Pine Barrens Tribune April 12 - April 25, 2025

UNSETTLING SETTLEMENT DECISION

Governing Crisis Deepening Further in Pemberton Twp. Amid Mayor, Council Clash and Administrator Vacancy Tompkins, Ahead of Overseas Trip, Reportedly Appointed DPW Director Acting Mayor, But Stripped Powers in Memo, Contradicting Faulkner Act

By D ouglas D. M elegari

Staff Writer

PEMBERTON—A standoff between the all-Republican Pemberton Township Council and Pemberton Mayor Jack Tompkins has only intensified in recent days, evolving into a deepening governing crisis, as of this newspaper’s press time. The standoff comes as the council has repeatedly called on Tompkins to resign from elected office amid numerous allegations of wrongdoing, but so far, he has refused to do so, all while there has also been a vacancy extending several months now in the business administrator post. The situation has also followed a councilman publicly proclaiming that Tompkins, who ran in 2022 as a Republican, has now lost the backing of the local and county GOP.

By D ouglas D. M elegari

Staff Writer

PEMBERTON—For the last several weeks, Pemberton Township Council had been mulling over whether to settle, for $550,000, a November 2023 lawsuit brought by township Recreation Director Nichole Pittman against the township, Mayor Jack Tompkins and now-former township business administrator Daniel Hornickel, which alleged sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation was being directed at Pittman.

The local legislative body, however, on April 2, “very reluctantly,” declared

Councilman Matthew Bianchini in reading a resolution aloud that authorized the settlement, decided to settle the case, with $50,000 to come from the township’s coffers, with the remaining $500,000 to be paid by the Burlington County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund (JIF), a public entity

Under the provisions of the Faulkner Act, in a Mayor-Council form of government, which Pemberton has adopted, “the mayor shall designate the business administrator, any other department head, or the municipal clerk to act as mayor whenever the mayor shall be prevented by absence from the

Photo By Douglas D. Melegari

Shamong Twp. Committeeman Alleges BurlCo GOP Leaders Played ‘Dirty Politics’ in Challenging His Campaign Slogan County GOP Contests That Slogan Is ‘Already Owned’ by Organization, But Records Show Nonprofit Formed Day Elected Official Filed Petition

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

SHAMONG—A Shamong Township Committeeman is alleging that Burlington County GOP leaders have engaged in “dirty politics” in challenging his campaign slogan at the deadline time for petitions to be submitted for elected office ahead of a June primary.

Republican Committeeman Neil Wilkinson told this newspaper in a March 7 interview that not only has he been left without answers as to why the GOP would challenge his petition, but also in the dark about why his previous running mate in a prior campaign cycle, and current Shamong mayor, Michael Di Croce, ditched him this time around to run on a ticket instead with Michael Southwick, the latter who currently serves as an alternate on the township Rent Control Board.

Wilkinson forwarded an April 2 email from Ant Veneri, identifying as the executive director of the Burlington County Republican Committee, sent to Shamong Township Clerk Susan Onorato. The subject line given to the email is, “Neil Wilkinson Slogan Challenge.”

“The petition of Neil Wilkinson for Shamong Township Committee was filed using the slogan ‘Shamong Regular Republican Organization’ that is a slogan which is already owned by the Burlington County Republican Committee and Neil does not have our permission to use it,” Veneri wrote. “Attached below are documents which show our ownership of the slogan.”

But Wilkinson showed this newspaper a Certificate of Filing with the State of New Jersey, showing that “Shamong Regular Republican Organization Incorporated” was only “duly filed in accordance with New Jersey State Law” back on March 24, registered as a domestic nonprofit corporation.

It is also the very “same day,” according to Wilkinson, “my election petition forms were filed” with the county Board of Elections.

“I would like to know where Sean Earlen (Burlington GOP Leader) got the idea to file for that name as a nonprofit, on the same day that they would have received my election petition,” Wilkinson told this newspaper. “And then they contest my use of that slogan because it is ‘previously registered.’”

The Certificate of Formation identifies

a Board of Trustees for the organization comprising Veneri, as well as Charlie Lambiase, longtime treasurer of the Burlington County GOP, and Earlen.

Lambiase was also chosen as the "registered agent" for the newly-formed nonprofit in which its purpose described to the state is "political organization in Shamong.”

The address given for the nonprofit is that of the county Republican headquarters in Medford Township.

“Note the people who formed it,” Wilkinson told this reporter. “All county election officials, not Shamong residents.”

The deadline to submit petitions was April 3, with Veneri’s emailed challenge sent to Onorato on April 2.

Veneri, who copied his email challenging Wilkinson’s petition to Burlington County Clerk Joanne Schwartz, Earlen and Heather McGarvey, who is Di Croce’s paralegal (as also identified in the email address used for her) and is the Burlington County Regional Chair Executive Committee Member, did not return this newspaper’s messages seeking comment on this story, as of press time.

But as Wilkinson showed this newspaper, a top leader of the county Republican party

Weber, DMD Dr. Weber has been recognized for excellence in dentistry and has trained nationally and internationally with the most prestigious members of the profession.

Photo Provided

Republican Committeeman Neil Wilkinson of Shamong Township with his horse, Shadow.

Released Interim Report on BurlCo Election Fiasco Details Culture of ‘Territorialism in County Election Offices,’ Which Reportedly Prevented ‘Communication, Coordination’ Needed to Prep for Vote County Election Officials Found to Have Had Early Warning of Problems with Top Leaders Also Not in Central Workspace Set Up for Election Day; Unbalanced Voting Districts, Changes to Number of Machines Also Found

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

MOUNT HOLLY—A 49-page interim report from Connell Foley LLP on the law firm’s study of the 2024 General Election fiasco in Burlington County was released late on April 9, describing, in part, “a culture of territorialism in the county election offices prevented the communication, collaboration and coordination necessary to prepare for the November 2024 election.”

“Interviewees uniformly reported or strongly implied that interoffice, and sometimes intraoffice, constructive criticism is largely met with defensiveness or even personal attacks,” it is revealed in the report. “Election officials no longer meet on a regular basis; some officials reportedly will not work together at all. The extent to which the work environment affected the election offices’ ability to prepare for and administer the November 2024 general election will be a focus of our final, comprehensive report.”

Also revealed in the preliminary report is that “Burlington County election officials had warning of the problems that

could — and did — plague the November 2024 election.”

That purportedly included a municipal clerk having “emailed county election officials about problems with the new election process” following the 2024 primary election.

“I think we all knew introducing the new machines would be challenging, but I feel like many, if not most of the issues could have been avoided with better communication and training, not just for the clerks, but poll workers as well,” is what the email reportedly stated.

The clerk then reportedly asked “to get a meeting scheduled between all of your offices and the Burlington County Municipal Clerks to go over the challenges we faced so that hopefully, come November, things won’t be a complete disaster.”

It was noted that following that email, the county election offices later held an open house for municipal clerks to visit the county election building and learn about the voting equipment.

Also revealed in the report is that “on Election Day” this past November, “not all

See ELECTION/ Page 6

Southampton Proposes $5.5M Capital Improvement Program That Includes Funds for Purchase of One-Arm Bandit Trash Trucks Township to Also Investigate Enhancements to Municipal Properties, Then Decide Whether to Expand Program Given Expiring Debt Service

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

SOUTHAMPTON—A $5.5 million capital improvement program proposed for Southampton Township would include a set aside for a long-discussed overhaul of the Department of Public Works’ trash hauling program and fund a prior commitment of the Southampton Township Committee to continue the service in-house.

According to a budget presentation delivered this past month by Township Administrator Brandon Umba, $1 million is presently earmarked for the procurement of one-arm bandit trash trucks, as well as the compatible trash carts to be provided to residents.

Another $1 million in the proposed capital plan, according to Umba, would be used to purchase “various DPW equipment to enhance services to the residents.”

“I am looking to purchase, at minimum, two International Hooklift trucks and those trucks would have the capability of hooking up flatbed connections, such as a leaf vacuum systems,” Umba said. “With this leaf vac system, we could eliminate the requirement of residents to bag their leaves each season because this system would allow us to collect loose piles of leaves through the vac system. Additionally, we could purchase a brine

spreader flatbed connection trailer to put on there as well. Plus, we would also be able to purchase regular dumpster flatbeds, which could be used by residents for full house cleanouts or spring cleaning for a set service charge, which is a service that the township does not currently offer, and residents are left to contract out this service with a private hauler.”

These hook trucks, he maintained, would also have ability to “connect a plow hookup and other snow operations,” such as to “salt spreader capabilities as another trailer flatbed connection that will enhance our ability to address snow events better.”

Ultimately Umba’s aim is that these trucks would be “multi-versatile” and allow for “multiple ways to enhance services to the residents.”

“What I am suggesting is that if we go with the one-armed bandits, the township could then take trash collection probably to four days a week,” the township administrator said. With that change, brush pickup, which is currently done on a case-by-case basis by residents calling the township to be put on a list, could then be moved to one full week each month, and additionally, the township could add one full week a month of limited bulk trash pick-up for items that do not fit in

See SOUTHAMPTON/ Page 7

By Bill B onvie Staff Writer

EVESHAM—The Evesham Township Council has unanimously approved the appointment of a new municipal court judge, replacing Judge Karen J. Caplan, who had held the position for 22 years.

A resolution naming Adam D. Greenberg, the managing member of the Cherry Hill law firm of Honig & Greenberg, to the post, was adopted by a 5-0 vote at the all-Democratic council’s March 12 meeting.

