Ocean Twp. council reorganizes, sets agenda Traffic congestion, open space are priorities BY LORIANNE OLIWA Correspondent The Ocean Township Council OCEAN TOWNSHIP - - The Town-ship Council met July 2 to conclude old business, devise an agenda for the coming year and to choose the mayor and deputy mayor for the next four years. William F. Larkin, who has presided as mayor for the last 16 years, was again tapped for the top spot on the dais. "I am quite proud of the fact that the last election was uncontested. That was indeed the first regularly scheduled municipal election in the township where the slate was unopposed," he said. Larkin also said he was "extremely proud" of the fact that the municipal tax rate has been stable for 13 years. "That is getting tougher and tougher," he added. J. David Hiers, who has been a council member since November 2002, will reprise his role as deputy mayor. Hiers stated previously that the uncontested election "proved that the township has had solid representation." The council was officially sworn in at the reorganization meeting, but also held a ceremonial and public swearing-in during the evening of July 2, prior to the fireworks in Joe Palaia Park. "The fireworks were fabulous," Larkin stated, "and the residents really seemed to enjoy them." Commenting on the council's priorities, Larkin was quick to mention traffic and congestion. "Traffic is a challenge that the council will have to address," he said. To alleviate congestion on West Park Avenue, Larkin specified that a jughandle will be constructed on Route 35 north, opposite the Twinbrooke apartment complex. "There will be an open barrier and traffic light, and this will certainly help in reducing congestion," he said. Larkin also stated that by Aug. 15, there should be a signed contract in place for the purchase of the Colonial Terrace Golf Club. "We will be buying the remaining land and will keep this open as a golf course. Any resident or nonresident will be able to enjoy it," he said. Larkin also stated in a previous interview that the acquisition of open space would be a priority for the council. While most of the faces on council have remained the same, the township is not without change. On Aug. 20, a new township manager will start - Andrew G. Brannen - who is currently city manager for Princeton City, Ill. Brannen is replacing longtime manager Dave Kochel, who recently retired but is serving as acting township manager during the transition. "Andrew was one of two finalists," Larkin said, "and we are anxious to get him on board." The other council members also weighed in briefly on their re-election and priorities. William J. Garofalo, the newest council member, expressed his gratitude. "I am grateful to Mayor Larkin and the council for supporting my candidacy. I am very anxious to begin my term," he said. Christopher Siciliano lauded the services in the township, particularly the recreation department. "I am always looking to expand the recreational programs, with an emphasis on our growing senior population," he stated. Donna Schepiga is a proponent of increasing the amount of community-centered activities and would like to make plans for new events. "I would like to have a tree-lighting ceremony for Christmas and a Mayor's Ball in late summer," she said. The next regular council meeting will be held Wednesday, July 23, at 8 p.m., according to the township Web site, www.oceantwp.org.