Gloucester Township Council’s April 14 meeting began with celebration, but quickly devolved into heated exchanges, emotional testimony and calls for accountability.
What started with honoring academic achievement ended with firm statements from township leadership, strong words from residents and heightened tensions in council chambers.
Early in the session, council members recognized the recipients of this year’s Gloucester Township Scholarship Committee awards. The awards are funded through township events like the Gloucester Township Day 5K and go to local high-school seniors pursuing higher education.
Dr. Richard C. Hollinshead, who has served on the scholarship committee for nearly 40 years, presented the winners and emphasized the importance of continuing the tradition despite the recent decision to cancel this year’s Gloucester Township Day due to safety concerns.
Pennco Technical School was also thanked for its generous $20,000 donation toward Jake’s Place Playground, a project aimed at providing inclusive recreational spaces for children.
During the meeting’s public comment section, resident Jackie Smith brought up allegations of Medicaid fraud, stating that her Social Security number was listed incorrectly and expressing frustration that her claims had not led to further action or charges.
Police Chief David Harkins responded in detail, stating that Smith’s individual complaint had been thoroughly investigated, reviewed by the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office and referred to the New Jersey Department of Health and Human Services’ fraud unit. There were no charges filed.
When tensions escalated, Harkins maintained his composure.
“I am here,” he said. “I will meet with you. We’ll meet with you now.”
He then asked Smith to allow others the chance to speak. When she refused to yield the floor, she was escorted out of the meeting.
Another meeting topic was Harkins’ clarification that body cameras are only required to be activated when an officer is responding to an incident or a call for service. He took the opportunity to remind the public that operational control of the police department lies with its chief and with the mayor, not council members.
“Council has no authority to give direction to the police chief,” Harkins affirmed.
Council then defended Harkins’ cancellation of this year’s Gloucester Township Day, which turned into a disaster last June when hundreds of teenagers began fights that resulted in arrests and injuries to three police officers who tried to break up the crowds.
Council members commended Harkins for his decision to cancel and prioritize the well-being of residents and officers.
Councilwoman Carolyn Grace then reacted to the discussion happening about Gloucester Township Day and emphasized the importance of civility.
“We’re not here to be abused,” she said. “Dialogue is fine, but sometimes it’s the abuse that makes it hard to do our jobs.”
Councilman James Nash echoed her sentiments and addressed the ongoing online debate about cancelling the township event.
“We 100% support (the chief’s) decision,” he insisted. “We trust you and think you made the right move.”
Despite the tension, council members closed the meeting with messages of unity and holiday cheer. But council President Orlando Mercado did reflect on the meeting’s highs and lows.
“We all have our different opinions,” he opined, “but I do like the new format. Hopefully, we can continue to work together as individuals for the good of the community.”
