A Longstanding Struggle for Independence
For over a decade, residents of South Seaside Park in New Jersey have fought to break away from Berkeley Township. This long battle has finally come to an end after the state’s top court ruled that the small community can petition to join neighboring Seaside Park. The decision marks a significant turning point for the area, which has been part of Berkeley Township since its establishment.
South Seaside Park is just minutes away from Seaside Park, but it has remained under the jurisdiction of Berkeley Township, located 15 minutes away on the mainland. For many residents, this distance has created challenges in accessing essential services. Don Whiteman, Jr., a lifelong resident, explained the difficulties: “If you wanted senior services, you had to drive. If you want recreation for your son and daughter, you have to drive.”
The fight for secession began more than ten years ago, with residents arguing that their community is more closely aligned with Seaside Park than with Berkeley Township. Now, with the court’s ruling, the next step is for South Seaside Park to formally petition to join Seaside Park. Brad Lebbing, another resident, believes the move makes sense: “We are already basically Seaside. Police are down here a lot, fire department, rescue squads.”
However, the decision has not been without controversy. Berkeley Township Mayor John Bacchione expressed concerns about the potential impact on his town’s finances. “South Seaside Park represents 10.43% of our rateables and that’s a huge hole we have a $62 million budget here currently,” he said. The loss of this portion of the tax base could lead to higher property taxes for remaining residents.
Despite these concerns, the residents of South Seaside Park remain optimistic. Whiteman believes there is no indication that Seaside Park would reject their petition. He also shared a personal connection to the struggle: “That de-annexation campaign was led by my father.” Whiteman recalled how his father prepared the necessary paperwork before his death, saying, “He said, ‘Here son, take it. You may need it.'”
Now, Whiteman hopes that this time around, Seaside Park will accept his community. While the borough’s mayor has not yet received the petition, he has indicated that council members will carefully consider their options when it arrives.
The Future of South Seaside Park
As South Seaside Park moves forward with its petition, the outcome remains uncertain. However, the recent court ruling has provided a clear path for the community to pursue its goal of joining Seaside Park. For residents, this is more than just a legal victory—it represents a chance to be part of a community that feels more familiar and accessible.
The journey has been long, but the residents of South Seaside Park are determined to see it through. With the support of local leaders and the backing of the courts, they are now one step closer to achieving their vision of independence. Whether or not Seaside Park accepts their petition, the fight for self-determination has already made a lasting impact on the region.
