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Animal Control

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1. Am I required to license my dog or cat?

Under both township ordinance and New Jersey state law all dogs, 7 months old or older, must be licensed. In order to obtain a license an animal must have a current vaccination against rabies. In East Brunswick, cats, including outdoor cats that you provide any care for, must also be vaccinated against rabies and licensed. Further information about licensing can be obtained by calling the Revenue office at 732-390-6828.

2. What is the law regarding tethering of my dog?

"Tether" means to fasten a dog with an object such as a cable, chain, rope, or other similar object to a stationary object or to a device that is mobile, including, but not limited to, a trolley or pulley, in order to restrict the dog's movement. "Tether" also means the cable, chain, rope, or other similar object used to fasten a dog, as applicable. View more information regarding the New Jersey Tethering Law (PDF).

3. What can I do about my neighbor’s dog that barks all the time?

An owner is responsible to keep his pet reasonably quiet, dogs are known to bark but may not be permitted to bark for an excessive period of time. As per Township noise ordinance:

It shall be unlawful for any property owner or tenant to allow any domesticated or caged animal to create a sound across a real property line which unreasonably disturbs or interferes with the peace, comfort, and repose of any resident, or to refuse or intentionally fail to cease the unreasonable noise when ordered to do so by a Noise Control Officer or Noise Control Investigator. Prima facie evidence of a violation of this section shall include but not be limited to:

• Vocalizing (howling, yelping, barking, squawking, etc.) for five minutes without interruption, defined as an average of four or more vocalizations per minute in that period
• Vocalizing for 20 minutes intermittently, defined as an average of two vocalizations or more per minute in that period

It is an affirmative defense under this subsection that the dog or other animal was intentionally provoked to bark or make any other noise.

4. My neighbor lets their dog run loose in the neighborhood. What can I do?

Any dog off of the owner’s property must be on a leash no longer than 8-foot long and the owner must clean up after his dog by removing any feces left by the pet.  No dogs are allowed off leash in any Township park or on any public lands.

If you are having a problem with a neighbor and their pet, please call animal control at 732-390-6960 and a letter can be sent to your neighbor explaining the local laws regarding pet ownership.  Often a letter is all that is needed to inform residents of existing laws and to compel compliance. 

5. I constantly see wildlife in my backyard. Are these animals dangerous and what can I do about them?

East Brunswick has a rich diversity of wildlife living within our borders, everything from chipmunks and snakes to deer, coyote and even bear have been found at one time or another in our town. These animals are generally no threat to humans, however they are wild animals, and as such should be considered unpredictable and treated with respect.

Animal Control Response

We will respond to calls involving endangered or rare species as well as sick or injured wildlife creating a definite public health threat. We do not, however, trap and relocate nuisance wildlife. New Jersey Fish and Game laws require a specific set of circumstances before wildlife can be disturbed. Also, due to the current rabies epidemic, state wildlife regulations prohibit the release of wildlife anywhere other than the location where it was trapped. This area has reached the saturation point for those types of wildlife usually involved in nuisance complaints. Those animals already established drive off animals released into an already overpopulated area. 

Newly introduced animals generally die from exposure or are struck by motor vehicles as they move from one area to the next looking for a home. It is for these reasons, that unless they are living in your fireplace, attic or are doing extensive damage to your property, wildlife should be left alone. A local exterminator or wildlife pest control operator can remove problem wildlife. Check with the company that provides your home’s pest control services or look in the phone book under Pest Control.

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Assessed Value

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1. What is assessed value?

The Assessor assigns a value to each property for tax purposes based upon its market value. Market value is defined as the highest price a property can be sold for on the open market as of October 1 of the pretax year.

2. How is my assessed value determined?

Your market value or assessed value is determined:

• The cost to reproduce the structure new, minus depreciation (any loss in value due to economic conditions, aging conditions, etc.), plus land value.
• The value of the property in comparison to similar properties that have sold.
• The value of the rental on income producing properties.

