All About the New Development Coming to Indian Trail

Fellow Middle Township Residents,

I wanted to take an opportunity in this May newsletter to share some important updates about the Indian Trail Redevelopment Project. Unfortunately, there has been a considerable amount of misinformation and distorted facts circulating about this initiative. This column is my effort to set the record straight. Middle Township is working diligently to create innovative public-private cooperation that responsibly addresses our court-ordered affordable housing obligations while delivering real and lasting benefits for our community.

Our township, like so many communities across New Jersey, is grappling with a serious housing shortage. Young families, teachers, police officers, healthcare workers, and retirees all want to call Middle Township home, but restrictions on development in New Jersey and rising costs have made that increasingly difficult. The Indian Trail project will bring approximately 340 new high-quality homes to the Burleigh section. The well-designed project will offer an attractive mix of single-family homes and townhouses developed by Ryan Homes.

What makes this project especially important is its strong affordable housing component. The development includes an 80-unit affordable rental section integrated seamlessly into the community. Combined with bonus credits, this will generate 160 credits toward our state mandated, Fourth Round fair share housing obligations. These units will provide meaningful opportunities for low- and moderate-income families right here in Middle Township, all while fully complying with state and federal affordability controls, including the required very-low-income set-aside. This represents genuine progress towards our court-ordered requirements through a mutually beneficial, public-private partnership.

We remain firmly committed to attracting quality developers who share our vision for responsible growth. After years of careful planning, this initiative will create new homes, support our workforce, fulfill our legal obligations, and generate significant new revenue. The sale of Township-owned properties to facilitate the construction will generate over $9 million in revenue to our hometown through phased payments. These funds will support services, infrastructure, and reserves, while the added ratables will help keep the municipal tax rate stable. Our analysis projects that the project will have a net positive impact on the Township’s bottom line, particularly as these housing units will appeal to retirees and empty nesters.

I know some residents have questions about the rare use of eminent domain in assembling this long-vacant, fragmented 225-acre site. Let me be clear, we approach the use of eminent domain with the utmost seriousness and respect for property rights. The site was designated as a Condemnation Redevelopment Area back in 2018, after a thoughtful study and analysis. Most of the land in question (34 out of 42 privately held lots) was acquired through voluntary agreements with willing sellers at fair market value.

In the few cases where eminent domain was used, it followed every requirement of New Jersey’s Eminent Domain Act precisely. We relied on independent professional appraisals, offered fair market value, and negotiated in good faith. Condemnation served primarily to clear complex title defects that prevented clean transfer of titles. Only three vacant, non-buildable lots held by one owner remain in dispute, and these are separated from each other and not adjacent to any occupied homes. 

Township Committee is unwavering in our commitment to due process. Property owners’ rights are protected at every step, with court oversight where needed. This measured approach has allowed us to transform an unproductive, checkerboard of lots, none of which contained homes or are buildable under current zoning, into what we envision as a diverse and vibrant neighborhood that enriches our community and improves our quality of life. 

This project is the result of years of thoughtful planning and collaboration with partners like the Estate of Thomas T. Tower and Atlantic-Cape Builders. It balances responsible growth with our rural character, goes a long way towards meeting our court-ordered obligations and positions Middle Township for a stronger future.

I’m proud of the progress we are making and grateful for your continued support as we strive to build a community where people of all backgrounds can thrive. Together, we’re creating opportunities for the next generation while protecting the unique, rural nature of Middle Township.

For more details and answers to commonly asked questions on the Indian Trail Redevelopment Project, please visit the informative FAQ link below. 

Chris Leusner

Mayor, Middle Township

May 4, 2026 - Township Committee Regular Meeting Agenda

1. Presentation – Employees of the Month of April – The Mayor and Committee recognized Officer Shawn Karge and Officer Tom Runyon as Employees of the Month for April.

2. Question/Answer Period on Agenda Items – The public was provided an opportunity to ask questions related specifically to items listed on the agenda.

3. Bill List A – General Bills – The Committee approved payment of $7,591,732.93 in general bills across Current Fund (PY and CY), Sewer Utility, General Capital, Grants, various Trust accounts, and other funds.

4. Approval of Minutes – The Committee approved the minutes from the April 20, 2026 Regular Meeting and Work Session.

5. Reports – No departmental reports were presented.

6. New Hires – The Committee appointed Jarrett Grimley, Avetik Avetisyan, and Darrel Hodges as full-time temporary Public Works laborers/carpenter’s helper at $15.92 per hour (effective late April/early May 2026) and Alexandra Trimble as full-time permanent Clerk 1 in Administration at $34,000 annually (effective May 12, 2026).

7. Department Change / Promotional Title Change – Francesca Trimble was transferred from Administration to Recreation as Program Coordinator at a salary of $42,000 effective May 18, 2026.

