increase. This year is tough due to rising costs, but we’re always mindful of our residents, especially those on fixed incomes.” Grant funding plays a key role in Medford’s success. “Beth is retiring soon,” Mayor Watson shares. “But she secured over $18 million in grants during her time here.Those grants help us with everything from lighting to recreational fields.” The progress is gratifying for Portocalis, who spent 28 years working for the township.“Medford becomes a town that people want to visit, but more importantly, a town that people want to stay in,” she says. “Our focus on smart growth, character preservation, and community pride sets us apart.” Mayor Watson concludes: “We’re at the end of the line geographically, but we’re at the forefront of what it means to be a strong, small town.And that’s exactly how we like it.” 182 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05
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