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 also in attendance.
In compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act, Municipal Clerk Teresa R. Stahl announced that this is a regularly scheduled meeting, pursuant to the resolution adopted on January 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 January 22, 2008.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
AGENDA REVIEW
Under Administrative Reports from the Treasurer, add the December 2007 Revenue Report and a change in the Bill List on page 8 - corrections are noted on public copies. Under Correspondence, add the following: Copy of 12/27 Letter to Historic Preservation from Hunterdon County Cultural & Heritage Commission re: Grant Funding; 1/22/08 Princeton Hydro Sourland Mountain Watershed Protection Plan as part of the NJ DEP Regional Stormwater Management Grant.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Dates of 2008 Reorganization Meetings for Boards and Committees are posted on the Bulletin Board and are available from the Township Clerk.
B. Christmas trees may be brought to the Township grit yard throughout the month of January. Please remove all trim from trees.
C. There will be a free rabies clinic held on January 26, 2008, from 1 - 4 p.m. at the municipal garage. Licenses, which are due in January, are available at that time. Call Pam Dymek at 908:782-8536 x 10 for details.
D. The Township Committee has scheduled a budget meeting for Wednesday, January 30, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. at the municipal building. The public is invited.
E. The Presidential Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2008, from 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. All polls are located in the municipal building.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
January 10, 2008, Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried unanimously.
January 10, 2008, Executive Minutes (Personnel, Land Acquisition) were approved on a motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously.
January 10, 2008, Special Minutes (Budget) were approved on a motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and carried unanimously.
Committee members commented favorably on the detailed minutes provided.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Comments pertaining to topics not on tonight's agenda (limited to total of 15 minutes)
Lisa Mummey, wife of Dave Mummey, appreciated the Township Committee's consideration of the matter raised by a resident regarding the business in Ringoes. Mrs. Mummey commented on Mr. Mummey's recuperative progress, and she thanked the Committee for their efforts, including receiving a phone call from Mr. Kneski.
Bill Reiter, a member of the Amwell Valley Ringoes Rescue Squad, said he was here to discuss the squad. Mr. Tatsch explained that Tom Steele provided an update at the January 19 budget meeting, and at that time, Mr. Steele advised that he would come back to the Committee during the month of February with a report on financial matters. Mrs. Cregar had previously spoken with Mr. Reiter about the matter, suggesting the item be placed on the agenda for tonight. (For the record, the item was not added to the agenda because Mr. Steele provided an update during the budget meeting, when the squad was invited to discuss their budget.) Mrs. Cregar thanked Mr. Reiter for coming tonight.
David Bausmith, 74 Old York Road, commented on the report in the January 19 minutes, regarding the squad's intent to pursue construction on Route 202. To clarify the record, he stated that the squad is addressing issues within the organization to see if the votes taken were binding. He stated that the members are trying to resolve the issues now. He asked who would be the proper contact to provide information; the Mayor directed Mr. Bausmith to provide information to the Clerk.
Mr. Tatsch advised Mr. Bausmith that the governing body is still considering the squad's budget request, and the governing body needed to understand the financial issues by at least the first week of March in anticipation of adopting the budget after March 11 when state figures are available. Mr. Bausmith commented on "striving to adhere to the rules of the organization and prevailing in that regard."
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Martin, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
PUBLIC HEARINGS/INTRODUCTION
OF ORDINANCES
Public Hearing:
ORDINANCE 08-01: THE 2008 SALARY AND WAGE ORDINANCE
As proof of publication, Mrs. Stahl presented the January 10, 2008, legal notice from the Hunterdon County Democrat. The ordinance has been posted and available to the public since introduction on January 3, 2008.
Motion by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously to open to the public.
There being no comments from the public, motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried to close to the public.
Mrs. Stahl advised that if adopted, there should be a correction under the title of CFO/Treasurer, i.e., this employee is not the Purchasing Agent. Motion by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Mr. Martin, and carried unanimously by roll call vote to adopt Ordinance 08-01, with the title of Purchasing Agent deleted: Mr. Martin, yes; Mr. Kneski, yes; Mrs. Cregar, yes; Ms. Lenox, yes; Mr. Tatsch, yes.
Introduction of Ordinances
- None
SPECIAL DISCUSSION
COAH (AFFORDABLE HOUSING):
1) Changes in Obligations and Increased Work Duties for the COAH Municipal Housing Liaison. Mr. Tatsch commented the changes in COAH requirements, providing information on previous calculations, which have been doubled. The new figures are based on housing construction, population, and commercial figures based on the years from 2004-2006, when markets were in full speed. The plan also incorporates "spill over of credits" from other municipalities and Google Earth maps looking at open spaces to assess areas where houses could be built (not taking into account environmental and other concerns). The previous figures given to the municipality were 10-12 credits, and a methodology of meeting the obligations was being considered. However, new figures may be as high as 74 credits, based on incorrect population and commercial assumptions. Mr. Tatsch stated factually that the municipality would never return to the 12 credit figure, but he wished the municipality aggressively fight to reduce the obligation to at least 24 credits over the next decade. Mr. Tatsch, Mr. Matheny, and COAH Municipal Housing Liaison Jim Robbins have met to discuss the matter. Mr. Tatsch said that housing units are not appropriate for the municipality, nor are four-story units for specific housing needs; Regional Contribution Agreements (RCAs) might also be considered. He further stated that the Township might want to consider a lawsuit to challenge the calculated figures.
Mr. Tatsch continued by stating that there have not been many comments about the new figures, although all municipalities will have to handle their obligations, and he anticipated "an outrage throughout the state." He also commented about the Google Earth maps, which did not take into consideration zoning and the Township's 40% protected farmland and open space.
Mr. Robbins will be attending a COAH public hearing on February 5 in Hunterdon County, and he will be aggressive in his discussions. Mr. Robbins has previous experience as a Deputy Mayor in his hometown, and he also has a private consulting business and is well versed in federal and state housing matters. Mr. Robbins’ direction is to make it clear that the municipality will not compromise with 50 units, if that is what is offered.
In light of the anticipated COAH units, there will be a need to address the developer's fees collected by the municipality, and a change in the ordinance may be necessary. The ordinance can be used to pay for COAH expenses, including the salary for the Municipal Housing Liaison, and currently, the municipality may not be picking up all possible opportunities to collect the fee.
Mr. Kneski reviewed some historical data provided by the Clerk, and he referenced a letter from former Office Administrator Karl Posselt to Construction Official Stew Doddy about fee collection. Mr. Kneski also noted changes by the NJ Department of Community Affairs which now places the responsibility of fee collection with the Construction Official to be collected at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy (CO). Mr. Kneski will continue to research this topic and see how money is collected now and determine what, if any fees, were collected last year. Mr. Kneski also noted that fees could be assessed for, as an example, a pole barn or riding rink, i.e., funding would be collected although the development would not tie into housing obligation figures.
Mr. Tatsch stated that negotiations have been on-going with Easter Seals for a group home, which will meet one-half of the original credits assigned to the municipality. He stated that negotiations would continue since "it is the right thing to do," and the credits would still be used for the new round.
Mr. Robbins workload will increase due to the issues at hand, and his current salary of $8,320 is based on a ten hour week. There may be an increase in his time to address the municipalities concerns. Mr. Matheny spoke with Treasurer Luhrs about this, and an amendment to the Salary and Wage ordinance could be made. After the public meeting at the beginning of February, Mr. Robbins will be better able to assess the amount of time he will need to perform his job. Mr. Matheny spoke about responsibilities Mr. Robbins may be asked to perform in his efforts to reduce the obligation, i.e., become a lobbyist to compel the state to reduce numbers based on our open space/farmland property, no sewers or water, population, etc. A decision to increase Mr. Robbins hours from 10 per week to 12 - 15 per week will be addressed, with the expectation that the Salary and Wage ordinance will be amended for a possible salary increase up to $4,000.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS -
None
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
APPOINTMENT OF ADDITIONAL 2008 BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Mr. Tatsch spoke about the interview of Kevin Ostrander earlier this evening, noting that while interviewed for Recreation or Recycling Committees, Mr. Ostrander's experience was more relevant to the Recycling Committee. Additionally, the Recreation Committee does have other candidates to consider. Mr. Martin and Mr. Kneski agreed that Mr. Ostrander's background was more suitable for Recycling. Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried unanimously to appoint Kevin Ostrander to the Recycling Committee, filling the vacated seat of Kendra Schroeder.
Other vacancies on boards are still being considered.
BOARD OF HEALTH:
1) Meszaros Property, 1/14/08 EDA HDSRF Closing Instructions: Mrs. Stahl is waiting for further information from EDA and from Local Public Contracts on the contract agreement. Additionally, there is information required from Attorney Cushing, which may be discussed at the next meeting with him. The item was tabled until the next meeting.
PLANNING BOARD
1) Resolution to Authorize Letter to Realtors about Disclosure (See 1/10/08 minutes for background): Mr. Tatsch provided factual information on the reasons behind the letter to be sent to realtors, particularly in the Sourland Mountain Zone, to prevent forest clearing due to ignorance. A cover letter will be sent to realtors with a notice for interested buyers along with the fact sheet on Sourland Mountain zone regulations. The second part of the process will be the adoption of an ordinance, which is still being revised and discussed.
The proposed letter will be signed by the Mayor and given to realtors of property (either land or house) in East Amwell to distribute to their agents. Planning Board member Michael Weis has already talked with realtors about this, and they are receptive. Mr. Kneski gave his full concurrence of sending the letter, which he reviewed, and he commented that it was always subject to modification, if warranted, in the future. Mr. Martin asked if there could be a phone number with an extension for interested parties to get further information. The suggestion was made to add Maria Andrews' extension to reach her as the Planning Board/Board of Adjustment Administrative Officer.
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RESOLUTION #27-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, that they hereby authorize the Mayor to sign the realtor's disclosure letter, as written, to be provided to realtors of East Amwell Township property to be distributed to their agents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the cover letter, letter to property owners, and the Sourland Mountain information sheet be distributed at this time.
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
RECYCLING COMMITTEE
1) 2008 Annual Clean Up Day: The Township Committee acknowledged the letter from Recycling Coordinator Joyce Corboy that the Recycling Committee has scheduled their annual clean up day for Saturday, April 26, 2008.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR'S UPDATE
1) 2008 Resolution Correction: Mr. Matheny commented on the correction to the benefits resolution. The correct number of days for accruement of sick leave should read 35 days, not 30, as was approved by the governing body in 2007.
2) 2008 Contract for Vital Communications: Mr. Matheny explained that the Tax Assessor and Tax Collector will remain on this data-base program; the NJ PAMS program is not yet in operation.
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RESOLUTION
#28-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the
Township of East Amwell that the Mayor be hereby authorized to sign the 2008
agreement with Vital Communications to provide services, as outlined in the
contract of January 11, 2008.
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C.
Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Martin, and carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
3) Amwell Valley Little Bigger League Annual Agreement: Mr. Matheny noted that the Clerk provided him with last year's contract for review prior to sending to the League for signature. He suggested that wording be added to the contract to make sure that the League follows the Township Employee Policy Manual and handbook to cover a variety of areas.
4) Speed Detector Sign and Trailer: The equipment has been ordered and will be delivered in 55 days. Mr. Kneski asked if we could continue to use the borrowed equipment; Mr. Matheny said that the equipment has moved elsewhere.
Mr. Matheny met today with NJ State Police/Kingwood Barracks Station Commander Bruce Skelton. He believes that the data collected will be beneficial in determining where and when to patrol specific areas.
5) Spring Hill Road Update: Mr. Matheny has spoken with Engineer Dennis O'Neal about this three year old project for road improvements in which Montgomery Township is the lead agency. The intent was to go out for bid in February or March 2008. East Amwell is the border road with Montgomery Township for the majority of the road, and with Hillsborough Township for a small section from Zion Road to Burd Lane. Hillsborough Township is not interested in contributing to the project, which would be about 685 feet of East Amwell's border. The cost to East Amwell Township to do the complete section would be approximately $44,000. Mr. Matheny contacted the Township Administrator Kevin Davis in Hillsborough about this matter, and Mr. Davis was unaware of the project or any funding commitments. Mr. O'Neal outlined several options, including having East Amwell pay for the full stretch of the East Amwell/Hillsborough section, just completing the section opposite Montgomery Township and filling in potholes in the other section, among other items. Mr. Matheny will keep the Township aware of the situation.
