Kean Advocates For $1.6 Million In Federal Funding For Bernards Township Police

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) is advocating for $1,626,100 in federal funding for the Bernards Police Department.

Ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion, Kean toured the Bernards Township Police Department to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities.

"I will continue to advocate for the return of as many federal funds as possible to the Bernards Township Police Department," said Kean. "This funding for Bernards Township has already passed the House Appropriations Committee. With these resources, local police officers will be able to upgrade their radio communication system, significantly enhancing their ability to communicate and coordinate deployments. This investment is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of this community."

"The Bernards Township Police Department appreciated meeting and speaking with Congressman Tom Kean, Junior," said Chief of Bernards Township Police Department Jon Burger. "We appreciate the support he provides the community and law enforcement."

The funding would be used for improving the communications capabilities of the Township Police Department and partner emergency response agencies within the Township, which provide for direct radio contact and allow the police to more effectively communicate and facilitate deployment.

Bernards Township Mayor Jennifer Asay said she was grateful for Kean's support.

"In February, he hosted a Crime Roundtable webinar where I was a panelist and learned from my fellow panelists and the Congressman collective concerns and where to partner to develop solutions to protect residents," said Asay.

This funding is part of Kean's 15 submissions for Community Project Funding(CPF) FY2025. Each member of Congress may only submit 15 CPF projects to the Appropriations Committee for consideration. Of those 15, not all 15 will be successfully funded. To view Kean's full list of submissions, click HERE.

CPF is a process that allows Members of Congress to request direct funding for projects that benefit the communities they represent. This process includes robust eligibility, ethics, and transparency guidelines and is only available to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, as well as some non-profits.

Additionally, only projects with evidence of strong support from the community will be considered, and evidence of this support and community need is required as part of the congressman's submission.