The regular meeting of the East Amwell Township Committee was called to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Mayor C. Larry Tatsch, Deputy Mayor Kathleen Machnik, and Committee members Richard Spiegel, Linda Lenox, and Patricia Cregar. Township Administrator Timothy Matheny and Township Attorney Richard Cushing were also in attendance.
In compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act, Municipal Clerk Teresa R. Stahl announced that this is a regularly scheduled meeting, pursuant to the resolution adopted on January 1, 2007, and a meeting notice published in the Hunterdon County Democrat issue of January 4, 2007. A copy of the agenda for this meeting was forwarded to the Hunterdon County Democrat, Times of Trenton, Star Ledger, Courier News, posted on the bulletin board, and filed in the Clerk's Office on November 6, 2007.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
AGENDA REVIEW
Under Correspondence, add the November 8, 2007 NJ League of Municipalities Memo for Newly Elected Officials. (For the record, an executive session with the attorney to discuss litigation took place after Open to the Public at the end of the meeting.)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Hunterdon County Utilities will hold a Hazardous Waste Day on Saturday, November 10, 2007, from 9:00 - 1:00 p.m. at the County Complex. Call 908:788-1110 or email hcua@co.hunterdon.nj.us for details.
B. East Amwell Township will hold a tribute to veterans at the memorial stone located at the municipal building on Veteran's Day, Sunday, November 11, 2007, at 4 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.
C. The second Township Committee meeting in November will be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at 7:30 p.m.
D. Municipal Offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, November 22, and Friday, November 23, 2007.
Mr. Tatsch congratulated Patricia Cregar, Peter Kneski and Timothy Martin on the unofficial results of the November 6, 2007, election to the Township Committee. Mr. Kneski and Mr. Martin will be invited to the dais once the results have been certified.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
October 25, 2007, Special Minutes (Interviews) were approved on a motion by Mr. Spiegel, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously.
October 25, 2007, Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously with minor typing corrections.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
Andrea Bonette, 17 Ridge Road, attended a program at D & R Greenway Land Trust and picked up two plaques from the non-profit organization, one for East Amwell Township and one for Fred Dursch (which will be forwarded to him personally by Mrs. Stahl). The plaques were awarded in recognition of continued open space preservation in the Township, and the Township Committee members were appreciative of the awards.
Richard Carmen, 48 Dutch Lane, spoke about conditions at Dave's Sunoco in "downtown" Ringoes. In condensed form, the following was highlighted: Mr. Carmen originally complained to the former Zoning Officer about site conditions; the current Zoning Officer determined that the operation has always been a non-conforming existing use; Mr. Carmen met with Zoning Officer McManus on a Tuesday to discuss the conditions at Dave's Sunoco, including the gas station "and junkyard with dismantle cars," and Mr. McManus ended the discussion "and came across the desk" at Mr. Carmen, advising him to communicate further by letter; Mr. Carmen came back on Thursday with further questions about why nothing was being done in Ringoes, and Mr. McManus "flipped a business card" at him and verbally demeaned him; Mr. Carmen purchased the full Code of East Amwell Township, and he is able to determine some violations of the Ringoes operation.
Mr. Carmen continued by stating that he has a salvage yard (not in East Amwell), and he is licensed each year. There are DEP and Stormwater permits, motor vehicle license requirements (including tracking each and every vehicle title), and other requirements. Mr. Carmen spoke about the operation in Ringoes, asking if the pre-existing use included the towing service, parking vehicles on the sidewalk, behind the deli, and behind the firehouse, and he questioned the environmental concerns of brake fluid and oils leaking from vehicles being stored on site. He stated that "it is a cancer on main street," and it is growing. He noted the newspaper notice in this week's Hunterdon County Democrat showing an auction of 11 vehicles tomorrow.
Mr. Carmen commented on the clean up on Meszaros property, where it is not seen, and he spoke about devaluing property owners rights, i.e., he questioned whether anyone would want to buy a property near the operation. Mr. Carmen stated that he liked Dave, but he does not want to see him get away with violations. He stated that there is an expansion of use on the property, and he spoke about charging parking fee for cars under the zoning ordinance. He stated that Raritan Township charges $40 a day for a parking fee; and there are specific requirements of having fences around junkyards, which must be 50 feet from the highway. Mr. Carmen asked about the term pre-existing use.
