JERRY WOLKOWITZ Millstone Deputy Mayor Cory Wingerter explains how the Township Committee operates Monday to Millstone Middle School eighth-graders.
MILLSTONE — For those who observe town hall meetings — in any town — there is sometimes the temptation to describe the participants as "acting like children."
Monday, in Chris Meier’s eighth-grade social studies classes at Millstone Middle School, the children had the chance to behave like adults when Millstone Deputy Mayor Cory Wingerter spent the entire school day guiding each class through a mock session of a committee meeting.
In each class the students assumed the roles of mayor, deputy mayor, engineer, attorney and committeemen, and the remainder of the class became the "concerned residents" at the meetings.
"Mayor" Joe Pesciotta and "Deputy Mayor" Mark Teel presided over the third-period class meeting and were briefly instructed by Wingerter how to open the meeting and conduct the various segments, including the public comment portion.
JERRY WOLKOWITZ At a mock Township Committee meeting Monday, eighth-grader Joe Lormel portrays a homeowner concerned about a proposed skate park.
The premise was a hearing about an ordinance to establish a dirt bike trail in the township, and the student/residents were encouraged to take opposing viewpoints to reflect the kind of discussion that might ensue in reality.
Some "residents" spoke in favor of the plan, citing the need for a legal outlet for riders to enjoy their sport without getting in trouble. Others took a different viewpoint, mentioning safety factors and questioning how the trails would be monitored. Another "resident" objected to the fact that the trail would be close to his property and the noise would be bothersome.
After public discussion, Wingerter advised the group on how to conduct a committee discussion, followed by a roll call vote on the ordinance. It was passed with just one dissenting vote.
Afterward, Wingerter took questions from the students regarding the activities that will be available at Wagner Farm Park (including an in-line skating rink) and the possibility of having skateboard ramps approved for the township (no plans yet, according to Wingerter).
Teacher Chris Meier, who has just concluded a study of local government in his classes, said he felt fortunate to have the opportunity to show each of his classes how township meetings are run and expressed appreciation to Wingerter for giving his time, for the third consecutive year, to help present the program.