Autism Awareness Month Declared, Lower Approves Drainage Upgrades

VILLAS – Awareness of two of society’s greatest health challenges, autism and cancer, took center stage at the April 4 Lower Township Council meeting.
Fifteen-year-old Jacyn Pisieczko appeared with his mother Lisa to help Lower Township Council declare April “Autism Awareness Month.”
Jacyn and his mother have been coming to council since Jacyn was 7 to ensure that his, and all those who have autism are not forgotten. 
Lisa reminded everyone that autism strikes one in every 41 children in New Jersey; its cause and treatment are still unknown. They brought a new video called “Normal People Scare Me Too,” as a sequel to the original film (“Normal People Scare Me”) that explained the developmental disorder through the perspectives of several young people who participated in the film project. For information, visit www.faces4autism.org.
Councilman Thomas Conrad and council also reminded everyone that the “Relay for Life” event to battle cancer is scheduled for May 14 and 15 at Lower Cape May Regional High School.
This and similar events raise billions of dollars worldwide; the Lower Township event has been highly successful in past years and members urged everyone to participate and support this event.
Capital Upgrades
An ordinance to provide funding “for various 2016 capital improvements” in the amount of $2.23 million was passed unanimously; the second reading of this ordinance, including a public hearing, is scheduled for April 18.
Another bond ordinance “which provides for drainage and storm water management improvements and associated road work to Roseann Avenue and Bayshore Estates” was also passed unanimously. This was the second reading and hearing for the ordinance; no questions or comments were made concerning this ordinance.
Hydrant Flushing
Lower Township Municipal Utilities Authority announced that a routine hydrant flushing will begin April 18 and continue to April 25. Area residents “may experience a temporary discoloration in their water; residents are asked to refrain from using water for drinking or washing clothes until the discoloration disappears.” Residents may direct questions to 886-7146.
Leaf Collection
The spring leaf and branch collection calendar is now available; there are five zones that will be serviced beginning April 11, and ending June 6. The schedule on the website is subject to change without notice. Residents may call 884-0898 for information.
To contact Jim McCarty, email jmccarty@cmcherald.com.