Mayor’s Column: Code Blue and Our Commitment to Caring

Winter in Cape May County can be unpredictable and unforgiving. When temperatures drop overnight, the cold becomes more than an inconvenience—it can be a serious danger for individuals who are unsheltered. That is why Middle Township is committed to participating in the Code Blue program.

Code Blue is a cold-weather emergency response designed to protect lives. When dangerous winter conditions are forecast, overnight shelter and warming options are activated so that people without housing are not left exposed to life-threatening temperatures. At its core, Code Blue is about safety, dignity, and compassion.

Middle Township does not do this work alone. Our Code Blue response is a partnership with Cape May County and Lower Township, along with dedicated nonprofit, faith-based, and community organizations that step up when the need is greatest. Each partner plays an important role, whether it is funding, coordination, staffing, transportation, or providing a warm, safe place for the night. That teamwork ensures help is available when it matters most.

I want residents to know that Code Blue is not about politics or labels. It is about people. It reflects a shared belief that no one in our community should face extreme cold without help. When Code Blue is activated, our goal is simple: make sure vulnerable individuals have a safe option and a chance to get through the night.

Just as important, Code Blue reflects Middle Township’s broader commitment to a compassionate, responsible approach to community challenges. Emergency shelter during cold weather is not a permanent solution to homelessness, but it is a necessary and humane response to immediate danger. By working closely with the County and our neighboring municipalities, we are able to respond quickly and effectively while continuing to support longer-term efforts that address housing and supportive services.

I am proud of the way Middle Township works in partnership with Cape May County and Lower Township to protect our most vulnerable neighbors during the winter months. It is a quiet effort that does not always make headlines, but it reflects the values of our community. We strive to look out for one another and do the right thing when conditions demand it.

As always, I encourage residents to stay informed during severe weather and to reach out for assistance if they see someone who may be at risk. Together, through cooperation and compassion, we can ensure that everyone in our community has the chance to stay safe during the coldest nights of the year.

Cape May County Emergency Alerts: You can sign up for emergency notifications (including Code Blue advisories) through the Cape May County Alert Center. These alerts list the dates/times of Code Blue activations as soon as they are declared by the County Office of Emergency Management. 

Cape May County Division of Social Services - (609) 886-6200 ext. 2434 Available Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM for shelter options during Code Blue. Additional resources are available by calling 2-1-1.

Additional information regarding the "Code Blue" advisory can be found on the Cape May County website. https://capemaycountynj.gov/

Chris Leusner

Mayor, Middle Township

January 5, 2026 – Annual Reorganization of Township Committee


1. Swearing-in of Committeeman James Norris for a three-year term, administered by Michael J. Donohue, Esq. (former Superior Court Judge).

2. Selection of Mayor for 2026 by motion/roll call; Mayor sworn in by Michael Donohue.

3. Selection of Deputy Mayor for 2026 by motion/roll call; Deputy Mayor sworn in by Michael Donohue.

4. Ordinance 1733-26 introduced (1st reading) establishing employee/officer compensation and longevity pay structure; second reading/public hearing scheduled February 2, 2026.

5. Approved Bill List A (general bills) totaling $3,782,892.53 across Current Fund, grants, escrows, trust funds, and other accounts.

6. Fair & Open contracts awarded (professional services) including:

• Risk Management Consultant: Marsh & McLennan Agency (NTE $30,000)
• Municipal Solicitor: Rooney & Donohue (NTE $195,000)
• Labor Solicitor: Paul J. Baldini, Esq. (NTE $75,000)
• Auditor: Ford, Scott & Associates LLC / Leon Costello (NTE $58,500)
• Prosecutor: Blaney, Weinberg & Curcio, P.C. / Catherine Boggie (NTE $46,000)
• Public Defender: Seth Fuscellaro (NTE $18,600)
• Grants Consultant: Blauer & Associates / Marc Blauer (NTE $3,600)
• Bond Counsel: Archer & Greiner (NTE $35,000)

7. Non-Fair & Open contracts ratified/awarded (Pay-to-Play) including:

• Phoenix Advisors, LLC (Continuing Disclosure Agent / IRMA)
• Testa, Heck, Testa & White, P.A. (Labor & Employment Counsel) (NTE $17,500)
• Maley Givens, Counsellors at Law (Redevelopment Counsel) (Total $50,000)
• Surenian, Edwards, Buzak & Nolan, LLC (Affordable Housing Counsel) (NTE $17,500)
• H&L Systems, Inc. (Billing software/hosting/backup) (NTE $12,500)
• Van Note Harvey (Tax map maintenance) (NTE $17,300)
• Boudwin Ross Roy Leodori P.C. (In Rem foreclosure preparation) (NTE $17,500)

8. Landscaping Services contract awarded to Douglass Landscaping Services, LLC (Year 1: $252,312.00; 1-year term with two 1-year options; contingent on funding).

