The Glassboro Borough Council Meeting unveiled a major redevelopment plan at their monthly meeting on March 25 detailing a $1.7 million land sale that aims to bring 92 new homes and a 175-unit luxury apartment complex to the downtown area.

Local officials view their vision as a walkable, mixed-use district with apartment structures featuring rooftop decks, small gardens, and new restaurants, designed to attract long-term residents rather than Rowan students. The announcement was part of a broader discussion on tax increases, policing challenges, budget plans, and the overall future of the borough as Glassboro continues its ongoing efforts to reshape its downtown into a vibrant, main hub balancing both the Rowan University and Glassboro communities.

“We envision this downtown as a mix of those students and citizens, and we envision this as a very walkable downtown. When you park your car on the weekend, there should be restaurants for you, there should be bars for you,” said administrator Edward Malandro.

Apart from the discussion on the redevelopment plan, borough officials also introduced the 2025 municipal budget, highlighting the modest tax rate increase aimed at maintaining essential services for residents. While the budget includes a four-cent tax hike, the council members emphasized that water and sewage rates would remain unchanged. This would mark the second tax increase within the last seven years, a point that the current local governing body framed as a sign of fiscal responsibility and overall growth.  

“We didn’t have to raise water and sewer rates this year, which is always great, and it’s a pretty solid budget that allows us to provide the services needed and keep the rates low,” said Karen Cosgrove, the municipal clerk for the borough of Glassboro.

Another highlight from the main Glassboro council meeting was the promotion of three officers from the Glassboro Police Department into new roles. Surrounded by their friends, family and loved ones, Officer Stephen Cavallaro was sworn in as Lieutenant, Officer Joseph Armata was sworn in as Sergeant, and Officer Brett Virnelson was sworn in as Corporal. Additionally, the Glassboro Police Department recognized the winners of the 2024 Supervisor of The Year and Officer of The Year awards, the honors going to Corporal Andrew Roberts and Patrol Officer Tim Cain respectively.

These promotions and presentations come at a time where council members like Malandro acknowledge that Glassboro is facing challenges in recruiting and retaining police officers. Local officials noted that filling the open positions has become increasingly difficult, with fewer applicants than in previous years.

“We actually struggle to get police officers these days. Nobody wants to be a police officer. I think the scrutiny on police officers today is so much that there’s a lot more to lose in some people’s opinions than there is to gain. The other problem, quite frankly, is working in a college town, it is extremely hard,” said Malandro.

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