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 Linda F. Lenox, and Committee members Patricia Cregar, Peter Kneski, and Timothy Martin. Township Administrator Timothy Matheny was absent.
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 3, 2008, and a meeting notice published in the Hunterdon County Democrat issue of January 10, 2008. 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 March 25, 2008.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
AGENDA REVIEW
Under Announcements, item A, change the time for the Preservation Outreach Fair to 7:30 p.m. Under Standing Committee Reports, add item B under the Environmental Commission, ANJEC Grant Application for the Conservation Easements/Amended Resolution; Under New Business, table item A on the Support of Preservation of Western Hunterdon County Park until the April 24 meeting; add a new item on an update from Mayor Tatsch on the Hunterdon County Shared Services Meeting on 3/26/08. Under Correspondence, add the 3/20 resolution from Hunterdon County Freeholders Opposing the Elimination of the Department of Agriculture
ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. The Farmland/Open Space Preservation Committee will hold their Preservation
Outreach Fair on March 31, 2008, at 7:30 p.m. Call the Clerk's Office for details.
B. The Township Committee will hold a special meeting on April 2, 2008, at 7:00 p.m.
to Continue Discussions on the 2008 Budget. The public is invited to attend.
C. Hunterdon County Utilities will hold a Hazardous Waste Clean Up Day on
March 29, 2008, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the County Complex on Route 12.
Call 908-788-1110 for details
D. School Board Elections will be on April 15, 2008, from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. All polls
are located at the municipal building.
E. Roadside Clean-up Day is scheduled for April 19, 2008. Contact Blaine Hummel
at 609:466-2907 to volunteer.
F. Township Clean-up Day is April 26, 2008, from 8 a.m. - noon, on the municipal
property. Permits are available from the Clerk's Office: $15-car; $20-SUV; $35-
truck. I.D. will be required. Contact the Clerk's Office for further information.
G. There will be no curbside brush pick up in 2008. Mr. Tatsch explained that alternatives are
being considered since the program has been discontinued because of budget cuts.
H. Dog Licenses are now overdue. There is a $25.00 late fee per dog, effective March 1st.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
March 13, 2008, Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
March 13, 2008, Executive Minutes were approved on a motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
Dick Ginman, 125 Mountain Road, spoke about the active search for recreation land by the Farmland/Open Space Preservation Committee (F/LOSP) and the Recreation Committee. In a recent discussion with the Hunterdon County Parks Director, he advised that there is County land across from South County Park in West Amwell. The County has always intended that the site be used for active recreation. A suggestion was made to contact West Amwell Township about their interest in a cooperative effort to develop this property for active recreation. One member of the West Amwell Township Committee has already agreed to be involved in negotiations. It was also noted that the Hunterdon County Freeholders might be "unsettled" on their commitment to open space funding at this time.
The Township Committee members were all in favor of pursuing possible future active recreation at this site. Mr. Ginman commented on past plans to develop the land when South County Park was being developed; however, when development issues, including Board of Health concerns materialized, the plans to develop the West Amwell site "went to the back burner." Mr. Ginman believed that new municipal and county leaders might be willing to move forth. Mr. Tatsch spoke about an archived sign on the West Amwell site in the past which stated that the land would be used for active recreation.
Neal Tobin, 41 Wagner Road, spoke about the lack of communication about spraying for gypsy moth suppression. Highlights included the following: he spoke about a visitor to his property last spring who advised him about the devastation taking place because of the moths; he has paid over $1,000 in two years for spraying, however, the treatment cannot get to the top of the trees unless it is done aerially; the very old trees on his property and along Wagner Road will be destroyed unless treated appropriately; he voiced concern that the Township would pay to preserve farmland and not find the money to treat 23 properties along Wagner Road; his neighbors, the Jarretts, are also concerned about the infestation, but Mr. Tobin did not know how many more of his neighbors along the road have the same concerns; Mr. Tobin explained that Wagner Road is a dividing road, and Delaware Township is spraying; Mr. Tobin believed that letters should have been sent to residents on Wagner Road.
Mrs. Stahl explained that the Township was following state guidelines on notification of residents, and the next step was to notify the residents on Wagner Road at the end of March or early April to advise of treatment; however, this was not done since the Township Committee cut the program during budget meetings. Mr. Tatsch explained that the state originally intended to treat the area with two applications at a township cost of over $6,000, but due to financial cuts, the state would only spray one application at a cost of $3,000. The governing body felt that one treatment of BTK would only be minimally effective, and once the state cut $168,000 in aid, the suppression program was abandoned. Mr. Tatsch noted that the Township Committee does share Mr. Tobin's concern about the situation, but he did not believe one treatment application would have been effective, and he provided specifics about the timing of treatment. Mr. Tobin countered that 30% effectiveness was better than no treatment at all. Mr. Martin asked if Mr. Tobin and his neighbor considered private aerial treatment; Mr. Tobin said no.
Mr. Tatsch suggested scraping unhatched egg cases before they hatched, noting a similar problem he had with the infestation in the 1970's. Mr. Ginman also suggested using tanglefoot, which is a material put on the trees to discourage the moths from climbing; he also suggested tying burlap around the tree to catch and destroy the pests.
Mr. Tobin concluded that he paid a large amount of real estate taxes, and that the gypsy moth suppression service and brush clean up services have been eliminated; he question what services he was getting for his taxes.
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS –None
SPECIAL DISCUSSIONS
AWARD OF BID FOR PURCHASE OF MOWER: Mr. Tatsch explained the history of the bid for a high capacity rotary mower, which was primarily for Clawson Park. The DPW staff, the Township Administrator, and the Township Committee had previously agreed to the purchase, and $48,000 was appropriated by ordinance. The mower was put out to bid last year, and two bids were received, one over the bid threshold and the second one had two bids in one submission (i.e., one under bid and one under bid for a "used" model). Neither bid was accepted. The bid specs have been changed in this round to accept a demonstrator model or a new model.
Mrs. Stahl stated that two bid packages were picked up by Storr Tractor and from Grainger Equipment; only one bid was returned by Storr Tractor in the amount of $43,572.00; the amount has been certified by the Treasurer. Mr. Tatsch stated that it was a demonstration model with less than 230 hours of use and is acceptable. Attorney Judith Kopen has reviewed the bids and finds that they are satisfactory.
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RESOLUTION #55-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that they hereby accept the following bid:
Storr Tractor Company
3191 US Highway 22
Branchburg, NJ 08876
In the amount of $43,572.00 for the Purchase
Of A High Capacity Rotory Mower with On-Demand
Four Wheel Drive and Three Section All Out Front Mower Deck
By
Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution to award the bid.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS
CLAWSON PARK: Mrs. Cregar explained that Will Harrison has assisted on some matters as a member of the Park Committee. She will speak with the Township Administrator when he returns from vacation, and there will be a meeting scheduled within the next month. Committee members include Will Harrison, Barbara Golda, Peg Sullivan, Terry Welsh, Jack Balint, and Mark Rehl. It was felt that members from F/LOSPC and the Environmental Commission would be appropriate in light of the proposed plans to build a bio-retention pond on the property. Mrs. Cregar recommended the appointment of Dick Ginman from F/LOSPC and Mike Petrus from the Environmental Commission.
Mrs. Cregar stated that it has not yet been determined how often the committee would meet or if there would be individual tasks assigned.
Motion by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to appoint Dick Ginman and Mike Petrus to the Clawson Park ad hoc committee.
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
BOARD OF HEALTH
1) Meszaros Property: Professional Services Resolution to Hire ERM: (See 3/13/08 Minutes for Background). Mr. Tatsch reminded the governing body that Environmental Remediation Management, Inc. actually wrote the proposal to do the Remedial Investigation for the Meszaros property, which is fully paid for by the grant from the Economic Development Authority (EDA). The resolution is necessary to hire the firm. Lorraine Staples, an attorney at Gebhardt & Kiefer, has been working with the Township on completing the necessary paperwork for EDA .
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RESOLUTION #56-08
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell has
been awarded a grant from the NJ Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund
through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) in the amount of
$202,444 for remedial investigation and preparation of a report for the
Meszaros Auto Wrecking site; and
WHEREAS, Environmental Resources
Management (ERM) has submitted the work plan, which was the basis for the award
of the EDA grant funding;
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East
Amwell, County of Hunterdon, State of New Jersey, as follows:
The Mayor and Township Clerk are hereby
authorized and directed to execute a contract
with the following firm for the Hazardous Discharge
Site Remediation Fund Grant Project to Perform the Remedial Investigation Work
Plan for Meszaros Auto Wrecking:
Environmental
Resources Management
Princeton
Crossroad Corporation Center
250
Phillips Boulevard, Suite 280
Ewing,
New Jersey 08618
In
the amount $184,040.00 with $18,404 being
provided
to the NJ DEP for Oversight Costs
BE IT
FURTHER RESOLVED that notice of this action shall be printed in the April 3,
2008, issue of the Hunterdon County Democrat, and Copies of the Agreement and
work plan may be reviewed at the Municipal Clerk’s Office during regular
business hours.
PUBLISHED: April 3, 2008, Hunterdon County Democrat
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C.
Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION:
1) ANJEC Grant for Retention Basin Project at Clawson Park: Environmental Commission member Toni Robbi was present. There was a 2/27 letter from F/LOSPC in support of the grant application, using $2,000 in funding from the East Amwell Township Open Space Trust Fund. The Environmental Commission also passed a resolution of support on March 24.
Mr. Robbi provided information, with the following highlights: the plan for the bio-retention pond was based on a past visit to an arboretum, which has a similar pond; former Township Committee member Kathy Machnik also asked that the project be vetted by the Stormwater Management Ad Hoc Committee; the project was referred to Engineer Dennis O'Neal for input on water flow; Steve Souza of Princeton Hydro lives near the park and has designed prize winning bio-retention basins elsewhere, including one at Pennswood Village in Newtown; Mr. O'Neal and Dr. Souza have reviewed the project, and Princeton Hydro will design the bio-retention system for Clawson Park; no enlargement of the existing area is expected, but grading will be necessary and will require several days of work to do it; soil will have to be tested and approved and composted, and when the pH level is adequate, planting will be done in the fall.
Mr. Robbi continued: the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) offers matching grants, and one half of the Township's share will be made up with in-kind service (i.e., help from Dick Ginman, Toni Robbi, Boy Scouts, donated materials, etc.); the project will be educational also so the public and school children can learn more about rain gardens and clean water recharge; a resolution of support is requested tonight in time for the April 1st deadline for application, and the Environmental Commission would hear in July if an award is made.
Mr. Tatsch commented on two grant applications, i.e., the bio-retention basin and the conservation easement project. Mr. Robbi explained that ANJEC awards up to $20,000 for projects, and they may look favorably on two smaller projects from our small municipality.
Mr. Martin stated that he and Mr. Robbi have discussed the bio-retention basin, and the DPW might not be able to help with the project, due to budget cuts and increased work responsibilities being undertaken by that department. Mr. Robbi mentioned a meeting with DPW Superintendent Howell and Township Administrator Matheny to discuss the project. Mr. Tatsch also spoke with Mr. Howell, and the DPW has some concerns about mowing suggestions, i.e., less mowing may require physically moving material rather than mulching. Mr. Tatsch felt that items could be worked out, noting that this is a new situation and the DPW will have to "re-think and re-plan" how to maintain the park. Mr. Tatsch agreed that the merits of the project are very good, and he did not want the grant opportunity to slip away because issues are not resolved.
Mr. Robbi suggested that the park committee should discuss the mowing issue. He also stated that the basin would require some mechanical treatment, i.e., invasive species may have to be removed by hand by volunteers (i.e., not by the DPW).
Mr. Martin also commented that the funding would come from the Open Space Trust Fund and have no effect on the tax rate.
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RESOLUTION #57-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that they hereby support the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions matching grant application made by the East Amwell Township Environmental Commission entitled “A Proposal to Prepare Environmental Designs and Plans for a Bioretention Rain Garden at Clawson Park for the East Amwell Township,” and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that an amount up to $2,000.00 is authorized to be taken from the Open Space Trust Fund in 2008 for this project.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously.
Mrs. Cregar asked Mr. Robbi if he knew why four large trucks were dumping material at the park. Mrs. Stahl commented on a berm being constructed near the Ploski property. Mr. Robbi also commented on the berm, stating that it had no impact on the basin.
2) Conservation Easement ANJEC Grant (See 3/13/08 Minutes for Background): Suzanne Parsons was present during this discussion. Ms. Parsons was reviewing the grant application for submission to ANJEC and had some wording changes to include in the resolution, i.e., change the name to Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions, add the word "matching," and add a sentence, "An amount up to $3,000.00 has been approved for this project in the Environmental Commission budget for 2008."
