Working Together to Ensure Safety in Storm Events

Over the first weeks of 2026, Middle Township has already faced two significant winter storms. Snowfall totals, high winds, power outages, and hazardous road conditions tested our preparedness and our resolve. Each time, our community responded with resilience. Behind the scenes, a coordinated system was working around the clock to keep residents safe.

As Mayor of Middle Township and Director of the Cape May County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), I have the unique responsibility of seeing both the municipal and countywide perspectives during major storm events. I’d like to share with you how the County Office of Emergency Management plays a critical role in protecting public safety and how that work supports every municipality, including our own.

The Cape May County Office of Emergency Management serves as the central coordination point during declared emergencies and major storm events. While municipalities like Middle Township are responsible for frontline operations (plowing local roads, clearing intersections, responding to local calls for service) the County OEM provides the broader framework that ensures all 16 municipalities are working from the same plan and sharing the same information.

When a storm approaches, County OEM begins monitoring National Weather Service forecasts days in advance. We participate in regional briefings with the State Office of Emergency Management, utility providers, public health officials, and neighboring counties. This allows us to anticipate impacts and pre-position resources before the first snowflake falls.

Once the storm begins, the County Emergency Operations Center may be activated. From that centralized location, we coordinate:

• Communication between municipalities

• Resource requests and mutual aid

• Road condition monitoring across county highways

• Shelter readiness and warming center coordination

• Coordination with Atlantic City Electric and other utilities

• Public health advisories, if needed

• Real-time public information updates

No municipality operates in isolation during a major weather event. If one town’s plows break down, another may assist. If a municipality experiences concentrated power outages, County OEM works directly with the utility provider to prioritize critical infrastructure.

In Middle Township, our Public Works, Police, Fire, and contracted EMS providers are on the front lines. But behind them stands the countywide support system which ensures access to equipment, state resources, emergency declarations when necessary, and accurate information flow.

The County OEM also ensures that elected officials and municipal administrators receive consistent situation reports. This prevents misinformation, aligns decision-making, and allows every town to communicate clearly with its residents.

In today’s environment, accurate and timely information is as important as plowed roads. During storm events, rumors and outdated information can spread quickly on social media.

County OEM works closely with municipal leaders to share verified updates regarding:

• Road closures

• Power restoration estimates

• Shelter availability

• School or government office closures

• Safety advisories

By coordinating messaging, we ensure that whether a resident lives in Middle Township, Ocean City, Wildwood, or Upper Township, they receive consistent, fact-based information.

Emergency management does not begin when snow starts falling. It is a year-round responsibility. Training exercises, hazard mitigation planning, equipment inventory reviews, and interagency coordination meetings all occur long before winter arrives.

The strength of our response during the two storms we’ve already faced in 2026 is a direct result of that preparation.

Storm response is never about one office or one individual. It is about teamwork — municipal employees, county professionals, state offices, first responders, utility workers, and informed residents working together.

I want to thank our Middle Township Public Works crews who worked extended shifts in freezing conditions. I want to thank our Police Department, Fire Companies, EMS personnel, and county staff who staffed the Emergency Operations Center. And I want to thank our residents for their patience and cooperation.

Cape May County has a strong emergency management system because we believe in preparation, coordination, and communication.

As we continue through the winter season, please stay informed through official Township and County channels, sign up for emergency alerts, and check on neighbors who may need assistance.

Working together, at all levels of government, we will continue to keep Middle Township and all of Cape May County safe.

Chris Leusner

Mayor, Middle Township

February 2, 2026 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

Employee of the Month Presentation – The Mayor and Township Committee recognized Chris Muldoon as Employee of the Month for January.

Approval of Bill List A (General Bills) – The Committee approved payment of municipal bills totaling $5,853,778.63 across various funds, including Current Fund, Sewer Utility, Capital, and Trust accounts.

 Approval of Minutes – The Committee approved the minutes from the January 21, 2026 Regular Meeting and Work Session.

Ordinance 1733-26 – Compensation of Officers and Employees – Following second reading and public hearing, the Committee adopted an ordinance establishing positions, salary ranges, longevity increases for certain pre-1995 employees, and retroactive compensation to January 1, 2026.

Salary Adjustments – The Committee amended salaries for three Municipal Court employees effective February 2, 2026.

Adoption of State Model Citizen Participation Plan – The Township adopted the NJ DCA Small Cities CDBG Citizen Participation Plan in connection with grant applications for ADA improvements at the MLK Center and housing rehabilitation funds.

Adoption of Housing Rehabilitation Policies & Procedures Manual – The Committee formally adopted the required Grant Management Plan for the FY2026 Housing Rehabilitation Program.

Grant Management Plans (Housing & Public Facilities) – The Township adopted required Policies and Procedures and Grant Management Plans for FY2026 Housing Rehabilitation funding and ADA improvements at the Martin Luther King Center.

Designation of Fair Housing Officer – The Township Treasurer was appointed as the Small Cities Program Fair Housing Officer to ensure compliance with federal and state fair housing laws tied to grant funding.

Authorization of Grant Applications (A–E) – The Committee authorized submission of multiple FY2026 grant applications, including NJDOT Local Aid (Beach Avenue paving), $200,000 housing rehabilitation funds, up to $400,000 for ADA playground improvements at the MLK Center, and up to $100,000 for Local Recreation Improvements.

Safe & Secure Communities Grant Acceptance – The Township accepted a $45,150 state grant (with required match) under the Attorney General’s Safe & Secure Communities Program for law enforcement purposes.

Renewal of 2026 Towing Licenses – The Committee renewed towing licenses for approved operators and vehicles for calendar year 2026.

Acceptance of Performance Bond – Coral Point Development – The Township accepted a $4,390,681.20 performance bond from Jasick Group LP for site improvements at Coral Point Development.

Tabulation Committee Appointments (A–C) – Township officials were appointed to tabulate bids for Electric Service & Repair, HVAC Preventative Maintenance, and Pacific Avenue Roadway & Sidewalk Improvements projects.

Adoption of 2026 Cape May County Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – The Township formally adopted the updated County Hazard Mitigation Plan and committed to implementing and coordinating mitigation strategies.

Authorization to Execute Discharge of Mortgage – The Mayor was authorized to execute a discharge of a $16,600 mortgage loan for a property on West Hand Avenue.

Amendment to Solid Waste & Recycling Contract – The Township amended its contract with Pinelands Construction, LLC to add 128 new homes to the collection route at an additional annual cost of $30,720.

Declaration of Developer Default – Conifer Greenbrier LLC – The Township declared the developer in default for incomplete improvements at Block 1432, Lot 6, and authorized use of remaining escrow funds to complete outstanding work.

February 18, 2026 – Township Committee Work Session

Committee heard presentations and held discussions on:

Reeds Beach Road – Colliers Engineers Proposed Ordinance Change

Middle Township Fire Bureau – Proposed reorganization and consolidation

February 18, 2026 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

Approval of Bill List A (General Bills) – The Committee approved payment of municipal bills totaling $1,014,639.65 across various funds, including Current Fund, Capital, Grants, Escrow, COAH, and Recreation Trust accounts.

Approval of Bill List B (General Bills) – The Committee approved an additional $5,027.25 in bill payments from the Current Fund.

Approval of Minutes – The Committee approved the minutes from the February 2, 2026 Regular Meeting and the January 21, 2026 Closed Session.

Ordinance 1734-26 – Repeal of Mobile Home Rent Control – Following second reading and public hearing, the Committee adopted an ordinance repealing the Township’s Rent Control provisions for mobile and manufactured homes due to state law preemption, effective March 1, 2026.

Ordinance 1735-26 – Development Fees and Affordable Housing Amendments – The Committee passed Ordinance 1735-26 on first reading to repeal and replace Development Fee regulations and amend Affordable Housing provisions to conform with updated Fair Housing Act requirements, scheduling a second reading and public hearing.

Department and Title Changes – The Committee approved department transfers and title changes for three employees, including updates in Recreation, Zoning, and Finance.

New Hires – The Committee appointed three new full-time permanent employees in Construction, Administration, and Finance.

Change Order – Goshen Complex Improvements – The Committee approved Change Order #2 for the Clarence and Georgiana Davies (Goshen) Complex project, increasing the contract by $58,300 for a revised total of $4,007,087.50.

Affordable Housing Administrative Agent Appointment – The Committee designated Triad Associates as the Township’s Affordable Housing Administrative Agent.

Fair and Open Contract Awards (A–D) – The Committee awarded professional service contracts under the Fair and Open Process to Vincent C. Orlando as Planning and Zoning Board Engineer and to Robert T. Belasco, Esq., as Planning and Zoning Board Solicitor, each not to exceed $20,000 for 2026.

Mobile Food Vendor Licenses – 2026 – The Committee approved 2026 mobile food vendor licenses for qualified applicants.

Renewal of Mobile Home Park License – The Committee renewed the 2026 license for Rio Grande Mobile Home Park.

Treatment Works Application – 85 North Beach Avenue – The Mayor was authorized to sign the Treatment Works Approval and related permit documents for Block 29, Lot 30.

Extension – Temporary Above-Ground Gasoline Storage Tank – The Committee extended authorization for a temporary above-ground gasoline storage tank at Block 120, Lot 44.01 through October 31, 2026.

Emergency Purchases (A–B) – The Committee authorized two emergency contracts without bidding: $44,000 to Channel Marine Construction for outfall pipe repairs and $39,900 to ERCO Interiors for structural ceiling repairs at the Senior Center.

Discharge of Mortgage – The Mayor was authorized to execute a discharge of a $2,517.50 mortgage loan for property located at 11 Lehigh Avenue, Del Haven.

Ratification – Ambulance Corps Contract – The Committee ratified a one-year contract with Middle Township Ambulance Corps for emergency medical services for 2026.

Indian Trail Redevelopment – Establishment of Purchase Price – The Committee established a $7,500 purchase price for Block 195, Lot 4 within the Indian Trail Redevelopment Area and authorized execution of the Purchase and Sale Agreement.

Reduction of Performance Bonds (A–B) – The Committee approved reductions in performance guarantees for two projects: Samuel & Gene DePasquale and Jasick Group LLC, based on completed improvements.

Adoption of Affordable Housing Trust Fund Spending Plan – The Committee adopted and endorsed an updated Spending Plan for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund in compliance with new DCA regulations.

Refund of Permit and Fair Share Housing Fees – The Committee authorized the refund of $7,319.25 to Joe Fulford following cancellation of a construction project.

Closed Session – Contract Negotiation (Potential Development) – The Committee entered into closed session to discuss contract negotiations related to a potential development matter, with formal action to be taken if necessary upon return to open session.

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/

The girls’ basketball team at Middle Township High School has etched its name into local history, capturing the 2026 Cape-Atlantic League championship and bringing immense pride to the entire Middle Township community.

In a season defined by grit, teamwork, and determination, the Panthers rose to the top of one of South Jersey’s most competitive conferences. Game after game, they demonstrated discipline on defense, unselfish play on offense, and a resilience that reflects the very spirit of Middle Township itself.

This championship is about more than wins and losses. It represents countless early-morning practices, long bus rides, and the unwavering support of coaches, families, classmates, and alumni. It showcases the strength of our school community and the values instilled in our student-athletes — hard work, perseverance, and pride in wearing the Panther uniform.

For Middle Township, this victory is personal. Our town rallies around its schools, and when our students succeed, the entire community shares in that success. From packed stands in the gymnasium to congratulatory messages across social media, the celebration of this championship reflects a deep-rooted sense of hometown pride.

The 2026 Cape Atlantic League title will be remembered as a milestone season — one that inspired younger athletes, strengthened school spirit, and reminded us all what can be accomplished when talent meets teamwork.

Congratulations to the players, coaches, and everyone who helped make this championship season possible. Middle Township stands proud. 

Middle Township – Comings and Goings – February 2026

Comings – Welcome to the Middle Township Team

Construction – Cynthia Dahl/Construction Clerk

Administration – Francesca Trimble/Clerk

Finance – Mariah Kennedy/Account Clerk

Goings – Thank You for Your Service to our Hometown

Municipal Court – Stacy-Ann McPherson/ Court Administrator

Zoning – Christina Povio/Clerk

Municipal Court – Ryan Hanahan/Clerk

The Middle Township Senior Center is currently closed due to safety concerns related to building construction. The Township is working diligently to complete necessary repairs and ensure the safety of the facility for all residents, staff, and visitors. At this time, the center is expected to remain closed for several weeks.

In the interim, senior residents are encouraged to visit other Cape May County Senior Centers for programs, activities, meals, and social support. The County’s Division of Aging & Disability Services operates several centers offering a range of services, including congregate meals, socialization, health activities, and transportation options.

Alternate Senior Center Locations in Cape May County

Lower Cape Senior Center

2612 Bayshore Road, Villas, NJ 08251

Phone: (609) 886-5161

Activities include card games, craft classes, lunch programs, exercise, pool, and more.

Cape May Senior Citizens Center (Broad county center)

4005 US-9, Rio Grande, NJ 08242

Phone: (609) 886-6529

County-operated senior services and information hub.

North Wildwood Senior Center

900 Central Avenue (at 10th & Central)

North Wildwood, NJ 08260

Phone: (609) 522-7611

Provides congregate meals, social programs, and wellness activities.

Upper Township Senior Center

1369 Old Stagecoach Road, Palermo, NJ 08230

Phone: (609) 390-9409

Offers recreation, health activities, and community lunches.

Mayor Chris Leusner visited Mrs. Maloney’s third grade class at Middle Township Elementary School #2 to celebrate World Read Aloud Day

Mayor Leusner read the book “It’s OK to Be Different,” generously provided by The Lunch With Lynch Foundation, a supporter of meaningful and positive learning opportunities for local students.

Thank you to Mrs. Maloney’s class for being such a great audience and to John Lynch and the Lunch With Lynch Foundation for their continued support of our schools and students.

MTPD Cops & Coffee

March 11, 2026

Burke Motor Group, 519 Stone Harbor Blvd., Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

0900-1100 am

The Middle Township Police Department will be hosting their monthly Cops & Coffee program at the, Burke Motor Group on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 09:00-11:00 am. Please come by and have a cup of coffee with your local police officers and discuss any issues/concerns you may have, or just have some friendly conversations. We look forward to seeing you there!

Please RSVP by Monday, March 10, 2026 to francey.burke@burkemotorgroup.com

Support Middle Township Recreation Department simply by dining out.

Join us Monday, April 6 at MudHen Brewing Company or Dogtooth Bar & Grill. Present this flyer and 30% of your dine-in, takeout, or delivery order will be donated to support recreation programs in our community.

Enjoy a great meal while helping fund local programs for Middle Township residents.

Middle Township Extends EMS Support Services Partnership with Middle Township Ambulance Corps


(Middle Township, NJ) – At its February 18, 2026 meeting, the Middle Township Committee approved a new partnership agreement with the Middle Township Ambulance Corps to provide EMS support services, primarily focused on special event coverage and supplemental emergency response assistance.

Middle Township’s primary Emergency Medical Services provider remains AtlanticCare, which operates under contract with the Township to deliver full-time EMS coverage to residents. The newly approved agreement clarifies and strengthens the role of the Middle Township Ambulance Corps as a valued support partner within the Township’s overall emergency response system.

Under the agreement, the Ambulance Corps will focus primarily on providing standby coverage at Township-sponsored events, community gatherings, and other high-attendance activities where on-site EMS presence enhances public safety. The Corps may also provide supplemental assistance during periods of high call volume or extraordinary circumstances when additional EMS resources are needed.

The Middle Township Ambulance Corps has a proud history of service to the community spanning decades. Long before the implementation of the current AtlanticCare contract model, the Corps served as the Township’s primary EMS provider, built on a foundation of volunteerism, dedication, and local commitment. Generations of residents have stepped forward to serve their neighbors through the Corps, creating a legacy that remains deeply respected within the community.

Mayor Chris Leusner emphasized that the agreement ensures a layered and collaborative public safety approach.

“AtlanticCare provides our primary EMS coverage, but the Middle Township Ambulance Corps remains an important part of our public safety family,” said Leusner. “Their role in covering special events and supporting our emergency response system adds an extra layer of protection for our residents and visitors. This partnership honors their history while aligning with our modern EMS delivery model.”

By formalizing this support role, Middle Township continues to strengthen its comprehensive emergency response network — combining professional contracted services with trusted local volunteers to ensure safety, preparedness, and responsiveness throughout the year.

Residents are encouraged to follow official Township channels for information regarding public safety services and community events.

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