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Residents press township over Recreation Committee reappointments, electric fence and marina ownership
Summary
At the Jan. 15 meeting, volunteers and residents raised concerns about two volunteers removed from the Parks and Recreation Committee, alleged text messages from a deputy mayor, a potentially electrified fence in the right-of-way, and a suggestion to convert recently quit-claimed marina properties to public use.
Residents used both public-comment periods at the Maurice River Township Committee meeting on Jan. 15 to press elected officials for clarity about volunteer reappointments, right-of-way safety and public access to waterfront property.
Brittany Campbell and Jessica Humphreys said they were removed from the Township’s Recreation Committee and asked the Committee for a written explanation. Cassidy Camp read text messages she received from Deputy Mayor Joe Sterling and said she stepped down after that exchange. Camp also asked for a follow-up on purchases she said are not visible in the budget report — a gaga ball pit, bleachers and swing seats. Deputy Clerk Ashlee Leith replied that the items have been ordered but not yet received; Deputy Mayor Sterling said the gaga pit had arrived.
Kevin Langley of Milmay raised a separate safety concern, saying a fence that appears to be in the public right-of-way is electrified and could pose a hazard to children. Solicitor Justin White explained that placement in a right-of-way does not automatically make a structure unlawful and noted that agricultural properties may have exemptions; he also advised that complaints about agricultural practices or zoning nuisances can be pursued through the county agricultural board. Officials said a property survey would be required to establish definitive boundaries.
George Kumor urged the Township to consider converting two marina properties that were quit-claimed to the Township — the former Berry Marina and Johnny Gale Marina — into public fishing access or parkland. The Committee did not take action on that suggestion at the meeting.
Vaughn Hulitt and John Campbell, representing the Maurice River Township Recreation Association, asked for a more consistent line of communication with Township officials so volunteers and the association can coordinate events and facilities. Deputy Mayor Sterling said he plans to work with both the Association and the Parks and Recreation Committee to improve communications.
No formal policy changes or personnel actions were taken at the Jan. 15 meeting; several subjects raised by residents were referred for follow-up or clarification.
