DOVER – In response to escalating safety concerns and increasingly disruptive behavior during recent in-person Town Council meetings, the Mayor and Town Council of Dover have announced that all future meetings will be held virtually. This decision, made in accordance with the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.), is intended to preserve public access while restoring safety, order, and decorum in local governance.
“Over the past several weeks, our meetings have been marred by behavior that has no place in public service,” said Mayor James P. Dodd. “We have witnessed individuals wearing full facial coverings, altering their voices, and delivering crude, vulgar remarks—including sexually explicit references and disturbing comments. These actions have turned our council chambers into a spectacle that undermines the dignity of public discourse.”
One particularly offensive incident involved a man disguised as a Muslim woman, who went as far as to speak in a woman’s voice while making derogatory comments about the Muslim faith—including a disturbing reference to being “stoned” if the burka he was inappropriately wearing were removed. This deliberate impersonation caused significant distress to a resident of Iranian descent who practices Islam and was left in tears after witnessing such a blatant mockery of her faith and culture.
“When a respected local pastor felt compelled to leave a meeting for his own safety, and a Muslim resident was moved to tears by a display of religious mockery, it was clear we had to act,” said Mayor Dodd. “We are committed to providing a space where everyone feels safe, heard, and respected.”
The shift to a virtual meeting format is a proactive measure that aligns with N.J.S.A. 10:4-9(b), which permits electronic meetings as long as the public retains full access and the opportunity to provide comment. “This move is not a retreat from public input—it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to protecting it,” Mayor Dodd emphasized. “Our virtual meetings will allow all voices to be heard in a civil, secure environment—without the circus.”
Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and attend upcoming virtual council meetings. Instructions for accessing and participating in the meetings will be made available on the Town website at www.dover.nj.us.
“This decision wasn’t made lightly,” said Mayor Dodd. “But we cannot allow a small group to hijack the democratic process and create a toxic atmosphere that discourages community participation. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and—above all—civility in government.”
