Residents of Rural Avenue, led by Seth Doncochi, brought forward alarming reports of ongoing harassment, speeding, reckless driving, attempted arson, and assault by certain individuals in their neighborhood. The residents expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of these issues by the township prosecutor’s office and courts, stating that the current measures were not effective in addressing the concerns. The council members, including Mayor Michael Mignogna and members Jason A. Ravitz, Jacklyn Fetbroyt, Michelle M. Nocito, and Harry A. Platt, listened attentively to the grievances and committed to working towards a resolution.

Another resident, Tom Kenny, raised concerns about an unoccupied house next to the Busby landfill that had become a safety issue and an eyesore. The council acknowledged the problem and assured Kenny that they would look into the matter and push for the demolition of the house.

The council also addressed a resident’s frustration over the lack of action in response to a series of ongoing issues, which included a case of arson downplayed as harassment by the prosecutor. The resident criticized the Township Court for delays and ineffective responses, which contrasted sharply with the prompt actions taken in other jurisdictions for similar violations. The resident’s concerns were about the impact on the safety and quality of life in the neighborhood, questioning the effectiveness of the local court system and the accountability of the individuals involved.

The council members discussed the specific nature of the open cases with a focus on traffic violations and the potential consequences for the individuals involved. They acknowledged the seriousness of the violations and the need for prompt action, expressing a commitment to address the issues in collaboration with the police department. The involvement of the zoning office was also discussed in relation to illegal auto repair work being conducted in a residential area.

In response to detailed accounts of incidents including being run off the road and verbal abuse, the council members acknowledged the severity of the incidents and highlighted the extraordinary steps taken to address the situation, including the involvement of a new judge and a special session called to expedite the resolution of the cases.

The meeting also dealt with various administrative and operational matters. The council approved an ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank with no discussion. Resolutions passed included the cancellation of appropriations retroactive to December 31, 2023, the award of contracts for municipal management software, an excavator, a 120-ton trailer, and a swing frame with swings. They also supported roadway improvements, released a performance guarantee, and accepted a maintenance guarantee for VHE Storage LLC, alongside change orders for the Myota Park improvements project.

The Voorhees Township Police Department was authorized to participate in the Defense Logistics Agency Law Enforcement Support Office 1033 program, which allows law enforcement agencies to acquire excess military equipment. The council also amended records of the tax assessor and approved liquor license transfers, appointments, and the recision of an employment appointment. One resolution was tabled for further consideration.

During the meeting, the council members also approved various reports and bills without any discussion. There was no need for an executive session, and the meeting was adjourned following the public comments and discussions on the residents’ concerns.

Residents also expressed frustration and fear about reckless driving behavior, with allegations of being targeted with racial and homophobic slurs. The deputy chief of police assured residents that the police department had implemented measures such as directed patrols and radar checks but acknowledged the ongoing challenges. The residents criticized the prosecutor for not fulfilling her duties and demanded accountability.

Finally, the meeting included a moment of recognition for the Eastern High School girls’ track team for their outstanding achievements. The mayor and council commended the team for their dedication and success in various competitions, highlighting the positive achievements within the community.