The Mayor's Column

 Investing Wisely in Middle Township’s Future – Our 2026 Budget and Capital Plan


Fellow Middle Township Residents,


As we move through spring 2026, I am proud to share important updates on how your governing body is planning for the year ahead. On April 13th, Township Committee introduced our 2026 municipal budget and a comprehensive capital improvement bond ordinance. These documents reflect our ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility, smart planning, and delivering the services and infrastructure our diverse community requires.


First, let’s talk about our 2026 Capital Improvement Plan. 


We introduced an ordinance that authorizes $2,261,000 in critical investments across the township. Of that total, $107,670 comes from our existing Capital Improvement Fund payments. The balance of $2,153,330 will be financed through general obligation bonds or bond anticipation notes. This approach allows us to spread the cost of major projects responsibly over time while delivering immediate benefits to our residents, visitors and businesses.


These funds will support:


• $800,000 for Road Improvements – including milling, paving, reconstruction, drainage, curbing, and safety enhancements on various township roads.

• $580,000 for Buildings and Grounds – upgrades at the Goshen Recreation Complex, Town Hall parking lot resurfacing, security improvements, and enhancements to the Martin Luther King Center Playground.

• $544,000 for Vehicles and Equipment – a new Public Works truck with plow and spreader, utility vehicles, landscaping equipment, and HVAC replacements.

• $202,000 for Public Safety – essential police equipment including radios, computer systems, and speed radar signs.

• $135,000 for Information Technology – township-wide upgrades to hardware, office equipment, and filing systems.


We designed these projects to directly improve our roads, facilities, public safety capabilities, and technology infrastructure. If we receive grants from federal, state, county, or private sources, we can reduce the bonding amount accordingly. 


On the operating side, we introduced a $29.8 million Current Fund budget and a $6.7 million Sewer Utility budget. This plan stays fully compliant with New Jersey’s strict tax levy and appropriations caps. It includes a modest 2.3-cent increase in the local-purpose tax rate. For the average residential property assessed at $264,071, this translates to about $60.74 more per year, or roughly $15.19 per quarter.


We faced real cost pressures this year: contractual salary increases of $363,000, rising health insurance premiums of $350,000, higher debt service and capital costs, increased trash/recycling contract expenses, and more. We also lost some revenue from expiring agreements and adjusted land-sale projections.

We are addressing these challenges responsibly. Our township surplus has reached a record $6,867,883, and we will strategically use a portion of it. Strong growth in ratables ($74 million increase), steady revenue from licenses, fees, hotel taxes, construction and new cash flow from our local cannabis tax (projected at $95,000) all help. Personnel adjustments and retirements were also a positive factor in limiting spending increases. 


This budget and capital plan represent the kind of balanced, forward-thinking leadership Middle Township deserves. I want to thank Administrator Kimberly Osmundsen, CFO Neil Young, and all our dedicated department heads for their tremendous work in putting this responsible plan together.

We are investing in public safety, upgraded facilities, modern equipment, safer roads, improved technolgy and quality municipal services while keeping taxes as affordable and stable as possible. Through careful planning, efficiency and strategic use of our healthy surplus we are positioning Middle Township for sustainable growth and attracting quality economic development.


Please join us on Monday, May 18th at 6:00 p.m. for the public hearing and final consideration of both the budget and capital ordinance. Your input matters.


Together, we are keeping Middle Township financially strong to ensure a brighter future for our residents and businesses. 


Chris Leusner

Mayor, Middle Township

THE AGENDA

A monthly recap of important actions taken by Township Committee

April 13, 2026 - Township Committee Meeting Agenda


1. Employee of the Month – March – The Mayor and Township Committee recognized Stanley Curry as Employee of the Month for March.


2. Question & Answer on Agenda Items – The Committee provided an opportunity for the public to ask questions limited to items listed on the agenda.


3. Bill List A – General Bills – The Committee approved $3,548,802.13 in payments across multiple funds, including Current, Sewer, Capital, Grants, Escrow, COAH, and Recreation Trust accounts.


4. Bill List B – General Bills – The Committee approved an additional $3,186.75 in Current Fund payments.


5. Approval of Minutes – The Committee approved the March 16, 2026, Regular Meeting, Work Session, and Board of Health minutes.


6. Department Reports – The Committee received monthly reports from Zoning, Tax/Sewer Collector, Sterbeck Harbor, and the Clerk.


7. Ordinance 1736-26 – Hildreth Village Inclusionary Housing – Following public hearing and second reading, the Committee adopted amendments to the Hildreth Village zoning district establishing a mandatory 20% affordable housing set-aside for townhouse and multi-family developments.


8. Ordinance 1737-26 – Fire Prevention Code Amendments – The Committee adopted amendments designating Middle Township Fire District No. 1 as the Township-wide local enforcing agency for the Uniform Fire Code.


9. Ordinance 1739-26 – Cap Bank Ordinance (First Reading) – The Committee introduced an ordinance to increase the 2026 budget up to 3.5% under the Local Government Cap Law and established a cap bank.


10. Ordinance 1740-26 – 2026 Capital Bond Ordinance (First Reading) – The Committee introduced a $2,261,000 capital ordinance authorizing $2,153,330 in bonds or notes for road improvements, buildings and grounds, vehicles and equipment, public safety equipment, and IT upgrades.


11. Ordinance 1741-26 – Hildreth Redevelopment Plan (First Reading) – The Committee introduced an ordinance adopting a redevelopment plan for Block 1438.01, Lots 3, 4, and 4.01 within the Hildreth Redevelopment Area.


12. 2026 Budget Presentation – Leon Costello (Ford Scott & Associates) and CFO Neil Young presented the 2026 Municipal Budget overview.


13. EEOC Compliance Certification – The Committee certified compliance with federal EEOC guidance regarding consideration of arrest and conviction records in employment decisions.


14. Introduction of 2026 Budget by Title – The Committee formally introduced the 2026 Municipal Budget by title.


15. Public Hearing – Liquor License Transfer – A public hearing was held regarding the person-to-person transfer of Plenary Retail Consumption License No. 0506-33-001-009.


16. Approval of Liquor License Transfer – The Committee approved transfer of the liquor license from TSP Rio, LLC to TT TZ Liquor, LLC, effective April 14, 2026.


17. Acknowledgement of Terminations – The Committee acknowledged the termination of two Public Works employees effective March 21, 2026.


18. Acknowledgement of Resignation – The Committee acknowledged the resignation of a full-time Recreation Leader effective March 23, 2026.


19. Changes in Employment Status – The Committee approved employment status changes, including part-time and full-time adjustments for Public Works and Sewer personnel.


20. Salary Adjustments – The Committee approved salary amendments for Public Safety and Recreation employees.


21. Amendment to Resolution 126-26 – Tax Refund Correction – The Committee amended a prior resolution to correct a tax refund year from 2026 to 2025.


22. Escheat Premium – The Committee authorized transfer of a $2,000 tax sale premium to Township funds following foreclosure.


23. Social Affairs Permits – The Committee approved Social Affairs Permits for Panthers in Action and The Church of Our Lady of the Angels for events at The Shore Club.


24. Tabulation Committee Appointments – Officials were appointed to tabulate bids for fence improvements at the Goshen Complex and the Township Home Rehabilitation Project.


25. Support for SCR 106 (NJPACT REAL Rules) – The Committee formally supported Senate Concurrent Resolution 106, opposing NJDEP’s NJPACT REAL rules as inconsistent with legislative intent.


26. Support for Congressman Van Drew’s H.R. 7459 – The Committee endorsed the Coastal Trust Fund Act and supported proposed WRDA language to advance long-term beach replenishment solutions.


27. Authorization – Treatment Works Application – The Mayor was authorized to sign a Treatment Works Approval Permit Application for 37 Old North Wildwood Boulevard.


28. Refund of Permit Fees – Habitat for Humanity – The Committee authorized a refund of $2,389 in permit fees for Habitat for Humanity’s affordable housing project.


29. Change Order #4 – Goshen Complex Improvements – The Committee approved a decrease of $1,626.87 to the Goshen Complex contract, adjusting the total to $4,098,034.63.


30. Shared Services Agreement – Municipal Court Administrator – The Committee ratified a shared services agreement with Lower Township for provision of a Municipal Court Administrator.


31. Mobile Food Vendor License – 2026 – The Committee approved a 2026 Mobile Food Vendor license application.


32. Waiver of Recreational Facility Fee – The Committee waived usage fees at the MLK Center for Caring for Kids Cape May County’s Community Baby Shower event.


33. Amendment to Personnel Policy Manual – The Committee considered amendments to the Township’s Personnel Policy Manual.



