Willingboro Town Council Honors Young Prodigy and Tackles Local Issues
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
05/21/2024
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Recording Published:
05/21/2024
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Duration:
158 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Burlington County
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Towns:
Willingboro
- Meeting Overview:
Willingboro Town Council’s recent meeting saw the recognition of a young academic achiever and the discussion of various community concerns, ranging from traffic safety measures to infrastructure improvements and public services. Sixteen-year-old Jordan L. Witherspoon Johnson’s graduation from Rowan College with an Associate of Science degree in physics was a highlight, earning him a special proclamation for his academic accomplishments and contributions to the community.
The council addressed traffic issues, particularly on Beachnut Lane, where residents reported problems with narrow streets, limited parking, and speeding. Plans to implement a no-left-turn sign at the high school and increase street signage were discussed. Measures such as deploying a speed trailer, adding local traffic only signs, and considering police surveillance to combat speeding were proposed, although there was debate about the enforcement of these restrictions.
Funding allocations were another key topic, with discussions on the use of ARP monies for municipal building, park, and roadway repairs and improvements. A liquor license for a local golf course was also considered, with specific criteria and provisions under review.
The public comment period revealed resident concerns across a spectrum of issues. One resident inquired about the allocation of federal infrastructure bill funds for road repairs and budget reappropriation. There were also frustrations expressed about road safety, particularly the functionality of a traffic light on Veterans Parkway, and dissatisfaction with current trash collection services provided by Republic Services. Concerns were raised about the difficulty in obtaining additional trash cans from the provider.
Moreover, a pioneering pre-apprenticeship program for the water industry at Willingboro High School was announced. Issues with trash and recycling services were also voiced, with one resident accusing the Township manager of inadequate service provision, citing a confrontation at a recent homeowners association meeting.
Residents also thanked the council for securing grant money for pickleball courts and expressed appreciation for the proclamation of Lupus Awareness Month. They commended the Mental Health Association in New Jersey for organizing a virtual youth training session and praised the community service of the police, EMT, and fire departments. Beautification and maintenance of public spaces, such as the Kennedy Center patio and garden, were highlighted, along with the need to address littering and smoking near walk lights. Traffic safety measures including permanent speed signs and speed bumpers at school entrances were suggested, along with cameras for surveillance.
The public also praised the new town clerk and the work of the EMS, fire department, and police. The council discussed the recent Written House homeowners association meeting, where they addressed concerns about snow plowing, sidewalks, and trash and recycling cans. The process for residents to request recycling carts was explained.
The establishment of an Ethics Board was debated, with differing views on its necessity and function within the township. Some argued for its importance in reducing legal expenses, while others were skeptical about its effectiveness.
Infrastructure projects were also on the agenda, with ordinances related to a stormwater repair project for Charleston Road and the reappropriation of funds for renovation and improvements to municipal facilities. Resolutions were addressed, including the rejection of bids for solid waste collection services, the extension of the contract with Republic Services, and the authorization of the sale of surplus township property. A contract for professional engineering services related to Bro Park was awarded, and a new plenary retail consumption license was authorized.
The council also announced upcoming community events, including the Friday night music series, the opening of the Country Club pool, and the Memorial Day observance, as well as educational opportunities like the Youth Police Academy, Youth Fire Academy, and Stop the Bleed courses.
In personnel matters, the council selected Mr. James Anderson as the new OEM coordinator and announced new hires. Updates on the Starbucks construction, old Goodyear site reconstruction, and JFK theater management were provided. The manager also discussed transitioning the library and proposed increases in funding for organizations using opioid drug settlement payments.
Toward the meeting’s end, the council moved into an executive closed session to discuss personnel matters and potential litigation, signaling the close of the open meeting.
Kaya McIntosh
City Council Officials:
Nathaniel Anderson, Rebecca Perrone, Samantha Whitfield, Dr. Tiffani A. Worthy (Township Manager)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
05/21/2024
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Recording Published:
05/21/2024
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Duration:
158 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Burlington County
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Towns:
Willingboro
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