emergency in Ortley doesn’t take an ambulance away from mainland Toms River.

Last year, Colucci said he and Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill agreed to have an ambulance roving through Ortley from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer. “That’s not the answer,” Colucci said. “The answer

(EMS - See Page 13)