Franklin public meetings in 2025

Township Committee

The Township Committee will consider several resolutions regarding tax refunds and budget adjustments. The body is also deciding on a full-time police officer appointment and the approval of 2026 licenses.

• R-180-25: Transfer of funds between specific accounts in the 2025 Budget
• R-181-25: Appointment of Konnor Reilly as full-time SLEO II Class 2 for the Police Department
• R-179-25 and R-182-25: Tax refunds for taxes paid in error and overpayments
• Approval of 2026 Licenses
• R-183-25: Designation of locations for public notice

The committee approved routine items including correspondence, the previous meeting minutes, bill lists and 2026 licenses, all by unanimous vote. It also approved four resolutions: authorizing tax refunds for errors (R-179-25), permitting fund transfers in the 2025 budget (R-180-25), appointing Konnor Reilly as a full‑time Special Law Enforcement Officer (R-181-25), and authorizing refunds of tax overpayments (R-182-25). All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved correspondence and reports (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved bill lists (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 licenses (unanimous)
• Approved R-179-25 tax refund authorization (unanimous)
• Approved R-180-25 fund transfer authority (unanimous)
• Approved R-181-25 appointment of Special Law Enforcement Officer (unanimous)
• Approved R-182-25 tax overpayment refund authorization (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees held its regular meeting, covering reports, agenda items, and public portions. No approvals, denials, or votes were recorded in the minutes. The next meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2026.

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board is meeting to address a resolution for a development project by Plains Farm, LLC. The board will consider the construction of office contractor storage units and associated parking.

• Resolution SP25-01: Plains Farm, LLC proposal for eight flex space office contractor storage units in four buildings at Block 1306, Lot 34 Delsea Drive
• Variances requested for agricultural buffers and lack of loading space

The Board approved resolution SP25‑01 for Plains Farm, LLC to construct eight flex‑space office and contractor storage units, granting required variances for loading space and agricultural buffers, subject to conditions. The motion passed with six votes in favor and one opposed.

• Approved Plains Farm flex‑space project with variances (6‑1)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Communications Commission

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The commission decided to let the weather segment on Channel 9 expire, which will save about $1,500 each year. Members agreed to add a link to Public Notices under the Important Documents section of the township website. The meeting was formally adjourned at 7:54 PM.

• Discontinue weather broadcast on Channel 9, saving about $1,500 annually (consensus)
• Add link to Public Notices under Important Documents on the website (Jonathon agreed)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:54 PM (motion by Sara, seconded by Bill)

Township Committee

The Township Committee will hold public hearings on seven ordinances to revise residential, accessory use, and zoning standards based on the 2024 Master Plan Reexamination Report. The body will also consider police appointments, tax exemptions for disabled veterans, and a new telephone system.

• Public hearings on ordinances O-12-2025 through O-18-25 regarding undersized lots, solar energy systems, fences, and storage structures
• Resolution R-178-25 to authorize Monmouth Telecom to replace the Township telephone equipment
• Resolution R-172-25 to approve the 2026 salary for Franklin Township Fire Commissioner District No. 2
• Police appointments for Michael Guzman (Sergeant), Michael Neher (Corporal), and Brett Holdcraft (Officer 1st Class)
• Tax exemptions for totally disabled veterans (Resolutions R-174-25 through R-177-25)

The Township Committee approved resolutions recognizing the retirement of K‑9 Officer Rozo and appointed three new police officers: Michael Guzman as Sergeant, Michael Neher as Corporal, and Brett Holdcraft as a Police Officer (SLEO II). The Committee also adopted three amendments to Chapter 253 of the township code revising accessory‑use standards and permitted uses in the Business District, all by unanimous vote. Additionally, the Committee authorized a tax exemption for a totally disabled veteran and approved Monmouth Telecom to replace the township telephone equipment.

• Approved resolution R‑168‑25 recognizing retirement of K‑9 Officer Rozo
• Approved appointment of Michael Guzman as Sergeant (R‑169‑25)
• Approved appointment of Michael Neher as Corporal (R‑170‑25)
• Approved appointment of Brett Holdcraft as Police Officer (SLEO II) (R‑171‑25)
• Adopted O‑14‑25 amendment to Chapter 253 revising accessory‑use standards – Unanimous
• Adopted O‑15‑25 amendment to Chapter 253 revising permitted accessory uses in Business District – Unanimous
• Authorized Tax Collector to grant tax exemption for a totally disabled veteran (R‑174‑25)
• Authorized Monmouth Telecom to replace township telephone equipment (R‑178‑25)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board will memorialize resolutions approving two variance requests. One request involves a single-family home on Little Mill Road with a lot frontage issue, and the other involves a pole barn and addition on Bentwood Drive with multiple non-conforming dimensions.

• ZB25-17: Variance for lot frontage at 919 Little Mill Road
• ZB25-18: Variances for lot frontage, area, setbacks, and height at 117 Bentwood Drive
• ZB25-17: Approved, subject to conditions
• ZB25-18: Approved, subject to conditions
• Meeting set for December 2, 2025 at 7:00 PM

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Avis Builders LLC to increase lot frontage for a single‑family house at 919 Little Mill Road. The board also approved variances for James Tenerelli Jr. and Amber VanDongen‑Tenerelli to increase lot frontage, lot area, front‑yard setback, and pole‑barn height for a project at 117 Bentwood Drive. Both approvals were adopted unanimously.

• Approved variance for Avis Builders LLC – lot frontage (102.62 ft) (unanimous)
• Approved variances for James Tenerelli Jr & Amber VanDongen‑Tenerelli – lot frontage, lot area, front‑yard setback, pole‑barn height (unanimous)
• Approved minutes and closed‑session minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Franklin Township Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting, reviewing the Secretary’s report of October 15, 2025 minutes, the Treasurer’s report, Committee and Director reports, and addressing old and new business. The meeting includes two public portions and a closed session, and the next meeting is set for December 17, 2025.

• Secretary’s Report – minutes from October 15, 2025
• Treasurer’s Report
• Committee Report
• Director’s Report – statistics included
• Old Business and New Business items

The trustees accepted the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports. They approved an after‑hours teen laser‑tag event for Dec. 5 and adopted the 2026 Holiday Calendar with a 5‑3 vote. The board also approved the proposed 2026 Board of Trustees meeting dates.

• Accepted Secretary’s report (7 in favor, 1 abstained)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved teen laser‑tag program (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Holiday Calendar (5 in favor, 3 opposed)
• Approved 2026 Board of Trustees meeting dates (unanimous)
• Opened and closed First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Opened and closed Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Opened and closed Closed Session (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will consider a development application from Plains Farm, LLC to build eight flex‑space office and contractor storage units on Delsea Drive, with required variances for loading and agricultural buffers. The board will also hear a request from Anne Dinshah for an extension to submit subdivision deed approvals for lots on Dinshah Drive. Additionally, the board will review Ordinance R-156-25 that was introduced at the October 14, 2025 Township Committee meeting.

• SP25-01 Plains Farm, LLC – eight flex‑space office/contractor storage units on Block 1306, Lot 34 Delsea Drive, Franklinville; variances needed for loading space and agricultural buffers.
• PB2411-1 – Anne Dinshah – request for extension to submit subdivision deed approvals for Block 5401, Lots 18 & 20, 113 Dinshah Drive, Malaga.
• Review of Ordinance R-156-25 introduced at the October 14, 2025 Township Committee meeting.

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee will vote on a series of resolutions authorizing purchases of trucks, a metal building, and related equipment under various Sourcewell contracts. It will also consider resolutions on fire commissioner salary, farmland preservation funding, a title services payment, a tax exemption for a disabled veteran, and authorizing the mayor to sign treatment‑works approval for Gumina Development. A closed executive session is scheduled for contract negotiations.

• Authorize purchase of one 2025 CV515 SFA 4x4 truck with dump body and plow (Allegiance Trucks, 525 W. Linden Ave, Linden, NJ)
• Authorize purchase of two 2026 Peterbilt Model 520 trucks with Heil Durapack upfit (Mid‑Atlantic Waste Systems, 10641 Cordova Road, Easton, MD)
• Authorize purchase of two 2026 Ford F‑450 trucks with dump body and plow/spreader (Ciocca Ford, 215 US Highway 202, Flemington, NJ)
• Authorize purchase of two 2026 Ford Super Duty F‑250 trucks with plow and spreader (National Auto Fleet Group, 490 Auto Center Drive, Watonsville, CA)
• Authorize purchase of a 60‑ft by 40‑ft metal‑clad enclosed beam building (Clearspan, 703 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT)

The Franklin Township Committee unanimously approved the meeting’s correspondence, the October 14 minutes, bill lists, and raffle approvals. It also approved both public portions of the meeting, closed and reopened the session, and then adjourned. No other resolutions had recorded vote outcomes in the minutes.

• Approved correspondence and reports (unanimous)
• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bill lists (unanimous)
• Approved raffle approvals (unanimous)
• Approved first public portion for resolutions (unanimous)
• Approved second public portion for comments (unanimous)
• Closed and reopened public meeting portions (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting. Members voted on a resolution to support the township's municipal farmland preservation efforts as outlined in the 2026 Municipal PIG Compliance Statement, though the outcome was not recorded. Ken Travaglione's contract was extended through the end of 2026.

• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Voted on resolution to support municipal farmland preservation (outcome not specified)
• Extended Ken Travaglione's contract to year‑end 2026

Recreation Commission

The commission reported that alternates Natalie Szwed and Scott Renne resigned, leaving three alternate seats and two regular member seats vacant for next year. Members discussed and assigned responsibilities for upcoming holiday events, including Christmas at the Center on Dec. 6 and the Senior Citizens Christmas Party on Dec. 7. Additional activities for 2026, such as an egg hunt and a golf tournament, were also outlined. No formal motions or votes were recorded.

Zoning Board

The Franklin Zoning Board will consider several variance requests and a minor subdivision at this meeting. Items include front‑yard and lot‑frontage variances for new residential structures, a use variance for an in‑law apartment, and approval of an accessory pool house and deck. All listed items are slated for decision or memorialization during the session.

• ZB25-17 – Avis Builders, LLC requests a variance for lot frontage (minimum 150 ft) to build a single‑family house at 919 Little Mill Road.
• ZB25-18 – James Tenerelli Jr & Amber VanDongen‑Tenerelli request variances for lot frontage, lot area, front‑yard setback, and pole‑barn height for a pole barn and addition at 117 Bentwood Drive.
• ZB25-03 – Approval of a 16’ × 56’ pool house and 30’ × 12’ deck with setback conditions at 156 Stephanie Court.
• ZB25-10 – Use variance to permit a second one‑bedroom mother‑in‑law apartment at 931 Reed Avenue, with a deed restriction to family use.
• ZB25-16 – Minor subdivision and use variances to redivide lots at 130 Morris Avenue and 2766 Harding Highway, Newfield, transferring 16,250 sf and adjusting lot size and frontage requirements.

The board approved a variance for 919 Little Mill Road (ZB25-17) with a 4‑0 vote. It also approved all requested variances for 117 Bentwood Drive (ZB25-18) with a 4‑0 vote. Additionally, three separate resolutions (ZB25-03, ZB25-10, ZB25-16) were approved, and the board entered and exited a closed session before adjourning.

• Approved variance for 919 Little Mill Road (ZB25-17) – 4 votes in favor, 0 opposed
• Approved all variances for 117 Bentwood Drive (ZB25-18) – 4 votes in favor, 0 opposed
• Approved accessory structure at 156 Stephanie Court (ZB25-03) – unanimous approval
• Approved use variance for 931 Reed Avenue (ZB25-10) – unanimous approval
• Approved minor subdivision and use variances for 130 Morris Avenue & 2766 Harding Highway (ZB25-16) – unanimous approval
• Entered closed session at 7:27 PM – unanimous approval
• Exited closed session at 7:33 PM – unanimous approval
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous approval

Historical Advisory Committee

The Historical Advisory Committee met on November 3, 2025 and discussed details for the Christmas at the Center event scheduled for December 6, including timing, volunteer arrival, and display items. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded. The meeting concluded with no substantive decisions made.

Planning Board

The Franklin Township Planning Board meeting scheduled for October 21, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered. The next meeting is set for November 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM.

Library Board of Trustees

The Board accepted the Secretary’s report (6 in favor, 3 abstained) and the Treasurer’s report unanimously. It approved a policy change allowing any library card holder to borrow items from the Library of Things and to receive museum passes, with 8 votes in favor and 1 opposed. All procedural motions to open and close the public portions and to adjourn were carried unanimously.

• Accepted Secretary’s report (6 in favor, 3 abstained)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved Library of Things and museum pass policy (8‑1)
• Opened First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Committee

The Township Committee will vote on several resolutions, including a large bond issuance for capital projects and the purchase of a senior bus. The body will also hold a public hearing on vacating a portion of Washington Avenue and introduce multiple zoning amendments based on the 2024 Master Plan.

• Issuance of bonds for capital purchases and projects totaling $2,782,000.00
• Public hearing on Ordinance 11-2025 to vacate a portion of Washington Avenue
• Purchase of a 2025 Ford E-450 Eldorado Advantage (Senior) Bus
• Introduction of seven ordinances to revise zoning standards for undersized lots, fences, and solar energy
• Approval of the collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME local 3574

The Franklin Township Committee approved a $2,782,000 bond issuance for capital projects and authorized several contracts, including appraisal services for a farmland preservation project and a conflict‑counsel agreement. It also adopted Ordinance O‑11‑25 to vacate public rights on Washington Avenue and approved updates to the employee handbook and personnel manual. Additional actions included authorizing tax refunds, extending road‑project timelines, and approving the purchase of a senior‑transport bus.

• Approved R‑137‑25: Issuance of bonds totaling $2,782,000.00 (unanimous)
• Approved R‑135‑25: Contract for appraisal services for Farmland Preservation Project Block 2402, Lots 17 & 18
• Approved R‑134‑25: Contract for Matthew Madden, Esq. as Conflict Counsel
• Adopted O‑11‑25 Ordinance vacating public rights on Washington Avenue
• Approved R‑148‑25: Revision and update of the Township Employee Handbook per MEL‑JIF recommendations (effective Nov 1 2025)
• Approved R‑146‑25: Tax Collector and CFO authorized to issue tax refunds for overpayments (Block 5702, Lot 50.06)
• Approved R‑151‑25: Purchase of a 2025 Ford E‑450 senior bus under the CTIP Grant
• Approved R‑149‑25: Extension request for FY 23 Williamstown Road Project (additional 3 months)

Zoning Board

The Township of Franklin Zoning Board will meet to consider three applications: a pool house and deck, a second mother-in-law apartment, and a lot subdivision. The board will also review a variance request for a house on Strawberry Avenue.

• ZB25-03: Pool house and deck at 156 Stephanie Court
• ZB25-10: Second mother-in-law apartment at 931 Reed Avenue
• ZB25-16: Subdivision of lots on Morris Avenue and Harding Highway
• ZB25-15: Variance for lot frontage at 882 Strawberry Avenue

The Franklin Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three variance requests—ZB25-03, ZB25-10, and ZB25-16—each with a 5‑0 vote. ZB25-03 was approved with conditions to remove a storage container, obtain permits, and complete inspections within six months. ZB25-10 was approved with the requested variances and a deed restriction. ZB25-16 was approved for the variances requested for the two lots. A separate resolution (ZB25-15) for a lot‑frontage variance was also approved unanimously.

• Approved ZB25-03 (pool house accessory structure) with conditions, 5-0
• Approved ZB25-10 (second mother‑in‑law apartment) with deed restriction, 5-0
• Approved ZB25-16 (lot redivision and variances) with requested variances, 5-0
• Approved ZB25-15 (lot‑frontage variance) resolution, unanimous

Historical Advisory Committee

The Historical Advisory Committee announced that next year's Community Day will be held on September 18, 2026. It also set the date for the Christmas at the Center event on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Members volunteered to assist with the Christmas event and were asked to bring display suggestions.

• Set Community Day date for September 18, 2026
• Set Christmas at the Center date for Saturday, December 6, 2025

Library Board of Trustees

The Franklin Township Library Board of Trustees will conduct a standard meeting on September 17, 2025. The agenda includes the required Open Public Meetings Act compliance notice, public portions, and reports from the secretary, treasurer, and director. No specific policy proposals, contracts, or ordinance actions are listed.

• Secretary’s Report – review minutes from August 20, 2025
• Treasurer’s Report – financial update
• Director’s Report – library statistics
• First Public Portion – open public comments
• Second Public Portion – open public comments

The board accepted the Secretary’s report, noting abstentions by B. Doherty and J. Wilson. It unanimously approved the Treasurer’s report with a correction applied to Teen Programs. Both the first and second public portions were opened and closed by unanimous motions, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted Secretary’s report (abstentions: B. Doherty, J. Wilson)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Opened First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Township Planning Board will consider a request to consolidate and re-subdivide a property on Delsea Drive into four lots, which requires a variance due to insufficient lot area for one of the new parcels. No new construction is proposed at this time.

• Resolution PB25-03: Anaisa Investments, Inc. request to re-subdivide 7 lots into 4 on Delsea Drive and Paul Street
• Variance required for insufficient lot area for one of the proposed new lots
• No new construction proposed at this time

The board approved Resolution PB25-03, allowing consolidation and re‑subdivision of seven lots into four on Block 3908, Delsea Drive & Paul Street, subject to conditions including a variance for lot area. The motion passed with five votes in favor and none opposed. The board also unanimously approved the August 19, 2025 minutes (with Mr. Clark abstaining) and then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved Resolution PB25-03 for subdivision of Block 3908 (5-0)
• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, Mr. Clark abstained)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee will consider several resolutions, including a street‑vacation ordinance for a portion of Washington Avenue and a resolution setting the bid threshold for non‑fair and open contracts at $53,000. Other items include renewing a junkyard license, granting tax‑exemptions to two totally disabled veterans, and extending contracts with Vigilante Law Firm and Madden & Madden. A public hearing on the Washington Avenue ordinance is scheduled for October 14, 2025.

• R-130-25: Authorize contracts up to the bid threshold of $53,000
• Ordinance O-11-2025: Vacate public rights on a portion of Washington Avenue
• R-127-25: Grant junkyard license renewal within the township
• R-128-25 and R-129-25: Tax‑exemption for two totally disabled veterans
• R-133-25: Extend and increase authorized amount for Vigilante Law Firm for 2025

The Franklin Township Committee unanimously approved routine items such as correspondence, minutes, and the bill list. It granted a Mobile Food Handling License to Daily Grace Cafe and approved a raffle for Our Lady of Grace – Green & Gold. The committee also adopted several resolutions: authorizing the tax collector to grant tax exemptions to totally disabled veterans, permitting non‑competitive contracts up to $53,000, certifying the annual audit, and allowing contracts with approved state vendors under NJSA 40A:11‑12a.

• Approved correspondence and reports (unanimous)
• Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bill list (unanimous)
• Approved Mobile Food Handling License for Daily Grace Cafe (unanimous)
• Approved raffles for Our Lady of Grace – Green & Gold (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-128-25 authorizing tax exemption for a totally disabled veteran (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-130-25 permitting contracts up to $53,000 without competitive bidding (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R-132-25 authorizing contracts with approved state vendors per NJSA 40A:11‑12a (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting. The committee extended Ken Atkinson’s contract through the end of 2026. They noted that the PIG compliance report is due Dec 15, 2025 and set the next meeting for Nov 10, 2025.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes
• Extended Ken Atkinson’s contract to year‑end 2026
• Scheduled next meeting for Nov 10, 2025

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved a lot‑frontage variance for Coviello (ZB25‑15) with an 8‑0 vote, granted a variance for Greg Avis (ZB25‑09) subject to conditions, and approved a use variance and site‑plan for JC Company (ZB25‑13) with conditions. It denied the lot‑frontage variance request for ARCR Properties (ZB25‑08). All motions were adopted unanimously or with recorded votes.

• Approved lot‑frontage variance for 882 Strawberry Ave (ZB25‑15) – 8 in favor, 0 opposed
• Denied lot‑frontage variance for Main Road parcel (ZB25‑08) – decision recorded as denied
• Granted variance for 139 & 141 Taylor Rd (ZB25‑09) – unanimous approval, 2 abstentions
• Granted use variance and major site‑plan for 870 Harding Hwy (ZB25‑13) – approved with conditions

Library Board of Trustees

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will review the Secretary's report on July 16 minutes and receive reports from the Treasurer and Director.

• Review of July 16, 2025 minutes

The trustees approved the acquisition of a display case for the library. They accepted the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports, and opened and closed both public and closed sessions unanimously. The personnel committee minutes were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved display case purchase (no vote recorded)
• Accepted Secretary’s report (4 in favor, 3 abstained)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Opened First Public Portion at 7:00 pm (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion at 7:00 pm (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion at 7:37 pm (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion at 7:38 pm (unanimous)
• Approved personnel committee minutes (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission reviewed logistics for the upcoming Community Day, including field lining, permits for food vendors, a breakfast meeting, and performance schedules. Members noted pending items such as a VFW parking donation form, a Chick‑fil‑A participation confirmation, and a proclamation honoring the VFW. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Planning Board

The board voted 6‑0 to approve application PB25-03 for consolidating seven lots into four, subject to conditions. The applicant must resubmit revised plans removing the proposed 30‑ft stormwater easement dedication and determine drainage easement ownership and responsibility. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved PB25-03 subdivision plan with conditions (6-0)
• Required removal of 30‑ft stormwater easement dedication
• Required determination of drainage easement ownership and responsibility
• Asked applicant to resubmit revised plans per CME recommendations
• Open public session motion passed unanimously
• Close public session motion passed unanimously
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Communications Commission

Sara moved to approve the meeting minutes and Bill seconded the motion. The commission agreed to publish the survey that was discussed. Sara will create a new Public Notices page and adjust website buttons, while Bill will send a letter to Jonathon, email Kristine, and meet the librarian on August 14.

• Motion to approve minutes made and seconded
• Agreed to publish the survey
• Sara will create a Public Notices page on the website
• Plan to move the School button lower and add a Legal Notices button
• Bill will send a letter to Jonathon regarding the first‑page notice
• Bill will email Kristine about public notice for Zoning and Planning Board
• Bill will meet the librarian on August 14 to discuss screens
• Motion to adjourn made and seconded

Township Committee

The Township Committee unanimously adopted Ordinance O‑10‑25, appropriating $2,928,500 and authorizing $2,782,075 in bonds for various capital projects. It also adopted Ordinances O‑5‑25, O‑7‑25 and O‑9‑25 to amend code chapters in line with the 2024 Master Plan. Additional resolutions authorized the mayor to sign a grant agreement, renewed liquor licenses, and approved the purchase of police vehicles.

• Adopted O‑10‑25 Bond Ordinance appropriating $2,928,500 and authorizing $2,782,075 in bonds (unanimous)
• Adopted O‑5‑25 ordinance to amend Chapter 253 for accessory structure standards (unanimous)
• Adopted O‑7‑25 ordinance to amend Chapter XXI for rezoning R‑A to HC/IC designations (unanimous)
• Adopted O‑9‑25 ordinance to amend Chapter 253 for buffering standards (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor to sign grant agreement for development easements (unanimous)
• Granted renewal of liquor licenses within the township (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of four 2025 Ford Police Interceptors and three Chevrolet Malibu sedans (unanimous)
• Authorized two school resource officers for the 2025‑2026 school year (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The board denied a motion to reject the variance request for ARCR Properties (ZB25-08) with a 5‑2 vote, effectively leaving that variance undecided. It then approved the variance for Greg Avis (ZB25-09) by a unanimous 7‑0 vote. The board entered a closed session to discuss a settlement agreement but took no action before exiting. All other public motions were unanimous and procedural.

• Motion to deny variance ZB25-08 denied (5-2)
• Motion to approve variance ZB25-09 passed (7-0)
• Open public comment period motion passed unanimously
• Close public comment period motion passed unanimously
• Board entered closed session at 7:51 PM (motion passed)
• Board exited closed session at 8:30 PM (motion passed)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission decided to schedule three 20‑minute shows for the day’s activities. Members also approved removing an extraneous slash from the flyer’s email address. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Agreed to hold three 20‑minute shows during the day
• Approved removal of trailing slash from flyer email address

Township Committee

The Committee approved the municipal budget (R‑111‑252025) after opening and closing a public hearing, both by unanimous vote. It also approved grant applications and contracts with the NJ Department of Transportation for improvements on Williamstown Road and Dutch Mill Road Phase VII, each unanimously. The O‑10‑25 Bond Ordinance was adopted, authorizing $2,928,500 in appropriations and $2,782,075 in bonds for capital projects. All motions were passed unanimously.

• Open public hearing on municipal budget R‑111‑252025 – approved unanimously
• Close public hearing on municipal budget R‑111‑252025 – approved unanimously
• Adopt municipal budget R‑111‑252025 – approved unanimously
• Approve grant application and contract with NJDOT for Williamstown Road improvements – approved unanimously
• Approve grant application and contract with NJDOT for Dutch Mill Road Phase VII improvements – approved unanimously
• Adopt O‑10‑25 Bond Ordinance authorizing $2,928,500 appropriations and $2,782,075 bonds – approved unanimously
• Close second public portion – approved unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – approved unanimously

Library Board of Trustees

The trustees approved a series of procedural motions, including opening and closing both public portions, accepting the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports, and adjourning the meeting. No substantive business, such as decisions on security cameras, was resolved.

• Open First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Close First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Accept Secretary’s report (M. Fiorella abstained)
• Accept Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Open Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Close Second Public Portion (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting. The township extended Ken Atkinson’s contract through the end of 2026. No new farm preservation applications were approved at this meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2025.

• Approved minutes from May 12, 2025 meeting
• Extended Ken Atkinson’s contract to year‑end 2026

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee unanimously approved a series of authorizations, including assigning two school resource officers to the township schools for the 2025‑2026 year, completing the Gloucester County CTIP Bus Program, and participating in the USDA Housing Preservation Grant for FY 2025. It also approved hiring two full‑time administrative assistants for the joint municipal court and a $6,000 fund transfer to Monroe Township for shared sports services. Additional resolutions promoted public‑works staff and amended employment agreements.

• Authorized Chief of Police to assign two school resource officers to Franklin Township schools for 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized Township Administrator and CFO to complete the Gloucester County CTIP Bus Program (unanimous)
• Authorized Township Administrator to join the USDA Housing Preservation Grant Program for FY 2025 (unanimous)
• Authorized hiring of Jordyn Simon as full‑time administrative assistant for the joint municipal court (unanimous)
• Authorized hiring of Nicole Bush as full‑time administrative assistant for the joint municipal court (unanimous)
• Authorized transfer of up to $6,000 to Monroe Township Parks and Recreation for shared lacrosse and roller hockey services (unanimous)
• Authorized promotion of 2‑3 public works laborers to driver positions per AFSCME Local 3574 agreement (unanimous)
• Authorized promotion of one public works employee to foreman stipend position (unanimous)

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee met on June 24, 2025, discussed budget questions and other inquiries, and unanimously adopted several procedural motions. The meeting closed the first and second public portions and then adjourned. No substantive approvals, denials, or policy changes were recorded.

• Approved motion to begin the first public portion for resolutions (unanimous)
• Approved motion to close the first public portion (unanimous)
• Approved motion to close the second public portion (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board unanimously approved the 2024 audit, a new information desk pending final placement mapping, and a new glass display case. It also approved the opening and closing of both public portions of the meeting and adjourned the meeting. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2025.

• Approved 2024 audit (unanimous)
• Approved new information desk, contingent on final mapping (unanimous)
• Approved new glass display case (unanimous)
• Opened First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The board approved two development resolutions: a subdivision for Patriot Homes and a site‑plan for Sahara Sand, Inc., each by a 5‑0 vote. It adopted the Housing Plan Element and Fair Share Plan with five votes in favor and two abstentions. The board also recommended Ordinance O‑5‑25 to the Township Committee and voted to table Ordinance O‑7‑25 until a buffer ordinance is adopted.

• Approved subdivision of Patriot Homes property (PB25-01) – 5-0
• Approved site‑plan for Sahara Sand, Inc. (SP25-03) – 5-0
• Adopted Housing Plan Element & Fair Share Plan – 5-0, 2 abstentions
• Recommended Ordinance O-5-25 to Township Committee – 6-0, 1 abstention
• Recommended Ordinance O-7-25 be tabled until buffer ordinance – 6-0, 1 abstention

Township Committee

The committee unanimously adopted the O‑8‑25 ordinance to repeal and replace Chapter 335 on stormwater control. It also adopted O‑4‑25 (depth requirements) and O‑6‑25 (Residential‑Agriculture district amendment). The O‑5‑25 accessory‑structure standards and O‑7‑25 rezoning proposals were tabled and referred to the Planning Board for further review. Andrew Myers was appointed as a lieutenant in the Franklin Township Police Department.

• Adopted O‑8‑25 Stormwater Control ordinance (unanimous)
• Adopted O‑4‑25 ordinance eliminating additional depth requirements (unanimous)
• Adopted O‑6‑25 amendment to Residential‑Agriculture district (unanimous)
• Tabled O‑5‑25 ordinance on accessory‑structure standards (unanimous)
• Tabled O‑7‑25 ordinance on rezoning to Highway and Interchange Commercial (unanimous)
• Referred O‑5‑25 to Planning Board for review (unanimous)
• Referred O‑7‑25 to Planning Board for clarification (unanimous)
• Appointed Andrew Myers as Lieutenant, Franklin Township Police Department (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The board voted 6‑0 to approve the ZB25‑07 conditional use variance allowing a one‑hour morning meeting in the accessory structure at 220 Harris Avenue. The board also granted variances for Citywide Holdings (ZB25‑05) to build two single‑family homes on 1785 Coles Mill Road and for Steven Cox (ZB25‑04) to construct a garage and patio at 2277 N Blue Bell Road. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved conditional use variance ZB25-07 for 220 Harris Avenue (6-0)
• Granted variance ZB25-05 for Citywide Holdings, 1785 Coles Mill Road
• Granted variance ZB25-04 for Steven Cox, 2277 N Blue Bell Road
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historical Advisory Committee

The committee discussed topics for the September 20 Community Day display, noted the upcoming meeting on September 8, and reminded members of the History Center hours and its closure on July 23. No votes, approvals, or other formal actions were recorded.

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board accepted the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports, opened and closed both public portions of the meeting, and adjourned. All motions were carried, with the Secretary’s report vote recorded as 7 in favor and 2 abstentions. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Open First Public Portion at 7:00 pm (unanimous)
• Close First Public Portion at 7:00 pm (unanimous)
• Accept Secretary’s report (7 in favor, 2 abstained)
• Accept Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Open Second Public Portion at 7:44 pm (unanimous)
• Close Second Public Portion at 7:44 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:45 pm (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board approved Resolution PB24-10 to subdivide a 23.7‑acre lot at 1751 Stanton Avenue into four parcels. It also approved Resolution PB25-01 to subdivide 1802 Grant Avenue into two lots with required variances. Finally, the board approved Resolution SP25-03 granting preliminary and major site‑plan approval for Sahara Sand’s resource‑extraction project. Each motion passed with five votes in favor and none opposed.

• Approved Resolution PB24-10 subdivision of 23.7‑acre lot at 1751 Stanton Ave (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution PB25-01 subdivision of 1802 Grant Ave into two lots with variances (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution SP25-03 preliminary and major site‑plan for Sahara Sand mining (5‑0)

Communications Commission

The Communications Commission approved the January minutes after a motion by Sara Thurston and a second by Bill Morris. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion by Sara Thurston, seconded by Bill Morris. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Approved January minutes (motion by Sara Thurston, seconded by Bill Morris)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Sara Thurston, seconded by Bill Morris)

Township Committee

The Committee unanimously adopted two ordinances, O-2-25 and O-3-25, affecting public rights and municipal budget limits. It also approved routine correspondence, the April 8, 2025 minutes, several food and farm‑stand permits, and a $91,000 recreation grant. Additionally, the street name Malaga Lake Drive was changed to Sergeant Gonzalez Park Drive.

• Adopted O-2-25 Releasing, Extinguishing and Vacating rights of the public in a portion of paper streets (unanimous)
• Adopted O-3-25 Model Ordinance to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank (unanimous)
• Approved correspondence and reports (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 8, 2025 (unanimous, Marsh abstained)
• Approved food handling permits for Pegasus Restaurant, The Mill Tavern, and Buon Viaggio (unanimous)
• Approved farm stand permits for Bassett, Wildonger, Shea (unanimous)
• Authorized $91,000 Local Recreation Improvement Grant award (unanimous)
• Authorized change of street name from Malaga Lake Drive to Sergeant Gonzalez Park Drive (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 10, 2025 meeting. The committee confirmed that Ken’s contract for the Municipal Farmland Preservation Program has been extended to the end of 2026. The committee noted the SADC’s new appraisal formula and the increase in the Planning Incentive Grant cost‑share to 80% (Franklin’s share reduced to 10%). No vote tallies were recorded.

• Approved minutes of March 10, 2025 meeting
• Extended Ken’s farmland preservation contract to year end 2026

Historical Advisory Committee

The Historical Advisory Committee shared information about upcoming events, including a library Holocaust survivor program on May 8, the rededication of Malaga Lake Park on May 9, and the VFW Memorial Day Parade on May 26. They also announced a June 19 Zoom presentation by author Ellen Alford for the NJ State Library. No motions were voted on or decisions recorded.