9. Authorized purchasing through State Contract vendors for the balance of 2026.

10. Authorized purchasing through U.S. Communities cooperative when purchases exceed the bid threshold.

11. Adopted the Township Cash Management Plan for 2026.

12. Adopted a 2026 Temporary Budget:

• Current Fund: $9,275,843.89

• Sewer Utility Fund: $1,532,195.00

15. Adopted a 2026 Temporary Debt Service Budget:

• Current Fund debt service: $1,560,000.00

• Sewer Utility debt service: $1,797,000.00

• Trust Assessment Fund principal: $70,000.00

16. Adopted Salary Resolution for 2026 - salaries on file in Clerk’s Office; consistent with Ordinance 1733-26.

17. Established bi-weekly paydays and payroll account for 2026

18. Designated 2026 banking depositories and authorized signatories for Township accounts.

19. Authorized the CFO (Neil Young) to invest Township funds during 2026.

20. Established departmental change funds totaling $1,300.00 across Tax, Construction, Court, Zoning, etc.

21. Authorized submission of FY2027 Municipal Alliance grant plan:

• Grant: $13,511.00

• Cash match: $3,377.75

• In-kind: $10,133.25

22. Ratified Shared Services Agreements for School Resource Officers with:

• Cape May County Special Services School District (7/1/26–6/30/29)

• Cape May County Vocational Technical School District (7/1/26–6/30/29)

23. Accepted a performance bond from BLS Property Holdings LLC / B&L Marine Holdings LLC in the amount of $460,290.40.

24. Approved tax cancellations for qualified 100% disabled veteran exemptions.

25. Approved a tax refund to Susan Brady for 2025 taxes paid on an exempt property -$714.96.

26. Accepted a grant award for Savor the Arts through the County cultural re-grant program - $7,030.00.

27. Personnel appointments approved - Public Works laborers: Justin Warner; Luciano Orlando; effective 12/15/25.

28. Annual appointments/reappointments approved for numerous boards/positions (Township officers, boards, advisory bodies, committees, and alternates; terms as listed).

29. Acknowledged resignations:

• Dustin Sturm -Recreation Director

• Katrina Born - Construction Clerk 2

30. Approved promotional title changes in Recreation:

• Michael Schultz to Director of Parks & Recreation (in-house title)

• Samuel Caraballo to Assistant Director / P/T Program Coordinator

31. Ratified agreements:

• Agreement with Tracey Super, Chief of Police (effective 1/1/26)

• Agreement with PBA Local 59 – Superior Officers Association

32. Assigned 2026 departmental portfolios among the Committee members (Leusner / Gandy / Norris)

33. Authorized Tax Assessor/Collector actions for 2026 tax appeals, including authority to sign/defend/settle appeals.

34. Established 2026 meeting schedule and notice procedures, including:

• Designated newspapers for notices

• Regular meeting nights and work session nights

• Board of Health quarterly meeting dates

35. Extended 2026 tax-quarter grace periods - delinquency dates moved to the 10th of Feb/May/Aug/Nov; interest rates reaffirmed.

36. Adopted the 2026 holiday schedule for Township operations.

37. Designated official newspaper/public notice process for Jan 1–Feb 28, 2026, and noted shift to website posting beginning March 1, 2026.

38. Adopted Weather/Transportation Policy - employee reporting expectations and leave-time rules during closures/delays.

39. Adopted elected official training requirement 

40. Renewed campground licenses for 2026 

41. Renewed mobile home park licenses for 2026 

42. Approved minutes of the December 15, 2025 Regular Meeting.

43. Accepted/ratified tax sale posting affidavit documenting required notices and postings for the December 17, 2025 tax sale.

44. Ratified lease agreement with Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro for MLK Center office space -1/1/26–12/31/26; contingent on insurance approval.

45. Appointed Cape Harbour LLC as Conditional Redeveloper and authorized execution of an MOU for exclusive negotiations (180-day period) for redevelopment of the identified property.

January 21, 2026 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

1. Redevelopment Discussion – Hildreth Center – Cardile Tract Ordinance 

2. Repeal of Rent Control Board Ordinance


January 21, 2026 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

1. Middle Matters Award Presentation

The Mayor and Township Committee presented the Middle Matters Award to Chrissy Casiello, recognizing her civic contributions to the community.