Mr. Tatsch commented that pre-existing non-conforming use is a legal term. He stated that Mr. Carmen is bringing up a particular zoning issue, and his particular comments cannot be addressed without research. He said that the Township would look into the matter further. Mr. Tatsch also noted that he noticed on a recent site visit to the village that there have been some improvements made with fewer vehicles than in the past. Mr. Tatsch agreed that the Township would consider Mr. Carmen's comments, and when and where necessary, they would take appropriate action.
Mr. Carmen asked to meet with the Township Attorney and the Zoning Officer to further discuss the matter, i.e., Mr. Carmen does not want to sit across the table from the Zoning Officer alone. Mr. Carmen again commented on the pre-existing non-conforming status, the fact that the operation is "a cancer" which no-one wants to acknowledge, that "Dave is a good guy," but the Zoning Officer "has a bad attitude." Mr. Tatsch again stated that the matter would be investigated.
The governing body spoke about the possibility of having Zoning Officer McManus meet with them at the next meeting. Mr. Tatsch explained that he has asked Mr. Matheny to talk with the Zoning Officer and get a full understanding of the situation. He spoke about some improvements being made in the past year, and he agreed that compliance will be sought. Mr. Carmen made a further comment on wrecked vehicles on trucks, which could be blocking the firehouse. Mr. Tatsch concluded that the Township will look into the matter.
Motion by Mr. Spiegel, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
INTRODUCTION OF
ORDINANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS
Introduction of Ordinances
- NONE
Public Hearings:
ORDINANCE 07-15 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AND SUPPLEMENT THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 92-4(B) OF THE LAND MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE OF EAST AMWELL TOWNSHIP TO INCLUDE A DEFINITION FOR RUN-IN SHEDS AND TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE SETBACK FOR THIS TYPE OF ACCESSORY STRUCTURE
As proof of publication, the Clerk presented the October 18, 2007, legal notice from the Hunterdon County Democrat. The ordinance has been available to the public since introduction on October 11.
Motion by Mr. Spiegel, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and it was carried unanimously to open to the public for comment.
Mrs. Cregar asked for information on run-in sheds. Mr. Tatsch explained that these are three sided buildings, like pole barns, with no floors so horses can retreat into them during inclement weather conditions.
Motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to close to the public.
Motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to adopt Ordinance 07-15 by roll call vote: Mr. Spiegel, yes; Mrs. Cregar, yes; Ms. Lenox, yes; Ms. Machnik, yes; Mr. Tatsch, yes.
ORDINANCE 07-16: AN AMENDMENT TO THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL, CHAPTER 92, LAND MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE, TO AMEND SECTION 92-46 BUFFERS AND LANDSCAPING PLANS; SECTION 92-51 DRIVEWAYS, SECTION 92-61 OFF-TRACT IMPROVEMENTS; SECTION 92-63 OFF- STREET PARKING AND LOADING; 92-74 STREETS; 92-81 GOLFCOURSE/CLUB REGULATIONS; AND 92-91 AMWELL VALLEY AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT TO REVISE IN ACCORD WITH THE EAST AMWELL TOWNSHIP STORMWATER ORDINANCE AND NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION REGULATIONS
As proof of publication, the Clerk presented the October 18, 2007, legal notice from the Hunterdon County Democrat. The ordinance has been available to the public since introduction on October 11.
Mr. Tatsch explained that the ordinance brings existing ordinances in to compliance with the Stormwater Ordinance with wording changes.
Motion by Mr. Machnik, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to open to the public for comment.
Mike Fiscor, 157 Mountain Road, asked what would occur in terms of compliance when new regulations come out. Ms. Machnik commented on the work done by the ad hoc committee on stormwater management to address and modify existing ordinances. She stated that if necessary to make modifications, the ad committee, if still in existence, would review the stormwater ordinance and all other ordinances to look at impacts and changes. Mr. Fiscor asked if there were any changes expected on the horizon. Mr. Tatsch stated that there are no substantive changes being proposed from the state within the near future, and if there were, the municipality must address local ordinances for compliance. He commented on the need to move ahead with making regulations compliant, again commenting on not being aware of any changes in the future.
Andrea Bonette, in the audience, was asked to comment (i.e., serving as Chairperson of the ad hoc committee on stormwater management). She stated that all ordinances were thoroughly researched, that calls were made to the NJ DEP for clarification, that the committee worked with the Engineer and the Planning Board, and noted that it was still possible to make changes in the future.
