Cumberland County Plans Revitalization with Fairgrounds Master Plan
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Meeting Type:
County Council
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Meeting Date:
03/26/2024
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Recording Published:
03/26/2024
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Duration:
112 Minutes
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Towns:
Bridgeton, Commercial, Deerfield, Downe, Fairfield (Cumberland County), Greenwich (Cumberland County), Hopewell (Cumberland County), Lawrence (Cumberland County), Maurice River, Millville, Shiloh, Stow Creek, Upper Deerfield, Vineland
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County:
Cumberland County
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State:
New Jersey
- Meeting Overview:
In an effort to revitalize local recreational facilities and enhance digital presence, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners recently approved the 2024 Mid-County Park and Fairgrounds master plan. This comprehensive strategy aims to address the current state of the park and surrounding areas, with immediate recommendations including utility upgrades, signage improvements, and trail development. The master plan, which has been a topic of discussion since 1966, is finally set to move from planning to implementation.
The passage of the master plan was not the only significant outcome of the meeting. The commissioners also dedicated time to deliberate on shared service agreements, the installation of a 700 MHz radio system, and the awarding of professional service contracts for legal services.
In addition to infrastructure and legal services, the well-being of the county’s youth was another primary focus. The board considered several resolutions that would impact young residents, including awarding a contract for youth services and amending a contract for a probation enrichment and transportation program with a life skills component.
Public safety and health were also on the agenda, with resolutions affirming the repair and replacement of infrastructure, such as a corrugated metal pipe under Steep Run Road, and declaring April 2024 as National Alcohol Awareness Month. The latter underscores the county’s dedication to raising awareness about alcohol-related issues and fostering open conversations within the community.
Community input played a role in the meeting, with concerns raised about flooding in Upper Deerfield Township and the process for appointing members to the Disabled Advisory Council. Additionally, there were discussions about various improvements and research needed for the fairgrounds, such as the feasibility of adding a commercial kitchen, a dog park, and a splash park.
Financial oversight was maintained with the presentation of a detailed financial report for February, including the cash balance, receipts, and disbursements. While this segment did not spark debate, it provided transparency and accountability regarding the county’s finances.
The county’s digital presence received attention as well, with the recent launch of the revamped Cumberland County website. The site’s user-friendly interface was praised by residents.
Looking ahead, the county’s budget was a topic of discussion, with a scheduled public hearing set for April 9th. The potential delay in the state examiner’s review of the budget could impact the adoption process. Despite this, the budget was advertised in local newspapers and made available on the County’s website.
Issues of infrastructure remained a concern, particularly the resurfacing of Rama Road, which had been delayed due to utility companies not removing equipment. The county engineer confirmed that resurfacing would be a part of the year’s program, addressing safety concerns of residents.
The meeting concluded with a focus on community initiatives and projects. These included discussions on the need for a public library in the Commercial Township area, the establishment of a community center, and the renovation of the Board of Election’s building for increased space and efficiency.
Harold U. Johnson
County Council Officials:
Director Joseph Sileo (Director), Antonio Romero, Douglas Albrecht, Victoria Groetsch-Lods, Art Marchand, Jim Sauro, Sandra Taylor
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Meeting Type:
County Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/26/2024
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Recording Published:
03/26/2024
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Duration:
112 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Cumberland County
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Towns:
Bridgeton, Commercial, Deerfield, Downe, Fairfield (Cumberland County), Greenwich (Cumberland County), Hopewell (Cumberland County), Lawrence (Cumberland County), Maurice River, Millville, Shiloh, Stow Creek, Upper Deerfield, Vineland
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