Council members and Mayor David Fleisher honored retiring Police Chief Robert Kempf after his 26-year career with township police.
Mayor David Fleisher addressed drone sightings, the township’s first winter fest and an increase in the municipal tax rate during his remarks at the Dec. 9 council meeting.
Council passed on second reading an ordinance to increase the municipal tax rate for the 2025 budget by 3.5%; for the average tax-assessed home of $227,000 that means an increase of $34 per quarter or $136 per year. Fleisher said the tax hike is the result of a $871,000 cut in state aid, as well as increased costs for tax appeals and health care, pensions, trash and recycling collection and disposal.
“This budget invests in our parks, trails, recreation activities and historic sites and open spaces,” he explained, “focusing first on neighborhood parks in Kingston, Sandrngham and Brookfield, as we plan for park upgrades in Erlton South, Barclay, Still Park and other neighborhoods.
“We are committed to a long-term plan that focuses on community needs and recognizes the importance of accessibility for all.”
Fleisher also emphasized that the budget will help with other issues, including investment in the community through a “robust improvement program to upgrade and repair more than 60 roads throughout the township.”
Fleisher broke down the tax increase for residents by noting that municipal taxes make up 12% of the overall tax bill for Cherry Hill residents, and fund local government services, from police to leaf removal. The bulk of the tax bill, 58%, funds the schools, and the board of commissioners tax makes up 21% of the bill to pay for county services.
During his remarks, Fleisher also addressed the recent and mysterious drone sightings in the state.
“Reports in our town have been minimal,” he assured, “but we are aware of the incidents that are occurring in the region and our police department continues to monitor any activities. The government as a whole continues to be in contact with the state police and other entities as well.”
In other news:
- The mayor and council lauded Police Chief Robert Kempf ahead of his retirement at the end of the month after a 26-year career with township police.
- Council also celebrated the success of Cherry Hill’s first winter fest on Dec. 8. The event featured craft vendors, ice sculptors and entertainment at Croft Farms.
