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STONE HARBOR’S NEW PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR PREPARES FOR SUMMER WITH MIX OF EXPERIENCE, PERSONALITY AND MOTIVATION “TO SERVE THIS PLACE WE LOVE”

STONE HARBOR’S NEW PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR PREPARES FOR SUMMER WITH MIX OF EXPERIENCE, PERSONALITY AND MOTIVATION “TO SERVE THIS PLACE WE LOVE”

“Everyone knows ‘Rocky…’”

STONE HARBOR, N.J.—The annual ritual of preparing for summer is well underway at Jersey Shore towns and beaches and countless households planning their summer getaways. Shorts and t-shirts, bathing suits, sandals, beach towels, umbrellas and chairs, reservations, badges—it’s all part of the seasonal do-list.

And in many municipal buildings, as well as households, all those details are managed by a reliable manager who’s organized, instinctively knows priorities, assigns tasks, keeps the checklist and makes sure everything is ready for days or weeks of sun and surf.  Seeing the big picture, and sweating the small stuff, with a smile, is a prized skill set—and a big responsibility.

It’s also an apt job description in Stone Harbor, where Francisco “Rocky” Tirado has embraced the responsibility for many aspects of a whole town’s summer season.  Appointed director of public works on April 15, Rocky now leads the borough’s public works team of 38 full-time staffers and 28 part-time, seasonal employees .

He sees the big picture of a manicured town loved by residents and visitors who rely on his department for storm impacts or street repairs. And he takes care of the small stuff that many people never see, like vehicle repairs, trash pickup, park and beach maintenance and special services for a full calendar of community special events. There’s no job too big or too small.

Rocky knows this territory perhaps better than most, because, over his 37 years in Stone Harbor, he’s worked in nearly every section of the public works department including buildings, solid waste, carpentry, electrical and other specialties—even computer systems. Before his appointment as director, he served as assistant director, foreman and shop steward.  Since his hiring in 1988, he “rose through the ranks” through a series of promotions leading to the top job.  Along the way, “we work with every department” from police and fire to utilities and administration.

No doubt part of Rocky’s success comes from his affable, outgoing personality. His years of experience and frequent banter with residents and visitors have made him a public ambassador for the borough and valued member of the Stone Harbor community at large.  As one borough council member remarked, “everyone knows Rocky.”

Rocky’s career progression is built on his family background with the help of mentors along the way.  A native of Puerto Rico, he moved to the U.S. mainland at age 20, settling in Cape May Court House near other family members who had already relocated.  A job referral to the former Sawyer Electric in Cape May Court House started his career with an electrical focus. Soon after, another referral to Stone Harbor brought him to his lifelong career—and ambition.

Did he always aspire to lead the Borough’s public works department? “I didn’t expect some doors to open, but with a combination of the right people, the right place and the right opportunities,” he’s forged a successful career in Stone Harbor.  “People in Stone Harbor love and care about their town and have very high standards” for what they want it to be, he explains. Their trust is a perhaps his most important motivator.

And, while Borough leadership has undergone many changes over his 37 years’ employment, elected officials and staff members have clearly trusted him, too.  “I’m an open book,” he says. “I’ll give advice to the mayor just as I would to any resident or visitor.

“Every day, I try to do what’s best for the town and work by the rules, always to be truthful and consistent. It’s an honor to serve this place we love.”

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Francisco 'Rocky' Tirado, the new Director of Public Works in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, stands in front of a lush green bush and a sign that reads "Stone Harbor" in gold lettering below a golden seashell.
STONE HARBOR’S NEW PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR PREPARES FOR SUMMER WITH MIX OF EXPERIENCE, PERSONALITY AND MOTIVATION “TO SERVE THIS PLACE WE LOVE”2025-05-20T09:37:51-04:00

NEW MUNICIPAL CLERK APPOINTED IN STONE HARBOR

NEW MUNICIPAL CLERK APPOINTED IN STONE HARBOR

Duties include public records management, council agendas, election supervision, legal notices

STONE HARBOR, N.J. — (May 9, 2025)—Stone Harbor Borough Council has appointed a new borough clerk to manage public records, public meeting agendas and legal notices, overseeing municipal elections and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in all municipal functions.

