Cherry Hill sure does recycle.
Mayor Cahn announced at the Monday, Oct. 22 council meeting that the township had received a tonnage grant for more than $140,000 based on the amount of recycling.
“It’s the eighth largest grant in the state,” said Cahn.
The grant came at the helm of Gov. Christie releasing the recycling efforts for the past year, Cahn said.
“This is wonderful news, and, in my mind, is proof that doing the right thing really does pay off,” he said in a statement. “We save money for every ton of material that we keep out of our landfills and incinerators, and now we’re actually bringing in revenue in the form of this grant. It’s a win for the township, our residents, and, of course, the environment.”
According to a release, the grant is part of New Jersey’s Recycling Enhancement Act (REA). Cherry Hill was one of 10 municipalities throughout the state whose grant was greater than the REA taxes paid with a recycling rate of 66 percent.
The state average is about 40 percent.
Questions from residents can be directed to the Department of Public Works at (856) 424–4482 or online at www.CherryHill-NJ.com, said the release.
Community concerns
Resident Phil Guerrieri led a group of concerned citizens who spoke during public comment about an ordinance draft. The proposed ordinance focuses on bringing issues such as the Camden Metro Police Department to taxpayers before implementation.
Four residents read from sections of the draft.
“We want something in writing, if you will, that will assure us,” said Guerrieri.
Cahn said that he wants a chance to read the ordinance and expressed his opinions, echoed by the entirety of council, regarding the metro department.
A regionalized police force may work for some towns, but not Cherry Hill, he said.
“We don’t need it. We don’t want it,” he said, and for as long as he is mayor, it will not happen.
To reiterate, Cahn said there are also no plans for the township to merge with any surrounding towns.
“My door is always open and I invite you in,” he said.
Councilman Jim Bannar, a former fire department member, said that he has lived in the township for 46 years and would not do anything to jeopardize resident’s safety.
“Safety is number one,” agreed Councilwoman Susan Angulo.
Council appreciation
Several members of council expressed their appreciation to the community for participating in town events including the Harvest Festival, which was held on Sunday, Oct. 21 at Croft Farm, and various senior events.
“Our pumpkin patch was great,” said Councilwoman Sara Lipsett.
The festival, she said, was a “wonderful display of our community.”
Council President David Fleisher mentioned the upcoming welcome home to troops that many community members participate in on Thanksgiving.
“It’s just a wonderful way to truly celebrate Thanksgiving,” he said.
Next meeting
The next meeting of the Cherry Hill council is set for Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the municipal building.
