Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Gloucester Township public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
17 issues in parks rec
Tennis court reconditioning at Community Park
Council authorized advertising bids to recondition the existing tennis courts at Community Park, funded through the 2026 budget.
Hispanic Heritage Month Recognition
The Township honored seven residents — students, a school resource officer, a school translator, and community volunteers — whose service strengthens the community. A feel-good night that spotlighted how much schools and families rely on bilingual community members.
Lakeland Road connector trail moves forward
Council accepted bids and awarded the trail construction contract to Think Pavers Hardscaping for about $202,500, backed by a $267,000 NJDOT federal aid agreement. Councilman Nash noted the bike path is being extended toward Glendora.
Adaptive outdoor fitness grant application
The township is seeking about $15,520 from a state grant to build an outdoor fitness program serving all residents, including adaptive classes for people with disabilities.
Pumpkin Festival road closure
Mainstage Center for the Arts got permission to close the Black Horse Pike from Church Street to West Lake Avenue on October 4 for the annual Pumpkin Festival.
Gloucester Township Little League achievements and community events
Council celebrated Blackwood's senior division state championship and regional run, plus the 12-year-old team heading to the state championship. Members also promoted Movie Night and National Night Out on August 4th at three township locations.
New senior transport bus
Council unanimously approved the bid for a 2026 large senior transport bus, supporting rides for the township's senior programs.
Green Acres website link and open space acquisitions
Resident Brian Burns says most residents don't understand the Green Acres open-space program and there's nothing on the township website about it. He wants a homepage link — and maybe workshops — explaining what it is and how to apply. The council president isn't opposed and will take it to the administration.
Batting cage access for all township youth
Sam Sweet pressed for updates on the promised indoor batting cages for Erial Little League and asked to be included in planning. The business administrator confirmed the project is fully funded and moving forward at Community Park.
Juneteenth celebration and community events
Council members invited everyone to the Juneteenth celebration Saturday, June 20, at Veterans Park from 1 to 4 p.m., with music, vendors, and cultural programming.
Jake's Law Inclusive Playground at Valleybrook
Council accepted Landberg Construction's low bid and signed the contract to build the new inclusive playground at Valleybrook. Construction can now move forward.
Camden County open space grant applications
Council locked in the open space tax at two cents per $100 of assessed value — $929,314.64 total — funding the voter-approved open space and preservation trust fund.
Jake's Law Playground Bid Rejection
The only bid for the Valleybrook playground came in well over the township's estimate and budget, so council rejected it and will re-advertise for new bids.
Big Timber Creek Watershed Recreation Initiative
The township joined a multi-community watershed association working with the National Park System to open Big Timber Creek for recreation — a move a resident called a very positive thing for the community.
Martin Luther King Day of Service
Council members praised the township's MLK Day event, which drew over 600 volunteers and produced sandwiches, blankets, shoes and other donations for charities.
Jake's Law Playground bond ordinance
The all-abilities playground at Valleybrook Complex is 75% covered by a $562,500 Green Acres grant, with the remaining $187,500 at 0% interest over 20 years. The state requires a $750,000 bond ordinance as the spending mechanism. Resident Sam Smart questioned whether taxpayer exposure is truly capped.
Historic preservation grant for Gabreil Daveis Tavern
The township accepted a $150,000 New Jersey Historic Trust grant for the Hillman Hospital House at the Gabreil Daveis Tavern, and accepted a performance guarantee for the tavern's window and shutter restoration project.