October 03, 2015
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie called the shore town of Margate "selfish" during a press briefing addressing preparations for Hurricane Joaquin Friday.
During his remarks, Christie noted that the hurricane was tracking east, which he said was good news for the state as the storm seems to be moving away from the coast.
After telling residents to still be wary despite the positive news, the governor took a shot at towns who opposed the use of eminent domain to build sand dunes in an effort to protect the state from storms.
Specifically, he targeted Margate.
"To towns like Margate, you are amongst the most selfish people in the state of New Jersey," Christie said.
"If this hurricane had come to shore, the damage that would have been done to lives and property in Margate - I hope it's worth the vanity act you're all engaging in.
Watch Christie's remarks here:
The governor is referring to the town's continued legal battle with the state over dune projects, a fight approved by Margate voters amid concerns over the ability of manmade sand dunes to protect the community as well as future costs of the project.
Christie stated Friday that the state would win the court proceedings regarding the projects.
According to meteorologist John Bolaris, the area likely avoided a direct hit from Hurricane Joaquin, however shore towns will likely experience residual effects from the storm.
Several beach communities had already experienced substantial flooding Friday.
