Franklin, New Jersey

Planning Board

The Franklin Township Planning Board will hear presentations and public comment on three applications for minor subdivisions. Each applicant is seeking to divide one existing lot into two lots.

• PB26-02: Minor Subdivision at 2633 Sheridan Avenue (Block 701 Lot 14)
• PB26-03: Minor Subdivision at 592 Proposed Avenue (Block 1401 Lot 32)
• PB26-04: Minor Subdivision at 2156 Chew Avenue (Block 303 Lot 1)

Library Board of Trustees

The Franklin Township Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve minutes from previous meetings, receive financial reports, and consider abolishing the Replacement Card Policy. The meeting will also include a closed session.

• Motion to approve minutes from May 20, 2026
• Motion to approve 2025 Audit
• Motion to abolish Replacement Card Policy
• Motion to approve personnel committee minutes
• Friends/Board Agreement

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee will hold a public hearing on several ordinances, including a repeal and replacement of the township’s affordable housing fee regulations. The meeting will also consider resolutions to introduce the 2026 budget, renew alcohol beverage licenses, and approve a grant contract for resurfacing Williamstown Road. Additional items include a purchase of Block 4904 Lot 5, a land renunciation for Block 2103 Lot 23, and the creation of new compost‑facility positions.

• Ordinance O‑10‑26: Repeal and replace Chapter 138 on affordable housing fees and development charges
• Ordinance O‑12‑26: Purchase of Block 4904 Lot 5 returning ownership to Franklin Township
• Ordinance O‑13‑26: Renunciation of Block 2103 Lot 23 returning ownership to Franklin Township
• Resolution R‑108‑26: Introduction of the 2026 Franklin Township budget
• Resolution R‑113‑26: Approval to submit a grant application and contract with NJDOT for Williamstown Road resurfacing

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the May 11, 2026 meeting. The committee noted that Ken’s contract was extended through the end of 2026. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The next meeting is scheduled for September 14, 2026.

• Approved minutes of May 11, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Extended Ken’s contract to yearend 2026 (no vote recorded)
• Set next meeting for September 14, 2026

Communications Commission

The Franklin Communications Commission will review an ordinance update, consider an online OPRA request form, and discuss Daniel's Law. It will also address several website changes, including a rewrite of the main page and the addition of new sub‑pages such as Bids, Jobs, Business Directory, Places of Worship, Resource Directory, and Post Offices. The meeting includes routine items like approval of minutes and a public portion before adjourning.

• Ordinance update
• OPRA online form
• Daniel's Law
• Web page rewrite update
• Addition of sub‑pages: Bids, Jobs, Business Directory, Places of Worship, Resource Directory, Post Offices

Environmental Commission

The Environmental Commission will meet to discuss emergency management and hazardous waste sites. The body will review three Planning and Zoning Board applications and discuss ongoing business regarding Malaga Lake Park and Piney Hollow.

• Planning and Zoning Board applications PB26-02, PB26-03, and PB26-04
• Emergency Management and Hazardous Waste Sites discussion
• Malaga Lake Park update
• Piney Hollow update

Library Board of Trustees

The Franklin Township Library Board of Trustees will meet to review reports and conduct general business. The board will consider a motion to approve a teen laser tag event scheduled for July 17.

• Motion to approve after-hours teen laser tag on July 17
• Discussion of replacement library card fees
• Review of Trustee By-Laws
• Discussion regarding the information desk
• PERS eligibility for C. Ogren

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board granted a minor subdivision for RM Stinger, LLC at 612 Grant Avenue, splitting the 3.22‑acre property into two 1.61‑acre parcels. The approval includes variances for a front‑yard setback encroachment and the lack of an agricultural buffer easement. The board also considered Ordinance O-11-26, which would amend Township Code Chapter 253 to require non‑public entities to follow state public‑notice rules. No closed‑session items were scheduled.

• PB26-01: Approval of minor subdivision at 612 Grant Avenue, creating two 1.61‑acre parcels with variances for front‑yard setback and agricultural buffer easement.
• Ordinance O-11-26: Amendment to Township Code Chapter 253 to require corporations, individuals, and other non‑public entities to comply with NJ Stat. §35:3‑1 et seq. public‑notice requirements.
• No communications or correspondence were noted for this meeting.
• Minutes from the previous meeting (May 19, 2026) were referenced.
• No closed‑session discussion was scheduled.

Communications Commission

The Communications Commission will adopt the minutes from its prior meeting. It will then discuss and vote on updates to its website layout and color scheme, changes to the public‑notice sidebar, and the possible creation of an OPRA request form. Additional items include a review of monthly analytics and civic‑plus usage hours. The meeting will end with a public comment period.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Review and approval of web page layout and color proposal
• Review of public notice sidebar changes
• Discussion of possible OPRA request form creation
• Review of monthly analytics and civic‑plus usage hours

The Communications Commission approved the May meeting minutes and adopted the proposed website redesign using the township color scheme. It also adopted a new ordinance requiring all public notices to be routed through Barbara’s office before the Commission receives them. Additional actions included keeping the Auto Eye ADA page unchanged, planning to move ADA information to Analytics, hiring two part‑time staff for compost work, and confirming meetings are not livestreamed but recordings are on the township YouTube channel.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion by Sara, seconded by Bill)
• Approved website design proposal and move forward with township color scheme (motion by Jim, seconded by Bill)
• Adopted ordinance routing public notices through Barbara’s office before Commission review
• Kept Auto Eye ADA page unchanged for now
• Planned to move ADA information to Analytics next month
• Authorized hiring of two part‑time employees for compost‑related activities
• Confirmed meetings are not livestreamed; recordings posted on township YouTube channel
• Noted website cannot display sidebar public notices; an online submission form will be needed

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee will vote on a series of resolutions and ordinances, including agreements for school resource officers, extensions of several employee contracts, and tax-related actions. A key item is authorizing Bryson & Yates Engineering to receive an additional $31,884 beyond FY25 and FY26 NJDOT reimbursements for a paving project. The agenda also includes adopting an affordable‑housing planner fee proposal and a marketing plan for fair‑housing outreach.

• R-97-26: Authorize Bryson & Yates Engineering for $31,884 extra costs for a paving project
• R-88-26, R-89-26, R-90-26: Agreements to provide 2, 3, and 1 school resource officers to local school districts for 2026‑2027
• R-91-26 to R-94-26: Extend employment agreements for payroll clerk, technical assistant, tax collector, and chief of police
• R-104-26: Approve Burgis Associates, Inc. fee proposal as affordable‑housing planner for the remainder of 2026
• R-101-26 to R-103-26: Grant tax exemptions to totally disabled veterans

The Franklin Township Committee approved a series of routine items, including correspondence, meeting minutes, bill list and food and farm‑stand licenses, all unanimously. It also adopted several ordinances covering affordable‑housing regulations, public‑notice requirements and new municipal positions. Additionally, the committee authorized agreements to provide school resource officers to three local school districts.

• Approved correspondence and reports (unanimous)
• Approved May 12, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bill list (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 food and mobile food handling licenses (unanimous)
• Approved farm stand license (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance O-10-26 repealing and replacing Chapter 138 affordable‑housing regulations (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance O-11-26 amending Chapter 253 public‑notice requirements (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance O-14-26 creating part‑time compost attendant and full‑time program coordinator positions (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will conduct a remand hearing for ARCR Properties, LLC following a court order. The board will also memorialize resolutions for two previously granted use variances.

• Remand hearing for ARCR Properties, LLC at Block 5702, Lot 55 - Main Road
• Memorialization of use variance for Porchtown Storage LLC at 4494 Harding Highway
• Memorialization of use variance for Niraj Khanna at 572 Porchtown Road
• Appointment of Solicitor
• Appointment of Conflict Engineer

Recreation Commission

The Franklin Recreation Commission met on June 2, 2026 at the Community Center. The meeting included announcements about a Revolutionary Veterans’ Military War Memorial ceremony on June 6 and a community coin‑drop event scheduled for June 26‑27. No formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hear a presentation and public comment on application PB26-01 submitted by RM Stinger, LLC. The proposal seeks to split a 3.22‑acre property at 612 Grant Avenue into two 1.61‑acre parcels, one retaining the existing home and the other for a new single‑family house. The applicant is requesting variances for a front‑yard setback encroachment and for the absence of an agricultural buffer easement. The board also received a communication (O‑5‑2026) indicating a stand‑alone ordinance that would prohibit data centers in warehouses or other structures.

• Review of PB26-01 minor subdivision application for 612 Grant Avenue
• Consideration of variance for existing front‑yard setback encroachment
• Consideration of variance for lack of agricultural buffer easement
• Communication O‑5‑2026: ordinance prohibiting data centers in warehouses or other structures

Communications Commission

The Franklin Communications Commission met on May 13, 2026, with two members present and several members absent. A motion was made by Sara to approve the April minutes, seconded by Bill. The board discussed adding an OPRA link to the website, ADA compliance status, and the upcoming website redesign, but no formal actions were recorded. The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Bill, seconded by Sara.

Senior Citizen Advisory Committee

Township Committee

The meeting will approve various 2026 licenses for local businesses and organizations. The Committee will vote on several resolutions, including reappointing Christina Mulford, restricting bicycle traffic on Route 55, authorizing a fireworks display for National Night Out, and an emergency temporary budget resolution under N.J.S.A. 40A:4‑20. Ordinances to be adopted cover new fire inspection fees, municipal budget appropriation limits and a CAP bank, a prohibition on data centers in all zoning districts, and traffic movement rules on municipal and school property.

