In June 2025, I attended the Englishtown, NJ Council Meeting where council members discussed and successfully created a resolution to reimburse their residents the $150 municipal fee for concealed carry permit applications. This decision was met with much appreciation from the community, as it alleviated a financial burden from responsible citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights.

Inspired by Englishtown’s decision, I reached out to the South Toms River Council Members on June 14, 2025, hoping for a similar resolution for our residents. Despite appearing before them at the June 23, 2025 meeting to formally request this resolution, the matter remains unaddressed.

Many responsible gun owners in South Toms River have paid this fee in good faith, expecting that their rights would be recognized and supported by their local government. Yet, the council has shown reluctance to follow Englishtown’s positive example. Reimbursing the fee would not only resonate with South Toms River citizens who committed to following legal protocols, but it would also align with the precedent set by neighboring towns.

Council Members have asked me to reappeal, which highlights a lack of urgency and engagement on this crucial issue. Each day without action reflects a lack of support for law-abiding community members.

By adopting a resolution to reimburse the $150 municipal fee for all who have applied for a concealed carry permit, South Toms River can stand up for its residents, showing that they value the rights and contributions of their constituents.

Join me in urging council members to adopt this resolution. Please sign this petition to remind them of their duty to serve and support the people of South Toms River.

https://www.njfos.org/policy-brief-on-resolution-eliminating-municipal-fees-for-concealedcarry-permits/

Other towns that have followed Englishtown: 

Dumont

Franklin Twp.

Hoptacong

Vernon

Butler

Readington

Cresskill

Medford Lakes

Beachwood

Hardyston

Howell (11/26/25)

Toms River (12/10/25)