Cherry Hill council approved a number of action items at its Feb. 13 meeting, including the purchase of replacement weapons, holsters and accessories and three drones for the police department.
“This is for the replacement of our handguns,” explained Police Chief Robert Kempf. “We are just about 10 years at the end of life. We can no longer get parts to service these, so we started the process about a year and a half ago to evaluate the best manufacturer, the best weapon system, and that’s where it led us to.”
The chief noted that his department will get some of its money back when the wholesaler they bought from buys back its old weapons.
During the meeting’s caucus, Kempf also touched on the drone program started about six years ago and clarified that the new devices will not have facial recognition technology.
“(Drones) have been a huge resource for us for missing persons, community events,” Kempf explained. “We really have found that they have become a critical part of the department, so this is the next generation of that.
“The tech has kind of gotten caught up, so now, they do mapping for serious motor-vehicle events,” he added. “It will save time and give more comprehensive investigation of serious or fatal accidents, as well as doing 3D imaging of buildings.”
Council also approved an ordinance on first reading to acquire easements for a new traffic signal light at Evesham and Burnt Mill roads. They are necessary because the light would take up more space than the previous one.
Another ordinance approved on first reading amends a previous measure and clarifies fees set forth for the use of police officers and vehicles outside employment, such as when they perform security, traffic control and other police-related duties.
Council also presented the Cherry Hill African American Civic Association with a proclamation in honor of Black History Month recognizing its history and contributions to the town, including an inaugural celebration of Juneteenth in 2021.
During her remarks, Mayor Susan Shin Angulo acknowledged February as American Heart Month and encouraged residents to explore some of the programs offered through the recreation department.
“Our recreation department offers a variety of classes, programs all year around to help you stay active,” she pointed out. “Take a look through all the programs or classes offered by the township, make plans to try out for some of them, whether it’s signing up for a workout class, volunteering …
“Check out our website: there are so many to offer and choose from.”
The mayor also reminded residents that homeowners and tenants who owned or rented in 2019 may be eligible for the New Jersey Anchor Benefit, previously known as the homestead benefit. Deadline to apply for that and the RISE (Recovery and Investment for a Stronger Economy) grant is Feb. 28.
The next council meeting will be on Monday, Feb. 27, at 7:30 p.m.