Ms. Machnik commented on addressing future changes, if necessary, and the committee would make sure that they were as streamline as possible to avoid confusion.
Mr. Fiscor asked about any mitigation action or maintenance requirements. Ms. Machnik stated that this would be done on a case-by-case basis. Mr. Tatsch explained that the requirements mainly apply to construction with impervious surface and run-off conditions. Mrs. Bonette also noted that there are requirements for catch basin mark-outs and cleaning, and she noted that we are in a rural area (i.e., Tier B). She mentioned that there is a training video for the Department of Public Works, which she was sure that the Township DPW would "tweak and adjust" as necessary.
Mr. Spiegel commented on his knowledge of the Flood Hazard Control Act of '06, stating that it was going to supercede the stormwater management ordinances.
Motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to close to the public.
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously by roll call vote to adopt Ordinance 07-16: Mr. Spiegel, yes; Mrs. Cregar, yes; Ms. Lenox, yes; Ms. Machnik, yes; Mr. Tatsch, yes.
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (OEM): FLOOD MITIGATION PLAN FOR EAST AMWELL TOWNSHIP - OEM Deputy Coordinator Charles Soos was present.
Mr. Soos explained that less than a year ago, the OEM Council began participating in a flood mitigation program with the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) as a multi-jurisdictional infrastructure protection plan. The mitigation plan is more geared to Lambertville, Stockton, and riverfront areas prone to serious flooding, but Hunterdon County wanted a unified front of 100% participation from all municipalities. Mr. Soos outlined some of the issues involved in the plan, e.g., costal zone protection, density control, flood plains, forest fuel, shoreline setbacks, barrier protection, etc., noting protection techniques for water front properties along the Delaware (e.g., elevation of structures, protecting natural resources, etc.). Mr. Soos explained that Lambertville recently received $600,000 in funding.
Mr. Soos outlined the process, including the submission of a statement of intent, questionnaire, County checklist, workshop attendance, written information prepared for the County, citizen's questionnaire on the website (with data added to the County worksheet). Information was submitted to the County and DRBC on 9/16, and the material was analyzed and discussed. Mr. Soos met with the East Amwell Road Department for particular details. Mr. Soos explained that the conclusion was that flood prone areas in East Amwell Township could not be identified, and that community education and information on flood hazards is appropriate. The public hearing tonight is the next step in the process. The following step will be to have DRBC compile a document to be distributed to all municipalities and a resolution will be required.
Mr. Soos explained that East Amwell may be ahead of other municipalities who have not completed their assignments; at this time, the Township is in a holding pattern until the DRBC completes their compilation.
Mr. Tatsch asked about occasional flooding of the Neshanic, which is not in the Delaware Watershed. Mr. Soos commented that the map could be revised and this area included, but not at this point. Mr. Soos explained that the flooding areas must be repetitive to qualify for funding. He spoke about obtaining information from the DPW and the fire company; incidents were sporadic. He further explained that only two grants have been awarded to date, one in Lambertville and one in Warren County.
Motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to open to the public for comments. There being no comments from the public, motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and carried unanimously to close to the public.
Mr. Soos will keep the governing body informed when he hears back from DRBC. The Township Committee thanked Mr. Soos for his assistance and his presentation.
SPECIAL DISCUSSION - None
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS -
None
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
FARMLAND/OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION Chairwoman Glorianne Robbi was present for this discussion.
1) Rynearson P.I.G. Surveys, B.3/L.3 and Proposed 3.01: The November 8, 2007 memo from F/OSPC Administrator Conard outlined the request for authorization of a survey of the properties. The 85-acre parcel is being subdivided for two P.I.G. parcels; Mrs. Rynearson is responsible for the costs of the subdivision, and East Amwell usually pays for the P.I.G. surveys. Two quotes were received from Bohren and Bohren in the amount of $9,800 and from David Newton in the amount of $7,900. The F/OSPC recommendation is to award the project to David Newton.
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RESOLUTION #151-07
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, County of Hunterdon, State of New Jersey, that they hereby authorize the cost of the survey of Block 3/Lot 3 and proposed Lot 3.01; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that David Newton, 4 Walter Foran Boulevard, Suite 307, Flemington, New Jersey 08822, be awarded the project based on his quote of $7,900.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ROADS:
1) 2007 Overlay Work Completion: Mr. Matheny announced that Schifano Construction completed their overlay work on Woodsville Road, Snydertown Road, and Van Lieus Road, and DPW Superintendent George Howell was pleased with the results. Mr. Matheny classified the work as "outstanding." Mr. Matheny also noted that there were some savings made during the project, the contract for materials was $56.65 per ton of material.
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT:
1) OEM Report: Mr. Matheny commented on the work done by Deputy Coordinator Soos on the flood mitigation report project, stating that Mr. Soos did the work himself on his own time, after getting input from Bob Kadezabek, George Howell, and Mr. Matheny. Mr. Matheny spoke about Mr. Soos's "high level of commitment," and he asked that the governing body recognize the good job he did.
2) Clawson House Status: Mr. Matheny explained that Terry Golda is waiting to hear from the State on approvals to proceed with the stabilization of the house. Paperwork and the purchase order for the contractor are in place as soon as approvals have been given. Mr. Tatsch offered to write a letter to the State if it would be helpful.
Mr. Golda is also working on the barn specifications.
3) Municipal Building Renovations: Mr. Matheny explained that the plans were revised again (fourth time), and a lot of input was sought, including some great ideas from the staff. He showed the governing body the latest set of plans, explaining the layout: front hall entrance to a public hallway; French doors of glass on the right hand side for natural lighting; meeting room off the hallway large enough to accommodate the antique table in the office area; Tax Collector's secure office on right hand side with transom windows for light; Construction and Board of Health office on left hand side off the hallway; Zoning Officer's office behind construction with doors with access to Construction and to the meeting room; Clerk's Office on right side of hallway; Township Administrator's office immediately behind the Clerk's Office with room for small table for conferences; Tax Assessor and F/OSPC shared office (i.e., they use the area at separate times); CFO/Treasurer's office, and Planning/Zoning Office - all along the back wall. A locked file room will be set up where the current Administrator's office is located. The intent is to keep all areas locked and secured. The walls will be 7.5 feet with shelving on top; wallboard will be sound proof, and use of cubicle partitions will be included. Colors will be tan and maroon, which will blend with existing purple and gray scheme; Mohawk carpet (i.e., a speckled tan berber) is being proposed as a durable replacement, which will be worth the investment. Mr. Matheny explained that previous Township Committee member Don Reilly was helpful in suggesting making use of empty space by eliminating a proposed corridor.
Mr. Tatsch commented on using existing desks, which are in good shape. Ms. Machnik asked about Tuesday evening meetings, which usually take place in the small meeting room, i.e., will there be a problem with using the large table in the meeting room when some residents use the table to meet with Construction and Zoning - Mr. Matheny felt that meetings could be managed; Mr. Tatsch also noted that there may be some meeting rooms in Clawson House in the future.
Mr. Spiegel spoke about using wood studs in the construction, commenting on their use in public buildings as opposed to residential construction. He felt that this might be a problem with fire insurance. He also questioned the free-standing walls (not going to the ceiling); and he explained the existing building design with voids in the ceiling. He felt that the architect should have reviewed the building plans prior to design or discussed his plans with the Construction Official. Some discussion took place about the free-standing walls, state code requirements, and the building plans presented by Architect Golda who has had experience in designing other municipal buildings, etc. All agreed that Mr. Doddy would be issuing permits and provide input as necessary.
Mr. Tatsch agreed that it was appropriate to call upon an architect to prepare the designs; he and Mr. Matheny agreed on this after attempting to draw designs in a CAD program earlier in the year. Mr. Tatsch commented favorably on the help provided by Terry Golda.
Mr. Matheny spoke about work being done in the basement area, i.e., the walls have been framed out and a door installed. An electrician will be on site tomorrow to put outlets in the wall and near the sump pump and humidifer; on Saturday Bob Kadezabek will put up the sheetrock. There are no water problems in the basement at this time.
4) LINK/Lindbergh Road Update (See 10/25/07 Minutes for Background): A copy of a letter to the McGee family from The LINK was acknowledged; bus service is now available to the family. The LINK did not provide any criteria requirements for the Township to address. Repairs on the road are planned for next week, weather permitting.
5) OEM Radios: Mr. Matheny spoke about setting up the OEM radio cabinet and running cables downstairs, noting that this would be a more secure area for the department. The cost to run wires downstairs is approximately $1,800. A lightening arrest is also a necessity to protect the antennae and radios.
