Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Gloucester Township public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in environment
Sustainability grant application
The township will apply for a Sustainable Communities Grant funded by Atlantic City Electric under the Sustainable Jersey program.
Solar project at the Ecological Center
Council awarded the remote net metered solar project to Sunrock Distributed Generation, which will lease part of the Ecological Center site and supply credits against the township's PSE&G electric accounts.
Brush dumping and drainage at Marksman site
A resident says a contractor dumped brush where wetland habitat used to be, leaving ducks and other wildlife without water, and state agencies plan to visit this week. The contractor denied the dumping.
Landscaping debris dumped near Millbridge waterway
A resident reported Marksman Landscaping dumped cleared trees and brush into protected green land at Millbridge Apartments, harming ducks, deer, and water flow; the DEP was called. Council asked for follow-up.
$3M Hider Lane open space acquisition
The township is borrowing up to $3 million to buy a property that had been approved for a 60-unit apartment building, converting it to open space. A $2 million Green Acres grant is secured, 75% of the price is grant-funded, and officials say it supports growth control in a high-traffic area. A public hearing is set for February 23.
Hickstown Road natural heritage site preservation (raised by resident)
Brian Burns urged the township to use its ~$900,000 open space fund to buy a pending 4-acre, $150,000 natural heritage site on Hickstown Road that faces warehouse proposals.
Water contaminants and New Jersey American Water
A resident asked about PFAS-type contaminant litigation involving New Jersey American Water and Aqua affecting local water customers, and why required five-year public notices haven't been posted. Council asked her to provide documentation.