Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Gloucester Township public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in water utilities
Emergency sewer main repair at Landing Road
A broken sewer main at Landing and Lower Landing Roads got emergency repairs costing $172,075.81, paid to contractor R.D. Zeuli under its standing emergency services contract.
Oakland Drive sewer backups and misaligned lateral connections
A 62-year resident described recurring raw sewage backups affecting her home and six neighbors, including a camera inspection that couldn't pass toward the ball field. The business administrator will get the Sewer Utility to follow up.
Diesel generator purchase
The township will buy a diesel generator and related services from Cummins via a cooperative purchasing contract for up to $159,250.
Emergency sewer force main repair — Central Avenue Pumping Station
Council approved paying R.D. Zeuli $6,516.25 for emergency repairs to a damaged sewer force main that posed a health and safety hazard.
Sewer Utility Sale Rumors
Residents asked whether American Water could condemn the township sewer without a public vote, and Polidoro predicted the township will sell the sewer within 18 months. Mayor Mayer said there have been no conversations with council about any condemnation.
$1.8 Million Sewer Utility Bond (introduced)
The township is borrowing up to $1.82 million for sewer system work — new generators, telemetry gear, pump station upgrades, IT equipment and vehicles. It's the infrastructure that keeps the utility running; the debt service shows up in sewer rates over time.
Sewer fee billing date change
Sewer bills will now be due February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1 instead of mid-quarter dates, with a 10-day grace period. Residents can still pay early if they were expecting a January 15 bill.