COURT HOUSE – Middle Township is the largest municipality by area in Cape May County. That 72-square-mile size poses problems for radio communications in the township’s public safety departments. Chief of Police Chris Leusner outlined the problem at the Township Committee meeting April 20.
The spotty nature of communications, especially in some of the more remote sectors of the township, present very real safety issues for police and firefighters. The current radio system was installed in 2004, with upgrades done in 2010.
According to Leusner, problems continue. The township is looking at a possible switch to a statewide system now used by the County Prosecutor’s Office and Sheriff’s Department.
Mayor Timothy Donohue commented on the importance of the effort to improve emergency communications. “Chief Leusner has done an excellent job (of putting the information together),” Donohue said. “We will do a careful study.”
Donohue noted that there is “considerable expense involved” in a project of this sort, so “we want to make sure we get it right.” He added, “It’s time to solve this problem once and for all.”
Employee Award
Leusner was also present at the meeting to participate in the presentation of the Employee of the Month Award to Kendra Karstens, supervisor of the Police Records Department and secretary to the chief of police. Leusner presented Karsten with a floral bouquet while Donohue read the award. Donohue called Karstens “The unsung hero of the Middle Township Police Department.”
Karstens began working in the police department in 2006 as a police records clerk. She assumed her current role in 2013. Leusner cited her commitment and the high quality of her work. “We are lucky to have her as a member of the department,” he said.
Veterans Board
Donohue nominated retired Navy Capt. Maureen Harden-Lozier to chair the new Veterans Advisory Board. Harden-Lozier was commissioned an ensign in 1980. She served 33 years in active and reserve capacities in the Navy Nurse Corps.
Donohue noted that the township had a number of applications for seats on the volunteer board. He said that Harden-Lozier would have input into forming the final membership of the board.
The ordinance to form the board was introduced April 6 and is expected to be adopted May 4. Donohue commented on the importance of ensuring that the township “meets the needs of our veterans.” He added, “We need to do all that we can do.” The board is all volunteer and advisory to the township committee.
Animal Care
The committee passed on first reading an ordinance that lays out minimum standards for the care of animals “owned or kept” in the township. The ordinance sets standards and rules for animal care and attaches penalties for violation.
Neglect or abuse that causes unnecessary suffering for animals can lead to maximum penalties of $500 in fine and 90 days imprisonment.
The ordinance makes clear a “legal duty” of owners and animal caretakers “to take reasonable steps to protect their welfare and prevent their suffering.” The second reading and public hearing prior to possible adoption of the ordinance will be May 18.
To contact Vince Conti, email vconti@cmcherald.com.
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