The resolution specified that “each judge of a municipal court shall serve for a term of three years from the date of appointment and until a successor is appointed and qualified,” and that “the last Evesham Township Municipal Judge appointment was on July 10, 2018, for a term that expired on July 10, 2021.” It also claimed that Caplan had been serving until the appointment of a successor since July 10, 2021, and that a “vacancy” therefore existed in the court, which it indicated Greenberg’s appointment was intended to fill.

However, according to New Jersey Court rules accessed by the Pine Barrens Tribune, “a municipal judge can be reappointed indefinitely, as long as they continue to meet the qualifications and perform their duties effectively,” and while municipal judges are typically appointed for a term of three years, “there's no statutory limit on how many times a judge can be reappointed.” Such reappointment, the rules also state, “is subject to the approval of the mayor or governing body of the municipality, and the judge must continue to be in good standing with the requirements set by the New Jersey Supreme Court.”

No mention was made of the municipal judge’s position at the council’s Jan. 3 reorganization meeting, although those of the prosecutor, assistant prosecutor, public defenders and conflict public defender were covered by that session. Nor did Caplan make clear whether she voluntarily had chosen to retire at this time while

delivering a five-minute speech during the public comment period prior to the vote, in which she expressed her gratitude to Court Administrator Staci Heavner and Deputy Administrator Cassandra Messler for having “done an amazing job” and having “made everything run seamlessly” and made her “look good” when she was experiencing difficult times.

Caplan also thanked other court officials for their help during her prolonged tenure, along with the previous Republican council for having “appointed and reappointed me” and “especially” former Republican Mayor Randy Brown, whom she described as being “very kind and appreciative in his words.”

Caplan’s summation of her two decadesplus of meting out justice in Evesham Township also included several references to compliments she had received for her performance on the bench, such as Assignment Judge John A. Sweeney crediting her with running a “model court” and another assignment judge, Ronald E. Bookbinder, having called her “ one of the smartest, hardest working and organized judges in the county.”

Defendants and their families, she maintained, have likewise praised her work.

“I know it will probably shock some people, but they have come up to me personally to tell me what an impact I’ve made—even to treat their addict son or daughter with respect,” declared Caplan, with one mother even having credited the judge for her son becoming a priest.

While there was no official acknowledgement by the council of Caplan’s stepping down other than the resolution appointing Greenberg, Councilwoman Heather Cooper did take its adoption as an opportunity to briefly acknowledge and praise Caplan’s years of service to the community.

Noting that “there are many legacy stories about Judge Caplan that will carry on for many years to come,” Cooper told the

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

WASHINGTON—The speed limit along the entire length of River Road in the Lower Bank section of Washington Township has been recommended to be lowered from 25 mph to 15 mph, it was announced at the April 1 Washington Township Committee meeting.

Following the announcement, an ordinance was introduced by the governing body that would implement the new speed limit, with a second reading and public hearing scheduled for May 6.

“We are intent to lower the speed limit on River Road in Lower Bank from the base of the bridge to the end of the road (where it intersects with County Route 542), from 25 mph to 15 mph,” said Mayor C. Leigh Gadd, Jr.

The suggested reduction in the speed limit came from an “engineering analysis” performed by Township Engineer Kevin Dixon.

“We have visited the site numerous times, and have facilitated the repaving of this road,” Dixon wrote to township officials.

“The road measures approximately 16 feet wide, which makes it substandard for a 25-mph speed limit. In addition, there is a curving geometry, which combined with vegetation and structures, limits sight distance. In my professional opinion, with a reasonable degree of engineering certainty, the recommended speed limit for this section of roadway is 15 mph.”

James said he has had a “a lot” of residents complain about speeding on River Road, “and now that they have removable speed bumps” available, “we might want to look back into that.”

Gadd pointed out that the county had given the township “parameters” for speed humps and bumps, and suggested that installing them on River Road might be something to approach the county about.

What followed the introduction of the speed limit ordinance was a section of the agenda to approve “campground permits” for the 2025 season, including for MP Campground, Inc. (known as Belhaven Lake RV Resort), Turtle Run Campground

and Wading Pines Campground.

“Do we have site plans for all of the campgrounds?” asked Deputy Mayor Daniel James, to which he was told by Deputy Township Clerk Karen Bacon, “Yes.”

But Bacon could not say whether they were up to date, when queried by James.

“Now we are being informed that there is only 38 percent or 40 percent park models,” said James evidently of one of the campgrounds. “Well, we redid the ordinance 10 years ago, and they had already 65 percent. So, either they have more sites, or they have taken out a bunch of park models, which I don’t believe. So, my concern is we need to check the site plans to verify that they haven’t done any unauthorized expansions.”

Gadd questioned whether “they have changed the ratio by eliminating regular campers and adding more models,” but pointed out the campsites have already been inspected for the year, and perhaps they can get more details from the inspector.

Committeewoman Jeanne Fox-Ford pointed out the permit application “asks for the number of campsites, and then we have a fee” and also inquires about the “number of stored camping units, and then we have a fee,” but perhaps it should be redone to require “more information” of the campsite operators making application to the township.

“There is an assumption that they are giving us accurate information,” Fox-Ford pointed out. “But maybe we want to redo our form and ask for a copy of their site map with it.”

James then charged, “I know for a fact that one of the campgrounds has expanded without permits.”

Initially, James wanted to table approving all three campground permits, but Gadd pointed out the campsites “are all open now” for the season. The committee ultimately “conditionally approved” them.

Gadd suggested having a discussion with the inspector on “how up to date everything is” and “if we need to make some changes

Woodland Resident Suggests Municipality Should Study Whether Sending Township Pupils to Tabernacle Would Bring Tax Savings Woman Claims Her Property Taxes Have Shot Up More Than 50 Percent, with More Than Half of What She Is Paying Going Toward Schools

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

WOODLAND—Whether any tax savings can be achieved by closing the Chatsworth Elementary School in Woodland Township, and sending its pupils who are in grades K-8 to nearby Tabernacle Township Schools, is something that a Woodland Township resident suggested that the Woodland Township Committee should explore on the taxpayers’ behalf during the governing body’s March 26 session.

Resident Mary Marchut claimed that her property taxes have climbed by 54.4 percent since 2015, adding, “I have lived in different municipalities and their taxes do not go that high.”

“Also, school taxes account for half of my property taxes,” Marchut observed.

She then asked the governing body, “Has anyone done a study to see if it is beneficial for children to go to Tabernacle?”

“The township can institute a study, but there is a cost to that,” replied Woodland Township Solicitor William Burns. “The school board would have to agree to that, if there was a movement for regionalization.”

Deputy Mayor Mark Herndon claimed that “two feasibility studies” were done

previously and “it wasn’t easy.”

But Marchut persisted in asking why there is “no transparency” about “what it would cost” to send “the small amount of children we have here” to Tabernacle Schools.

“There has to be a big overhead cost between the building, the teachers and everything,” the woman surmised.

DeGroff told Marchut to “talk to the school board about that,” but also appeared to indicate his opposition to closing Chatsworth Elementary, asserting that the local school serves as a “big draw” for people to “come to this community.”

“And I think they like what is happening in this town,” the mayor declared.

Marchut, however, shot back, “It is kind of nice that there are a hundred people that like it, that might have school children, but how about the residents here?”

“They are all getting older,” she claimed. “They don’t want to leave their homes, and their taxes are just going up and up!”

DeGroff again told the woman to express her concerns to the local school board, but Marchut questioned whether having a school in town is a “township” decision.

Burns responded that there would have to be a “regionalization study,” and if it

Super Wawa Approved for Former Red Lion Diner Tract

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

SOUTHAMPTON—A Super Wawa

with gas pumps has been approved by the Southampton Township Land Development Board for a property adjoining the Routes 70 and 206 circle in Southampton Township.

Township Administrator Brandon Umba confirmed the approval was granted to Red Lion Circle Partners, LLC, on April 3.

The Wawa is slated to replace the nowvacant Red Lion Diner, as was previously reported by this newspaper.

Further details about the approval were not immediately available by this newspaper’s deadline time.

was decided to move forward with a sendreceive relationship based on any results, voters in “both the sending district and receiving district would have to pass” a ballot question.

Marchut maintained it would be “interesting to have that vote for the people whose taxes are getting higher,” pointing out that of her $10,000 tax bill, $5,400 is for the schools.

At one point during the exchange, DeGroff claimed that it is “Lenape that is killing us,” or the school district taxes assessed by the Lenape Regional High School District (LRHSD), with Woodland pupils in grades 9-12 attending LRHSD’s Seneca High School.

Tax records show the 3.07-acre diner parcel at 1753 Route 206 was sold to Red Lion Circle Partners on Sept. 8, 2023, for $1,300,000.

A neighboring parcel, 1852 Route 70, was also sold that day to the firm for $720,000.

The sudden closure of the nearly-50-year old diner led to quite an uproar when it happened, with there having been a prior commitment on the part of the then-diner’s ownership to rebuild a new diner to replace the aging one.

But the ownership contended it became unfeasible to do so, in deciding to sell the tract.

Resident Terry Sheerin pointed out that the township is paying the schools about $190,000 a month.

“And I think that is where everybody is getting their panties in a twist, because it is a lot of money,” she said.

DeGroff responded “I don’t disagree with you,” recognizing, “It is a lot of money.”

Officials with the Woodland Township School District did not reply to this newspaper’s request for comment on this story, as of press time.

However, previously, when it was mentioned about a possible merger with Tabernacle, it drew outcry at Woodland

See WOODLAND/ Page 13

ELECTION

(Continued from Page 3)

lead election officials worked in the “war room,” or “the central workspace that the offices set up for Election Day.”

“The reasons for the absences varied: the Democratic administrator was on medical leave; the Republican administrator was onsite, but worked somewhere else,” the report memorializes.

The report continues that “in all events, the absence of personnel made it difficult to handle, for one thing, the flood of incoming calls from poll workers and voters asking for help.”

