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JUNE 10, 2026 TOMS RIVER TOWNSHIP COUNCIL MEETING
Published: Jun 10, 2026
Toms River Addresses Police Staffing and Vehicle Needs Amidst Public Safety Concerns
Discussions revolved around the police department's staffing and resources. It was noted that six new police officers were hired, with five expected to start soon, aimed at filling all positions to maximum capacity. This hiring initiative is seen as crucial due to an 'extraordinarily high' accident rate involving pedestrians and bikers, and a perceived shortage of police officers. Concerns were raised by residents about the decrease in police officers from 2024 to 2026, questioning the necessity of purchasing new vehicles when the force is not at full capacity. The mayor defended the purchase of new vehicles as replacements for an aging fleet and stated that the new vehicles are more reliable and comfortable for officers. The color of the police vehicles (black vs. white) and the cost of painting roofs also became a point of contention and discussion.
Toms River Introduces 2026 Budget with Flat Tax Rate and Increased Surplus Utilization
The Township Council introduced and discussed the 2026 municipal budget, which features a flat municipal tax rate maintained since 2024. The budget includes a significant utilization of surplus funds, reaching $17.5 million, to stabilize taxes and fund capital projects. A resolution to amend the introduced budget for reclassification purposes was also presented. Key capital projects funded include paving over 15 miles of roads, installing tide check valves to reduce flooding in over 70 roadways, new playground equipment at multiple parks, and ongoing boardwalk and streetscape projects at Ortley Beach. Debt service has decreased by approximately $3.26 million year-over-year. The municipal portion of taxes constitutes 21% of the average tax bill, with schools receiving 55% and the county 21%. The total property tax burden for an average assessed home of $450,600 is $9,561.73.
Toms River Meeting Marred by Disruptions, Accusations of Lacking Transparency, and Conduct Concerns
Throughout the meeting, there were significant discussions and public comments highlighting a breakdown in communication, transparency, and decorum. Residents and some council members voiced concerns about the mayor's leadership, personal attacks, and lack of transparency regarding budget details and decision-making processes. Issues included the handling of the municipal budget, the mayor's alleged control over council decisions, the process for hiring police officers, the management of public information on the township website, and the perceived lack of employee oversight. The live stream feed of the meeting was repeatedly cut off, leading to accusations of suppressing public input and undermining transparency. A lawsuit regarding the live feed was mentioned, with a preliminary hearing ruling in favor of the mayor's right to cut the feed, though this is subject to further litigation. The conduct of the meeting, including interruptions and personal remarks, was frequently criticized as undignified and embarrassing. Council members also discussed their completion of mandatory state training on the Faulkner Act and municipal governance, with disagreements arising about whether the course met state requirements and whether all council members had equal opportunity to attend.
Toms River Council Approves Affordable Housing Initiatives, Amends Zoning for New Units
The Township Council held a first reading for an ordinance to amend the Highway Business-Multifamily (HBMF) zone to generate four affordable housing units by adding two floors to an existing two-story retail and commercial structure at 2008 Route 37. This amendment is part of the township's efforts to meet its affordable housing obligations. The development would result in four affordable units within a larger project. The ordinance was approved despite concerns about setting a precedent and potential impacts on surrounding areas. A second ordinance, also related to affordable housing, involved a pilot extension for the Crimeland Plaza development, extending deed controls for existing affordable units and involving a $1.32 million township contribution from the affordable housing trust fund. Another ordinance involved amendments to the EMF23 multifamily zone for the Jamestown Village development, aiming to generate 42 affordable units (28 new construction and 14 converted existing units). This plan was presented as a way to meet state mandates and avoid a 'builder's remedy' lawsuit, with negotiations leading to a reduced number of new units.
Toms River Council Grapples with Budget, Transparency, and Conduct Amidst Contentious Meeting
The council engaged in a lengthy discussion regarding the 2026 municipal budget, including presentations from auditors and responses to public questions. Key points included the flat municipal tax rate, significant utilization of surplus funds, and funding for capital projects. A major point of contention was the alleged lack of transparency and the mayor's perceived control over decision-making, with residents and some council members questioning budget details, salary increases, and the allocation of funds. The conduct of the meeting itself, marked by disruptions, personal attacks, and accusations of improper procedures, overshadowed many of the policy discussions. Several residents expressed dismay at the overall governance and atmosphere of the meetings.
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The Toms River News archive
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