Mr. Tatsch commented that the road may have been in better condition if it had been tar and chipped in the past. Mr. Matheny stated that the road had major drainage problems, which was why the road was redesigned and not just over-layed.
6) Resident Complaint re: Dave's Sunoco: Committee members briefly referenced Mrs. Mummey's appearance during the Open to the Public portion of the meeting earlier this evening. Mr. Kneski commented on his meeting with Mr. Matheny and Zoning Officer McManus to resolve issues and establish a time frame as soon as possible. Mr. Kneski also spoke with the complainant and he was receptive to the process to be followed. Mr. Kneski also spoke with Mrs. Mummey, and he will be contacting her again soon to set up a site visit, discuss solutions, and set up a time frame for action. All were in favor of the suggested approach.
A suggestion was made to write a letter to Mr. Carmen to advise him that action is progressing; Mr. Kneski will provide some bullet-points for the letter.
2008 TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE LIAISONS
Mr. Tatsch commented on providing a suggested list of assignments at the last meeting, which the governing body was asked to review. Some additional changes were made this evening: The Zoning Officer will move from Mrs. Cregar to Mr. Kneski's assignment; the website will move from Mr. Tatsch to Mr. Martin's assignment to complement his work on the email updates; while not listed on the assignment sheet, any questions on aerobatic airplanes will be directed to Mr. Tatsch for his assistance. The revised list, as discussed this evening, will be published on the website, put on the bulletin board, provided with the volunteer's memo, and circulated as necessary. There was a consensus of opinion that the revisions discussed were satisfactory and ready for release.
2008 VOLUNTEER MEMO
Mr. Tatsch provided an updated version of the memo on January 9, 2008, which was reviewed by the Township Administrator and the Treasurer with no recommended changes. The governing body members also reviewed the draft and were satisfied. The memo will be printed in final form with the corrections noted, and it will be provided to Board and Committee secretaries/administrators to copy for their members.
2008 TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING DATE CORRECTION
Mrs. Stahl asked the governing body to approve a resolution to change the
second meeting in November 2008 from November 18 to November 25, 2008, which
was the Tuesday before the fourth Thursday (Thanksgiving) in November.
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RESOLUTION #29-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that Resolution #01-08, adopted January 3, 2008, be hereby amended to change the second meeting in November from November 18 to the correct date of November 25, 2008, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that notice of this change be published in the January 31, 2008, issue of the Hunterdon County Democrat.
By Order of the Township Committee,
_________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was unanimously carried to approve the resolution.
GYPSY MOTH SUPPRESSION TREATMENT MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
Mrs. Stahl commented on attending the recent state meeting along with Environmental Commission Member Frank Clair and East Amwell School representative Norman Matthews. The intent is to treat a strip of 83 acres (double application) on Wagner Road, which is a bordering road with Delaware Township; Delaware Township is also treating their side. There are specific requirements, one of which is to approve a resolution at a publicly advertised meeting. In light of deadlines, Mrs. Stahl recommended advertising the meeting and discussing the matter at the February 7, 2008, meeting.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the investigation by the State Department, and he noted that the governing body put over $6,000 in the budget for treatment. He felt that the public meeting should go on.
Mr. Martin asked who was promoting the treatment program since the Board of Health previously discussed not treating. Some discussion took place, with the following highlights: the original request for an egg count came from residents on Cider Mill Road; the State did visit the site after the request and determined that although there was devastation, the area was not large enough to spray (i.e., the property must be at least 40 acres for proper aerial treatment); residents were provided with guidance on other options to follow; the Township Committee did request an ground egg-count, which was done in 2007; the State determined that there was one section in East Amwell (i.e., Wagner Road), which would qualify for treatment; the Township Committee did go on record at the end of 2007 asking to participate in the 2008 program; the Environmental Commission has also supported the treatment; some members agreed that they were not proponents of spraying, but the use of the BTK, a non-toxic substance, would be appropriate; Mr. Kneski spoke about spraying done in the 1980's in Princeton, which was satisfactory; Mr. Tatsch also noted problems with infestation in the 1970's; Mr. Martin raised the concern of treating, which does not discriminate between all types of caterpillars; the treatment would take place between May 12 and June 12, according to State directions; among other items.
Mrs. Stahl will provide Mr. Martin with the contact information of Joe Zoltowski at the NJ State Department of Agriculture to obtain further information. The public hearing will be noticed for February 7, 2008, at the regular Township Committee meeting.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to open to the public.
Dante DiPirro, owner of property on Snydertown Road, spoke about the earlier discussion on COAH obligations. He was supportive of the governing body's comments, and he urged the Township Committee to be proactive to have an effect on COAH numbers. Mr. DiPirro noted that the numbers are in the preliminary stage, and it would be important and cost effective to influence the numbers before formal adoption and before litigation. Mr. DiPirro spoke about existing resources, including digital data, NJ DEP information on preserved land, wetlands, environmental features, infra-structure information (i.e., no water or sewer lines and use of wells) which affect density. Mr. DiPirro also recommended looking to the NJ Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for historical building trends, showing not much development in the municipality because of environmental constraints. Mr. DiPirro commended the Township Committee for their pro-active approach to protect the character of the community. He also suggested that it would be beneficial to use the attorney and any other COAH expert before the numbers are ratified.
Mr. DiPirro also noted that a lawsuit by municipalities in the state may be an option. Comments were also made about pending legislation to abolish RCA's, an option which East Amwell Township might consider. Discussing issues with the NJ DEP and NJ DCA Commissioners might be helpful to make sure that any buildings do not cause environmental degradation or other building problems. Mr. DiPirro concluded by thanking the governing body for their aggressive approach to protect the quality of life in the municipality.
Mr. Tatsch noted that RCAs are available but may be disappearing with the prices starting at $67,000. He commented on the potential to have RCAs with areas such as Lambertville for possible senior housing, which he felt would make sense. He concluded that the municipality would be looking at all options.
Andrea Bonette, 17 Ridge Road, commented on attending a meeting earlier and hearing the Mayor of Hopewell Township state that their municipality has a COAH figure of 1200 units. She noted that East Amwell's open space plan might be useful in arguing their 74 unit obligation. Mrs. Bonette commented on obtaining information from Glorianne Robbi, who was instrumental in obtaining the Township's first certification, and she commented on Barbara Wolfe's opinion that it was unsuitable to build near preserved land, concluding that "it was very complicated." Mrs. Bonette also provided development trend information from census figures from 1990 - 2004, with Montgomery Township having a 225% population increase while East Amwell Township had only a 5% increase. Mrs. Bonette also commented that it was unfortunate that Mr. Ginman resigned from the COAH Committee.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the huge problem to address with the intent to lower the number and meet the obligations in innovative ways. He explained how COAH derived the figures (e.g., 2004-06 inflated building figures as a baseline, 2007 plunge in development, open space satellite pictures, inflated numbers for employment figures, etc.). Mr. Tatsch stated that Municipal Housing Liaison Robbins is working diligently on this matter. Ms. Lenox also spoke about the disconnect between State agencies, such as the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC), DEP, DCA, and COAH.
Mrs. Bonette referenced the January 19, 2008, budget minutes regarding no collection of developer's fees in 2007, and she asked how this was possible, giving the example of the Crisifulli farm building for collection purposes. Ms. Lenox stated that the building is not yet completed. Some discussion took place on collection of fees, reiterating some of the discussion which took place earlier in the meeting regarding improved methods of collecting the fee to meet the municipality's needs. It was noted that applicants are advised when they get their construction permits that they may be responsible for the fee at the time of CO.
Mrs. Bonette asked about the current COAH committee, suggesting the appointment of a Planning Board member, which was past practice. Some discussion took place about this, noting that Mr. Robbins would welcome assistance with an ad hoc committee of one or two people (although not an "un-wielding" number of people) who are familiar with the state process and land use. Comments were made about the recent report and Mr. Robbins' efforts on behalf of the Township to reduce their obligation.
Mrs. Bonette commented on the heavy truck traffic task force, noting that she was involved in this matter when she was on the Township Committee. Mr. Tatsch and Ms. Lenox will be attending the meeting in Ewing on February 6. Mrs. Bonette suggested that they look for a better definition of local deliveries when discussing the issues.
Mrs. Bonette commented again on the January 19, 2008, budget minutes regarding paving Stony Brook Road and a reference to widening the road to 20 feet. She reminded the Committee that the road has boulders and the Master Plan requires an 18-foot width. Mrs. Bonette was advised that the 20 foot reference did not pertain to the discussion on Stony Brook Road. Mr. Tatsch drove along Stony Brook Road after the budget meeting; he felt that it would be appropriate to consider road repairs for Stony Brook in the future, but for now, the road is in good shape except for some potholes. Ms. Lenox also drove the road and she would not like to see it paved at all. Mrs. Bonette commented on remarks she has heard from residents on Stony Brook Road debating a paved or not paved road.
Mrs. Bonette commented favorably on the new chairs on the dais.
Mrs. Bonette referenced the new contract for the Township Administrator and minutes wherein the Mayor did not think it was within the Administrator's time to meet with department heads to discuss their budgets. She stated that the contract read "a minimum of 20 hours." Mr. Tatsch stated that upon review of Mr. Matheny's time cards, he is actually working sometimes between 24-25 hours a week. Mrs. Bonette supported allocating Mr. Matheny's time appropriately.
Mrs. Bonette asked if there was a Township policy about Township employees who work for other municipalities, do other work in the East Amwell municipal building, and use the postage meter. Mrs. Bonette stated that she was specifically not referring to employee Jane Luhrs.
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Martin, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
RESOLUTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION
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RESOLUTION #30-08
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 security issues and to discuss terms and conditions for an employee; and
WHEREAS, minutes will be kept and once the matter involving the confidentiality of the above no longer requires that confidentiality, then minutes can be made public;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the public be excluded from this meeting.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Martin, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution to enter executive session at 9:05 p.m.
The regular session resumed at 9:55 p.m.
AUTHORIZATION TO ATTEND LOCAL PUBLIC PURCHASING COURSE
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to authorize the expenditure for Township Administrator Timothy Matheny to start the courses necessary to become a Qualified Purchasing Agent (QPA). Committee members commented that it will be beneficial to the township to have a QPA.
NEW BUSINESS - None
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented the bills of the evening, statement of cash on hand, and revenue reports.
Treasurer's Resolutions:
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RESOLUTION #31-08
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-58 permits appropriation transfers during the first three months of the succeeding fiscal year between line items of the municipal budget, and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that certain line items are in excess of the sums needed and certain line items have insufficient funds to complete the operation of the fiscal year,
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 sums be transferred as follows:
From To
Planning Board:
Salaries & wages $1,000.00
Planning Board:
Other expenses $1,000.00
Total $1,000.00 $1,000.00
By Order of the Township Committee,
_________________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION #32-08
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
Charles Dahler $200.00
By order of the Township Committee,
________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolutions.
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried unanimously to approve the bills of the evening.
TAX COLLECTOR HYLAND presented the 2007 Annual Report, as will be attached to the original set of minutes.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mr. Tatsch asked that the resolution in support of Read Across America Day be considered.
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RESOLUTION #33-08
WHEREAS, the citizens of East Amwell Township stand firmly committed to the promoting of reading as a catalyst for our students’ future academic success, their preparation for America’s jobs of the future, and their ability to compete in a global economy; and
WHEREAS, East Amwell Township has provided significant leadership in the area of community involvement in the education of our youth, grounded in the principal that that educational investment is the key to the community’s well-being and long-term quality of life; and
WHEREAS, NEA’S Read Across America, a national celebration of reading, will be conducted on March 3, 2008, which would have been the 104rd birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss; and
WHEREAS, Read Across America-NJ is being conducted statewide by the New Jersey Education Association, in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, the New Jersey Library Association, Saturn-UAW, and their local affiliates across the state to promote reading and adult involvement in the education of our community’s students:
NOW, THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell calls on the citizens of East Amwell Township to assure that every child is in a safe place reading together with a caring adult on March 3, 2008;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this body enthusiastically endorses NEA’S Read Across America and Read Across America-NJ, and recommits our community to engage in programs and activities to make America’s children the best readers in the world.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously.
Mrs. Cregar commented favorably on the $1,000 grant from the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission to the East Amwell Township Historic Preservation Committee.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
________________________________
Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk