Derick Leary

Key discussions during the meeting involved official reports, code enforcement matters, engineering updates, and public correspondence. Officials reviewed updates on the Maurice River Channel dredging and court proceedings concerning zoning issues and fine amounts, with a recommendation to research neighboring township ordinances for comparison. The OEM reported on a new weather app, and code enforcement discussions focused on whether current staff could take on housing inspections and the required training for certification. The Engineer provided updates on several ongoing projects, including stormwater reporting, road reconstruction (Magnolia Drive, Whittier Drive), and the Laurel Lake drainage improvements, and the necessity of submitting a LFIF application for Berry Avenue improvements. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to correspondence regarding the potential acquisition or leasing of the former State Police Barracks, with committee members debating the costs of remodeling versus selling, and the importance of due diligence. Concerns were also raised regarding the solar project's compliance with DEP regulations, specifically the uncapped landfill status and required permits, which led to a decision to request documentation. Further topics included discussions on accelerating the tax sale process due to delinquency, park improvements, employee benefits, and a request to address truck noise near a four-way stop.

Discussions included reports from the Bayshore Consultant regarding incidents at the channel dredging site and the need for better emergency contact procedures. The Township OEM reported on preparations for an approaching snowstorm. The Township Engineer provided updates on various infrastructure projects, including MS4 updates, Mill and Overlay of Main Street Phase 2, Milbourne Drive and Dennis Lane punch list completions, and progress on LFIF and DEP Municipal Aid grant-funded roadwork. The committee discussed and approved a resolution for a $5,000 budget increase for general engineering services. Correspondence included the Environmental Commission's annual report, a memo from the Tax Collector advocating for an Accelerated Tax Sale due to delinquency rates, and a draft purchase agreement for the former State Police Barracks, which was tabled. Resolutions passed included authorizing a tax exemption refund for a 100% disabled veteran, applying for LFIF grant funding for Port Norris Riverfront Roadway Improvements, approving a raffle license, authorizing vacation/personal time carryover for an employee, establishing an accelerated tax sale for December 2026, authorizing an electronic tax sale, authorizing coverage for the Housing Officer, a budget line-item transfer, and rescinding membership in the Cumberland Development Corp. Public input included requests for virtual meeting links, discussion on park development at the Success Center, and detailed questions regarding the Accelerated Tax Sale process.

The agenda for the Regular Meeting included several significant items. A public hearing was scheduled concerning the application for a FY2026 Small Cities Grant for Improvements to the Senior Center, covering federal/state guidelines and receiving citizen input. Resolutions addressed the submission of a grant application for the Laurel Lakes Success Center Park Improvements, identifying a Fair Housing Officer, committing to a competitive contracting process, adopting a Grant Management Plan, applying for street infrastructure improvements, and adopting a Citizen Participation Plan, all contingent upon the Small Cities Grant award. Other resolutions included authorizing the Solicitor to prepare an ordinance vacating Unimproved Somes Road and accepting a Purchase Agreement for the sale of the former State Police Barracks. The meeting also involved reviewing bills, conducting second readings and public hearings for Ordinance 2025-641 (amending swimming pool setback to 15 feet) and Ordinance 2026-643 (exceeding budget appropriation limits). The meeting concluded with open discussion and announcements regarding a rabies clinic and a St. Patrick's Day dance.

The Solicitor discussed the Mincer litigation, noting an upcoming management conference on January 5th where the individual would be in court. The Solicitor stated he would report back to the Committee during an Executive Session following the Re-Organization Meeting. Background information on the two-year-long case was provided, emphasizing that the litigant's behavior was hostile towards employees. It was also noted that the litigant has used similar tactics in other municipalities. A task was assigned to the Township Clerk to schedule an Executive Session for the Re-Organization Meeting on January 5th.

The meeting commenced with recognition and honors for Deputy Mayor Vizzard on his last meeting after nine years of public service. Key discussions included updates from the Waterfront Consultant regarding upcoming dredging in January, the adoption of the State Plan, and progress on the Bayshore Ambulance Service and a regional transportation study. The Township OEM reported on resolutions concerning a weather app and the use of houses for demolition training. Several resolutions were approved, including authorizing an acting construction official, approving the 2026 salary for Fire District No. 1 Commissioners, addressing uncollectable taxes, approving a disabled veteran's property tax refund, approving Bingo and Raffle License Applications for Laurel Lake Volunteer Fire & Rescue Inc., approving a proposal for the Local Recreation Improvement Grant application preparation, and authorizing participation in the NJCC automated flood alert application. Resolution 2025-133 concerning a five-year sand mining permit renewal for U.S. Silica was tabled pending further review by the Land Use Board and contact between solicitors. Resolution 2025-134 authorized the commencement of demolition proceedings for several properties based on safety recommendations. Contract award for Rock Salt to Riverside Construction Materials, Inc. was approved. A budget line-item transfer resolution was adopted. Ordinance 2025-642 authorizing funding for Phase 4 of the Laurel Lake Drainage Improvements Project was adopted after a public hearing segment. An ordinance amending swimming pool setbacks was tabled due to conflicting information. During the public portion following the ordinance adoption, concerns were raised about the U.S. Silica renewal, specifically regarding topsoil management, site reclamation, and environmental monitoring. The meeting concluded with administrative items, including scheduling the Re-Organization meeting, and a synopsis of an executive session regarding ongoing litigation concerning OPRA laws.