BIPARTISAN SUPPORT GROWS FOR GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP SEWER SALE REFERENDUM AS FORMER REPUBLICAN MUNICIPAL CHAIRMAN FRANK MELLACE URGES A YES VOTE
Gloucester Township, N.J. – Frank Mellace, former Gloucester Township Republican Municipal Chairman, has added his voice to the growing bipartisan support for the Gloucester Township sewer sale referendum. Mellace emphasizes the financial and practical benefits of the proposed sale, stating:
“I’m voting yes for the sewer sale to eliminate the Township debt, reduce local property taxes, and bring millions of dollars into our community. The Township doesn’t run any other utilities and shouldn’t be in the business of running the sewer. This referendum just makes plain sense to me from a business and financial perspective.”
The referendum, set to appear on the November ballot, proposes transferring ownership of the Township’s sewer system to New Jersey American Water. This move will result in a $233 million investment in Gloucester Township, including a $143 million payment for the sewer system and a $90 million investment in infrastructure improvements over the next decade. The Gloucester Township Council has pledged to use these funds to reduce and freeze local property taxes, provide free sewer lateral cleanouts for residents, and enhance community programs such as recreational facilities, senior and cultural activities, and additional support for police and first responders. Additionally, the Township has committed to guarantee continued employment for sewer employees.
Mellace's endorsement highlights the bipartisan support for the referendum, which now includes local community leaders from across the political spectrum. This unity underscores the widespread recognition of the significant benefits to Gloucester Township through the sale of the sewer system.
If the referendum does not pass, the Township will face the challenge of borrowing additional funds, significantly increasing rates, or both, to maintain the sewer system. This could result in higher property taxes, placing a financial strain on all Gloucester Township businesses and residents, homeowners and renters alike.
About New Jersey American Water
New Jersey American Water is a local Camden County company that has been serving parts of Gloucester Township for several decades, with approximately 200 employees serving and more than two dozen employees residing in Gloucester Township.
Media Contact
Denise Venuti Free, Senior Director of Communications & External Affairs
New Jersey American Water