Economic development is the talk of the town

A new megastore is coming to Washington Township thus solidifying Mayor Joann Gattinelli’s efforts to transform the municipality’s economic structure.

Nancy Mozzachio, the township’s economic development consultant, said the store “at home” is under construction in the former “Dump” space on the Black Horse Pike.

“This nationwide retailer is expected to generate great local and regional traffic, solidifying Washington Township as a great retail destination,” Mozzachio said.

She added a few other stores, like Chipotle and a new Rizzieri’s salon and spa, are also in the works for Washington Township. There could be even more, but Mozzachio is cautious to drop any names.

“Although it’s enticing, I am careful to wait until businesses go through the full approval process before any announcements occur,” she said. “If it’s important to note, we’re tracking activity which will eat up some of the vacancy along the Black Horse Pike. In addition with our focus on improving the Black Horse Pike, I can announce the addition of a newly sold consumption liquor license which will enhance a beloved restaurant along the Pike as well as the proposed retrofit of a vacant building along the Black Horse Pike for a restaurant.”

She continued, noting Gattinelli and she hosted a Washington Township Chamber of business lunch that outlined what Washington Township has to offer to new businesses. The economic board has met 13 times since Mozzachio’s tenure began in Washington Township.

“We will continue these efforts to stand out and be a conduit to businesses which need and expect those services from us,” she said. “We’ve forged a very strong board, very collaborative group, we’re very much focused on everyday excellence to bring best practices to bring businesses and attract businesses to our town.”

In other news:

•  Gattinelli named William Scola “Employee of the Month.” Scola works as an auto mechanic with the police department.

“I’ve heard nothing but great feedback from our police department that you get all the cars out in a timely manner, everything is clean and done properly. We want to thank you for all you do, all the hard work you put into it really shows,” Gattinelli said.

•  With complaints to the public works department growing, Gattinelli addressed the proper way to dispose of paint. Instead of placing a wet paint can in the trash can, allow the paint to set before doing anything. This can be done by leaving the can open or mixing something like kitty litter in the can. This is an easy way to avoid paint stains in the streets.
•  Gattinelli also reminded residents of the veteran wall that is coming to the municipal building’s council room. The wall is set to honor Washington Township residents, past and current, who have served in times of conflict or peace.

“Washington Township is proud of our veterans and we want to acknowledge their dedication and sacrifice,” Gattinelli said.

To apply, contact business administrator Jason Gonter at (856) 589-0520 ext. 239. Applications are due by Aug. 15.

•  The Washington Township Police Department’s K-9 benefit car show is scheduled for Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Washington Lake Park. There is no pre-registration, registration runs until noon the day of the show. There is a $20 entry fee and more than 150 trophies will be awarded.
•  The next council meeting is scheduled for Aug. 21 at 7 p.m. at the municipal building. This meeting is open to the public.