2. Approval of Bill List A (General Bills)

The Township Committee approved payment of $991,863.88 across multiple funds, including Current Fund, Sewer Utility, General Capital, Grants, Trust accounts, and Recreation Trust.

3. Approval of Bill List B (General Bills)

The Township Committee approved additional payments totaling $4,873.75 from the Current Fund (prior year).

4. Approval of Meeting Minutes

The Committee approved the minutes of the January 5, 2026 Reorganization Meeting.

5. Acceptance of Monthly Reports

The Township accepted reports from the Tax/Sewer Collector, Sterbeck Harbor, and the Municipal Clerk for December 2025.

6. First Reading of Ordinance No. 1734-26 (Rent Control Repeal)

The Committee adopted Ordinance 1734-26 on first reading, repealing Article II of Chapter 175 (Mobile Home Rent Control) due to State preemption.

• Second reading/public hearing: February 18, 2026

• Ordinance effective: March 1, 2026

7. Acknowledgement of Resignations

The Committee formally acknowledged resignations from:

Sydnee Speigel (Construction Clerk 1)

Timothy O’Brien (Recreation Aide, Permanent P/T)

Brittany Welch (Environmental Commission Member)

8. Change in Employment Status

The Committee approved the change of Sydney Greer from temporary part-time to permanent part-time Recreation Aide, effective January 1, 2026.

9. Ratification of Employee Assistance Program Agreement

The Township ratified a 12-month Employee Assistance Program agreement with AllOne Health Well LLC at an annual cost of $3,735.70.

10. Confirmation of Land Sale

The Committee confirmed the results of a public land sale held on September 24, 2025, and authorized conveyance of properties to the highest bidders.

11. Ratification of Lease – Marine Corps League

The Committee ratified a 2026 lease agreement allowing the Marine Corps League to use the Middle Township Senior Citizen Center, contingent upon insurance approval.

12. Award and Ratification of Engineering Contracts (Non-Fair & Open)

The Committee:

• Ratified the Sewer Engineer contract with DeBlasio & Associates (NTE $17,500)

• Awarded a second contract to DeBlasio & Associates for NJ Infrastructure Bank / FY2026 Clean Water applications (NTE $220,000)

13. Approval of Change Order No. 3 – ADA Restrooms Project

The Committee approved a $16,750 increase to the Massett Building Company contract, bringing the amended project total to $272,466.67.

14. Request for County Speed Survey & Traffic Study

The Committee formally requested that Cape May County conduct a speed survey and full traffic study along Millman Boulevard.

15. Release of Trust Account Balances

The Committee authorized the release of remaining balances from various Trust Accounts upon request of the Zoning Officer.

16. Authorization to Apply for NJ Law Enforcement Wellness Grant

The Committee authorized submission of a 2026 NJLEWRG grant application to improve the Middle Township Police Department’s Physical Fitness Hub.

17. Approval of Mobile Food Vendor License (2026)

The Committee approved a 2026 Mobile Food Vendor license for S&H Cuisine dba The Beast, owned by Daniel Auld.

18. Authorization of Verizon Settlement Agreement

The Mayor and Clerk were authorized to execute a final settlement agreement with Verizon New Jersey Inc., as approved by counsel.

19. Transfer of 2025 Budget Appropriation Reserves

The Committee approved transfers within the 2025 Current Fund to address outstanding prior-year obligations.

20. Establishment of Purchase Price – Indian Trail Redevelopment Area

The Committee established a $6,250 purchase price for Block 199, Lot 3, authorizing acquisition under the Indian Trail Redevelopment Plan.

21. Renewal of Towing Licenses (2026)

The Committee renewed towing licenses for:

• Gary’s Automotive

• South Jersey Towing & Recovery LLC

• D.A.D.’S Towing Service

22. Appointment of Bid Tabulation Committee

Township officials were appointed to tabulate bids for ADA Improvements to the Clarence & Georgiana Davies Complex, scheduled for February 18, 2026.

23. Authorization for Closed Session

The Committee voted to enter closed session for contract negotiations and pending litigation involving Garden State Outdoor, LLC v. Zoning Board of Adjustment of Middle Township, with potential formal action afterward.


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/

Committeeman James Norris Sworn for a Third Term

Middle Township, NJ — Middle Township Committeeman James Norris was sworn in to his third three-year term on Township Committee during the annual Reorganization Meeting held January 5, 2026, at the Middle Township Municipal Building.

