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 Kurt Hoffman, Richard Spiegel, and Linda Lenox. Township Administrator Timothy Matheny and Attorney Richard Cushing were 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 April 10, 2007.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
AGENDA REVIEW
Under Township Administrator's Update: Add Update on the Meszaros Property, including a Tax Foreclosure Inquiry of 3/30/07 and an Update on Alarm System
ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. 20th Anniversary Road-side Clean Up Day will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2007
The Township Committee offers their congratulations and appreciation to all who participate!
Call Blaine Hummell at 609:466-2907 to volunteer.
B. 2007 School Elections will be held on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., and all polls are located at the East Amwell Township Municipal Building.
C. Annual Clean Up Day will be held on Saturday, April 28, 2007, from 8 a.m. - noon at the municipal lot. Permits are available before hand through the Clerk's Office or on the day of the event. Call the Clerk's Office for details.
D. There will be a special meeting at the East Amwell Township Municipal Building on Wednesday, April 30, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. to hear a presentation from Hunterdon County representatives on conceptual plans for a new South County Library. Call the Clerk for further details.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
March 22, 2007 Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Mr. Spiegel, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and carried unanimously.
March 22, 2007 Executive Minutes (Personnel & Litigation) were approved on a motion by Mr. Spiegel, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and carried unanimously.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
Andrea Bonette, 17 Ridge Road, asked the following questions:
1. Has the budget been introduced? It was introduced on March 22, and a copy will be provided to her tomorrow.
2. Was there an additional $7,000 put in the budget for work for the Planning Board attorney? The budget will be reviewed and an answer will be provided to her as soon as possible.
3. How much money has been spent on new tables? Mr. Matheny said that the 1950's vintage table with broken leg was thrown away and replaced with a five foot table. The new table is currently in his office as a conference table and is used in the lobby during court sessions. There is a six foot table on order, which will be placed in the Road Department, and the five foot one will be left in the lobby permanently. Each table cost approximately $400.00.
4. What is the status on the hiring of a Deputy Clerk and an additional roadman? The Deputy Clerk position will be advertised within the next week or so. Mr. Tatsch explained that the positions were intended for partial year appointments to lessen the impact on the budget. Mr. Matheny explained the staggering of job opportunities, with the Planning Board Administrator position currently being posted.
5. What is the status of the easement file in terms of equestrian trails and other easements? She provided anecdotal information on easements at Carousel Estates. The importance of noting easements in deeds was mentioned.
6. Did East Amwell run out of cinders for winter road treatment? Mr. Spiegel explained that an account was set up with a quarry, and additional product is available.
7. Was the issue about emails she brought up at a recent Planning Board meeting investigated? Mr. Matheny said that the personnel matter was addressed and would not be discussed.
8. What was the status of the Maier ballfield? The Township Committee directed Mrs. Bonette to the Board of Adjustment for further information.
9. What is the status of the municipality's COAH Plan? Mr. Tatsch explained that there was a meeting last month with state representatives and with Easter Seals representatives to explore getting credit for the existing Easter Seals facility in town and to fund a new facility. Write Down/Buy Down agreements are not a viable option, since the costs have escalated from $20,000-30,000 to $150,000 for these agreements, and Regional Contribution Agreements are not viable options either.
Ms. Machnik made the motion, seconded by Mr. Spiegel, and it was carried to close to the public.
INTRODUCTION OF
ORDINANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS- none
SPECIAL DISCUSSIONS - None
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS -
None
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
RECYCLING COMMITTEE:
1) Annual Tonnage Grant Resolution:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION #67- 07
WHEREAS, the Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act, P.L. 1987, C.102, has established a recycling fund from which tonnage grants may be made to municipalities in order to encourage local source separation and recycling programs; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent and the spirit of the Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act to use the tonnage grants to develop new municipal recycling programs and to continue and to expand existing programs; and
WHEREAS, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has promulgated recycling regulations to implement the Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act; and
WHEREAS, the recycling regulations impose on municipalities certain requirements as a condition for applying for tonnage grants, including but not limited to, making and keeping accurate, verifiable records of materials collected and claimed by the municipality; and
WHEREAS, a resolution authorizing this municipality to apply for such tonnage grants for the calendar year 2006 will memorialize the commitment of this municipality to recycling and to indicate the assent of the Township Committee of East Amwell Township to the efforts undertaken by the municipality and the requirements contained in the Recycling Act and recycling regulations; and
WHEREAS, such a resolution should designate the individual authorized to ensure the application is properly completed and timely filed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that East Amwell Township hereby endorses the submission of the recycling tonnage grant application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and designates Joyce Corboy to ensure that the application is properly filed; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the monies received from the recycling tonnage grant be deposited in a dedicated recycling trust fund to be used solely for the purposes of recycling.
By Order of the Township Committee,
_____________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to adopt the resolution.
2) Recycling Coordinator as a Voting Member: The 3/30 memo from Joyce Corboy requesting clarification on the ordinance was addressed. Mr. Cushing referred to the 2/5/07 memo prepared by his firm, and read the section pertaining to "youth members - non voting." The way that the ordinance is crafted is intended not to deprive any member from voting, or it would so note. Mr. Cushing concluded that the structure is clear to him that there is no limitation on voting by all membership (except the youth members).
3)
Appointment of Environmental Commission Member: Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms.
Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to appoint Alice Celebre as the
Environmental Commission liaison to the Recycling Committee.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ROADS & PUBLIC WORKS
1) Stopping & Standing on Route 202/31: Jim Brophy, Rutgers Nursery, was present during this discussion.
Mr. Brophy previously presented his 3/28/07 letter to the Committee, outlining his concerns about intermittent tractor trailer parking (often overnight) blocking the entrance, and the line of sight for exiting motorists and consistent Treasury and NJ DOT inspections that convoy parking across the entire front of his property blocking the entrance to the nursery and the line of sight for exiting motorists. He was advised to bring his concerns to the governing body.
Mr. Matheny provided an overview of discussions of the issue he has had with Mr. Brophy since last fall. The section of Route 202/31 from Wertsville Road north to Route 514 is for emergency stopping only; however, signs are not posted, and a request has been made to NJ Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) for installation of these signs. Mr. Matheny has been in contact with Doug Bartlett at the NJ DOT, and he was advised in October that the signs could be posted within a few months (although this has not yet occurred). If the municipality agrees that they would like to prohibit any stopping or standing on the highway, a resolution is required, and the process may take over a year. Mr. Matheny cautioned that if the emergency stopping/standing signs are posted, this may impact the process of the no stopping/standing signs for a longer period. Enforcement was also mentioned.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the nature of the shoulder of the road used for emergency stopping, while north of Route 514, there was no stopping/standing. He also commented on the use of the area south of the nursery for NJ DOT inspections. Mr. Matheny explained that enforcement agencies have the authority to stop vehicles as they deem necessary, whether posted or not. Mr. Tatsch further explained that the area was an agreed upon location with NJ DOT several years ago where trucks could be inspected in a relatively safe location, and he did not want to jeopardize this trucking checking location (i.e., the only one between Route I-95 and here, a benefit to the municipality, and a possible deterrent to heavy trucks).
Mr. Brophy raised his objection about blocking the line of sight to the entrance of his business, and he has photographs to verify this. He also has to ask truckers who habitually stop in the area to move away from the business entrance. Mr. Brophy has spoken to the Planner, the Engineer, and to State Police Officer Skelton, and all agree that the line of sight cannot be blocked.
Mr. Spiegel asked about pulling trucks off the shoulder into the off-road area; Mr. Matheny spoke about weighing truck axels on a scale, which should be located on blacktop.
Mr. Tatsch recommended advising enforcement agencies to be aware of the issues. He asked the Committee whether they felt that the emergency stopping/standing signs should be installed now and ask for no stopping/standing signs later in the year, or to approve the resolution for no stopping/standing at this time. Mr. Hoffman recommended the first option.
Ms. Machnik asked about striping the shoulder of the road to indicate where the business sight line is located.
Mr. Brophy commented on having his engineer obtain approval to remove some of the emergency stopping/standing signs near his business entrance, but this has not been effective.
Mr. Matheny will contact the NJ DOT and request that the emergency stopping/standing signs be installed, and he will ask about striping the sight line easement. He will also inquire how that installation of no stopping/standing signs will affect the state enforcement location, and the governing body did not want to jeopardize this location.
2) Guard Rails on Van Lieus Road: Mr. Spiegel explained that the rail was installed on a slope and that it was installed at greater height than the required 15 inches in some locations. He has spoken with Public Works Supervisor Howell about grading the area when the weather is conducive. Mr. Spiegel advised that the guide wire was addressed.
3) Horse Trail Signs: The undated letter from Trish Buckwalter of the Amwell Valley Trail Association (AVTA) outlined the various locations where the AVTA would like to see traffic control signs located; some of the locations are on County Roads. Mr. Spiegel previously spoke to Ms. Buckwalter about obtaining prices for signs. Ms. Lenox indicated that the locations of the signs outlined in the letter are where existing signs are now installed, i.e., the new signs will be replacing the existing ones.
Mrs. Stahl spoke with an NJ DOT representative yesterday, who read specific citations from the traffic code; he advised that the NJ DOT does not get involved with sign placement and ordinances are not required. She also called the Colts Neck Administrator, who advised that their municipality and Millstone Township have installed these signs without ordinance and without engineering studies, using a "common-sense approach" to location of trails and horse activity. Mr. Matheny commented on his previous involvement with NJ DOT wherein there may be a liability issue if signs are installed without their approval.
The letter from AVTA indicates that they will pay for the signs, and they are asking the municipality for hardware and installation assistance from the Road Department. Mrs. Stahl will contact Ms. Buckwalter and asked if the signs are replacing existing ones. If the signs are on County Roads, the AVTA will have to contact the County for permission. The governing body was supportive of this request.
4) Man-hour Cost Analysis: Mr. Spiegel commented on the previous discussion on sweeping costs (see March 22, 2007, minutes for background). He provided a hand-out on cost calculations for road department man-powers, i.e., $30.15 per hour per roadman. He concluded that by renting the equipment at $87/hour and including a road man to assist, the cost was $117.15 per hour, equating to $4706 per week, calculating the work to be completed in 47 - 48 hours. Calculating the bill last year of $4,606 and adding $4,080 for the total package of man-hours, he stated that the cost to the municipality was $8,606. He commented on renting equipment at $1,800 per week and having Mr. Howell operate the equipment as a more economical method. Mr. Hoffman felt that the cost of the vehicle was being added twice into Mr. Spiegels' calculations. Mr. Tatsch commented that even with the recalculation, the cost was "a wash." Mr. Spiegel felt that the calculations should be considered in assessing the use of stone on roads (i.e., putting them down and picking them up). The governing body thanked Mr. Spiegel for his efforts.
US MAYORS CLIMATE PROTECTION AGREEMENT
(See March 22, 2007, Minutes for Background). Toni Robbi, Environmental Commission Member, was present during
this discussion.
The Environmental Commission discussed the matter at their recent
meeting, and they were recommending support for the agreement. Mr. Robbi explained that other
municipalities, including Raritan Township, have joined this grass-roots
campaign recognizing the need to change without a mandate for commitment to
make any changes. Mr. Robbi noted the
twelve examples as items, which had a beneficial effect on attacking other
environmental problems, such as pollution and energy and reduce the amount of
CO2 output. He commented on the
limited scope of what East Amwell could accomplish, but he felt that it was
beneficial for the community to "do something." Mr. Robbi noted the word
"striving" as a indicator that the municipality was
"trying" to accomplish environmental endeavors. Mr. Robbi urged the governing body to adopt
the resolution and add East Amwell's name with other municipalities in favor of
this proposal.
Mr. Hoffman stated that while he agreed with a lot of the goals and
benefits, he was skeptical about scientific articles with "overblown
predictions" of environmental concerns, and he could not support the
resolution.
Ms. Machnik asked if Mr. Robbi was here tonight representing the
Environmental Commission, and he said yes; he noted that the governing body
will be getting a letter from the Commission about their support. Ms. Machnik reminded the governing body
that she brought this resolution up at the last meeting and then brought the
matter to the attention of the Environmental Commission for their input. Mr. Robbi and Ms. Machnik exchanged
comments about another topic, which will be discussed by the Environmental
Commission in the future about suggestions they would like to support.
Mr. Spiegel commented on articles he has read, on documentaries he has
seen, and on speeches he has heard about global warming and "on nature
having a way to take care of itself."
He asked to have more data on both sides before he could support the
resolution.
Ms. Machnik was in support of the resolution, noting it was acceptable to
throw anything away in the past, and now we know better.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the correlation of CO2 in the atmosphere and
temperature changes in the earth. CO2 levels are at the highest levels in
600,000 years, and he explained how this is scientifically calculated. Even if the low estimate of 2 - 23 feet
ocean level rise occurs, it will cause widespread flooding, i.e., the lowest
prediction is an adversity. Mr. Tatsch
stated, "It behooves us to take steps at a local level … to make
improvements or face inevitable disaster.”
Mr. Tatsch commented on conservation of oil and land surface, and he
personally supported the resolution.
Ms. Lenox commented on her own experience over the past ten years, noting
temperatures are not dropping and causing pastures not to freeze as they once
did.
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RESOLUTION
#68-07
WHEREAS, the U. S. Conference of Mayors has
previously adopted strong policy resolutions calling for cities, communities
and the federal government to take actions to reduce global warming pollution;
and
WHEREAS, the
Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the International
Community’s most respected assemblage of scientists, has found that climate
disruption is a reality and that human activities are largely responsible for
increasing concentrations of global warming pollution; and
WHEREAS, recent,
well-documented impacts of climate disruption include average global sea level
increases of four to eight inches during the 20th Century; a 40 percent decline
in Arctic sea-ice thickness; and nine of the ten hottest years on record
occurring in the past decade; and
WHEREAS, climate
disruption of the magnitude now predicted by the scientific community will
cause extremely costly disruption of human and natural systems throughout the world
including: increased risk of floods or droughts; sea-level rises that interact
with coastal storms to erode beaches; inundate land; and damage structures;
more frequent and extreme heat waves; more frequent and greater concentrations
of smog; and
WHEREAS, on February 16,
2005, the Kyoto Protocol, an international agreement to address climate
disruption, went into effect in the 141 countries that have ratified it to
date; 38 of those countries are now legally required to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions on average 5.2 percent below 1990 levels by 2012; and
WHEREAS, the United
States of America, with less than five percent of the world’s population, is
responsible for producing approximately 25% of the world’s global warming
pollutants; and
WHEREAS, the Kyoto
Protocol emissions reduction target for the U.S. would have been 7 percent
below 1990 levels by 2012; and
WHERAS, many leading
U.S. companies that have adopted greenhouse gas reduction programs to
demonstrate corporate social responsibility have also publicly expressed
preference for the U.S. to adopt precise and mandatory emissions, targets and
timetables as a means by which to remain competitive in the international
marketplace, to mitigate financial risk and to promote sound investment decisions;
and
WHEREAS, state and local
governments throughout the U.S. are adopting emission reduction targets and
programs and that this leadership is bipartisan, coming from Republican and
Democratic governors and mayors alike; and
WHEREAS, many cities throughout
the nation, both large and small, are reducing global warming pollutants
through programs that provide economic and quality of life benefits such as
reduced energy bills, green space preservation, air quality improvements,
reduced traffic congestion, improved transportation choices and economic
development and job creation through energy conservation and new energy
technologies; and
WHEREAS, mayors from
around the nation have signed the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
which was amended at the 73rd Annual U.S. Conference of Mayors meeting. A copy of which is incorporated in this
resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED that the Township of East Amwell endorses the U.S. Mayors’ Climate
Protection Agreement as amended by the 73rd Annual U.S. Conference of Mayors
meeting and urges mayors from around the nation to join this effort.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED
that the Township of East Amwell will work in conjunction with the ICLEI Local
Governments for Sustainability and other appropriate organizations to track
progress and implementation of the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement as
amended by the 73rd Annual U.S. Conference of Mayors meeting; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED
that copies of this resolution shall be forwarded to the Hunterdon County
Freeholders, all Hunterdon County Municipalities and all State and Federal
Representatives for the State of New Jersey.
The U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
a. We urge the federal government
and state governments to enact policies and programs to meet or beat the target
of reducing global warming pollution levels to 7 percent below 1990 levels by
2012, including efforts to: reduce the United States’ dependence on fossil
fuels and accelerate the development of clean, economical energy resources and
fuel-efficient technologies such as conservation, methane recovery for energy
generation, waste to energy, wind and solar energy, fuel cells, efficient motor
vehicles, and bio-fuels;
b. We urge the U.S. Congress to
pass bipartisan greenhouse gas reduction legislation that includes 1) clear
timetables and emissions limits and 2) a flexible, market-based system of
tradable allowances among emitting industries; and
c. We will strive to meet or
exceed Kyoto Protocol targets for reducing global warming pollution by taking
actions in our own operations and communities such as:
1) Inventory global
warming emissions in city operations and in the community, set reduction
targets and create an action plan;
2) Adopt and enforce
land-use policies that reduce sprawl, preserve open space, and create compact,
walkable urban communities;
3) Promote
transportation options such as bicycle trails, commute trip reduction programs,
incentives for car pooling and public transit;
4) Increase the use of
clean, alternative energy by, for example, investing in “green tags,”
advocating for the development of renewable energy resources, recovering
landfill methane for energy production, and supporting the use of waste to
energy technology;
5) Make energy efficiency
a priority through building code improvements, retrofitting city facilities
with energy efficient lighting and urging employees to conserve energy and save
money;
6) Purchase Energy Star
equipment and appliances for city use;
7) Practice and promote
sustainable building practices using the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED
program or a similar system;
8) Increase the average
fuel efficiency of city fleet vehicles; reduce the number of vehicles; launch
an employee education program including anti-idling messages; convert diesel to
bio-diesel;
9) Evaluate
opportunities to increase pump efficient in water and wastewater systems;
recover wastewater treatment methane for energy production;
10) Increase recycling
rates in city operations and in the community;
11) Maintain health
forests; promote tree planting to increase shading and to absorb CO2; and
12) Help educate the
public, schools, other jurisdictions, professional associations, business and
industry about reducing global warming pollution.
By Order
of the Township Committee,
____________________________
C. Larry
Tatsch, Mayor
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Ms. Machnik made the motion, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried
with two nay votes from Mr. Spiegel and Mr. Hoffman.
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR'S UPDATE
1) Resignation of
Recreation Committee Secretary:
Sue Lang Saponara provided an email dated April 10, indicating that she
was resigning her position effective either April 9 or April 16, which ever was
more beneficial to the Township. She
will continue on in the position as an Alternate II on the Recreation
Committee.
Ms. Lenox made the motion, seconded by Mr. Hoffman and it was carried
unanimously to accept Ms.Lang Saponara's resignation with regret, effective
April 9, 2007.
2) End of Probationary Period for the Zoning
Officer: Zoning Officer McManus will end his
probationary period on April 19. Mr.
Matheny stated that this would be discussed in executive session.
3) 2007 Salary & Wage Resolution
Amendment for Township Administrator:
Mrs. Stahl reminded the governing body that the January 25, 2007 minutes
indicate that Mr. Matheny's salary would be adjusted to $52,000, effective on
his one year anniversary, which is April 18.
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RESOLUTION
# 69-07
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the 2007 Salary and Wage Resolution, adopted January 1, 2007, and amended on January 11, 2007, be further amended as follows:
Position Salary/Compensation
Township Administrator Timothy Matheny Change as follows:
From $50,160
To: $52,000
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be effective on April 18, 2007.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry
Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Mr. Spiegel approved the resolution, seconded
by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously.
4)
SelecTech Letter Re: PAIC
Survey of Facilities: Mr. Matheny commented that DPW
Superintendent Howell was working on the minor areas to be addressed during the
recent insurance inspection. Some
comments were made about the current bleachers on site, which may need to be
replaced.
5) Clawson Park
Update: Lord, Worrell, Richter
sent a letter dated 3/15 requesting a final payment of $14,300.32 to L. J. Macrancy
since the final punch list had been completed; they are also to post a
maintenance bond. Additionally, it was
noted that the septic system as built and certification have not been
submitted, although numerous attempts were made to get it from the engineer (i.e.,
the engineer said that the contractor was to provide the as-builts). Mr. Tatsch explained the need for an
as-built to verify site location of the system. It was noted that Lord, Worrell, Richter functioned as the Clerk
of the Works, certifying the work being done.
Mr. Cushing recommended looking at the original contract for
verification of responsibility for providing the as-built and
certification.
Mr. Tatsch made the recommendation to send a letter to Lord Worrell
Richter that the final payment will not be made until the septic system issue
is resolved. Mr. Hoffman commented
on other issues, such as the ice
skating rink problem.
Mr. Cushing suggested looking at the contracts for both Lord, Worrell,
Richter and the contract for L. J. Macrancy to determine who was responsible for
the septic system as-builts, noting that there may be some ambiguity in the
contract language. A copy of the final
punch list referred to in the 3/15 letter from the engineer will also be
reviewed. It was also noted that
there was still some additional funding to be paid to the engineer,
approximately $850.00.
6)
Meszaros Property Update: Mr.
Cushing contacted the attorney for Mr. Meszaros, Stephen Williams, and he is
agreeable to putting boulders on the property to block further dumping. Mr. Cushing will confirm this is
writing. Mr. Matheny will provide a
tax map and diagram of the property to send with the letter to verify site
locations.
Mr. Cushing referred to the recent
correspondence received by the Tax Collector on foreclosure proceedings - he
forwarded the material to Mr. Stephens, whose client may have been improperly
served. On a question from Mr.
Spiegel, Mr. Cushing noted that a senior lien holder must be paid by the junior
lien holders in order to be protected.
Mr. Cushing also spoke about the rights of redemption with interest,
penalties and subsequent taxes to be paid.
7)
Burglar Alarm System: Mr.
Matheny stated that the alarm system is being installed and will be finished
tomorrow. Access codes will be
assigned in order to activate and deactivate the system. Additionally, panic alarms will also be
installed. Mr. Matheny is also looking
into proximity readers for at least three doors.
NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
(NIMS): Ms. Machnik commented on attending
a recent program for ICS 402 training, designed for Township Committee
members. Mr. Tatsch also attended a
session, and Ms. Machnik recommended it for the remaining governing body
members to understand what roles they play in emergency incidents, either
complex or single, non-complex incidents.
Ms. Machnik suggested that it would be a good
idea to meet with the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) team to have them
provide sample scenarios and how to handle them, providing an understanding of expectations
and relativity to local, state, and federal preparedness. Mr. Tatsch agreed that there would be some
value to this, and OEM will be invited to present an approximate one hour
program at an upcoming meeting.
MAYOR'S UPDATE ON RUTGERS PROGRAM: Mr. Tatsch commented on attending a
Rutgers Program on Open Public Meetings, which was lead by a municipal
attorney. The program was
enlightening, and topics included forms of government, the Open Public Meetings
Act, OPRA requests, and liaisons, among other topics. In the Township Committee form of government, a liaison's function is to provide
information with decisions made by the governing body, noting that if they are
not acting as a governing body, there is a potential to be sued.
Other topics discussed at the forum included
the following: public discussion time
limits may be set, and citizens cannot give their time to another citizen to
extend that citizen's time limit; only one "open to the public"
session is required at meetings; the speaker stated that draft minutes do not
have to be made public - however, Mr. Cushing commented that OPRA may differ in
this perception; Mr. Hoffman commented on the fact that East Amwell now has a
recording system where sessions are saved, and he felt that in-depth minutes
were not critical as in the past; if a meeting is filled to capacity, citizens
cannot be denied access to the meeting, and other provisions must be made;
emails must be used carefully and judiciously and not be meant to circumvent
the open public meetings act. Mr.
Tatsch concluded that it was a worthwhile presentation and urged other members
to consider attending future programs.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Susan Monroe, 27 Ridge Road, asked if there was any consideration given to obtaining generators for emergency situations. Committee members noted that it had been discussed in the past. Mr. Spiegel explained that the plan would be to provide a pad in the rear of the building (where power comes into the building), and a transfer switch would be installed to acquire the generator in emergency situations only. The cost for this would be approximately $25,000-30,000. There are no plans to purchase a generator for the building (i.e., costly, a problem with noise levels during weekly cycles, etc.). The school has no generator, but it was believed that the firehouse does have one. It was suggested that the rescue squad may plan on installing one when they build their new facility.
Mrs. Monroe asked about the possibility of having a weekly recycling depot to encourage more recycling by residents. Some discussion took place about this, and the Recycling Committee will be asked to consider this.
Andrea Bonette, 17 Ridge Road, commented on the following:
1) The recycling depot is manned by volunteers, and she commented on difficulties in expecting volunteers to be present every day or every week.
2) Mrs. Bonette worked with Charles Soos and Jeff Luster to revise the OEM manual when she was Mayor, and she suggested that the Deputy Mayor may want to read about responsibilities outlined in the manual.
3) Mrs. Bonette was contacted by an environmental consultant, who is very knowledgeable about environmental items, including the "Handex" matter. She will provide Mr. Tatsch with contact information so that the consultant's company might quote on the project.
4) Page 5 of the most recent minutes referenced having the Zoning Officer comment on stormwater ordinances; Mrs. Bonette was unsure why this would be necessary.
5) Mrs. Bonette mentioned being aware of Mr. Brophy's operation since she was Chair of the Environmental Commission years ago. She noted that Mr. Brophy purchased the property knowing that there was a "pull off" area for inspections on the highway. She also recommended contacting Treasurer Luhrs to obtain information on the amount of money paid by taxpayers in legal issues and about significant outstanding fines levied by the Superior Court. She concluded that the governing body should "do the right thing for public safety … and not bend over backwards.”
Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, commented on the following:
1) She has lived in East Amwell for 12 years and is familiar with the truck stopping problems on Route 202/31, done possibly to comply with mandatory rest periods. She cautioned that where the trucks stop is close to woods, the school, and baseball fields, which is a safety concern. Minimizing truck stopping and moving them elsewhere is worth discussing.
2) West Amwell Township has recycling every week, and she suggested contacting them for a shared services agreement, noting that this would be a convenient location for East Amwell Township residents to bring their recycables.
3) Ms. Gavigan will prepare a spreadsheet of the man-hour figures, based on calculations she came up with this evening, showing a decrease in expenses from $7,40 to $5,460 if the Road Department members, including the DPW Superintendent, did the sweeping work with rental equipment.
Ms. Machnik made the motion, seconded by Mr. Spiegel, and it was carried to close to the public.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS, Continued
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RESOLUTION #70-07
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 personnel issues and to receive advice from the attorney on litigation; 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,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution to enter executive session after a five minute break, taken at 9:40 p.m.
The executive session began at 9:45 p.m.
The regular meeting resumed at 10:05 p.m., and Mr. Cushing left the meeting at this time.
For the record, no action was taken on Zoning Officer McManus's regular appointment; this item will be addressed at the next meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RESCUE SQUAD: The Committee acknowledged the golden anniversary of the rescue squad.
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RESOLUTION #71-07
A RESOLUTION OF CONGRATULATIONS
WHEREAS, the Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps began operations in 1957 and originally incorporated on May 12, 1958, as a “non-profit corporation for the purpose of providing ambulance service to the sick, injured or disabled, and to save life in and around Ringoes, New Jersey, and the surrounding territory”; and
WHEREAS, the original offices were located at the “Ringoes Fire House” with trustees to be elected by membership of the Corps at their annual meeting on the third Monday of December each year, and over the years, the Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps revised its constitution and by-law to address increasing membership requirements and protocols; and
WHEREAS in 1975, Round Valley Inc., conveyed to the Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps the land where the Corps currently occupies and the squad is attempting to purchase land in a more convenient location to its ever expanding service area; and
WHEREAS, in July 2006, the rescue squad officially changed its name from the “Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps to the Amwell Valley-Ringoes Rescue Squad” to “better reflect the area served and the services provided,” always keeping the same goal of helping the Ringoes and surrounding area with emergency and ambulance service;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the governing body, on behalf of the residents of East Amwell Township hereby congratulate the members of the Amwell Valley-Ringoes Rescue Squad (formerly known as the Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps) on the celebration of their Golden Anniversary; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the governing body commends and applauds all of the volunteers of the squad who have provided and continue to provide emergency services to the community over the past 50 years.
Congratulations on Your 50th Anniversary!
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry
Tatsch, Mayor
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Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented a revenue report, statement of cash on hand, and the bills of the evening. Two corrections were made to the bill list, i.e., delete a bill for Staples in the amount of $281.29 and add a bill for Cornerstone Printing in the amount of $186.45, for a total bill list of $1,250,026.49.
Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Mr. Spiegel, and it was carried unanimously to approve the bills of the evening.
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RESOLUTION #72-07
EMERGENCY TEMPORARY RESOLUTION
PRIOR TO ADOPTION OF THE BUDGET
(see attachment at end of minutes)
WHEREAS, an emergency condition has arisen with respect to inadequate appropriation balances remaining in many of the 2007 temporary budget appropriations due to delays in the 2007 budget process: and
WHEREAS, inadequate provision has been made in the 2007 temporary budget for the aforesaid purposes, and N.J.S.A. 40A:4-20 provides for the creation of emergency temporary appropriations for the purposes above mentioned; and
WHEREAS, the total emergency temporary resolutions adopted in the year 2007 pursuant to the provisions of N.J.C.A. 40A:4-20 (Chapter 96, P.L. 1951 as amended) including this resolution total $162,600.00.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:4-20:
1. An emergency temporary appropriation be and the same is hereby made for each of the accounts listed on the attached.
2. That each said emergency temporary appropriation has been provided for in the 2007 budget under the same title as appropriated above.
3. That one certified copy of this resolution be filed with the Director of Local Government Services.
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to amend the 2007 temporary budget.
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RESOLUTION #73-07
WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of East Amwell that the following escrow fee 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 amount to the applicants:
Applicant Amount Refunded
New Cingular Wireless, PC, LLC $474.29
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms. Machnik, and it was carried unanimously.
TAX COLLECTOR HYLAND presented the March 2007 Municipal Receipts and Disbursement Report. She also presented the March 31, 2007, Report for Uncollectible Taxes for 2005 & 2006, showing no uncollectible taxes.
Some discussion took place on Mrs. Hyland’s request for inserts for the tax bill mailing. Committee members will consider this item prior to June 11. Ms. Machnik suggested the possibility of reminding JCP&L customers of where they can locate potable water supplies if there is a power outage.
All other reports were noted without comment.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mr. Spiegel recommended that the governing body endorse the resolution adopted by the Hunterdon County Freeholders supporting A-1707 & S-1522 on disabilities.
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RESOLUTION #74-07
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 1707 and Senate Bill 1522 respond to a need long identified by people who have a disability and their families - answering those needs by creating a partnership between state and county in the same manner as currently exists between the state and county Offices on Aging; and
WHEREAS, the Bills would provide up to $20,000.00 to establish a new office or help maintain an existing office for the disabled in every county in the State of New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, dating back to 1976, the need for county Offices for the Disabled continued to rank among the top four needs of people with disabilities, along with the need to develop better systems of services;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, County of Hunterdon, State of New Jersey, as follows:
1. The Township Committee supports Assembly Bill 1707 and Senate Bill 1522 to provide for the establishment and support of County Office for the Disabled in all 21 New Jersey Counties.
2. The Township Committee hereby joins with the New Jersey Association of County Disability Services, New Jersey Area Agencies on Aging Association, New Jersey Council on Special Transportation, New Jersey Casino Revenue Fund Advisory Commission and disabled residents and their families, among others, in urging placement on the Legislature’s agenda for passage in 2007.
3. A copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to Governor Jon Corzine, Senator Leonard Lance, Senator Robert Littell, Assemblywoman Marcia Karrow, Assemblywoman Alison McHose, Assembly Michael Doherty, and Assemblyman Guy Gregg.
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Ms. Lenox made the motion, seconded by Mr. Spiegel, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Mr. Tatsch noted the state and county correspondence about Cross-Acceptance, and he noted that representatives for 2007 have not been appointed. Last year, Barbara Wolfe and Don Reilly participated, with Kurt Hoffman as an Alternate. Mr. Hoffman agreed to continue as Alternate. The Clerk will contact Barbara Wolfe to ask if she is still willing to assist and also contact Don Reilly to continue. If Ms. Wolfe is not able to do so, Mr. Reilly will be asked to recommend a second participant.
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Hoffman made the motion and seconded by Ms. Lenox to adjourn the meeting. However, Jason Read, Captain of the Amwell Valley- Ringoes Rescue Squad, arrived at the meeting and asked to make a brief statement.
Mr. Read noted that DPW Superintendent George Howell provided critical support at a highway accident last week. Mr. Howell arrived on the scene before the rescue crew and was able to open a victim's airway and stabilize the victim until initial care arrive. Mr. Read commended Mr. Howell for his superb assistance. Mr. Hoffman made the motion, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to provide a letter of commendation to Mr. Howell for his great assistance.
Mr. Tatsch also advised Mr. Read that the governing body approved a resolution of congratulations to the rescue squad earlier this evening. Once it is suitably framed, a photo opportunity will be arranged.
Mr. Hoffman reiterated his motion to adjourn, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn at 10:15 p.m.
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Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk