Gloucester Township began the new year with its annual reorganization meeting on Jan. 2, addressing key appointments and resolutions and hearing from residents.
The meeting established the council’s structure and priorities for 2025, while Councilwoman Helen Albright Troxel was sworn in for another term.
“This is a wonderful town, and we continue to grow with new and creative ideas,” she said. “I’m honored to serve.”
Orlando Mercado took the oath of office as council president at the meeting and Michael Walters was sworn in as vice president. Both pledged to serve the township “to the best of my ability, so help me God.”
A series of resolutions was approved, including:
- Resolution 6: Designating signatories to general accounts
- Resolution 7: Adopting a cash management plan
- Resolution 8: Establishing tax collector policies and procedures
- Resolution 10: Appointing a public defender
- Resolution 12: Appointing a Public Agency Compliance Officer
- Resolution 17: Assigning council liaisons to Recreation and Parks
- Resolution 19: Appointing members to the township Dwelling Commission.
All resolutions were passed unanimously after roll-call votes. Council also reappointed various professionals to one-year terms – including municipal engineers, auditors and consultants – to ensure continued expertise in township projects. Among them are:
- Financial advisor: Acacia Financial Group
- Economic development consultant: Triad Associates
- Municipal engineer: Remington & Vernick Engineers
- Municipal auditor: Bowman and Company
The meeting’s public portion saw robust discussion about council procedures, including limitations on speaking time and transparency in its sessions. Some residents expressed concerns about those issues.
“Limiting transparency only benefits those who don’t like the questions being asked,” resident Denise Co maintained. “We will continue to demand accountability.”
Mercado defended council, citing research on meeting structures in other municipalities.
“We believe this format allows everyone an opportunity to speak while maintaining order and efficiency,” he noted.
Congressman Donald Norcross also addressed the meeting, sharing reflections on public service and unity.
“Public service is about something greater than oneself,” he said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and trust in government.
Mayor David Mayer and council concluded the meeting with optimism about the year ahead. Walters urged a focus on “peace, prosperity and getting the work done.”
Council’s next meeting will address township projects and initiatives. Residents are encouraged to participate and stay informed at gloucestertownship.com.
