The meeting commenced with a special presentation that included a ceremonious promotion and swearing-in of police officers and supervisors. The Chief of Police, alongside the Mayor and other officials, recognized the officers’ families and thanked them for their support. Lieutenant Daniel Long was promoted to Captain after a notable career that began in 1999, which included receiving a heroism award and multiple nominations for supervisor of the year. Sergeants Paul Buers and Gerard Bobrick also ascended to the rank of Lieutenant, both with a history of service and multiple commendations.

Four officers were elevated to the rank of Sergeant of Police: Detective Thomas Ritz, Officer Randy Pierce, Officer Shane France, and Officer James Walden. Each officer’s career achievements and dedication were detailed, and their oaths of office were administered by the Mayor. The officers swore to uphold their responsibilities to the Constitution and their duties faithfully.

Additionally, six new police officers were sworn in, each with diverse backgrounds and experiences. The officers, including Officer Recruit Tyreq Campbell, Patrolman Ryan Carr, Patrolman Patrick Osborne, Patrolman John Stanley, Officer Kayla Walton, and Officer Alberto Soto, were welcomed into the department and presented with challenge coins and the Gloucester Township Police mission statement.

The council then turned its attention to the ordinance 0-24-D06 concerning the establishment of fees for the sewer utility. The ordinance proposed an increase in the sewer connection fee from $1,600 to $2,224.79 per equivalent dwelling unit (EDU). A resident named Miss Smith raised concerns during the public hearing about the broader implications of the fee increase on housing and business property costs. The council clarified that the fees would primarily affect developers and commercial entities, not local residents, and that such changes were part of their duties in managing the utility. Despite concerns, the ordinance was passed following a roll call.

Public communication addressed an issue raised by Joe Allen regarding the policy on purchasing additional recycling bins. The council clarified that additional bins were once again available for purchase by residents for a fee. Another email from Samu on Elizabeth Place expressed concerns about borrowing $160k for recycling carts and inquired about the surplus from the previous year. The council stated that they were working on the financial statements and had received an extension from the state for introducing the budget.

Dina Henry brought up concerns about the proper posting of the meeting agenda. The council assured that the agenda was posted on time in designated public places and online, though there was an electronic posting error. Shaun C. Smithman discussed a personal matter involving fraud allegations filed with the Social Security Administration and sought assistance in reopening the case based on new paperwork.

The meeting also acknowledged the importance of volunteerism by recognizing Rich Jones for his 50 years of service to the Blackwood Fire Company. The council president emphasized the need for decorum during public comment and announced that the council would be celebrating Women’s History Month at the upcoming meeting with special honorees.