6) Municipal Prosecutor Position: The ad was posted on the League of Municipalities' website and posted on the bulletin board. The ad is also on the municipal website. Mr. Matheny has been in contact with the Stockton Borough Clerk about services for their court, i.e., there is a possibility that East Amwell can negotiate for them also. The deadline for applications for the position is November 21.
7) New DPW Employee: Joseph Adamow was scheduled to begin work for East Amwell Township on November 13. He has asked for a delay until the following Monday (i.e., November 19); he will be able to keep his medical benefits until the new year if he stays the additional time in his current position. Mr. Matheny was supportive of this request.
8) Defibrillator at Municipal Building: A box for mounting the equipment has been obtained and will be installed very soon. Mr. Tatsch asked if the new DPW employee has rescue squad experience; Mr. Matheny stated that neither new DPW employee has emergency technician training, although Mr. Adamow is a firefighter. George Howell was previously certified as an EMT, but is not currently certified. Ms. Lenox noted that she trains annually for equipment use; Mr. Matheny commented on addressing training at some point.
Ms. Machnik commended Mr. Matheny and Ms. Fritsch on the memo to announce Mr. Adamow’s employment and arrival date, adding it “was a good idea and a nice touch.”
9) Crosswalks in Ringoes: Mr. Tatsch recognized the letter sent by Mr. Matheny to the NJ Department of Transportation, stating that "it was a great letter." Mrs. Stahl was directed to send it along to the interested citizen's group as an update.
LENGTH OF SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM (LOSAP) - AMWELL VALLEY RINGOES RESCUE SQUAD UPDATE Mrs. Stahl provided a comparison sheet prepared in her office on various municipal program offerings. The July 2007 Township Committee minutes and the last email from Alan Latanzio on what the squad would like were also provided to the governing body members for their information. Mr. Tatsch commented on the variables listed in the compilation, depending on the number of squad members and budget commitments.
PARIS GRANT FUNDING UPDATE FROM THE CLERK Mrs. Stahl and Mrs. Fritsch recently attended a mandatory meeting at Hunterdon County to discuss future grant funding from the Division of Archives and Records Management (DARM). She reminded the governing body that Hunterdon County received a grant in 2007 for a needs assessment and strategic planning for all municipalities. The staff completed their records survey in July, and a copy of the SMART report on strategic plans was provided to the governing body for their information.
Municipalities are encouraged to apply for funding next year, up to the amount of $50,000. Mrs. Stahl had provided a copy of an email she sent to Mr. Matheny about funding options, i.e., stand alone applications or through the County; she asked the governing body to allow her to work with Mr. Matheny on strategies for the application. DARM is looking for a letter of interest in applying for funding by November 19.
Mr. Tatsch explained that there will be a lot of information available at the League of Municipalities Convention next week, and he spoke about specific items, such as computer systems, scanning construction plats, and digitized systems, which may be affordable.
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RESOLUTION #152-07
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that they hereby support the application for continued grant funding from the Division of Archives and Records Management for the next round.
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
NEW BUSINESS
REORGANIZATION DATE FOR 2008 AND INTERVIEW SCHEDULES FOR VOLUNTEERS
The governing body agreed that they would like to have Attorney Cushing present during the 2008 Reorganization. After some discussion, the event was scheduled for January 1, 2008, at 2:00 p.m.
Mr. Tatsch explained that names are still being sought for volunteer board positions, and he would like to take some more time to discuss the matter with Chairmen of the committees/boards. Mr. Tatsch stated that he would like to start interviews in December.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mr. Cushing stated that he would like to provide a brief update about litigation in executive session. All agreed that this would occur after the meeting has been open to the public for comments.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and carried unanimously to open to the public. There being no comments, motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and carried unanimously to close to the public.
NEW BUSINESS, Continued
EXECUTIVE SESSION WITH THE TOWNSHIP ATTORNEY
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RESOLUTION #153-07
WHEREAS, the Open Public Meetings Act, P.L. 1975, Chapter 231 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances; and
WHEREAS, East Amwell Township Committee is of the opinion that circumstances presently exist; and
WHEREAS, the governing body of the Township of East Amwell wishes to discuss litigation and receive advice from the Township Attorney; and
WHEREAS, minutes will be kept and once the matter involving the confidentiality of the above no longer requires that confidentiality, then minutes can be made public;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the public be excluded from this meeting.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Executive session began at 8:50 p.m.
The regular session resumed at 8:55 p.m., and Attorney Cushing left the meeting at this time.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented the bills of the evening, a statement of cash on hand, and appropriation summaries through November 8, 2007.
