COURT HOUSE – Daniel Lockwood gained his seat on the Middle Township Committee in 2010 and he recalled the massive snow storm and subsequent flooding that hit the municipality soon afterwards. Lockwood took a few moments Dec. 21 at the Township Committee meeting to reminisce on six years of service.
Lockwood was defeated in his reelection bid this past November by Jeff DeVico. This committee meeting was the last of his tenure.
Mayor Timothy Donohue, also seemed downcast, said “You have to believe in what you believe and run accordingly,” making a reference to the failed election bid.
Donohue and Lockwood were the two Republicans on the partisan three-member committee which will shift control to Democrats, DeVico and current member Michael Clark. Donohue will likely lose his position as mayor as a result of the change.
Lockwood’s voice cracked at the end as he thanked those who had patience with him while he learned what he didn’t know about the job of a committee member. He spoke of pride of accomplishment.
“I think we have ‘raised the bar’ and ‘made a difference,’” he said. Calling his time on committee a “great journey,” he also noted that service in the role is a “real challenge.” Lockwood wished the new committee well. Donohue said he “Looks forward to serving with Mike and Jeff.”
Other Business
In an otherwise routine meeting that lasted less than half an hour, committee adopted an ordinance allowing the police department to expand to 57 full-time officers covering all ranks. The present limit is 52.
Before opening the public hearing on the ordinance, Donohue explained that this allows for growth, it does not mandate it.
The purpose of the ordinance, according to Donohue, is to allow temporary growth in the department so that new officers can be hired and go to training before rather than after a projected vacancy occurs.
“It takes a long time to hire and train a new recruit and get them on the street,” Donohue said. “When we know someone is going to retire, for example, this gives us flexibility,” he added.
Committee also adopted an ordinance that allows for about $84,000 in unused capital funds to be reallocated to other projects. A review of accounts for completed or discontinued capital projects showed excess funds which in aggregate totaled almost $84,000. The re-appropriated funds can be used for ongoing capital improvements.
Committee also took action to participate in the state’s gypsy moth control program and by doing so preserved its opportunities to receive grant funds for the purpose.
The state’s annual aerial defoliation survey showed an area in the north of the township with moderate amounts of damage.
To contact Vince Conti, email vconti@cmcherald.com.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