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved a variance for Citywide Holdings to build two single‑family homes at 1785 Coles Mill Road. It also approved variances for Steven Cox’s garage and patio at 2277 N Blue Bell Road. Additionally, the board granted a pole barn permit for Paul Berry Jr. at 1066 Royal Avenue and an addition permit for Vincent and Ashlee Angelus at 862 Salem Avenue. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved variance for Citywide Holdings, 1785 Coles Mill Road (6‑0)
• Approved variances for Steven Cox garage/patio, 2277 N Blue Bell Road (6‑0)
• Granted pole barn permit for Paul Berry Jr., 1066 Royal Avenue (unanimous)
• Granted addition permit for Vincent and Ashlee Angelus, 862 Salem Avenue (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board unanimously accepted the March 19, 2025 minutes and the Treasurer's report. It also unanimously opened and closed both the First and Second public portions of the meeting. The meeting was then adjourned without any additional decisions on new business.

• Accepted March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Opened First Public Portion at 7:01 pm (unanimous)
• Closed First Public Portion at 7:01 pm (unanimous)
• Opened Second Public Portion at 8:00 pm (unanimous)
• Closed Second Public Portion at 8:00 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 pm (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board approved three land‑use resolutions. Resolution PB24-08 to merge two lots and subdivide a 1.58‑acre portion at 2400 Main Road was approved 4‑0. Resolution PB24-11 to reconfigure boundaries of two properties at 113 Dinshah Drive was approved 4‑0. Resolution PB24-10 to subdivide a 23.7‑acre parcel at 1751 Stanton Avenue into four parcels was approved 8‑0.

• Approved Resolution PB24-08 (merge two lots, subdivide 1.58‑acre portion) – 4 votes in favor, 0 opposed
• Approved Resolution PB24-11 (reconfigure boundaries of two properties) – 4 votes in favor, 0 opposed
• Approved Resolution PB24-10 (subdivide 23.7‑acre lot into four parcels) – 8 votes in favor, 0 opposed

Senior Citizen Advisory Committee

The board approved the Secretary Report after a motion by Jim and a second by Shirley. Senior bus service is ready to resume after a loaner was provided. The senior lunch program and activities continue, and a bingo event raised about $500. Food bag distributions were temporarily suspended following the death of the former coordinator.

• Approved Secretary Report (motion by Jim, second by Shirley)
• Suspended senior food bag distributions (no vote recorded)
• Approved motion to adjourn (motion by Bill Morris, second by Shirley Simpkins, approved by John Sheldon)

Communications Commission

The Communications Commission approved the minutes from the January meeting after a motion by Sara Thurston and a second by Bill Morris. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion and second by the same members. No other formal actions were voted on.

• Approved January minutes (motion by Sara Thurston, seconded by Bill Morris)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Sara Thurston, seconded by Bill Morris)

Township Committee

The Franklin Township Committee unanimously approved several grants, hires, equipment purchases, and tax exemptions, and postponed a public hearing on a street‑vacation ordinance to May 13, 2025. All motions listed were adopted without opposition.

• Approved $64,925 grant for Carmen Avenue property (unanimous)
• Approved $40,936 grant for 724 Elsea Drive (unanimous)
• Authorized hiring of part‑time crossing guard (unanimous)
• Authorized hiring of full‑time laborer (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of two zero‑turn mowers (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of one 16" cold planer (unanimous)
• Authorized tax exemption for veteran block 103 lot 29 (unanimous)
• Postponed public hearing on O‑2‑25 street vacation to May 13, 2025 (unanimous)

Historical Advisory Committee

The Historical Advisory Committee discussed upcoming events and a $91,000 grant for park renovations, but no formal actions or votes were recorded. Members were informed of the April 12 Egg Hunt, the May rededication of Malaga Lake Park, and the upcoming Community Day on September 20. The committee requested that the Malaga Park sign be replaced before the rededication.

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission decided to increase the size of the fireworks for Community Day and to improve communications for timing. It scheduled an Egg Hunt for April 12 at the Delsea Knights Football Field with the Skating Rink as a backup. It also set a Golf Tournament for April 26 at White Oake Golf Course. Future regular meetings will be held in the Community Center, with work meetings in the Recreation building as needed.

• Increased Fire Works size for Community Day (decision)
• Scheduled Egg Hunt for April 12 at Delsea Knights Football Field, backup at Skating Rink
• Scheduled Golf Tournament for April 26 at White Oake Golf Course
• Designated Community Center as venue for future regular meetings
• Designated Recreation building for work meetings as needed

Zoning Board

The board unanimously approved a 20 × 30‑foot pole barn at 1066 Royal Avenue and a 15 × 30‑foot addition at 862 Salem Avenue, each with a 5‑0 vote. The meeting also entered and exited a closed session for a litigation update, with no action taken. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved 20x30 pole barn at 1066 Royal Avenue (5-0)
• Approved 15x30 addition at 862 Salem Avenue (5-0)
• Entered closed session for litigation update (unanimous)
• Exited closed session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)