A special meeting of the East Amwell Township Committee came to order at 7:00 PM. Present were Mayor Larry Tatsch, Deputy Mayor Linda Lenox, and Committee members Patricia Cregar and Peter Kneski. Committee member Timothy Martin was absent. Township Administrator Timothy Matheny and Treasurer/CFO were also in attendance.

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 January 11, 2008. The purpose of this meeting is to meet with the CFO/Treasurer and the Township Administrator to discuss the 2008 Budget.

The public is invited to attend and comment. Action may or may not be taken.

Mrs. Luhrs provided two new packets of information: 1) changes made to the budget based on the January 19, 2008, meeting, with a reduction of $20,500 in operating expenses, and additional requests from Historic Preservation ($818), Senior Citizens ($500), and Municipal Court Other Expenses ($1,550). 2) Under Capital Appropriations, there was a January 30 memo from DPW Superintendent Howell about changes in materials, and Mrs. Luhrs adjusted the capital budget sheet, based on the January 19, 2008, meeting, noting that to fully fund road projects, it would cost $250,000. Mr. Tatsch explained the request for a different type of blacktop material, i.e., MABC is a courser stone than FABC but will be suitable for the work at a significant cost reduction. Mr. Kneski also commented on the benefits of a courser stone with respect to winter traffic.

Three Departments were invited to this evening's meeting: Farmland/Open Space Preservation; Historic Preservation, and the Environmental Commission.

Farmland/Open Space Preservation Committee (F/OSPC): Present for this discussion were Administrator Judy Conard, Chairwoman Glorianne Robbi, and Vice Chairman Dick Ginman.

Mrs. Conard referenced their 2008 Capital Budget sheet, outlining the following:

1) Possible closings include Fisher and Hay at an estimated cost of $214,440, and the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) would like to close by June 2008. Geils property would probably not close this year since there are still on-going issues with the values Mr. Geils would like to receive.

2) The costs sheet was detailed with lot line and survey charges for Scibilia, appraisal costs and attorney fees for others, which totaled $40,500. Some discussion took place about the Scibilia lot line change, and Mr. Kneski provided factual information from the Board of Adjustment wherein the property owner was given one year (through June 2008) to complete the boundary line adjustment or Princeton Hydro, who is renting the property, will have to vacate. Mrs. Conard provided factual information on the decision made by the previous Township Committee to pay the costs for the lot line adjustment in an attempt to obtain state reimbursement, which is approximately $196,800 at this time. SADC requires a new survey of the property, and there have been some questions about ownership of the property, which must be resolved. Mr. Kneski again noted that a survey was a requirement of the Board of Adjustment, which the property owner was given as a condition of approval. F/OSPC members noted that there have been close to $80,000 in expenses with this property, and there is no resolution yet. Mrs. Robbi stated that the Township made the commitment to go forth in an effort to get state reimbursement. Mr. Kneski commented that he did not want to see a duplicate cost for surveys.

3) Perkovich property on Rynearson Road may be offered in 2008 as a fee simple purchase, and discussions are taking place with Agricultural Land Trust, which is a part of Farm Bureau, as their first priority project. F/OSPC members spoke about the property in terms of size, proximity to other preserved land, excellent soils, etc.

4) Higgins property was discussed at a previous Township Committee meeting. F/OSPC may be applying to Green Acres for additional funding and matching the funding also. It was unclear whether closing would be in 2008 or 2009; if a 2008 closing was considered, East Amwell would need to have a third of the $1,000,000 in 2008, i.e., an installment of $333,000.00.

5) Reimbursements in 2008 are expected for the Scibilia property in the amount of $196,800.

6) Green Acres funds still remaining amount to $115,101.32, and D & R Greenway Land Trust may be asking for a cost share on a project in the future. While the money was previously earmarked for the Handler property, D & R Greenway Land Trust purchased the property outright.

Mrs. Luhrs recommended that the governing body invite Bond Counsel Andrea Kahn to meet with them to discuss installment payments for the Higgins property and to discuss the Clawson House and other bonding issues. Mrs. Luhrs commented on needing to make a down payment of 5% for bonds; Mr. Tatsch commented on interest obtained on bond funding, while Mrs. Luhrs also noted that rates are dropping.

Mr. Ginman commented that he did not see any capital budget requests from the Recreation Committee for property, and some discussion took place on looking for sites in the past which did not "pan out." Mr. Ginman recommended thinking about future recreational needs and funding options.

Mr. Tatsch commented on the recent presentation by New Jersey Conservation Foundation (NJCF) on the Higgins property, and he was in favor of fund-raising opportunities. Discussion included the following highlights: NJCF is the lead agency, and they have not done much fund-raising; information on fund-raising could be obtained from D & R Greenway Land Trust; fund-raising would tie into community spirit and presence in the process; NJCF will be holding a site visit at the property in the future; reference was made to existing trails on site, hunting activities, and other physical attributes; everyone present was supportive of the intent to acquire the property; Mr. Tatsch asked about bonding for the property now and having the acquisition not materialize - he was advised that funding would not be necessary until closing (similar to the closing for the Omick property with multiple closings at one time).

Mrs. Robbi and Mr. Ginman commented on a recent Hunterdon County meeting wherein the County urged municipalities to notify the County about preservation plans, such as the intent to preserve the Higgins property. While NJCF is the lead agency, the proposed intent is to include a number of municipalities and counties, including Hunterdon County. A suggestion was made to have Mayor Tatsch contact Freeholder Ron Sworen and provide him with important factual information on the preservation plans. Mr. Tatsch asked that F/OSPC provide him with appropriate information. All agreed that the acquisition of the Higgins property did meet all the goals of Hunterdon County's preservation plan, including leveraging funding, multiple use, contiguous property with other preserved land, and located in a bio-region.

Discussion took place on what funding F/OSPC would be looking for this year and where funding would be sought. Discussion took place about the use of the Open Space Trust Fund, noting that the fund was not used for debt last year, although it was used for down payments. The funding can be used for historic, recreation, and open space purposes. Mrs. Luhrs commented on the Open Space Tax, anticipating that the fund will have $300,000 coming in this year, with approximately $250,000 in funding requests now. Mr. Tatsch asked where Higgins would be funded; Mrs. Luhrs said that the municipality could consider bonding.

Mr. Ginman stated that the budget provided this evening only included properties of which F/OSPC was aware, and other properties may come to light. Mrs. Robbi explained that F/OSPC will be holding an outreach meeting for farmers in March, with information being provided on farmland preservation, Green Acres, and non-profit groups. Some discussion took place about getting reimbursement from the County and on reducing the reserve for debt service with a potential to deplete the fund overtime. The possibility of using the remaining Green Acres funding towards the acquisition of the Higgins property was mentioned; there is currently no deadline to use the Green Acre funding, but if the funding is not used, it could be lost. A suggestion was made to contact Catherine Drake at Green Acres about their interest in the Higgins property. Mr. Tatsch asked if it was possible to hold the funding in an escrow fashion for the Higgins' property.

Mrs. Conard reiterated that the Fisher and Hay properties would likely close by June 2008, which is in line with SADC requirements.

Mr. Ginman commented on the Environmental Commission's request for matching grant funding for an easement inventory, stating that F/OSPC is supportive of this request and believes that it should be a high priority. Using the Open Space Tax Fund for the match was suggested. Mrs. Luhrs explained that the Township Committee must develop an Open Space Tax spending plan, which is adopted along with the budget each year. The fund may be used for open space, historic, and recreational uses, and it might be used for inventorying the easements. Mrs. Luhrs also noted that the money could be used for costs associated with the Meszaros property. Mr. Ginman and Mrs. Robbi commented favorably on the development of the easement inventory; Environmental Commission members have considered hiring someone to do the work, and once it has been completed, new easements could be added, and stewardship of easements would be the next step.

Mr. Tatsch stated that budget costs for the Meszaros property were "the unknown card." He provided information on the ownership and location of the three lots. D & R Greenway Land Trust is interested in the property, and negotiations are on going. Green Acres appraisals will be required, and Mr. Tatsch provided anecdotal information on a meeting with Green Acres representatives a few years ago, who were interested in sites such as this one. Some comments were made about the availability of and competition for funding from Green Acres at this time.

Mr. Ginman and Mrs. Conard commented on the Geils property, noting that the property may not require funding until 2009.

Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to open to the public for comments.

Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, asked if F/OSPC was talking about purchasing properties outright or buying development rights. It was noted that the intent is to acquire the Higgins property as a fee simple acquisition in which NJCF would be the lead agency. The property would be open for public access and NJCF would provide care-taker and management responsibilities. The acquisition would be a joint venture by Hillsborough, East Amwell, Hunterdon County, Somerset County, and some non-profits. Ms. Gavigan commented on the possibility of parties and other events taking place on the property if it was not monitored.

Other properties were mentioned, including the Meszaros property, which might become a Green Acres acquisition, the Fisher and Hay properties with farmland easements being purchased, and the Perkovich property as a sale of their property and a resale of preserved land.

Some discussion took place on long term debt service. Mrs. Luhrs explained that it was better to go short term with funding of less than $2,000,000, since the costs for long term bonding is very expensive. Ms. Gavigan stated that while not opposed to preservation, she was concerned with the fact that cumulative debt was being spread out for a long time. Mrs. Luhrs explained that the Township pays down its debt prudently within a timely fashion, explaining that one of their long term projects will be paid in full this year. Mrs. Luhrs explained that 95% of the Township's debt is long term, stating that there is $1,000,000 in short term debt, which the governing body will decide on whether to pay down with funding reimbursed by the state for the Reiter property.

Ms. Gavigan commented on the Township's Master Plan to manage debt and meet the long-term goals for recreation. Mr. Tatsch commented that the Township will be restructuring its debt in the near future. Mrs. Luhrs commented on managing debt very well in the past ten years, and she stated that the Township Committee is as prudent as possible in their financial responsibilities.

Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.

Historic Preservation Committee: Present for this discussion were Chairwoman Kat Cannelongo, and members Mary Van Horn, David Harding, and Frances Gavigan.

The Committee had presented a revised budget request, which was reviewed in detail. The Committee is looking for secretarial services with a proposed budget of $700.00. Mrs. Stahl has been serving as secretary in the interim, and there are some other employees who may be interested in the position when it is posted. The Committee is also looking for a college intern from The College of New Jersey, who will provide assistance in archiving historic materials; the budget is $500.00, and there is a $500 donation in a trust account, which will be used to pay this expense. The 2008 Design Award Competition will be expanded this year and the total budget (including the ceremony) will be $1286.00. Notices will be sent out early about the contest, and it will be advertised on WDRV, in the newspapers, and in the VIP, as well as other places.

The Historic Program Series was discussed, noting that the intent is to include presentations by Jim Davidson, a bus tour in the fall, and a cemetery tour along with house and barn tours. Banners will be purchased and hung to announce the program series. A poster contest at the school will be held, and $25 bonds will be presented as prizes. Ms. Cannelongo commented on receiving a $1,000 grant from the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission, which will be used to offset some expenses of this series.

The Historic Preservation Committee was looking to get a laptop computer and software for scanning and cataloging historic items. Discussion took place with the following highlights: the Committee will be setting up an office in the basement; phone and computer wiring will be installed shortly; there are other computers in the office, which are being replaced, and the Historic Preservation Committee may be able to use one of these rather than getting a laptop this year; it was agreed that $1200 for the laptop will be removed from the budget. There is a $2,000 grant from Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission for electronic preservation and encapsulation of the Quick Collection.

The Committee received a matching grant a few years ago from Hunterdon County to publish a book on Ringoes History, and member Jennifer Floyd is getting a price on publication. Additionally, the Committee would again like to publish the Historic Preservation Calendar in 2009, noting that residents were very pleased to receive it in the past. Comments were exchanged about how the calendar was distributed in the past, i.e., the Township Committee mailed it to residents and had some available in the municipal building.

Mrs. Cregar asked the Committee what their budget was last year; it was $2,000. The requested budget for 2008 is $4,818.00. Mr. Tatsch commented on the very aggressive plans this year, and he asked if the Committee felt that they could accomplish all of their goals. He commented that he was very pleased with the work Historic Preservation has done and the importance of history in East Amwell Township; however, he asked that the members prioritize their budget requests. The members agreed that they would be able to work with a desktop computer, if necessary, thus reducing the budget to $3,618.00.

Ms. Cannelongo commented that she will be applying for more grants from the New Jersey Conference of Humanities, and the Committee is looking at grants for the Clawson House. Mr. Kneski spoke about the competition for grants, and Ms. Cannelongo provided specific information on the dates for some of the grants.

Ms. Lenox asked about the cost for the plaques for the Design Award program, and Ms. Cannelongo provided information on past estimates. The cost of $152 and shipping was the lowest price possible. Ms. Cannelongo commented on asking the Amwell Valley Business Association about sponsoring the event last year; she will ask them again this year. Ms. Gavigan spoke about purchasing multiple plaques in one year, and if not used, they would not have to purchased next year, thus reducing next year's budget.

Mr. Matheny commented on the aggressive grant seeking being done by the Committee, and he cautioned the Committee on their attempts at fund-raising and asking for donations. He explained that there are certain regulations, which municipal entities must follow, including having donations put into trusts. Members will speak with Mrs. Luhrs about requirements.

The governing body thanked Historic Preservation Committee members for their presentation, and there was a consensus of opinion that the operating budget will remain at $3,618.00 and a desktop computer will be located for them to use.

Environmental Commission: Chairwoman Dee Kellogg was present during this discussion. Ms. Kellogg explained that the Environmental Commission is very active, including having Alice Celebre working on solar initiatives for the Township Building and the school. Toni Robbi and Mike Petrus are working on a wetlands project at Clawson Park. Sue Parsons, Laura Lewis, and Ms. Kellogg are working on a $5,000 matching grant from the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) to identify conservation and environmental easements. The Commission considered hiring a title search agency to do the work, but reconsidered and will rely on volunteers or possibly an Environmental Science student from Rutgers at a reduced cost. The work will involve looking at all deeds and scanning the easement language. Mr. Tatsch asked if the match had to be $5,000; Ms. Kellogg said no, but she also noted that ANJEC will include in-kind service as a match.

The remainder of the Environmental Commission budget was reviewed, including additional funding for water sampling and quality analyses for wells tested after road salt applications. The increase was up from $5,000 as the actual and $3,972 as the modified 2007 budget up to $5,500 in 2008 with the addition of the $5,000 for the ANJEC grant match. Ms. Kellogg agreed that the match for the easement project could be reduced to $2,500 or $3,000 and work could continue in future years.

Mr. Kneski asked about the plants being proposed for the Clawson Park wetlands area, which was included in the Environmental Commission's operating budget. Some discussion followed, with Mrs. Luhrs stating that this could be a capital expense if it met the criteria. Ms. Kellogg provided some specifics about the development of the wetlands area in retention ponds with input from the Engineer. A recommendation was made to have the Environmental Commission prepare a proposal with the estimate of $500 to be put into the capital budget.

Frances Gavigan, in the audience, asked about the proposed development at Clawson Park, and Ms. Kellogg stated that the water levels would be raised and plants put in place to sustain an eco-system. She stated that this would not be a pond, but a planted area.

The Committee thanked Ms. Kellogg for her attendance, and they acknowledged the aggressive work being accomplished by the Environmental Commission. The governing body agreed to consider the Commission's budget requests, as discussed this evening.

Other: Mrs. Luhrs noted that there was a revision in the capital roads project budget, and she asked the governing body if they agreed that the operating budget should remain in tact (with changes proposed on January 19 and those discussed tonight). The Committee looked at the Environmental Commission budget, with the following comments: they agreed that $500 for the wetlands project should come out of operating and be put into the capital budget; Mrs. Luhrs stated that if the governing body agreed to take the match for the ANJEC grant out of the open space tax fund, it would not be an operating budget line item, i.e., the match would show up on a separate page in the budget (i.e., the Environmental Commission budget would be $3,300). Mrs. Luhrs also noted that Clawson Park expenses could also be taken out of the open space tax fund.

Mr. Tatsch spoke about potential uses for the open space tax fund, including maintenance of Clawson Park, soft costs of $40,500 (not $4,050 as shown on the revised capital projects list) for F/OSP costs, and $7,500 per year for two years for the new baseball field. Mrs. Luhrs reminded the governing body that the costs for Geils' preservation would be held until next year, thus reducing the $334,800 by $200,000. Clawson Homestead expenses must still be considered. It was agreed that the Environmental Commission match for the ANJEC grant would be $3,000 this year, and they may decide to continue the project with an additional grant and match next year.

The Historic Preservation Committee's budget will remain at $3,618, and they will be provided with an existing desktop computer.

Mr. Kneski asked about the electronic devices at the municipal building, and Mr. Matheny explained his plan to replace computers on a regular basis with the same type of computers for each municipal department, using similar operating systems. There will be a computer made available to Historic Preservation. Mrs. Luhrs commented on having an ordinance in place for the purchase of office equipment, which is currently being used. Some comments were made about using the funding for other items, such as chairs. Mr. Matheny also noted that he would be getting a desk when the building is renovated and equipped.

Discussion took place about the renovation plans for the municipal building, and Mr. Matheny provide some details about the basement water remediation, installation of electricity and outlets in the basement, enclosure of a secured records room, and plans to run phone and computer lines to the basement. Mr. Matheny also provided information on the proposed plans to renovate upstairs, noting that there would be additional costs for roll windows for the Tax Collector and the Construction Office at approximately $7,000 per window. He would also like to have a card access system installed at a future time. There was a grand total of $90,000 in the improvement ordinance, and there is approximately $65,000 left at this time. Mr. Tatsch asked Mr. Matheny to be prepared for the next meeting to give a reasonable estimate for the renovations. Mr. Matheny stated that he is currently getting an estimate on carpeting for the basement. Mr. Matheny also acknowledged the painting being done by DPW member Joe Adamow, and Mr. Tatsch commended Joe for doing a "very nice job."

Mr. Tatsch stated that there was another issue with the Clawson Homestead project, noting that Architect Terry Golda advised the previous governing body of the estimate of $480,000 for the rehabilitation work. Mr. Tatsch would like to have a firm understanding of the realistic costs for the rework at this time, and the Township Committee will have to consider funding options. Mr. Tatsch noted that the Historic Preservation Committee is looking at grants. There are two types of grants, i.e., funding which can be obtained retroactively after work has begun, and the other type of grant must be obtained before work can commence. The governing body will have to decide which route to follow.

Mr. Kneski asked about rehabilitating the house and deciding how to proceed. Mr. Matheny explained that there was an ordinance approved to stabilize the dwelling, and work has recently been done. The next step is to use some of the remaining funding to board up the windows and do some roof repair, which is being considered. The Township Committee authorized Mr. Matheny to go forth with the window and roof work with the current funding.

Discussion took place about funding for COAH in the capital budget. Mr. Tatsch explained that the plan to acquire a home for Easter Seals is still being considered, and the possibility of bonding for the purchase was an option. Negotiations are still on-going, which should continue to be discussed in executive session. Mrs. Luhrs again suggested that Bond Counsel Andrea Kahn should be invited to a budget meeting to discuss the matter. Committee members felt that Ms. Kahn should be invited to a meeting at the end of February.

A question was raised about COAH developer fees collection, and Mr. Matheny mentioned a letter from the Construction Official indicating that he would like to collect one-half of the fee up front with the construction permit issuance. Mr. Matheny will be meeting with Tax Assessor Marianne Busher for information on the collection of 2007 fees, and the fees may be increased to collect what is allowed by the new regulations. Mrs. Stahl had some past information on COAH fees, which she provided to Mr. Kneski. She will provide any further information to both Mr. Kneski and Mr. Matheny with a copy to Municipal Housing Officer Robbins.

Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to open to the public for comments.

Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, asked if the Township would consider bonding for Clawson House if grants were not available; Mr. Tatsch said yes.

Ms. Gavigan referenced the Scibilia lot line adjustment and the money the property owner is getting from the rental by Princeton, which could possibly used to pay for the Scibilia’s expenses. She spoke about county and township ordinances to enact fines for failure to honor commitments, mentioning banks and court appearances with foreclosure issues.

Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously to close to the public.

There being no further business, motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 p.m.

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Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC

Municipal Clerk