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 June 24, 2008.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
AGENDA REVIEW
Under Correspondence, add the 6/23 Attorney Client Privilege Memo from Richard Cushing on the Scibilia Acquisition; the 6/26 Gypsy Moth Spray Program Questionnaire Results Compiled by Mayor Tatsch; and Thank You Notes from the 4th Grade Class at East Amwell Township.
The following items will be tabled this evening: Ordinance 08-11 for the Defined Contribution Retirement Program - the number will remain in sequence for introduction at a later date when further information is obtained from the State; Under Special Discussion, table Items A and B, the Amendment to the 2008 Budget and the Receipt of the 2007 Audit - new budget figures are not yet available and the auditor has not yet completed the audit.
Under the Township Administrator's Update, item 3 on Stormwater will also include a report on the gatekeeper function policy (see the 6/26/08 policy on Stormwater Review Procedure); item 7 will be an update on Animal Control Services (refer to the 2008 draft contract provided by Hunterdon Humane Animal Shelter); item 8 will be revised schedule for the municipal building project, and a request to hold a special meeting in July to award bids.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
East Amwell Summer Playground will take place at the East Amwell Township School from June 23 through July 25, 2008. The program is open to all Township children, who have completed Kindergarten through 8th grade. Call the Clerk for details.
Municipal Offices will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2008, in observance of Independence Day.
There is only one regular Township Committee meeting in July on July 17, 2008, and one in August on August 14, 2008.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
June 12, 2008, Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried unanimously with a typing correction on page 9.
June 12, 2008, Executive Minutes were approved on a motion by Ms. Lenox , seconded by Mr. Martin, and carried unanimously with a correction on page 2, paragraph 4, change reference date from November 2006 to October 25, 2006, and some minor grammatical changes provided by the Mayor.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
The meeting was opened to the public, but there were no members of the public present. Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
INTRODUCTION OF
ORDINANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS
ORDINANCE 08-10: AN AMENDMENT TO THE 2008 SALARY AND WAGE ORDINANCE
The ordinance was prepared to pay the part time intern for the work with the Environmental Commission ANJEC Grant this summer. The funding is partially covered by the ANJEC grant and additional funding through the Environmental Commission budget.
Mr. Matheny also spoke about changing the salary and wage ordinance to cover the Animal Control Officer as an employee. This will be “a placeholder” in the event the Township decides to hire their own Animal Control Officer in the future. A suggested range was from $7,000 to $11,000. Mr. Matheny explained that he has made temporary arrangements for the remainder of 2008.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ORDINANCE 08-10
AN AMENDMENT TO THE 2008 SALARY & WAGE ORDINANCE
BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the 2008 Salary and Wage Ordinance, adopted on January 24, 2008, be amended as follows:
SECTION ONE:
Add the following:
SALARIED:
Title
Part-time Intern/ANJEC Smart Growth
Planning Assistance Grant Program $1,500
Animal Control Officer $7,000 - $11,000
SECTION TWO: This ordinance shall be adopted according to law.
By Order of the Township Committee,
________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
Attest:________________________
Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk
Introduced: June 26, 2008
Adopted:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to introduce Ordinance 08-10.
The ordinance will be published in the July 3, 2008, issue of the Hunterdon County Democrat, and the public hearing is set for the regular Township Committee meeting on July 17, 2008, at 7:30 p.m.
ORDINANCE 08-11 (DEFINED CONTRIBUTION) is tabled until further information is received from the state.
ORDINANCE 08-12: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND
THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL, CHAPTER 135, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, TO
ESTABLISH SPEED LIMITS ON SNYDERTOWN ROAD, WELISEWITZ ROAD, MOUNTAIN ROAD, AND
STONY BROOK ROAD
Mrs. Stahl explained that the proposed speed limits are based on a study done by the NJ DOT in 2005, and there was a three year opportunity to adopt. The ordinance must be adopted by July 2008, or the studies will be null and void. There has been a problem with the State acknowledging Chapter 135, and efforts are still be made to do so. Township Committee members briefly discussed the proposed speed limits; they are based on speed studies done by the State on a statistical formula. Mr. Kneski provided input on how it is done in Princeton Township.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ORDINANCE 08-12
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL, CHAPTER 135, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, TO ESTABLISH SPEED LIMITS ON SNYDERTOWN ROAD, WELISEWITZ ROAD, MOUNTAIN ROAD, AND STONY BROOK ROAD
BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the Code of East Amwell, Chapter 135, Vehicles and Traffic, be hereby amended as follows:
Section 1.
