City of Bridgeton, NJ - Press Releases

Bridgeton Moves Forward with OPS Community Policing Network

City of Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly and Chief of Police Michael Gaimari Sr. announced today that the Bridgeton’s Police Department has completed their part in a cutting-edge community policing pilot program, and are the very first police department in the nation to utilize the all new Online Policing Solutions National Law Enforcement and Community Policing Network.

Nearly three years ago, the Bridgeton Police Department and city leaders were presented with an opportunity to become a pilot agency for a brand-new concept in community policing. This concept was to launch an actual community policing network that would create a secure gateway and partnership between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve, while streamlining police operations, drastically expand agency resources, and connect law enforcement agencies, officers and communities 24/7. When approached, Mayor Kelly and Chief Gaimari were impressed with the concept.

“We knew right away that we could be looking at the future of community policing and an enhanced law enforcement partnership with the community,” Mayor Kelly said.

“The concept was impressive, and something we wanted to be part of from the start.” Chief Gaimari said. “It was obvious to us that this could be a real game-changer. We strive to stay connected to our community and with technology as it is today, this is a perfect solution.”

With the OPS Network, officers and community members have access to tools and technology to seamlessly work together, shaping the future of twenty-first century policing and community engagement. The network was a seven-year development project that finally began its pilot program in Bridgeton in mid-2020.

“The results have been nothing short of amazing.” said Gaimari. “This is not just a website or gimmick. This is an actual network that creates a true and transparent partnership with each community member in addition to all the participating agencies. This is exactly what was needed.”

By utilizing the web-based network, community members can now interact and partner with law enforcement like never before. From the Bridgeton Police Department’s OPS Community Interface (think website on rocket fuel), community members can:

· Submit 100% Anonymous TIPS

· Subscribe to receive Alerts, News and Press Releases

· View/download Wanted and Missing person flyers and bulletins

· Ask questions and get answers from actual officers

· File internal affairs concerns

· Commend officers

· Download important documents

· Read agency policies and procedures

· Learn about career opportunities

· Register Special Needs family members

· Learn about the department

· Keep up to date with daily police activity

· Share surveillance camera information

· Access a myriad of valuable resources and community tools

· Much more

This transparent law enforcement partnership tool requires no logins or APP downloads, is completely web based and works from any modern computer or smartphone. Community members from ages 18 to 80 can participate.

In addition to the community interface, the OPS Network contains numerous tools that allow officers to connect with other OPS Network partner law enforcement agencies, and leverage the power of the network to offer much better services to the community, while supporting each other.

“Connecting with other agencies sharing information on cases that span over a vast geographical area has already reaped rewards and resulted in the apprehension of a number of violent offenders,” Gaimari noted.

“The City of Bridgeton is extremely honored to take the lead on this project and be the first in the nation to break new ground. We are leveraging usable technology to advance the community-police partnership mission, while at the same time assisting our brave law enforcement officers by providing them much needed tools to navigate modern policing,” Mayor Kelly added.

Chief Gaimari noted that, “as we see our jurisdictional borders fade, and our citizens become more reliant on technology, we now have the resources to connect and work with community in a way that was not possible in the past, while connecting with our partners in law enforcement like never before.”

Mayor Kelly and Chief Gaimari say they are both excited to see this new network spread across our state and nation, so that all communities and law enforcement agencies can work together. Both agreed that “it is about time we thought outside the box! The OPS Network has changed the game and we are proud to have played a part in making that happen”.

The new Bridgeton Police Department OPS Community Interface can be visited at www.bpdops.com. You can submit direct TIPS to bpd.tips, which are 100% anonymous and secure.

Walmart Administering Covid Vaccine

Mayor Kelly and Bridgeton City Council are pleased to advise that Walmart located at 1130 Highway 77 in the greater Bridgeton area (through the State Program) currently has available appointments for persons 65 and older seeking the Covid vaccine. Walmart is administering the Moderna vaccine and those interested can schedule and appointment by calling their local Walmart Pharmacy or the NJ Senior Hotline at (856) 249-7007

NJUMA Statement on the Recent Mob Attack of the U.S. Capitol

NJUMA Statement on the Recent Mob Attack of the U.S. Capitol

The New Jersey Urban Mayors Association (NJUMA) expresses deep concerns for the current state of our nation due to the riot that President Trump incited in Washington, DC on Wednesday, which delayed the country’s certification of the electoral ballots in favor of President-Elect Joe Biden. This refusal of a peaceful transfer of power is not reflective of the morals upon which our country stands and is a blatant display of domestic terrorism.

As local elected officials, we realize the importance of working together with those on the opposite side of the political aisle to come together for the greater good of our constituents. Unfortunately, the behavior displayed in our nation’s capital yesterday has become all too familiar. This careless charge to violently express the disdain some may have in reference to this country’s democratic process sets us back tremendously and puts many of our federal representatives, law enforcement officers, and civilians in great danger. What was displayed in our nation’s capital was the polar opposite of what our country needs to move forward.

The NJUMA recognizes the disparate treatment of our citizenry when we have watched 5,000 national guardsmen teargassing protesters of the Black Lives Matter movement, a reaction relegated to communities of color peacefully protesting in Washington, DC last year; opposed to the stark contrast of how the mostly white rioters who destroyed federal property were treated, as they took selfies with law enforcement officers, and took over offices and meeting spaces of our federal representatives. We have seen examples of this behavior spread across the nation in our local cities and towns since Wednesday’s riot; NJUMA is prepared to protect our citizens and will not tolerate anarchist behavior in our communities.

We will continue to strive for fair and equal treatment of all of the nation’s residents and look forward to the days ahead when a more politically astute and civilly-poised President takes the seat to govern the great nation of the United States of America.

BRIDGETON CITY COUNCIL HEADS UP COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19TH

Media Release

BRIDGETON CITY COUNCIL HEADS UP COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19TH

While Covid-19 has changed much about how we gather and move about the community, it hasn’t changed the amount of litter gathering and moving along the curb lines and green spaces, especially within Bridgeton City Park. In response, a Community Clean-Up Day will kick off from the Marino Center located at 11 Washington Street, beginning at 9:30am on Saturday, September 19^th.

Headed up by Bridgeton Council President Ed Bethea, volunteers are invited to join friends and colleagues at the Marino Center for an 8:30 am breakfast followed by the handing-out of T-Shirts for all volunteers who will also receive clean-up assignments for the day.

“2020 has been a hard and challenging year in a lot of ways including from the recent hurricane that impacted our area. The result has been an incredible amount of loose trash and litter on the streets and byways of Bridgeton. I am calling on all civic-minded residents to consider joining us for a few hours because we can have a big impact if we work together to clean things up” said Bethea.

In addition to breakfast and T-shirts, volunteers will be provided with traffic safety vests, gloves, bags, and litter sticks. Volunteers will be asked to tie-up filled bags and leave them at the nearest street corner for pick-up by Bridgeton’s Public Work’s Department.

“Whether speaking with a resident through the week or at Council meetings, one ongoing complaint always seems to be the amount of trash and litter in the community. My hope is that many of the same people who take the time to regularly highlight the problem will also dedicate a little time on Saturday to being part of the solution” Bethea said.

The Bridgeton Community-Wide Clean-Up will begin at 9:30am and run until 2:30pm. A free breakfast will be provided beginning at 8:30am at the Marino Center.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON RITE AID DOING COVID TESTING AT DRIVE-THRU PHARMACY WINDOW

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Albert B. Kelly Mayor

(856) 455-3230 Ext 200

BRIDGETON RITE AID DOING COVID TESTING AT DRIVE-THRU PHARMACY WINDOW

According to some, it feels like New Jersey is in somewhat of a lull as far as the Covid-19 public health crisis but according to Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly, that doesn’t mean we should let down our guard. That is why Kelly and other Bridgeton officials were pleased with Rite Aid’s decision to provide Covid-19 testing at the Bridgeton Rite Aid located at 52 E. Broad Street.

Any resident interested in receiving a test, will first have to register and set an appointment through the company website www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing. Testing is for individuals over the age of 18 regardless of whether or not they have symptoms and a script from a physician or other health care provider will not be required.

“I know people are worn out from this pandemic and all the changes it has meant for families, but I am pleased that Rite Aid is providing this service in the community. I think we owe a debt of gratitude to the pharmacy staff at Bridgeton Rite Aid because they’re taking this on in addition to their regular work of filling prescriptions in a very busy pharmacy,” said Kelly.

As far as cost, testing is free of charge to patients and they will not be asked to enter insurance information. As far as the process, patients will need to go through the pharmacy drive-thru window where they will receive a test through the drive-through drawer. All testing will be completed in the confines of the patient's car with samples sealed by the patient, and then handed back to the Rite Aid pharmacist through the drawer.

The Rite Aid testing process involves use of the self-swab nasal tests which will require that patients arrive in a car as there will be no pedestrian “walk-up” tests performed. It is necessary to schedule an appointment through the website as the Bridgeton Rite Aid, like other stores, can only conduct a limited number of tests per day.

“My hope is that there will be very little need for such testing in Bridgeton and throughout the communities of Cumberland County but given what we’ve seen in other parts of the country, it is good to know that we have testing capabilities available as we need them. Everyone needs to observe social distancing and use of masks when out in public because it makes all the difference” said Kelly.

To schedule an appointment please visit www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON CITY OFFICES CLOSED TO “WALK-IN” TRAFFIC DUE TO COVID-19

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin C. Rabago, Sr.

