The reorganization meeting and regular council meeting were held this week.
Medford Township held its annual reorganization meeting and regular council meeting this week, with the swearing in of the mayor and deputy mayor for 2019.
Chuck Watson was elected mayor for another term, while Frank Czekay was named deputy mayor by the rest of the council (the position was previously held by Brad Denn).
Watson and Czekay were sworn in by township manager Kathy Burger, and their terms will expire on Dec. 31.
As the regular meeting began, Burger stated the second round of leaf collection has been completed in zones 1, 2 and 4. Leaf collection is currently taking place in zone 3, which will be completed within the week, and zone 5 will be completed within the next two weeks.
Burger noted leaf collection has been taking longer than usual this year, since they did not extend their contract with the leaf collection contractor past Dec. 19 and the township employees have been taking over that responsibility.
Christmas tree collection will begin on Jan. 28, where trees can be taken out with residents’ trash to be collected — all ornaments and Christmas tree stands must be removed prior to being placed outside for pick up.
The council discussed vacancies on the economic development commission. According to the township website, the commission assists council in the “development and maintenance of a positive business environment.”
The website states some of the goals include creating a business friendly atmosphere, developing an image of Medford as a desirable place to live, work and play, and maintaining a close working relationship with the Medford Business Association, township planning and zoning professionals, the Burlington County Office of Economic Development, various state agencies and more.
The commission is currently made up of four members. There are seven spots that can be filled, however, there is no language in place that is requiring those vacancies to be filled.
The council agreed an ordinance should be in place with the language “up to seven members,” opposed to limiting the commission to four members. Watson said this will allow people who are interested in this commission to join.
The next regular council meeting will be held on Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Public Safety Building located at 91 Union St.