Mr. Tatsch asked Ms. Parsons to give an overview of the project for the benefit of the public. Ms. Parsons explained that the grant will allow for an inventory of conservation easements, which will be put into a database. An intern will be hired, there will be in-kind time involved, and Township staff will be asked to help. Deeds will be scanned into the system. F/LOSPC supports the project, and they have provided their lists of farmland easements to be incorporated in the database. Site reviews will be done with the help of Environmental Commission members; educational information will be prepared; an Environmental webpage will be set up; and at the end of the project, information will be created in GIS form, similar to the F/LOSP map for a visual effect.
Mr. Tatsch commented on new owners who may be violating easements by not knowing about their existence.
An amended resolution for the ANJEC application for the conservation easements was proposed.
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RESOLUTION #58-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that they hereby support the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions matching grant application made by the East Amwell Township Environmental Commission entitled "East Amwell Conservation Easement Inventory," and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that an amount of up to $3,000.00 has been approved for this project in the Environmental Commission budget for 2008.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
AGRICULTURAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
1) 3/20 Request for Resolution of Support of the State Agriculture Development Committee: Ms. Lenox, as Chair of the Agricultural Advisory Committee, explained that the request was actually to oppose the elimination of the Department of Agriculture. Ms. Lenox explained that the Department of Agriculture "is the voice of the farmers" and provides services that the farmers trust. Ms. Lenox asked for the governing body to pass a resolution to keep the Department of Agriculture, and she agreed that the resolution approved by the Hunterdon County Freeholders was a good one. There are also sample resolutions and letters on the New Jersey Farm Bureau website. Ms. Lenox also asked the governing body to request that other Township committees and boards write letters of support to keep the State's Agriculture Department. Additionally, there will be a farmer's rally at the state on April 1, with farmers protesting with horses and tractors.
The governing body agreed that they would offer their support.
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RESOLUTION #59-08
WHEREAS, on February 26, 2008, Governor Jon S. Corzine proposed the FY 2009 New Jersey State Budget; and
WHEREAS, as part of the Budget, Governor Corzine has proposed to eliminate the New Jersey Department of Agriculture as a cost-cutting measure; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Agriculture provides many important services to the almost $ 3.5 billion agricultural industry and the citizens of the state including:
1. Food safety
2. Emergency food distribution to 500,000 residents
3. School nutrition programs (Healthy Choices/Healthy Kids)
4. School lunch programs for 145,000 children statewide
5. Soil/Water conservation, and environmental programs (Green Energy Initiatives for farmers, Garden State Ethanol)
6. Farmland preservation (160,000 acres statewide)
7. Aquaculture (seafood harvesting and distribution)
8. Equine industry, including racing
9. Livestock and poultry disease monitoring (mad cow, avian influenza)
10. Plant pest control (e.g. gypsy moths, Asian longhorn beetle)
11. Commodity promotion (the Jersey Fresh Program)
12. Urban planning and forest protection (Smart Growth Planner’s Toolkit, programs to halt urban forest devastation by the Asian longhorn beetle)
13. Cooperation with academic and research institutions
14. Seed and fertilizer testing
15. Pet food and livestock feed testing
WHEREAS, New Jersey’s diverse agriculture industry (produce, horticulture, livestock, seafood, equine) relies on the services of the Department of Agriculture to remain viable, contributing almost $3.5 Billion to our state economy while also providing jobs, generating sales tax receipts, and maintaining our state’s history and identity as the “Garden State”; and
WHEREAS, NJ Agriculture provides uniquely fresh, healthy food to local communities at a reduced cost to the consumer while utilizing shorter distribution routes than national providers, thus minimizing the environmental damage caused by long distance transportation; and
WHEREAS, the federal Farm Bill of 2007 was named “The Farm
Nutrition and Community Investment Act”
in recognition of the critical role agriculture plays in providing a better
quality of life, as well as feeding our population; and
WHEREAS, the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) within the Department of Agriculture administers the New Jersey Farmland Preservation Program; and
WHEREAS, New Jersey has invested close to $1.1 billion since 1982 to permanently preserve over 160,000 acres of farmland; and
WHEREAS, New Jersey voters have shown overwhelming support for the Farmland Preservation Program; and
WHEREAS, the Hunterdon County Farmland
Preservation Program includes over 271 preserved farms and over 23, 615 acres
permanently preserved.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the East Amwell Township Committee opposes the Governor’s proposal to eliminate the Department of Agriculture and urges the Governor to reconsider his proposal.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be provided to the Hunterdon County Board of Chosen Freeholders; Senator Leonard Lance, Assemblywoman Marcia Karrow, Assemblyman Michael Doherty, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, the State Agriculture Development Committee, every Board of Chosen Freeholders and every County Agriculture Development Board in the State of New Jersey, and all municipalities in Hunterdon County.
By Order of the Township Committee,
_______________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Mrs. Cregar asked where the current responsibilities of the Department of Agriculture will go if that department is eliminated. Ms. Lenox explained that it has not yet been determined where the responsibilities would shift, noting that the Department of Commerce, where she works, is also dissolving. Ms. Lenox stated that some comments were made about the Department of Agriculture's responsibilities being taken over by the Department of Environmental Protection, but nothing is certain at this time.
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to have the Clerk contact that Chairs of the East Amwell Township boards and committees for additional letters of support to keep the NJ Department of Agriculture.
2008 APPOINTMENTS:
1) Environmental Commission Liaison to Recycling Committee: Alice Celebre was appointed to this position by the Township Committee in January; however, the Commission agreed that member Mike Petrus should serve in this role. Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to appoint Mike Petrus as the Environmental Commission Liaison to the Recycling Committee for 2008.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
COAH (AFFORDABLE HOUSING) (See 3/13/08 Minutes for Background): Mrs. Cregar contacted the Town of Clinton for information. A copy of the letter from the 7 Town Group and the resolution in opposition to the current round regulations was provided to the governing body. Additionally, the Township of Clinton provided their 2/14/08 letter and resolution of opposition.
Mr. Tatsch explained that while the Township originally thought that their third round obligation would be 9 or more units, subsequently increased to 12 - 15 units, and finally increased to 74 units based on the new regulations. Municipal Housing Liaison Jim Robbins notes that the significant number is due to the use of faulty development data, and he is currently pleading the Township's case. There was a meeting with COAH representatives a few weeks ago, and they are listening.
The 7 Town Group, which actually has more participation than seven towns, is in opposition to the process, while East Amwell Township is arguing the numbers based on erroneous data. Mr. Tatsch contacted Mr. Robbins by email, and Mr. Robbins felt that the Township could be part of the regulations opposition group even if East Amwell is arguing the numbers separately.
Mr. Tatsch suggested joining the group to indicate that the fundamental regulations for COAH are inappropriate, especially for Hunterdon County, which is a more rural area of the state. Mr. Tatsch commented on the "double or triple whammy" by having small municipalities lose state aid and then be saddled with high COAH numbers. Governing body members all commented favorably on adopting a resolution, similar to the one adopted by the Town of Clinton and West Amwell Township.
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RESOLUTION #60-08
OPPOSING THIRD ROUND AFFORDABLE HOUSING
RULES
WHEREAS, on December 17th, 2007 COAH made public its new proposal for the Third
Round Affordable Housing Rules and these regulations, if adopted, will impose unreasonable requirements upon our municipality; and
WHEREAS, these regulations, if adopted, will have a negative impact upon economic
development within the State of New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, under the new proposal, our municipality is being required to plan for
affordable housing based upon growth which is unlikely to occur, since COAH has used a flawed approach in calculating prospective growth; and
WHEREAS, under the new proposal, the large retroactive obligation will serve to undermine prior compliance efforts, requiring municipal property taxpayers to suffer a higher tax burden; and
WHEREAS, residential development generating such a high growth share obligation will create a shortfall that must be paid by property tax payers, since either the proposed Development fee, or the proposed Payments in lieu are insufficient to pay for municipal construction of units, since the proposal understates construction costs and overstates the average sale price of units; and
WHEREAS, Regional Contribution Agreements, increased to $67,000 per unit with no commensurate funding source, will create a chilling effect upon this statutorily recognized compliance mechanism, which will harm rural, suburban and urban municipalities alike; and
WHEREAS, economic development will be negatively impacted by these aggressive Growth Share ratios, since Payment in lieu, will add over $25 per square foot to the cost of office construction; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that although the East Amwell Township Committee recognizes that Growth Share, as a concept, can work on a prospective basis if the ratios are reasonable and sustainable, it implores the members of the Council, and the COAH staff, to recognize that there is a limit to what municipalities and developers can be called upon to satisfy in terms of an affordable housing obligation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the COAH obligation be greatly modified or reduced in Planning Areas 4 and 5 where there is a lack of employment, public transportation and other necessities that residents of affordable housing would rely on; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the East Amwell Township Committee respectfully asks COAH to reconsider these regulations since, as proposed, they will have a negative impact upon economic development in the Township and in the State as a whole, and will financially over-burden our Township=s property taxpayers; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution be attached to the letter to Commissioner Doria and that the letter and resolution be sent to Senator Leonard Lance, Assemblyman Michael Doherty, Assemblywoman Marcia Karrow, and the Hunterdon County Board of Chosen Freeholders and to surrounding municipalities.
By Order of the Township Committee,
_______________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
A recommendation was made to reach out to the other municipalities to express our interest in participating in their efforts.
NEW BUSINESS
REQUEST FROM KINGWOOD TOWNSHIP FOR SUPPORT OF PRESERVATION OF WESTERN HUNTERDON COUNTY PARK During the agenda review, this item was tabled until the April 24, 2008, meeting. Mr. Tatsch explained that the governing body will be looking for information from F/LOSPC on how the Township's support for this project would affect our request for funding for the Higgins' property.
COAH SPENDING PLAN RESOLUTION
Treasurer Jane Luhrs provided a resolution showing the 2008 COAH Spending Plan, which utilized the $77,543.80 in the developers' fees escrow account as of December 31, 2007. Mr. Tatsch quipped about NJ COAH's erroneous statement at a recent meeting, stating that East Amwell Township had $950,000 in fees.
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RESOLUTION #61-08
East Amwell Township Resolution
Approving Spending of COAH Development Fees Pursuant to
Spending Plan in Fiscal Year 2008
WHEREAS, the Governing Body of East Amwell Township in Hunterdon County prepared and forwarded a Development Fee Ordinance, which was approved by the New Jersey Council on Affordable Housing (COAH); and
WHEREAS, NJAC 5:93-5.1 (c) requires a municipality with an adopted Development Fee Ordinance to prepare a plan to spend development fees; and
WHEREAS, the spending plan was approved by the Township Committee of East Amwell Township and includes the following:
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell has prepared a spending plan and intends to spend money in fiscal year 2008 so that it comports with NJAC 5:93-5.1 (c ) and its spending plan; and
WHEREAS, the Escrow Account for Development Fees administered by the Township of East Amwell has the sum of $77,543.80 as of December 31, 2007.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the governing body of East Amwell Township in Hunterdon County approves the following allocations of money from the
COAH Development Fee Escrow Account, in compliance with its spending plan:
Administrative Costs (no more than 20%) $15,508.76
COAH eligible affordable housing activities
including affordable housing assistance, planning
activity, education and the Women’s Crisis
Center $62,035.04
By Order of the Township Committee
________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
UPDATE ON EAST AMWELL TOWNSHIP SCHOOL AND HUNTERDON CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL BUDGET MEETINGS ON MARCH 19, 2008
The governing body thanked Mr. Martin for his notes provided to them by email. Mr. Martin commented on reductions anticipated, noting that the high school is doing a good job in keeping costs down and sharing services. He also spoke about Readington Township's complaint about their share being too large and their decision not to contribute to the Raritan Township police officer assigned to the high school.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the good meeting at East Amwell Township School, stating that the increase in the budget is 3.5% over last year and is the lowest increase in seven years. East Amwell Township School is also doing a lot of shared services, including child care, special education, and administration.
Mr. Tatsch noted information he obtained about Hunterdon County Business
Partnership, who provides furniture donations to the school. This service is also available to
municipalities, and the Township may be able to obtain used corporate
furniture, which may be suitable to the municipality's needs. He felt that this could also be another
type of shared service.
Mr. Tatsch concluded by stating that it was a good presentation, and while East Amwell Township's budget is a higher increase than in previous years, the East Amwell Township School budget, the Hunterdon Central High School budget, and the Hunterdon County budget are lower, thus affecting a modest increase on the overall tax rate.
SHARED SERVICES MEETING UPDATE
Mr. Tatsch reported on the Hunterdon County Shared Services meeting he attended last night. He spoke about how the state will be viewing municipalities who share services, and Mr. Capabianco, who is the Director of the Shared Services program, is putting together a list of services and items available county-wide. Mr. Tatsch commented on the affect on state aid and grants in the future by municipalities who choose to share services. Mr. Capabianco is tracking calls to his office, and all municipalities are being encouraged to contact him. As an example, one town recently wanted information on cat ordinances, which Mr. Capabianco was able to provide to them at no professional cost.
For the benefit of the governing body and the public, Mrs. Stahl commented on the fact that the East Amwell Township staff has been networking with other municipalities and organizations (including the League of Municipalities) for years on various matters at no cost to the township. Mr. Tatsch commented on the need to be more visible. He also commented on a Morris County shared services organization, which charges $1,000 to join. Hunterdon County Shared Services is in the process of growing.
One possible initiative on a countywide level would be the shared services of an Animal Control Officer (ACO). Mr. Tatsch commented on the expenses the municipality faces with the current ACO arrangement, which may or may not be available next year; he felt that a county ACO might be more cost effective and guaranteed.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Toni Robbi, 144 Lambertville-Hopewell Turnpike, commented on the award of the bid for a park mower earlier tonight; he suggested that it could be used by the school for their property and the soccer fields on the days when the machinery is sitting idle.
Mr. Tatsch commented on recently completing a survey list for the County; he suggested that the new mower could be added to the survey list.
Ralph Lanni, 68 Stony Brook Road, asked about the location of Clawson Park.
Dick Ginman, 125 Mountain Road, commented on initiatives by West Amwell Township and the City of Lambertville on sharing equipment. Mr. Tatsch commented on a meeting today in Lambertville, where both municipalities met with Governor Corzine and Department of Community Affairs Director Doria about shared services initiatives. Mr. Tatsch explained that East Amwell Township was not invited to the meeting. Mr. Ginman commented on West Amwell's exposure since the loss of their state aid.
Ralph Lanni, 68 Stony Brook Road, stated his opinion on the Governor. He felt that the Governor's initiative to have state cuts was a good one, and that lower level governments should follow suit. He commented on state and federal funding and the distance between the representatives and the taxpayers. Mr. Lanni felt that the Township Committee was doing a good job, but he commented on state and federal spending. He concluded that he would like to see the Township Committee "do something different and unique, … like be responsible for our own funding and taxes … and all do the same."
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
Mr. Tatsch commented that he agreed with the comments about the state being in dire straits and that something needs to be done with the budget. He spoke about the state's cut of all state aid to municipalities under 5,000 residents, and only providing half of their aid to municipalities under 10,000 people, while bigger municipalities, such as Newark and Camden only had 7 - 10% decreases. East Amwell Township lost $168,000 in COMPTRA; Newark and Trenton can "patch the hole" with their decreases while East Amwell Township has a bigger burden. Mr. Tatsch stated that "it was painful, but we did it … and made appropriate cuts … to live within our means." He thanked Mr. Lanni for his comments.
Mr. Tatsch concluded by saying that he hoped that the Governor would reconsider his actions. Mr. Tatsch also spoke with Freeholder Ron Sworen, and Mr. Sworen commented that the State Police cannot legally charge for their services. However, the State Police may be adding surcharges to tickets for extra funding and they might charge for services beyond the standard patrol, e.g., parade coverage, etc. Mr. Tatsch still felt that participating in the shared services survey for police coverage was beneficial. He believed that making uniform cuts across the board for all municipalities would be a better plan of action.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented the bills of the evening. Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the bills of the evening.
Treasurer's Resolutions:
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RESOLUTION #62-08
WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Board of Health of the Township of East Amwell that the following witness 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 applicant:
Applicant Amount Refunded
MidAtlantic Equine Center $200.00
By order of the Township Committee,
________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION #63-08
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
Verizon Wireless (Block 18,Lot 18) $701.62
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION #64-08
WHEREAS, certain Capital appropriation ordinances have funding that are no longer necessary;
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 07-07 Reiter $125,000.00 Capital Improvement Fund
Ordinance 07-17 Snow Plow $ 1,831.80 Capital Surplus
By Order of the Township Committee,
________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolutions.
TAX COLLECTOR HYLAND had no resolutions.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mrs. Lenox commended Mrs. Stahl on the letter to Colt's Neck on their COAH initiatives. Mrs. Lenox also commended Municipal Housing Liaison Jim Robbins on the very good and very detailed letter to NJ COAH on the Township's position.
The governing body acknowledged receipt of the speed detector print out, noting one vehicle traveling 70 mph past the grit yard in the Village of Ringoes. Mr. Tatsch noted that the data collected would be used to provide a history of problem traffic areas.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made by Mr. Martin, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 8:55 p.m.
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Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk