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Florence considers park cameras, e-bike limits and police vehicle and firearms upgrades
Summary
Township Administrator Thomas Sahol sought Council input on inviting the Joint Insurance Fund for a renewal presentation and described proposals to trial movable park cameras, consider targeted e-bike restrictions, and replace two police pursuit vehicles and aging service firearms.
At the Florence Township Council meeting on May 20, 2026, Township Administrator Thomas A. Sahol briefed council members on several public-safety and operations items the administration is preparing for Council consideration.
Sahol said the Township’s membership in the Joint Insurance Fund of Burlington County is up for renewal; Florence is a founding member of that 26-municipality pool since 1991 and Council agreed to invite the JIF for a presentation during an upcoming executive-session meeting. Sahol also described a proposal to deploy movable, trailer-style cameras in township parks and at event locations to deter disruptive behavior, to monitor construction sites and to support enforcement where speed or crowd issues arise. Council member Gina Sullivan asked whether the devices could be deployed to streets where speeding is a problem, pairing them with existing flashing speed signs; Sahol said combining the devices could be effective.
On e-bikes, Sahol reported staff are examining ordinances used elsewhere, citing an example from Evesham Township that restricts e-bikes on natural (dirt) trail segments to avoid trail damage but still allows them on paved paths. Solicitor Robert Wright said Evesham’s concern centered on trail erosion and safety for hikers on unpaved trails. Sahol noted that a broad prohibition could conflict with the intent of the regional Heritage Trail and that any restriction may need to be narrowly tailored to specific parks or trail segments.
Sahol also discussed police department equipment and staffing: he said two pursuit-rated vehicles have been identified for replacement this year after an eight-year-old vehicle suffered an engine failure that could cost about $15,000 to repair. He said staff will seek authorization to purchase two Ford pursuit-rated SUVs and that the department is actively recruiting and expects to hire about four to five new officers. Sahol added that the department plans to replace 12-year-old service firearms and transition to a less costly caliber with modern optic sights; Council was told a memo on the firearms proposal will be presented to members soon.
Council President Joseph Frappolli said it is useful to see what other communities are doing and supported allowing the Township to adapt policies over time. No formal action was taken; Council requested follow-up information and the JIF presentation date will be scheduled.
