One Minute to Mansfield - Episode 5 - Town Meeting Recap - 10/08/2025

The October 8 Mansfield Township Committee meeting covered routine approvals, new fees, and multiple resolutions tied to ongoing development activity. Beneath the surface, there were several items residents should pay attention to.

Fire Prevention Week 2025

The meeting opened with a proclamation recognizing Fire Prevention Week, honoring local fire officials including Fire Marshal Matt Lopez and Fire Chiefs John Hague of Tri-County Fire Company and Joe LeClair of Mansfield Township Fire Company.
This year’s national theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety,” focused on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries in homes and businesses.

Over $1.3 Million in Township Payments Approved

The Committee approved $1,332,326.91 in municipal obligations across several funds, including current operations, developer escrows, and grants.
The bill list included items such as uniform reimbursements, vehicle maintenance, consulting services, and more than $98,000 in health benefits payments.

Ordinance 030-2025: New “Special Circumstance” Fees

A new ordinance amended the township’s fee schedule by adding two new charges:

• $1,000 Special Circumstance Review Escrow Fee, as determined by the Township Engineer

• $25 Application Fee for that review

The term “special circumstance” is not defined anywhere in the ordinance or the municipal code. That means the township can apply this fee at its own discretion, potentially adding unpredictable costs for residents or small businesses submitting nonstandard applications.

Residents should ask:

• What qualifies as a “special circumstance”?

• Who decides when these fees apply, the Engineer or the Clerk?

• Will the township define these circumstances to ensure consistent and fair application?

  
  

Heavy Developer Activity

Several resolutions involved Ryan Homes and The Meadows at Mansfield. The township approved refunds totaling more than $15,000 in driveway escrows while also accepting new driveway, landscaping, and grading bonds for additional homes under construction.

Residents should ask.

• Are inspections fully completed before refunds are issued?

• Has the township verified drainage, grading, and road restoration on these properties?

• How is the township tracking developer compliance to prevent long-term issues?

  
  

Lead-Based Paint Inspections for Rentals

The township awarded Lew Environmental Services a contract to handle state-mandated lead-based paint testing for rental properties. There will be no cost to taxpayers. Landlords are responsible for paying inspection costs and a $20 state fee under N.J.A.C. 5:28A-1.
The program applies to all single and two-family rental units built before 1978 unless previously certified as lead-free.

Residents should ask:

• When will landlords receive official notices?

• Will the township make compliance information publicly available?

• How will enforcement be handled for noncompliant properties?

  
  

Executive Session

The Committee concluded the meeting by entering executive session under Resolution 243-2025. The subject of discussion was not disclosed. Meeting minutes must be made public once the reason for confidentiality no longer applies.

Residents should ask:

• What topics were discussed in the executive session?

• When will those minutes be released?

  
  

The Takeaway

This meeting may have appeared routine, but it raised important questions about transparency, developer accountability, and fee clarity. Residents deserve a full understanding of how township funds are spent, what new costs may affect property owners, and how local development is being managed.

Transparency is not only about legal compliance. It is about ensuring every resident understands how local government decisions impact their taxes, neighborhoods, and community future.

Full Meeting Audio

MANSFIELD TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING

October 8th, 2025 - 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Downloadable Files

Meeting Agenda - Here

Meeting Minutes - Here

Bill List - Here

Mansfield Township Committee Meeting Summary For Residents