“… We are proud with the help of our residents that we are proving here in Cherry Hill that government can be both competent and compassionate at same time, that we can get stuff done and still ensure everyone in our community is treated with dignity and respect,” Mayor David Fleisher (fourth from right) said during council’s reorganization meeting on Jan. 5.
Cherry Hill is on the move.
That’s how Mayor David Fleisher described the township’s outlook for 2026 during council’s reorganization meeting on Jan. 5.
“The start of the new year naturally invites reflection,” Fleisher began, “where we’ve been and where we’re headed.
“… We are proud with the help of our residents that we are proving here in Cherry Hill that government can be both competent and compassionate at the same time, that we can get stuff done and still ensure everyone in our community is treated with dignity and respect.”
Fleisher noted progress in public safety, open space and parks, road improvements and fiscal responsibility.
“Public safety is as important as running a town,” he observed. “If people don’t feel safe in their community, nothing else matters. That’s why public safety remains such a priority.
“Over the past year, the police department (led by Chief John Ostermueller) has implemented innovative recruiting strategies to attract more candidates.”
A few hours before the reorganization meeting, 13 police officers were sworn in – 11 who are full-time probationary and two who are SLEO (Special Law Enforcement Officer) II. It marked “another major milestone in our ongoing recruitment efforts,” the department said in a social media post.
Next in Fleisher’s comments were open space and parks.
“Parks, trails, recreation activities, historic sites and building spaces are important for fostering connection, healthy lifestyles and ensuring quality of life that makes Cherry Hill special,” the mayor explained. “Last year we focused first on parks in Brandywood, Brookfield, Sandringham and Still Park.
“Moving forward, we are planning on park and facility upgrades to Kingston, Earlton, Barclay and all areas all over town. This includes Holly Ravine Farm, which is what the township purchased to protect from developers and preserve forever.”
Environmental sustainability is part of the legacy that “we leave to the next generation,” Fleisher observed.
Cherry Hill has made solar a permitted use and adopted an agriculture, horticultural commercial overlay zone to maintain 248 acres of land for future agricultural preservation. The township has also purchased electric vehicles, mowers and equipment and implemented an initiative that enabled it to plant more than 600 trees this past year.
“We have implemented one the most robust (road) improvement programs in the township’s history,” Fleisher maintained, “paving and improving over 50 miles of township roads” since he took office in January 2024.
In the new year, the township plans to upgrade and repair more than 20 miles of roads. The state Route 70 construction project that has long impacted residents and businesses is slated to be completed this summer. Fleisher said officials have tirelessly advocated for the state Department of Transportation, to ensure “there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”
As for fiscal responsibility, Cherry Hill is in the top 5% of towns with a triple AAA bond rating.
“We are the largest town by population with this rating in the state and the only one in Camden County,” Fleisher said proudly. “This bond rating is the highest bond rating a local government can achieve and reflects effective financial management.
“This rating allows us to make investments for our community in the most cost-effective manner.”
The township mall continues to be a destination for the region, with a Dick’s House of Sport expected to open this year. Market Place at Garden State Park – the former racetrack site – is booming, with various housing developments in and around enjoying great success, according to Fleisher.
“Our community has a lot to be proud of,” the mayor said. “We are seeing remarkable and record-breaking attendance at township events and programs, including the mayor’s wellness campaign.”
Running a responsive government has been the cornerstone of Fleisher’s administration.
“I am reaffirming our commitment to running our town competently and compassionately,” he promised. “I’m continually inspired at what we can accomplish together.”
Also at the reorganization meeting, council incumbents William A. Carter III, Jill Hulnick and Sangeeta Doshi – and newcomer Rob Connor – took their oaths of office. The four ran uncontested for four open seats in the November election. Carter, Hulnick and Doshi are beginning third terms.
Councilwoman Carole Roskoph, who served on council for 12 years, did not seek reelection. Nominations were made for council president and council vice president. Carter will serve another term as president and Michele Golkow will serve as vice president.