The Swearing In Ceremony began with the Presentation of the Colors and Flag Salute by the Middle Township Police Honor Guard. The National Anthem was performed by Middle Township High School student Andi Glassford. MTPD Police Chaplain Scott Durbin lead the Invocation prayer. 

CapeGOP Chairman and former Superior Court Judge Michael J. Donohue administered the oath to Norris before a crowded Town Hall meeting room of family, friends, and supporters.

Norris, who has served on the governing body since 2020, expressed deep gratitude for the continued confidence of Middle Township voters.

“Serving the people of Middle Township is one of the greatest honors of my life,” Norris said. “Our good work continues because we all work together. Our elected officials, township staff, volunteer board members and residents are all committed to making this community stronger. I’m ready to get back to work.”

Mayor Chris Leusner was unanimously selected once again to serve as Mayor in 2026 and Committeeman Ike Gandy will remain as Deputy Mayor. Chairman Donohue administered the oath of office for both Committeeman. 

Mayor Leusner congratulated Norris and emphasized the governing body’s shared vision for the community.

“Jim Norris brings experience, steady leadership, and a deep passion for serving Middle Township,” Leusner said. “We are a united team here in Middle. As mayor, I am fortunate to continue working alongside Jim and Ike to keep Middle Township safe, affordable, and a great place to raise a family.”

Appointments, contracts, and board assignments for 2026 were approved as required by statute to begin the new municipal year.

2026 Committee Department Assignments

Committeeman James Norris — Director

• Collection of Taxes

• Assessment of Taxes

• Recreation

• Senior Citizen Affairs

• Special Events

• Memory Lane Cemetery

• Open Space Projects


Mayor Christopher Leusner — Director

• Administrative Executive

• Police Department

• Legal Services

• Municipal Court

• Volunteer Fire Company Liaison

• Finance Administration

• Human Resources & Training


Deputy Mayor Ike Gandy — Director

• Department of Public Works

• Sewer & Water

• Zoning

• Construction

• Engineering

• Buildings & Grounds

• Economic Development & Grants


The governing body reaffirmed its commitment to strong fiscal management, infrastructure investment, recreation and open space expansion, and support for residents of all ages.

“We have a full agenda and real opportunities ahead,” Deputy Mayor Gandy added. “I echo the sentiments of my fellow Committeemen. We pledge to continue to work as a united governing body, along with our great staff, to make 2026 a year of continued, positive progress for every resident of Middle Township.”

Comings

MTPD - Class 2 Officers - Austin Kapurelos, Caleb Lewis, Jimmy Champlin Jr., Kadin Blasi, Francis Cuomo Jr., and Matthew Rogowski.

Recreation Department - Michael Schultz - Director of Parks and Recreation

Goings
Thank you for your service and commitment to the people of Middle Township

Recreation Department - Dustin Sturm, Timothy O'Brien

Construction and Zoning Office - Katrina Born, Sydnee Speigel

Environmental Commission - Brittany Welch

Middle Township, New Jersey

At seventy-two square miles, Middle Township is the largest town in Cape May County. The Township is home to approximately 20,000 residents (latest population estimates), making it the second most populous municipality in Cape May County and a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and residential development.

Middle Township continues to promote quality, responsible economic development through well-designed zoning, planning, and construction processes. A well-run town attracts and retains well-run businesses, and in 2025 the Township saw strong evidence of that principle in action, with a diverse mix of new retail, service, medical, and recreational investments.

Equally important, the Township remains committed to a sound, long-range housing strategy that balances growth with affordability while preserving the community’s unique rural character. This approach supports both economic vitality and quality of life for residents.

New Businesses and Openings in 2025


During 2025, Middle Township welcomed a wide range of new and relocated businesses, reflecting continued confidence in the local economy:

• JP Morgan Chase

• Carter’s Kids

• Blue Fin Capital – 514 North Wildwood Blvd. (conversion of existing building into storage units and construction of a new rear storage building)

• INSA – 1580 Route 9 North (cannabis dispensary)

• Anzelone Electric – 1102 Route 9 South

• Adventure Nook – Grapevine Plaza

• Tint Color Bar (relocated within the Township)

• Rock of Ages Tattoo Parlor – Grapevine Plaza

• Dink It Pickleball – 1027 Route 9 South (indoor pickleball facility)

• Wingstop – 3201 Route 9 South

• Poppin Bob – 20 Court House–South Dennis Road

• Harbor Coffee – 151 Route 47

• Greens & Grains – 5 Court House–South Dennis Road

• Bath & Body Works – 1500 Route 47, Unit C8

• Cold Bowl – 1612 Route 47

• AT&T – next to Chipotle in Cape May Court House

• Tacos by the Shore (formerly Hidden Level Games)

• Jersey Mike’s Subs – 11 Court House–South Dennis Road

• 7 Brew – Route 9


These additions strengthen Middle Township’s retail base, expand dining and recreation options, and create new local employment opportunities.


Projects Underway

Several significant public and private projects advanced during 2025 and into early 2026:

• Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office

• AtlantiCare Medical Offices – Route 9 (near AMI), having received final approval

• Cape May Court House McDonald’s – complete renovation

These projects reflect continued investment in public safety, healthcare access, and reinvestment in existing commercial properties.

Upcoming and Approved Development Projects

Middle Township is also preparing for substantial residential growth that supports housing demand while incorporating affordability and thoughtful design.


Single-Family and Multi-Family Housing Projects:

• Stone Harbor Lakes and Townhouses at Stone Harbor Golf Club – 194 permits issued out of 202 approved

• BGJ1 LLC – 509 Rio Grande Avenue, Rio Grande – final approval for 128 garden apartments in 11 buildings, including up to 26 affordable housing units

• Avalon Marina Subdivision – 18-lot major subdivision

• DR Horton – construction of 63 townhouses behind Old 7 Mile Brewery

• Coral Point – off Dias Creek, 116 multi-family townhouse residential units

These projects advance the Township’s obligation to provide housing opportunities for a range of incomes while supporting orderly growth.


Looking Ahead

“Middle Township’s 2025 economic development activity underscores a consistent strategy: encourage investment, protect community character, and plan responsibly for the future,” Mayor Chris Leusner said. “ By pairing business growth with infrastructure planning and housing policy, the Township is positioning itself for continued success in 2026 and beyond. This strategy ensures that Middle Township will remain a desirable place to live, work, and do business.

Middle Matters Award



Mayor Leusner and Township Committee were proud to honor Chrissy Casiello for her outstanding contributions to the youth of Middle Township and Cape May County through her tireless work with No Limits Academy in Rio Grande. 

A full house of supporters and students, led by No Limits Academy founder Josh Mercado, were on hand to recognize Chrissy’s amazing work! 

Goshen Recreation Complex Improvement Project

As we enter the new year, significant progress continues on major improvements to the fields and irrigation systems at the Davies Sports Complex in Goshen.

For everyone’s safety, please continue to avoid entering the construction zone at all times.

Bike Path Closure - Atlantic City Electric Project Update


Contractors for Atlantic City Electric have now closed a section of the bike path in Middle and Dennis Townships from Goshen Rd to Main Street in South Seaville to continue work on an ACE reliability improvement project.  

This section of the path will be closed until further notice.  

The Township will provide updates to residents as the work progresses.

Mayor Leusner and Township Committee were proud to recognize Public Works Carpenter Chris Muldoon as our January 2026 Employee of the Month!

Chris joined the Middle Township Team in 2024.

Chris received a joint nomination for the award from the Township’s Zoning & Construction Office and Public Property Manager Grant Russ. Read More..

Mayor Chris Leusner and Committeeman Jim Norris joined the Middle Township Ambulance Corps for their annual Installation Banquet. Mayor Leusner had the honor of swearing in the Board of Officers.

The event was well attended by many community leaders, including Congressman Jeff Van Drew, Assemblyman Antwan McClellan, Assemblyman Erik Simonsen, Cape May County Surrogate Marie Hayes, and Cape May County Commissioner Melanie Collette.

Middle Township extends its gratitude to the Ambulance Corps members for their ongoing dedication and service to our residents.

We thank all who serve to keep our community safe and wish the newly installed officers a successful term.

The Middle Township Police Department would like to congratulate and welcome our six newest Class 2 Police Officers; Ptl. Austin Kapurelos, Caleb Lewis, Jimmy Champlin Jr., Kadin Blasi, Francis Cuomo Jr., and Matthew Rogowski.

We are very proud of how they performed during their training. Out of 81 recruits, Ptl. Champlin Jr. placed 3rd in academics. Ptl. Cuomo Jr. received the Merit award, 2nd place for the directors award/overall, and 3rd place in firearms.

Please join us in congratulating them on graduating from the Cape May County Police Academy! Stay safe!

Middle Moments: Year 2026

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