(856) 451-3407

rabagok@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON CITY OFFICES CLOSED TO “WALK-IN” TRAFFIC DUE TO COVID-19

As state and local jurisdictions attempt to slow the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the City of Bridgeton joins a growing list of municipalities closing offices and facilities to the public. While nonessential City offices will no longer be open to “walk-in” traffic, municipal departments and divisions will be available by phone, email and for specific business, through scheduled appointments.

“After consulting with local health officials and getting the latest guidance from County and State officials, we made the decision to close City offices and facilities to the normal daily foot traffic that comes in.” said Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly

In order to assist members of the public attempting to do essential business, City official will be posting guidance on the City’s website (www.cityofbridgeton.com) to help inform residents on which phone numbers and web pages to access for the various forms and applications they might need. Residents are also encouraged to call departments with questions as they arise. In addition to City Hall closing, the Library is closed and Municipal Court will be closed through March 27^th. The Police window will remain open to the public.

In addition to using email and regular mail, City officials will be expanding the use of the drive-up window at City Hall Annex, located at 181 E. Commerce St, for an expanded number of functions including marriage certificates, birth and death certificates, and other municipal business. Officials are also working to place a secure drop box at the front of City Hall Annex which should be available to the public within the next 10 days.

“We’re in unchartered territory in terms of this virus and the shutting down of normal business activity. We ask the public to be patient with us as we figure out procedures and iron out the wrinkles.” Kelly said.

In addition to amended procedures for doing business with the City offices spelled out on the website, Kelly said that everything from enforcing parking ordinances to conducting public meetings is being examined to figure how to balance public health and safety with the need to provide services.

“I told my staff and my department heads that now, in the face of this virus, is when we earn our pay because now is precisely when public service calls on us to be creative, resourceful and imaginative and now is when it matters most” said Kelly.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON CANCELS LIBRARY, KIDSFEST, URGES CAUTION FROM COVID-19 VIRUS

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin C. Rabago, Sr.

(856) 455-3230 Ext 225

rabagok@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON CANCELS LIBRARY, KIDSFEST, URGES CAUTION FROM COVID-19 VIRUS

After talking with staff, conferring with local health officials, and reviewing ongoing guidance from the New Jersey Health Department, Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly decided it was in the best interests of employees and residents to cancel activities and programs at the Public Library and in City Park, specifically the May 2^nd KidsFest.

“The situation with COVID-19 is evolving rapidly and things seem to be changing almost hourly and we thought it better to avoid gatherings of this type in general rather than have employees, residents, and visitors potentially exposed to this virus” said Kelly.

As for the longer term, whether July 4^th fireworks, opening the Splash Park, or activities such as Zoo camp, City Officials will await whatever guidance might be forthcoming from state health officials and act in line with such guidance. For all of that though, the wheels of government grind on in the form of City Council meetings.

“While some communities have the ability to live-stream their public meetings, we will have in-person meetings in order to do the people’s business. Fortunately, the number of people attending is usually not that much, so that keeps the potential risk lower than if it were a large audience and a full room” said Kelly.

Except for the cancelled activities, City government carries on with business as usual for the time being, but there is the very real sense, for elected officials and employees alike, that they’re all in unchartered waters when it comes to COVID-19 and its potential impacts.

“Making plans and preparing for the impacts from this virus is difficult because no one can say how long those impacts will last or how deep they will go. The task at hand involves serving the public while also protecting employees and residents. It is a difficult balancing act but one Council President Bethea and I are committed to getting right.” Kelly said.

For the time being, Kelly and Council colleagues are urging residents to use their best judgement when deciding whether or not to go to church services or other gatherings. “It is a time for caution, especially for older residents and those with underlying health conditions and I would urge people to err on the side of caution” said Kelly.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

COHANZICK ZOO TO HOLD “BOO AT THE ZOO” OCTOBER 19TH FROM 11:00AM TO 2:00PM

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Recreation Department

(856) 453-1675

hemplem@cityofbridgeton.com

COHANZICK ZOO TO HOLD “BOO AT THE ZOO” OCTOBER 19^TH FROM 11A - 2P

As we and head into autumn, we’re entering into what is for many their favorite time of year. Children head back to school, stores put out their fall decorations, the leaves on the trees start to change hinting at the cooler temperatures to come, and the Bridgeton Recreation Department holds its annual “Boo at the Zoo” event at the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton City Park.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, October 20th from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Cohanzick Zoo. In the full spirit of Halloween, children under 12 years of age are encouraged to show off their costumes as they enjoy the animals and collect treats. In addition to treats, children will also be able to make free crafts for parents or grandparents to admire and enjoy a number of other activities as well. Admission is $1.00 per person and all treats and crafts are while supplies last.

The Cohanzick Zoo, which opened in 1934, is located at 45 Mayor Aitken Drive in Bridgeton City Park and is one of New Jersey’s oldest zoos with over 100 animals representing over 45 species in multiple exhibits including Bengal tigers Mahesha and Rishi who celebrated their third birthday on September 30^th.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON HOLDING LIFEGUARD INFO-RECRUITMENT JULY 18TH AT SUNSET LAKE

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bridgeton Recreation Dept.

(856) 453-1675

BRIDGETON HOLDING LIFEGUARD INFO-RECRUITMENT JULY 18^TH AT SUNSET LAKE

If you are 15 years of age or older and curious to see what’s involved with being a lifeguard, then you will want to attend the July 18^th Lifeguard Information and Recruitment Session at Sunset Lake in Bridgeton City Park from 9:30am to 11:30am. The session is free and the only requirement is to come in a bathing suit. The session, sponsored by the Red Cross, will review what’s involved with being a lifeguard from required training to the differences between pools and open water.

“I think being a lifeguard is great way for someone to earn money and enjoy the outdoors. When young people and maybe those not quite as young think about job opportunities, whether part-time or full-time, they hardly ever think about being a lifeguard. Yet in New Jersey, there is a shortage of trained lifeguards and they make pretty decent money” said Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly.

What prompted Bridgeton’s July 18^th information and promotional session, in addition to a lack of general awareness about employment opportunities for lifeguards, is the presence of Sunset Lake and Bridgeton’s desire to open the lake to the public for swimming during the summer.

“We’ve been very focused on Sunset Lake over the past few years. Initially it was filling the lake after the 2011 storm that breached the raceway and caused the lake to be empty for a few years. Once filled, we’ve been focusing on improving water quality and we’ve made headway. Now, it’s making sure we have the right number of trained lifeguards to protect public safety” Kelly said.

While efforts at hiring lifeguards begin relatively soon after the New Year, usually while it’s still cold out, it’s been difficult because those with the required credentials are either high school or college students who can’t commit until the school semester ends, lack transportation to travel to work, or don’t have the necessary certifications to work as a lifeguard.

The goal of Bridgeton’s information and promotional session is to find out who might be interested locally and then guiding them through the process of getting trained and certified to work as a lifeguard at Sunset Lake. The minimum number of lifeguards for swimming at the lake on a given day is three.

“This could be a great summer opportunity to for someone and I hope to see a lot of people come out on July 18th to see if being a lifeguard is for them. People can call our Recreation Office at (856) 453-1675 to find out more information” said Kelly.”

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON “PLAY STREETS” KICKS-OFF JULY 17TH AT DOWNTOWN RIVERFRONT PLAZA

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin C. Rabago, Sr.

(856) 451-3407

rabagok@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON “PLAY STREETS” KICKS-OFF JULY 17^TH AT DOWNTOWN RIVERFRONT PLAZA

For Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly, “Play Streets” is one of the answers to a question he gets asked every summer; namely what is there for kids to do once school lets out. After listing several activities for 2019 that includes soccer camp, zoo camp at the Cohanzick Zoo, the Splash Park, and weekly library programs, he highlights “Bridgeton Play Streets” which will take place Wednesdays at the downtown Riverfront Plaza from 4pm to 6pm beginning July 17^th.

Open to youth of all ages, Bridgeton Play Streets will host a number of activities including kickball, various water games, dance, arts and crafts, and bouncy houses. The Play Streets program, part of the Cumberland County Positive Youth Development Coalition’s county-wide juvenile delinquency prevention efforts, is being sponsored locally by Complete Care, Bridgeton PAL, Bridgeton Public Schools, Greater Bridgeton Family Success Center, and the Cumberland County Health Department.

“Bridgeton Play Streets is a great summer activity for our youth because it allows our young people to play and socialize in a safe, supervised, and structured environment during the summer when school is out. It’s centrally located in downtown at the riverfront, it’s easy to get to and it really is a festive atmosphere”, said Kelly.

Each Wednesday afternoon from 4:00pm to 6:00pm from mid-July thru mid-August, the riverfront plaza will be closed off to cars and transformed into a pop-up play area. There is no cost or registration to participate in Bridgeton Play Streets. While youth of all ages are welcome, the program is targeting youth ages 6-14.

The Cumberland County Positive Youth Development Coalition started in Vineland in 2009 with guidance and technical assistance provided by the Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs at Rutgers– Camden. Going county-wide in 2013, the coalition brings together various stakeholders from the fields of education, law enforcement, social services, faith-based, and youth-serving organizations in order to reduce juvenile delinquency and prevent youth from ending up in the criminal justice system as adults.

“Play Streets is just one part of a larger effort by a lot of groups and individuals working in the coalition to help steer our young people in as many positive ways as possible. In addition to socializing with peers, the program allows our youth to connect with adults and mentors who care and want to help. Positive change for young people often comes through those types of relationships that begin through activities like Play Streets.” Kelly said.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON’S COHANZICK ZOO ANNOUNCES 2019 “SUMMER ZOO CAMP” FOR YOUTH

Media Release

Contact: Regina Davis For Immediate Release

Cohanzick Zoo Secretary

(856) 453-1658

BRIDGETON’S COHANZICK ZOO ANNOUNCES 2019 “SUMMER ZOO CAMP” FOR YOUTH

Even though the calendar still says spring, Bridgeton’s Cohanzick Zoo is already planning ahead for the 2019 “Summer Zoo Camp” set to take place at the Cohanzick Zoo on Mayor Aitkin Drive in the Bridgeton City Park.

The camp, which runs over successive weeks beginning July 8th and going until August 2nd, will provide youth of all ages with an educational and fun opportunity to learn about lives of different animals, their habitats, and the ecosystems in which they thrive. Campers will also receive a complimentary t-shirt, crafts, games, and an assortment of snacks along the way.

With a little something for every age, space is limited so those interested in attending are encouraged to sign up early in order to reserve their slot for this year’s camp. The fee is $75 for Cohanzick Zoo Society members and $100 for nonmembers. Participating youth must be at least 5 years of age before April 1, 2019 in order to be eligible for this year’s zoo camp

Dates for the sessions are as follows:

Session 1: ages 5 & 6: July 8 thru 12, (morning 8am to 12pm)

Session 2: ages 5 & 6: July 8 thru 12 12, (afternoon 1pm to 5pm)

Session 3: ages 7 & 8: July 15 thru 19, (morning 8am to 12pm)

Session 4: ages 7 & 8: July 15 thru 19, (afternoon 1pm to 5pm)

Session 5: ages 9, 10 & 11: July 22 thru 26, (morning 8am to 12pm)

Session 6: ages 9, 10 & 11: July 22 thru 26, (afternoon 1pm to 5pm)

Session 7: ages 12, 13 & 14: July 29 thru Aug. 2, (morning 8am to 12pm)

Registrations now being accepted

For more information about Bridgeton’s 2019 Summer Zoo Camp and registration, please call the Cohanzick Zoo Office at (856) 453-1658 or visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

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BRIDGETON GETS A NEW TOOL IN ONGOING SEASONAL BATTLES AGAINST POTHOLES

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dean Dellaquila.

(856) 455-3230

DellaquilaD@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON GETS A NEW TOOL IN ONGOING SEASONAL BATTLES AGAINST POTHOLES

If there is one thing that plagues streets throughout a community, it is the presence of potholes. With the approach of winter, the problem of potholes takes on greater urgency as road salt and thawing and freezing deteriorate road surfaces and cause potholes that can destroy the best of suspensions.

But the City of Bridgeton’s Public Works Department has a new tool in the ongoing war with potholes known as the Falcon Asphalt Hot Box which lets workers generate the right mix of material to fill and seal potholes wherever they’re found. Delivered on November 27^th, workers will be moving systematically throughout the neighborhoods to fill potholes.

“This is an important piece of equipment that’s lets us fill potholes and make our streets safer and easier to drive for our residents and visitors. The winter season is rough on roads, but having the Falcon Hot Box helps us to try and stay ahead of the problem” said Bridgeton Public Works Director Dean Dellaquila.

Of course potholes are not the only thing workers will be doing this time of year. In addition to potholes, Bridgeton’s Public Works crews attack the piles of leaves that build up throughout the community including the piles raked to curb lines by residents clearing yard areas city-wide.

“With the start of fall, we know it is leaf season and we have crews moving throughout the city with leaf machines clearing curb lines and streets until the trees are bare” Dellaquila said.

The focus is always on the street whether it’s ensuring the safety of drivers by filling potholes, clearing leaves that can make driving treacherous or removing leaves clogging sewer drains. From a Public Works perspective, everything ends up in the streets.

If there is one message Bridgeton’s Public Works Department wants to share with the residents, it is that they will get to each and every neighborhood but it may take a little time and if the pace is a little slower than hoped for, it likely has to do with the weather- but they will get to every neighborhood.

“Prolonged periods of rain and snow events mean that work crews have to switch gears and deal with the situation at hand. But we will get to every neighborhood and street, it just may take a little longer than we hope, but we will get to you” said Dellaquila.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON AND RUTGERS GET $100K EDA GRANT TO DO SMART FOOD TECH PLAN

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin C. Rabago, Sr.

(856) 451-3407

rabagok@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON AND RUTGERS GET $100K EDA GRANT TO DO SMART FOOD TECH PLAN

Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly is all about collaboration and partnerships to accomplish things and that strategy proved its value again this week as Governor Phil Murphy announced that Bridgeton is one of the nine communities selected to receive a $100,000 planning grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) as part of the Innovation Challenge pilot project.

Launched in July, the EDA issued a Request for Qualifications/Proposals (RFQ/P) inviting individual communities or teams of communities to submit proposals for the planning grant which is designed as a way to catalyze growth in the Garden State with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. The project called for communities to partner with a college or university as a way to leverage the strengths of both.

In the case of Bridgeton, the strategic partnership is with Rutgers through the Food Innovation Center and the Cumberland/Salem/Cape May Workforce Development Board. The focus will be on developing a national model for innovation and emerging technology for the food sector by establishing a technology hub for the food industry cluster in Bridgeton. The plan calls for creating a 15,000 to 20,000 square foot facility dedicated to development, testing, and training on the latest cutting-edge technology to make food production, processing, and packaging safer and more efficient.

According to Kelly the timing for the project, entitled “Bridgeton: A Center for Smart Food Manufacturing”, could not have been better. “With construction of the Food Specialization Center underway right next to the Food Innovation Center, the timing to start the planning for a smart food technology facility is perfect. This will allow us to do what we do best which is food”, said Kelly.

In addition to Rutgers and the Workforce Development Board, other supporting partners that will contribute to the project include the Cumberland Empowerment Zone,, Cumberland County Improvement Authority, Bridgeton Area Chamber of Commerce, Cumberland Development Corp, Cumberland County College, Buona Vita Foods, Cumberland Dairy, Lassonde Pappas, and White Wave, Inc. (Danone). Beyond local partners, the project will also tap into the expertise of technology giants Emerson and Siemens.

The primary goals of the Innovation Challenge will be on increasing the number of small businesses in the area, attracting new employers, finding solutions based on the use of new and emerging technologies, and ultimately executing the plans set out in the project. Given the assets that already exist in Bridgeton and throughout the county, Kelly believes a facility dedicated to smart food technology is a logical next step for Bridgeton.

“One of the unique things about Cumberland County is the way we work together and leverage our strengths to accomplish our goals in pursuing growth and revitalization. All of the partners involved have a long history working together as evidenced by the Food Innovation Center and the Food Specialization Center. With this project, I am confident that we can create a food industry hub that is unique in the country which will lead directly to more jobs and employment opportunities for our residents “, Kelly said.

In addition to Bridgeton, the other communities selected for a planning grant include New Brunswick, Passaic County, Trenton, Atlantic County, Atlantic City, Camden County, Union Township, and Monmouth County.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON TACKLES CLEARING, CAPPING, RECLAIMING OLD LANDFILL IN CITY PARK

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin C. Rabago, Sr.

(856) 451-3407

rabagok@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON TACKLES CLEARING, CAPPING, RECLAIMING OLD LANDFILL IN CITY PARK

For Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly it was 12 years in the making but this week, he and City officials were finally able to give the go-ahead for Ricky Slade Construction to begin the process of clearing and capping the old landfill in Bridgeton City Park with an eye toward reclaiming the site for green space and passive recreation.

“When I first took office in 2010, one of the things I came across was a community visioning report where residents expressed their desire to open what they called ‘Mt. Trashmore’ for recreational use. That, stayed with me and I took on the task of reclaiming the space for some type of community recreation use and we’re finally able to do that” said Kelly.

The DEP-approved landfill closure comes in at a cost of $1.7 million and will include installation of soil erosion control devices and clearance of old vegetation from the landfill itself. Once the clearing is completed, a 1-foot thick layer of low permeability fill material will be compacted into place over the entire landfill and the last step in the process will see installation of a six inch layer of top soil that will be fertilized and seeded.

This last step in the process will also have the side slopes of the landfill covered with erosion control matting which, according to the City’s engineering consultant firm Fralinger Engineering, will increase soil stabilization and allow new vegetation to effectively take root. The final thickness of the landfill cap will be a minimum of 2’ thick- which includes 6” of existing landfill cover material.

According to City officials, the entire process from clearing to installing soil erosion control devices to the application of the various layers to the required thicknesses is expected to be completed within 120 days.

From here, Kelly and City officials will focus on the adaptive reuse of the 28-acre site seeing it as a catalyst for both a renewed focus on the system of trails within City Park, but also as an opportunity to explore various passive recreation options including bike trails and as a nature preserve.

“We are mindful of the value in the area’s natural resource potential. The approximately 60-acres of environmentally sensitive land along the Cohansey River corridor provides one of the great assets to the Park and we want to manage that asset while making it open and accessible- transforming ‘Mt. Trashmore’ into something the public can use and enjoy,” Kelly said.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON APPROVES PUBLIC QUESTION ON CANNABIS FOR NOVEMBER ELECTION

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin C. Rabago, Sr.

(856) 451-3407

rabagok@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON APPROVES PUBLIC QUESTION ON CANNABIS FOR NOVEMBER ELECTION

With the issue of legalizing marijuana in New Jersey being a much-debated subject at all levels including state government, among municipalities, interest groups, the business community, public health advocates, and law enforcement, Bridgeton mayor Albert Kelly thinks it’s important to give residents a chance to be heard and City Council agrees.

