CNBNews

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (JUNE 3, 2025)(CNBNEWS)--During the Gloucester City mayor and council meeting on May 27, 2025, a new salary schedule ordinance was approved on its second reading for elected officials, unclassified employees, and classified employees. This revised compensation structure is retroactive to January 1, 2025. 

For many years, the names of the individuals holding positions in the City of Gloucester City are omitted from the salary ordinance. Rather than providing transparency by naming individuals and their salaries, the city only offers job titles alongside the minimum and maximum salary ranges for those roles. It is crucial to remember that governmental entities do not generate their own revenue; they rely on the funds collected from taxpayers like you. Hence, you absolutely possess the right to view those names that are being withheld. You are also entitled to see the exact amount the employee is being paid. You fund his/her salary and you should be privy to the exact number. 

Take, for instance, the case of Police Chief Brian Morrell, who is also serving as the acting City Administrator. Under the new salary structure, the maximum potential salary for the Chief of Police is a staggering $240,000, while the ceiling for the City Administrator role stands at $150,000—bringing the total potential remuneration to an eye-watering $390,000. Morrell was appointed as the temporary administrator on December 30, 2020, and prior to this dual responsibility, his salary as the police chief was $140,000.

Now, let’s shed light on other roles within the city that carry maximum salaries which appear disproportionate, especially for a community where many residents face financial hardships and the city qualifies as both an Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) and an Abbott School District. The disparities in salary may seem even more striking when considering the economic reality of the residents.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of some positions and their respective maximum salaries, revealing the financial landscape of Gloucester City:

| Position | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary |
|--------------------------------------------------|-----------------|------------------|
| City Clerk | $70,000 | $115,000 |
| Superintendent of Public Works | $80,000 | $150,000 |
| Chief Housing Inspector | $70,000 | $100,000 |
| Chief of Fire | $95,000 | $150,000 |
| Chief of Police | $125,000 | $240,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer | $85,000 | $150,000 |
| City Administrator | $95,000 | $150,000 |
| Court Administrator | $63,000 | $100,000 |
| Director of Fire Department | $145,000 | $165,000 |

| Municipal Department Head/Director of Utilities | $80,000 | $150,000 |
| Tax Collector | $70,000 | $115,000 |

In other business, the council passed a total of 14 resolutions 

**Highlights of the Resolutions:**

1**Resolution 115**: The Council made a strategic move by authorizing an application to the NJ Urban Enterprise Zone Authority for a substantial grant of $550,000. This funding will be crucial for the Broadway Streetscape project.

2 **Resolution 116**: In a decision aimed at optimizing city resources, the Council approved the sale of several parcels of land that are no longer necessary for public use. This action provides an opportunity for potential redevelopment projects that could contribute to the city's economic growth and diversification.

Editor's Note: The federal government spent millions to remove radon from some of the properties listed below.

 

3. **Resolution 117**: Responding to the needs of the community, the Council approved a change order in the contract with Landberg Construction LLC concerning the ongoing King Street Parking Lot improvements. The contract amount has been reduced from $78,693 to $72,872, resulting in a savings of $5,821. This reduction reflects the Council's commitment to prudent spending while ensuring essential enhancements are made to public facilities.

4. **Resolution 119**: The city has awarded a contract to RJM Construction Services, not to exceed $20,000, for extraordinary and unspecified services. This flexible investment ensures that the city can address unexpected infrastructure challenges as they arise without delays, safeguarding the community's interests.

5. **Resolution 120**: A significant commitment to bolstering the city's infrastructure has been made with the approval of engineering contracts amounting to $520,000 with Remington and Vernick Engineers. This investment is aimed at various development projects that will improve the urban landscape and facilitate better city services.

6. **Resolution 121**: To enhance law enforcement capabilities, the Council authorized a purchase of a 2025 Chevy Tahoe, equipped with advanced technology and all-wheel drive features, designated for the Gloucester City Police Department. The vehicle, was procured at a cost of $66,000 from Hessert Chevrolet in Philadelphia, will ensure officers can travel safely and efficiently across different terrains.

7. **Resolution 122**: In a proactive approach to public safety, the Council awarded a $23,000 contract to Drager of Telford, PA, for an Alcotest 9510 device. This sophisticated breath alcohol testing instrument will bolster the police department’s ability to enforce DUI laws, thereby enhancing public safety on the streets.

8. **Resolution 123**: Another key acquisition involved the authorization for the purchase of a 2025 Ford F150 4-wheel drive vehicle, valued at $56,000, intended for the Gloucester City Utilities Department. 

9. **Resolution 124**: The Council took a proactive stance on public safety by authorizing $600,000 for Phase 2 of the City Wide Camera server and camera installations from Sonitrol Security of DE Valley, based in Wilmington, DE. This initiative aims to expand surveillance capabilities across the city, thus enhancing crime prevention and community safety measures significantly.

10. **Resolution 128**: The Council recognized the importance of infrastructure with a $111,600 contract awarded to Remington and Vernick Engineers. This contract is dedicated to implementing critical improvements on the bustling 800-block of Division Street, aiming to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and overall accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

11. **Personnel Announcement**: The governing body promoted Officer Joanna James to the position of Detective. Starting date June 1, 2025, salary $105,112.57 

In conclusion, the governing body approved payments totaling an impressive $2,137,621 for bills accumulated in April and May.