Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Redevelopment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Montgomery introduces redevelopment plan for Block 4020 Lot 1; residents urge EMS and volunteer fire funding
Summary
The Montgomery Township Committee introduced Ordinance 25‑1750 to adopt a redevelopment plan for Block 4020, Lot 1 and scheduled a public hearing for April 17, 2025. Public commenters backed the plan but urged the township to protect funding for volunteer fire districts and EMS, citing capacity concerns.
The Montgomery Township Committee introduced Ordinance 25‑1750 on first reading to adopt the Block 4020, Lot 1 redevelopment plan and set a public hearing for April 17, 2025.
Supporters who addressed the committee during public comment said they back the redevelopment but pressed for protections for emergency services and volunteer fire districts if the project uses payment‑in‑lieu‑of‑taxes (PILOT) arrangements. “I fully support this… but I would encourage you to make sure that volunteer organizations such as our fire districts … get the full percentage of what would be taxed,” said Deborah Keenan, who identified herself with the local historical society. Keenan urged the township to consider paying for insurance and equipment for fire and EMS services.
Chris Newman of Skillman also voiced support for the development but warned local emergency services are strained. “The EMS is already stretched thin and they need all the help they can get,” Newman said, noting the development discussed would have about 196 units and urging the committee to prioritize EMS support in the upcoming budget.
Clerk and staff presentations accompanying the ordinance noted the item was being introduced for first reading; a motion to introduce the ordinance carried on a unanimous roll call vote of present committee members. The public hearing is scheduled for the township’s April 17 meeting, when residents will have another opportunity to comment before a final vote.
Why it matters: The redevelopment plan will shape density and local service demands where the project is sited. Speakers at the meeting framed the debate around community impacts — especially the capacity of volunteer EMS and fire districts — and asked that any revenue‑sharing arrangements from redevelopment explicitly address those service needs.
What’s next: The committee will hold a public hearing on April 17, 2025, before any final action on Ordinance 25‑1750.