8. Acknowledgement of Resignations – The Committee acknowledged resignations from Brittany Welch (Environmental Commission member, effective April 15), Madelyn McCarroll (Animal Advisory member, effective April 22), and Grant Russ from three positions (Telephone Services Communications, Computer Coordinator Admin, and Computer Coordinator IT, all effective May 18).

9. Rescinding Resolution – The Committee rescinded Resolution 200-26, which had established a Tabulation Committee for Rear Parking Improvements to the Clarence and Georgiana Davies Complex.

10. Tabulation Committee Appointments – Township officials were appointed to tabulate bids for Township Hall Parking Lot ADA Improvements (bids due May 27, 2026) and Rear Parking Improvements to the Goshen Complex (bids due June 3, 2026).

11. Mobile Food Vendor Licenses – 2026 – The Committee approved licenses for Billy Scott (Westside Saloon) and Montel Pitt (Mont’s On Wheels).

12. Amending Personnel Policy Manual/Handbook – The Committee approved amendments to several sections of the adopted Personnel Policy Manual/Handbook.

13. Treatment Works Application – The Mayor was authorized to sign the Treatment Works Approval Permit Application, Statement of Consent, and related documents for Block 142, Lot 16 (205 Route 47 South).

14. Participation in Southern Coastal Regional Employee Benefits Fund – The Committee authorized the Township to become a member of the Southern Coastal Regional Employee Benefits Fund for health insurance coverage, adopted the Fund’s Bylaws, and committed to its four operating principles.

15. Appointing Fund Commissioner – Kimberly D. Osmundsen was appointed Fund Commissioner and Suzanne Schumann was appointed Alternate Fund Commissioner to the Southern Coastal Regional Employee Benefits Fund, effective July 1, 2026.

16. Award of Bid – Fence Improvements – The contract for Fence Improvements to the Goshen Complex was awarded to H4 Enterprises, LLC of Cape May Court House for $114,947.00.

17. Acceptance of “CMC Land of the Free, Celebration 250” Grant – The Committee accepted a $25,000 grant from Cape May County for patriotic events/programs, agreed to provide the required hard cash match, and authorized execution of the indemnification agreement and related documents.

18. Renewal of Shared Services Agreement – Animal Shelter Services – The Committee ratified a five-year shared services agreement with Cape May County for Animal Shelter services.

19. Transient Merchant Vendor License – A&T Ice – The Committee approved a transient merchant vendor license for A&T Ice to operate an ice cream truck in Middle Township from May 4 through December 31, 2026.

20. Change Orders (Items A–D) – The Committee approved Change Orders for H4 Enterprises, LLC on the Goshen Complex improvements, increasing the amended contract amount to $4,249,617.63.

21. Engineer’s Report – The Township Engineer provided updates on ongoing projects and infrastructure matters.

22. Public Comment & Adjournment – The Committee opened the floor for public comment before adjourning the meeting.

May 18, 2026 – Township Committee Work Session - Canceled

May 18, 2026 - Township Committee Regular Meeting Agenda

1. Presentation – “CMC Land of the Free, Celebration 250” Grant Check – Cape May County Commissioner Leonard Desiderio presented the Township with the $25,000 grant check under the County’s patriotic events program.

2. Question/Answer Period on Agenda Items – The public was provided an opportunity to ask questions related specifically to items listed on the agenda.

3. Ordinance 1739-26 – Cap Bank – Following second reading, public hearing, and consideration for adoption, the Committee adopted an ordinance authorizing a 1.5% increase in the CY 2026 budget above the standard cap to be available in the current or next two succeeding years.

4. Public Hearing on Introduced Budget – A public hearing was held on the introduced 2026 municipal budget.

5. Self-Examination of Budget – The Committee adopted a resolution confirming that the 2026 budget meets all statutory requirements for self-examination by the governing body.

6. Adoption of 2026 Municipal Budget – The Committee formally adopted the Local Budget of the Township of Middle for the year 2026.

7. Reports – Departmental reports for the month of April were received from Zoning, Tax/Sewer Collector, and Sterbeck Harbor.

8. Ordinance 1740-26 – Bond Ordinance for 2026 Capital Improvements – Following second reading, public hearing, and consideration for adoption, the Committee adopted a bond ordinance appropriating $2,261,000 for various 2026 general capital improvements—including road improvements 

9. Ordinance 1741-26 – Hildreth Redevelopment Plan – Following second reading, public hearing, and consideration for adoption, the Committee adopted an ordinance approving the Redevelopment Plan for the Hildreth Redevelopment Area as recommended by the Planning Board.

10. Bill List A – General Bills – The Committee approved payment of $723,315.52 in general bills across Current Fund, Sewer Utility, General Capital, Sewer Capital, M.A.C., Forfeited Monies, Trust Other, Zoning Escrow, C.O.A.H., and Recreation Trust.

