Evaluating Jackson Township’s Code Enforcement: Efficiency and Accountability
Councilman Giuseppe Palmeri, April 2025
Code enforcement is a critical function of municipal government, ensuring that local ordinances related to property maintenance, zoning, and safety are upheld. A well-run code enforcement department helps maintain the quality of life for residents, prevents blight, and ensures properties are kept in compliance with local laws. However, when a department becomes disproportionately large compared to neighboring municipalities, taxpayers have a right to ask whether their money is being spent efficiently.
In Jackson Township, the size of the code enforcement department raises serious questions. Compared to nearby towns with similar or even larger populations, Jackson’s department appears to be significantly larger—yet residents report a lack of responsiveness and follow-through on complaints.
To put Jackson’s code enforcement staffing into perspective, let’s compare it to several other municipalities in Ocean and Monmouth Counties:
• Toms River, NJ (a town larger than Jackson) has:
• 1 Code Enforcement Supervisor
• 2 Code Enforcement Officers
• 2 Office Staff
• Manchester, NJ has:
• 1 Code Enforcement Supervisor
• 1 Code Enforcement Officer
• Plumsted, NJ has:
• 1 Code Enforcement Officer
• Seaside Heights, NJ has:
• 3 Code Enforcement Officers
• Point Pleasant, NJ has:
• 1 Code Enforcement Officer
• Freehold, NJ has:
• 1 Code Enforcement Director
• 1 Code Enforcement Officer
Meanwhile, Jackson Township has:
• 2 Code Enforcement Supervisors
• 7 Code Enforcement Officers
• 2 Supporting Staff Members
At first glance, one might assume that with a department of this size, Jackson’s code enforcement would be exceptionally responsive and efficient. However, based on resident feedback, that does not appear to be the case.
Despite having a significantly larger staff than many neighboring towns, Jackson’s code enforcement department is not operating with the efficiency one would expect. Residents have expressed frustration over slow response times, lack of follow-up, and the feeling that their concerns are not being addressed.
One resident shared a particularly concerning story: for two years, they have repeatedly contacted Jackson’s code enforcement office—by phone and email—regarding a property that has been in clear violation of township regulations. Despite their persistent outreach, the property remains largely unchanged, raising the question: why is a department with so many employees struggling to enforce basic ordinances?
With a code enforcement department of this size, residents should expect quicker response times, better communication, and more consistent enforcement of property maintenance codes. Instead, the complaints suggest a department that is either overwhelmed with bureaucracy or not being managed effectively.
Jackson Township taxpayers deserve a code enforcement department that works efficiently, not one that drains resources while leaving issues unresolved. That’s why the Jackson Township Council is actively reviewing all departments for efficiencies and working to streamline processes to make it easier for residents to get the services they need.
At the same time, residents should continue to report violations and hold the department accountable. If you see a property or situation that requires attention, report it to Jackson Township Code Enforcement by calling 732-928-1200 or emailing acheney@jacksontwpnj.net.
Code enforcement should be about action, not just staffing numbers. With ongoing efforts to improve municipal services, there is an opportunity to make Jackson’s code enforcement more effective, responsive, and beneficial to all residents.