Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Comment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press township on Godfrey House safety and records; solicitor warns speaker
Summary
During public comment residents raised safety concerns at the Godfrey House rehabilitation site and alleged misconduct and denied records; the township solicitor warned a speaker to be careful about her statements; officials noted contractor progress and available OEM storm plans.
Several New Hanover residents used the public-comment period on March 10 to press the township for information about the Godfrey House rehabilitation and to raise community-safety concerns.
Kellie Bowden asked for an update on work at the Godfrey House and expressed worry about unsupervised underage children riding golf carts on Donal Lane. Administrator/Clerk Susan Jackson and Mayor Peterla described ongoing work at the property and progress by the contractor. Chief Tuliano said county Office of Emergency Management plans are in place and available for public review at the office for those concerned about storm preparedness.
Resident Megan Brindl said maple sales held at the Godfrey House raised $255 and urged a fence be erected during construction for safety. Brindl also alleged misconduct by township officials and complained that her requests for documents had gone unanswered. According to the minutes, Solicitor Mark Roselli interrupted to warn her "to be careful how she states things because it could be used against her," and Brindl replied that officials were taking away her right to speak. Roselli and township staff reiterated that the township owns the property and that only township officials, the architect and contractors should be on the work site while construction continues.
Other commenters included Marie Cozine, who asked why a metal pole obstructed a sidewalk corner; Chief Tuliano said PSE&G would remove old poles on the following Wednesday and Thursday. Ethan Taylor reported missing and faded speed limit signs on Hanover Drive and asked the township to address speeding in that neighborhood.
In committee remarks, Deputy Mayor Pawlyzyn said he was upset about misinformation concerning officials, and Committeeman Koshak defended contractor workmanship and congratulated a staff member on the birth of a son. Mayor Peterla reminded residents of upcoming Easter events on March 28 and again reported progress at the Godfrey House. The minutes do not record any formal action in response to allegations; the matters raised are recorded for follow-up and possible investigation.
