A special meeting of the East Amwell Township Committee came to order at 7:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Larry Tatsch, Deputy Mayor Kathleen Machnik, and Committee members Richard Spiegel and Linda Lenox. Committee member Kurt Hoffman was absent.

In compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act, a copy of notice of this meeting was filed in the Clerk's Office, posted on the bulletin board, and sent to the Hunterdon County Democrat, Times of Trenton, and Star Ledger on April 19, 2007. The purpose of this meeting is to hear a presentation from Hunterdon County representatives on conceptual plans for a new South County Library. The public is invited to attend and comment during the open session. Action may or may not be taken.

Mayor Tatsch commented on the history of Hunterdon County Library presence in the municipality during the past three decades, e.g., bookmobile, trailer on municipal site, and at its current 2,500 square foot location in the village area. He commented on working with the County Library representatives this year to discuss development plans, noting that East Amwell Township was pleased that it was being considered as a location for the new facility.

Mark Titus, Executive Director of Hunterdon County Library, introduced himself and others who were present this evening, i.e., Director of Engineering & Bridges John Glynn, Project Manager Frank Bell, and Dr. Thomas Valasek from the Library Commission along with another Library Commissioner, Nancy Fuchs.

Mr. Titus explained that County representatives appreciated the opportunity to meet and discuss proposals with East Amwell Township representatives in March. The intent of the County is to construct a permanent facility as a South County Regional Library. The current site is under lease, with a five-year option agreement. There is an increase demand for services in the current location, and the question of rent is also a consideration. Mr. Titus spoke abut the long term plan of strategic placement of libraries serving more than one community in a region by 2020. There are currently 10 libraries in varying sizes, and the South County Library has surpassed its capacity to expand. Last year, the South County Branch had a circulation of 90,000 books, which is indicative of an increased growth in services.

As background material, Mr. Titus explained that the North County Branch Library is a good model of the regional library concept as a 22,000-25,000 square foot facility, which is cost effective and efficient.

Overhead slides of aerial and land views of the proposed property were shown.

The plan being presented tonight was only one option to create a facility in the southern part of South County Park. A plan entitled Phase One Layout Plan was displayed on a whiteboard and on an overhead projector; it was noted that "this is just an idea" and is similar to the North County Branch. The facility was proposed on the south side of the second access road of the existing fairgrounds, adjacent to the Case property. It is not part of the former Case property, i.e., a 40 + acre parcel, which was acquired by the County separately. The 22,000-24,000 square foot facility would be surrounded by a parking area off of the access road, which would be a common road for the fairgrounds also. A detention basin would be built to the front, right side of the parking lot in front of a tot lot. There is currently a tree-forested area in the proposed location. There will be direct access to Route 179, and there are water management and septic design issues, and if Green Acre funding is used for the property, the process may be a long one.

The North County Library facility includes a 22,000 square foot building, with two floors, a large meeting room (capable of holding 90 people), a smaller meeting room, a quiet study room, public internet, and a wide array of programs. The conceptual plan for the South County branch would be similar. Some discussion took place about having the senior citizen group (who currently uses the Route 12 County Complex for its meetings) utilize the meeting room at this facility. The intent is to build a community oriented facility, and Mr. Titus referred to a "transitional time" in filling such a center.

Other programs include use of the building by 4H groups and use by writing groups, similar to groups currently meeting at other library locations. The writing groups range up to 60 participants learning writing skills as authors of children's books, horror stories, and romance novels. Having a separate meeting space in South County may encourage smaller groups to participate in educational endeavors. Parking is ample to accommodate larger attendance at the site.

Mr. Bell referred to LEEDS, Leadership in Environmental Engineering Design Standards, which is a certification program of the US Green Building Council for development of sustainable green buildings, i.e., energy and conservation are paramount, including environmental friendly paints and infrastructure designs. The area is suitable for landscaping and garden potential. Mr. Titus spoke about being a teaching tool for 4H members and others.

Slides of the North County Library were shown to depict the proposed size of the facility, noting that the South County branch would reflect design considerations for the specific site.

Mr. Titus showed the slide, which read, "Where do we go from here?" He explained that there would be a checklist of items to discuss. The County was here this evening to determine interest in the facility.

Diane Griffith commented on having a place for senior citizens to meet, noting that past discussions with the Planning Board revealed this as a good concept.

A question was raised about having a basement in the building; this could be done, but there may be a potential for flooding.

Having seniors use the facility would be beneficial. Offering programs to all age groups, including senior citizens and groups such as 4H clubs, would also be a plus. Mr. Titus noted that the current South County branch is open 48 hours per week (and will be increasing to 56 hours per week), and a new facility could be open 60 hours a week.

Glorianne Robbi asked about Green Acres funding for recreational use. Mr. Glynn explained that there "might be some hurdles" but the County made a team decision to look at acquiring Green Acre funding, citing specific examples of schools in New Jersey who qualified for funding. The site can be supportive of 4H activities on a park setting with the library present. Mr. Bell commented on having lots of purposes on the site, which may qualify for the funding.

Mr. Glynn commented that South County would encompass East Amwell, West Amwell, one-half of Delaware, Stockton, and the lower part of Raritan.

Mr. Titus explained the intent of creating a community center, with the library being a gathering place for family nights, entertainment, various groups, educational endeavors, etc.

Mr. Titus commented on purchasing another book mobile and having an additional driver to provide greater service to County residents.

Richard Ginman commented on supporting the development of a new South County Library, and he asked about amenities for the senior citizens to use the facility, i.e., would there be some kitchen equipment. County representatives commented on preparing a wishlist, including a refrigerator and microwave at some point.

Mr. Ginman asked about allowing performing arts at the facility. Mr. Titus commented on currently having musical programs at the main library, which are limited in size. Oftentimes, people are turned away and asked to come back to later productions or see productions in other venues. Mr. Titus remarked that the current Hunterdon County population is very interested in musical and art presentations along with educational opportunities.

Kathy Machnik liked the idea of programs for young and old residents of the County, including library programs and cultural activities. She was interested in the LEEDS program, and Mr. Bell explained that the County is currently working on its first building complying with certification requirements. He explained that even if a building wasn't certified, there were basic natural concepts that could be followed.

Ms. Machnik recognized that this was a beginning process, and she asked if there would be opportunities for additional public feedback in the planning process. Comments were made about having more public meetings about the development.

An unidentified resident of Gulick Road commented on treacherous and unsafe road conditions, especially in light of heavy rain conditions. Mr. Glynn stated that the County did not anticipate any repairs on Gulick Road. Location of the road in proximity to the fairgrounds was discussed.

Another resident from West Amwell asked about the location of the library in the previously proposed picnic area. Mr. Glynn stated that the tot lot and picnic area would be moved to the back of the property, and if need be, would extend onto the Case property. The intent is to have mixed uses on the site and details can be added and enhanced.

The same resident asked about lighting the site to minimize disturbance to neighbors; Mr. Bell acknowledged that guidelines would be followed in lighting standards, and they could be turned off at a set hour (i.e., perhaps 9 - 9:30 p.m. like the main library).

Mr. Titus spoke about creating a facility in a location which was compatible with the area. The resident on Gulick Road commented about being promised buffers from the fairgrounds in past discussions with the County; however, the buffers were never provided.

Mr. Glynn commented that any plans would be submitted to the local Planning Board for informational purposes. He commented on the need for balance and a decision that the right location is selected. He commented on outreach to other communities, including Delaware Township and West Amwell Township.

Another unidentified gentleman asked if the area would be used for passive recreation only, and he asked about restrooms on the site. County representatives stated that there are trails on the park site now, and there is a septic design for a building to be built. Mr. Bell provided comments on the current design and location of it. Mr. Tatsch stated that during fairground property reviews, the Board of Health always intended that portajohns would be used for large attendance events. The septic system was for staff and smaller groups.

Ms. Machnik asked for an estimated time line. Mr. Titus stated that originally, the County thought that it would be 3 - 5 years, with 5 years being more realistic. However, if Green Acres funding is considered, it may take at least 1.5 years for that approval process. The possibility of entering a partnership with another municipality to acquire property to build may also be an option to consider.

Mrs. Robbi asked about Green Acres funding concerns, and Mr. Glynn outlined the use of Green Acres and Open Space Funding for the currently owned properties. Mr. Glynn suggested that obtaining a separate 8 - 10 acre parcel somewhere in South County may be a better plan of action. Comments were made that while it would be a shame to have the facility leave the village area, it would still be located in the South County region.

Lora Olsen agreed that she would like to see the library in the village area also. She also suggested that underground parking be considered to reduce impervious coverage impact, and she would like to see a design similar to an old barn and "not a chicken coop."

Toni Robbi, who identified himself as a member of the Environmental Commission, preferred that the woods remain where they were. He also spoke about the area of water currently sited on the fairgrounds. Mr. Glynn explained that it was naturally occurring during development of the fairgrounds, and the County does have the right to fill it in, if they choose. Some further comments were exchanged by Mr. Robbi and the County about getting federal funding to develop wetlands on properties in a "less conventional method." Mr. Glynn suggested seeing a site in Oldwick, which was a good example of such wetlands.

Mr. Ginman asked about using the same access road as the fairgrounds. Mr. Glynn felt that the NJ Department of Transportation would not want to see another access road created, and he also commented about difficulties in sharing one road during the busy fair season each year. Mr. Ginman suggested planting trees near the parking areas to produce shade. Mr. Robbi suggested using semi-permeable material instead of macadam.

Mrs. Olsen questioned using the facility for events past a set time, suggesting that this may have been a consideration by the Planning Board in past discussions with the development of the fairgrounds. She also asked if musical events would be planned. The development of the site for passive activities and 4H events was mentioned, and traffic concerns were also mentioned.

Mrs. Stahl commented that in her role as Clerk, there have been no major complaints about activities on the site since the fairground have been in operation. The woman from Gulick Road stated that ferris wheel lights disturb her daughter, and Mrs. Olsen, as Clerk in West Amwell, stated that she receives complaints.

The County was thanked for their presentation this evening.

Ms. Machnik made the motion, seconded by Mr. Spiegel, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 8:05 p.m.

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Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC

Municipal Clerk