April 20, 2026 - Township Committee Meeting Agenda


1. Girls Basketball 5/6 Team – South Shore Champions – The Mayor and Committee recognized the Girls 5/6 Basketball Team for winning the South Shore Championship.


2. Middle Township Boys High School Basketball Team Recognition – The Committee honored the 2026 Cape Atlantic League American Conference Champions and 2026 South Jersey Group 2 Champions.


3. Middle Township Girls High School Basketball Team Recognition – The Committee recognized the 2026 Atlantic League American Conference Champions and 2026 Cape Atlantic League Conference Tournament Champions.


4. MTHS Wrestler RJ Attenborough Recognition – The Committee honored RJ Attenborough for qualifying for the NJSIAA State Tournament.


5. Arrow of Light Award Recipients – The Mayor and Committee recognized recipients of the Arrow of Light Award from Cub Scout Pack 65.


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


7. Bill List A – General Bills – The Committee approved $628,791.85 in payments across Current, Capital, COAH, Recreation Trust, and other accounts.


8. Approval of Minutes – The Committee approved the April 13, 2026, Regular Meeting and Closed Session minutes.


9. Reports – Departmental reports were received (as submitted).


10. Ordinance 1738-26 – Speed Limit Amendment – Following public hearing and second reading, the Committee adopted an ordinance establishing a 25-mph speed limit on East Shellbay Avenue from the Garden State Parkway to its easterly terminus.


11. Appointments – New Hires – Two temporary Public Works Laborers were appointed at $15.92 per hour.


12. Change in Employment Status – The Committee approved a change in employment status for a Sewer Department employee from part-time to full-time at a salary of $37,500.


13. Acknowledgement of Resignations – The Committee acknowledged resignations from members of the Environmental Commission and Garden Club.


14. Acknowledgement of Retirement – The Committee acknowledged the retirement of a Public Works Laborer effective September 1, 2026.


15. Release of Trust Accounts – The Committee authorized the release and refund of remaining balances in various trust accounts upon request of the Zoning Officer.


16. Tabulation Committee Appointments – Officials were appointed to tabulate bids for multiple capital projects.


17. Failure to Surrender Certificate – Tax Sale – The Committee authorized the transfer of $2,916.29 in unclaimed tax lien redemption monies to the Township.


18. Shared Services Agreement – NJDEP PACT/REAL Rules Litigation – The Committee ratified a shared services agreement with Cape May County.


19. Award of Bid – HVAC Services – The Committee awarded a one-year contract to Kisby Lees Mechanical, LLC.


20. Temporary Budget Amendment – The Committee amended the Temporary Budget.


21. Green Creek Volunteer Fire Company – Roadway Solicitation – The Committee authorized roadway solicitation.


22. NJDEP & I-Bank Loan Application – Sewer & Roadway Improvements – The Committee authorized submission of loan applications.


23. Emergency Purchase – Paula Lane Pipe Repair – The Committee approved an emergency contract in the amount of $15,960.


24. Engineer’s Report – The Township Engineer provided updates on ongoing projects.


25. 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/

IMPORTANT UPDATE

The Quick Pay Portals for both Property Taxes and Sewer Utility Payments are once again available online!

Go to middletownship.com and click on the payment tab on the right side of the homepage.

Happy Birthday America! 


Middle Township proudly unveils its official America 250 logo, a unifying symbol that reflects our history, community pride, and the spirit of 250 years of freedom. 


This design will carry through all of our 2026 celebrations, bringing a consistent and meaningful identity to the events, traditions, and moments that will define this historic milestone.

Mark your calendars! Open Shred Day Event - Saturday, May 16th - 8am to 12pm (or until trucks are filled).

Each year, New Jersey American Water flushes the pipes in the water distribution system. This is an essential part of the system maintenance program, which helps us to continue to provide high-quality water service.


Flushing will begin in Middle Township during the week of April 27th and continue until May 17th.

Comings and Goings


Middle Township – Comings and Goings – April 2026


Comings – Welcome to the Middle Township Team


Sewer Department

Laborer – Alexander Bruno

Laborer – Justin Frame


Public Works

Laborer Ali’nzo Love

Laborer Benjamin Sinone



Goings – Thank You for Your Service to our Hometown


Public Works

Jeff Rhile (retirement - effective 9/1/2026)


Recreation

Lisa Cermanski


Volunteer Boards



Environmental Commission

Betsi Kohler

Lynn Pollard


Garden Club

Matthew Wetzel

Donald Thomas 

 

2026 Middle Budget Presentation

Middle Township Committee introduced the 2026 municipal budget at the Township’s Public Meeting held on April 13th. 


The proposal calls for a $29.8 million Current Fund budget and a $6.7 million Sewer Utility budget. The fiscally responsible plan is fully compliant with state tax levy and appropriations caps and includes a modest 2.3-cent increase in the local-purpose tax rate.


The proposed budget reflects careful planning amid several cost pressures. Key factors include contractual salary and wage increases of $363,000, health insurance premiums rising $350,000, higher capital and debt service costs of $257,000 (including an additional $150,000 allocated to the Capital Improvement Fund), a $90,000 increase in the curbside trash and recycling contract, and $40,000 in additional utility expenses.

 Revenue challenges include the loss of an $80,000 Woodbine Court interlocal agreement and a $250,000 reduction in anticipated land-sale proceeds.


To offset these pressures, Middle Township is plans to utilize $410,000 more in anticipated surplus than in 2025. The township’s surplus has grown to a record $6,867,883. Officials are also projecting higher local revenues from licenses, fees, permits, hotel/motel taxes, and construction fees. A new local cannabis tax is expected to generate $95,000 in its second year. Ratables have grown by $74 million, providing additional tax-base support. Salary savings from retirements and personnel adjustments in the Zoning and Tax Assessor offices further helped balance the plan.


“The 2026 budget demonstrates Middle Township’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality services while exercising prudent fiscal discipline,” said Mayor Chris Leusner. “I want to recognize the hard work and dedication of Administrator Kimberly Osmundsen, CFO Neil Young, and all our township department heads. Their collaborative efforts, detailed analysis, and creative solutions have produced a balanced budget that protects taxpayers and maintains essential services for our residents.”


For the average residential property assessed at $264,071, the local purpose tax increase amounts to approximately $60.74 per year, or $15.19 per quarter. The township remains well under both the tax levy cap and the appropriations levy cap.


The Current Fund salary and wage budget remains the largest single expense category, with public safety continuing to receive the largest share. The Sewer Utility operating budget of $6.7 million is funded primarily by user charges. Ongoing debt service and payments to the Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority account for a large share of the Sewer Utility’s budget. 


The 2026 budget reflects Middle Township’s year-round commitment to sound financial management. Through proactive planning, Mayor and Committee work to position the community for sustainable growth while addressing rising costs through efficiency, new revenue sources, strategic use of reserves, and the $74 million increase in ratables. This responsible approach ensures that Middle Township can continue to provide affordable, high-quality municipal services effectively and efficiently for all residents.


A public hearing and potential final adoption of the introduced budget is scheduled for Monday May 18th at 6:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input.

Capital Improvement Plan

Middle Township, NJ – April 16, 2026 – At its regular meeting on Monday, April 13, 2026, the Middle Township Committee introduced an Ordinance authorizing funding for a comprehensive package of 2026 general capital improvements across the township.


The measure passed first reading and is scheduled for second reading, public hearing, and final consideration at the Monday, May 18th Township Committee Meeting.


The bond ordinance appropriates a total of $2,261,000 for the projects. Of that amount, $107,670 will be funded through existing down payments from the township’s Capital Improvement Fund. The remaining $2,153,330 will be financed through the issuance of general obligation bonds or bond anticipation notes.


“These strategic capital investments will directly improve our roads, township facilities, public safety equipment, and technology infrastructure,” Mayor Chris Leusner said. “Prudent borrowing enhances the quality of life for all Middle Township residents while responsibly managing our long-term financial commitments. Smart planning ensures we move forward together to keep our community strong, safe, and well-maintained. We look forward to hearing from our residents at the May 18th public hearing on the ordinance.”


Proposed 2026 Capital Improvements include:


• Road Improvements – $800,000 for improvements to various township roads, may include excavation, milling, paving, reconstruction, full-depth pavement replacement, crack sealing, curbing, driveway aprons, utility castings, drainage, roadway painting, landscaping, and aesthetic enhancements.


• Buildings and Grounds – $580,000 for various upgrades to township facilities, including improvements at the Goshen Recreation Complex, Town Hall parking lot resurfacing, security system enhancements, and upgrades to the Martin Luther King Center Playground.


• Vehicles and Equipment – $544,000 for acquisition and installation of essential township vehicles and equipment, including a dump truck with plow and spreader, utility vehicles and related equipment, landscaping equipment, and HVAC system replacement.


