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As Clerk of this meeting, I publicly announce that in compliance with the provisions of the “Open Public Meetings Act” adequate notice of this meeting of the Jackson Township Council has been advertised in the manner prescribed by law.
COUNCILMAN CALOGERO – I received an email from a resident, Dean Reed, who is an Academy Bus commuter and was concerned over the reduced scheduling changes to New York. As an 18-year-long Jackson/New York commuter, I’m sympathetic of these commuters and have, on occasion, intervened in the past. I discussed the issue with Council President Nixon and Administrator Schlegel. Administrator Schlegel reached out to Academy and expressed the concerns of the Governing Body. Academy agreed that the cuts were too significant and agreed to return to the schedule. Just a reminder to the residents that the Township Council is here to listen. We hear your voices and take our commitment to serve very seriously.
COUNCILMAN MARTIN – Thank you for coming out. Waived comments.
COUNCILWOMAN UPDEGRAVE – Thank you for coming out. Waived comments.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT NIXON – The Governor’s office has declared March 2016 as Women’s Veteran Month. Please join in remembering the women that so bravely serve our Country. In every Town in every State the one thing that matters the most is the maintenance and protection of the quality of life of its residents and the enforcement of its codes and law. Jackson citizens hold firm to this principal as well. It’s fair to say we all took note of the fire in Lakewood last week that uncovered what appears to have been an illegal dormitory. While no one was killed in the blaze, the incident reminds us that there are no excuses to justify such a blatant disregard for laws designed to protect the health and safety of the people.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve been speaking with people to help them address their concerns with properties they have observed in Town to be potentially unsafe or occupied outside of their lawful use. I commend the residents who brought these issues to our attention and who care enough about our town to speak out. The improper tactics of realtors, real estate spectators, panic peddlers and blockbusters hoping to prey on Jackson is an issue that concerns us all. I will say if you see something -- say something. There are resources available to address these concerns at the disposal of our residents today. I urge everyone to sign up for the No Knock Registry. Don’t believe those who attempt to try to dismiss this tool. Our law is strong, effective and its penalties hit harder than those passed in nearby towns. No single law will deter those who intend on violating it.
Jackson and its residents must use enforcement and the tools provided by Federal and State laws to address anyone willing to ignore clearly defined laws of conduct. I encourage the people of Jackson to bring anything that seems “out of the ordinary” to the attention of Code Enforcement or the Police Department. It is important that violations of our law be addressed quickly and professionally. Residents should call the Ocean County Board of Realtors and complain about aggressive real estate activities. If you see trespassers or are intimidated on the street, call the Police immediately. Blockbusting is a violation of a long standing Federal and State law. The Real Estate Commission should be notified along with Federal Law Enforcement authorities. You can speak to anyone of the Council Members,