Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Middletown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues with low priority
Blindness Awareness Month and Camp Happiness
The township honored the New Jersey Blind Citizens Association, whose Leonardo-based Camp Happiness provides weekly activities, lunch, and free transportation for blind and visually impaired residents — a lifeline against isolation for its members.
Stevenson Park community garden
A resident who proposed a garden at Stevenson Park last year returned to offer a monthly newsletter summarizing the garden's progress.
Fluoride in township water
A repeat commenter asked the township to press New Jersey American Water to remove fluoride, saying the public is medicated without consent.
Tax assessment demonstration program opt-out
A resident again urged the committee to explore leaving Monmouth County's tax assessment demonstration program, pointing to Aberdeen's recent vote to opt out and the uncertainty it creates for property owners.
Retirement of Township Administrator Tony Mercantante
After 46 years, the township's longtime administrator got a farewell tribute, a 'Mercantante Day' proclamation, a key to the city, a 3D map — and a street name ordinance in his honor. Nearly every past and present official in the room spoke.
Volunteer Incentive Program Tax Relief
The township pays eligible volunteers $500 property tax credits to reward service; one overlooked volunteer, Ryan Eastmond, got his payment fixed, and a proposed ordinance would extend the program's homebuyer benefit.
Farm special events on 50+ acre properties
Farms of 50 acres or more can now host weddings and other special events under the new ordinance — but only about five farms qualify, and some residents want the threshold lowered.
Support for Police and Assembly Resolution 149
The committee passed a resolution strongly backing the Middletown Police Department and endorsing a state assembly resolution condemning anti-police rhetoric.
Cash Payment Rounding Policy for Pennies
With pennies being phased out nationally, the township adopted a rounding policy for in-person cash payments; taxes still require exact change.
MacLeod Rice House Historic Grant
The Committee considered applying for a New Jersey Historic Trust grant to help preserve the MacLeod Rice House.