Delanco Council Advances Social Media Policy and Election Preparations
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
05/20/2024
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Recording Published:
05/21/2024
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Duration:
97 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Burlington County
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Towns:
Delanco
- Meeting Overview:
In a concerted effort to enhance community engagement and streamline election processes, the Delanco Town Council has taken steps toward adopting a new social media policy and preparing for the implementation of new voting machines and procedures. During the recent council meeting, the development of a social media strategy was a prominent topic, with the council discussing the formation of an official township Facebook page, intended to share information while restricting public comments or debates.
The council’s proposed social media policy, drawn from an existing template and modified to suit Delanco’s specific requirements, aims to ensure that all posts are in compliance with open public meeting regulations and are retained as public records. The council considered contracting an archival company to maintain these records, mirroring the police department’s practices. Deliberations also included the potential costs of exceeding the post limit established by archival contracts, the qualifications of page administrators, and the prohibition of direct messaging, with a disclaimer indicating that messages would not receive replies.
Moreover, the council addressed the upcoming elections, focusing on the logistical challenges associated with the integration of new voting machines into existing polling sites. Concerns were raised about the physical compatibility of the machines with polling location doorways and the necessity for voter education on the new voting system. The discussion extended to the use of Chromebooks, the provision of Wi-Fi at polling stations, and the role of poll workers.
Additionally, the council tackled infrastructure issues, such as the adoption of a new flood ordinance which involved complex considerations, including the integration of state maps from 1978. The meeting also featured a conversation on the receipt of a Community Development block grant for a handicap ramp barrier removal program and the renewal of membership with the Burlington County Municipal Insurance Fund.
The council engaged in a debate over the state’s use of outdated flood maps, highlighting the urgency for updated regulations. This issue was brought to the forefront during the public comments section, where a community member expressed concerns about the implications of relying on archaic data for flood management.
The meeting touched on a range of community events and projects. A special presentation was made by an Eagle Scout proposing to replace the flagpole at a local park, a project that received positive feedback from the council. Updates were provided on the Sewer Authority’s progress with the trunk line project and pump station work, the county’s pathway project, and the repair work at Smithville Park. The upcoming Memorial Day parade and a variety of recreational activities, including summer concerts and a drive-in movie event, were also discussed. Members reported on their participation in community events and meetings.
Matt Bartlett
City Council Officials:
Carolyn Suess, Kate Fitzpatrick, Fern Ouellette, Michael L. Templeton
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
05/20/2024
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Recording Published:
05/21/2024
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Duration:
97 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Burlington County
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Towns:
Delanco
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