“Callers often sought information beyond the authority of the personnel who answered, requiring input from someone with authority who was not always present,” the investigating law firm found. “For another, the gap between leadership led to disconnects on important, timesensitive matters such as, perhaps most exemplary, the status of legal efforts to keep the polls open past 8 p.m.”

It is recommended in the report that to “speed up the time it takes to resolve complaints and to stay aligned on developments, election officials with knowledge and final authority must all work in the same room on election days.”

Also revealed in the report is that the county had technology available to it to be able to track polling place wait times, which officials could then have posted online to keep voters informed.

However, according to the report, the Board of Elections “chose not to use the solution on Election Day due to concerns about a lack of training.” And the report also details an incident during early voting in which an administrator gave “initial resistance” to using the technology.

But going forward, according to the report, “the board administrators and the superintendent plan to use the wait time solution from the start.”

Also found through the investigation was that the “layout of some polling places caused needless delay.”

“Before the polls opened on Election Day morning, poll workers wasted time figuring out by trial and error how to lay out the polling places,” it was determined. “And oftentimes, the layout obstructed flow and created safety hazards like clogged doorways and uncovered cables along the floor.”

It has now been suggested that “instead of relying on poll workers for arrangement, the Board of Elections should collaborate with municipal clerks on how to lay out the polling rooms methodically.”

Additionally, it has been recommended that the Board of Elections “should work with municipalities to set up the polling locations, no later than the day before the election.”

The report recognizes numerous published reports, including from the Pine Barrens Tribune , about how “the location, parking, and facilities of some polling buildings” had “strained elderly and disabled voters’ ability to vote,” with there being “illogically formed lines” that “clogged” the entranceways and “posed safety concerns.”

The Board of Elections, it is recommended, “should revamp its approach to the selection of polling places that provide the convenience, accessibility and privacy required under the law.”

“We recommend that the Board of Elections work with the municipal clerks to assess whether all the current polling locations can accommodate longer voting lines resulting from the new, multi-step voting process, in accordance with accessibility and fire-safety rules,” the investigating lawyers wrote. “The municipal clerks should also coordinate with local personnel and law enforcement to ensure that polling locations provide access to entrances, restrooms and seating so that all voters can participate in the voting process.”

Also recommended is that “Burlington County should maintain an active Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee to aid in these efforts.”

Also discovered was that “some of Burlington County’s election districts have become too unbalanced and reportedly have not been updated since at least 2018” and that “Burlington County has several election districts ripe for redistricting.”

An accompanying press release with the report from Burlington County’s Office of Public Information claimed that “several of Connell Foley’s recommended actions were started before the independent special counsel’s interim report was received in anticipation that the change would be needed before the upcoming primary election” in June.

“The Burlington County Election Board, Superintendent of Elections Office and Burlington County Clerk’s Office have also started the process to redraw

the boundaries of the election districts in five Burlington County towns to ensure none have more than the recommended standard of 750 voters,” it was stated in the release. “Affected voters in these towns will be notified of the changes before the June 10 primary.”

According to the report, “Burlington County will soon finish the process of redistricting five towns, with several more expected to follow,” and it is recommended “completion” of redistricting occurs in 2026.

The report acknowledges several issues with the printing of the ballots used last November, as previously detailed by this newspaper. Causes, investigators found, included “double-sided ballots” and the use of 22-inch paper for their printing, which “piled higher faster than expected, jamming up the tabulatordischarge process.”

A number of procedural changes have been recommended to prevent printing issues in the future, including the most basic step of having poll workers monitor ink levels.

The report also addresses the previous main observation of both the public and elected officials, or that there were fewer voting machines during the 2024 General Election than in previous election cycles.

“For years, the Superintendent of Elections deployed one voting machine for every 1,200 eligible voters in each district,” investigators found. “When Burlington County purchased the new voting machines, the formula became one voting machine for every 1,000 eligible voters in a district, plus any additional machines that the Superintendent deployed upon Dominion’s suggestion or a municipal clerk’s request, depending on whether the destination polling place had enough space for additional machines, which are considerably larger than the old machines.”

That finding came with another recommendation, or that the “Superintendent of Elections should reassess its calculation of the number of voting machines needed at each polling place.”

The accompanying press release pointed to a Burlington County Board of Commissioners authorization on March 26 “to purchase additional voting machines and other election equipment requested by the Superintendent of Elections Office.”

The authorized purchase reportedly includes “additional ballot marking devices, tabulators and machine

storage shells.”

“The additional equipment is expected to ensure each polling location has at least one ballot marking device for every 750 eligible voters,” Burlington County officials maintained. “Funding for this purchase was part of the 2025 budget introduced by the commissioners last month.”

But will county election officials, such as Dawn Marie Addiego, who is the county Superintendent of Elections and a past Republican turned Democratic state senator, Joanne Schwartz, Democratic county clerk, or members of the Board of Elections be held accountable for the November fiasco, or get to retain their jobs and be trusted to implement the prescribed reforms?

Burlington County Commissioners’ Director Dr. Felicia Hopson, a Democrat, through a statement contained in the press release, appeared unwilling to call for their resignations or cast blame on any one particular person.

“The independent special counsel’s interim report outlines preliminary factual findings and assessments about what caused the unacceptable long lines and delays on Election Day, and it makes recommendations about what actions our county should take to prevent the problems from occurring again,” she said. “It does not place blame on any one office or official; there were failures all around and the report makes that clear. Our county must now work together to quickly implement the recommendations. Several of these are already in the works, and we call on the county’s elections offices to follow through and comply with the others. Whatever assistance and support is required, we will provide it.”

As of this newspaper’s press time, that position didn’t appear to be sitting well with a number of voters digesting the report, however, with one man writing on the county’s Facebook page, underneath the announcement of the report’s release, “So in other words, no one will be held accountable? Gotcha.”

“Remember who’s in charge of the county when you go to vote in this year's General Election,” another man wrote. “There have been so many problems leading up to last year’s election, from misprinted ballots to inaccurate information, but 2024 was the culmination of ineffective leadership at our county.”

SOUTHAMPTON

(Continued from Page 3)

the trash containers provided by the township.

Plus, the proposed dumpster program would allow for bigger bulk trash pickups for events such as “cleaning out of houses,” or large spring cleanups that residents might have at their properties.

It is a concept, he maintained, that is identical to what he put in place in neighboring townships, where he has previously served as the business administrator.

Umba’s bottom-line of the proposal for Southampton is “enhancing the services to the residents.”

Other things to be purchased with the $1 million set aside for Public Works equipment, according to Umba, is a new hot patch trailer, “which is a trailer to keep the asphalt hot when you are going to fill in potholes,” as well as a new brush chipper “to add to our already growing fleet.”

“We are also looking at a couple of new lawnmowers, and to replace a few pickup trucks, which would all be within that million dollars,” Umba said.

This newspaper previously reported on Vincent Fire Company’s need for new fire trucks. Additionally, Umba discussed that the Hampton Lakes Emergency Squad is “going to be requesting additional resources as well.”

Another $1 million of the capital improvement plan, he said, is currently earmarked for “emergency services.”

Additionally, $500,000 is proposed to be set aside for the township to “investigate enhancements to township properties.” Umba stated, however, that he did not anticipate

using all the money in merely investigating; rather the township opted on a round number.

While the equipment costs for the Department of Public Works and emergency services will likely exceed what is being provided through the capital plan, the township, he explained, anticipates using other revenue sources, including some money put in reserves during the previous few years, as well as monies collected through a PILOT program for a new warehouse slated in the area of Routes 206 and 38. The township also recently was awarded a $77,000 grant to “convert one of the tennis courts here at the municipal building into a basketball court, and adding lighting to that part of the complex,” according to Umba.

Lastly, the final $2 million comprising the capital plan is for road improvements, with Umba telling this newspaper that the township’s engineering firm, Alaimo Group, has identified nine roads requiring repaving, to include sections of Burrs Mill Road, Eayerestown Road, and Old Red Lion Roads, as well as five streets in LeisureTowne. The township, he explained, is considering doing the paving in phases, with a focus on addressing LeisureTowne separately in the beginning phase.

While the capital improvement plan that is currently proposed is $5.5 million, Umba discussed how the township could do as much as a $16 million capital program if it wanted to, while keeping taxes “flat.”

While the committee introduced a bond ordinance of $5.5 million on March 18 “for the acquisition of various capital equipment and completion of various capital improvements,” Umba indicated it was potentially only a start

See SOUTHAMPTON/ Page 15

Annual Juried Fine Arts and Craft Fair Returns to The Village at Taunton Forge in Medford Township

The much-anticipated 2nd Annual Juried Fine Arts & Craft Fair is set to return to The Village at Taunton Forge, 200 Tuckerton Rd., Medford, NJ, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 AM to 4 PM.

This premier event will showcase an impressive collection of fine artists and skilled artisans who embody quality craftsmanship and artistic excellence.

Visitors will have the chance to explore original artwork, handcrafted wares, and live art demonstrations throughout the charming Village shops and restaurants. The fair is not just an art exhibition—it’s an

immersive cultural experience, featuring live performances from talented local musicians and performers.

"This event is a true celebration of creativity and craftsmanship,"says Lesha Moore, Event Organizer. "It’s a perfect opportunity for art lovers and collectors to meet the artists, experience live demonstrations, and purchase unique, oneof-a-kind works."

For event details and artists who are interested in participating, visit LeshaStudios.com.

Take advantage of this unique advertising opportunity when you call or email us today. We’re here to help with fresh promotions, great ad design and more to make your business/organization stand out!

SHAMONG

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appeared to be aware of Wilkinson’s intention to use the slogan of “Shamong Regular Republican Organization” in advance of the nonprofit organization registration and challenge.

