COUNTY OFFICIALS GREET US HOMELAND SECURITY SECRETARY

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano spent most of Sunday in New Jersey touring the recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

Secretary Napolitano’s first stop was at the shelter set up at Monmouth University where she met with Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden, and Monmouth County Freeholders Deputy Director Thomas A. Arnone, Lillian G. Burry, Gary J. Rich and Serena DiMaso.

The shelter, which is being operated by Monmouth County in cooperation with the State of New Jersey, has been in operation since Sunday, Oct. 28. During her visit, Secretary Napolitano toured the facility and greeted law enforcement officers, representatives from Monmouth University, Red Cross workers, FEMA representatives and displaced people who have been utilizing the shelter.

“We are grateful to Secretary Napolitano for personally touring the shelter where she was able to meet the unsung heroes of that operation,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “The hard work and dedication to this effort has maintained the safety and security of the facility and those who were displaced.”

Following her visit to the shelter, Secretary Napolitano toured one of three distribution sites, this one at the Holy Family Church in Hazlet, an area adjacent to Union Beach and Keansburg, both of which were ravaged by Hurricane Sandy. She ensured that resources are being sent, that 4,400 FEMA personnel are being deployed, and that housing remains the number one concern.

Freeholder Director John P. Curley met up with Napolitano at the Hazlet distribution site. “Our residents are hurting and it is reassuring to know that the Secretary is listening and responding to our needs,” said Curley.

“It takes a united team effort, including federal, state, county and municipal officials, to help people recover and cope with the effects of this devastating storm,” said Sheriff Golden.