The Mantua Township committee meeting on Feb. 14 began with a proclamation designating February American Heart Month.
Deputy Mayor Bob Zimmerman took particular pride in that, given that he survived open-heart surgery a decade ago.
“As a survivor and someone fighting heart disease, it’s been a passion to promote awareness throughout our community,” he said. “Heart disease can be controlled by diet, exercise and reducing stress, amongst other things.
“February is Heart Month, and there’s no better time than now to promote heart- healthy lifestyles.”
Later in the week, Zimmerman and Mayor Pete Scirrotto presented the signed proclamation to Mantua resident William Dougherty.
“Heart disease is the nation’s leading cause of death. There are scans and tests available to determine who’s at risk,” Dougherty noted. “Proactive heart care has helped extend my life.”
During the committee meeting, Scirrotto swore in full-time Mantua police officer Tyler Robertson, and Thomas Cirone was named a special law enforcement officer. The police department was approved to participate in the 1033 program, which allows it to acquire equipment and property from the federal Department of Defense.
Tax refunds, construction-permit fees and other expenses were approved for funding, including the ongoing Royal Oaks and Austin Street sewer pump station project funded by the township utility’s authority.
A shared-service agreement with Mantua, Harrison and Glassboro was authorized to incorporate a regional plan for Rowan University’s west campus redevelopment area on Route 322. A memorandum of understanding was then approved to cooperate with Rowan and Bio Energy.
Many residents were appointed to leadership positions throughout the township. Art Olsen was appointed to the Mantua Township Historical Commission, Candice Pennewell will serve a four-year term as the township’s chief financial officer and members were added to the township board of health.
The meeting closed with the committee awarding a township-issued firearm to Gregory Sweeney, who recently retired from the Mantua police department. An agreement was also executed with the officer for release of his firearm.
The next township committee meeting will be held on Monday, March 21, at 6 p.m. in the municipal building.