That is because Wilkinson informed the county Board of Elections on Feb. 25, via email, that, “We recently registered a political organization with F.E.C. (the Federal Election Commission) called ‘Shamong Regular Republican Organization.’”

(He later provided this newspaper with proof of the F.E.C. filing for the committee name of “Shamong Regular Republican Organization,” having done it on Feb. 22, with a statement of organization for the “single candidate independent expenditure” provided on March 9.)

“This organization was specifically formed to support moderate Republican candidates in Shamong, NJ local elections,” he further informed the Election Board. “The assigned registration number is ID: C00898221.”

Wilkinson then posed a question of, “Do we need to register with (the) Burlington County Election Board or file with your organization?”

Linda Hughes, administrator of the Burlington County Board of Elections, responded later on Feb. 25, “No, you do not need to file or register any political organization information with the Board of Elections.”

Hughes is the Republican administrator of the Board of Elections, but also according to her LinkedIn profile page, is the “vice chair” of the Burlington County Republican Committee, a position her LinkedIn page says she has held since December 2018.

GOP primaries in municipal races have only seldomly occurred in Burlington County over the past decade. Last year, candidates in municipal races, with the apparent backing of the county GOP, used “Burlington County Regular Republican Organization” as a slogan.

However, following a slew of legal challenges that began last year during Primary season, which ultimately resulted in court rulings and settlements, Murphy signed new legislation creating a new ballot design for primaries.

Essentially, county clerks are now required to print ballots that group candidates by the office they are seeking, eliminating the longtime county-line system that saw ballots group disparate candidates who all received endorsements from county political parties.

Advocates of the move say “office-block ballots” provide for more neutrality.

As for why Wilkinson was the subject of a challenge from the county GOP, and why Di Croce has decided not to run with him this time around (with Wilkinson telling this newspaper he and Di Croce have not talked), Wilkinson said he was simply left to take a guess, thinking it could be either one of two things.

As Wilkinson explained to this newspaper, a few years back when he first ran for the township committee, McGarvey lost to him in a then-GOP primary, and he believes McGarvey, who now has a position with the county GOP, in addition to her paralegal role in Di Croce’s office, has not been happy with him since that time.

Secondly, Wilkinson recounted a

moment from the Shamong committee’s 2024 reorganization meeting, when thenCommitteeman Chris Zehnder was taken by surprise by protest over him becoming the deputy mayor that year (having originated over the way a meeting had gone in late 2023, that he chaired in Di Croce’s absence, over controversial animal regulations that had been proposed by the Land Use Board through a Master Plan reexamination).

According to Wilkinson, Di Croce wanted Committeeman Brian Woods, also the chief of staff to 8th Legislative District Republican Senator Latham Tiver and Assemblyman Michael Torrissi, Jr., to become deputy mayor after the incident, but he ultimately voted with a majority to install Zehnder for 2024 deputy mayor.

(McGarvey had also been very vocal in how she thought Zehnder had crossed the line in the way he spoke to residents back in 2023.)

Zehnder, while he held the deputy mayor role for all of last year, went on to lose a June 2024 Republican primary to Dave Diamond, who was seated earlier this year as his replacement on the township committee.

But as Wilkinson pointed out, without having spoken to Di Croce or the county GOP, he is merely speculating, wanting concrete answers.

Di Croce, in returning this newspaper’s phone call to him on April 7 requesting comment on this story, maintained, “I am not involved directly or indirectly in the decision to contest Mr. Wilkinson’s use of whatever it is.”

“I don’t even know what his slogan is, but I am not involved in that,” the Shamong mayor further contended.

When this newspaper asked Di Croce how he arrived at the decision to not choose Wilkinson as his running mate for this year’s primary, the mayor replied that he has known Southwick for “quite a long time” and he has been a “longtime township resident,” pointing out he is also a former basketball coach for area youth.

“I chose him because I think he better represents the philosophy of the town,” Di Croce continued. “That is, he is a conservative Republican who has the interests of our neighbors in mind.”

Di Croce maintained to this reporter that he “never intended to give our friend Neil Wilkinson” the shaft, adding, he is someone “who I like, and I consider him to be a friend.”

“I don't have anything bad to say about him whatsoever,” Di Croce told this newspaper, but rather, “I just think Mr. Southwick is more aligned with what our community is all about.”

Di Croce acknowledged he “never discussed” his decision with Wilkinson, adding, “I am sorry his feelings are hurt, if that is the case.” Yet, when Di Croce was pressed if he has regrets about not talking with Wilkinson beforehand, he answered, “No, not really.”

“I guess it is just politics,” he said in response to this newspaper’s questioning. “It is nothing. It is only business, right?”

Di Croce, when further queried about Wilkinson’s belief his paralegal may have played in a role in this, called it “correct” that McGarvey and Wilkinson were at one time “running against each other,” further recounting he took the step of “bringing them both in” to his office.

“I remember bringing both of them in saying, hey, ‘You are both qualified and rather than have a nasty race or whatever, why don’t you guys, if you can, work it out and decide

who is going to run?’” Di Croce recounted. “And the result of that meeting was they both decided to run. So that is about as much as I know.”

Di Croce pointed out Wilkinson ultimately “ran and won,” calling him a “good councilman,” but just not one “completely in line with what I think the philosophy of our town is.”

This reporter asked if Di Croce could name an example, but he answered, “no, not really.” Then this newspaper questioned if there was something Wilkinson proposed that made him sour on the committeeman, to which he responded, “I guess no instance jumps out at me as to his political leanings, just that I think that Mr. Southwick is a true conservative and is more aligned with what I think our community wants.”

When asked if the Zehender matter played any role, Di Croce responded, “I believe it was the mayor’s prerogative to determine who the deputy mayor is.” He confirmed, “I wanted to pick Brian Woods because I thought he was more qualified because of his background, and who he had worked for, with his state connections.”

Di Croce then revealed “that there was an agreement that Brian would take the deputy mayor” post in 2024, but “then the next day, it was Mr. Zehender 's position that he was changing his mind and that he felt that he was entitled to the deputy mayor (post) because of the amount of time that he had put in community projects.”

But Di Croce told this newspaper he ultimately was “comfortable with that” and “we had a vote,” which was 3-2.

“So, you know, I was not happy about it, but I was not unhappy about it, right?” Di

Croce said. “Like you said, it is just politics.”

Ultimately, however, Di Croce, upon this reporter’s pressing of him for an answer, recognized it was a purported social media posting by Wilkinson that caused him to sour on choosing him as his running mate this election cycle.

The comments, Di Croce recounted, had to do “with our current councilman, David Diamond” and “his business.” The mayor said he could not recall the exact words, but that Diamond owns a distillery and the posting mentioned “cheap liquor or cheap whiskey.”

“David Diamond is a guy who has lived in Shamong for 35 years, has raised five children here, and has created a business called Train Wreck Distillery, which is in Mount Holly, which, you know, is a great business that he conducted,” Di Croce said. “And he also, during COVID, converted his business to make hand sanitizer for COVID. So, for those reasons, I backed David Diamond.

“And now I think that Michael Southwick has the most talent, the most loyalty to the town. His interest is in the neighbors. And I just think he is a better fit for Shamong.” Yet, Di Croce maintained he has no “ill will” toward Wilkinson “whatsoever,” rather, “I am appreciative of what he has done for our town.”

Wilkinson, when later asked about the social media posting that Di Croce described, acknowledged that it occurred “when they were running against Chris,” but maintained he made it “because they were charging $30 to ‘meet with the candidates,’ declaring, “I think my post was something to the effect that, ‘You don’t have to ‘pay’ to meet Chris.’”

See SHAMONG/ Page 15

• Easter week services

• Fun for kids

• DIY decorating

• Gifts & dining

4 Easter surprises to delight your children

Do you have young children? If you want to see their eyes light up this Easter weekend, prepare one or more of these delightful surprises:

1. Breakfast in bed. Turn a simple breakfast into a magical moment. Cook eggs and pancakes with fruit or waffles drizzled with chocolate. Serve hot chocolate with marshmallows or freshly squeezed orange juice to delight your little ones’ taste buds. Let them enjoy their meal in bed while listening to lively music.

2. Easter egg hunt. Fill plastic eggs with candies, small toys and chocolate, then hide them around your home or yard. For added fun, have your kids wear bunny ears and give them a pretty wicker basket to collect their treasures.

3. Puppet show. Create an Easter-themed puppet show. Invent a funny story featuring clumsy or mischievous farm animals. You can make your own puppets using materials you have at home— socks, for example—or buy some at a local store. Laughter and applause guaranteed.

4. A visit from the Easter bunny. Give your little ones an unforgettable experience by asking a relative to dress up as the Easter Bunny. This special visitor can hide chocolate eggs in the yard while you “spy” on them with your children. Perhaps your Easter visitor could read a short story before giving your kids little presents, like bunny plushies.

With a little imagination and preparation, you can make Easter even more special for your children. Take this opportunity to create lasting memories and have fun!

Celebrate Easter at a restaurant? A fabulous idea!

This year, say goodbye to the stress of hosting family at home for Easter and treat yourself to a delicious, hassle-free meal prepared by professionals. Dining in a festive restaurant setting allows you to enjoy the occasion with your loved ones to the fullest.

IT MAKES SENSE!

At a restaurant, each guest can choose

their favorite meal or opt for the special Easter menu, featuring traditional dishes and modern variations, including vegetarian options. You could savor an asparagus risotto or a delightful spring vegetable puff pastry. Mouth-watering, right?

After you’ve eaten your fill, look for a fun activity your family can enjoy together.

Perhaps you can ride in a horse-drawn carriage, stroll around a mini-farm or visit a playground.

