A Boy Scout from Brick is getting praise after addressing Gov. Chris Christie at his town hall event on Tuesday and pleading for help getting his family back into their home after Superstorm Sandy
Zachary Seemar, 12, was called on at the governor's town hall in Freehold. He asked the governor if he was aware how difficult the permit review process was in Brick for families affected by Sandy.
The Seemar family has been living in a trailer in the two years since the storm and have had problems getting their home rebuilt ever since. The family of four finds it quite difficult to live in such a small space.
"I have maybe this much room to do my homework" says Zachary, describing the small table he does his work on. "My books are hanging off."
His parents Kathleen and Andrew Seemar say they've battled their insurance company, the utilities, and now the town. They've ordered prefabricated pieces of a new house and just need the permits to build their new home. Permits they say are taking too long to get.
Zachary's parents and his scout master say they are proud of him for stepping up and going to bat for his family.
"It was cool to speak to the governor. It's a once in a lifetime experience," says Zachary. "I got to use his pen."
Zachary used that pen the governor lent him to write down his family's name and address so Gov. Christie can help.
"We want you to get back in your home and get you back there as quickly as you possibly can," Gov. Christie told Zachary at the town hall.
Zachary's scout master hopes his story will highlight continuing struggles for people still recovering from Sandy. Zachary did earn his merit badge for citizenship for attending the town hall.