LAKEHURST – Borough Council and school officials are looking to improve their relationship and recently held a second meeting to see where they can work together to improve life within the community.
Last month Councilwoman Patrica Hodges and Council President Jeffrey Emmons met with representatives of the Lakehurst Board of Education and their business administrator, Joseph Firetto to find some common ground. They also spoke to the Superintendent Loren Fuhring who assured the council members that the curriculum concerns – particularly in the lower grades – were being actively addressed.
During the latest Borough Council meeting Hodges, who is the council liaison to the Board of Education, emphasized that both bodies ultimately serve the same taxpayers and should be cooperating more.
She noted that the follow-up meeting held on April 13 concerned more specific issues. “We had a snow removal agreement in place. I am not sure how it fell out but they (school district) would like to have that agreement reinstated. I would like to suggest that we do that and that we do that every year when the calendar year ends. We have the agreement in perpetuity … so they can have that in place in the winter.”
“There was a question about the special resource officer and the payment for that. They are very happy with this person (who currently serves as school resource officer). I think at this point we put $70,000 in the budget,” she added.
“It seemed like they asked for things. What did we ask for in return?” Mayor Harry Robbins asked.
Hodges replied, “I understand that and I think that would be the reaction that people might have, however at the end of the day, all of us, the council and board serve the community and we tap into the same taxpayer base.”
“We are educating those kids. I understand, somebody has to be the parent. They are asking for something, yes, but I don’t see that what they are asking for from us is a burden. I think this might open the door for things down the road,” she added.
The mayor asked Emmons to consult with Police Chief Matt Kline about “what it will cost the chief about that resource officer. That is a start.”
Emmons said “we are both looking to work on a grant together for that empty lot on the corner of Lake Street and Pine Street.”
“That baseball field out there. We had an agreement with the Board of Ed and they reneged on it. They were supposed to put so much toward that ball field and do the lot that Mr. Emmons was talking about. They just ignored it and ignored us. I understand that they want things in now they don’t have people to shovel the snow?” the mayor noted.
“They are asking for when it is a major snow storm,” Hodges replied.
“Maybe I have a chip on my shoulder but what you have brought to the table is worthwhile for all of us and we will give it thought and we will address it,” the mayor added.
It was noted during the meeting that the Borough received a Local Recreation Improvement Grant (LRIG). The award was for $68,700 to improve the basketball court at Fuccile Sports Complex.
Borough officials recognized National Library Week with a presentation to a representative of the Manchester branch of the Ocean County Library. The proclamation noted that “libraries spark creativity, fuel imagination, and inspire lifelong learning, offering a space where individuals of all ages can find joy through exploration and discovery; and serve as vibrant community hubs, connecting people with knowledge, technology, and resources while fostering civic engagement, critical thinking, and cultural enrichment.”
The proclamation noted that libraries also “provide free and equitable access to books, digital tools and innovative programming ensuring that all individuals – regardless of background – have the support they need to learn, connect, and thrive.”
The governing body and public also celebrated the 100th birthday of resident Victoria Galione with a proclamation. Galione “has been a cherished and beloved resident of the Borough of Lakehurst, since 1988, enriching our community with her grace, warmth, and enduring spirit; and dedicated her professional life to serving our nation as a Civilian Secretary at the Naval Air Station Lakehurst.”
The proclamation noted that Galione had demonstrated “exceptional commitment and service to the United States and the defense of our country.”
“Galione has witnessed a century of remarkable history, demonstrating resilience, strength, and an unwavering love of family and community throughout her extraordinary life; and reaching one hundred years of age is a truly remarkable achievement and a testament toa life well-lived, surrounded by family, friends, and the community who love and admire her deeply,” the proclamation added.
Mayor Robbins read the mayoral proclamation which concluded stating, “we invite all residents to join us in celebrating this extraordinary milestone in the life of a truly remarkable woman.”
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