The new clerk, Jeanne M. Parkinson, begins her duties May 19. She succeeds Emily Dillon who accepted a similar position in another municipality last month.

Parkinson served as City Clerk in the City of Millville, Cumberland County, for nine years through 2024. Earlier this year, she was appointed deputy clerk in Ocean City, Cape May County.

She holds state certifications of Registered Municipal Clerk and Certified Municipal Registrar, and has been an active leader within the Cumberland County Municipal Clerks Association, serving as both vice president and treasurer. Her expertise spans the full breadth of clerk responsibilities, from records retention and Open Public Records Act (OPRA) compliance to licensing, contract oversight, and agenda preparation.

Stone Harbor Council President Jennifer Gensemer highlighted Parkinson’s qualifications. “She has demonstrated exceptional skill in managing public meetings with precision and respect for parliamentary procedure, overseeing elections with integrity, and ensuring full legal compliance in all municipal functions.”

Gensemer added, “Beyond her impressive resume, Ms. Parkinson has consistently shown dedication to transparency, accountability, and customer service — values that are essential to the role of Borough Clerk and to the relationship between the public and their government.”

Parkinson also acknowledged Borough leadership. “It is an honor and privilege to serve the Borough of Stone Harbor as Municipal Clerk,” she said. “I look forward to providing the governing body, residents, and visitors with transparency, respect, and unwavering integrity. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.”

Newly appointed Stone Harbor Municipal Clerk Jeanne M. Parkinson smiles while holding her credentials.
NEW MUNICIPAL CLERK APPOINTED IN STONE HARBOR2025-05-14T12:43:23-04:00

Statement from the Borough of Stone Harbor on the Passing of Robert Brewer

Statement from the Borough of Stone Harbor on the Passing of Robert Brewer

The Borough of Stone Harbor is deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Robert David Brewer, a valued member of our community and a longtime employee of our Public Works Department. Robert passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, at the age of 57.

For 16 years, Robert served the Borough with dedication, care, and integrity as Supervisor of the Solid Waste, Beaches/Streets, and Auto departments within Public Works. His steadfast commitment to the safety, cleanliness, and well-being of our town left a meaningful and lasting impact on both his colleagues and our residents.

“Robert was genuinely liked and well-respected by all Borough employees,” said Bunny Parzych, Stone Harbor Committee Chair of Public Works. “But most especially by those who worked with him daily in Public Works. He will be greatly missed.”

Outside of his professional role, Robert also gave his time selflessly as a member of the Dennis Volunteer Fire Company and the NJ Forest Fire Service. His service-oriented spirit, friendly demeanor, and generous nature made him a beloved figure throughout Cape May County.

We extend our deepest condolences to Robert’s family, especially his sister Cheryl and his stepchildren Meghan, Gianna, Kassandra, and Peyton. He will be dearly missed, but his contributions to Stone Harbor and the legacy of his good nature and dedication will be remembered always.

Statement from the Borough of Stone Harbor on the Passing of Robert Brewer2025-05-07T12:21:49-04:00

TWO STONE HARBOR PLAYGROUNDS TO RE-OPEN WITH NEW EQUIPMENT, ALL-INCLUSIVE DESIGN AND ACCESSIBILITY

TWO STONE HARBOR PLAYGROUNDS TO RE-OPEN WITH NEW EQUIPMENT, ALL-INCLUSIVE DESIGN AND ACCESSIBILITY

County and State Grants Support Construction

STONE HARBOR, N.J.—(May 5, 2025)—Construction projects at two Stone Harbor playgrounds that were unavailable last year will soon restore both for public use, with one set for reopening before the summer season.  Reconstruction of the other playground will likely begin after the summer season with completion expected before year-end.

Both projects are largely funded by a $1.2 million grant from Cape May County and a $750,000 grant announced last month by the State Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres program, respectively.

At the borough’s 96th Street playground, new slides, benches and other equipment have been installed, a basketball court has been expanded to regulation size and bocce courts improved.  While a temporary surface allows safe access, a new, permanent surface will be installed in the coming week. A new recreation building with restrooms is also planned for the site with construction to begin later this year.

The borough’s new “Jake’s Place” playground is planned for the 82nd Street recreation complex. All-inclusive Jake’s Place playgrounds are designed to accommodate people of all ages, from toddlers to grandparents, and all abilities, including people with physical handicaps or disabilities.

The Jake’s Place playground concept is named for a Camden County toddler who suffered from a rare cardiac medical condition which limited his accessibility to many typical playground components.  Jake’s Place playgrounds have since been built in Cherry Hill and Delran.

Both the 96th Street and 82nds Street playgrounds were closed last year due to deteriorated equipment and related safety concerns.

Stone Harbor Mayor Tim Carney predicted heavy use of both refurbished playgrounds. “Residents and visitors alike value Stone Harbor’s recreation opportunities including those beyond our pristine beaches.  These playground improvements will help to meet the recreation needs of families and people of all ages and physical abilities.”  He acknowledged County and State financial support, and thanked the borough council for their commitment to the borough’s recreation facilities.

Borough Council Member Victor Foschini, chair of the council’s Recreation and Tourism committee, welcomed both playgrounds’ prospective re-opening. “Restoring these recreation facilities has been a top priority for our committee and it benefits the entire borough and all of our visitors,” he explained.

“Our 96th Street playground will be ready in time for the summer season, with the 82nd Street park soon to follow with its pioneering, all-inclusive design. Both facilities will make our recreation program more complete and more inviting.”

Borough engineering firm DiBlasio & Associates is coordinating design and construction work for both locations.

Children play on playground designed to be inclusive. Swings and Jungle Gyms are Enjoyed, text reads: Grant Funking Secured for your new playground at 82nd Street.
TWO STONE HARBOR PLAYGROUNDS TO RE-OPEN WITH NEW EQUIPMENT, ALL-INCLUSIVE DESIGN AND ACCESSIBILITY2025-05-06T14:53:42-04:00

PROPOSED STONE HARBOR MUNICIPAL BUDGET PROJECTS EFFICIENCIES FROM SHARED SERVICES, UTILITY MANAGEMENT, CAPITAL ALLOCATION

PROPOSED STONE HARBOR MUNICIPAL BUDGET PROJECTS EFFICIENCIES FROM SHARED SERVICES, UTILITY MANAGEMENT, CAPITAL ALLOCATION

Spending plan would ensure compliance with state budget cap guidelines

STONE HARBOR, NEW JERSEY — (April 4, 2025) — Projected efficiencies from a shared services arrangement for construction inspections, a realignment of utility administrative costs, shared services for Uniform Construction Code Services and a re-allocation of capital expenditures will allow Stone Harbor to enact a municipal budget within state cap limits.

The shared services initiative with nearby Wildwood Crest would consolidate inspections performed under the Uniform Construction Code and ensure qualified inspection services after retirements and staffing changes among Stone Harbor’s construction code officials.

The proposed budget would also re-allocate administrative expenses more accurately for liability insurance, workers’ compensation and pension contributions in the Water and Sewer Utility budget. And, consistent with state guidelines, expenditures related to stormwater management and water pollution control programs can also be treated as outside-the-cap items.

“First and foremost, our focus on the 2025 Municipal Budget has made significant headway, particularly in addressing the appropriation cap issue that has been a concern,” explained Council President Jennifer Gensemer, who also chairs the Administration & Finance Committee. Gensemer commended the committee’s work, and the borough CFO and acting administrator

Cynthia Lindsay who conducted “an in-depth, thorough, line-by-line review” of the water and sewer utility budget.

Gensemer noted the borough is also focused on capital improvement planning. “A comprehensive review of departmental needs is underway, focusing on infrastructure investments that enhance the quality of life for our residents and visitors alike,” she said. This review includes:

The construction of new playgrounds and improvements to recreation areas;

Upgrades to tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts;

Improvements to municipal buildings and the firehouse; and

Acquisition of essential equipment for Public Works.

The formal budget will be introduced at council’s April 15 meeting, followed by public hearings and final adoption planned for the May 20 council session.

At the April 1 meeting, Council also approved contracts with borough engineer DeBlasio and Associates for phase 2 of the 96th Street Recreation Complex, and Trinity Code Inspections for plumbing and electrical sub-code inspection services.

PROPOSED STONE HARBOR MUNICIPAL BUDGET PROJECTS EFFICIENCIES FROM SHARED SERVICES, UTILITY MANAGEMENT, CAPITAL ALLOCATION2025-04-23T11:18:23-04:00

Stone Harbor Appoints New Police Chief

STONE HARBOR APPOINTS NEW POLICE CHIEF

21-YEAR POLICE VETERAN PROMOTED TO PUBLIC SAFETY LEADERSHIP POST

STONE HARBOR, N.J.  (March 4, 2025)  A 21-year decorated police captain who rose through the ranks of the Borough of Stone Harbor has been promoted to Chief of the borough’s police force.

Capt. Christopher Palmer’s promotion was approved today by the Borough Council, effective March 3, 2025. He was sworn in by Mayor Tim Carney, with his wife and children nearby in attendance. His promotion highlights a lifetime of public safety experience, punctuated with numerous awards and honors for exemplary service.

Appointed captain in 2017, Palmer has received ribbons for Merit, Bravery, and Lifesaving, and has been awarded a Chief’s Commendation. Within the Stone Harbor Police Department, he has worked his way from Police Recruit to Patrol Sergeant to Captain. He is a former member of the of the Cape May County Regional SWAT Team and Class President of his Cape May County Police Academy graduating class. He continues to instruct both Firearms and Water Rescue at the Cape May County Police Academy.

Palmer joined the Stone Harbor police force as a full-time recruit in 2003 after serving as a special officer in adjacent Avalon Borough where he earned academic achievement and merit awards.

Appointed sergeant in 2009, Palmer was assigned to both the Patrol and Detective Divisions. He has received specialized training in many areas of police work including Methods of Instruction, Field Training, Criminal Investigation, Firearms, Physical Fitness, Impaired Driving, Leadership, Juvenile Delinquency, School Safety, Special Weapons and Tactics, Water Safety, and Police Supervision.

A native of Spring Lake, N.J., where he served as a lifeguard, Palmer earned a B.A. from Elizabethtown College and a Master’s degree from Seton Hall University. He lives in Dennis Township with his wife and three children.

Stone Harbor Mayor Tim Carney commended Palmer on his promotion, career service and accomplishments. “The role of police chief is one that demands strength, resilience, and, above all, a commitment to doing what is right. Chief Palmer has consistently demonstrated these qualities.

Whether through his leadership in community outreach programs, his dedication to reducing crime, or his focus on building trust between law enforcement and the people he serves, Chief Palmer has set a standard for what it means to be a true public servant.”

He continued, “The residents and visitors of Stone Harbor are indeed fortunate to have the caliber, dedication and professionalism displayed by Chief Palmer. His qualifications, record of service, leadership and familiarity with the Borough will serve our community well, for many years to come.”

Chief Palmer thanked Mayor Carney and Council members for their confidence in his leadership. “I am humbled by this honor and will work every day to help ensure the safety of our residents, businesses and visitors. Stone Harbor has been my professional home for more than two decades, and I look forward to continued service in this very special place.”

Palmer succeeds Thomas J. Schutta as Police Chief, who served Stone Harbor for 30 years.

Stone Harbor Appoints New Police Chief2025-04-23T14:31:10-04:00
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