The debate was fueled by public comments, including those from the President of the Toms River PBA Local 137 and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 156. Both union representatives, along with several residents, strongly opposed the reduction in police staffing. They emphasized the critical role of police officers as first responders and the need for senior leadership to maintain departmental efficiency. The PBA President urged the Town Council to table or adjourn the proposed ordinance to explore alternative funding avenues for EMT services expansion.

Joining the conversation, Julian Missina, a former Public Information Officer and media relations specialist for the Toms River Police Department, presented data showing an increase in police calls and population growth over the past 20 years. He stressed the importance of a fully staffed police department to handle the rising demands, including crime investigations and community outreach programs.

James Troise from the New Jersey State Fraternal Order of Police highlighted the lack of expertise among council members to direct law enforcement operations. He questioned the rush in decision-making without consulting law enforcement professionals and the community. Troise also called for council members with previous encounters with the Toms River Police Department to recuse themselves from voting on the ordinance.

Jeff Lennox, a former captain of the Toms River Police Department, shared his insights on the potential ramifications of the proposed staffing changes. He underlined the crucial nature of the positions slated for elimination and the increased workload that would befall the remaining command staff, potentially affecting service quality.

The discussion extended to the issue of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) support and oversight. A speaker highlighted the need for EMTs while voicing concerns about the ordinance’s impact on the police department. The community’s anxiety centered around the proposed reduction in full-time officers and its effect on operational readiness and public trust.

The meeting also heard from Phil Brilliant, who challenged the accuracy of the ordinance’s information and its implications for the police department’s functionality. He referenced a previous reduction in the number of sergeants and prompted the council to consider past alternative solutions. Dana Fromen questioned the appointment of Jonathan Solis as the business administrator, scrutinizing his qualifications to oversee the police department.

The topic of public safety extended beyond the police department, as residents addressed the safety conditions at the local mall, where teenagers were reported to be engaging in harassing behaviors. Calls were made for increased police and EMT presence to address these issues and maintain order.

Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick and council members also discussed financial reserves and the impact of spending on the town’s bond rating.

The meeting continued with various other topics, including the potential for Ocean County to assume management of the Toms River animal shelter due to low adoption rates and the contention over the restructuring of the Department of Public Works. Janet Lang questioned the need for a complete restructuring and the transparency of the job implications. Council President Justin D. Lamb clarified that the ordinance aimed to formalize the existing structure and was not connected to outsourcing public works.

During the meeting, the council approved John Solanis as the new business administrator, despite some members abstaining from the vote until further information on his qualifications was provided. Discussions also covered the hiring of two public defenders and a redevelopment attorney to aid in township affairs.

The public comment section of the meeting was notably contentious, with residents and council members engaging in debates. Accusations were made against Mayor Rodrick for misinformation and calls for the resignation of the council president and vice president were voiced due to alleged conduct unbecoming of their positions.