If you ever wondered how serious Gloucester Township is about recycling, here’s your answer. We’re so committed that we’re even recycling an old “feel-good” series—Ask the Mayor. As seen on February 20, 2025, two episodes were re-aired. Coincidentally, this happens to be the year the Mayor is up for re-election.
To be clear, this observation by the GT Observer is not intended to discredit any positive impact these programs may have. However, it is worth noting the timing of these broadcasts and their clear promotional undertones during an election year.
This series originally aired seven years ago, as evidenced by archived content on the township’s official YouTube channel as well as the content of each video. If you pay attention, the target audience becomes clear—seniors, veterans, and sports organizations. Additionally, a staged interaction at the February 10th council meeting raised further questions about orchestrated messaging. That moment can be seen [CLICKING HERE].
Campaigning with Your Tax Dollars?
Residents should remain aware of how public funds are used—especially when it comes to media and advertising. Every four years, Gloucester Township suddenly launches a recycling awareness campaign. And this year, another commercial has surfaced, prompting residents to ask: Why are we paying for TV commercials?
The answer is simple: while promoting good causes is important, the timing suggests a secondary purpose—election-year visibility. How many other towns do you see running commercials prominently featuring their mayor?
Stay Informed
Political messaging is often subtle. It won’t always be in the form of some kid knocking on your door asking about selling your sewer. However, once you recognize the pattern, it becomes easy to spot. Keep your eyes open, stay informed, and question how your tax dollars are being used.
If you would like to stay informed, I highly suggest subscribing to the GT Observer Podcast. Click the image below to go to the Youtube Channel and make sure to turn on your notifications by hitting the bell. Be sure to share out our information with your neighbors.
You believe the township paid for these messages? Why would they continue if they only got 50 some views? With those few views it seems like a waste of tax dollars.
The videos did not film themselves. Historically a company called Blue Wire Media has charged, what I would call, ridiculous amounts to film these. They are not filmed and edited by township employees. Blue Wire charges over and above their (again in my opinion) ridiculous regular contract amount for IT Services. They then pay to run these on TV as well as on their YouTube channel where they are archived.