Haddonfield honors officers, reviews summer public-safety numbers and advances new police headquarters grant application

Commissioners recognized six members of the Haddonfield Police Department with certificates of commendation and reviewed department activity in the 2024 summer report.

The Police Chief reported 1,553 department calls and 178 motor-vehicle stops this reporting period; 58% of stops resulted in a summons and the department issued 399 summonses in total (78% for parking, 22% for moving violations). The Chief noted one burglary was recorded and answered a resident’s question by saying the theft reports included "bikes, shoplifting, and other minor thefts." The Fire Department reported 58 fire calls (five mutual-aid) and 95 EMS calls (34 mutual-aid) and noted increased mask-wearing amid rising COVID cases.

Separately, commissioners authorized the Borough to sign an Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a Community Facilities Grant (Funding Opportunity 10.766) to support police technology and systems related to a planned new police headquarters. Mayor Bianco Bezich told residents the groundbreaking for the new police building is anticipated in October, with construction expected to take about eight to 12 months.

Communications staff highlighted local publicity: the Communications Officer said Good Morning America filmed in Haddonfield on July 4 and the segment generated more than 10 million views, a point officials said benefits local businesses.

The meeting record shows the grant-authorization motion was made by Commissioner Troy, seconded by Mayor Bianco Bezich, and approved unanimously.