Harvey Cedars decision shows Jersey Shore is stronger than greed

Like everyone who lives in a flood plain, Jersey Shore homeowners have access to taxpayer-subsidized flood insurance. Now New Jersey wants to build dunes to protect the coastline (and their homes), at taxpayer expense. In addition to that windfall, coastal communities are willing to pay those homeowners on whose property the dunes would be built. Most are thrilled, but there are some holdouts.

Harvey Cedars offered one couple $300 to compensate them for the pain they would suffer for having their beach house protected by their fellow citizens — the loss of some of their water views. They sued Harvery Cedars, saying they should receive $500,000. Had the court sided with the couple, the entire project to protect the Jersey Shore would have been in jeopardy.