The legal tussle with the Tucker Volunteer Fire Company has drawn attention and debate. The borough’s legal counsel outlined the sequence of events leading to the current impasse. The fire company had failed to satisfy statutory requirements necessary for maintaining their operational status. Despite a window of opportunity provided by the borough to demonstrate compliance, the fire company did not meet the expectations laid out by the Division of Fire Safety. This shortfall led to the borough withholding the fire company’s first responder status, contingent on receiving a certification of compliance, which remains unfulfilled.

Allegations from the fire company included claims of damaged equipment and accusations of the borough withholding necessary resources. However, the borough refuted these claims, asserting that the equipment was returned legally and was sold to another fire company. The borough also faced accusations of unlawful entry into the fire company’s facilities, which were investigated and dismissed by both the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and the state attorney general’s office.

The borough had proposed a settlement to the fire company, offering $35,000 to acknowledge their service from January to June 2022. However, this offer was rejected by the fire company, which is pursuing the full amount of $70,000. The borough maintains that the fire company failed to provide the necessary tort claim notice, which would have been a critical legal requirement in any court proceedings.

Adding to the complexity, misinformation circulated on social media, allegedly posted by an individual not officially representing the fire company. This has led to public confusion, as the messages posted were not reflective of the fire company’s official stance. The borough clarified this point to ensure residents are accurately informed.

Simultaneously, public concern centered on a neglected property within the borough. Residents voiced frustration over the condition of the house, which is perceived as negatively impacting community aesthetics and property values. The council discussed ongoing efforts to assist the homeowner, who may be experiencing mental health challenges, to address the neglect without initiating a legal condemnation process. The council expressed a commitment to engaging family or friends of the property owner to facilitate repairs and emphasized a preference for non-eviction solutions.

In addition to these main issues, the council meeting addressed several other topics, including the appointment of Joseph Caputo as lieutenant for the Tuckerton Police Department. Caputo took an oath of office to uphold the Constitution and perform his duties impartially, an appointment met with unanimous council approval and celebrated with a swearing-in ceremony.

The council also tackled various legislative matters, such as the introduction of ordinances related to waste management. These included a bond ordinance for acquiring a new trash/recycling truck and amendments to garbage and recycling regulations, aimed at ensuring proper container usage and imposing fines for non-compliance.

Financial resolutions were passed, including the approval of payments totaling $724,487.10 and the insertion of a $40,000 community block grant into the municipal budget. The council also approved a resolution establishing a designated fund for the Tucker Environmental Commission, encouraging donations to support their activities.

Public works initiatives were discussed, including the authorization to purchase new vehicles for the department and a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for a roadway preservation project. The council also confirmed approvals for community events, such as a weekly bingo event for the Church of the Holy Spirit and a Fourth of July fireworks display.

During the public comment section, residents presented various proposals, including the potential use of low-speed vehicles, like golf carts, to enhance local tourism and reduce insurance costs. This idea was met with interest but would require further discussion with local authorities.