Sandy Has The Town's Attention

"Watchful waiting" are the words that describe what local officials are doing as Hurricane Sandy takes shape and tracks north, says Swampscott fire Chief Kevin Breen.

At Wednesday's department head meeting Swampscott officials talked about the latest storm forecasts and models, and reviewed emergency shelter operations, the fire chief said.

This morning they plan to do the same, he said.

A little more than a year ago, Oct. 6, 2011, a perfect storm descended on Swampscott leading to widespread flooding.

Some weather forecasters are saying New England could experience major flooding from Sandy.

Over at the Department of Public Works Director Gino Cresta has his crews crews servicing the department's wood chipper and sharpening their chain saws.

They are clearing leaves from storm drains, too.

On Thursday, with the prospect of Sandy making her presence known in the future, they removed the main float from the pier at Fisherman's Beach.

The main float had remained in position to accomodate boaters what with the nice fall weather we have had.

"But we can't risk it any longer," the director said.

The department removed the other floats at the end of the pier about a week ago. 

Further action depends on Sandy and her path.