Mantua introduces hawkers/peddlers changes and a PILOT ordinance; committee adopts routine resolutions and an appointment

Mayor Zimmerman told the committee that Ordinance 5-2025 would amend Chapter 296, Article I of the township code to allow the police department to suspend or revoke licenses issued to hawkers, peddlers and solicitors and to cite businesses soliciting without a permit. Deputy Mayor Legge moved to introduce the ordinance; Committeewoman Lukens seconded the motion and the introduction was approved for later hearings and vote.

The committee also introduced Ordinance 6-2025, authorizing a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) between the township and Ingerman Development Company, LLC for property known as 396 Jackson Road, pursuant to the Fair Housing Act (N.J.S.A. 52:27D-301 et seq.). That ordinance was introduced by motion and will return for further consideration.

On the consent agenda the committee adopted Resolutions R-99-2025 through R-103-2025 in one motion. The resolutions included a $60 pavilion rental refund to Betsy Cote; an extension of the third-quarter 2025 property tax due date; authorization of an agreement with Villages of Berkley; refunds of remaining professional escrow funds; and appointment of Katie Snyder as Mantua Township Deputy Court Administrator.

Committee members made brief remarks: Committeeman Steen said he supports the solicitation ordinance, citing late-evening solicitor visits to his home; Committeeman Snyder said he presented a proclamation to Eagle Scout Alexander Atkinson; Committeewoman Lukens thanked the Public Works Department for bulk-week work; Deputy Mayor Legge reported presenting proclamations to the township's first two female Eagle Scouts.

The meeting closed after approval of the bill list and a motion to adjourn.