Sex offender ordinance advances

Tuesday, September 27, 2005By THOMAS J. WALSHCourier-Post StaffCHERRY HILL
Township council on Monday night gave preliminary approval to an ordinance that would prohibit convicted sex offenders from living in certain areas of the municipality.
The ordinance would ban sex offenders from living 2,500 feet -- or about a half-mile -- from areas where children "regularly meet and congregate."
That distinction would include public and private schools, parks, playgrounds, public libraries and day-care centers.
"I think it's a trend throughout the state," Councilwoman Shelley Adler said. "This is the next step."
Four towns in the tri-county area -- Hainesport, Palmyra, Shamong and Winslow -- have adopted similar measures.
At least six others, including Medford, Maple Shade and Pitman, are considering doing the same.
Cherry Hill's ordinance -- which would not apply to convicted sex offenders who already have established residency in the township -- would amend an existing ordinance that is in accordance with "Megan's Law," which requires sex offenders who live in the township to register with the Cherry Hill Police Department.
Council voted 5-0 Monday night to pass the ordinance on first reading.
Councilman John Amato and Councilwoman Marlyn Kalitan did not attend Monday's meeting.
Council must approve the measure again at the Oct. 11 meeting.
A public hearing will precede council's final vote that night.
Anyone who violates the ordinance as currently written would face a fine up to $1,250, jail time and community service.
Reach Thomas J. Walsh at (856) 486-2931 or twalsh@courierpost online.com.