James U. Hoey

During the executive session, a Proclamation was presented to Philip Wilgus to honor his over 20 years of service as the photographer for Florence Township Recreational sports leagues. The session addressed several action items via resolution approvals, including the CWA Local 1036 Contract for 2026-2028, an agreement for School Resource Officers for the 2025/2026 School Year, amendments to personnel policies, budget appropriations transfers, and tax refunds. Public comment included inquiries regarding potential eminent domain on Route 130 related to affordable housing, and detailed discussion about the inadequacy of current municipal facilities for the growing police department and administrative offices, including the long-term financing implications of constructing a new police facility. The council then entered a closed session to discuss litigation related to Affordable Housing, possible real property acquisition, and attorney-client privilege matters.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of Resolution PB-2025-09, which concerns the prohibition of Short-Term Rentals and Commercial Amenity Rentals in Residential Zones to maintain consistency with the Master Plan. Additionally, the board addressed an application (PB#2025-03) from American Millwright & Rigging for Minor Site Plan Approval for a property at 600 Cumberland Blvd, which was postponed until the January 27, 2026 meeting. During public comments, a resident inquired about the location of the postponed application project.

Key discussions included the conclusion of the 2025 Recreation Basketball registration, noting over 200 participants and ongoing facility requests pending insurance renewal. The committee welcomed the 2026 Recreation Baseball Board and discussed their plans, including off-season maintenance, field improvements, and establishing a travel component. A discussion addressed bullpen dimensions and the possibility of permanent fencing for Legion Field usage. Updates on the Pickleball Project indicated that excavation and asphalt application are complete, with perimeter fencing ordered for Spring 2026 installation. Phase 1 of the Fieldhouse renovation bid was released, covering main floor leveling and locker room renovation. New business covered the Youth Painting for the Holidays event and the Roebling Tree Lighting event logistics. Public comment focused heavily on the structure of the recreation basketball league, competitiveness, and suggestions for improving the township tree lighting event to increase family engagement.

The meeting began with a moment of silence for Jack Jobes. Correspondence included approval of the Township Clerk's and Court Administrator's Monthly Reports for October 2025, and approval of the Treasurer's Bill List. Resolutions were passed to authorize the purchase of a 2026 Ford Utility Interceptor, authorize an additional $2,000 amendment to a contract with Holman Frenia Allison for debt issuance services, and authorize municipal support for a Cannabis Retailer License for CNDev NJ, LLC. Discussion on the Police Headquarters Building focused on the plan for a new 20,000 square foot facility to replace the outdated 1981/82 structure, including financing options through the Burlington County Improvement Authority to manage debt capacity and avoid a large upfront downpayment. The PFAS Project update indicated that the permit from the State has been received, with a planned bid award by March 31, 2026, and construction completion by December 31, 2027, with an estimated cost around $10 Million. Regarding Lead Service Lines, staff reported 80 confirmed lead tails and an uncertain material status for 1,567 lines, with the township responsible up to the main line. Finally, the Council discussed organizing holiday support efforts for needy families, including canned food drives.

The regular session featured presentations honoring Council Representatives Frank Baldorossi for 24 years of service and Nick Haas for four years of service. The council approved the minutes of the Closed Session from December 10, 2025. Financial correspondence included monthly reports for November 2025 from the Court Administrator and the Tax Collector's Water & Sewer report, along with the approval of the Treasurer's Bill List. The Police Chief's Monthly Report for November 2025 was received and filed. Two raffle applications were approved. During public comment, an initiative regarding AARP safe driving programs was discussed. A series of resolutions were adopted, including budget appropriations transfers for the Utility and Current Funds, appointments for Construction Official/Building Official/Flood Plain Manager and Building Inspector, approval for a payment certificate for 2024 NJDOT LFIF Improvements, opposition to NJ State Senate Bill #4736 concerning high-density housing conversions on religious property, authorization for a Water Conservation and Drought of Water Supply Emergency Management Plan Report, and renewal of a NJPDES Permit. Committee reports acknowledged the service of outgoing members and welcomed incoming members. Administration updates covered progress on a county bypass project, the Rite Aid intersection Memorandum of Understanding, and the Weiss housing project on Railroad Avenue. Unfinished business involved a donation request for a memorial. The meeting concluded with the adjournment.