• Approve 2026 Mobile Food License for Buon Viaggio, Green Garden Cafe
• Approve Farm Stand License for DeVard & Drakar – 1792 Harding Hwy
• Resolution R‑82‑26 – Emergency Temporary Budget Resolution (N.J.S.A. 40A:4‑20)
• Ordinance O‑5‑26 – Prohibit Data Centers in all zoning districts
• Ordinance O‑4‑26 – Establish 2026 municipal budget appropriations limits and a CAP bank

The Franklin Township Committee unanimously adopted several resolutions, including a new fee schedule for non‑life hazard inspections, the 2026 municipal budget appropriations limits with a CAP Bank, and an amendment that defines data centers as prohibited uses. It also approved changes to traffic movement rules, authorized a closed executive meeting, and approved a police agreement for the National Night Out celebration. Additionally, the committee appointed a water and sewer engineer and adopted an emergency temporary budget resolution.

• Adopted O-3-26 fee schedule for non‑life hazard inspections (unanimous)
• Adopted O-4-26 2026 municipal budget limits and CAP Bank (unanimous)
• Adopted O-5-26 amendment defining data centers as prohibited uses (unanimous)
• Adopted O-6-26 amendment to Chapter 373‑34 moving traffic on municipal and school property (unanimous)
• Authorized closed executive meeting per R‑78‑26 (unanimous)
• Authorized Chief of Police agreement with American Bounce for National Night Out (R‑80‑26, unanimous)
• Appointed Township Water and Sewer Engineer (R‑81‑26, unanimous)
• Adopted emergency temporary budget resolution (R‑82‑26, unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 8, 2026 meeting. No new farm preservation applications were approved; the committee noted ongoing discussions with several farms. Ken’s contract with the township was extended through the end of 2026. The next meeting was scheduled for July 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM.

• Approved minutes from the March 8, 2026 meeting
• Extended Ken’s contract to year‑end 2026

Recreation Commission

The commission approved a permit for the June 26‑27 coin‑drop event. It also decided to hold the next meeting at the Ambulance Building. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved coin‑drop permit for June 26 (4 p.m.–8 p.m.) and June 27 (8 a.m.–noon)
• Decided to move the next Recreation Commission meeting to the Ambulance Building

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board will conduct a remand hearing regarding a variance for a single-family home on Main Road. The board will also memorialize resolutions for two previously granted use variances.

• ZB25-08: Remand hearing for ARCR Properties, LLC to build a house at Block 5702, Lot 55 (Main Road)
• ZB25-23: Memorialization of use variance for Porchtown Storage LLC at 4494 Harding Highway
• ZB26-01: Memorialization of use variance for Niraj Khanna at 572 Porchtown Road

Historical Advisory Committee

The Historical Advisory Committee received an update on the military funeral service for two Revolutionary War veterans to be held on June 6, 2026. Members discussed details including the Marine Corps rifle salute, 21‑gun salute, flags, seating, refreshments, and possible flyer distribution. The committee noted pending confirmation of Congressman Jeff VanDrew’s attendance and that the county will film the event. No formal decisions or votes were recorded.

Library Board of Trustees

The Franklin Township Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting with standard procedural items and a new business item to review and discuss the library's bylaws and trustee manual. The meeting includes a first public portion, the new business discussion, a second public portion, and a closed session. The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 20 at 7:00 pm.

• Review and discuss library bylaws and trustee manual (new business)
• First public portion
• Second public portion
• Closed session

The Library Board unanimously approved motions to open and close the first and second public portions of the meeting, as well as to open and close a closed session. The board also unanimously moved to adjourn the meeting. A review of the bylaws and trustee manual was discussed, but no formal action was taken.

• Opened First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Opened Closed Session (unanimous)
• Closed Closed Session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Environmental Commission

The Franklin Township Environmental Commission meeting on April 27, 2026 will consider the minutes from February 23, 2026 and hear from guests. It will discuss emergency management and hazardous waste sites, and review one Zoning and Planning Board application identified as PB 2 6-01. The commission will also address old‑business items for Malaga Lake Park and Piney Hollow Preserve, and a new‑business item for Community Day.

• Review of Zoning and Planning Board Application PB 2 6-01
• Discussion of Emergency Management and Hazardous Waste Sites
• Old Business – Malaga Lake Park
• Old Business – Piney Hollow Preserve
• New Business – Community Day

Planning Board

The Franklin Township Planning Board will consider two items: a public presentation on PB25-03, a request by Anaisa Investments, Inc. for an extension of a minor subdivision approval for lots on Delsea Drive and Paul Street; and an ordinance amendment to Township Code Chapter 253 that defines "data center" and "computer center" and designates data centers as prohibited uses in every zoning district. No resolutions or closed‑session items are scheduled.

• PB25-03 – Anaisa Investments, Inc. request for extension of minor subdivision approval for Block 3908 Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 32, 33 on Delsea Drive and Paul Street
• Ordinance O-5-2026 amending Township Code Chapter 253 (definitions and prohibited uses) to define data center/computer center and confirm data centers are prohibited in all zoning districts
• Appointment of Conflict Engineer for the remainder of 2026

The Board granted a 120‑day extension for subdivision PB25‑03 with a 7‑0 vote. It also voted unanimously to recommend Ordinance O‑5‑2026, which defines and prohibits data centers in every zoning district, to the Township Committee.

• Granted 120‑day extension for PB25‑03 subdivision (7‑0 vote)
• Recommended Ordinance O‑5‑2026 to prohibit data centers (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board accepted the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports and conducted only procedural motions to open and close the public portions of the meeting. No policy changes, contracts, or other substantive matters were decided.

• Opened First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Accepted Secretary’s report (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee will vote on a series of resolutions and ordinances, including a request for supplemental HDSRF grant funds to remediate the USA Gas site at 724 Delsea Drive. Other items include appointing an engineering firm for Pennsylvania Avenue landfill monitoring, authorizing the sale of surplus vehicles on GOVDEALS.COM, and introducing ordinances that would prohibit data centers in all zoning districts. The meeting also schedules public hearings for several zoning and affordable‑housing related ordinances.

• R-65-26 – Direct the Administrator to submit documentation to NJEDA for additional HDSRF grant monies for remediation at 724 Delsea Drive (USA Gas).
• R-66-26 – Appoint an engineering firm to provide landfill monitoring services for Pennsylvania Avenue Landfill/Fields.
• R-70-26 – Authorize the Administrator to sell surplus township vehicles on GOVDEALS.COM.
• R-71-26 – Authorize a closed executive meeting for the Township Committee.
• O-5-2026 – Amend the township code to define and prohibit data centers in all zoning districts.

The Township Committee approved several resolutions, including authorizing a referral to the Planning Board for the AI/Data Centers prohibited ordinance (R-64-26). It also approved documentation for a supplemental NJEDA grant, the appointment of an engineering firm for landfill monitoring, tax exemptions for three disabled veterans, and the sale of surplus township vehicles. A resolution to settle with ALR LLC and another with the NJ Fair Share Housing Commission were rejected. Additional ordinances were introduced for future public hearings.

• Approved R-64-26: Referral to Planning Board for AI/Data Centers prohibited ordinance
• Approved R-65-26: Submit documentation to NJEDA for supplemental HDSRF grant
• Approved R-66-26: Appoint engineering firm for Pennsylvania Avenue landfill monitoring
• Approved R-67-26, R-68-26, R-69-26: Tax exemptions for totally disabled veterans
• Approved R-70-26: Sell surplus township vehicles on GovDeals.com
• Approved R-71-26: Authorize a closed executive meeting
• Failed R-72-26: Mediate settlement with ALR LLC (unanimous no)
• Failed R-73-26: Mediate settlement with NJ Fair Share Housing Commission (unanimous no)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board will review three variance requests. One request from Porchtown Storage LLC seeks a use variance for a mixed‑use commercial and self‑storage facility at 4494 Harding Highway, Newfield, NJ. A second request from Niraj Khanna seeks a use variance to change a retail food establishment to a convenience store at 572 Porchtown Road, Franklinville, NJ. A third request from ARCR Properties, LLC seeks a C‑variance to build a single‑family house on Main Road, Franklinville, NJ, reducing the required lot frontage from 150 ft to 10 ft as the lot is non‑conforming.

• Use variance – Porchtown Storage LLC – 4494 Harding Highway, Newfield, NJ – mixed‑use commercial and self‑storage facility
• Use variance – Niraj Khanna – 572 Porchtown Road, Franklinville, NJ – convert retail food establishment to convenience store
• C variance (amended) – ARCR Properties, LLC – Main Road, Franklinville, NJ – single‑family house, lot frontage reduction from 150 ft to 10 ft

The board heard a presentation on a use variance request for Porchtown Storage LLC. No approval, denial, or tabled action on the variance was recorded. Two procedural motions were passed unanimously, but their specific content was not detailed in the minutes.

• Unanimous procedural motion passed (details not specified)

Library Board of Trustees

The Franklin Township Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting, reviewing minutes, reports, and committee updates. In the New Business section, trustees will discuss a budget amendment and the allocation of training hours for trustees. The meeting includes both public and closed sessions before adjourning.

• Budget amendment
• Trustee training hours

The Library Board unanimously approved the February meeting minutes, the budget committee minutes, and a $12,500 amendment to the 2026 budget that adds revenue and an expense line for the Glanton Fund. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Accepted Secretary's report (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Approved February 11 budget committee minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $12,500 budget amendment for Glanton Fund (unanimous)
• Opened First Public Portion at 7:01 pm (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion at 7:01 pm (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion at 8:03 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:04 pm (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is meeting to adopt resolutions for three minor subdivisions and one major site plan. These items include residential and farmland divisions and a large industrial project.

• PB25-05: Minor subdivision of 20.148-acre property at 216 Delsea Drive
• PB25-06: Minor subdivision of Lots 44 & 45 at 248 and 330 Fergeson Avenue
• PB25-07: Minor subdivision of 19.8-acre farmland at Catawba Avenue
• SP25-04: Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan for a 200,200 SF cold storage facility at 1520 Harding Highway

The Franklin Township Planning Board voted to approve three minor subdivision applications (PB25-05, PB25-06, PB25-07) and one major site‑plan (SP25-04). All present members voted in favor of each resolution, resulting in unanimous approvals. No variances were required for the site‑plan, while the subdivisions required specific variances that were granted.

• Approved PB25-05 (James Castelli minor subdivision) – unanimous
• Approved PB25-06 (Amber Degraff Irrevocable Trust minor subdivision) – unanimous
• Approved PB25-07 (941 Garrison LLC minor subdivision) – unanimous
• Approved SP25-04 (Newfield Land, LLC major site plan) – unanimous

Senior Citizen Advisory Committee

Township Committee

The Township Committee will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to the police services section of the code book. The body is also deciding on an emergency temporary budget and various tax exemptions for disabled veterans.

• Public hearing on Ordinance O-2-26 amending Chapter 290, Police Services
• Contract award to Lawn Connection Inc. for 2026 turf care maintenance totaling $13,155.13
• Resolution R-53-26 approving an Emergency Temporary Budget
• Farm stand licenses for 976 Dutch Mill Road and 1595 Piney Hollow Rd
• Trade of surplus police property for three new Colt Carbine .223 patrol rifles

The committee approved the correspondence and reports, February 10 minutes, 2026 licenses and a farm‑stand license, all by unanimous vote. It opened and then closed the public hearing on amendment O‑2‑26 to the Police Services code. The first public portion of resolutions and ordinances was approved, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved correspondence and reports (unanimous)
• Approved February 10, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 licenses (unanimous)
• Approved farm‑stand license (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on O‑2‑26 police code amendment (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on O‑2‑26 police code amendment (unanimous)
• Approved first public portion of resolutions and ordinances (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the Jan 12, 2026 meeting. It recorded that $13,700 for Martorana Farm appraisal, survey, and title‑work expenses was deposited into the Open Space Dedicated Account on Feb 10, 2026. The committee also noted that Ken’s contract was extended through the end of 2026. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from the Jan 12, 2026 meeting
• Recorded $13,700 reimbursement deposited for Martorana Farm expenses
• Extended Ken’s contract through year‑end 2026

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board is reviewing a use variance for a retail and self-storage facility. The board is also memorializing several previous decisions regarding residential additions and industrial use variances.

• ZB25-23: Use variance request for retail and self-storage at 4494 Harding Highway
• ZB25-19: Memorialization of granted use variance for light industrial operations at 2099 Main Road
• ZB25-22: Memorialization of granted variance for lot size and home addition at 3200 Euclid Street
• ZB25-21: Memorialization of denied variance for a two-story dwelling at 124 Idle Lake Road
• ZB25-24: Memorialization of granted variance for a single-family dwelling at 451 Buttercup Street

Historical Advisory Committee

The Historical Advisory Committee decided to use Bettsy Ross flags at the June 6 memorial and to ask Pastor Lawrence Hickman for the opening prayer and a VFW or military chaplain for the closing prayer. Members agreed to prepare a draft program for distribution and to have Colin McLain write a brief speech for the mayor. Additional actions were assigned, including live cannon firing and outreach to the Delsea National Honor Society.

• Use Bettsy Ross flags at the memorial (decided)
• Ask Pastor Lawrence Hickman for opening prayer (decided)
• Ask a VFW or military chaplain for closing prayer (decided)
• Prepare a draft program for distribution (decided)
• Colin McLain to prepare a brief speech for the mayor (agreed)
• Martin to arrange live cannon firing for the event (agreed)
• Martin to contact Delsea National Honor Society for student participation (agreed)
• Martin to invite Congressman VanDrew to attend (agreed)

Environmental Commission

The Franklin Township Environmental Commission will hold a regular meeting to review zoning and planning board applications, address old business, and handle mail and correspondence. The agenda lists nine items but provides no details for any of them.

• Zoning And Planning Board Applications
• Old Business
• Mail/Correspondence
• Guests
• Adjourn

The commission reappointed Even Duerr as Chair and Candace Delaney as Secretary, each by unanimous vote. New members Alex Baldosaro, Ralph Travaglione, and Jim Michaelson were appointed for 2026. The meeting was adjourned unanimously after a motion by Mr. E. Duerr.

• Reappointed Even Duerr as Chair (unanimous)
• Reappointed Candace Delaney as Secretary (unanimous)
• Appointed Alex Baldosaro as new member (unanimous)
• Appointed Ralph Travaglione as new member (unanimous)
• Appointed Jim Michaelson as new member (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board accepted the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports, approved the 2026 budget, and approved opening and closing of both public portions and adjournment. All motions carried unanimously except the Secretary’s report, which passed 8‑0‑1. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Opened First Public Portion at 7:00 pm (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion at 7:00 pm (unanimous)
• Accepted Secretary’s report (8 in favor, 1 abstained)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Budget (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion at 8:17 pm (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion at 8:17 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:17 pm (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hear presentations and public comments on three minor subdivision applications (PB25-05, PB25-06, PB25-07) and a preliminary and final major site plan (SP25-04) for a 200,200‑square‑foot cold‑storage facility. No resolutions are scheduled for this meeting. Standard opening items such as the pledge of allegiance and public‑meeting statements are included.

• PB25-05 – Minor subdivision of 20.148‑acre property at 216 Delsea Drive, creating a 1.7‑acre duplex parcel and an ~18.4‑acre farmland parcel; variances requested for lot area, lot width, and front yard setback.
• PB25-06 – Minor subdivision of Lots 44 & 45 at 248 and 330 Fergeson Avenue, creating three parcels, a shared driveway easement on Lot 45, and a variance for a farmland buffer.
• PB25-07 – Minor subdivision of 19.8‑acre property on Catawba Avenue, dividing it into two ~9.92‑acre farmland parcels; no variances requested.
• SP25-04 – Preliminary and final major site plan for 1520 Harding Highway, proposing a 200,200 SF cold‑storage facility with parking; waivers sought for sidewalks, fencing, and parking‑lot landscaping.

The Franklin Planning Board voted to approve the PB25-05, PB25-06, and PB25-07 minor subdivision proposals. Each motion passed with a majority and no opposition, and all approvals are subject to conditions. One board member recused from the PB25-05 vote.

• Approved PB25-05 (James Castelli) – 6 votes in favor, 0 opposed, 1 recused (subject to conditions)
• Approved PB25-06 (Amber Degraff Irrevocable Trust) – 7 votes in favor, 0 opposed (subject to conditions)
• Approved PB25-07 (941 Garrison LLC) – 7 votes in favor, 0 opposed (subject to conditions)

Senior Citizen Advisory Committee

The Senior Citizen Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the 01/14/26 meeting, with the motion passed by Sykora and seconded by Sheldon. A motion to adjourn was made by Simpkins, seconded by Sheldon, and the meeting was then adjourned. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes from 01/14/26 (motion by Sykora, seconded by Sheldon)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Simpkins, seconded by Sheldon)

Township Committee

The Township Committee will hold a public hearing on an ordinance establishing salaries for municipal employees and officials. The body also plans to award paving contracts for Williamstown Road and approve various administrative resolutions.

• Public hearing on ordinance setting municipal salaries
• Awarding contract to Arawak Paving Co for Williamstown Road resurfacing
• Awarding contract to South State Inc for Williamstown Road resurfacing
• Appointing SLEO II Konnor Reilly to Police Department
• Approving 2026 Annual Licenses

The Franklin Township Committee approved O-1-26, establishing salaries and wages for municipal officials and employees. It also approved several resolutions authorizing licenses, insurance contracts, escrow refunds, and engineering and paving contracts for Williamstown Road resurfacing. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting concluded with a closed session and adjournment.

• Adopted O-1-26 establishing salaries and wages of municipal officials and employees (unanimous)
• Approved R-41-26 granting township license (unanimous)
• Approved R-42-26 appointing Chase Farabella as Building Inspection Subcode Official (unanimous)
• Approved R-43-26 authorizing mayor to sign Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund Safety Contract (unanimous)
• Approved R-44-26 authorizing refund of Developers Escrow Account (unanimous)
• Approved R-46-26 extension of contract for CME Engineering to complete certain projects (unanimous)
• Approved R-47-26 award contract to Arawak Paving Co Inc for FY 2023 Williamstown Road Resurfacing Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved R-48-26 award contract to South State Inc for FY 2024 Williamstown Road Resurfacing Phase 1 (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission approved a $10,000 fireworks display for this year’s Community Day. The monster truck, a helicopter, and a car show with the Corvette Club were also booked, with Ron VanOstenbridge coordinating the car show. The annual Easter Egg Hunt was scheduled for March 28 at the Community Center, with a backup location and road closure plan. No votes were recorded.

• Approved $10,000 fireworks display for Community Day
• Booked monster truck for Community Day
• Booked helicopter for Community Day
• Arranged car show featuring Corvette Club; Ron VanOstenbridge to coordinate
• Scheduled Easter Egg Hunt for March 28, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Community Center
• Planned backup venue (Franklin Skating Center) and Coles Mill Road closure for Egg Hunt

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board will consider multiple variance requests for residential additions and new constructions. The board will also review a request for light industrial operations at 2099 Main Road.

• ZB25-19: Use variance for light industrial operations at 2099 Main Road
• ZB25-21: Variances for lot frontage, area, and setbacks for a new home at 124 Idle Lake Road
• ZB25-24: Variances for lot frontage and area for a new home at 451 Buttercup Street
• ZB25-22: Lot size variance and minor site plan for additions at 3200 Euclid Street
• ZB25-20: C variance for a house addition at 3043 Dutch Mill Road

The board granted three separate motions unanimously. It approved a three‑year extension of approvals for the Noria Chaberton project (ZB23-04-1). It approved a use variance, lot‑coverage and front‑yard‑setback variances, and a site‑plan waiver for MAT Real Estate LLC at 2099 Main Road (ZB25-19). It also approved a C‑variance and minor site‑plan for 3200 Euclid Street (ZB25-22). All motions received a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved three‑year extension of approvals for ZB23-04-1 (7-0)
• Approved use variance, lot‑coverage and front‑yard‑setback variances and site‑plan waiver for 2099 Main Road (ZB25-19) (7-0)
• Approved C‑variance and minor site‑plan for 3200 Euclid Street (ZB25-22) (7-0)

Historical Advisory Committee

The committee reviewed several upcoming activities, including a July 5 event at Fort Billingsport, a June 6 Revolutionary War veterans ceremony at Porchtown Church, and possible displays of historic license plates and flags. Members offered to research descendants, contact the Army for colors, and locate additional veterans' graves, but no actions were formally approved or denied.

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee will consider and vote on Resolution R‑39‑26, which appoints a special counsel to handle affordable‑housing matters and litigation related to the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH). The agenda also includes standard procedural steps to open the public portion for resolutions and a second public portion for comments. No other agenda items are listed.

• Resolution R‑39‑26 – appoint special counsel for affordable housing and COAH litigation

The Township Committee met on January 28, 2026 for a special meeting. Members approved motions to open and close the first and second public portions and to adjourn, each with unanimous support. No substantive resolutions, contracts, or policy decisions were recorded.

• Motion to open first public portion approved unanimously
• Motion to close first public portion approved unanimously
• Motion to open second public portion approved unanimously
• Motion to close second public portion approved unanimously
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Library Board of Trustees

The trustees elected new officers, appointing D. Emmons as President and C. Rupp as Vice President, among others. They approved Douglas S. Zucker as the library's new attorney. The board unanimously adopted resolution 26-01 to use the 2025 surplus for capital projects and also approved a wage‑increase resolution for staff. All actions were recorded with the indicated vote counts.

• Elected D. Emmons as President (unanimous)
• Elected C. Rupp as Vice President (unanimous)
• Elected K. Shover as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Elected S. Keen as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved Douglas S. Zucker as new library attorney (unanimous roll call)
• Approved resolution 26-01 to allocate 2025 surplus to capital expenditures (unanimous roll call)
• Approved resolution 26-02 to change claimant signature forms (unanimous roll call)
• Approved resolution 26-03 for 2026 staff wage increases (unanimous roll call)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will consider board officer nominations and several administrative motions, including approval of the official depository, the 2026 meeting calendar, and newspaper advertisements. The board will also hear a public presentation on application PB25‑05, which seeks to subdivide a 20.148‑acre parcel at 216 Delsea Drive into two parcels—a 1.7‑acre lot with an existing duplex and an 18.4‑acre farmland parcel—requiring variances for lot area, lot width, and front‑yard setback. No resolutions or closed‑session items are on the agenda.

• Board nominations for Chairman, Solicitor, Vice Chairman, Board Secretary, Engineer and Planner Services
• Motion to approve the official depository
• Motion to approve the 2026 meeting calendar dates
• Motion to approve official newspapers for 2026 advertisements
• Subdivision application PB25‑05 for 216 Delsea Drive, requesting variances for lot area, lot width, and front‑yard setback

The board appointed Mr. Petsch as Planning Board Chairman unanimously. It also approved Mr. Travaglione as Vice Chairman, Christina Mulford as Secretary, and Bryson & Yates Consulting Engineers, LLC as Engineer, all unanimously. The board approved Dasti & Staiger Attorney at Law as the solicitor by an 8‑1 vote and confirmed Newfield National Bank as the official depository, the 2026 calendar dates, and South Jersey Times and the Sentinel as official newspapers, each unanimously.

• Appointed Mr. Petsch as Planning Board Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Mr. Travaglione as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Christina Mulford as Board Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved Bryson & Yates Consulting Engineers, LLC as Engineer (unanimous)
• Approved Dasti & Staiger Attorney at Law as Solicitor (8-1)
• Approved Newfield National Bank as Official Depository (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 calendar meeting dates (unanimous)
• Approved South Jersey Times and the Sentinel as official newspapers (unanimous)

Communications Commission

The agenda PDF for the Franklin Township Communications Commission meeting on Jan 14 2026 could not be retrieved. No agenda items, motions, or discussions are listed in the available record.

The commission approved the December minutes, elected Bill as Chairman and Sara as Co‑Chair, and adjourned the meeting. All three motions were made by Bill and seconded by Sara; the minutes do not record vote totals or outcomes. The board also discussed veteran advisory meetings, website notices, and calendar placement on the township web page.

• Motion to approve December minutes (seconded by Sara) – outcome not recorded
• Motion to elect Bill as Chairman (seconded by Sara) – outcome not recorded
• Motion to elect Sara as Co‑Chair (seconded by Sara) – outcome not recorded
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (seconded by Sara) – outcome not recorded

Township Committee

The Township Committee is meeting to introduce an ordinance establishing salaries for municipal officials and employees. The body is also voting on several appointments, service contracts, and road improvement extensions.

• O-1-26: Ordinance establishing salaries and wages of municipal officials and employees
• R-33-26: Services contract with Barber Consulting Services
• R-38-26: Award extension request for Williamstown Road Improvements to the NJDOT
• R-36-26: Appointment of Cole McNellis as full time SLEO II Police Officer
• R-32-26: Appointment of Conflict/Back Up Prosecutor for Joint Municipal Court

The Township Committee approved several unanimous motions, including authorizing the Mayor to sign a service contract with Barbers Consulting Services. They also approved the Tax Collector’s disbursement for Veteran Block 4114 Lot 3, appointed a full‑time SLEO II with the Police Department, and authorized an award‑extension request for the Williamstown Road improvements to the NJDOT. Additionally, the Committee authorized a closed session on January 13, 2026 to address COAH litigation and set a public hearing for February 10, 2026 on establishing salaries and wages for municipal officials.

• Approved Mayor’s authority to sign service contract with Barbers Consulting Services (unanimous)
• Approved Tax Collector’s approval of total disbursement for Veteran Block 4114 Lot 3 (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of full‑time SLEO II to the Franklin Township Police Department (unanimous)
• Authorized Administrator and Clerk to submit award extension request for Williamstown Road improvements to NJDOT (unanimous)
• Authorized closed session on Jan 13, 2026 to discuss COAH litigation (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing on Feb 10, 2026 to establish salaries and wages of municipal officials (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of conflict/back‑up prosecutor for the Township of Franklin (unanimous)
• Approved refund of developers’ escrow (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee elected Tom Harrell as chairman and Ralph Travaglione as secretary for 2026. The minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting were approved. Ken Atkinson’s contract was extended through the end of 2026. No other formal actions were taken.

• Tom Harrell elected Chairman for 2026
• Ralph Travaglione elected Secretary for 2026
• Approved minutes of November 10, 2025 meeting
• Extended Ken Atkinson’s contract to year‑end 2026

Recreation Commission

The commission reviewed its schedule of upcoming programs, including the Egg Hunt on March 28, 2026, the Al Batten Golf Tournament in late April, and Community Day activities. Members noted interest from volunteers and discussed venue details, but no formal actions or votes were recorded.

Zoning Board

The Franklin Zoning Board will hold presentations for two use variance requests. The board will also conduct organizational business, including nominations for board leadership and professional services for 2026.

• ZB25-11: Use Variance for a dog kennel at 1796 Main Road (Block 7101, Lots 67)
• ZB25-06: Use Variance and Site Plan approval for a Copart, Inc. auto auction storage yard at Delsea Drive and Shea Lane (Block 2102, Lot 13)
• Nominations for Chairman, Vice Chairman, Solicitor, Board Secretary, and Engineer/Planner services
• Approval of 2026 calendar meeting dates
• Approval of official newspapers for 2026 advertising

The board elected new officers and approved administrative items such as the official depository, calendar dates and newspapers. It then approved ZB25‑11, granting a conditional use and multiple‑use variance for a 12‑kennel dog facility at 1796 Main Road with a 7‑0 vote.

• Appointed Mr. Gravenor as Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Mr. Iglesias as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Law Office of B. Michael Borelli as Solicitor (unanimous)
• Appointed Christina Mulford as Board Secretary (unanimous)
• Appointed Schaeffer Nassar Scheidegg Consulting Engineers, LLC as Engineer/Planner (unanimous)
• Approved Newfield National Bank as Official Depository for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Sentinel and South Jersey Times as official newspapers for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved ZB25-11 dog kennel conditional use and multiple‑use variance at 1796 Main Road (7‑0)

Historical Advisory Committee

The committee reviewed recent visitor numbers at the History Center and Franklinville Railroad Station, shared historical anecdotes, and considered ideas for the township's 250th anniversary. Members suggested posting historical articles on the township website and locating graves of Revolutionary soldiers. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Township Committee

The Township Committee will certify the November 4, 2025 election results and swear in new committee members, the Mayor, and the Deputy Mayor. The body will also vote on 31 resolutions to appoint administrative positions, professional services, and set the 2026 operating calendar.

• Swearing in of Jonathan Keen and Michael Marsh to three-year committee terms
• Appointment of municipal roles including Solicitor, Engineer, Auditor, and Planner
• Reappointment of John J. Armano Jr, Esq. as Municipal Court Judge
• Approval of temporary budget appropriations
• Authorization to cancel tax overpayments or delinquent amounts less than $10.00

The committee swore in newly elected members Jonathan Keen and Michael Marsh and elected Mayor John Bruno and Deputy Mayor Michael Marsh. It confirmed a series of appointments for the year, including a solicitor, engineer, accountants, and other officials. The committee also adopted a cash‑management plan, authorized an electronic tax‑lien sale, and approved the temporary budget appropriations for 2026. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Swore in Jonathan Keen and Michael Marsh to three‑year terms (unanimous)
• Elected John Bruno as Mayor and Michael Marsh as Deputy Mayor (unanimous)
• Appointed Jacqueline Vigilante as Solicitor for 2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed Bryson & Yates as Township Engineer for 2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed Bowman and Company as Township Accountants/Auditors for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved temporary budget appropriations for 2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized the Tax Collector and CFO to conduct an electronic tax‑lien sale (unanimous)
• Adopted a cash‑management plan for the township (unanimous)