3. What other factors affect my assessment?

• Accessory buildings (sheds, cabanas, detached garages)
• Age of Structure
• Basement area (finished or unfinished)/Age
• Condition
• Decks
• In-ground pool
• Living Area of structure/Number of baths/Type of heat
• Location
• Size of the lot

4. What home improvements or property improvements will raise my assessment?

Any improvement or addition to your home or property could raise its assessed value. If you are considering an improvement or addition, you should contact the Tax Assessor's to determine whether it will affect your assessment. Cosmetic improvements such as painting will not affect your assessment.

5. What if I don't agree with my assessment?

You must file an appeal by April first with the Middlesex County Board of Taxation. To file an appeal, all taxes must be paid in full up to and including the first quarter of the current tax year.

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Construction Inspection

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1. What are permits and why do I need one?

Permits are used to regulate construction. The process is designed to ensure that all construction within the Township is safe. The safety of building occupants is the primary reason for construction codes. Construction codes in effect in New Jersey can be found in the following link:  NJ State Codes and Regulations

There are several types of permits, depending on the type of construction- structural, plumbing, mechanical or combination. Most homeowner projects require a "combination permit." In addition, permits are required for the demolition and relocation of buildings.

2. When do I need a construction permit?

A construction permit is needed for all new construction. Permits are also usually needed for the repair or replacement of existing fixtures such as windows. A plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit is needed for any change to a buildings system. For example, moving or adding an electrical outlet requires a permit. Feel free to call out office to find out if your specific project needs a permit.

3. Are permits needed for all home improvements?

A permit is not needed for wall papering, painting or similar finishing work. Replacement or repair of plumbing, mechanical or electrical fixtures (i.e., Changing faucets or replacing switches) does not normally require a permit.

4. Where do I get a permit?

Construction permits are issued by the Construction Inspection Division in the lower level of the Municipal Building. 

5. What steps are involved in the process?

Obtaining the permit is the first step. To begin the permit process you need to submit plans depicting the proposed improvements, submit a copy of the property survey with the improvements drawn on it and indicate the construction type to be used.

Plans

Don't be discouraged if this sounds complicated. Handouts are available to help you with each type of permit. You should be aware that once the plans are approved by the Construction Office you are required to build to match those plans. If changes occur during construction they must be made with the Construction Office's written approval.

Inspection

The second step is the inspection of the work. The property owner is responsible for ensuring that inspections occur at specific times during construction. You may have the contractor call to schedule the inspections but please make sure that your contractor follows through.

6. How long does it take to get a permit?

Permit issuance periods vary depending on the project’s complexity.

7. What is the cost of a permit?

Complete permit cost breakdowns are available from the Construction Inspection Division. Cost examples are as follows:

• New Home or additions are $0.04 per cubic foot
• Alterations are $25 per $1,000 construction
• Sheds range from $50 depending on size
• Fences are $50

A copy of the contractor's contract is required to determine fees as per state requirements.

8. What happens if I don’t get a permit?

If a permit is not obtained when needed prior to construction you have violated Township and State regulations and are subject to fines and penalties. In addition, you will be required to obtain permits for the work and the work must pass inspection or be corrected. Otherwise, the site will have to be returned to its original condition.

Remember: Construction codes were created for safety reasons. Work built without a permit can be unsafe, no matter how good it looks to the untrained eye.

9. What if I get a permit but don’t call for inspections?

Generally permits expire 180 days if no inspections have been made. For a project to be complete it must pass final inspection. If a permit expires before final inspection the project is in violation of Township regulations. If this happens we will help you reactivate the permit or apply for a new permit with as little inconvenience as possible. Our interest is in seeing your project complete- including the final inspection.

10. Can I do the work myself or do I have to hire a contractor?

You can do the work yourself but you must follow certain regulations. It is important that you build according to the approved plans. If the plans are revised during construction, it will cause problems when the project is inspected. Please obtain the written approval of the Construction Inspection Staff before making the changes.

11. Who prepares the required plans?

A New Jersey Licensed Architect is recommended for the preparation of plans for major projects. Major projects may need to include floor plans drawn to scale, sections, elevations and details. Structural elements such a girders and columns are required to be drawn by a New Jersey Licensed Architect. Minor projects such as decks and small additions can be drawn by a homeowner.

Requirements

The Construction Inspection Office has standard specifications that can be followed within certain limitations for routine projects such as decks and retaining walls. These specs along with a plot plan/survey depicting your project are accepted as the required plans.

Preparing Plans

There are some projects which require a New Jersey Licensed Engineer to prepare plans. Examples are an in-ground pool, grading plans and retaining walls no more than four feet in height.

12. What about inspections?

Inspections are made during certain points in the project depending on the type of work begin performed. For example an addition will require inspections prior to the installation of footings or foundations, as well as inspections of the addition's framing, electrical, plumbing and fire fixtures.

Remember: The project is not complete for legal purposes until it has passed the final inspection.

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Electrical Safety

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1. What is the trend in deaths and injuries associated with electrical appliances and residential electrical systems?

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the trend of deaths by electrocution from consumer products is downward from 480 in 1981 to 250 in 1991 (the most recent years for which data are available). This constitutes a reduction of 48%.

Electrical Fire Consequences

Estimated deaths from residential electrical fires run close to 700 annually and 6,790 injuries. In addition, CPSC estimates that several thousand injuries from electrical shocks and burns occur annually. Property damages due to electrical fires amount to over $1.2 billion each year. The consumer products involved in these deaths and injuries are the same kinds of electrical appliances and wiring systems common to households across the country.

2. What are the injuries, deaths, and fires associated with some of the items consumers are recommended to "check up" annually?

Each year, about 3,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with electric extension cords. In 1992, the most recent year for which statistics are available, it is estimated that electrical extension and other electrical cords and plugs were involved in about 9,900 residential fires resulting in 100 deaths, or about 31% of all deaths in electrical distribution fires. By comparison, lamps and light fixtures were involved in about 20 deaths and switches and outlets were involved in about 30 deaths.

3. How can consumers protect themselves from electricity-related injuries?

Consumers should check for problems in their homes' electrical systems. They should check outlets and extension cords to make sure they aren't overloaded. They should examine electrical cords to make sure that they aren't frayed or damaged or placed under rugs or carpets. They should make sure that the proper wattage light bulbs are being used in the light fixtures and lamps. They should consider installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). And one of the most important precautions consumers can take is to make sure the batteries in their smoke detectors are working properly.

Identifying Potential Hazards

Consumers can identify and correct many potential hazards themselves. They can check to see that lamps and extension cords aren't cracked, frayed or covered by rugs or furniture. The wattage of light bulbs should be checked to determine that the wattage is appropriate for the lighting fixtures. And consumers can check to see that electrical appliances are kept away from damp and hot surfaces and have appropriate air circulation.

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Municipal Court

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1. Will I get points for my tickets?

The Division of Motor Vehicles assesses points on some motor vehicle offenses (usually moving violations). For further information call 609-292-7500.

2. How do points affect my insurance?

Only your insurance company can answer that question.

3. Can I pay for my ticket without coming to court?

If the violation is listed on the violations bureau schedule as payable, and the officer has not checked "court appearance required" and there has not been an accident, the ticket may be paid through the mail or at the Violations Bureau window.

4. What do I do if there is a warrant out for my arrest?

During regular business hours, bail may be posted at the violations bureau. After hours, bail may be posted with any police department in the State of New Jersey. Once bail is posted, you will receive a court date.

5. Do I need an attorney?

Every person has the right to make his own defense without an attorney, but if you are in doubt as to how to proceed, it is recommended that you consult an attorney.

6. Can the Municipal Court recommend an attorney?

No. Court staff is not permitted to recommend an attorney or give you advice. You may call the Middlesex County Lawyer Referral Service at 732-828-0053.

7. What if I can't afford an attorney?

The Judge will review your finances and if you qualify, will assign the Public Defender to represent you. There is an application fee of not more than $200 for this service.

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Recreation, Parks & Community Services - Summer Day Camp

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1. What is the Day Camp Site Directors' background?

Each site is directed by a New Jersey State Certified Teacher. The directors possess a bachelor's degree in education, have completed in-service training, have camp administrative experience, and experience in organizing programs for children. They are also certified in First Aid and CPR.

2. What are the ages of the counselors?

Camp counselors must be at least 16 years old.

3. What training do counselors receive?

Camp staff is trained in:

• Appropriate staff and camper behavior
• Behavior management techniques
• Child abuse prevention
• Emergency procedures and communication
• Safety regulations
• Specific procedures for supervision

4. Is the camp committed to best practices in the camp industry?

The Department of Recreation Summer Day Camp program is American Camp Association (ACA) accredited which means that your child's camp cares enough to undergo a thorough (up to 300 standards) review of its operation - from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association collaborates with experts from The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth service agencies to assure that current practices at your child's camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. 

Camps and ACA form a partnership that complies with industry established health and safety standards recognized by courts of law and government regulations.

5. Where are the summer camps held?

The various full day sites will be held in our public schools (NOTE: Schools are subject to change)

 At each school, campers will be able to spread out to different activity areas:
* Cafeteria/Multi-purpose Room
* Classrooms/Game Rooms
* Playground/Athletic Fields
* Gym
* Art Room

6. What activities will campers participate in?

Camp groups will rotate between different activity areas when at the school.  To allow for proper disinfecting and hand washing/sanitizing between activity periods, period length will vary

On site camp activities may include, but is not limited to:
*   Field Sports
*   GAGA
*   9 Square
*   Arts & Crafts
*  Table Games
*  Playground Time
*  Gym Activities
*  Theme Days

All campers and staff will wash/sanitize hands when they arrive and depart each activity.  Cleaning and disinfecting will be completed on all supplies and equipment before each use.   All activities will limit contact as much as possible.

7. What time should my child arrive at camp?

Campers should be brought to the camp site at the designated start time.

With all camps starting at 9:00 am, drop off will start at 8:50 am to allow parents who have children at multiple sites enough time to drop off at multiple locations. 

8. Does my child have to wear a mask at camp?

Campers and staff will follow NJ Department of Health Guidelines for wearing masks at camps. Registered families will be notified of the policies once this information becomes available for 2023.

9. May I send my child to camp with a cell phone?

No. We understand your desire to make sure your child is having fun and being well taken care of, however, cell phones and any other communication devices are prohibited at camp. In emergencies, campers can be reached by parents/guardians utilizing the site phone and/or Site Director's camp cell phone. Campers may use these same phones if parent/guardian must be contacted. 

Disregard of this rule will result in confiscation of the device - to be returned at the end of the day.

10. Are campers grouped by age, activity, or both?

Campers are usually grouped by the grade they are entering in September (either mixed or separated genders). Groups will have 7 campers with 1 counselor.  Groups in grades 1-2 may also have a CIT. Groups will NOT change during the course of a camp session.

11. What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?

Counselor-to-camper ratio is typically 1:7.

12. My child can't swim and you have a trip scheduled to Crystal Springs Waterpark. What are participation expectations?

Crystal Springs activities are based on physical size, not age or ability. Participation will be determined according to the guidelines established by park attendants. Camp does not provide swimming lessons. 

Crystal Springs does not allow you to bring in your own personal flotation devices. However, coast guard approved flotation devices will be provided for all campers in first and second grade. Campers in grades 3 and up can use a flotation device available at Crystal Springs. 

If you need additional information about Crystal Springs, visit the Crystal Springs Family Waterpark page. 

13. What should my child bring in their backpack?

Your child should have the following in their backpack:

• Morning snack
• Lunch
• Afternoon snack
• Sunscreen (spray and roll-on ONLY! No lotion)
• Labeled Water Bottle
• Towel
• Extra Camp Shirt
• Extra Mask

No food will be provided by camp.

Crystal Springs Days
In addition to the above, on days at Crystal Springs, water shoes should be brought in their backpacks. Campers will come to camp wearing their bathing suit.