Under ARTICLE V, Speed Limits:
§ 135 -33. Speed limits established, insert the following roads:
Name of Street MPH Limits
Mountain Road 35 Entire length
Welisewitz Road 30 Entire length
Snydertown Road 30 Entire length
Stony Brook Road 35 Between Lambertville Hopewell
Turnpike (CR #518) and Mountain
Church Road
Stony Brook Road 25 Between Mountain Church Road and
The Hopewell Township Corporate
Line-East Amwell Township Corporate Line
Section 2. Appropriate curve symbol warnings and advisory speeds shall be installed by the Township on the roads according with the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices, issued by the New Jersey Department of Transportation.
Section 3. The ordinance shall take effect upon publication, according to law.
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
Attest:________________________
Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk
Introduced: June 26, 2008
Adopted: July 17, 2008
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried
unanimously to introduce Ordinance 08-12.
The ordinance will be published in the July 3, 2008, issue of the
Hunterdon County Democrat; the public hearing will be held at the July 17,
2008, regular Township Committee at 7:30 p.m.
ORDINANCE 08-13 AN ORDINANCE TO
PROVIDE FOR ROAD IMPROVEMENTS TO BACK BROOK ROAD, IN THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST
AMWELL, COUNTY OF HUNTERDON, NEW JERSEY AND APPROPRIATING $175,000.00 WHICH
INCLUDES AN APPROPRIATION OF $25,000.00 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND AND A
STATE OF NEW JERSEY DOT GRANT RECEIVABLE OF $150,000
Mr. Tatsch explained that the work on Back Brook Road is being covered,
in part by a grant and the municipality is contributing funding “to do a
barebones” job on the road.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ORDINANCE 08-13
AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE FOR ROAD IMPROVEMENTS TO BACK BROOK ROAD,IN THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL, COUNTY OF HUNTERDON, NEW JERSEY AND APPROPRIATING $175,000.00 WHICH INCLUDES AN APPROPRIATION OF $25,000.00 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND AND A STATE OF NEW JERSEY DOT GRANT RECEIVABLE OF $150,000
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL IN THE COUNTY OF HUNTERDON, NEW JERSEY, as follows:
Section l. The improvement described in Section 2 of this ordinance is hereby authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by the Township of East Amwell, New Jersey. For the said improvements or purposes described in Section 2, there is hereby appropriated the sum of $175,000.00 said sum being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefore.
Section 2. The Township of East Amwell is hereby authorized to make road improvements to Back Brook Road.
Section 3. It is hereby determined and stated that the undertaking of the aforesaid work, acquisition or improvements is not a current expense of the Township of East Amwell, but rather a capital expense and the East Amwell Township's estimated cost of said work, acquisition or improvement is $175,000.00.
Section 4. The sum of $175,000.00 is hereby appropriated for said purpose. The funding is provided by appropriating $25,000.00 from the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township of East Amwell and $150,000 as a grant receivable from the State of New Jersey DOT for said purpose as required by law and now available therefore in one or more previously adopted budgets.
Section 5. No debt of any kind is authorized for this undertaking.
Section 6. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption according to law.
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
Attest:_______________________________
Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk
Introduced: June 26, 2008
Adopted:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to introduce Ordinance 08-13.
The ordinance will be published in the
July 3, 2008, issue of the Hunterdon County Democrat, and the public hearing
will take place at the July 17, 2008, regular Township Committee at 7:30 p.m.
SPECIAL DISCUSSIONS - None
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS - None
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
1) Authorization for Mayor to Sign Revised ANJEC Grant Agreement for Conservation Easement Project: Member Suzanne Parsons sent a 6/23 memo with a corrected grant agreement to be signed by the Mayor. The ANJEC grant award was $1,400 (rather than $2,100).
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION #115-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the Mayor be hereby authorized to sign the 2008 Smart Growth Planning Grant Project Agreement for the Conservation Easement Inventory, outlining the tasks and timetable and funds agreement for the project.
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 have the Mayor sign the agreement.
Mr. Martin noted that the second ANJEC grant application by the Environmental Commission for the rain garden at Clawson Park was funded.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR’S UPDATE:
1) Quotes for 2 Year
Trash and Recycling Collection Contract:
Quotes were solicited from Raritan Valley Disposal (RVD), Waste
Management (WM), Carnevale Disposal, and Kasper Disposal. Kasper did not quote. Mr. Matheny explained that if the items
were bid “piecemeal” Waste Management would be lower in some portions than
Raritan Valley, e.g., for Municipal and Clawson Park pick up, the cost would be
about $48.00 savings by using Waste Management. For the clean up day, the cost for
compactors from Waste Management was $1,500 per unit and from Raritan Valley
Disposal, it was $600 per unit. Mr.
Matheny discussed the quotes with Treasurer Luhrs and both agreed to stay with
Raritan Valley Disposal, noting that their rate overall was lower and there
have been no issues with RVD in past performance.
Mr. Matheny provided the following information to the governing body (who
did not have a copy of the spread sheet):
Quotes from from RVD, WM, and Carnevale, respectively: Municipal collection - $209, 217, 324;
Clawson Park - $100, 87.76, $180; Total - $309, 305.15, 504; Roll off service and tipping fee -
$264.80/80.00, $194/77.50, $199/79.00; Recycling per haul and process fee - $172.14/46.80 for
total of $218.94, $194.00/no processing
fee for total of $194.00, $295/no
processing fee for total of $295.00;
April Roadside per hauling and tipping - $174.12/80, $194/77.50,
$225/79; Clean Up Day packers - $650;
$1500, no bid; Clean Up Day roll off tires, tipping and metal recycle -
$321/255/265, $250/200/194, and $260/125/225.
Mr. Matheny noted that there are usually at least 3 packers used on
Clean up day (i.e., $1,800 for Raritan Valley Disposal versus $4,500 for Waste
Management). Mr. Matheny again
recommended staying with RVD.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION
#116-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the
Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that a two year contract,
from July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2010, be hereby granted to Raritan Valley
Disposal, 9 Frontage Road, P. O. Box 4010, Clinton, New Jersey 08809, as
outlined in their quote returned by June 20, 2008, on file in the Clerk’s Office.
By
Order of the Township Committee,
____________________________
C.
Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Martin, and it was carried
unanimously to award the two year contract to Raritan Valley Disposal.
2) Google Apps: Mr. Matheny explained that the vendor doing
the work under a separate company (i.e., a “DBA”) provided a business
registration certificate with the name of a company in which Mrs. Stahl has a
small interest. He further explained
that the cost estimate from that company is for eight hours of work at a rate
of $800; a second estimate (obtained verbally) from another vendor was $120 per
machine for conversion, which would be a higher amount. Since the cost estimate was below $3,150, no
formal quotes were necessary. Mr.
Matheny asked the governing body for permission to move forward with the first
estimate. He felt that if the job was
awarded to the first vendor and the cost was more than the second one, this
might be construed as an ethical dilemma (not the other way around).
The governing body requested that two quotes be obtained so that there was
documentation for the award, but they agreed that they “were comfortable” with
going forth with the first vendor if the costs were justified. It was hoped that the transition to Google
Apps would take place in the next couple of weeks.
In the interim, Mr. Matheny’s “eastamwelltownship.com” mail account is
not working, and he may be contacted through eastamwelltim@yahoo.com.
3) Stormwater
Management (SWM):
- The
2007 Annual Compliance report, done by the Stormwater Management
Coordinator Dennis O’Neal, was submitted to the state, and East Amwell Township
is in compliance.
- Gatekeeper
Policy: Mr. Matheny explained that
he never received the original 2006 checklist and memo about gatekeeper
responsibilities. He did work with
Zoning Officer McManus and SWM Coordinator Dennis O’Neal in revising the
checklist. Mr. Matheny prepared a draft
policy, which he would like to get in place by July 1. The document will memorialize the procedures
now in place and will require that the checklist be completed. One recommendation he made in the policy was
to cut the number of copies of the completed application from three to two (one
for the applicant and one for the files).
A copy of the policy was provided to Andrea Bonette earlier today and
the members of the ad hoc committee were also provided copies by email. One response from member Kathy Machnik was
favorable.
Mr. Kneski commented favorably on the proposed policy, but he suggested a
“slight twist” to the review process since the NJ DEP is currently reviewing
Category One Waterways with respect to 300 foot buffers. He suggested that there may be some concerns
with these changes. He noted that two
sources of mapping are being used in the process, i.e.,. soil conservation
areas near tributaries and USGS mapping.
He explained that Princeton Township is currently evaluating standards
applicability. The Township Committee
felt that the water protection issue should go to the Board of Health as a
first step and this could be done as a parallel process.
The Township Committee and Mr. Matheny continued their discussion. Mr.
Matheny was asking the governing body to adopt the policy as written,
and it could be amended in the future as needed.
A motion was made by Mr. Martin and seconded by Mr. Kneski to adopt the
policy.
A question was raised about number 8, sending all agricultural uses
exceeding review standards in number 6 to the Stormwater Coordinator for
review. Additionally, some discussion
took place on whether or not the Zoning Officer had the authority to issue stop
work orders, or was this solely the responsibility of the Construction
Official. Mr. Matheny explained that
the policy is based on the stormwater management ordinance, which was
previously adopted, and language is taken directly out of the ordinance. Mrs. Stahl also reminded the governing body
that Attorney Cushing did review and approve that ordinance. Mr. Matheny also noted that in theory,
construction permits cannot be issued unless all other approvals are
obtained. It was noted that the Zoning
Officer is required to provide his zoning approval or disapproval within 10
days of application, and the Stormwater Management review can be a separate
review. If a project is started based
on only the zoning review, the Zoning Officer can enforce the Stormwater
Management Ordinance and write summonses accordingly.
The motion on the floor to approve the policy was carried
unanimously. The Committee members
commended Mr. Matheny for his fine work on preparing the procedures.
4) Request from Post Office to Serve as
Emergency Back-Up Site: Mrs. Stahl
explained that the Post Office must assign an emergency back-up site to
relocate in the event of an emergency.
The back-up site is the fire company’s property, where they would put up
a temporary trailer to serve. This
year there was a request for a second back-up location, and the Post Mistress
asked if the Township would agree; Mr. Matheny previously advised the Post
Office that this was acceptable.
5) Revised
Construction Drawings for the Clawson House: Mr. Matheny explained that the plans
prepared by Architect Terry Golda must be revised to show that the back of the
house is gone and the caretaker's quarters are eliminated. Other changes are also necessary, and the
plans must be accurate to submit with the grant application approved at the
last meeting. Mr. Golda has provided
an agreement to prepare the revisions at a cost of $6,000, with half of the
amount earmarked for HVAC and mechanical revisions. It was also noted that the Historic
Preservation Committee is looking at Rockefeller grants also. The award of the contract will be done as a
professional services resolution, and funding will come out of the Open Space
Trust Fund.
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RESOLUTION #117-08
Be It Resolved by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, that they hereby award the following professional services contract without competitive bidding as a professional service pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a)(i):
Terence A. Golda, AIA
49 John Ringo Road
Ringoes, NJ 08551
To revise construction drawings of the Clawson
House as outlined in his June 18, 2008, Proposal
Amount of Contract: $6,000.00
Be It Further Resolved that a copy of the contract and resolution authorizing it are on file
and available for public inspection in the Clerk’s Office, 1070 Route 202/31, Ringoes, NJ 08551 during regular business hours.
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.
Committee members commended Mr. Golda on "doing a great job."
6) Township
Employees' Bike Ride through Hunterdon Area Rural Transit (HART): Mr. Matheny provided information on the
employees' Bike to Work Day, which was held on June 20th. Employees enjoyed the brief ride and
breakfast at Mom's as they participated in the County sponsored program. Mr. Tatsch also provided information on
bicycle trails on Cape Cod and efficiencies in biking, and Mr. Martin provided
anecdotal information on his past experience of riding a bicycle to work.
7) Animal Control
Officer (ACO) Services: Mr. Matheny
has been relentless in his efforts to get ACO coverage, effective July 1, when
Raritan Township will no longer cover East Amwell's needs, i.e., including
contacting Hopewell Township, Montgomery Township, Hillsborough Township,
Bridgewater, and Denville. Mr.
Matheny has reached out to Hunterdon Humane Animal Shelter (formerly the SPCA),
which has its own non-kill shelter. They
try to have animals adopted out unless they are vicious or unadoptable. Mr. Matheny felt that this arrangement will
carry the Township throughout the rest of the year. The numbers in East Amwell are not large, and
the Humane Shelter will charge $1.75 per capita based on a 2004 population of
4562, for a total of $7,983 a year.
Since the agreement will be from July 1 through December 31, 2008, the
cost will be half, i.e., $3,991.50. Mr. Matheny will continue to consider options
for the future, but he recommended that the governing body support the
recommendation to sign the agreement with Hunterdon Humane for the remainder of
the year.
Mr. Matheny also commented on speaking with the Administrator from
Raritan Township on the cost of coverage for the first half of 2008. While Raritan Township originally asked for
$11,700 for the year, this was based on their hiring a second ACO, which never
happened. Mr. Matheny will argue that
East Amwell should pay one half of the amount of last year's contract of
$8,500, or $4,250 for the first six months of coverage in 2008. With this payment and the expected amount
for the Humane Shelter, costs will remain within budget for 2008.
State Police will be notified that they should contact the Humane
Shelter, not Raritan Township, effective July 1.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION #118-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the
Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, that they hereby authorize
the Township Administrator to sign an agreement for Animal Control Coverage
with the following agency: The
Hunterdon Humane Animal Shelter, 576 Stamets Road, Milford, New Jersey 08848 for
a contract from July 1 - December 31, 2008 in the amount of $3991.50 for
coverage as outlined in their contract received on June 25, 2008.
By
Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
C.
Larry Tatsch, Mayor
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried
unanimously.
Committee members commended Mr. Matheny for his efforts in finding animal
control coverage.
8) Municipal Building
Renovation Project: Engineer Dennis
O'Neal provided a detailed project schedule, including preparing specs for
public availability on July 3, and accepting bids on July 23, 2008 at 10
a.m. In order to move the project
forward, the Township Committee was willing to schedule a special meeting for
Thursday, July 31, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. to award the bid for the project.
Mr. Tatsch asked about using high efficiency lighting as part of the
renovations. Mr. Matheny explained that
the renovations would not include lighting or HVAC changes, noting that these
would be high expense items. However,
the lights in the building are florescent, not incandescent, which have a
better efficiency.
9) Court Security: Mr. Matheny reported on a "court
scuffle" at a recent session when an elderly lady accosted another
attendee in a neighbor dispute. Mr.
Tatsch noted that a resident spoke months ago about a mediation process in
Raritan Township. He also stated that Court
Administrator Hooven advised that the Court has a similar system, where
neighbor disputes can be resolved, e.g., barking dogs, boundary disputes,
etc. These cases can be taken out of
the court system; they go to mediation to reach a mutual conclusion; if an
agreement is not reached, the cases go back to court. There is a 99% effectiveness rating, and the
mediation takes place in the Flemington area.
The possibility of making this information available in a brochure for
residents was suggested; Mrs. Stahl will speak with Court Administrator Hooven
about this.
10) Other: The curb on High Mowing Road in front of the
Paul's house will be repaired; some comments were made about the need to repair
the damaged curb. Additionally, the
in-lets on Welisewitz Road will be installed soon.