11. Bill List B – The Committee approved payment of $2,308.50 in additional bills from the Current Fund.

12. Approval of Minutes – The Committee approved the minutes from the May 4, 2026 Regular Meeting.

13. Insertion of Special Items of Revenue – The Committee authorized insertion of revenues and corresponding appropriations for a $25,000 Cape May County “Land of the Free, Celebration 250” grant; a $7,716.70 NJ Department of Law and Public Safety 2026 Summer Expansion Programs – Youth Camp grant; and a $4,200 NJ Division of Highway and Traffic Safety 2026 Click it or Ticket grant.

14. Accelerated Tax Sale – The Committee authorized an accelerated tax lien sale for 2026 (and prior year) delinquencies to be held December 16, 2026.

15. Award of Bids – Home Rehabilitation Program – Contracts were awarded to Buggy Construction LLC (contingent on certification of funds).

16. Release and Refund of Permits – The Committee authorized a $533.60 permit fee refund to Zenergy Solar and an $802.00 permit fee refund to Better Living Sun Rooms.

17. Acceptance of Grant Award – The Committee accepted a $7,716.70 Grant from the NJ Department of Law and Public Safety for the Middle Township Police Department’s 2026 Summer Expansion Program for at-risk youth.

18. Mobile Food Vendor Licenses – 2026 – The Committee approved licenses for Dean DeRitis (Cheezy D’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese) and Brian Jackson dba Jersey Jax Pizza, LLC (3 Guys Rolling Pies).

19. Creation of Lien on Property – The Committee imposed liens on three properties for costs of abating property maintenance violations (brush, weeds, debris).

20. Release of Trust Accounts – The Committee authorized release of remaining balances in various Trust Accounts upon request of the Zoning Officer.

21. Refund of Taxes – The Committee authorized a $3,919.16 refund to Joseph E. Jr. & Patricia A. Wilson for duplicate 2026 tax payments.

22. Social Affairs Permit – Travis Manion Foundation – The Committee approved a Social Affairs Permit for the Travis Manion Foundation to sell alcoholic beverages at an event on June 1, 2026 at Union League National.

23. Acknowledging Road Closure – ALS United Mid-Atlantic – The Committee supported and acknowledged the “Ride to Defeat ALS” event on June 13, 2026, including shoulder use of Indian Trail Road, Shunpike Road, Dias Creek Road, Goshen Road, and a portion of the Middle Township Bike Path (contingent on proper traffic controls and final approvals).

24. Reduction of Performance Bond – Jasick Group LLC – The performance guarantee for Block 163.01, Lot 227 was reduced following completion of $264,990 in improvements.

25. Change Orders – The Committee approved Change Orders for H4 Enterprises, LLC on the Goshen Complex improvements, amending the contract amount to $4,278,105.63.

26. Engineer’s Report – The Township Engineer provided updates on ongoing projects and infrastructure matters.

27. Public Comment & Adjournment – The Committee opened the floor for public comment before adjourning the meeting.

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/

Middle Township proudly presented Daniel Auld of Whitesboro with the Middle Matters Award at tonight’s Township Committee meeting for his outstanding years of community service and generosity.

Auld was nominated by Middle Township High School Principal Dr. Sharon Rementer, who highlighted his selfless dedication to supporting students, families, and community members in need. 

Owner of multiple food trucks, Dan has consistently stepped up to feed students, support families in need, help the homeless, and give back through school events and charitable causes. 

His journey of overcoming challenges and dedicating his life to service is truly inspiring.

“Dan Auld exemplifies the values that the Middle Matters Award was created to recognize,” said Mayor Chris Leusner.

Congratulations, Dan! Thank you for making Middle Township a better place.

Middle Township – Comings and Goings – May 2026

Coming – Welcome to the Middle Township Team

Public Works

Jarrett Grimley

Avetik Avetisyan

Darrel Hodges

Administration

Alexandra Trimble

Recreation

Francesca Trimble - transferred from Administration to Recreation as Program Coordinator

Going – Thank you for your service!

Volunteer Boards

Environmental Commission

Brittany Welch

Animal Advisory Board

Madelyn McCarroll

Middle Township invites residents and visitors to join a festive evening of patriotism, family fun, and community spirit as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Robert “Ockie” Wisting Recreation Complex in Rio Grande.

This special celebration honors the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and brings together music, food, entertainment, and patriotic traditions for all ages.