• Public Safety – $202,000 for equipment for the Middle Township Police Department, including radios, computer systems, and speed radar signs.


• Information Technology and Office Equipment – $135,000 for Township-wide IT upgrades, including new office equipment, filing systems, and computer hardware.


The ordinance also provides for a possible reduction of the total bond amount if federal, state, county, or private grants are received.

Employee of the Month

Middle Township Recognizes Stanley Curry

as March 2026 Employee of the Month


Mayor Leusner and Township Committee were proud to recognize Recreation Aide Stanley Curry as the Township’s March 2026 Employee of the Month in appreciation of his dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving the community.


Stanley was honored for his service to our Seniors in his role as an Aide at the Devico Senior Center and for his diligence in working to improve the safety and appearance of the Township's Parks and Recreation facilities.

Middle Township Proudly Honors Its April Employees of the Month

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.

Mayor Leusner Speak to Middle School Students - How Government Works

Mayor Leusner had a great morning with our Middle Township Middle School Panthers!


Today, he visited the Middle School to talk with 8th grade students about how our local government works, what it means to serve as Mayor, and the many ways young people can make a difference right here in Middle Township.


Thank you to the students and staff for the warm welcome and thoughtful questions. 

Our future is bright with leaders like these coming up through our schools!

Mayor Leusner joined McDonald’s management, local leaders and Grimace to celebrate the reopening of the Cape May Court House McDonald’s. 


The long-time location was completely remodeled and opens with a modern, new look and a fresh parking area.  


Township Committee appreciates McDonald’s local investment in their future and their longstanding commitment to supporting charitable endeavors in our community.

Middle Township is proud to welcome Cold Bowl to our community!


On Friday, Mayor Chris Leusner joined the owners and staff for a ribbon cutting to celebrate their grand opening in Rio Grande. Cold Bowl brings fresh energy, new jobs, and another great place for families and visitors to enjoy right here in Middle Township.


Please join us in congratulating Cold Bowl on their grand opening — we wish them many years of success, loyal customers, and growth in our community. 


Be sure to stop in, check them out, and support one of Middle Township’s newest small businesses!

Township Committee proudly honored the historic season of the MTHS Boys Basketball Team

2026 Cape Atlantic League American Conference Champions

2026 NJSIAA Group 2 South Jersey Champions


Head Coach: LaMarr Greer

Assistant Coaches: Marcus Harmon, Ray Brown, Charlie McNeal,

Ryan Babnew, Rajhon Odom, Frank Brown

Players

Chase Moore

Jaleo Wakefield

Adam Bouabbache

Mason Murawski

Derion Hawkins

Angelo Panzini

Joey Povio

Kyle Mick

Luca DelConte

Kanye Perkins

Michael Farrow

Amine Cherifi

32 Alex Daniel

34 Amir Sample

Tommy Yarson

Managers:

Davon Anderson

Xavier Bailey, Elijah Bethune

Ny'Zhir Taylor

Township Committee was proud to honor Middle Township High School wrestler RJ Attenborough - NJSIAA State Qualifier. 


RJ Captured third place in the 165-pound weight class and was joined by MTHS Wrestling Coach Matt Wolf.

Mayor and Committee were proud to recognize five members of Pack 65 Cub Scouts - Arrow of Light Recipients.


Derek Heck

Evangeline DeNapoli

Jayce Hunt

Kayden Conroy

Charles Mathis

Township Committee was honored to recognize the Middle Township Girls 5/6 Grade Basketball Team, Winners of the South Shore League Championship.


Head Coach – Tony Costello

Assistant Coach – Sarah Sharpe

Ryan Bucko

Geeanna Casanova

Charlotte Dreighton

Cecelia Dicola

Averielle Jordan

Dylan Kosmin

Amina Lopez

Jaaziah Mack

Elizabeth Maher

Natori McGill

Gabriella Sharpe

Sophia Sharpe

Marissa Wetherill

Maryam Atalla

Middle Township Committee was honored and proud to recognize the amazing season of the MTHS Girls Basketball team.


2026 Cape Atlantic League American Conference Champions

2026 Cape Atlantic League Conference Tournament Champions

Head Coach John Leahy

Assistant Coaches: Brandee Day and Brynn Caraballo

Players

Abbey Cappelletti

Reagen Powell

Alexia Davis

Mya Robinson

Sarah Farrow

Essence Still

Ella Leahy

Allison Nagle

Ainsley Frederick

Isabel Miller

Hannah O'Neal

 Casey Day

Iyonna Wallace

Managers:

Zoe Super

Areth Palacios Bustos

MIDDLE UPDATES RESIDENTS ON GOSHEN SPORTS COMPLEX PROJECT

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP, NJ – The Township of Middle today released an update on the ongoing construction of the Clarence and Georgiana Davies Sports Complex in Goshen, a major community investment that will deliver major upgrades to the site’s athletic fields and facilities.


Funded through a partnership between the Cape May County Open Space Board and Middle Township, the Goshen Sports Complex project is moving forward on schedule under the leadership of Township Committee and contractor H4 Enterprises, LLC. As of the April 20 project update, site preparation and early infrastructure work are underway, with full-scale construction activities ramping up this spring and continuing through the fall.


The project encompasses comprehensive improvements across the multi-field complex, including new turf installations, irrigation systems, fencing, press boxes, concession stands, parking enhancements, and supporting site work. Two distinct turf types are planned to optimize playability and durability for different seasons and sports.


Currently under construction and pending work includes:


1. Field grading and preparation

2. Irrigation system installation, startup and alignment

3. Landscaping

4. Fence post installation and full perimeter fencing

5. Backstop construction

6. Press box rebuilds for Little League and Football

7. Concession stand upgrades

8. ADA parking improvements

9. Bleacher installation


Concrete work and goal post placement are also progressing on track for completion this summer.

“Middle Township looks forward to delivering this first-class sports complex to our residents on-time and on-budget,” Mayor Chris Leusner said. “These upgrades will provide safe, modern facilities that support year-round athletic programs, reduce maintenance demands, and serve generations of youth sports in our hometown. 


We thank the Cape May County Open Space Board for their critical partnership and H4 Enterprises for their professional execution of this important project.”


The Clarence and Georgiana Davies Complex has long served as a hub for youth sports in Middle Township. Once completed, the enhanced fields and amenities will accommodate baseball, football, soccer, lacrosse, and other recreational activities while improving spectator experiences through better concessions, seating, and parking.


Construction is expected to reach substantial completion by October 2026, with some fields becoming available for play in the late fall of 2026 and fully ready for the spring 2027 sports season allowing grow-in time for new turf and final punch-list items. Township officials emphasized that weather conditions will be monitored closely, particularly during the critical turf installation windows, to maintain steady progress on a realistic timeline.


Residents are encouraged to follow project updates on the Township of Middle website and social media channels. 


The Township of Middle remains committed to delivering high-quality recreational opportunities that enhance quality of life for all residents at an affordable cost to Township taxpayers.

Middle Supports Van Drew Coastal Trust Fund

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP, N.J. – At Middle Township’s April 13th Public Meeting, Township Committee unanimously approved a resolution strongly supporting Congressman Jeff Van Drew’s H.R. 7459, the Coastal Trust Fund Act, and urging its swift passage in the United States Congress. The township also backed proposed language for inclusion in the 2026 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) to advance critical beach nourishment work in Cape May County.


Following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers authorized multiple shore-protection projects along New Jersey’s coast. However, current funding through annual requests and earmarks has created chronic uncertainty, leaving shoreline communities vulnerable, threatening lives and property, and placing unnecessary strain on municipal budgets when beach fills are delayed. Cape May County’s tourism economy, the region’s primary economic driver, depends on stable, well-maintained Atlantic and Delaware Bay beaches.


“By supporting Congressman Van Drew’s Coastal Trust Fund Act, Middle Township is standing up for our coastline and the economic vitality of Cape May County,” said Mayor Chris Leusner. “Reliable, consistent federal funding for beach replenishment is essential to protect lives, property, and our tourism-driven economy. The creation of the Coastal Trust Fund will ensure our communities can plan effectively for the future without the constant uncertainty and escalating costs that come from year-to-year funding battles.”

Bring your Kid to Work Day

We let the kids run the Township for a day. Okay, not really — but they did get a tour, some snacks, and a peek at what their grownups do all day. Thanks to everyone who made Bring Your Child to Work Day so much fun! See More Photos

Vendor opportunities available at our up coming events. 


Reserve your spot at:

https://middletownship.recdesk.com/Community/program 

OR call 609-465-8743 for more details

Middle Moments: April 2026

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