29:54The most pressing topic during the meeting centered around safety concerns in neighborhoods reportedly affected by unregulated sober houses. Resident Willie King addressed the council about disturbances and criminal incidents near his home on Mlullen Avenue. He detailed an armed robbery and a shooting that occurred close to his residence, expressing frustration at the lack of communication from local authorities regarding the incidents. King described the fear and disruption these events have caused, noting reckless driving and late-night disturbances as ongoing issues. He urged the council to increase police patrols, emphasizing the need for a safer environment.

13:15In response to King’s concerns, the mayor acknowledged the unfortunate events and assured King that the police department would enhance patrols in the affected areas. The mayor also expressed gratitude that no one was injured during the robbery. King appreciated the council’s efforts and reiterated the need for proactive measures to address the issues associated with the sober houses.

Adding to the discussion, another resident, Chris Stickerman, shared his experiences with crime linked to a local sober house. He recounted a night when police visited his home due to nearby vandalism and mentioned conversations with residents of the sober house who expressed a desire to move due to the unsafe environment. The council discussed recent legislative efforts by Senator Paul Morardi to regulate sober properties, encouraging residents to contact the senator for more information.

01:28The council also addressed a variety of other community matters. The 2025 budget for Glassboro was unanimously approved, following a public hearing held prior to the meeting. The budget adoption occurred without any public opposition. Additionally, the council passed two ordinances: one authorizing the acceptance of a property donation from the Bethlin United Church of Christ, and another adopting a redevelopment plan for specific lots in the borough. Both ordinances passed without public comment.

08:34Infrastructure updates were also highlighted during the meeting. The borough engineer provided information on ongoing projects, including townhouse developments at Camelot and upcoming roadwork planned to commence after Rowan University’s graduation. Notably, the council approved a motion to go out to bid for police and fire department uniforms.

03:44Community events and participation were also encouraged. Council members underscored the upcoming 35th annual golf tournament and the Memorial Day parade scheduled for May 26, inviting public participation and sponsorship. The retirement of Samantha A. Smith Young was acknowledged, with the council approving her retirement letter.

26:37In the public portion of the meeting, Diane Johnson raised questions about the sale of three lots on Main Street, expressing concerns about the requirement to purchase them as a bundle rather than individually. The council agreed to investigate the matter. Johnson also voiced frustration over delays in receiving deposit refunds for events held at the Martin Luther King Center and inquired about the status of restroom facilities at Elmir Park, which were noted to be a work in progress.

John Wise brought attention to a dangerous intersection at Grove and Academy, citing a near-miss incident and advocating for improved traffic control measures. The council informed him that the county is responsible for traffic management in that area.