Highlights of the evening include:

• Live music by the Animal House Band
• A spectacular Fireworks & Drone Show beginning at 9:00 p.m.
• Delicious food trucks and vendors
• Kid’s entertainment, including facepainting, balloon artist, magician, and more
• Apple Pie Contest and 250th Celebration Cupcakes
• Kid’s Pie Eating Contest
• Patriotic Photo Opportunities
• Hometown Heroes Banner Ceremony

“Middle Township is proud to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with our community in a fun, family-friendly way,” said Mayor Chris Leusner. “This event at the Ockie Wisting Recreation Complex is a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to come together, honor our nation’s history, and create lasting memories right here in Rio Grande. We look forward to a night filled with music, laughter, great food, and a dazzling sky show that will light up the night in honor of our great country.”

The Robert “Ockie” Wisting Recreation Complex is located at 7 Fulling Mill Road, Rio Grande, NJ. Admission is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for comfortable viewing of the fireworks and drone show.

For the latest updates or to participate in contests and activities, visit the Middle Township website or Facebook page.

Click to watch video

At the May 4 Township Committee meeting, Corporal Shawn Karge and Officer Tom Runyon of the MTPD were officially recognized as the April 2026 Employees of the Month for their outstanding compassion and service.

During the major February snowstorm, these dedicated officers responded to a wellness check for elderly widow Helen M. Baker, who had been without power for four days. 

Not only did they check on her safety — they went above and beyond by shoveling her walkway, clearing snow from her car, leveling the area, and moving her vehicle for easier access. Their kindness made a lasting impact, as Ms. Baker shared in her heartfelt thank-you letter:

“I am writing this letter to compliment two of your police officers… It made me feel safe and so thankful for their concern. The Township is fortunate to have both men who represent our Township.”

Thank you, Shawn and Tom, for embodying the very best of public service and community spirit! 

A special thank you to Ms. Baker for taking the time to recognize their efforts.

The Middle Township High School Robotics Club students recently volunteered their time to help prepare the native garden areas at the Cape May County Zoo.

This project is part of a collaborative effort between the Middle Township Environmental Commission and the Cape May County Park/Zoo to highlight the importance of native plants for the community, visitors, pollinators, and local wildlife.

Thank you to these students for lending their time and energy to help get the gardens ready for the reveal.

Middle Township Committee has accepted a $7,716 grant from the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety to support the Middle Township Police Department’s 2026 Summer Youth Camp.

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Mayor Leusner had the honor of attending the Flags of Liberty Ceremony in Wildwood this past Friday. 

In a moving ceremony, Sheriff Bob Nolan presented the Sojourn 250 flag to veteran Bill Davenport, who then raised it over the Wildwood Vietnam Memorial.  

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Middle Township unanimously adopted the 2026 municipal budget following a public hearing at the May 18th Regular Meeting of Township Committee. The approved plan includes a $29.8 million Current Fund budget and a $6.7 million Sewer Utility budget. The fiscally responsible budget complies with all state tax levy and appropriations caps and features a modest 2.3-cent increase in the local-purpose tax rate.

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Middle Township extends its sincere appreciation to the Middle Township Police Department for hosting the Retiree Luncheon honoring our retired personnel. 

Mayor Leusner, attended the event and offered remarks to thank the retirees for their years of dedicated service to our community. 

To all of our retirees , thank you for your commitment and professionalism—you will always be part of the Middle Township family.

It is with deep sadness that Middle Township acknowledges the passing of Calvin L. Back Sr., a lifelong resident, dedicated public servant, and beloved community leader, who left us on May 6, 2026.

Thank you, Calvin. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire our community for years to come.

Rest in peace.

Middle Township unanimously adopted the 2026 municipal budget following a public hearing at the May 18th Regular Meeting of Township Committee. The approved plan includes a $29.8 million Current Fund budget and a $6.7 million Sewer Utility budget. The fiscally responsible budget complies with all state tax levy and appropriations caps and features a modest 2.3-cent increase in the local-purpose tax rate.

Read More

Congratulations to the winners of the 22nd Annual Middle Township Drum Fish Tournament, held May 15–17, 2026, on the Delaware Bay.

The tournament raised approximately $10,000 for the Middle Township Recreation Department to support youth and community recreation programs.

2026 Winners:

1st Place: Turk Daddy – 134.8 lbs  

2nd Place: Determined – 121.4 lbs  

3rd Place: Steadfast – 113.4 lbs  

Women’s Division: Heather Johnson – 48.3 lbs  

Kid’s Division: Lillian Norton – 46.7 lbs

Thank you to all anglers, captains, sponsors, volunteers, and local businesses who made this year’s event a success. Awards will be presented at the June 1st Township Committee Meeting.

Cape May County Board of Commissioners Director Leonard C. Desiderio and Commissioner Patrick Rosenello presented Middle Township Committee with a $25,000 award to support the Township’s plans for a memorable schedule of events commemorating America’s 250th Birthday. 

The generous grant is funded through the county’s Celebrate America 250 program. The program will support patriotic celebrations in all sixteen county municipalities.

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