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the bills of the evening.
Treasurer's Resolutions:
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RESOLUTION #154-07
WHEREAS, certain Capital appropriation ordinances have funding that are no longer necessary; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to formally cancel said balances;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, County of Hunterdon, State of New Jersey, that the following unexpended balances be canceled:
Amount Cancel to:
Ordinance 07-02 Ford F350 Truck $2,662.35 Capital Surplus
By Order of the Township Committee,
______________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION #155-07
WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of East Amwell that the following escrow fees can be refunded;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the Treasurer is hereby authorized to refund the following amounts to the applicants:
Applicant Amount Refunded
Guy Stabler $185.00
Hunterdon Storage $339.50
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously to approve the resolutions.
TAX COLLECTOR HYLAND - No report or resolutions were offered at this time.
October 2007 reports from the Construction Official, the Municipal Court Administrator, and the Assistant DPW Superintendent were acknowledged without comments.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mrs. Cregar spoke with Recycling Committee Member/SWAC Representative Will Harrison today, and he encouraged a Township Committee member to attend the November 16 meeting at Hunterdon County at 7:30 a.m.
Ms. Machnik was unable to commit at this time. She noted that the County would be taking public comments on the plan and the local enforcement aspect is challenging to all. Attorney Judy Kopen was quoted in this evening's Hunterdon County Democrat, asking why a model ordinance was not presented up front for municipal review. Ms. Machnik agreed that there is not a lot of time and there are a lot of unknowns to uncover.
Mr. Tatsch asked Mr. Kneski (in the audience) if he and Timothy Martin would be able to attend the breakfast talk on November 16. Mr. Kneski did not know if his schedule would allow, and the Clerk will contact Mr. Martin to see if he is able to attend.
Ms. Machnik noted that there is a Recycling Committee scheduled for Tuesday, November 13, and it is anticipated that further discussion on the amendment will take place. Mr. Tatsch recently spoke with Mr. Harrison about this issue, and he agreed that there were some real issues, including the enforcement issue. Mr. Harrison also spoke about different haulers who operate in the Township, with some of the haulers also responsible for handling recycling along with the garbage. Mr. Tatsch expected to speak further with Mr. Harrison after the County meeting.
Mr. Tatsch noted the letter from the Township of Colts Neck on defining Mount Laurel (COAH) obligations. The gist of the letter is that the municipality believes that COAH only affects growth areas, and the regulations should not apply to areas where there is no growth. Colts Neck is looking to gather support from a number of similar municipalities for an appeal.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the possibility of meeting local obligations via arrangements with Easter Seals for group homes. He did not want to jeopardize the viable approach to meeting the Township's needs by working with Colts Neck. Mr. Tatsch also noted that COAH would be reorganizing in the next few months, and updated information is anticipated. In the meantime, the letter from Colts Neck was forwarded to Mr. Ginman and Mr. Robbins for their feedback.
Mr. Tatsch commented on negotiations with Easter Seals, noting that they have an existing house in the community, and the intent is to acquire a long term commitment. The current house is in need of repair, and the property owner has been approached about selling the property. The purchase of the property would be contingent with leasing to Easter Seals for a monthly rental fee to pay off the mortgage. Mr. Tatsch saw this as a "win-win" approach. Mr. Tatsch commented on Easter Seals being in the community for a long time, and Mrs. Cregar also commented positively about the residents. Mr. Spiegel questioned the Colts Neck Township letter in advance of state regulations, which "may be jumping the gun."
A recommendation was made to have the Board of Health spearhead the Radon Month campaign.
The letter from Raritan Township to Hunterdon County Regional High School Board of Education on cost sharing for a police officer was discussed. Mr. Tatsch stated that this will mean that all sending districts will be asked to cost share according to a formula, and it is not known what the cost will be; however, he would suspect the cost to be around $100,000. Mr. Spiegel said that he and previous Township Committee member Hoffman were made aware of this request when they discussed the school budget with the board earlier in the year. Some discussion took place, with references made to other control methods in schools such as Trenton.
Ms. Machnik asked Mr. Spiegel to again provide the reference he made earlier in the evening during the Stormwater Management ordinance discussion. Mr. Spiegel said that it was the Flood Hazard Control Act of '06. Ms. Machnik will find out about this act, and she will clarify the matter at an up-coming meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, motion by Ms. Machnik, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:15 p.m.
___________________________________
Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk