Manasquan Beach Badges, Parking Passes on Sale Dec. 10

Nothing will stop Manasquan from opening its beaches next summer, despite the damage caused by superstorm Sandy.

Borough officials are working to assess and get damages repaired to ensure a healthy summer season for residents and tourists alike. Although access to the beachfront properties was just opened Monday, the Borough Council and Mayor George Dempsey are already getting ready for next season.

"The beach will be open this season no matter what it takes," Administrator Joseph DeIorio said.

The governing body approved several resolutions at its regular meeting Monday night that authorize the sale of beach badges and parking permits in addition to hiring eight residents to process the badges and passes.

Beach badges and parking permits will be sold starting Dec. 10 at Borough Hall, 201 E. Main St., Manasquan, at the 2012 rate, although the approved resolution allows the borough to increase fees "during the 2013 calendar year."

The badges and permits will initially go on sale at the 2012 rate. Badge rates are: $70 for adult; $35 for junior (ages 12-16); and $25 for senior (ages 65 and over). Documentation of age for the junior and senior badges is required.

A maximum of 600 parking passes at $75 each will be sold.

The paperwork will be processed by eight residents who are hired to work in December, with two at $15 an hour, five at $12.50 an hour and one at $12 an hour.