A proposed regional prison in Winslow Township, Camden County, sparked heated debate and strong opposition from residents at a township committee meeting.
A plan to build a regional prison on the grounds of Ancora Psychiatric Hospital in Winslow Township drew heated debate at a township committee meeting, with residents voicing strong opposition and concerns about being left out of the process.
More than 100 residents filled the municipal building to express frustration over the proposed 2,000-bed prison, which would replace Camden County Prison and is scheduled to open in 2031. Many attendees said they felt kept in the dark about the project and demanded township leaders take a stand against it."If you had any balls, you would pass a resolution to tell the state we do not want a 2000-bed prison in our township," said Liz Capoferri, a Winslow Township resident. "Why aren't you strong enough to listen to your constituents and shut this thing down," said Capoferri.Some residents said they were disappointed with the committee’s response and lack of clear opposition to the plan. "I'm disappointed tonight even more. More residents are here. More residents want you to support them, and you are not doing it and haven't said how you feel," said Marcie Tomasello, a resident.The meeting was marked by vocal outbursts and calls for more transparency, with some attendees urging the committee to represent the community’s interests.Not everyone in the crowd opposed the township’s handling of the situation. "Work together. You all come here tonight to attack our mayor and governing body about a prison that she has nothing to do with. It's the state," said Mamie Brown, a resident.Mayor Marie Lawrence addressed the crowd, saying the township’s involvement is limited and that discussions about the regional prison are still in early stages. "My understanding in discussions regarding this are preliminary at best," said Mayor Lawrence.The mayor also said that much of the information circulating is not confirmed. "At this time and until its factual, and you heard me factual information is received regarding this regional project, the township is in no position to take any position," said Lawrence.The mayor told residents that Camden County and others involved in the proposed regional facility will hold public meetings, and updates will be posted on the Winslow Township website so residents can stay informed and make their voices heard.The meeting was the second on the matter, reflecting ongoing concern and debate in the community about the future of the proposed prison.It is not yet clear when or if the township will take an official position on the proposed prison, or what specific steps will be taken next in the planning process.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Woman cited for leaving dog outside in freezing temperatures: Brunswick Hills Township Police BlotterAlso in this week’s Brunswick Hills Township Police blotter, a woman is cited for criminal damaging at a Pearl Road bar.
Read more »
Funeral arrangements announced for Camden firefighter who died during incident on Delaware RiverFuneral arrangements have been announced for a Camden firefighter who died during a routine maintenance operation on the Delaware River last week.
Read more »
Woman stalked, killed in alleged domestic violence case in Bristol Township, police sayA Philadelphia man has been arrested for murder in what the Bucks County District Attorney is calling a case of domestic violence in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania.
Read more »
Girls state team tournament preview: Jackson Township and High Point are top seedsAction begins next Tuesday in first ever NJSIAA State Girls Wrestling Tournament
Read more »
Traffic Alert: Large outdoor fire closes Highway 17 near Dover Bluff, causes evacuations for Camden County subdivisionA large outdoor fire has closed Highway 17 near Dover Bluff and caused an evacuation for a Camden County subdivision on Tuesday, the Camden County Fire Rescue Department said.
Read more »
Police post video showing drivers passing stopped school buses in Neshaminy School DistrictPolice in Middletown Township, Bucks County, are highlighting drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.
Read more »