Election 2025 - Our Votes Determine Our Future

In every election, we’re given a simple, solemn chance to steer the future of Middle Township. It doesn’t come with fireworks or fanfare. It doesn’t arrive with a parade down Mechanic Street or a sunset over the marsh. It comes as a moment of personal choice—your decision to participate, to be counted, and to help set our community’s course.

It’s time to vote.

I’ve been around Middle Township politics and government for a long time. One thing I’ve learned along the way is that Middle Township doesn’t run on campaign slogans. It runs on people. It runs on parents who coach youth sports and drive carpools; on seniors who keep an eye on their neighborhoods and share a memory or three of how things used to be; on business owners who unlock their doors and welcome commerce each morning; on municipal crews who plow the roads before most of our alarms go off. It runs on volunteers—from firefighters to coaches, to church leaders—who show up at all hours to help one and others. And, it runs on voters.

It's been said that voting is the shortest tool with the longest reach. In a few minutes, you make choices that ripple out over years—choices about schools and safety, roads and recreation, local development and long-term resilience. Voting isn’t just the end of a campaign; it’s the beginning of accountability. It’s how you declare what you expect of those who serve you at every level of government.

As we enter into the heart of another election season, I want to share a few important points and reminders that matter to me as your neighbor and as your mayor.

First, your vote truly matters here. In many elections, races can be decided by a handful of ballots. I’ve seen elections come down to a few hundred votes in my time. Whether your preferred candidate wins or loses, the message is the same either way: a single household, a single conversation, a single ballot can tip the balance for the whole township.

Second, participation is a community standard. We teach our kids to pick up after themselves in the park and to look out for classmates on the playground. We call Public Works when we see a pothole and EMS when someone needs help. Voting belongs in that same family of habits. It’s how we look out for one another, by choosing leaders, policies, and budgets that reflect our shared priorities.

Third, get the facts from the election experts. You’ll hear a lot of noise this election season—from campaigns, social media, your barber or your buddies. Some of it will be true, some of it spirited opinion, and some of it simply wrong. When you need the details that matter—how to check your registration, where to vote, how to obtain a ballot, what the important dates are—go straight to the source:

• New Jersey Division of Elections for statewide rules and dates.

• Cape May County Clerk for county-level election resources and official notices.

• Middle Township Municipal Clerk for local questions, forms, and guidance.

These offices provide the official, current information. If anything changes—hours, locations, forms—those changes will appear there first. Please rely on them.

Fourth, we’re neighbors before we’re partisans. I’m proud of the civility I see on our streets. We can disagree at a meeting, then shake hands at the Acme. We can write a letter to the editor and still share a table at the 4-H Fair. That’s not because we avoid hard topics; it’s because our shared identity is bigger than any argument. Remember that spirit as the campaign season heats up. Keep yard-sign debates friendly and online comments thoughtful. Show our kids how to disagree without being disagreeable.

Fifth, bring someone with you—figuratively or literally. If a neighbor needs a ride or help finding the official information, lend a hand. If a first-time voter seems unsure, point them to the right offices. If an older resident has questions, help them reach the County Clerk or our Municipal Clerk for authoritative answers. Democracy is contagious when we make it welcoming.

Now, a word about expectations. Government works best when you tell us what you need. Whether it’s drainage on your street, safer crosswalks near your child’s school, or the pace of development in your neighborhood, your ballot and your voice—letters, calls, meeting comments—work together. Vote to set the destination; then stay involved to help steer the route.

Finally, I want to thank the people you rarely see but always rely on: the clerks who prepare election materials, the county teams who coordinate logistics, and the local poll workers who spend long days ensuring everything is run by the book. They deserve our patience, our courtesy, and our gratitude. If you’ve ever thought about serving as a poll worker in the future, consider it—ask the County Clerk how to get involved. It’s one of the most concrete ways to support fair, orderly elections.

Middle Township is at its best when we show up for one another. We do it after storms, at fundraisers, on the sidelines, through our churches and our charities. Let’s continue to honor that commitment by making a plan to participate in our democratic process whenever we have the opportunity. Your community needs your judgment, your common sense, and your hope. However you engage, do it with pride in this place we call home.

