Hamilton Township Council Approves Land Sale Ordinances Amid Discussions on Fire Department Oversight
- Meeting Overview:
The Hamilton Township Council met on May 19, 2025, to address several issues, including approving ordinances for the sale of land parcels and transferring oversight of the fire departments to the township administrator. The meeting also featured discussions on a grant application for violation kiosks and personnel changes within the police department.
A significant part of the council’s meeting was dedicated to the adoption of ordinances concerning the sale of specific land parcels. Ordinance 21103-2025, which authorizes the sale of lot 16 block 343 on Melvin Newton Boulevard, was unanimously approved following an open floor for public comments. Similarly, the council also passed an ordinance authorizing the sale of blocks 8 and on Nashville Avenue. This ordinance includes a provision giving contiguous property owners the right of first refusal to purchase the land. During the public hearing for this ordinance, no community members offered comments, and the council swiftly moved to adopt it after clarifying the minimum bid amounts outlined in the document.
Another agenda item was Ordinance 21104-2025, which proposed the transfer of oversight authority for the fire administrator and fire departments to the township administrator. This shift in administrative responsibility was discussed in a public hearing, and, following closure of the public portion, was put to a vote. While one council member abstained, the ordinance passed with approval from the remaining members. This move aims to streamline the management of fire services within the township by consolidating oversight under the township administrator.
In addition to ordinances, the council deliberated on a resolution to participate in a grant application for the installation of violation kiosks in collaboration with Atlantic County. These kiosks would allow residents to electronically submit court proceedings, potentially increasing convenience and efficiency. Although there was some skepticism about the necessity of a kiosk in Hamilton due to the proximity of the central municipal court, the council acknowledged the potential benefits and addressed concerns about loitering. A provision was discussed that would allow the township to request the removal of the kiosk should any issues arise. Ultimately, the council voted unanimously to proceed with the resolution, joining other municipalities in the initiative.
Personnel matters also garnered attention during the meeting, particularly a resolution to rescind the appointment of Anthony Alcott as chief of police. This decision came after a motion and subsequent seconding, with one member abstaining from the vote. The remainder of the council supported the motion.
The council also introduced Ordinance 21105-2025, which supersedes a prior ordinance regarding construction permit application fees. This amendment was recommended by the construction official and adjusted following a review by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). The introduction of this ordinance was unanimously approved.
One council member recounted their participation in a law enforcement and interfaith breakfast. They also expressed condolences for a tragic car accident involving a young individual and shared experiences from an Armed Forces Day event. Another member spoke about their involvement in placing flags on veterans’ graves, emphasizing the significance of honoring those who served.
The meeting also touched on community concerns, with one resident raising issues related to traffic at the Bears Head Road development. The resident expressed frustration over a perceived lack of response from the council regarding a resolution sent by the planning board and sought clarification on whether a letter had been communicated to the county concerning the traffic zone. The mayor and township administrator assured the resident that they would follow up on this matter.
Art Schenker
City Council Officials:
Robert Laws (Deputy Mayor), Richard Cheek, Carl Pitale, Dr. Thelma Witherspoon
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/19/2025
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Recording Published:
05/20/2025
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Duration:
33 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Atlantic County
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Towns:
Hamilton (Atlantic County)
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