Recreation Commission Meeting Recap: Camp Investigations, Facility Updates, and Policy Changes

The 7/28/26 Recreation Commission meeting lasted over 3 hours, and topics ranged from the normal business of the Commission to the anonymous complaint sent to the state and county about Playground Camp.

The Commission discussed plans to refurbish the tennis courts by installing a new membrane cover and the status of the outdoor water hydration station project.

The Commission also reviewed the Summer Recreation Camp policies and procedures related to financial operations that resulted from the investigation into the Recreation Department, initiated in an email from the Township Attorney to Carolyn George dated 11/12/25, and the draft document resulting from the evaluation conducted by Suplee, Clooney & Co. that the Township continues to refuse to provide to the public.

NJ21st submitted a modified request for the report (after multiple failed attempts) for only the portion of the report the Council and Attorney relied on for it’s presentation but public access continues to be denied.

A discussion ensued about possible actions in response to the anonymous complaint sent to the “youth camp” email with the DOH. As a result of these two investigations, “minimal” issues were found, which have been and are being addressed and corrected.

There was also discussion about a 2025 Recreation Department Questionnaire, generated by the Township Attorney, that included language regarding financial records.

The Commission addressed salaries for the Recreation Director and Associate Director as the Commission hopefully moves forward to establish a Commission and Department that are structured to successfully reach the greater community with programs that address the needs and wants of Berkeley Heights.

An interaction between the Commission and the Township Engineer regarding Lower Columbia was mentioned. The Commission also noted that requests have been made by organizations to use the facilities at Lower Columbia.

The evening also featured a discussion about the senior bus, which is no longer able to provide rides to seniors. Possible alternatives were mentioned and will be reviewed by the Commission.

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