For voting and election information visit: https://www.capemaycountyvotes.com/

Chris Leusner

Mayor, Middle Township

September 3, 2025 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

1. Approval of Resolution appointing MTPD Lt. David Hagan as Safety Officer

2. Approval of Resolution authorizing Terminal Leave payment for MTPD Police Captain Ken Martin

3. Approval of Resolution authorizing annual Free Yard Sale Dates – Sept. 19/20/21

4. Approval of Resolution authorizing the settlement agreement between Brown-Paris and the Township of Middle

5. Resolution confirming land sale to contiguous property owner of Block 961/Lot 8

6. Approval of Resolution authorizing a catering permit for the 2025 Harvest Fest to Zest Cape May, Inc.

7. Resolution approving a grant application for the Fiscal Year2026 Cape May County Division of Cultural Heritage Local Arts Program – Savor the Arts Festival

8. Approval of Resolution ratifying shared services agreement between Middle Township and the Middle Township Board of Education for School Resource Officers

9. Resolution designating a Condemnation Redevelopment Area within the Township of Middle

September 24, 2025 – Township Committee Work Session

Presentation and Discussion – Atlantic City Electric Reliability Upgrade Project

September 24, 2025 – Regular Meeting of Township Committee

1. Presentation by Mayor and Committee – Recognition of Retirement – MTPD Captain Ken Martin

2. Final approval of an ordinance to designate to intersections as 4-way stops – Seebreeze Lane and Old Avalon Blvd. and Sea Gull Lane and Old Avalon Blvd.

3. Final approval of an ordinance to update usage fees for parks and recreation facilities

4. Approval of Resolution for new hires – Sewer/Recreation/Public Works

5. Approval of Resolution authorizing 2025-2026 Hotel/Motels License - Economy Motel

6. Resolution approving catering permit for 2025 Harvest Festival – Cape Hospitality Group

7. Approval of Resolution supporting the extension of the grant award – NJDOT for the Linden Lane Phase III Project

8. Resolution to create a tabulation Committeee to review proposals submitted for improvements to the Clarence and Georgiana Sports Complex (Goshen Complex)

9. Approval of a Resolution recognizing October 6, 2025 as Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day in Cape May County

10. Approval of a Resolution establishing the sale prices for purchase and sales agreements with landowners for the acquisition of certain real property within the Indian Trail Redevelopment Area for the purposes of redevelopment

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/

Welcome

Sydnee Speigel – Zoning Office – Clerk

John Jefferson – Recreation Aide

Michael Schultz – Recreation Supervisor

Jamaine Haines - Public Works Laborer

Justin Moore – Public Works Laborer

Alexander Bruno – Sewer Laborer

Goings

Jennifer Graham – Middle Township Police Department

Mayor Leusner and Township Committee proudly congratulates Jennifer Graham on her well-earned retirement after an incredible 33 years of dedicated service. Jennifer’s career has been a cornerstone of our department’s history, marked by professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

She began her journey as a Public Safety Telecommunicator, quickly rising to the role of Senior Operator. In one of the most demanding and high-pressure positions, Jennifer consistently demonstrated grace under fire, ensuring calm and clarity in moments that mattered most. Her expertise extended beyond the console—Jennifer was also a certified 911 instructor, shaping the next generation of emergency communicators with skill and compassion.

Later in her career, Jennifer transitioned to the role of Evidence Clerk, where her meticulous attention to detail and integrity continued to serve our department with distinction.

Jennifer’s legacy is one of excellence, mentorship, and quiet strength. Her retirement marks the close of an extraordinary chapter, and while we will miss her presence, we celebrate the lasting impact she’s made on Middle Township law enforcement.

Thank you, Jennifer, for your service, your leadership, and your heart. Wishing you joy, relaxation, and new adventures in retirement!

Captain Kenneth Martin – Middle Township Police Department

Mayor Leusner and Township Committee would like to congratulate Captain Kenneth Martin on his retirement! Captain Kenneth Martin’s retirement marks the end of an impressive chapter in Middle Township’s law enforcement history. Captain Martin played a key role in the department’s leadership and operations, contributing to initiatives like proactive enforcement, officer training, and community engagement. His dedication helped shape a safer, more connected community, and his legacy will surely be felt for years to come. Wishing Captain Martin, a fulfilling and joyful retirement—he’s earned every moment of it.

Kenneth Martin was hired by the Wildwood Police Department as Class 2 law enforcement officer in 1999. After working two summers for the Wildwood Police Department Kenneth Martin was hired by the Middle Township Police Department in August of 2000 and Graduated from the Cape May County Police Academy in January of 2001.

Kenneth Martin served as a Patrolman with the Middle Township Police Department’s Patrol Division until 2003 when he was assigned to the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force. In 2004 Kenneth Martin returned to the Middle Township Police Department where he was assigned to the department’s Street Crimes Unit and in 2007 he was assigned to the police department’s Major Crimes Unit.