14. Are changes being made to ensure the health of my child?

• All campers and staff members will be taught how to wash/sanitize according to CDC recommendations. These will be reinforced throughout the day verbally and with signage
• Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting around the camp site
• Campers and staff MUST stay home when feeling sick
• All full day camps will have a nurse on site

15. Will camper's health be monitored?

• Staff and parents should perform daily at home health screenings and temperature checks
• Health monitoring throughout the day 

16. Can my child take Benadryl / Tylenol / medication at camp?

Permission to administer Epinephrine and Inhalers must be part of the camper’s record.  All medication must be in the original container clearly marked with the child’s name and pharmacy label with doctor’s instructions. Epi-Pen or Inhaler forms must be accompanied with directions and permission to administer by staff in an emergency.  This form will be completed on an as needed basis.  Please contact the Day Camp Office with any other medication questions or concerns.

17. Does my child have to wear a camp shirt everyday?

Yes. Camper shirts will be distributed on the first day of camp. 

Full day campers will receive 4 camp shirts. Additional shirts may be purchased for $5 each. 

In an effort to provide the safest environment for our campers and staff, all campers will be required to wear a camp shirt on days at Crystal Springs.

18. How will my child be protected from the sun?

Sunscreen must be applied at home prior to outdoor activities. Staff may not apply sunscreen to a child; staff can only direct a camper how to apply. Sunscreen should be brought to camp and applied frequently throughout the day. Sunscreen should be spray or roll-on variety ONLY, no lotion.

Encourage your kids to drink frequently to avoid overheating and/or dehydration. They need to drink lots of fluid! Campers are encouraged to bring a labeled water bottle that can be refilled at the site.

19. Will the camp provide lunch / snack for full day programs?

No. Snacks (one morning and one for the afternoon) and lunches must be supplied from home. Please use insulated/thermal bags or lunch boxes (paper bags tend to disintegrate). There is no refrigeration on site.

20. Are parent visits encouraged?

East Brunswick Day Camp will be closed to all non-essential visitors; including parents..

21. Can my child bring electronics to camp?

Neither the Department of Recreation nor the site staff can be responsible for campers' personal property or any money brought to the camp site. Please ensure that your child does not bring an iPod, video games, toys, or any like items to camp. If a child comes to camp with personal property it will be confiscated by the Site Director and returned to the parent at the end of the day.

22. Can I request that my child be placed in a group with his or her friend?

Camp is a wonderful place to make new friends! Parents may request placement of camper in group with one friend - the request must be mutual.

Campers must be in the same grade. The request has to be in writing before camp starts. No arrangements will be made after June 9. 

The Site Director has the final decision in group placements.

23. Is transportation available?

No - transportation is not available.

24. What about extended care before and after camp?

Special arrangements must be made in advance for extended care for each camp session. Extended care is child care only (no programming). Extended Care is available before and after camp. 

Your child cannot arrive any earlier than 7:30 am if registered for morning care. Arrangements must be made with the Department of Recreation via email daycamp@eastbrunswick.org or you may register directly online. 

There is a 15 minute “grace period” from the time camp ends to the time PM Extended Care begins.  After the “grace period”, a late pickup penalty of $10 per 15 minutes will be assessed; payable in cash or check before the start of the next camp day. With all camps ending at 4pm, we understand that parents who have children at multiple sites may have a difficulty getting to both locations by 4:15pm.  As such, staff will have a list of these families and will know not to charge their pickup person a late pick up penalty if they are a few minutes late due to pick up at multiple locations. However if it becomes a habitual lateness throughout the summer, a late fee may be charged. If no contact can be made for person(s) responsible for pickup of camper, the camper will be transported in a township vehicle to the Recreation and Parks Office. 

Should you feel the need to sign up for PM Extended Care at any point during the camp season, please contact the Recreation Office via email daycamp@eastbrunswick.org so we can get your child registered.

25. How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled?

Positive reinforcement, assertive role-modeling and a sense of fair play are generally regarded as key components of camp counseling and leadership. Rules are necessary in any organization, and the disciplinary approach taken is reasonable and well communicated. If penalties are involved for violations, they will be applied quickly, fairly, calmly, and without undue criticism to campers.

At the beginning of the camp season, the campers, together with the staff, will develop and write their own set of rules that will help them create a positive environment. As a result, the campers will know what is expected of them and will understand what is appropriate behavior for them and for others.

Disciplinary Actions
Campers who choose not to accept these responsibilities are subject to disciplinary action which may include: 

• Verbal reprimand
• Written warning
• Time-out from activity
• Exemption from activity
• Conference between camper and Site Director
• Conference between Recreation Supervisor, Site Director and parent
• Expulsion from Day Camp

Disciplinary action will vary according to the frequency, severity, and nature of the incident.

 

26. What happens if a camper or staff member develops COVID-19 like symptoms while at camp?

If a camper or staff member has COVID-19 symptoms, they will be escorted to a quarantine area and a parent/caregiver must pick up as soon as possible. They may return to camp ONLY with the clearance from their doctor in accordance with Department of Health guidelines.

27. What happens if there is a COVID-19 diagnosis at camp?

East Brunswick Day Camp will maintain confidentiality of the individual at all times while mitigating the situation. We will notify the proper health authorities, families and staff who came in close contact with that person. These people may be required to quarantine for 5 days, or if up-to-date on vaccination and exhibiting now symptoms, stay in camp.

28. What happens if there is a COVID-19 diagnosis at home?

It is required for you to notify the Day Camp office if any member of your household or someone your family has come in close contact with tests positive for COVID-19.

Those campers or staff members may be asked to remain home for 5 days after exposure. COVID-19 symptoms, according to the State Department of Health include: 

• Fever or Chills
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath
• Difficulty Breathing
• Muscle or Body Aches
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Loss of Taste or Smell
• Sore Throat
• Congestion/Runny Nose
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Diarrhea

29. What happens if my child misses days of camp?

If a camper misses days due to being quarantined for potential exposure to a COVID-19 infected individual from the camp, they will receive a prorated refund.

30. Can my child go on vacation during camp?

Yes, but no refund will be given to days missed due to a vacation. Children returning from vacation that are not up-to-date on vaccination should have a negative COVID test before attending camp.

31. How does a camp handle an illness?

If your child is not feeling well before camp, please do not send them to camp. Sick campers will be sent home from camp.

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Recreation, Parks & Community Services - Youth Council

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1. Who are Youth Council members?

Youth Council members are 9-12 grade residents of East Brunswick, NJ.

2. How often do youth attend the programs?

As little or as much as you want. Youth Council has no mandatory requirement, but if you would like your community service listed on your transcript, you must complete at least 15 hours per school year.

3. How long do programs last?

Youth Council runs from September until June every year. A reduced number of events are available during the summer. All the activities take place after school and on weekends. New members are always welcome!

4. What activities does Youth Council offer?

Youth Council offers exciting and stimulating opportunities for teens, including: Community Service, Environmental Activities, Fundraising, Alcohol and Drug Prevention Education, Social and Recreation Events, Educational Programs, and Trainings.

5. What type of supervision do you provide?

We have a staff of chaperones and a Youth Executive Board that provide supervision at every event.

6. Is membership required?

Yes, membership is required to participate in Youth Council activities. There is a $30 yearly membership dues fee.

7. Why should you be involved?

• Youth Council members acquire valuable experience that will assist them as they transition into adulthood and their college careers.
• Youth Council allows participants to positively impact the community in which they live.
• It's a youth run civic organization that allows you the opportunity to voice your opinions and ideas.
• You can meet new people and experience new things.
• There are opportunities to attend numerous trips and social events with your peers.
• Youth Council is a President's Volunteer Service Award certified organization.
• Youth Council is already pre-approved by your school for community service hours.
• It’s fun!

8. How can you apply?

If you are interested in becoming a Youth Council member, you can register through Volunteer Matrix. If you are having any trouble please email ebyouthcouncil@eastbrunswick.org.

9. Have questions about the Volunteer Matrix?

If you have any trouble registering as a volunteer on Volunteer Matrix, please use these documents:

• 2022-2023 Youth Council Member Information
• Youth Council Parents/Guardians FAQ
• EBYC Volunteer Matrix Guide