While work continues to get our beaches and boardwalks ready in time for the Memorial Day weekend, there are still thousands of people who are displaced from Superstorm Sandy's wrath.

FEMA mobile unit
FEMA mobile unit (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
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Homeowners desperate to rebuild continue to hit brick walls. One group is planning a large rally this weekend in Ortley Beach.

During the last few months, Stop FEMA Now has been gaining ground. Now with over 8,000 members, organizers are hosting the rally and informational meeting outside the Surf Club in Ortley.

George Kasimos of Toms River is the group founder.

"The agency has been of no help. There's been a lot more confusion thanks to what they've done and those flood elevation maps are proof that something's gotta be done."

The maps are also used to set building codes and flood insurance rates. In New Jersey, FEMA is updating them, and so far many homeowners don't like what they are seeing. The revised ones are due out sometime in August.

Some of their key concepts are outlined on their Facebook group. They include:

  • The Advisory Flood Maps are "riddled with errors"
  • The exorbitant rise in flood insurance premiums is unacceptable.
  • 2nd homeowners receive no grants, this is unacceptable
  • The dunes and sea walls need to be built now! Enough talking. Eminent domain!
  • The grant money needs to be dispersed now!
  • The "Grandfather Rule" needs to be extended.
  • All seniors, disabled and veterans should be exempt from raising their homes.

Kasimos is urging everyone who shows up to make a sign and let everyone know how you feel. They are hoping to raise awareness to local, state and federal leaders.

For more information, visit them online and on Facebook.

 

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