On January 8 there was very little snow and yet again Monmouth Street was nothing but ice most of the way from King Street to Johnson Boulevard. Even if I used Market Street, which I think the county takes care of, I still have to use Monmouth for two blocks to Broadway. Where was our Street Department this time?

Actually, they were sitting at the end of Monmouth by Johnson Blvd, facing the wrong way. I was behind a car that went into the curb due to the ice on Johnson Blvd.

The car went to the right and I went to the left. I was going slow, and was at least two car lengths behind. This was around 8 a.m. Why can\’t the Street Department start earlier on days like this. My opinion is that streets should be cleared by 8 a.m., especially on a work day. I know we do not want overtime for budget reasons. So, the workers get done earlier on a day that is not so weather-related.

What\’s going to happen after the next snowstorm? Who\’s going to help should I have an accident due to ice or ruts? Do we give fines to the Street Department for not clearing the roads in a timely manner like our citizens are getting fines? I know that\’s a little much, but something has got to be done to make travel safer after a snowstorm.

Rose Dobleman, Gloucester City

Mayor William James (photo) presented a plaque to retiring Councilman William Hagan Sr., thanking him for his service to the residents not only as a Councilman but for all his years as an Ambulance Squad member.

A plaque and accolades were also presented to former Public Works Director James \”Bowie\” Johnson for his excellent dedication to the residents of the City.

Three Council people took their oaths of office.

Dan Spencer Jr., Ward One, was sworn in by County Sheriff Charles \”Chuck\” Billingham.

\”We grew up together, and I am honored to take part in this ceremony,\” Billingham said.

Spencer had served as a Councilman in the past, and was sworn in by Francis Gorman in 1984.

Nicholas Marchese Jr., Ward Two, was sworn in by State Senator Steve Sweeney.

\”I take this job very seriously,\” Marchese said. \”We should all get behind this administration for a better tomorrow.

Jay F. Brophy, Ward Three, was also sworn in by Sweeney. Brophy thanked Mr. Hagan and \”Bowie\” Johnson for their contributions to the City.

Sweeney said, \”Gloucester is a working man’s town and I will be available to give any assistance that I can to the residents.\”

City Council approved all the appointments for 2010.

Then, Mayor James gave his annual State of the City Address, see link below.

source Gloucester City News