The Mantua police department is hitting the ground running under the new leadership of Chief William D. Murphy.
I’m proud to announce that two major initiatives are already underway as we continue our commitment to providing the highest level of public safety services to our residents.
First, Mantua has engaged the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) to conduct a comprehensive Management and Operations Study of our department. This study will provide an independent and objective in-depth review of staffing, training, operations, organizational structure and leadership, policies and procedures, efficiency and the department’s overall performance.
We already have an outstanding police agency, but we are always looking for ways to strengthen our services, improve efficiency and maximize our potential as being one of the premier law-enforcement agencies in the state. In addition, the township is engaging an independent contractor to assist with the NJSACOP re-accreditation process.
Accreditation is a rigorous and time-intensive process that typically takes approximately one year to complete. It’s a progressive and proven method that also helps law enforcement evaluate and enhance overall performance through best practices and professional standards. Accredited agencies also become eligible for insurance rate discounts.
I want to thank Chief Murphy and the members of the police department for their dedication and professionalism as we continue moving our community forward.
I’m also honored to announce that over the next few weeks, residents will begin to see the results of our Hometown Heroes Veterans Banner Program throughout the township. The first phase of this important program is dedicated to honoring Mantua residents throughout history who were either killed or missing in action in the nation’s wars.
We recently took delivery of the first 16 banners that are now ready to be displayed. They include trooper Eli McCarson, whose banner will be placed at McCarson Park, and 9/11 victim John Rodak, whose banner will be displayed at the Place of Reflection at Chestnut Branch Park.
As part of the initiative, the traditional American flags currently displayed along Main Street will be replaced with U.S. flag banners featuring the words Township of Mantua at the bottom.The military banners from this first phase will be displayed at Veterans Plaza at the township administration building and along both sides of Main Street heading southbound toward Chestnut Branch Park.
Utility poles throughout the corridor will alternate between Hometown Heroes banners and U.S. flag banners to create a meaningful tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
We are also continuing research on about 15 additional veterans from Mantua who meet the killed or missing criteria. This is a detailed and comprehensive process, and our work will continue to ensure these heroes receive the recognition they deserve. Our goal is to have this first phase of the program completed by Veterans Day.
I would also like to recognize longtime resident Gregory S. McLeer, owner of M&M Electrical LLC in Mullica Hill, for his tremendous generosity and support of this project. He and his company are donating the installation of five independent posts to house banners; as well as volunteer services; equipment; and manpower, including the use of a bucket truck to assist with banner installation.
We are truly grateful to everyone who has contributed to making this program possible through their kindness, dedication and generosity. Together, we are ensuring that the sacrifices of Mantua’s heroes are remembered and honored for generations to come.