In November of 2016 Kenneth Martin was promoted to the rank of Sergeant as the supervisor of the Street Crimes Unit. During this time, Lieutenant Martin attended and graduated from The New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Academy. Kenneth Martin remained the supervisor of the Street Crimes Unit until November of 2022 when he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and assigned as the administrative Lieutenant. Lieutenants Martin’s current responsibilities include supervising Animal Control and Code Enforcement. In 2023 Kenneth Martin was promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned as the administrative Captain until he retired on August 31, 2025.

Through his career, Kenneth Martin was a member of the Department’s Honor Guard, Dive Team and a board member on the department’s Police Officer’s Association and has received numerous awards for his work in narcotics. Kenneth Martin has worked numerous large-scale investigations with the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Alcohol Tabaco and Firearms (ATF) and the Secret Service. Kenneth Martin was also assigned to the FBI’s HealthCare Fraud Task Force for the last three (3) years.

Rio Grande Post Office Dedicated as the Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building

Rio Grande, NJ- September 27, 2025 The Rio Grande community gathered on Saturday for the official dedication of the Rio Grande Post Office as the “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building.” Authorized by Public Law No: 118-243, the renaming honors First Lieutenant Carlton H. Hand, a lifelong Rio Grande resident and decorated World War II veteran.

The ceremony began with an invocation of tradition and respect, including the Presentation of Colors by the Navy JROTC of Middle Township High School, the National Anthem by Acting Postmaster Chip Rishell, the Pledge of Allegiance by Petty Officer First Class Guillory Bryant, U.S. Navy (Retired), and a prayer led by Pastor Prescott Butler, retired Postmaster of Vauxhall.

Congressman Jefferson Van Drew, who sponsored the legislation, welcomed attendees, calling Hand “a true American hero, a son of Cape May County, whose courage and sacrifice allowed us to be free and represent this country so well.” Van Drew highlighted Hand’s extraordinary valor in World War II, where he risked his life under enemy fire and earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

Assemblyman Antwan L. McClellan of New Jersey’s 1st District spoke of the importance of honoring heroes from South Jersey, presenting a proclamation of recognition on behalf of state leaders. “Having this building named in his honor means that when people walk through these doors, they will always remember the name Carlton Hand,” McClellan said.

Middle Township Mayor Christopher Leusner reflected on Hand’s enduring legacy. “His story reminds us of extraordinary things that ordinary people from small towns can accomplish when called to serve,” Leusner said. “By dedicating this post office in his name, we ensure that every day people are reminded of a man who exemplified service, courage, and sacrifice”.

James Hand, son of Carlton H. Hand, offered personal reflections, noting his father’s battlefield heroics, wartime injuries, and resilience. “Carl Hand was a shining example of the Greatest Generation,” he said, recalling stories of sacrifice and his father’s return to Cape May County as a union carpenter and leader. He added, “Though long gone from this earth, he was someone you can be very proud of”.

Closing remarks were delivered by Marcelina Del Pizzo-Wisniewski, District Manager of the U.S. Postal Service, New Jersey District. “When we dedicate a post office, we weave the story of remarkable people into the greater American tapestry,” she said. “Today, we are especially proud to be known as the Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building forevermore”.

The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of a plaque bearing First Lieutenant Hand’s name. Family members, postal officials, and community leaders participated in the ribbon-cutting, marking the official dedication of the building in his honor.

Born in Rio Grande in 1917, Carlton H. Hand served with distinction in the 349th Infantry Regiment of the 88th Infantry Division during World War II. His battlefield commission, Silver Star, Purple Heart, and two battle stars attest to his valor and sacrifice. The renaming of the Rio Grande Post Office ensures his memory will endure as part of the community he called home.

On Wednesday, September 8th, the Middle Township Police Department held its Bi-Annual Awards Dinner at the Links, Avalon Golf Club.

Mayor Chris Leusner, Committeeman Ike Gandy and Committeeman Jim Norris were proud to honor the men and women of New Jersey’s most outstanding police department – the Middle Township Police Department.

The evening recognized dedication, service, and achievements across a wide range of categories.

Congratulations to the award recipients:

Educational Achievement

• Ptlm. Daniel Wright

• Ptlm. Christian Quaranta

Police Academy Instructor

• Det. Jenna Cuomo

• Cpl. Martin Lindholm

• Cpl. Shawn Karge

L.E.A.D. Officer

• Ptl. Alyssa Jones

• Ptl. Kerri Schrader

• Ptlm. Christopher Russ

Honor Guard

• Ptl. Alyssa Jones

School Resource Officer

• Ptl. Alyssa Jones

• Ptlm. Thomas Runyon

• Ptl. Kerri Schrader

Motorcycle Unit

• Sgt. Michael Pastore

• Pfc. Matthew Martino

SWAT Team

• Cpl. Raymond Bradley

Field Training Officer

• Det. Jenna Cuomo

• Ptlm. John Sunderhauf

• Ptlm. Timothy Urquhart

• Ptlm. Christopher Russ

• Ptlm. Shawn Rocca

• Ptlm. Patrick Vendetta

DWI – Distinguished Honor

• 2023: Ptlm. John Sunderhauf

• 2024: Ptlm. John Sunderhauf

FBI National Academy

• Chief Tracey Super

Drone Team

• Sgt. Michael Pastore

• Cpl. Martin Lindholm

• Sgt. Trevor MacCormack

• Det. Thomas Reynolds

• Ptlm. Christopher Russ

• Ptl. Alyssa Jones

Crash Reconstruction Team

• Ptlm. Justin Viotla

• Pfc. Matthew Martino

• Dfc. Gregory DeCecco

• Ptlm. Shawn Rocca

Life Saving Award

• Sgt. Armondo Jones

• Ptlm. John Sunderhauf

• Ptlm. Christopher Rudy

• Ptlm. Jeffrey Rigg

• Ptlm. Blake Martindale

Exceptional Duty

• Sgt. Thomas Ritterhoff (x3)

• Ptlm. Blake Martindale

• Cpl. Shawn Karge

• Ptlm. Thomas Runyon

• Ptlm. Jeffrey Rigg

• Det. Mark Bakley

• Dfc. Gregory DeCecco (x2)

• Cpl. John Norton

• Ptlm. Ty Pettit

• Cpl. Martin Lindholm

• Sgt. Trevor MacCormack

• Det. Jenna Cuomo (x4)

• Ptlm. Kenzee Delgado

• Ptlm. Christopher Rudy (x2)

• Ptlm. Cole Pettit

• Ptlm. Patrick Vendetta

• Pfc. Matthew Martino

• Det. Joseph Trombetta (x2)

• Ptlm. Shawn Rocca

Meritorious Service

• Cpl. Shawn Karge

• Sgt. Jonas McInnis (x2)

• Ptlm. Patrick Vendetta

• Ptlm. Jeffrey Rigg

• Dfc. Gregory DeCecco

• Ptlm. Kenzee Delgado

• Ptlm. Ty Pettit

• Pfc. Matthew Martino

• Ptlm. Daniel Wright

• Ptlm. John Sunderhauf

• Ptlm. Owen Bryan

• Det. Jenna Cuomo

• Ptlm. Christopher Rudy

Honorable Service

• Ptl. Alyssa Jones

Medal of Valor

• Ptlm. Jeffrey Rigg

Good Conduct

• Dfc. Gregory DeCecco

• Ptl. Kerri Schrader

• Ptlm. Kenzee Delgado

• Ptlm. John Sunderhauf

• Ptlm. Paul Damiano

• Ptlm. Timothy Urquhart

• Det. Thomas Reynolds

Command and Leadership

• Lt. David Hagan

• Lt. Jason Sweitzer

• Lt. Leonard Larkin

Years of Service

• 5 Year: Det. Jenna Cuomo, Det. Joseph Trombetta, Ptlm. Patrick Vendetta

• 10 Year: Sgt. Michael Pastore, Records Clerk Sandy Wilson

• 20 Year: Cpl. John Norton

Senior Police Officer

• Ptlm. Justin Vitola

Top Shot

• 2023: Ptlm. Blake Martindale

• 2024: Ptlm. Blake Martindale

We are proud to celebrate the commitment of these officers who go above and beyond every day to serve and protect our community.

Minnie Callender 95th Birthday

Mayor Leusner attended a celebration for the extraordinary Minnie Callender on her 95th birthday. Mayor Leusner was honored to present Minnie with a township proclamation and share heartfelt remarks recognizing her decades of service and leadership.

We are grateful for all Minnie has given—and continues to give—to the community. 

Please join us in wishing her a very happy 95th birthday!

Bird Houses on the Bike Path

Take a walk on the bike path between Davies Recreational Sports Complex and the zoo to view the beautiful birdhouses created at our Savor the Arts Festival.

Coat Giveaway in Whitesboro

The Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro and MidAtlantic BESDA are teaming up once again to help local families stay warm this winter. A Community Coat Giveaway will take place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Historic Whitesboro Grammar School in Whitesboro, NJ. Coats in sizes 2T to 16 XXL will be distributed to those in need.

New coat donations are being accepted from October 1 through December 5 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.) at the Whitesboro Grammar School, 100 East Main Street, Whitesboro, NJ 08252.

Together, the community aims to ensure everyone has access to a warm coat this winter, spreading warmth, unity, and kindness across Whitesboro.

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