21:54One resident elaborated on feeling targeted in a recent incident. They referenced a previous call to the police for assistance, highlighting a reliance on law enforcement while also feeling unsettled by their experiences. The individual declared their determination not to be driven out of Lindenwold, unlike others who had left, emphasizing their feeling of being targeted.

Another resident, known only as Jo, raised pressing safety concerns related to a stop sign obstructed by a fence in the Georgetown development. Jo detailed the hazardous situation, explaining that the blockage made the sign virtually invisible until drivers were nearly upon it. This obstruction was implicated in a near-collision between a school bus and a UPS truck, raising urgent calls for action. Jo noted discussions with the police chief about the issue and expressed frustration over insufficient communication from both the Georgetown Condo Association and the police.

In the realm of community services, Paul Marce commended Lindenwold’s Public Works Department, fire department, and police for their efforts, particularly during adverse winter conditions. However, Marce suggested reevaluating the borough’s leaf pickup program, advocating for the cessation of such services given the current availability of landscaping tools. He proposed investing in proper tree management to avoid future issues, critiquing the current practices of tree maintenance as inadequate.

The property reevaluation process was another major topic of concern. The council explained that the last reevaluation occurred 17 years ago and emphasized the importance of this process in establishing fair property values across the borough. They assured residents that the reevaluation was state and county mandated to ensure equitable property assessments and was designed to be revenue-neutral, meaning it would not increase overall taxes. However, residents remained anxious about how the reevaluation might affect their individual tax liabilities. The council also discussed the limited availability of licensed companies to conduct the reevaluation.

Challenges surrounding communication and coordination between local authorities and residents were evident during the meeting. A resident expressed dissatisfaction with the delay in the provision of dumpsters promised by the township. The council clarified that the public works supervisor had been in contact with the board regarding the dumpsters’ placement and was prepared to deliver them once requested. The resident’s frustration highlighted a broader issue of perceived inefficiency in communication and logistical coordination between the township and its residents.

0:15The meeting also included updates from various departments. The Mayor reported on a recent Camden County Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal ceremony, celebrating local residents Kathleen and Michael Van Stein for their contributions to the community. The Fire Commission noted their department’s response to 89 calls and completion of 39 inspections, along with progress on the L Firehouse project, where a pre-bid meeting attracted 21 contractors. Adjustments to the project were needed following a land use board meeting, and the deadline for contractor responses was extended to March 11.

Reports from Public Works detailed the collection of 724 tons of trash and other maintenance tasks, while the Police Department handled 1,797 service calls, including traffic accidents and criminal complaints. The Code Enforcement Office also reported on various inspections and violations.