3TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A decision by Ocean County officials to host a pop-up café operated by Jon Bon Jovi’s JBJ Soul Kitchen inside the Ocean County Library has ignited controversy and raised serious concerns over public safety, crime, and the library’s changing role in downtown Toms River.

Initially launched in February, the café was intended to address hunger and offer community resources. But according to Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick, its presence has turned the library into what he described as “a de facto homeless shelter and soup kitchen,” drawing individuals from outside the township, including those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Mayor Rodrick has sharply criticized the Ocean County Board of Commissioners for renewing the Soul Kitchen lease through May, war

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