The meeting witnessed a compelling discussion centered around the halfway house located on Milburn Avenue in Grenlock. A resident, Mary Francis Matalavage, voiced apprehensions about the facility’s impact on the neighborhood, which is home to families, children, and elderly residents. Initially informed that the house would be a sober living environment, the community later discovered it housed a sex offender, heightening concerns about safety and the types of residents potentially living there.

Matalavage questioned the fairness of the situation, emphasizing the fear it instilled among residents, particularly affecting children who no longer feel free to play outside. She stated, “Is that fair to the residents of our street to be so intimidated by these people?” The dialogue revealed gaps in regulatory clarity regarding such facilities, with questions raised about the number of offenders residing there and the township’s capacity to oversee or limit the presence of similar facilities.

The council member responded by clarifying that the township does not control the registration of offenders, as this falls under state jurisdiction. They explained that the municipality has limited authority to exclude certain types of sober living facilities due to existing legal precedents. The council member expressed a willingness to investigate any potential violations of local land use laws, acknowledging the community’s concerns and the perceived lack of transparency in the process.

In another development, the council heard from Bob Listister, owner of Monster Mini Golf, who presented the details of his new venture in Turnersville. The new location, set to open on Saturday, occupies a 22,000-square-foot facility featuring attractions such as black-lit mini golf, laser tag, and arcade games. Listister emphasized the family-friendly environment, stating, “We are not a Dave and Busters… We are the place where grandparents can show up on a Friday night safely and have a great time with their grandkids.”

Listister highlighted the business’s community engagement efforts, noting the hiring of 20 local youths and encouraging council members and residents to support the venture. The grand opening ceremony was scheduled for 11:00 AM, featuring a ribbon-cutting and free golfing for the first 100 guests. Listister acknowledged the township’s support, which facilitated a timely opening, expressing hope for a turnout similar to the Cherry Hill location’s opening, which drew 300 attendees.

The council also discussed the introduction of Ordinance 15, amending Chapter 11 of the township code concerning alcoholic beverages. This ordinance was introduced with plans for a public hearing and adoption scheduled for July 16, 2025. The council members unanimously approved the ordinance’s introduction.

Further proceedings included a consent agenda addressing several resolutions, such as appointing Eric Haven as a part-time recycling inspector and Barbara Moore as deputy municipal clerk. Contracts and grants for various community initiatives were also approved, alongside multiple large gathering applications for events in Washington Lake Park, including the Taco Palooza Festival and Seafood Festival.

In addressing old and new business, a Council member expressed gratitude towards municipal services director Frank Almir for his efforts during a transitional period and invited participation in the upcoming Fourth of July parade and fireworks. Council members also praised the opening of the Ronald McDonald House at Jefferson Hospital, highlighting its unique position as the first of its kind within an emergency room, and acknowledged the contributions of local philanthropists John and Kathy Duranti.

The Mayor concluded the meeting by congratulating new appointees and reflecting on the successful shred event, which saw participation from 412 vehicles and collected nearly seven and a half tons of shredded material. The Mayor encouraged attendance at the upcoming Fourth of July parade and underscored the importance of emergency services in ensuring a safe event.