RESOLUTION FOR APPROVAL TO SUBMIT MA-2009 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
GRANT BY ELECTRONIC PROCESS (SAGE) FOR LINDBERGH ROAD PROJECT Mr. Tatsch explained that Engineer O'Neal
had previously approached him about the possibility of applying for 2009 DOT
funding. Both Mr. Tatsch and Committee
member Kneski had agreed that an application for the overlay on Lindbergh Road
would be a good project to submit, especially in light of patching work being
done as a temporary measure this year.
Mr. O'Neal's staff submitted the NJ DOT application electronically with
a couple of minor corrections suggested by Mr. Tatsch. The resolution being offered this evening
must be approved within 30 days of submittal.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION #119-08
APPROVAL TO
SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION AND
EXECUTE A GRANT
AGREEMENT WITH THE NEW JERSEY
DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION FOR THE MA-2009 LINDBERGH ROAD IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
WHEREAS, an
electronic application was submitted through the NJ Department of
Transportation’s System of Administering Grants Electronically (SAGE) on June
18, 2008; and
WHEREAS, it is
necessary to adopt a resolution approving the submittal of the grant
application within thirty days of the electronic submission date;
NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell,
formally approves the grant application for the above stated project.
BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED that the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to submit an electronic
grant application identified as the MA-2009 East Amwell Township -00362
Lindbergh Road Improvements Project to the New Jersey Department of
Transportation on behalf of the Township of East Amwell.
BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED that the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the grant
agreement on behalf of the Township of East Amwell and that their signature
constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of the grant agreement and
approves the execution of the grant agreement.
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.
RESOLUTION TO SIGN BLUE SHIELD CONSULTING AGREEMENT FOR SHARED SERVICE
STUDY FOR POLICE COVERAGE Mr. Tatsch
stated that he appreciated input from Mr. Matheny and Mrs. Luhrs about the
agreement provided by Blue Shield, which raised a lot of concerns. The first item of concern was that shared
court services were never brought up at the meetings, and East Amwell is not
interested in this aspect of the contract.
Additionally, the contract looked at the City of Lambertville as a
"template" to develop the model, and there was a question as to
whether the current police department should be the model for development. Payment schedules provided for a hefty
front load of payments with only a modest fee for work completed. Payments for special, undefined legal counsel,
and reimbursement of travel expenses and experts were also not well defined in
the proposed agreement and did not protect the Township from unknown added
expenses. A question of indemnity for
Blue Shield was also mentioned, i.e., the consultant should have his own
insurance and not expect the Township to cover him. Mr. Tatsch sent an email to Shared
Services Coordinator Michael Capabianco highlighting his real concerns, and Mr.
Matheny will also follow up with Mr. Capabianco. The governing body agreed with Mr. Tatsch's
comments. Mrs. Luhrs will provide a
copy of the agreement to the West Amwell Clerk, who was not copied on the
document.
Mr. Matheny commented on the poorly written document and provided
examples; he noted that deliverables are not spelled out in the agreement, and
he asked what the Township would get when the work was done. Mr. Martin asked if the Township could
"bail out" of the study. Mr.
Tatsch explained that the selection of Blue Shield was based on the firm's prior
experience in similar projects and in cost factors; to refuse to go forth with
this company would mean going out to solicit contracts once a gain and prolong
the process. Mr. Tatsch commented on
having a good study, but he reminded the governing body they are under no
obligation to share the police service with West Amwell and Lambertville. Mr. Martin spoke about managing the
consultant in the study; it was noted that the City of Lambertville is the lead
agency, and Mr. Martin reminded the Committee that all municipalities were
equal partners in the study. Mr.
Tatsch concluded that the intent is to get a good quality report from the
study, leveraging state funding. He
will provide comments to Mr. Capabianco, and Mr. Matheny was also asked to do
so. A revised contract will be
expected.