The best part? You don’t have to worry about pre-meal prep or postmeal cleaning.

Browse the websites of restaurants offering Easter menus to find the perfect place to treat yourself and your loved ones.

Important reminder: reservations are filling up fast for these gourmet destinations, so be sure to book your table today!

Reflect and Rejoice

Reflect and Rejoice

Palm Sunday Mass - April 13th Saturday: 5:30 p.m.

Holy Week

Sunday: 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m., and 12:00 p.m.

Holy Thursday - April 17th Mass and Procession of the Blessed Sacrament: 7:00 p.m. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Until Midnight Good Friday - April 18th

The Lord’s Passion: 3:00 p.m. Stations with Veneration of the Cross: 7:00 p.m.

Holy Saturday - April 19th Blessing of the Food: 12:00 p.m.

The Easter Vigil Mass: 8:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday Mass - April 20th 7:30, 9:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. 10:30 a.m. Children’s Mass

Daily Mass, Egg Hunt, Confession info and more found at smlparish.org

Reflect and Rejoice

A creative family project for Easter: a great way to bond!

The Easter long weekend is the perfect time for the whole family to come together, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company. If you’re looking for ways to keep kids, uncles, cousins, grandparents and everyone else busy between Easter egg hunts and brunch, consider a collective creative project. It’s a fun and original way to strengthen family ties while having a great time. Here are a few suggestions to inspire you:

• Create a canvas mosaic. Give each person a small canvas (6" x 6", for example), along with brushes and paint. The task? Paint something that evokes Easter. Once all the artwork is dry, attach the canvases to a large backing, such as a cork bulletin board, to create a stunning mosaic.

• Shoot an action movie. Use a camera or smartphone to film a funny story full of twists and turns on the theme of Easter. Every family member can contribute, whether by playing a role, finding costumes and props or helping with lighting.

• Make a miniature village. Create houses, trees and barns using recycled materials like old shoeboxes. Paint them and liven up the decor with figurines of people and animals. Everyone, young and old, can contribute their ideas to make the village more interesting. Why not add a public swimming pool or a sandbox?

Happy Easter, and happy creating!

Macaroni and cheese bites

Golden, chewy and crispy, these cheesy bites are sure to please little ones and grown-ups alike!

INGREDIENTS

Servings: 4

• 2 cups uncooked macaroni

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1 cup flour, divided

• 1 cup half & half

• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese

• 1/4 cup cream cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 cups vegetable oil

• 1 cup store-bought marinara sauce

• A few fresh basil leaves

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large pot, cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In the same pot, melt the butter. Add a 1/4 cup of flour and whisk to combine. Cook for about 3 minutes, until the roux is golden brown.

3. Add the half & half a little at a time, whisking constantly. Add the cheeses gradually, allowing them to melt between each addition. Add the spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from the heat.

4. Combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a large shallow dish. Place in the refrigerator and let stand for at least one hour.

5. Put the remaining flour, 2 eggs (lightly whisked) and breadcrumbs into 3 separate bowls. Set aside.

6. Using your hands, shape the cooled macaroni and cheese into balls. Coat each ball, first with flour, then the beaten egg, and then the breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.

7. Heat the vegetable oil to 350 F in a large pot. Fry the balls in small batches for about 5 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside on a clean cloth or paper towel. Repeat until all balls are fried.

8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately with marinara sauce.

Found all the birds? Fly in with your puzzle and take 10% off your next buy!

Where are the blue eggs hiding?

By Sarah Beauregard and Johannie Dufour Translated by Jasmine Heesaker

To celebrate Easter, Mrs. Hyacinth decided to organize an Easter egg hunt in the park near the nursery school. Early in the morning, she filled colorful plastic eggs with surprises like small toys, stickers, temporary tattoos and, of course, chocolates. Then, she hid them in all sorts of places like under trees, in play structures and on picnic tables.

The boys and girls were so excited! Holding a small bag, Mrs. Hyacinth explained the instructions.

“Get into teams of two and pick your colour. If you draw a pink button, you must find the pink eggs. If you draw a green button…”

“We have to find the green eggs!” a boy proudly chimed in.

“Exactly!” replied the teacher, smiling.

The pairs took turns, each picking a button. Then, Mrs. Hyacinth gave the starting signal.

“You have 15 minutes to fill your baskets! Happy hunting!”

The children happily searched for the eggs, filling their wicker baskets with pink, yellow, purple, green, white and orange eggs. All but the blue team—they felt sad. Even though Emma and Jacob looked everywhere, they couldn’t find any eggs in their color.

“Hmm, that’s strange,” thought Mrs. Hyacinth. “I remember hiding several blue eggs.”

“Hey, kids!” she said. “Would you like to help Emma and Jacob? We’re looking for the blue eggs!”

The entire class eagerly searched for a few more minutes. Suddenly, Emma ran up to her teacher and tugged on her sleeve.

“Mrs. Hyacinth! I’ve found the eggs, but I can’t pick them up!” she said with starry eyes and a huge smile.

“Ah yes, where?” asked Mrs. Hyacinth, intrigued.

“Come and see!” exclaimed Emma.

The little girl led her to the back of the park and pointed to a hole under a tree. It was a burrow. The teacher bent down and discovered a rabbit and her adorable

Gooey brownies

Easter means chocolate! What could be more delicious than brownies to round out a meal in good company?

INGREDIENTS

Servings: 16

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 1/4 cups white sugar

• 3/4 cup cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup flour

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 325 F. Line an 8” x 8” square baking pan with parchment paper, lightly oiled.

2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from the heat and add the sugar, cocoa, vanilla and salt. Mix well and let cool for about 10 minutes.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Fold in the flour.

4. Pour the mixture into the dish and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Cool and cut into 16 pieces.

babies playing with the blue eggs.

“Oh, blue must be their favourite colour!” whispered Mrs. Hyacinth, deeply moved. “But we mustn’t disturb them!”

All the children then had a chance to watch the cute baby rabbits from a distance before returning to their classroom. At the end of the activity, each

of the teams generously gave one of their eggs to Jacob and Emma, who jumped for joy!

THE END

JUDGE

(Continued from Page 4)

retiring judge that “your commitment to justice and fairness will not be forgotten” and that “we are committed to making sure that your work that you’ve invested here in Evesham continues.”

That comment was followed by Mayor Jacklyn “Jackie” Veasy telling Caplan that she also wanted to thank her for the time she had served as judge in Evesham and for everything she had done, and that “Councilwoman Cooper has said everything I would want to say.”

However, a subsequent speaker who had traveled a considerable distance for the purported purpose of following up on a still-ongoing municipal court case indicated to the council that she was anything but pleased with the way the matter involved had been approached by the prosecutor in Caplan’s courtroom.

SPEED

(Continued from Page 4)

with respect to what we find out, then we will have to take that up in the next couple months.”

The inspector later contributed to the meeting, asserting, “Mayor, I have a copy

Sharon Voss, of Fairfax Station, Va., who identified herself and her husband as employees of the Department of Defense with security clearances who have worked “over the past 18 years as both patrons and volunteers for rescue groups and animal shelters up and down the East Coast,” said they had made the trip to Evesham specifically “to address three animal cruelty charges we initiated” that were being handled by the prosecutor’s office.

The charges, Voss explained, had been filed against Lynn Mangano, the proprietor of Lynn’s Animal Rescue in the township who had employed an individual, Rebecca Halbach, the latter who was convicted back in January of animal cruelty, along with a second person, Brandon Leconey, in a much-publicized case involving the discovery by Voss’s husband of dozens of dead or severely malnourished dogs found on their Marlton property¬.

“As part of our continued effort to get justice for these dogs who were forced to suffer and die from neglect and abuse,” Voss

of all the site plans for the campsites that are up to date in my office.” He offered to provide them to the committee for their review.

“There have been no expansions or anything on it?” asked James, to which the inspector replied, “Not to my knowledge.”

The inspector then asked James, “Which campground are you talking about, sir?”

contended, “we hired a local attorney and worked with a local detective to file three criminal charges against Lynn Mangano,“ who she alleged had “indicated she knew animals in her care were being neglected by Halbach” and had done nothing to stop it for eight weeks.

To support these charges, Voss said she had supplied the Evesham Municipal Court with a “detailed evidence package,’ including video, audio and text, resulting in the judge having found “probable cause” to proceed with the case, but which the prosecutor had admittedly failed to review in preparation for evidence conferences in December and February. She further alleged that the prosecutor “then tried to contend he did not think there was a case to pursue against the rescue or its owner, all while making inaccurate, unfounded, negative assertions about evidence he had not even reviewed.”

Noting that the charges involved were scheduled for a court hearing the following day, Voss added that she did not know what message that might convey to

“We’ll discuss that later,” James responded.

The mayor asked the inspector whether the site plans that he has in his office are “dated,” to which he answered, “I know with Wading Pines, they just resurveyed it last year, so that was definitely up to date as far as it is.”

“And the other ones are just the same footprint,” he continued. “I don’t know how

the approximately 30,000 pet owners in Burlington County.

A subsequent check by this newspaper with the office of the county court clerk revealed that the case had been adjourned until April 24, at which time it was scheduled to be the subject of a “virtual proceeding.”

(One unrelated incident that involved such a proceeding occurred in Caplan’s courtroom last September, as reported on by this newspaper, when a Zoom video conferencing platform was reportedly hacked with pornographic images of “lewd sexual activity,” causing the judge, according to one source, “to (place) her hand over her face in horror as she watched helplessly.”)

According to Greenberg’s corporate bio, the township’s new judge is a 1990 graduate of The American University, and a 1994 graduate of Rutgers Law, Camden, and also serves as a municipal court judge in Camden County.

This newspaper could not confirm the official reason for Caplan’s departure.

many years they have been there.” It caused James to give an apparent clue as to which campground he was referring, when he asked, “Do we have an older copy of Wading Pines’ site plan?”

After the deputy mayor was informed by the inspector that he would have to “take a look,” James asserted, “That would be really interesting.”

SETTLEMENT

(Continued from Page 1)

that comprises 27 governmental agencies from the county.

Appearing in the case jacket on April 9 was a “STIPULATION OF DISMISAL WITH PREJUDICE,” signed by both attorneys for the plaintiff and defendant.

Bianchini, in recognizing on April 2 that the suit had “specifically” named both Tompkins and Hornickel, contended that the filing did so because they “failed to follow through with the harassment complaints of the plaintiff in accordance with the township ordinances and policies concerning sexual and occupational harassment allegations.”

“The township admonishes Jack K. Tompkins and former township administrator Daniel Hornickel for their actions and failure to take appropriate actions, which resulted in litigation initiated by Nicole Pittman,” said Bianchini in reading from the resolution that was ultimately unanimously approved by the five-member council, which has since gained some new members and become fully Republican-controlled during the course of the litigation.

Bianchini described his personal reluctance to vote in the affirmative, but maintained “the one thing that pushed me over the edge” is “a word used in the opinion made by the mediator, ‘indefensible.’”

The councilman went on to provide “my version of a definition” for “‘indefensible,’” contending “if this goes to court with a trial jury, we will lose.”

“And that $550,000 will double, maybe even triple, which is more of a hit to the taxpayers of Pemberton Township,” Bianchini contended.

The township having to pay $50,000 toward the settlement, or its insurance deductible, Bianchini maintained, is “not optimal,” but “we are getting off kind of cheap.”

“It is a lot better than paying $2 million or $3 million,” Bianchini declared.

It was a point emphasized in the resolution, or that “the township believes that it is in the long-term best interests of the township and its taxpayers to settle this litigation, including payment of $50,000 of taxpayer funds in order to avoid additional damages and costs, if the settlement is not finalized and trial by jury is to proceed.”

According to the resolution read aloud, the “township has been advised by its legal counsel that if the township does not agree to settle the litigation, not only will litigation continue, but the township may be exposed to additional costs and expenses, including a trial, punitive damages, violation of the law against discrimination, assessment of attorney’s fees, etc.”

“We don’t really want to do this, but it would only be worse for the town if we did not,” Councilman Harry Harper contended. “It would not be any worse for Jack Tompkins, or the previous business administrator. They are getting off scot-free.”

Councilman Dan Dewey claimed he raised to Township Attorney Jerry Dasti the prospect of putting “liens” against the “houses” of both Tompkins and Hornickel, but the solicitor had “told me better.”

Matthew A. Luber, an esquire with and managing partner of McOmber McOmber

& Luber, P.C., who represented Pittman in court, later told this newspaper in reaction to council’s decision, “We are proud of our client for standing up for herself and others. Hopefully this resolution allows her to move on from this difficult matter, though we will be closely monitoring the situation as she returns to work.”

Resident Patricia Guthrie, in anticipation that the council was going to settle the matter and in the wake of word of additional lawsuits pending, called on the council April 2 to “come up with an ordinance governing the employees, whether they are elected, appointed, or hired,” spelling out the “proper way a person is supposed to behave.”

“Because this lawsuit is not hurting the mayor, it is hurting the people, the residents who pay in taxes,” Guthrie maintained. “… I think it is important to not go around and hurt the people who are paying your wages.”

Dasti responded by pointing out that the township has an “indemnification ordinance.”

“Generally speaking, the ordinance protects employees who get sued while they are correctly doing what they are supposed to be doing in terms of the township,” Dasti said.

Previously, Dasti cited the example of a police officer who gets into an accident while on the job, and in raising the example again, described that the municipality “has insurance” which “defends the police officer because he was doing his job correctly and something happened.” However, Dasti further explained, the officer would not be covered if it was found that he was drunk while driving.

“In the case involving what is on the council’s agenda this evening, the former judge who mediated the case, a very wellknown judge, felt that the allegations in this case, which are not the same type of allegations in the other cases that are still pending, … are that the mayor did things incorrectly, but in his capacity as mayor,” Dasti claimed. “And Mr. Hornickel, who was then the BA, did things incorrectly because he didn’t follow our HR policies. The allegation was that a complaint was made by the plaintiff to the BA in that case, and our HR manual, if you will, and our ordinances, would have required some sort of an investigation, which was not done by the administrator. So, those were wrong actions taken, but still within the purview of their normal responsibilities.”

Bianchini, at one point during council’s April 2 proceedings, contended the “current number of lawsuits was at five, but as of today, it is six.”

This newspaper could not confirm that figure of lawsuits pending, but it has reported on some that are publicly known to be pending, also involving claims of sexual harassment and retaliation, including one filed by Chief Financial Officer Candice Pennewell in August 2024 and another by Community Development Director Rosemary Flaherty on April 1.

Resident Michelle Forman asked, “If he keeps having all these lawsuits, won’t the insurance group start increasing our insurance rates?”

It is a question that went unanswered during the proceedings, however.

This newspaper took Forman’s question to Paul Forlenza, executive director of the JIF. He was also asked by this newspaper, in

light of the additional lawsuits, whether the insurance company would drop its coverage provided to Pemberton altogether, or possibly demand the township indemnify against all other further suits brought against Pemberton involving the mayor and any business administrator.

“The BURLCO JIF has no comment on these matters due to ongoing litigation,” Forlenza replied.

Forman voiced opposition to the settlement of the Pittman suit, declaring, “The mayor must pay and let the chips fall where they will!”

Otherwise, she charged, “if he doesn’t have to pay,” it simply is “enabling him.”

“Why should we have to pay for his bad behavior?” she asked. “Horrible, horrible behavior!”

Guthrie, in calling for a new ordinance to be created setting guidelines for the behavior of township officials, insisted that it be crafted in such a way that if there are “three strikes, you’re out.”

“If you get counseled three times for things that were inappropriate, then you are gone, you are out of a job,” said Guthrie of what she would like to see created and enforced.

She pointed to her past experience in working for governmental agencies of various levels, in which if you were “counseled consecutively,” then “that was grounds for termination.”

“Well, there should be some kind of grounds for termination for the mayor, and if we had an ordinance that said that, especially in his case with all the stuff that he has done, he should have been terminated a long time ago,” Guthrie declared.

Councilman Perry Doyle, Jr., responded “we all have to understand one thing” or that Tompkins holds “an elected position.”

“And all you can do after that happens is hope that they stand up, and make the decisions, and do the right thing that they said they were going to do to get your vote,” Doyle said. “Obviously, in this case, it didn’t happen.”

Pittman’s lawsuit described an alleged incident that occurred at Pemberton’s concession stand in which “Mayor Tompkins apparently stated inappropriate comments during his visit” there. It went on to describe that Tompkins “made inappropriate sexual advances” towards a minor.

A subsequent council-ordered investigation described that the minor’s mother, also an employee of the township at the time, had declined to cooperate with the investigation, with the report emphasizing several individuals refused to come forward out of fear of retaliation, including the mother.

But a man by the name of Robert, who attended council’s April 2 session, demanded to know if the township had ever contacted the state Child Protection and Permanency Agency, now known as DCP&P (formerly DYFS).

“And if she is sexually harassed by her supervisor, especially in a government agency, I don’t see how that wouldn’t fall under an Institutional Abuse Investigation, and obviously turn into a criminal charge as well,” the man declared.

In recounting a provision of state law, the man cited, “Any person having a suspicion of a child abuse or neglect must report it to the agency,” before asking, “So, has anyone

done it?”

Dasti responded it was “my understanding” that “the allegation in the complaint, about the underage girl, was brought to the attention of the police department” and then the “police department sat down with Mom and Mom said, ‘We don’t want to go forward.’”

The man, who appeared to have familiarity with DYFS, responded, “It is not a choice like that, sir. With all due respect, it is not Mom’s decision either, or the police’s decision. It has to be reported, and then the decision is made by the division.”

The man said he would have already phoned DYFS himself, but he is a “third party,” causing Harper to respond the township is one as well, but the man disputed that, contending it is the township that “employed the victim.”

Doyle, a former township cop, maintained that even if the case was referred to the agency by police, “they would have to have a judge intervene, to do something, if they deemed it was necessary enough to do an interview without the parent’s consent.”

The exchange led Dewey to reveal that he met with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office over the alleged incident shortly after it came to light, and “we talked, and they personally handed it over to the New Jersey Attorney General.”

Harper then disclosed he has been calling the state Attorney General’s Office on a “monthly basis,” including over the past week leading up to the council session, and he keeps being given a “boiler plate” response that it is “an active and ongoing investigation.”

Harper said he has been further told by the state Attorney General’s Office, “We cannot comment until the investigation is complete.”

“And therefore, here we are with our hands tied,” Harper maintained. “We can’t do anything until the investigation (is done).”

A spokesperson with the state Attorney General’s Office, when later queried by this newspaper about whether there is an active investigation being carried out by its office, responded, “The Attorney General’s Office has a longstanding practice of neither confirming nor denying the existence of investigations.”

Harper on April 2 spoke of also having called the Governor’s Office prior to the latest council session, maintaining he learned “the governor has no power” to remove a mayor “unless it is a crime or becomes a criminal case.” (This newspaper previously reported that Democratic Governor Phil Murphy expressed that Tompkins should resign when the Pittman suit and ensuing council investigation report first emerged.)

“It is being looked at,” Haper assured the resident. “The wheels of justice turn slowly, unfortunately.”

The resident, however, contended “there are ways to deal with that bureaucracy.”

“And even though the Attorney General’s Office is the legal authority that brings charges, and so on, through DYFS, both criminally and civilly, it still hasn’t gotten to the agency itself who has to make that decision as to whether or not to go investigate,” said the man in pointing out, based on the responses he had received, the

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municipality, disability or other cause from attending to the duties of his office.”

Tompkins reportedly left the township for an overseas trip at the end of last week, according to various Pemberton councilmembers, and will be away for “a month,” according to Council President Joshua Ward.

Previously, when Tompkins or his predecessor, David Patriarca, were out of town, they delegated their duties to the township business administrator, with former Business Administrator Daniel Hornickel having served as acting township mayor on several occasions when he was employed by Pemberton.

But the township has been without a permanent business administrator since the beginning of September, when Hornickel jumped ship for an administrator role in Medford Township.

Tompkins initially wanted to hire Jerome Barberio for the Pemberton business administrator role, but then published reports came to light indicating he was an embattled figure in some of his previous governmental roles.

Council, instead, retained the services of Jersey Professional Management (JPM) for interim business administrator services in September 2024, with the firm sending Paula Cozzarelli to work for the township.

Cozzarelli, however, quit in November of last year, after just about two months on the job, though she claimed it was because of location.

Tompkins then appointed Richard E. Wright, Jr. to be a provisional business administrator in December, and pressed for his being hired permanently. But the council refused to approve Wright’s permanent appointment last December, having been reportedly set off by Tompkins having installed him in a provisional role without their knowledge.

Later, it was revealed that Tompkins had signed a contract with Wright, indicating extended employment, despite the Faulkner Act spelling out that all contracts have to first be approved by council before they are signed by the mayor.

Tompkins ultimately fired Wright during a Jan. 1 council reorganization meeting, which had turned into a public spectacle. Wright, who has since maintained he was fired for getting “too close to some things,”

SETTLEMENT

(Continued from Page 10)

police and state Attorney General’s Office were contacted, but not DYFS.

The man told the council, “do that one extra step” or what he believed amounted to “one more rock to turn over.”

“We will take that up,” pledged Council President Joshua Ward.

The final pages of the investigation report from the council-ordered investigation detail the limitations of Hornickel and township Human Resources in being able to investigate Tompkins, because in Pemberton’s form of government, that is who the employees report to, but that when a complaint involving the 16-year old

has been publicly contesting his firing, contending the authority to take such an action actually rests with the council, not the mayor.

While Wright’s position appears to be consistent with the Faulkner Act, any 90-day provisional period has now expired (Wright has acknowledged he was a provisional hire, despite the contract indicating extended employment).

Following all of these developments, council has so far refused to consent to the mayor’s appointment of a new candidate for the position, with at least one councilmember claiming other applicants were not being heard, and wanting everyone to be considered before a decision is reached.

Additionally, sources told this newspaper that the candidate at issue was also the subject of published reports that had raised some concerns.

It has not been said why the council has not continued a relationship with JPM in the interim, but Wright was affiliated with the group at the time of his being brought to Pemberton (he has since posted that he has separated from JPM).

Resident Marie Reynolds, during council’s April 2 session, inquired whether Tompkins has appointed an acting mayor while he is away, to which Councilman Matthew Bianchini recognized that Tompkins has appointed Director of Public Works Tom McNaughton, with confirmation of his acting mayorship being purportedly sent to council through a memorandum.

However, Bianchini added of McNaughton that “he is the acting mayor with zero authority.”

It led Reynolds to declare, “Oh my gosh –oh my gosh, that is a big deal!”

Bianchini further maintained that “Tompkins rewrote the statute on this whole thing and put him in the seat with no authority whatsoever.”

An evidently startled Reynolds asserted, “Wow, I am not sure I feel real safe about that,” questioning “aren’t there” obligations of a mayor, or acting mayor, in maintaining the functionality of the township government (particularly during an emergency).

All Bianchini could tell Reynolds on April 2 is that “we are looking into some things,” before repeating the allegation that Tompkins “left him (McNaughton) with no authority whatsoever.”

Reynolds responded that she hoped the public “was listening” and declared, “We really have to do something about the mayor,” to which Bianchini maintained he had no problem giving the public “the ugly.”

minor was brought to Hornickel, as cited in Pittman’s lawsuit, it was relayed to the police department, who in turn relayed it to the Prosecutor’s Office, but in turn had reportedly declined to investigate it further because it was viewed at the time as a “township employment matter.”

Based on Harper’s latest comments, it is unclear what has transpired since then.

However, when council accepted the 18page, single-spaced report, it had called for Tompkin’s resignation and referred the matter to the Police Department and/or county prosecutor.

Hornickel, when reached for comment on this story, declined to do so, maintaining he received nothing official yet pertaining to the approved settlement.

Guthrie, meanwhile, spoke on April 2

This newspaper later obtained the memorandum through an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request, with it signed by Tompkins and dated March 31.

“I will be out of the office starting April 3, 2025, and returning on May 5, 2025,” he wrote. “I am designating Thomas McNaughton, Director of Public Works as Acting Mayor pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:69A-42.”

But he added, “Mr. McNaughton is not authorized to sign: Any documents pertaining to selling or leasing township property, any documents pertaining to new hire or termination of employees, or any documents pertaining to the 2025 budget.”

It is not clear just how Tompkins can restrict the authorities of an acting mayor, given the powers that are delegated to an acting mayor are actually defined by the very state statute Tompkins quoted in his memorandum.

According to N.J.S.A. 40A:69A-42, or the Faulkner Act, under a Mayor-Council form of government, “the person so designated by the mayor” as an acting mayor “shall possess all the rights, powers, and duties of mayor,” with “all” being the key word.

Councilman Harry Harper, however, recounted that when Hornickel was made acting mayor in the spring of last year by Tompkins, he was given “full authority” at the time, before charging the public got to observe “some of the things that went on while he was in charge, signing things as acting mayor (an apparent reference to an authorization entailing an unpopular development project).”

“So, are we getting it worse or better?” Harper asked. “We are not sure.”

McNaughton could presumably end up in a difficult position if he defied the mayor’s memorandum.

Tompkins has not attended a meeting of township council since one held on March 5 (under the Faulkner Act, the mayor actually does not have to attend council meetings, though it has been a longstanding township tradition that they do).

That was when “Mr. Elly,” proprietor of Elly Premium Laundry at the Browns Mills Shopping Center (which is owned by Pemberton Township), spoke of his having received an eviction notice a mere couple days after he and his family had complained to council about a continuing leaking roof over his store, as well as the outage of an outdoor lamp where his unit is located.

Elly, who cast blame on the mayor for the notice, had experienced a medical emergency during that meeting, but Tompkins

of mandatory training she has previously experienced “to pretty much tell you how you are supposed to act when you are in a place of business,” questioning if mandatory training along those lines is statutorily required for Pemberton officials.

“We are all required to take these classes, especially the supervisors,” responded Pemberton Township Clerk Amy Cosnoski. “And we do take the classes, because the person in charge of tracking that, makes sure that we do.”

Cosnoski recounted having sent “numerous emails” because of scheduled “cyber training” and “safety training.”

It led Guthrie to ask if Tompkins was “included.”

“He is supposed to be,” answered Cosnoski, further acknowledging,

merely looked on, before departing the meeting early.

Tompkin’s actions during the medical emergency, as well as his purported refusal to sell the vacant Browns Mills Ambulance Squad building to Elly, despite council’s insistence that he sell it, led to council forcefully calling on Tompkins to resign that night, and several councilmembers proclaiming they would not authorize anything at the request of the mayor, moving forward, unless it was “to keep the town running.”

Councilman Perry Doyle, Jr., on April 2, described that McNaughton, if he was an acting mayor with fully delegated powers, “would be in a position for a month where we could absolutely move forward and get things done with the community, and get things done with all the departments.”

“However, removing all the powers a mayor has, such as hiring, firing, moving things forward with the budget and the other major things that are required by an administrator,” according to Doyle, means that McNaughton “can do none” of those aforementioned things.

Doyle, joining the April 2 council meeting by phone, while away himself, had his remarks summarized by Township Clerk Amy Cosnoski for those who couldn’t hear him, with the clerk stating, “Mr. McNaughton is not allowed to do anything regarding the budget or any personnel matters, hiring or firing” and Tompkins has “essentially taken all power away from Mr. McNaughton to do anything to help move the town forward during the mayor’s absence.”

Lionel Lee, with the Pemberton Township Democratic Club, in response to hearing “we have a mayor with no powers” and Tompkins is “not available,” asked council, “How are we conducting business right now?”

“Is there a mechanism for the township to continue to conduct business with those voids?” Lee also asked.

Township Solicitor Jerry Dasti called it a “rhetorical question,” to which Lee responded, “You answered enough.”

Lee then recognized the Republicans have won the last two municipal races and now have absolute control of council, before telling the councilmembers, “Hopefully, you have got a plan and we have got something that is going to still, in the midst of all this chaos, move the township forward because we still have problems out here, and I know you are well aware of them. So, you know, the game, I got to say doesn’t stop. And the

See CRISIS/ Page 12

“Whether he did or not is not something I can answer.”

Doyle ultimately spoke of a need to “minimize the damages that are going to be done to the township, to the residents, and especially to the employees.”

The councilman also spoke of a need to “shield and protect the residents” as well as “protect the employees from the misuse and the bad mistakes, and bad decisions, that are being made right now, that we have no control over.”

“We have to, unfortunately, do our best to try to stay one step ahead of him, and try to anticipate the poor decisions that are going to be made, before they are made, so that we can protect all of you,” Doyle said. “We are going to do our very best to be ready for the sunrises the next day.”

Browns Mills Baptist Church Pastor Maurice Mimms

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CRISIS

sun will come up tomorrow. We have got to figure something out.”

He called on the council to deliver “results” amid the “finger pointing” and ongoing “lawsuits.”

Residents took note at the April 2 meeting that every single seat at the administration desk was empty during the entirety of the council meeting, something that has not happened before in this newspaper’s coverage of township council meetings.

Tompkins, earlier this year, reportedly refused to sign off on department heads attending council meetings and interacting with council members. Under the MayorCouncil form of government, the mayor is to “supervise, direct and control all departments of the municipal government” and “the municipal council shall deal with employees of the department of administration and other administrative departments solely through the mayor or his designee.”

Council responded earlier this year by subpoenaing McNaughton, who complied with the request, with council later describing that it was a success, as it allowed their questions to be answered about Public Works equipment.

and get answers.

Reynolds asked on April 2, in light of Tompkins having “denied department heads the ability to come and attend,” based on prior public statements of officials, “how is it then that the council's questions are supposed to be answered?”

She further inquired that if Tompkins “is not here, and they can’t be here, is that impeding the work of the council in some way?”

Dasti called it “a rhetorical question,” and then maintained, despite Tompkins’ past public remarks, “I don’t know if the mayor has specifically demanded that department heads not be here,” adding he believed the mayor just wanted the questions to come to him to be relayed to the department heads.

It led Ward to respond, “What I can honestly say, is that with the five of us up here, if we have questions, I think the department heads are more than happy” to answer them. He went on to describe that “I think” the department heads would “feel safe enough” to “show up” to a council meeting if the council wanted them to come and answer its questions.

not pass until the mayor “presents a budget to council.”

It led Bianchini to proclaim, “the budget has been ready for about four months now, and it is being held up.”

“We don’t have a good reason why,” he said. “I have my own opinion on that, which I will not share here,” with Harper quipping, “I’d like to,” though he stopped short of doing so.

Councilman Dan Dewey further charged, “we don’t even have an approved budget, and they are spending money, you know?!”

The state Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has set an April 30 budget adoption deadline for state municipalities.

Last year, Pemberton didn’t pass its budget until late June, with the council previously calling on administration to make its preparations sooner this time around.

It is looking increasingly unlikely that the township will make the 2025 budget deadline given Tompkin’s absence this month, and a budget introduction having yet to occur.

he took an oath on a Bible to do certain things and not do certain things, and he obviously forgot every single thing he said that day,” declared Harper of Tompkins. “It’s just a shame.”

In response to deciding to settle the lawsuit, council unanimously passed a resolution “expressing its disapproval of Mayor Jack K. Tompkins and demanding his resignation.” But the council has insisted lately that it has done all it can to push Tompkins out.

Reportedly, in the wake of the unfolding situation in Pemberton, residents and local elected officials have been calling state agencies, as well as the offices of state lawmakers, pressing them for some form of intervention.

The state, according to a NJ Advance Media report in 2010, has previously taken over troubled government agencies, with a then-Seton Hall political scientist, Joseph Marbach, maintaining that “the constitution empowers the state to control local governments if it chooses to.”

Then, amid Tompkins’ March 19 council meeting absence, Community Development Director Rosemary Flaherty and Chief Financial Officer Candice Pennewell were seen at the administration desk, and answered questions, with council again describing it was great to be able to ask them questions

Previously, Harper described the mayor’s outright refusal to let the councilmembers interact with department heads. But Bianchini, on April 2, remarked, “so, Tompkins, I will not call him ‘mayor,’ has given myself and Mr. Harper the approval to speak to the director of Public Works.”

“That is an inroad right there,” Bianchini maintained.

The April 2 council session also included fallout from a $550,000 settlement that the council authorized over a lawsuit filed by Recreation Director Nicole Pittman against the township, Tompkins and Hornickel (see separate story), alleging sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation was being directed at Pittman.

Pittman’s suit is now one of a multitude of pending legal filings.

Harper spoke of his contacting both the state Attorney General’s Office and Governor’s Office to elicit their help in the matter.

In South Jersey, the state most notably took over a then-troubled Camden City in 2002, appointing a chief operating officer with veto power over the local government, according to the media outlet. The following year, it took over the police department by order of the attorney general.

Later in the April 2 council meeting, council was asked to approve a professional services contract for a Sewer Rate Cost Analysis, but Harper maintained it should

“The Department of Community Affairs, specifically the Division of Local Government Services, does not have the authority to take control over a municipality without express authority granted by law,” Lisa Ryan, a spokeswoman for the DCA, told this newspaper on April 8 when asked about

(Continued from Page 11) See CRISIS/ Page 15

“Let’s all remember a little over two years ago, he stood up here before everybody, and

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whether state intervention in Pemberton is a possibility or consideration. “In Pemberton Township’s case, DCA does not have

SHAMONG

(Continued from Page 8)

Wilkinson also wanted readers to know he co-founded (with Suzanne Buckley) PawsCause.org in 2021, to keep animals out of shelters during COVID, or so that people would not give up their animals to shelter during the difficult economic time, and that he believes he is the only committeeman who does not take a salary, rather he “donates my entire stipend to the charity, Paws Cause, and gives it back to the community.”

Di Croce, a Shamong-based lawyer in his day job, was asked, as both a past and current

SOUTHAMPTON

(Continued from Page 7)

and said that he has recommended up to $14 million in capital spending to the committee. He and the committee, he further maintained, have roughly six months to re-evaluate whether the township should go further in its capital improvement plan.

A PowerPoint presentation that he showed the public pointed out that any additional $8.5 million would be to “revitalize township properties – principally here at the municipal complex.”

Also, it is not set in stone whether the committee will bond, or choose BANs, the latter a form of temporary financing which needs to be renewed annually, however

statutory authority to do so.”

Harper, on April 2, told concerned residents at one point “we are not going to let the town stop running,” further vowing, “We are going to do everything in our power to keep the town running.”

Resident Tracey L. Ricciardelli, in response to the latest developments, asked

candidate for elected office, if anyone can come in and just use the slogan, “Shamong Regular Republican Organization,” to which he replied, “Well, I don’t think so.”

“I think you have to have permission of that organization,” he said. “They actually have that trademark.”

The Burlington County Republicans, he further maintained, “are the ones who own that slogan.”

Yet, Di Croce told this newspaper, “I quite frankly, never even liked that saying” and it “wouldn't have been a slogan that I would choose” as “I don’t think it is particularly helpful to be a ‘regular’ Republican.”

“But it is what it is,” he said.

Umba stated if the township went with the large figure, it would look to capitalize on low interest rates and fund the project as a bond.

As to just how exactly the taxes could remain flat with the level of spending called for in the proposed capital plan, Umba declared, “the simplest way to put it is every year the township, for the last decade, has paid roughly $1.26 million in debt service” and “those payments disappear at the end of 2026.”

“Well, what does $1.2 million or $1.26 million equate to annually?” Umba continued. “It is that $16 million bonding power which would be spread out to those annual payments.”

He noted it would most likely be over a 20year period.

“That means the debt service will only be roughly $1.2 million annually for the

about the possibility of changing Pemberton’s form of government under the Faulkner Act, some of which delegate lesser powers to the mayor and give the council more authority. Ward responded that with a “5-0 vote, you can actually put it on the ballot as a referendum for the next time around to potentially change the form of government.”

Township Clerk Susan Onorato, who confirmed Wilkinson’s March 24 filing, told this newspaper that the challenge was a “little past” the deadline for making one in her opinion, and that while she is not exactly sure where it would fall between her office and the county, given the timing of the challenge (with Onorato having told this newspaper if it had occurred earlier, her office might have been in a better position to handle it), after some research, it was decided to “put it in the hands of the county.”

Onorato, who said something like this had “never” happened before in Shamong, added she has not received, as of April 9, any confirmation from the county that

next 20 years, which is what the township has historically been paying annually,” Umba said.

Southampton’s introduced general operating budget for 2025 is $7,868,947, with $4,314,574 to be raised through taxation.

The municipal local tax rate for 2025 will remain at $0.435, and a home at the township average of $189,284 will pay $823.01 in local purpose taxes, a decrease of 38 cents from last year.

Umba observed that taxes could stay flat for several years, with additional revenue being generated through Pilots and other anticipated revenue sources.

“I would say that the catchphrase of this budget is that it is maintaining all services that Southampton has come to enjoy,”

He added the township “would only qualify for three out of the entire seven” possible forms of government.

“So, I would say everybody should study up on the forms of government,” Ward told the public. “…I think council will make a good decision sooner rather than later on, you know, what we are doing with that.”

Wilkinson’s slogan has been approved, and that her office may not know until “once the ballots get finalized.”

Additionally, when asked if the slogan at issue had ever been used before in Shamong, Onorato responded, “not to my knowledge.”

According to the County Clerk’s Office website, Di Croce and Southwick have the slogan, “Burlington County Republican Committee,” while Wilkinson, running on his own, has a slogan of, “Shamong Regular Republican Organization - Experience Matters.” Wilkinson said he “spoke to the deputy county clerk last Friday and he advised me, at that point, they were not removing that slogan.”

Umba told this newspaper. “But also, we are now looking at our management of capital to enhance our services, such as with the DPW enhancements, the emergency services enhancements and enhancements to township properties. It is allowing us to expand those services that Southampton has come to expect and, and still keep the taxes flat, if not at a manageable level.”

Umba will deliver the same budget presentation to the public at Southampton’s April 15 meeting, which will be ahead of this year’s budget public hearing.

During the committee’s March 18 public comment section, one local, Valerie Roohr, expressed her disapproval of the committee entering the warehouse race, even if it results in financial benefits for the township’s bottom line.