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Gloucester Township Residents Approve Fire Department Funding

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 0:39 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ - February 26th, 2026 - Residents of Gloucester Township demonstrated strong support for their local fire department on Tuesday, overwhelmingly approving two crucial referendums designed to bolster fire safety and emergency response capabilities. The results signal a significant investment in the community's well-being and a clear mandate for proactive public safety measures.

The two ballot measures, both passing with substantial majorities, authorized the township to purchase a new fire engine and to hire six additional full-time firefighters. Unofficial results tallied 2,249 votes in favor and 563 against the fire engine purchase, while the measure to hire additional personnel garnered 2,211 'yes' votes to 591 'no' votes.

Mayor Joann Carrino expressed deep gratitude to the community following the successful vote. "We are extremely grateful to the residents of Gloucester Township for their support," she stated. "These referendums will help us continue to provide the high level of service that our community deserves."

The $945,000 allocated for the new fire engine represents a substantial upgrade to the township's emergency vehicle fleet. While the current fleet serves the community adequately, aging equipment requires increasingly frequent and costly maintenance. A new engine will not only reduce long-term repair expenses but also provide crucial technological advancements in firefighting capabilities. Experts indicate that modern fire engines incorporate features such as enhanced pump capacity, improved maneuverability, and advanced fire suppression systems - all of which contribute to faster and more effective response times.

The addition of six full-time firefighters is equally impactful. Gloucester Township has experienced moderate growth in recent years, alongside an increase in both residential and commercial properties. This expansion has stretched the existing fire department's resources, potentially impacting response times, especially during peak hours or multiple concurrent emergencies. The new firefighters will allow for more comprehensive staffing levels, enabling faster deployment, more thorough emergency scene management, and improved coverage across the township.

Fire Chief Robert Pacilio highlighted the significance of these investments. "These are important investments in the safety and security of our community," he said. He explained that the additional personnel will be strategically deployed to enhance coverage in areas experiencing the most growth and to ensure adequate staffing during peak demand periods. Chief Pacilio also noted the benefits of having a more robust team for specialized training, such as advanced technical rescue and hazardous materials handling.

Local residents echoed the sentiment that supporting the fire department is a vital community responsibility. Barbara Johnson, a long-time resident of Gloucester Township, stated, "They're always there when you need them. It's important to support our first responders." This sentiment was widely shared at polling locations throughout the township, indicating a strong sense of community pride and appreciation for the dedication of the local fire department.

The approval of these referendums comes at a time when municipalities nationwide are facing increasing pressure to balance budget constraints with the growing need for enhanced public safety services. Gloucester Township's decisive action demonstrates a commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its residents. The township is exploring several grant opportunities to potentially offset a portion of the costs associated with both the fire engine purchase and the new personnel.

Looking ahead, the Gloucester Township Fire Department plans to host a community event to showcase the new fire engine and introduce the new firefighters to the public. This event will provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the department's services and to express their gratitude to the men and women who serve the community. The department will also be launching a public education campaign focused on fire prevention and safety tips, further reinforcing its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Gloucester Township residents.