5 Things You Need to Know: Township Committee Close Out Meeting

With the township committee close out meeting held in the middle of the day on Friday, not too many residents were able to show up. If you were one of those who wanted to be at the meeting, but couldn’t make it because of work, school or previous engagements—Patch has you covered.

Here are the five things you need to know about the close out committee meeting:

1) Mayor Raymond Chintall announced that treasurer Richard Giuliani would begin his retirement effective Jan. 1. Chintall joked that he hoped Giuliani’s golfing game improves during his retirement. Addressing the audience, Giuliani said that his 27 years and 10 months at West Deptford had been very enjoyable.

Later in the meeting, it was learned that the township would have no treasurer or assistant treasurer as of Jan. 1. A resolution to temporarily fill Giuliani’s seat, later led to much debate and discussion from the entire committee. Full story can be found on West Deptford Patch.

2) Chintall commended efforts by West Deptford to raise money for Superstorm Sandy relief through the American Red Cross. He explained that the township raised a total of $1,000. The money was delivered to the American Red Cross by Miss West Deptford, Michelle Danze.

In addition, the  provided for 30 families in need in West Deptford this year. Chintall said through generous donations families were provided with a turkey dinner and warm clothing for the winter.

3) A resolution cancelling the unexpended balances of appropriation and appropriation to the water and sewage within the 2012 municipal budget was passed unanimously. Treasurer Richard Giuliani explained that the township is currently in a plus balance, so there will be no raise in water and sewer rates until March 31, although the township plans to raise rates in April.

4) A resolution to approve the transfer of funds for the purpose of appropriation within the 2012 Municipal Budget passed unanimously. Surpluses will be moved from one account to another within the budget. The transfers were necessary due to unexpected expenses, such as snow removal.

5) During public comment, resident David Sileo inquired as to whether there had been any discussion about school safety in West Deptford, following the events at Sandy Hook Elementary. Police Chief Craig Mangano explained that while there is no way to prepare for every situation, the school district will begin locking classroom doors during instruction time and will thoroughly check everyone who wants to enter the school. Mangano also confirmed that there is a resource officer who visits all of the schools in the district. 

Sileo commended the police department and the township, saying he has always felt safe in West Deptford.