A petition has been launched calling on the Lakewood Township Committee to reinstate in-person public meetings beginning January 2025, citing the need for transparency, accountability, and increased community engagement. The petition outlines concerns over the continuation of virtual meetings since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly limited resident participation.
The petition, addressed to the Lakewood Township Committee, highlights the critical role in-person meetings have historically played in fostering dialogue between residents and local officials. Before the pandemic, meetings were held regularly at Town Hall, allowing constituents to raise concerns, ask questions, and engage directly with committee members and town professionals.
“These meetings served as a vital platform for residents to interact with committee members, pose questions, raise awareness about pressing issues, object to proposed projects, and engage with town professionals,” the petition reads. “They yielded tangible results, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.”
Since transitioning to virtual meetings during the pandemic, participation has dwindled, as many residents either lack access to the necessary technology or struggle with its use. The petition also points out that while other governing bodies have resumed in-person meetings, Lakewood’s committee has not followed suit.
One of the petition’s focal points is the annual reorganization meeting traditionally held each January. Prior to the pandemic, this meeting served as an opportunity for the community to witness and participate in the establishment of key appointments and resolutions for the year. In its virtual format, the meeting now lasts only a few minutes, leaving residents feeling excluded from meaningful engagement in the township’s decision-making process.
“We believe it is essential to restore this practice, ensuring that our community is informed and involved,” the petition states. Advocates argue that in-person meetings will not only enhance transparency but also rebuild trust and strengthen connections between residents and their local government.
This town town is a lost cause lol
I think it is a great idea and should be done
This petition is a great idea, it would be an even BETTER idea if it was addressed to the members of the Lakewood committee instead of to 3 random officials from 3 three random townships (little egg harbor, Stafford & lacey twps)….
I literally tried a petition-it didn’t get too far.
I genuinely hope this works.
Dear Lakewood Resident,
As we look ahead, we find ourselves at a critical juncture for the safety and well-being of our community. There is a growing concern about the government’s attention—or lack thereof—to crucial issues such as traffic safety, inadequate street lighting, and illegal parking. We anticipate that unless steps are taken to address these problems, they will continue to escalate, potentially putting our residents at risk.
Our children’s safety is particularly vulnerable, especially considering the dangerous parking situations around schools. If the government does not take action soon, we fear these conditions will only worsen. Despite numerous complaints from residents, we hope that public meetings will eventually be held to address our concerns and facilitate a dialogue for solutions.
The traffic congestion we’re experiencing might become even more unbearable if proactive measures aren’t implemented. We must rallytogether and advocate for accountability, ensuring that the safety of our community remains a top priority as we move forward. Let’s stand united in our commitment to securing a safer future for Lakewood.