By a 4-0 vote, Bridgeton City Council on Tuesday approved a resolution from Kelly that asks the County Clerk to include the nonbinding cannabis-related public questions on Bridgeton’s general election ballots this November as permitted by N.J.S.A 19:37-1. While the results are nonbinding and the questions focus on whether or not to allow retail facilities to operate in the city when and if marijuana becomes legal in the state, Kelly believes that it is important to let the public have a say on the issue.

“The statutes allow for a public question to gauge voter sentiment and while the results are nonbinding, that doesn’t mean the results are unimportant. As officials elected by the people of this community, we need to consider and be informed by the thoughts and opinions of the voters and that means giving them opportunities to be heard”, said Kelly.

If accepted and placed on the ballot by the County Clerk as anticipated, the questions would ask whether or not to allow retail facilities, including cultivation and distribution facilities, to operate within city limits and if so, whether such facilities should be confined to industrial-zoned areas within the city.

While municipalities lack standing as to whether or not to legalize marijuana, a municipality does have standing as it relates to zoning and whether or not to allow retail, cultivation, or distribution operations and where such facilities can locate. To date three counties and just over 2 dozen communities around New Jersey have approved measures dealing with cannabis-related businesses with some towns implementing outright bans and others modifying their zoning laws.

“There are many things to consider, from health and law enforcement aspects to economic and tax-related impacts but it seems to me, before amending specific ordinances, that the first step is to create a vehicle where the voters can weigh in with a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down vote and that’s what we seek to do in November” said Kelly.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON WATER DEPARTMENT BEGINS FLUSHING FIRE HYDRANTS APRIL 9TH

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Curt Morgan, Superintendent

Water & Sewer Dept

(856) 455-7257

BRIDGETON WATER DEPARTMENT BEGINS FLUSHING FIRE HYDRANTS APRIL 9^TH

Beginning Monday, April 9^th, the Bridgeton Water Department will begin a city-wide process of flushing fire hydrants which will take place between 9am and 3pm, Monday through Friday, and is expected to conclude around the toward the end of April or the beginning of May.

The systematic flushing according to Water & Sewer Superintendent Curt Morgan, is done yearly and is intended to ensure that hydrants are fully operable and ready for use should they be needed. “Each year, personnel go out a flush the hydrants to make sure that they are in good working order” said Morgan.

In addition to seeing crews in their neighborhoods during April, residents may also encounter cloudy water coming from their faucets. Should that be the case, it is recommended that residents avoid washing laundry during or immediately after hydrant flushing in their area. Recommendations also include flushing water heaters to remove sediment that may accumulate.

“Crews will be moving through the community on a systematic basis and depending on what area they’re working in, residents may see cloudy water when they turn on their faucets. This will clear up fairly quickly once the flushing process is completed, but residents should avoid washing clothes while flushing is underway in their neighborhood” said Morgan.

Residents who wish to find out when hydrant flushing will take place in their specific area can do so by calling the Bridgeton Water & Sewer Department at (856) 455-7257.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents. Working in conjunction with the Fire Department, our first priority is public safety and part of that is making sure that fire hydrants are in proper working order” Morgan Said.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON BEGINS ISSUING MUNICIPAL ID’S WITH DECEMBER 15TH KICKOFF

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mariam Garcia

Deputy Municipal Clerk

(856) 455-3230 Ext 226

GarciaM@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON BEGINS ISSUING MUNICIPAL ID’S WITH DECEMBER 15^TH KICKOFF

A long time in the making and sought by many in the community, the City of Bridgeton, through the Municipal Clerk’s Office, will begin issuing Bridgeton Municipal ID Cards to residents desiring such ID on December 15^th at the City Hall Annex building, located at 181 E. Commerce Street, from 9am to 12 noon and again in the afternoon from 2pm to 4pm.

Intended for any resident of the municipality who lacks more conventional forms of identification such as a driver’s license, student ID, or similar forms; the process to obtain a Bridgeton Municipal ID will involve completing an application and providing verifying documentation such as a birth certificate (U.S. or foreign), passport, current Visa, Green Card, Consular ID, driver’s license, and a utility bill with name/address.

To help ensure a smooth process leading into the December 15^th launch, the City of Bridgeton has partnered with CATA, the Farmworker Support Committee, in an effort to help all residents, regardless of language or nationality, to complete applications and assemble the necessary verification documents ahead of the completeness review that will be taking place at City Hall Annex as part of issuing the actual cards on December 15^th.

Prior to the December 15^th date, residents are strongly encouraged to call or visit CATA’s Bridgeton Office, located at 66 Atlantic Street, on Mondays between 1pm and 8pm or via phone at (856) 881-2507. CATA staff will be available to explain the process and assist with completing applications. Residents can also contact Bridgeton’s Deputy Municipal Clerk at (856) 455-3230 Ext 233 from 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday thru Friday as well.