COMMENTS FROM PLANNER BANISCH ON COUNTY-WIDE WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT
PLANNING AND WQMP (See 6/20 Email from
Planner Banisch.) As background
information, Hunterdon County asked if the Township would be joining with them
in their County wide Wastewater Management Plan. The Township is currently out
of date on their plan. The County would
administer the plan and East Amwell would prepare a chapter. Hunterdon County received a grant for the
work. The Township was unsure about
how they wanted to proceed, and advice was sought from Engineer O'Neal and
recently from Planner Banisch to make an informed decision. Planner Banisch's recommendation is that
while there are some benefits, yet some uncertainties, in joining with
Hunterdon County, the Township should work with the County on their plan. There is a new County department planning
agency to oversee the plan, and the Township will have some control in their
own chapter.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the possibility of obtaining better state aid in
the future when partnering with other agencies. Committee members agreed to notify
Hunterdon County Planning Board representative Bogen that East Amwell will
participate. The Township will look at
appointing an ad hoc committee to work on this plan.
NEW BUSINESS - none
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The meeting was open to the public for comments. There being no members of the public present,
a motion was made by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Martin, and it was carried
unanimously to close to the public.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented the bills of the evening. Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms.
Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the bills of the evening.
There were no resolutions from either the Treasurer or the Tax Collector.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mr. Tatsch commented on the "very well written letter about the
park" from resident George Miller.
If there was unauthorized use of the PA system after the baseball event,
the Township Committee agreed that a letter should be sent to the Little League
making them aware of this. Some
discussion took place on different
interpretations made by Mr. Miller and Mr. Richardson about the use of
the PA system after the official event. A suggestion was made to advise the Little
League that if the PA system cannot be controlled after official use, the
system should be secured with a lock to disable it or have it removed. The governing body felt that 9 p.m. was an
appropriate hour to turn off the system. Committee members agreed that the letter
should ask for voluntary compliance and respect for neighbor’s concerns without
having to resort to an ordinance at this time.
Mrs. Stahl will send a letter to the Little League.
Mr. Tatsch referred to the resolution from West Amwell Township in
opposition to A-2867/S-1919, the Permit Extension Act of 2008. Mr. Tatsch explained that the Board of
Health had concerns about a similar bill adopted in the 1990’s when the Board
had to accept old soil testing for new septic systems, which may have benefited
developers, but did not protect the safety and welfare of the public. He felt that the proposed legislation was a
“short sighted” policy and did not constitute good planning. The extension would be until 2012, which was
a four year extension, rather a one or two year extension possible in these
economic times.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION
#120-08
Opposing Proposed Assembly Bill A2867 (and Identical Senate
Bill S1919)
Known as the “Permit Extension Act of 2008”
WHEREAS, on May
19, 2008, New Jersey State Assemblyman Louis Greenwald (D-6) and Assemblyman
Joseph Cryan (D-20) introduced Assembly Bill A2867 known as the “Permit
Extension Act of 2008”, (with identical Senate Bill No. S1919 introduced in the
New Jersey Senate by NJ State Senator Paul Sarlo [D-36] and Senator Jeff Van
Drew [D-1]) (the “Act”); and
WHEREAS, the Act,
as introduced, declares that there exists - from the period of January 1, 2006
and continuing through to December 31, 2012, a state of economic emergency in
the State of New Jersey, particularly a crisis in the banking, real estate and
constructions sectors, and declares that as a result of the crisis real estate
and industrial developers have experienced an industry-wide decline. The Act
finds that a “myriad of new regulations with regard to environmental protection
have significantly increased” costs of development, in addition to other
findings regarding development costs and the permitting and approval process;
and
WHEREAS, the Act
purports to address New Jersey’s state of economic emergency by automatically
suspending the running of the period of approvals – tolling the period of time
when an affected government or agency- issued permit or approval would
otherwise expire, including extending certain approvals that have already
expired. The proposed permit extension would extend the expiration of approvals
at least through December 31, 2012, and certain approvals up to two years
thereafter; and
WHEREAS, although it is commendable that the New Jersey
Legislature would seek proactively to recognize and address a state of economic
emergency, the proposed Permit Extension Act of 2008 is ineffectual to
accomplish its stated purposes of preventing a waste of public and private
resources, fails to address any such economic emergency or provide any economic
stimulus benefit, improperly interferes with the powers and authorities of
local municipalities, and may in fact result in a severe detrimental impact
upon the environment and the general public health, safety and wellbeing by
allowing projects with expired approvals, or stalled projects with approvals
set to expire, to avoid having to comply with subsequent changes in
environmental law, public health standards, building codes or local zoning; and
WHEREAS, it is the steadfast and
earnest opinion of the East Amwell Township Committee that the proposed Act is
neither beneficial nor in the best interests of the citizens of East Amwell
Township, and, rather than providing an economic benefit, would adversely
impact the residents of this State.
NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Township Committee of East Amwell Township, in
the County of Hunterdon, State of New Jersey, as follows:
1. The Mayor and Committee of East Amwell
Township strongly oppose Assembly Bill A-2867 (and identical Senate Bill No.
S-1919) known as the “Permit Extension Act of 2008”, as introduced.
2. The Mayor
and Committee of East Amwell Township urge its State Legislators to oppose the
Permit Extension Act of 2008.
3. The
Mayor and Committee of East Amwell Township urge its State Legislators and the
Governor to consider and propose better options for addressing a state of
economic emergency and providing a benefit to the citizens of this State at
large, rather than relying upon the presently proposed extension of permits and
approvals to the benefit of developers.
4. The
Township Clerk is authorized and directed to forward a copy of this Resolution
to Assemblywoman Marcia Karrow, Assemblyman Michael Doherty, Senator Leonard
Lance, the Office of Governor Jon Corzine, the NJ
State League of Municipalities, and to the clerks of all municipalities
within Hunterdon County and Mercer County.
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 this resolution.
Mr. Tatsch explained that he received a letter from Senator Pennacchio in
support of S-445, the Transparency in Government Act. The bill would require that within 45 days
following the close of each fiscal year, budget information be placed on a
website along with contract information, salary and wages, gifts, bond
obligations, etc., all accessible to the public. This may entail the creation of another
government office to oversee this. Mr.
Tatsch asked for a resolution to support the bill.
Mrs. Stahl reminded the governing body that the budget, salary and wage
ordinances, bonds, etc. are done over a course of time, and keeping the website
current may be a task. Mr. Tatsch
explained for the benefit of the Township Committee that the bill was for state
finance accountability, not municipalities.
Mrs. Cregar then agreed that she would support a resolution for the
bill, asking that the resolution be sent to all Hunterdon County and Mercer
County municipalities.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
RESOLUTION
#121-08
WHEREAS, transparency in
government is necessary to identify State spending and where State taxpayer
dollars are going.
WHEREAS, a State public finance website which would retain and display data and information on the State’s annual revenues, expenditures and total bonded indebtedness is necessary; a user-friendly source of information to track State revenues and expenditures and to gauge it’s past and present levels of indebtedness.
WHEREAS, the State website would include information such as contractual service purchases, salaries and wages, gifts and grants and bonded obligations and must be accessible to the public no later than 45 days following the close of each fiscal year.
WHEREAS, a bi-partisan approach to improving transparency, identifying waste and eliminating abuse at each level of State government and the establishment of the Public Finance Transparency Committee would facilitate the organization, development and maintenance of the website.
WHEREAS, Senator Joe Pennacchio has introduced S-445 the “Transparency in Government Act,” to establish such aforementioned State public finance website and Public Transparency Committee.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Governing Body of East Amwell Township hereby voices our support of Senator Pennacchio’s bill, S-445, the “Transparency in Government Act,” and a certified copy of this resolution shall be sent to Governor Jon S. Corzine, Senate President Richard J. Codey, Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean, Jr. and Senator Joe Pennacchio, Senator Leonard Lance, Hunterdon County Municipalities, and Mercer County Municipalities.
By Order of the Township Committee,
_____________________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Motion by Mrs. Cregar and seconded by Mr. Kneski.
Mr. Tatsch read a portion of the letter from Senator Pennacchio: “The Transparency in Government Act provides for the establishment of a state public finance website which retains and displays data and information on the State’s annual revenues, expenditures and total bonded indebtedness. This bill establishes an accessible, user-friendly source of information to track State revenues and expenditures and to gauge its past and present levels of indebtedness….”
The motion to approve the resolution was carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 p.m.
_________________________________
Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk