A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the appointment of two new full-time police officers, Ryan B. Zacho and John E. Terella. Chief of Police Kenny provided extensive background on the new recruits, emphasizing the rigorous selection process and their local ties. Ryan Zacho, a graduate of Ocean County College and Stockton University with prior experience in Spring Lake, was noted for his thorough interview process. John E. Terella, who has a family history in law enforcement, graduated from Lacey Township High School and earned a criminal justice degree from Stockton University. He previously worked with the Ship Bottom and Harvey Cedars police departments. Both officers were sworn in with their families present, receiving applause from attendees. The Deputy Mayor highlighted the emotional significance of the moment and offered support, stating, “God walks with you every step of the way.”

However, the meeting also witnessed public criticism. A resident expressed frustration with the council’s perceived lack of accountability and responsiveness, particularly concerning the proposed construction of a QuickChek gas station. The resident argued that the station’s lights, noise, and general activity would negatively impact the neighborhood, especially for those living on Jones Way. They urged the council to prioritize the well-being of residents over what they described as self-serving interests. The speaker stated, “I really don’t want members of this Township committee to ever say that you actually care about this town and its residents because you don’t.”

The criticism extended to the council’s decision to sell a gifted property intended for public use. The resident accused the council of prioritizing development over community heritage, calling for more honesty in their dealings. They asserted, “selling a gifted property that was given to the residents of Lacey Township with the understanding that it was to be kept is another example of this current body’s lack of moral stature.”

Nepotism within the township administration was another point of contention. The resident highlighted the presence of the town administrator’s husband on the zoning committee and the candidacy of her half-brother for a committee position. They emphasized that the situation gave the appearance of impropriety and asked the council to recognize the potential implications of such familial ties.

Additional public comments echoed similar frustrations. Parry Bender criticized the council’s property management decisions, particularly the sale of certain properties that should have remained under town ownership. Bender remarked, “that property never should have been sold; it should have been kept by the town,” reflecting a broader sentiment that the council’s actions were not in the best interest of its citizens.

Further concerns were raised about potential plans for alterations at the intersection of Lacey Road and Route 9. This inquiry highlighted ongoing issues with traffic management and safety in the area.

The council also discussed the dissolution of the Bamber Lakes Fire Company due to a lack of manpower. The Forked River Fire Company will continue coverage for the area. This development was described as a “sad day,” with concerns about the increasing training requirements making volunteer firefighting less accessible. A council member noted, “340 hours of training… that’s a lot to ask,” indicating a potential shift towards paid fire services, which could be costly for the township.

The meeting addressed various administrative resolutions, including the appointment of Melanie Cruz as a Class One Special Law Enforcement Officer and Michelle Heler as a part-time clerk. The council also accepted a resignation from an employee in the municipal court office and addressed resolutions regarding the placement of liens due to costs incurred for property clean-up.

Public comments also highlighted scheduling conflicts between town council meetings and other local events, specifically a simultaneous school board meeting discussing an important referendum. An attendee suggested better coordination between the council and the school board to prevent such overlaps in the future.