def # 199 10/18/11
JCP&L PLEDGES COMMUNICATION IMPROVEMENTS;
FREEHOLDER DIRECTOR TO WORK WITH UTILITY PRESIDENT
OCEAN COUNTY and Jersey Central Power and Light Company officials have pledged to improve communication and enhance the
flow of information in order to help the utility customers during times of natural disasters resulting in power outages.
"I spoke directly with JCP&L President Don Lynch and I am pleased that an improved plan of communications is currently being
worked on by the utility company," said Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari. "Communication and cooperation
are key components to assisting citizens during any natural disaster. After our discussions I am confident the power company
is working to improve its approach to communications to better inform the consumer."
Vicari and Lynch recently discussed the impact of Hurricane Irene on the utility company and Ocean County and proposed
communication improvements, which are being coordinated with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and the League of
Municipalities.
Lynch told Vicari that once finalized the communication recommendations should alleviate his concerns and improve the
information flow to Ocean County residents and all other JCP&L customers.
"Joe Vicari has always been a well recognized and ardent supporter for the residents of Ocean County and I value
his input and direction to better their lives," said Lynch. "I look forward to working with him and briefing him once
communication improvements are finalized."
Hurricane Irene, made a direct hit on New Jersey and resulted in power outages affecting more than 66 percent of
all JCP&L customers. The company is working with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and the League of Municipalities
to address the challenges it encountered in providing the more in-depth outage restoration information to elected officials.
"I am pleased JCP&L and all the agencies are working in concert," Vicari said. "The end result will be better
informed citizens."