According to Bridgeton Mayor Albert B. Kelly, the municipal ID fills a need expressed by a number of residents and groups including youth, senior citizens, those with disabilities, immigrants, and homeless individuals accessing a variety of services and opportunities within the community.

“There are various reasons why a person might not have common forms of identification and this can become an issue if someone needs to establish proof of their residence within the city whether to get a library card, perhaps in health care facilities, banking or social services, or in dealings with local government or emergency responders”, said Kelly.

The process for obtaining a municipal ID card includes presenting a completed application with proof of identity and residence in Bridgeton. Based on a point system, with 4 points being the minimum, individuals need to show one or more documents in combination that associate an applicant’s photograph with their name and birth date.

As for specific documents and points; a passport, consular or permanent resident ID card, license or visa with the person’s photograph, name and date of birth will be worth 4 points. A birth certificate and license with a person’s name and date of birth will be worth 3 points. A license or military ID with photograph and name will be worth 2 points, and a Social Security or an EBT card with name only will be worth 1 point.

To show proof of residency, applicants need to present two of the following with their home address listed and dated to within 45 days of the application date: A utility bill, local property tax statement, mortgage payment receipt, bank statement, proof that the applicant has a minor child in a school in Bridgeton, pay stub, jury summons, court order, state or federal income tax or refund statement, or insurance bill. In the case of minor children, documents must be provided by a parent or legal guardian.

The fee for the Bridgeton Municipal ID is $15 for adults and $8 for minors, veterans, disabled, or senior citizens. Applicants must pay with exact change or a money order.

Residents unable to obtain the municipal ID on December 15^th, will have an opportunity to do so on January 26^th at City Hall Annex from 9am to 12 noon and in the afternoon from 2pm to 4pm. Residents will also be able to receive assistance and help with applications and documents from CATA on Mondays from 1pm to 8pm at their 66 Atlantic St office or through the Deputy Municipal Clerk at City Hall Annex.

“There will be a learning curve as we go through the procedures for issuing the ID’s in December and January, but afterwards the process will be in place- the main thing for residents is having their paperwork and documentation in order when applying which will help us serve the public as quickly and efficiently as possible”, Kelly said.

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To obtain an ID application or learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

BRIDGETON GOES “ELECTRONIC” WITH ONLINE TAX SALE DECEMBER 18TH

Media Release

Contact FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mary Pierce

(856) 455-3230 Ext 211

piercemary@cityofbridgeton.com

BRIDGETON GOES “ELECTRONIC” WITH ONLINE TAX SALE DECEMBER 18TH

Starting with the 2017 tax sale, the City of Bridgeton will be joining upwards of 50 other townships and municipalities throughout New Jersey, along with communities in several other states that now conduct their tax sales electronically online. According to City officials, the online or electronic format is where a number of municipal functions are now headed and the time was right to make the change.

“The electronic tax sale is the wave of the future and something all municipalities will be incorporating over the next several years and while the initial change is challenging, it will be a more efficient and seamless process going forward”, said Municipal Tax Collector Mary Pierce.

In addition to a more efficient process that frees up staff time, the electronic online tax sale format also increases the number of potential bidders purchasing tax liens, which then might ultimately bring more tax revenue into municipal coffers.

Under the old process, prospective bidders would have to physically come to the location of the tax sale in order to bid, but with the new online format, bidders can submit bids from the comfort of their own homes or offices wherever that happens to be. The hope is that the new online format will open up the process beyond the limited number of bidders that in the past, could participate only in-person.

“The goal of the tax sale always remains the same- which is to collect unpaid taxes in order to provide services to residents. In the past, the tax sale tended to be a very small and local event because bidders had to travel to Bridgeton to take part in the tax sale. By transitioning our process to the online format, it expands the bidder base regionally and even nationally” said Pierce.

Interested bidders need only visit https://bridgeton.newjerseytaxsale.com to participate in the December 18th tax sale and find out everything they need to know about bidding rules, how to register, the bidding process, minimum deposits, and the deadlines in place for successful bidders.

Aside from the date of the tax sale itself, another important date leading up to the sale according to Tax Collector Mary Pierce is December 15^th because on that Friday, when the tax office closes at 4:30pm, whoever remains on the list will be in the tax sale the following Monday (December 18^th).

“As people come in and get paid current, they will be removed from the tax sale list and I will be sending updates over to the online vendor “Real Auction” regularly to ensure that those properties are removed from the final tax sale list but the cutoff to get paid current is the close of business on December 15^th” Pierce said.

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To learn more about the City of Bridgeton, please visit www.cityofbridgeton.com

Use anonymous TIP411 Text Service to report crime by texting “Bridgeton” plus your tip to 847411

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