HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Mayor Gallagher met with more than 18 State officials, including representatives from the Governor’s Office, in response to residents’ concerns regarding the influx of children to the Hanover Township school system that has resulted from the placement of families in transition by the State and other government agencies. The group discussed strategies to address the growing need for transitional family housing, the current state of family placements, and the financial impact on the Township’s schools and municipal services.
The August 21 meeting in Trenton was organized by Senator Pennacchio, Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock, and the Township Attorney Fred Semrau.
Mayor Gallagher summarized the meeting by stating the following “I am pleased to advise our residents that we have been heard by the State officials, and we believe that the discussions will lead to changes that benefit Hanover Township, our residents, and the families in transition. We will have a series of follow-up meetings with the Office of the Commissioner of Education and the Department of Community Affairs and look forward to continuing to work with the Governor’s staff to address the concerns shared by Township officials and residents. I want to thank the State officials and Senator Pennacchio for spearheading this meeting on short notice and seeking a path of real solutions for our residents.
The Governing Body of Hanover Township continues to hear residents’ concerns and will continue to take the necessary steps to have our voices heard and protect the health, safety, and welfare of our residents. We will continue to apprise you of our progress. ”
