The NJ League of Municipalities Convention Offers Growth Opportunities for Our Township Team

Each November, thousands of elected officials, municipal professionals, and business leaders from across New Jersey come together in Atlantic City for the annual New Jersey State League of Municipalities (NJLM) Convention. The League Convention is one of the most valuable opportunities we have each year to make sure Middle Township receives the resources, knowledge, and partnerships necessary to thrive.

Small towns like ours operate with limited staff and budgets. We take great pride in being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, but that responsibility comes with a constant challenge: how do we continue to improve services without placing additional burden on residents? 

The NJLM Convention helps us find those solutions.

First and foremost, the Convention is a classroom. Over the course of three days, our governing body and key employees attend workshops on issues that matter directly to Middle Township — emergency management, affordable housing requirements, economic development tools, stormwater regulations, recreational programming, and more. State agencies are on hand to provide guidance on new mandates or grant opportunities. We learn from experts, we hear from peers who have implemented successful programs, and we come home with fresh ideas that can be put into action right away.

These sessions often spark the kinds of conversations that shape our policies and priorities for the coming year. A single panel discussion might highlight a best practice for public safety technology or a cost-saving method for infrastructure upgrades. When multiplied across every department, the knowledge we gain at the Convention has a direct and measurable return on investment.

The Convention is also a place where small-town voices are amplified. Middle Township, like many communities in Cape May County, faces unique coastal and regional concerns from flood mitigation to tourism impacts to aging infrastructure. When we gather with leaders from across the state, we ensure our issues are recognized in Trenton. We meet face-to-face with state legislators, agency officials, and policy advocates to make sure they understand what our residents need and how state decisions affect towns like ours.

Relationship-building is another critical benefit. Whether we’re connecting with potential engineering or technology vendors, speaking with nonprofit organizations, or coordinating with federal and state partners, the networking that occurs at the Convention often leads to tangible outcomes. When we collaborate with communities from every region of New Jersey, we grow stronger. We learn that the challenges we face are often shared and the solutions can be shared too. A grant opportunity might arise because of a conversation held over a cup of coffee. A shared-service partnership may begin with a handshake on the convention floor. Solutions are found when people who share common goals sit down together.

As Mayor, my number one goal is to make sure Middle Township remains a safe, vibrant, and affordable place to live, work, and raise a family. The NJ League of Municipalities Convention is one of the tools that helps us fulfill that promise. Each year, we return energized, educated, and equipped with new ideas that move our community forward.

That is why Middle Township proudly participates — because investing in knowledge and partnerships today ensures a brighter tomorrow for all who call this town home.

Chris Leusner

Mayor, Middle Township

October 6, 2025 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

1. Approval of Resolution acknowledging the resignation of Vilma Pombo as Environmental Commission Chairperson

2. Approval of Resolution appointing Sylvia Lockwood as Chairperson of the Environmental Commission

3. Approval of Resolution approving donation of time for a fellow employee

4. Approval of Resolution for payment of terminal leave – Jennifer Graham

5. Approval of Resolution supporting extension of a grant award from NJDOT for Magnolia Drive roadwork

6. Resolution approving Mobile Food Truck license

7. Resolution approving change orders for two ongoing projects

8. Approval of contract with Middle Township Ambulance Corp for supplemental emergency medical services

9. Resolution adopting updated Personnel Policy Manual and Handbook

10. Resolution supporting an application by Gunar Arenburg to the Cape May County Open Space Advisory Board

October 20, 2025 – Township Committee Work Session

Presentation and Discussion – Township Engineer Vince Orlando – Update to Gravel Pit Ordinance

October 20, 2025 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

1. Presentation by Mayor and Committee –October Employee of the Month Emily Bluhm

2. Acknowledgement of Retirement – Nancy McDevitt/Recreation Leader

3. Resolution approving the submittal a grant application with NJ DEP for a National Climate Solutions Grant

4. Resolution acknowledging affidavit of tax sale posting

5. Resolution authorizing shared services agreements with North Wildwood (Construction Official, CMC MUA (solid waste disposal and recycling services), Cape May County (resurfacing of Magnolia Drive)

6. Resolution approving Mobile Food Truck license

7. Approval of Resolution establishing a Tabulation Committee for two contracts – Police Uniforms and Janitorial Services

8. Resolution authorizing Request for Proposals – Landscaping Services and Public Relations Consultant

9. Resolution establishing the sales prices for purchase and sale agreements related to certain properties in the Indian Trail Redevelopment Area

10. Resolution authorizing the execution of an agreement between Middle Township, BLS Property Holdings LLC and B&l Marine Holdings related to development in Avalon Manor

11. Resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign a Treatment Works Application for 519 Stone Harbor Blvd.

Middle Township residents are encouraged to attend Township Committee meetings to share their thoughts, questions and concerns with Township Committee. 

Visit the Township website for information on meeting dates and times: https://middletownship.com/

Comings

Appointment of Sylvia Lockwood as Chairperson of Environmental Commission

Goings

Recognition of Vilma Pombo – stepping down as Chair of Environmental Commission

Retirement – Recreation – Nancy McDevitt

Emily Bluhm Named Middle Township October Employee of the Month

Emily Bluhm, an Account Clerk in the Township’s Finance Office has been chosen as the Middle Township Employee of the Month for October. Emily will be recognized by Mayor Leusner and Township Committee and the Township’s Public Meeting at 6pm on October 20th.

Emily joined the Middle Township team as a member of the Court staff before transferring to the Finance Office in October of 2023.

