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 and Peter Kneski. Township Committee member Timothy Martin was absent. 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 November 21, 2008.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
AGENDA REVIEW
Under Standing Committees, add a resolution to discuss land acquisition and contracts in executive session. Under Township Administrator's Update, add the following: Change in Office Hours for Tuesday Night Staff; Truck Purchase Suggestion from the DPW. Under Unfinished Business, add Item D, Request from West Amwell to Hold a Shared Services Meeting - Update from Mayor Tatsch
Under Correspondence, add the following: 11/24 email from TRC Solutions re: the Government Energy Audit; 11/18 General Code re: eCode360 webinars; 11/23 John Brunner re:Draft Sourland Comprehensive Management Plan; 11/24 Email from West Amwell Township re: COAH meeting with Assemblywoman Karrow on December 3, 2008, at 7 p.m.; 11/24 Email from Hunterdon County Planning Board re: 12/3 County Breakfast Talk on Wastewater Management Plans; 11/25 email from Linda Lenox on Neighborhood Stabilization Program Action Plan; 11/25 Email from the Environmental Commission on Preservation of B. 35/L. 54 (Wallin Property), and 11/25 Attorney/Client Letter from Attorney Cushing re: Land Acquisition of Gutkowski and Wallin.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Municipal Offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 27 & 28, 2008, for Thanksgiving Holidays.
The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting will be held on Sunday, December 7, at 4 p.m. at the municipal building.
The Regular Township Committee meetings in December will be on December 11 and December 30, 2008, at 7:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
November 13, 2008 Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Mrs. Cregar and seconded by Mr. Kneski. A correction was offered by the Attorney via email: on page 7, under Hunting on Township Property, strike the last half of the last sentence in paragraph 3 on the topic, after the semi-colon; replace with "he explained that the current language as to what was a park is ambiguous since it does not define clearly what a park is. Hence, if the Township Committee believes the land in question fits within the definition of a park, then hunting would be forbidden; it they don't believe that it fits the definition of a park, then the ordinance would not bar hunting." Other corrections include page 4, under Wastewater Quality Management Plan Update, first paragraph, line 11, add “2009” after April 7; on page 5, paragraph 1, line 7, change “possibly” to “possibility”; on page 14, under Correspondence, paragraph 2, line 7, changed “commented on having this discussion at the Planning Board” to “commented that this discussion was held at the Planning Board.…” The minutes were approved with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
November 13, 2008 Executive Minutes (Litigation, Contracts, Attorney Advice) were approved on a motion by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and carried with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
The meeting was open to the public for comments.
Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, spoke about the proposed Wertsville Road repair, with the following comments: she went to the Hunterdon County Freeholders Meeting to discuss the issue, and two Freeholders are receptive to a "scale back" of the project; the project is financed by federal funding; County representatives, including the Freeholders, are willing to come to a meeting in East Amwell in January; a recent Hunterdon County Democrat article stated that the road would be closed 6 - 8 weeks -- it should have read months; Ms. Gavigan commented on receiving "sympathy awareness" and sensitivity to businesses on the road; she also commented on the Hunterdon County budget process, the possibility of layoffs or downsizing at the County, and a County decision not to purchase trucks at this time; she commented that the County is listening, they have full federal funding, and the intent to acquire properties is the next step; Ms. Gavigan will contact Congressman Holt and Washington to initiate a scale back; the road does not look bad to her; she wanted to bring awareness to the Township Committee that the Back Brook project will be near the same time as the Wertsville Road project; she would prefer to see the bridge on Van Lieus repaired instead, and she concluded that there was a willingness to work with the Township.
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS
Introduction of Ordinance
Ordinance 08-19:
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ORDINANCE 08-19 AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF $10,000 TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR EAST AMWELL TOWNSHIP FUNDING SHARE OF THE BACK BROOK ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, IN THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL, IN THE COUNTY OF HUNTERDON, NEW JERSEY AND APPROPRIATING $10,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF EAST AMWELL IN THE COUNTY OF HUNTERDON, NEW JERSEY, as follows:
Section 1. 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 supplemental amount of $10,000, such sum being in addition to the $175,000 appropriated therefore by Ordinance #08-13 of the Township finally adopted on July 17, 2008, said sum being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefore.
Section 2. The Township of East Amwell is hereby authorized to provide for the Township share of funding for the Back Brook Road improvement project as described in Ordinance #08-13 of the Township finally adopted on July 17, 2008, including all costs necessary therefore or incidental thereto.
Section 3. It is hereby determined and stated that the undertaking of the aforesaid work, acquisition or improvement 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 $185,000, including $175,000 appropriated by Ordinance #08-13 finally adopted on July 17, 2008 and the $10,000 appropriated herein.
Section 4. The supplemental sum of $10,000.00 is hereby appropriated for said purpose. The funding is provided by appropriating $10,000.00 from the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township of East Amwell 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:
Adopted:
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Mr. Matheny explained that there was a $150,000 grant from the NJ DOT and there is a change in the scope of the work to be done by the Township. The original "guesstimate" was $65,000; however the scope and engineer review to downscale the work will be closer to $69,000. The Treasurer recommended adding $10,000 to the existing ordinance to cover all expenses associated with the project. The engineer believes that the proposed changes, which is scaled back to repair only the section of work that needs the most work, is within the grant constraints.
Motion by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to introduce Ordinance 08-19. The ordinance will be published in the December 4, 2008, issue of the Hunterdon County Democrat, and the public hearing will be on December 30, 2008, at 7:30 p.m. at the regular Township Committee meeting.
Public Hearings - None
SPECIAL DISCUSSION
COAH PLAN - This item will be tabled until the Planner and the Municipal Housing Liaison appear at the meeting.
COMCAST RENEWAL - Presentation by Robert Clifton, Comcast Area Director of Government & Community Affairs and Technical Advisor Frank Schaffer. Cable TV Ad Hoc Committee member Richard Spiegel was also present.
Mr. Schaffer reported that the upgrade is complete, and Comcast resolved upgrade issues. While the company previously had 1400 calls for service, they are dropping back to approximately 350 pending trouble calls. The calls are equally distributed between cable tv and internet, and there are phone service issues, but not as many since they have less phone customers. Service visits are either same or next day appointments unless the customer requests a time appointment, which will involve an extra day.
Mayor Tatsch asked Township Committee members about their experiences with the company within the last two months, and he also invited the public in the audience to comment on any problem issues they may have had.
Fred Gardner, 46 North Hill Road, said he was a satisfied customer with Patriot Media, and with the switch to Comcast, there have been problems after problems with both the phone and internet, i.e., service outages on both. He would have liked to have all three components (phone, internet, and television) with one carrier, but Verizon is not offering that at this time. Mr. Gardner converted to Dish. Mr. Gardner explained an additional problem with the elimination of his existing phone number; after two months Verizon worked with Comcast to rectify the matter, but the whole experience "was excruciating." While Mr. Gardner hoped that the problems at Comcast were being rectified, he stated emphatically that "he would never consider going back to Comcast." He concluded by urging the Township Committee to make sure that they see improvements with Comcast.
Sue Posselt, 155 Cider Mill Road, commented on being without internet and phone for a six week period, and she was using her cell phone. A repair finally arrived to fix the problem, but it was not at the assigned time. She noted also that her daughter, a Raritan Township resident with Comcast, is currently without phone service right now.
Ms. Posselt asked how she could get her address in the Embarq phone book correctly since she is now a Comcast customer. Mr. Clifton will look into this and report back. Mayor Tatsch noted that the Verizon books are published much earlier than November.
Mayor Tatsch commented favorably on the cable phone system, and he would like to see if the municipality could switch to cable. Mr. Clifton stated that the company does not currently offer this service to municipalities. Mayor Tatsch further commented that he has no problems with the phone or television, but once a day or a few times a day, there are "drop outs" causing him to reset the router. Another problem he often gets is message errors that "the mailbox is full."
Mr. Gardner spoke about previous service "being splendid" and then "coming apart at the seams." Mr. Schaffer explained that part of the answer was the upgrading of services, upgrading of billing, the addition of more HDTV and video, and Hi-definition capabilities. He stated that this was all coming over the cable and there was a problem with ban width.
Mr. Spiegel referenced a questionnaire provided to residents a year ago, and issues were discussed with Comcast representatives.
Mayor Tatsch also noted that there have been a number of revisions to the cable ordinance, and it was reviewed by the Attorney. He commented on specific aspects of the contract, including a $15,000 technology bonus to sign for a ten year period with a five year renewal option. The ordinance also requires Comcast to be present at quarterly meetings to address complaints from the residents or the Township; the meetings will be waived if there are only minimal complaints.
Mr. Spiegel also noted the change in distance to 200 feet from the nearest active cable distribution plant for cable service ability to schools.
Mayor Tatsch commented on the public having a number of problems, but he noted that the Township can only negotiate the services provided in the municipality. He sincerely hoped that Comcast improvements would be effective and work within the goals of the company.
Mr. Spiegel commented on "too many laws," the ability of cable companies to appeal directly to the BPU, the need to "get to the legislature … to change the BPU laws … so that the utility companies don't walk all over us."
The cable ordinance will be on the next agenda for introduction, based on attorney review. Attorney Lorraine Staples, in a phone call today, said that there was no need to send the ordinance back to the BPU for their comments, as stated in the letter previously received from them. The Clerk confirmed for the public that the incentive bonus was $15,000, not the $9,500, as written in the November draft.
The Comcast representatives left the meeting at this time.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS - None
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
FARMLAND/OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION COMMITTEE - Present during this discussion were Chairman Glorianne Robbi, Vice Chairman Richard Ginman, and member Fred Gardner. Bill Rawlyk, D & R Greenway Land Trust, was also present for the discussion on the Wallin property, and he participated in the executive session.
1) Draft Letter to the Hunterdon County Freeholders: Mrs. Robbi explained the request for a letter to be sent to the Hunterdon County Freeholders regarding the decision made by the County Agriculture Development Board (CABD) two weeks ago to cease providing funding to non-profits working with the municipalities and the county. F/OSPC members believe that this is not a wise decision since the municipalities work with non-profits, such as D & R Greenway Land Trust. She cautioned that "time and experience, and expertise (of working with them) should not be thrown out the window."
Mayor Tatsch agreed that the letter, sent under his signature, was a good one.
Mr. Gardner also noted that D & R Greenway is not the only non-profit working in East Amwell Township. He also mentioned the New Jersey Conservation Foundation and the Hunterdon Land Trust Alliance, and he noted that Attorney DeSapio was informed about this.
Mr. Ginman suggested sharing the draft letter with other municipalities. Mrs. Robbi was already prepared to email it to some of them. The Clerk would be able to send it to all Hunterdon County municipalities also.
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to have the Mayor sign the letter prepared by F/OSPC regarding the decision by Hunterdon County not to provide funding to non-profits.
RESOLUTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION
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RESOLUTION #191 -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 land acquisition and contracts; 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
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Executive session began at 8:15 p.m.
The regular meeting resumed at 8:45 p.m.
2) 11/25 Request for Funding for Wallin Property, Block 35/Lot 54: Treasurer Luhrs in the audience advised that there was about $300,000 in the Open Space Trust Fund.
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RESOLUTION #192-08
BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that they hereby agree to utilize no greater than $15,000 from the Open Space Trust Fund, and they agree to work with D & R Greenway Land Trust on the acquisition of the Wallin Property, Block 35/Lot 54.
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 carried unanimously by roll call vote: Mr. Kneski, yes; Mrs. Cregar, yes; Ms. Lenox, yes; Mr. Tatsch, yes.
PLANNING BOARD
1) 11-13 Memo from Planner Frank Banisch on Amwell Valley Agricultural District – Open Lands Ordinance Amendment. Ms. Lenox explained that the Planning Board is “tweaking” the land management ordinance to indicate the true intent to preserve land and open space. The language is the background information for an amendment to the land management ordinance, which will be presented to the Township Committee in January 2009.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR'S UPDATE:
1) Commendation for Jennifer Floyd: Mr. Matheny explained that Ms. Floyd was hired as the part time ANJEC intern under a grant to record easements. The Environmental Commission did not expect to have the full project completed within the 30 hours, which was the amount funded in the grant. Ms. Floyd worked while renovations were being done, used the Prosecutor's office and worked "under the radar" to complete the entire project. Mr. Matheny stated that Ms. Floyd's experience and her excellent work were a benefit. Ms. Floyd also serves as a volunteer on the Historic Preservation Committee.
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RESOLUTION #193-08
WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was fortunate in obtaining an ANJEC grant in 2008 for the purpose of documenting and data-basing the Township of East Amwell’s easements of record; and
WHEREAS, in September 2008, Jennifer Floyd, an East Amwell Township resident and a volunteer member of the local Historic Preservation Committee, applied for and was hired as the ANJEC Intern to complete 30 hours of the project; and
WHEREAS, Jennifer’s expertise in research and file management resulted in the culmination of having the entire project completed within the 30 hour time frame, resulting in the databasing of all easements of record in the Township Assessor’s files;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that they hereby commend Jennifer Floyd on a job well done, and they extend their sincere appreciation to Jennifer for all her efforts.
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. Committee members agreed that they would keep Ms. Floyd in mind for other projects that the Township may have.
2) Nimcast/OEM: Mr. Matheny explained that there are different levels of training required for the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and there are certain reporting requirements for Hunterdon County. There is a possibility of losing federal grants or the government may take back previous funding or equipment if found in non-compliance. Charlie Soos does quite an amount of work for OEM, and Gary Myers is the Coordinator of OEM. East Amwell received a non-compliance notice, and Mr. Myers did a good job in coordinating the necessary information to comply.
3) Township Administrator's Contract for 2009: Mr. Matheny recommended working on the contract now to have something in place for January 2009. Mayor Tatsch and Mr. Kneski negotiated the 2008 contract, including looking at performance, amount of time on the job, consideration of salary and other issues, tangible benefits, etc. There would be only one or two meetings involved to discuss issues with Mr. Matheny. Mrs. Cregar and Mr. Kneski agreed to work on the contract negotiations. Mr. Matheny will prepare some information for them, and the Clerk will provide copies of the 2008 contract to Mrs. Cregar and Mr. Kneski.
4) Request for Change of Hours for Tuesday Evening: The Tax Assessor, the Construction Official, and the Zoning Officer have requested a change in hours, shifting the start time back one half hour and closing up at 8:00 p.m. rather than 8:30 p.m. This would also affect the Clerk's Office, who would be open from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Staff members note that there are seldom any inquiries from residents after 8:00 p.m. Committee members and Mr. Matheny were in agreement that the request sounds reasonable. Changes in the Tuesday evening office hours will be effective in January 2009.
5) Suggestion from the DPW on Dump Truck Purchase: Mr. Matheny reminded the governing body that a recommendation was made to withhold a decision to purchase a new dump truck until next year. Mr. Matheny provided the following information: the major issue for the old truck is faulty hydraulics on the single axle vehicle, which should be replaced; the current hydraulics are from state specifications for hydraulics on trucks in Ohio (where the truck was purchased), and getting parts is not an option; the hydraulics control the plow, spreader, and body dump, and the lines are brittle and break. The cost of replacing the hydraulics on the truck would be less than $10,000, and it would give 3 or 4 years of service. A suggestion was made to replace the body of the truck with a stainless steel body next year to save from further deterioration. In four or five years the Township could purchase a chassis and cab and spread the cost over time. The cost for the hydraulics would be approximately $10,000 and would be a repair taken from the operating budget. The body would be a capital expense. There is money in the DPW budget to transfer for the repair at this time. Mr. Matheny concluded that this would eliminate the need to purchase a new truck and "buy four or five years" for the cab/chassis purchase. He further stated that the real risk is to use the truck during the winter without the repair. Mr. Matheny spoke about the work being done under quotes and specifications are being prepared now.
Mr. Kneski asked if the new hydraulics would be able to handle an angle plow; Mr. Matheny understands that they would be able to do so. Mr. Kneski was leery about state aid next year, and he agreed that this would be a good alternative. Mr. Tatsch suggested getting them done before winter. Ms. Lenox agreed that spending $10,000 rather than $140,000 was prudent.
The Township Committee recognized the work that Mr. Kadezabek and the DPW did in providing a unique solution to a problem, which was very helpful. They appreciated Mr. Kadezabek's efforts.
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RESOLUTION #194-08
BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of East Amwell Township hereby authorizes the purchase of a hydraulics system for the existing mason dump truck as a repair to be funded through the operating budget.
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.
6) Lindbergh Road Grant: Mr. Matheny commented on the municipality receiving a $250,000 grant from the NJ DOT for the repair on Lindbergh Road. Engineer Dennis O'Neal discussed the possibility of combining the Lindbergh Road and Back Brook Road projects as a cost savings technique when the Township goes out to bid. Mr. Matheny reminded the governing body that there was $50,000 set aside for preparation work on Lindbergh Road, and it was unclear at that time whether a state grant would be forth-coming. Mr. O'Neal originally asked for $357,000 for the project, and the state did grant $250,000 for the work on Lindbergh Road from Burd Lane to Ridge Road. Comments were exchanged on "the wish list," the fact that crude oil is coming down in price, and there are contractors looking for work.
COUNCIL ON UNFUNDED MANDATE DECISION AND EFFECT ON DECEMBER 2008 NOTIFICATION TO STATE
Mayor Tatsch commented on the recent decision by the Council that charging municipalities for State Police services was an unfunded mandate. He recommended that the Township do nothing at this time and let the December 15th date "come and go" without contacting the state. The Township will not pay for State Police services at this time, and they will wait to see what happens thereafter. No other arrangements for police coverage, from another township or from Raritan Township, will be made at this time.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The Township Committee opened to the public for comments. There being no comments, a motion was made by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried unanimously to close to the public.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS, Continued
RESOLUTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS LITIGATION - Treasurer Jane Luhrs was present at this time.
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RESOLUTION #195-08
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 litigation; 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
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Executive session began at 9:15 p.m.
The regular meeting resumed at 9:40 p.m., and Mrs. Luhrs left the meeting at this time.
JOINT MUNICIPALITY MEETING TO DISCUSS SHARED SERVICES
Mayor Tatsch received a phone call from Deputy Mayor Ron Shapella of West Amwell Township asking for a discussion on shared services with East Amwell Township and Delaware Township. While Mr. Shapella will not be on the Township Committee next year, he will still be involved in shared services discussions. East Amwell would be interested in hosting the meeting in mid-January or thereafter, and the intent would be similar to the brainstorming meetings held by the Township Committee to discuss ways the municipalities can help each other and discuss sharing equipment.
Mayor Tatsch mentioned that the State is still encouraging municipalities to look at shared service options. Some comments were made about whether it was worthwhile at looking at merging Road Departments with West Amwell Township before hiring any new DPW employees. If this is not a consideration, it will still be worthwhile to poll their equipment and our equipment and resources and consider sharing services on large projects with both crews working together on them. Mr. Matheny noted that there were seven men on the West Amwell crew while there were only three men on East Amwell's crew, and if they were called out on joint projects, it would deplete the manpower locally in East Amwell Township. Mayor Tatsch called Mr. Shapella and agreed that it was worthwhile to hold discussions in January. Having DPW personnel discussing their issues is also a good idea. Mr. Matheny suggested hiring a DPW Superintendent who would be able to participate in discussions.
DPW SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH
Mr. Matheny mentioned the process of interviewing for the DPW Superintendent position, and there is a strong candidate for consideration. He will be called in for a second visit, and Mr. Matheny is currently making reference calls.
NEW BUSINESS
ANNOUNCEMENT OF DATE FOR 2009 REORGANIZATION
Committee members briefly discussed the date, noting that an email had been previously sent to them with suggestions of either New Year’s Day or over the weekend. All were in agreement to set the Annual Reorganization Date for Sunday, January 4, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. The Clerk will check with the Township Attorney to make sure that he is available.
1) First Meeting Date in February 2009: The Clerk is working on the Reorganization Minutes, and she explained that there would be three weeks between the January 22 meeting and the February 12 meeting. She asked about switching the first February meeting to February 5 and having the three week separation through February 26. Mrs. Cregar noted that she would be away on February 12, and having the meeting on the 5th would allow her to attend. Committee members were agreeable with this suggestion.
INTERVIEW PROCESS FOR 2009 BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
Mayor Tatsch referred to his previous email of November 18, noting that he will be away and the Township Committee should be looking for volunteers to fill vacancies, which the Clerk will advise them about. Setting up appointments to interview the candidates and inviting the Chairs of the Committee was also a recommendation. Mayor Tatsch asked the Committee to advise any interested candidates to send a letter of interest as soon as possible.
2009 PARIS GRANTS
Hunterdon County Director Robert Thurgarland sent a November 14 email explaining that municipalities are able to apply for 2009 Grant Funding by resolution if they wished to continue to be considered for funding based on the 2008 application. The Clerk reminded the governing body that municipalities did not receive any funding last year, although the County did receive a share. She recommended that the Township Committee support the resolution in the event that any funding may become available, and at the very least, perhaps the County would be willing to assist the municipalities in archiving material in the future.
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RESOLUTION # 196-08
East Amwell Township, County of Hunterdon, State of New Jersey
Paris Grants Program
Shared Services with Hunterdon County
WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey has launched its pioneering Public Archives and Records Infrastructure Support (PARIS) grant program to meet the strategic records management, preservation, and storage needs of county and municipal governments; and
WHEREAS, a top priority of the PARIS grants program is to achieve efficiencies of cost and operation through shared services and to create a service structure for municipalities and County governments; and
WHEREAS, in the 2009-10 grant cycle, priority funding will be given to county projects to perform municipal inventories, needs assessments and strategic plans for all of their municipalities; and
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell desires to collaborate with Hunterdon County in the Performance Records Reorganization, Inventory & Purging Continuation Project; and
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell is acknowledging that their eligible funds, in the amount of $40,000.00 will be leveraged with Hunterdon County; and
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell is acknowledging that any balance of leveraged monies will be utilized by the County for the purpose of the completion of the County Records Center PARIS grant expansion project and or other PARIS/County approved initiatives; and
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell is acknowledging that Hunterdon County would be both the lead agency and the applicant for such a proposal; and
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell is acknowledging the State is the final determination of the 2009/2010 PARIS grant program and projects and agrees not to hold the County responsible for the application, project and funding award as determined by the State of New Jersey PARIS grant program for the Township of East Amwell and the purposes set forth above; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, that the Township of East Amwell does support and commit to cooperation and participation in the PARIS grant for the purposes set forth above, and to execute and deliver all documents required incident thereto.
By Order of the Township Committee,
_________________
C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
SPECIAL DISCUSSION, Continued
COAH PLAN (AFFORDABLE HOUSING) Planner Frank Banisch was present at this time. He advised that the Municipal Housing Liaison would not be present.
Mr. Banisch highlighted the following as outlined in his November 13, 2008 memo: the Planning Board will have a public hearing on the Housing and Fair Share Plan element on December 10, and thereafter submit the plan to the Township Committee for their certification of the plan. The plan recommends no inclusionary mechanism, it includes accessory apartments, alternative living arrangements, 100% affordable component, and the Township would be able to bond to purchase land or buildings.
Further comments exchanged between Mr. Banisch and the Township Committee included the following: COAH phases include the requirement to only meet the growth share a municipality accrues – there is no longer an estimate figure; looking at building permits, the municipality may never “trigger the threshold” to get to their figure; the Township has met all their previous COAH obligations; the proposed plans includes housing which is useful to the community, including accessory apartments and use of existing buildings; the Municipal Housing Liaison is searching Google maps to look at possible COAH housing options, e.g., buying low end properties, presenting two family dwellings, etc.; the present economy may be helpful in acquiring the properties; there are some unique opportunities available, and comments were made about Teaneck Township’s planning techniques.
Mayor Tatsch referenced page two of the memo regarding the very large non-residential square feet growth; he noted that there was a past problem with misclassification of some buildings as commercial units. Mr. Banisch stated that the number could be double checked, but COAH would not be changing obligation numbers; he stated that proving growth is what counts, and it may be worthwhile to look at this again. Mr. Banisch concluded that there would be no re-zoning in the Plan, which is almost complete.
Mayor Tatsch explained that the previous round figure was 44 units, and the current round is around 60 more. He suggested keeping it in perspective, however, since it does not pertain to a 10 year obligation. The round covers from 1999 through 2018, almost a 20 year period; he stated that other municipalities, including those in South Jersey, have larger obligations. Mayor Tatsch continued by stating that East Amwell is preserving farmland and open space and did rezone, which helped to keep COAH obligations low.
The Township Committee thanked Mr. Banisch for his presentation this evening.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented the bills of the evening and a revenue report
Treasurer’s Resolutions:
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RESOLUTION #197-08
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-58 permits appropriation transfers during the last two months of the current 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
Streets and Roads:
Salary & wage $10,000.00
Vehicle Maintenance:
Other expenses $10,000.00
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION #198-08
WHEREAS, certain account payable purchase orders remain open on the balance sheet of the Township of East Amwell;
WHEREAS, it has been determined that these purchase orders are no longer necessary;
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 account payable balances be canceled:
Vendor Dept. Charged Amount Canceled
Flemington Bituminous Road Repair & Maintenance: OE $2,981.00
Eleanor’s Embroidery Road Repair & Maintenance: OE $ 52.50
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION # 199-08
WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Planning Board of the Township of East Amwell that the following escrow fee can be refunded;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell that the Treasurer is hereby authorized to refund the following amount to the applicants:
Applicant Amount Refunded
Brian & Jennifer Hoppaugh $410.50
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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RESOLUTION #200-08
WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Township Engineer of the Township of East Amwell that the following inspection 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 amount to the applicant:
Applicant Amount Refunded
Integrity Auto Body, Inc. $60.39
By Order of the Township Committee,
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C. Larry Tatsch, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Kneski, and carried unanimously to approve the resolutions.
Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the bills. The check for Partyka Construction will be held until the maintenance bond is posted.
The Tax Collector did not present any resolutions.
The DPW Report from Mr. Kadezabek was acknowledged. Mr. Matheny noted that Mr. Kadezabek would be going on vacation, and Jason Silverthorn will be appointed Acting DPW Superintendent in his absence.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mr. Kneski provided copies of an article from Innovative Municipal Projects, Inc. on a type of liquid additive to road salt, which is environmental friendly. He did not have an indication of the cost, however. Mr. Matheny will pass the information along to Acting DPW Superintendent Kadezabek for review. Some discussion took place about the Nitrous II product, which is a liquid material mounted in tanks and mixes with the salt during application to prevent the salt from bouncing and allows the salt to adhere to the paving. Mayor Tatsch spoke about a past seminar he attended in Hillsborough about brine applications; if salt is wet with a hose prior to application, it will dramatically reduce the bounce and sticks to the road.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, Continued
Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, spoke about a new classification for rural historic districts; it will give new protections, and it is currently used in Tewksbury and Bedminster. She felt that this could also be used as a “push back” to the County on the road project. An ordinance would be required to proceed with the designation.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made by Mr. Kneski, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:05 p.m.
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Teresa R. Stahl, RMC/CMC
Municipal Clerk