Monroe council held its monthly meeting on Oct, 26 and discussed new and existing businesses throughout the township.

Both Mayor Richard DeLucia and Shannon Morgan-Leonen, Economic Development Commission chair, reported on businesses that are applying for permits and seeking information about setting up in Monroe Township.

“There’s a couple reasons you want to bring new businesses,” said DeLucia. “One is the convenience for the people who live here and can shop here, and the other is revenue.”

“It’s great for the town, it’s going to bring a lot of revenue and jobs,” added  Morgan-Leonen.

Some of the businesses discussed included The Learning Experience, which had a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov 2.; construction of the White and Blue painting company headquarters building; and a drive-through safari coming to the Black Horse Pike.

“Developers want to hear they are coming to do business with a group of people that are business-friendly,” DeLucia noted. “We have done that, and we have made it clear that we are not here to deter businesses but to be business friendly.“

An assisted living facility is coming that will bring $328 million dollars and 400 jobs to the township. The project will include three phases: assisted living with a mix use, long-term care and housing prior to assisted living.

“I think the future looks bright and I think we are moving forward,” DeLucia said. “Economic development is something that is going to happen.”

Councilwoman Kristine Falcone also said at the meeting that businesses can receive small grants due to COVID-19 that will come through the  New Jersey Economic Development Authority. The grants will go to restaurants, then micro-businesses, then other businesses in need of assistance.

Businesses seeking a move to Monroe Township can visit https://monroetownshipnj.org and click on the Economic Development tab for more information.

In other news:

• The housing department in the township municipal building will be closed for another seven days due to a COVID-positive contact.

• The senior tax freeze was sent out late on Oct 15, and residents who have not received it should expect arrival within the next week. The deadline to apply for a senior tax freeze was extended to Dec 31. To apply, call or visit the municipal tax office.

• According to DeLucia, no one will receive a homestead rebate until May of 2021 due to COVID-related issues.

• A bid of $2.3 million was awarded for road projects starting in April to lay fresh asphalt.

• Groundbreaking for Owen’s Dog Park will start early next year.

• The next council meeting will be on Monday, Nov 9, at 8 p.m.