Gloucester Township council addressed key financial resolutions, redevelopment concerns and resident feedback during a packed public meeting on June 23.
Council formally adopted amendments to this year’s municipal budget, following a vote to rescind the original financial plan. Resolution 244 opened the door to key revisions, including changes in interest revenue, utility operating surplus and sewer utility capital allocations. The changes were solidified with approval of Resolution 246 to adopt the amended 2025 budget.
Also approved were Resolution 247, which authorizes the sale of $32.4 million in general obligation bonds, and Resolution 248, which permits issuance of $2.28 million in refunding bond anticipation notes to better manage township debt.
An ordinance that dedicates part of Block 18301, Lot 102 for the expansion of Independence Boulevard to Cross Keys Road was passed after a public hearing. Another measure that proposes to vacate a section of Bringhurst Avenue was introduced and will be scheduled for a second reading.
Three residents voiced concerns during public comment at at the council meeting.
Resident Corinne Coin delivered a detailed statement in which she questioned council’s handling of a proposed redevelopment by the Camden-based Michaels Organization at the former Nike Base site. Coin maintained that council failed to follow standard practice by including a conditional redeveloper resolution in the consent agenda without adequate discussion.
“Designating a conditional redeveloper is not routine,” she argued. “It should never have been placed on a consent agenda without discussion. That failure is not the fault of the public.”
Coin also asked if all council members had received the full Michaels’ proposal before approving the agenda and criticized the solicitor’s delayed response to previously submitted questions.
“I reviewed and approved the agenda, which was posted publicly,” Council President Orlando Mercado noted in response to Coin. “Any council member may request items be removed for discussion. Michaels responded to an expression of interest. They’re still negotiating.
“Any future development will go before the redevelopment entity and the planning board.”
Resident Brian Burns asked about the Murray Property closing and whether the township has a tree-removal and replacement ordinance. Council responded that the closing is expected later this month and that the township is exploring tree ordinance options in future planning.
Bonita “Joy” Morrison then humorously announced her candidacy for council in the next election.
“If you can’t beat them, join them,” she joked. “It’s time I step up.”
Several council members offered remarks highlighting recent community events, especially the township’s second annual Juneteenth celebration.
“It was an enjoyable event, and I appreciate our township for celebrating Juneteenth this year,” said Councilwoman Grace Love.
“Thanks to everyone who helped make the event possible,” Mercado remarked of Juneteenth, “especially public works and police. We hope to grow it even bigger each year.”
For full minutes, recordings or upcoming meeting agendas, visit www.glotwp.com.
