0:28The meeting was marked by a focus on the escalating issue of SNAP benefit fraud, as explained by a representative from the Cumberland County Division of Social Services. The representative detailed the increase in skimming operations that have been depriving beneficiaries of their funds shortly after they are loaded onto electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards. In March alone, 251 households reported their benefits stolen, highlighting the severity of the situation. The representative emphasized that while federal regulations allow for replacement benefits for incidents reported before a specific date, those affected after December 21, 2024, would not be eligible for such replacements. This has left many families in a precarious situation, lacking essential resources until the next issuance of benefits.

To address this crisis, a plan was outlined in collaboration with a rural development agency to provide special food distributions for the affected households. These distributions, scheduled for the upcoming week, will include essential food items such as meat, dairy, and produce. The initiative aims to accommodate working families by organizing the distributions during evening hours. Additionally, the representative urged the board to assist in raising awareness among congressional leaders about the need for both immediate and long-term solutions to combat SNAP benefit skimming and the absence of replacement benefits.

15:31The board also delved into discussions surrounding fraud prevention and the need for enhanced security measures for EBT card transactions. A state initiative to develop an application that would allow users to lock and unlock their cards, similar to credit card services, was mentioned. However, this solution is not yet available to consumers, leaving a gap in immediate fraud protection. The local government is involved in investigations targeting both individual clients suspected of fraudulent activities and retailers implicated in these schemes.

In addition to the SNAP fraud issue, the board addressed several resolutions that impact the community. One resolution approved additional budget appropriations amounting to over $32 million, although it was temporarily paused pending a report requested by a commissioner. The board also passed resolutions concerning the appointment of members to various councils and the authorization of contracts. Notably, a resolution was passed opposing a proposed 17.23% electricity rate increase from Atlantic City Electric.

0:28Public concerns were also a focal point of the meeting, with community members voicing their apprehensions regarding youth programs and the removal of a second public comment period from the agenda. A representative from the 4-H Youth Development program highlighted staffing issues within the planning department, which have led to a decline in participation rates. The representative stressed the importance of filling vacant positions to ensure the continuity of beneficial programs for youth. These programs, particularly 4-H, play a role in developing confidence and community involvement among children.

27:55The removal of the second public comment period sparked discussion among the commissioners. One commissioner proposed reinstating the period, emphasizing the importance of providing constituents with ample opportunity to voice their concerns. The motion was put to a vote, resulting in its approval with four in favor and one against.