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How to Support Local Families in Need This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for giving—and as colder weather approaches, Middle Township is calling on residents to lend a helping hand to neighbors in need. Local charities and service organizations rely on community generosity to ensure every family can access essential food, warm clothing, and household items throughout the winter months.

 “Middle Township residents have always stepped up for one another, especially during the holidays,” Mayor Chris Leusner said. “A small donation can make a big difference. Together, we can ensure every family in our community feels supported and cared for today and every day.”

The Middle Township Food Pantry, located at 10 West Mechanic Street in Cape May Court House, continues to serve hundreds of families each month. Canned goods, pasta, cereal, peanut butter, and other shelf-stable items are always welcomed. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday during regular business hours.

Residents can also support The Branches Outreach Center, now operating at 1304 Route 47 South. This organization provides meals, hygiene items, warm clothing, and everyday essentials to the homeless and needy members of our community. Winter coats, gloves, hats, and socks are especially needed as temperatures fall. Donations are accepted daily.

The CCWI Vera Smith Community Food Pantry, located inside the Historic Whitesboro Grammar School at 100 East Main Street, welcomes donations of nonperishable food and select personal care items. Operated by the Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro, the pantry is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and is a vital resource serving families in the Whitesboro area.

The Cape May County Department of Social Services, at 4005 Route 9 South, accepts non-perishable food, toiletries, and new blankets year-round to help supplement emergency assistance programs.

Families wishing to help local students can donate to the Middle Township School District Care Closets, located in each school building. These closets provide children with access to food, warm clothing, and hygiene essentials. Contact your child’s school for drop-off details.

This holiday season, Middle Township encourages every resident to give what they can. Even a small contribution can make a lasting difference for a family this winter.

Middle Township, NJ – The Middle Township Committee has approved a four-year extension of its Shared Services Agreement with the City of North Wildwood for Construction Official services, continuing a partnership that has proven both cost-effective and operationally successful for local taxpayers.

Under the renewed agreement, North Wildwood Construction Official Dan Speigel will continue to serve Middle Township on a part-time basis through December 31, 2029. The collaboration was first established in 2022 under New Jersey’s Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act, which allows municipalities to pool resources and share qualified personnel to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Middle Township Deputy Mayor Ike Gandy, who oversees the Township’s Construction and Zoning Department, said the partnership has delivered strong results for both communities.

“This shared services agreement has been a win-win for Middle Township and North Wildwood,” said Gandy. “It gives us access to an experienced and certified Construction Official while keeping administrative costs low for our residents. We’re proud to continue this collaboration—it’s a great example of how shared services can make government more efficient and responsive.”

The agreement calls for Middle Township to compensate North Wildwood for Mr. Speigel’s services with annual payments as follows:

• 2026: $79,019

• 2027: $82,970

• 2028: $87,118

• 2029: $91,474

The resolution authorizes the Mayor and Township Clerk to execute the agreement contingent upon similar approval by the City of North Wildwood. Either party may terminate the agreement with 30 days’ written notice.

Mayor and Committee members noted that the shared services model continues to align with Middle Township’s long-standing commitment to fiscal responsibility and intergovernmental cooperation across Cape May County.

Middle Township Hosts Free Rabies Clinic on Saturday, November 15

Middle Township, NJ — Middle Township will hold a free rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, November 15, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at the Public Works Garage.

Residents can help protect their furry friends by getting them vaccinated at one of Middle Township’s free rabies clinics for dogs and cats.

“Rabies is a deadly disease and prevention is the key to effective control,” said Middle Township Mayor Chris Leusner. “The most effective prevention is to have your cats and dogs vaccinated and to keep vaccinations current.”

Location: Middle Township Public Works Garage – 400 W. Mechanic Street, CMCH

Date & Time: Saturday, November 15 • 10:00–11:00 a.m.

Cost: Free

• Open to Cape May County residents; no appointment required.

• Dogs must be leashed and cats must be in secure carriers.

• Bring prior rabies certificates if available; this may determine eligibility for a multi-year vaccination.

• Owners must be able to safely handle and restrain their animals.

Rabies is a serious public health concern, and keeping pets vaccinated helps protect families and the community. The Township encourages residents to take advantage of this convenient, no-cost clinic.

For more information call (609) 465-8732

www.middletownship.com

Middle Township Garden Club Announces Two Festive Holiday Fundraisers

The Middle Township Garden Club is welcoming the holiday season with two family-friendly community fundraisers designed to bring neighbors together and brighten the winter months.

First, residents are invited to get creative at a Christmas Wreath Workshop on December 3, 2025, led by local floral designer Karin Parker of Blooms. The workshop will take place at Volunteer Fire Company #1, 112 Hand Ave., Cape May Court House. For $75 per person, participants will receive all the supplies needed to design their own festive wreath along with expert guidance from Karen. Light refreshments will also be offered.

The club is also launching a Holiday Luminary Kit Fundraiser, encouraging families across Middle Township to illuminate sidewalks and driveways on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, creating a warm and unified holiday display throughout the community. Each $20 luminary kit includes twelve battery-operated tea candles and holiday-themed luminary bags. Kits must be pre-purchased by November 19, and will be available for pickup on December 3 at Volunteer Fire Company #1.

Proceeds from both fundraisers will support future Garden Club projects that beautify public spaces and foster community pride.

Registration for both events is now open online at www.middletownship.recdesk.com. Space is limited and residents are encouraged to sign up soon and help make the season merry and bright!

Middle Moments: October 2025

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