The regular meeting of the East Amwell Township Committee was called to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Mayor Peter Kneski, Deputy Mayor Linda F. Lenox, and Committee members Patricia Cregar, Timothy Martin and C. Larry Tatsch. Township Administrator Timothy Matheny and Attorney Richard Cushing were 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 4, 2009, and a meeting notice published in the Hunterdon County Democrat issue of January 8, 2009. 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 May 12, 2009.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
RECOGNITION OF FORMER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE MEMBER JACK BALINT
Mayor Kneski called for a moment of silence in observance of the loss of former Township Committee member Jack Balint.
Mayor Kneski recognized the widow of Jack Balint, Courtenay Balint, in the audience, accompanied by a friend. He commented on Jack's service to the community, and he read a resolution into the record.
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RESOLUTION #74-09
WHEREAS, the Township of East Amwell has been fortunate to have known Jack Balint as a resident of our municipality for over 40 years, and in that time Jack touched the lives of many of the citizens of the Township; and
WHEREAS, the life of Jack Balint was brim filled with activities, spanning from his business endeavors in the communications and real estate industries to his philanthropic activities, including his service as a volunteer fireman and Fire Police Officer, a member of the Hunterdon County Parks and Recreation Committee, a former member of the East Amwell Township School Board, a member of the Flemington Elks Lodge, and a long time volunteer with the Hunterdon County Mr. Fix-It Program; and
WHEREAS, Jack Balint was a four term member of the East Amwell Township Committee, beginning his service in 1985 and serving at various intervals until 1998, including serving as Mayor of the Township in 1991 and Deputy Mayor in 1992, and during these terms his leadership and dedication to the residents of East Amwell were strongly displayed, including but not limited to several remarkable successes, such as setting up the LOSAP Incentive Program for Volunteer Fireman, being involved in the creation of the Amwell Valley Business Association, acquiring the land for and assisting with the development of the Marion F. Clawson Memorial Park, and assisting in the creation of Autumn in East Amwell as a community celebration; and
WHEREAS, everyone who encountered Jack was touched by his professionalism, his low-key demeanor, his strong values, his ability to serve the public across political lines, and his great knack for wrapping himself around any project, any mission, or any request and giving his all, for which the community and the county have benefited tremendously;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell, that they hereby mourn the loss of Jack Balint as one of the Township's dedicated leaders and wish his family their heartfelt sympathy.
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Mr. Tatsch moved the approval of the resolution, adding that he worked with Jack together at Mobil, and he got to know him when their offices were next to each other and they were able to chat. Mr. Tatsch said that “Jack was a real gentleman, soft spoken, but a person of action.” In later years, he was impressed with the great job Jack did in getting Clawson Park built, and being "a smoothing agent" to make sure that the contractors were able to do their jobs to get the work done and to make sure the Township received documents they needed. Mr. Tatsch stated that he was very saddened by Jack's death, that he was pleased to know him, and that the Township is a better place because of his actions. Mayor Kneski agreed with these comments. Ms. Lenox seconded the motion to approve the resolution, and it was carried unanimously.
Mrs. Balint was overwhelmed, but commented that Jack was very proud of his accomplishments, and he was devoted to the Township.
AGENDA REVIEW
Two items of correspondence were added: 5/12 Letter from East Amwell Township F/LOSP to the SADC re: Continuation of Efforts to Obtain County Cost Share on Municipal PIG Applications and 5/13 The College of New Jersey notice of a Sustainability Conference at Rider College on June 5 & 6.
Under Unfinished Business, the Release of the Mainteancne Bond for Three Kids Enterprises, Block 16/L 1.01 will move up on the agenda immediately following the Special Committee Report from the Clawson Park Advisory Committee.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. The Township Committee will hold a special meeting on May 21, 2009, at 7:30 p.m. to hold
the public hearing on the 2009 Municipal Budget and to award M & R Material Bids.
Contact the Clerk for Details at tstahl@eastamwelltownship.com
B. Municipal Offices will be closed on May 25, 2009 in observance of Memorial Day.
C. There will be a presentation at the May 28, 2009, Regular Township Committee by Abigail
Jones, from North Jersey Resource Conservation and Development, on a River Friendly
Farm Certification Program. The public is invited to attend.
D. There will also be a presentation at the May 28, 2009, Township Committee meeting on
Sourland Smart Growth, led by Sourland Planning Council and other Participating
Organizations
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
April 2, 2009 Special Minutes (Budget): A correction was offered by Treasurer Luhrs on page two, under The Ridge at Back Brook taxes, change the amount from $8,400 to "approximately $84,000." Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Tatsch, and it was carried to accept the correction with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
April 9, 2009, Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Tatsch, and carried with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
April 9, 2009, Executive Minutes (Potential Litigation, Acquisition, Advice from the Attorney, and Contracts) were approved on a motion by Mr. Tatsch, seconded by Mr. Martin, and carried with one abstention, Ms. Lenox.
April 23, 2009, Special Minutes (Interview) were approved on a motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Martin, and carried with two abstentions, Mrs. Cregar and Mr. Tatsch.
April 23, 2009, Regular Minutes were approved on a motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Martin, and carried with two abstentions, Mrs. Cregar, and Mr. Tatsch with a correction on page 2, paragraph 5, line 8, changing "reconsider" to "reconsidered."
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (for Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda)
Richard Thayer, 18 Mountain Road, said he lived and owned property in the vicinity of the former Piazza property, stating that the property was sold in May 2007 and there were three days of non-stop tree removal with tracked vehicles leaving huge holes on the ground. Last Saturday, another tree company came in to remove large trees on the road frontage. He commented on ordinances in place to control tree removal to protect the mountain, and he asked where are the rules. Mr. Matheny was asked to look into the matter. Mr. Thayer stated that he did register a complaint in 2007, and he received no response. He commented on the strict regulations in place to prohibit clear cutting, noting his attendance during the ordinance process. Mr. Thayer mentioned that lot in question is a small lot, and he questioned what the property owner was building.
Mr. Tatsch said, "It saddens us to see tree cutting taking place,” and the ordinance is in place to protect the forest. He stated that if any resident witnesses tree cutting, they should contact the Township, and "we will take it seriously and take action.” Mr. Thayer mentioned that he did call in 2007 when cutting previously occurred.
Glorianne Robbi, 154 Lambertville-Hopewell Turnpike, asked who should be called if the situation is on-going. Mayor Kneski commented on Zoning Officer and Township Engineer involvement being possible to assess the damage. Mayor Kneski commented on an illegal tree clearing on Lindbergh Road, which went to the Board of Adjustment, and the Township Engineer was involved; there was a resolution approved with a mitigation plan, to which the property owner had to adhere. Mayor Kneski said that the Zoning Officer was probably first point person, and residents should call the Clerk who will get in touch with him.
Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, said, as a follow up, Mr. Thayer should contact the police if cutting occurs after hours and on weekends. The police will respond and "start the chain in motion.”
Mr. Matheny will follow up with staff to look into Mr. Thayer's complaint.
Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mr. Tatsch, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
Mr. Tatsch commented on an ordinance adopted by the Township to require that property purchasers in the mountain area sign a form at closing to make them understand the special conditions, including tree-cutting prohibitions so that they would know up front and accept the responsibility. It is always difficult to find out about the clearing after the fact, and sometimes it does occur on weekends and at night. The ordinance will hopefully prevent issues in the future, although the ordinance did not exist in 2007.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES/PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
SPECIAL DISCUSSIONS - None
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS
CLAWSON PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE UPDATE BY COMMITTEE MEMBER PATRICIA CREGAR
Mrs. Cregar explained that it was a nice meeting on April 28, and attendance included Administrator Timothy Matheny, Toni Robbi, Bob Kadezabek, and Connie Hughes (who is a Master Gardener) They are hoping to build three small rain gardens to drain into the basin area, digging in late summer and planting in fall. Ms. Hughes will recruit volunteers from Somerset and Hunterdon County. Flower beds need to be weeded, and Mrs. Cregar wrote a letter to East Amwell Township School asking for 7th and 8th graders to volunteer. She also contacted a Girl Scout Leader to find troops to assist. There is lots of erosion, and Steve Souza met with Will Harrison; "they saw some things that will help," although there may be a charge for the work. A locked bulletin board was ordered, and the DPW will put it up by the gazebo. Another meeting is scheduled next week. Mrs. Cregar is preparing minutes from the last meeting.
Committee members thanked Mrs. Cregar for her presentation.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
RELEASE OF MAINTENANCE BOND - THREE KIDS ENTERPRISES, BLOCK 16/LOT 1.01 (See 5/4 Letter from Engineer O'Neal) Adam Lucarini, President of Three Kids Enterprises, was present during this discussion.
There was a 5/6 letter sent to Mr. Lucarini by the Clerk about insufficient funds in his escrow account to pay for engineering bills. Mr. Lucacrini explained that he was here tonight, not to say that he would not pay the outstanding bills, but to question the amount of the billing, stating that he did not see that $726.75 in billing should be generated to inspect the property and write a report.
Mr. Lucarini commented, with the following highlights: he has met all the criteria for the release of the bond for the property at 1080 Old York Road (the old pharmacy/post office building); he commented on the need to be cooperative during the development phase and "not wanting to make waves"; there was a landscaping plan approved by Frank Banisch, which Mr. O'Neal did not like, and additional architectural design costs were incurred; there was an issue with a curb which had to be jack-hammered out when Mr. O'Neal decided that he did not want it, and it cost "thousands of dollars and hours, " i.e., between $4,000-5,000 ; he felt that the inspection fees of $726.00 "were ludicrous"; Mr. Lucarini found himself "between a rock and a hard place," i.e., the letter of credit may not be released if the fees are not paid, and he will be "robbed with a swipe of a pen"; Mr. Lucarini wants to plant more flowers at the site, but he is hesitant to do anything until everything is finalized with the Township.
The Clerk explained the process of the original request from Hopewell Valley Bank to release the letter of credit, and Mr. O'Neal went to inspect conditions on two occasions. There was a second inspection and second letter of release. Mr. Lucarini further explained that Mr. O'Neal inspected in winter when mums were not cut back and new mulch was not in place. The flowers are now in bloom, and no plants were replaced. A question was raised about curbing placement and removal. Mr. Lucacrini explained its location and the engineer's requirements to remove the curb after it was in place, again stating that it cost $4,000-5,000 for the change. Mr. Lucarini stated that he has done what was asked of him, that the lot is improved, that there were over $100,000 in mistakes, but he kept doing what was asked and stuck with his project. Mayor Kneski commented on the release of the maintenance bond with a detailed accounting being entailed. Mr. Lucarini commented on the bond costing thousands of dollars, and he wanted a detailed bill for the costs incurred.
Mr. Cushing explained that there is an escrow law, which provides for an appeal process if there is a dispute; the appeals are heard by the Construction Board of Appeals at the County as an independent authority. Mr. Lucarini has the right to contest the issue at that level, and Mr. O'Neal has the opportunity to provide factual information while the Township Committee also has the right to raise any issues.
Mr. Lucarini commented on trying to finish the project. He also does not want to pay more attorney fees to retrieve the $726.00 or spend more time doing so "to do it right." Further comments were exchanged between the Township Committee, Mr. Cushing, and Mr. Lucarini, including the possibility of paying the outstanding amount and discussing the billing with the engineer while the money is held in escrow. Ms. Lenox commented that Mr. Lucarini was given many requirements during the development process, which he met. Mayor Kneski explained that the maintenance bond or letter of credit cannot be released until all outstanding fees are paid; if the outstanding fees are placed in the escrow account, the Township will have an opportunity to speak with Mr. O'Neal about the bill. The escrow law process with an appeal option was again mentioned to Mr. Lucarini; Mr. Lucarini commented negatively on ending up with more bills "…and justifying all the mistakes…."
Mr. Tatsch explained that the Township Committee cannot deal with Mr. Lucarini's previous issues, and he was supportive of Mr. Cushing's recommendation. Mr. Tatsch made a motion to recommend that Mr. Lucarini place the outstanding fees into escrow, return the bond, and find out about the billing amount requested from the engineer; Ms. Lenox seconded the motion, and it was carried unanimously. Mr. Lucarini agreed to provide a check to the Clerk this evening, and the engineer will be questioned about the bill.
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
FARMLAND/OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION: Present during this discussion were Glorianne Robbi and Judy Conard. Treasurer Jane Luhrs was also in attendance.
1) Gutowski/Paulson, Block 35.01/L. 37: Property on Lindbergh Road:
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RESOLUTION #75-09
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 possible land acquisition; 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,
___________________________
Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Motion by Mr. Tatsch, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Executive session began at 8:15 p.m.
The regular session resumed at 8:30 p.m.
Mrs. Robbi, Mrs. Conard, and Mrs. Luhrs left the meeting at this time.
RECYCLING COMMITTEE Chairman Will Harrison and member Sande Katz (in the audience) were in attendance. Mr. Harrison introduced Ms. Katz as the newest member of the Recycling Committee.
1) 4/16 Request for Input on Possible Shared Service to Meet Requirements of the Solid Waste Management Plan, Including Recycling Compliance Officer. Mr. Harrison emphasized that the Township Committee was not being asked for a binding resolution through the County, and he noted that a newspaper article (i.e., Hunterdon County Democrat article) was misleading. Only two townships have responded to date that they are interested in a shared recycling officer. Mr. Harrison commented on time taken going through a system, and discussions have been taking place at Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) meetings. Mr. Harrison also noted that an ordinance is coming, but there were no details to discuss tonight. He recommended that the governing body tell the County that East Amwell Township was interested in joint enforcement and possibly having a certified recycling coordinator. Mr. Harrison also noted that the Township would be able to "opted out" if conditions were too onerous, and the Township could take over responsibilities itself.
Mr. Harrison further explained that salary for the person would have to be discussed, including the possibility that the County would pay 50% and participating municipalities would make up the additional 50%, hopefully by a per capita rate. Mr. Harrison felt that once the municipality decided to participate, they may be bound for a year at a minimum since withdrawing before that time would be a burden on those municipalities still in the program.
Mr. Tatsch and Ms. Lenox supported the position of letting the County know about the Township's interest. Ms. Lenox thanked Mr. Harrison for all his efforts in attending meetings and looking into recycling matters for the municipality. Mr. Harrison commented on trying to make reports succinct and brief; he also noted that once the ordinance is discussed, there will be "a bit of reading." He stated that they are working on the current version of the ordinance, which is pretty much complete. It will incorporate East Amwell Township, New Jersey, and Hunterdon County information with some basic tenants in order to have a uniform ordinance. Mr. Harrison explained that some municipalities will have ordinances for waste and recycling, and East Amwell's ordinance will be strictly for recycling.
Mrs. Cregar agreed that the Township should consider participating for at least the year. Mr. Martin noted that the intent of the position is one of a shared service, and the Township is not interested in their own enforcement. The position would entail an educational element also; it was unclear whether the person would use enforcement on a resident who is not recycling or whether the Township would find its own way to deal with residents.
Mayor Kneski agreed that it would be a good shared service position for local and county participation, and he supported the idea.
Mrs. Cregar commented on knowing Will Harrison for forty years, on Will’s “doing things right,” and she made a motion to support the position of advising Hunterdon County that East Amwell Township is interested in participating in the shared service proposal of the Municipal Recycling Compliance Officer. Mr. Tatsch seconded the motion.
Mr. Cushing stated that he lives in Lambertville, and that municipality has been co-mingling recycling with city pick-up service, which was more economical than having a private hauler and resulted in a reduction of tipping fees at the end of the year. Mr. Harrison commented on having more control if a program is a municipal one; he agreed that Lambertville is the leading recycling municipality in the county, and "they are doing a great job."
The motion to notify the County was carried unanimously. Mr. Harrison will notify Alan Johnson by email, and the Clerk will notify the County. Mr. Harrison stated that the May 15 deadline is not a mandate.
Mr. Harrison was asked to "keep the reports coming!"
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
1) Sustainable Jersey Designation: This item will be tabled until later in the evening until Environmental Commission Member Dart Sageser arrives.
COAH (AFFORDABLE HOUSING)
1) 4/27/09 Letter from NJ COAH on Receipt of Petition for Substantive Certification The letter from the state acknowledging receipt of the petition and the requested documentation was noted for filing. For the Record, the public may comment on the submission until June 14, 2009, as detailed in the legal notice in the April 30, 2009, Hunterdon County Democrat.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR'S UPDATE
1) Clawson House Grant Meeting with Kat Cannelongo: Kat Cannelongo recently met with Mr. Matheny and Mr. Tatsch to discuss the grant application for the house, which was not funded this year. Ms. Cannelongo contacted the state for information on making the application more appealing in future years, and they provided specific information, including using more historical materials for siding and windows. Ms. Cannelongo also has a friend who is a rehabilitation architect and works for a New York firm; she will be providing feedback to Ms. Cannelongo at a future time. Ms. Cannelongo also provided information that the grant program is only available every other year, not every year; in the meantime, she will be looking for other grant opportunities.
2) Energy Audit: Receipt of 5/5 Letter from NJ Clean Energy with Approval to Proceed: Mr. Matheny explained that approval to proceed with the agreement with Concord Engineering Group, Inc. was given by NJ Clean Energy. The Township will receive 75% of the cost of the audit, or $3,349.50. Ms. Lenox asked when the audit would start and be completed; Mr. Matheny explained the scope of work is relatively small, and based on size, it should be done quickly. Mayor Kneski also explained that it would depend on how quickly staff is able to feed information to the audit firm. The Clerk will provide Ms. Lenox and Laura Lewis of the Environmental Commission information on the audit.
3) Complaint about ATV Traffic on North Hill Road: Mr. Matheny forwarded the recent complaint to Lieutenant Skelton at the Kingwood State Police Barracks on May 5. He explained that the ATV riders and other motorists are getting more aggressive, including cutting locks and trespassing. Mr. Matheny has advised residents not to confront the vehicle drivers, but if they are able to get license plates, it would be helpful. He suggested that they call the State Police when incidents occur. Some discussion was held on whether the Pipeline company will prosecute trespassers; Mr. Matheny explained that the property must be posted and the company would have to sign complaints. Mr. Tatsch provided information on infra-red, camouflage cameras with long lasting batteries, which the pipeline company may be able to purchase for $200 or so. Mr. Matheny suggested that it should be up to the State Police to decide how to pursue the matter.
4) Road Projects Update: Weather conditions have had an effect on roadwork. Sweeping took four days to complete due to equipment failure. The crew is focusing on Lindbergh and Back Brook Roads doing patching before the planned road work. The crew will be going to Lindbergh Road to replace a cross pipe around the curve on the road; according to reports from the speed trailer, 10 a.m. is a good time to do the work since traffic volume is lower at the dangerous location. The DPW is also considering the possibility of doing the work on a Saturday instead. The Department has shifted their hours from 6:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at this time.
5) QPA Course: Mr. Matheny has completed the five week program of the third level of the three level course for the Qualified Purchasing Agent (QPA) Program. The next course will be an accounting course. He commented on the requirements for the QPA, including the fact that he has held the title of Purchasing Agent for three years as Township Administrator (by ordinance), and with his Master's degree he will obtain additional credits towards the certification.
6) HART Ride Your Bike To Work Event: Employees Cindy Hooven, Pam Dymek, Jane Luhrs, Terri Stahl, and Tim Matheny participated in the program by riding their bikes from Jane Luhrs house to the Township Building on May 11, and "a good time was had by all!"
RESOLUTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION
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RESOLUTION #76-09
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 potential litigation, litigation, and to receive advice from the Township Attorney; 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,
___________________________
Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Motion by Ms. Lenox, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution at 9:00 p.m.
The Committee took a five-minute break, and the executive session began at 9:05 p.m.
The regular meeting resumed at 9:40 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS
REQUEST BY EAST AMWELL RESIDENTS TO USE CLAWSON PARK FOR "GIRLS ON THE RUN" TWO MONTH ORGANIZED PROGRAM - See 5/10 Email from Christine Rosikiewicz.
Ms. Rosikiewicz explained that the program began in 1996 in the southern states, divided into segments for girls in grades 3 - 5 and 6 - 8. They meet as a group (8 - 15 girls) twice a week and cover topics such as body image and bulling, and then participate in organized games and sports, including running. The program session runs about 10 - 12 weeks, and it is a non-competitive program. There are currently programs at Delaware Township, Barley Sheaf, and in Raritan, and Ms. Rosikiewicz and her co-leader would like to use Clawson Park for their program on Tuesdays and Fridays from 4 to 5 p.m. from mid-September to mid-November. The girls would use the pavilion and then run.
Mr. Tatsch had earlier requested further information, and he felt comfortable that this was not a league sport. He determined that when the girls jogged, it was not deterring others from using the park. Since it was only a dozen or so girls, a permit was not required. Ms. Rosikiewicz said that the group is flexible, and they would meet "on any patch of grass" or in the gazebo, and the program would be tightly run. There is no money transactions involved at her level (i.e., enrollment runs through the corporation). Ms. Rosikiewicz also explained that the Raritan program meets at Mine Brook Park.
Mrs. Cregar asked Ms. Rosikiewicz whether she considered using the school, elaborating that her daughter was involved with a program in South Jersey which had to be approved by the school board. Ms. Rosikiewicz commented that one of the leaders must be certified in CPR and a recommendation was made to run the event through the Township.
Further discussion took place, and it was agreed that the program was more in tune with a group of girls getting together for a jog, similar to a scouting program, i.e., it does not meet the “league sports level,” and the program should be welcomed at the site. The consensus was that the program was duly noted, and no action was required.
Mr. Cushing left the meeting at this time.
RESOLUTION REQUIRED FOR APPLICATION TO THE NJ DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT GRANT TE ARRA 00165 PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE VILLAGE OF RINGOES
The Clerk noted for the record that the name of the project was changed by the engineer from "Streetscape" to "Pedestrian" improvements. There was a resolution prepared by the Treasurer to commit $5,000 to a reserve for preliminary expenses account, and the title should be changed accordingly.
Mayor Kneski explained that the County did the engineering for the work in the downtown area, and this would be a joint County and Township project with the Township applying for grant funding for the project.
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RESOLUTION #77 -09
WHEREAS, the Township Committee of the Township of East Amwell acknowledges the need to fund preliminary professional expenses to determine the scope, the cost and funding sources for the capital project known as Pedestrian Improvements for the Village of Ringoes,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that an amount of $5,000.00 shall be appropriated from the Capital Improvement Fund to set up the Reserve for Preliminary Expenses for Pedestrian Improvements for the Village of Ringoes.
By Order of the Township Committee,
__________________________
Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Motion by Mr. Tatsch, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
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RESOLUTION #78-09
APPROVAL TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION AND
EXECUTE A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE NEW JERSEY
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE TE-ARRA –
EAST AMWELL TOWNSHIP – 00165 PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
FOR THE VILLAGE OF RINGOES
WHEREAS, an electronic application was submitted through the NJ Department of Transportation’s System of Administering Grants Electronically (SAGE) on May 13, 2009; 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 TE – ARRA - East Amwell Township -00165 Pedestrian Improvements for the Village of Ringoes 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,
___________________
Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution to submit the SAGE application.
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS, Continued
1) Sustainable New Jersey Designation: Ms. Lenox explained that she attended the recent Environmental Commission meeting when Angela Clerico (a representative from Banisch Associates) gave a presentation on the program. The Master Plan has many elements involved with sustainability. There is a very competitive grant program (i.e., 9 grants of $10,000 each), which the Commission did not recommend pursuing at this time.
The Clerk's Office did gather information on the program, which they originally forwarded to the Environmental Commission for their input. Mrs. Stahl explained that a May 14 deadline Mr. Sageser mentioned in his recent memo pertained only to the support of grant applications, which did not apply to the Township. The deadline to apply for the program itself is September 9, 2009.
Ms. Lenox suggested looking further into the program to make sure that it is indeed a voluntary one. Mrs. Stahl explained that a first step in the program is the appointment of a Green Team, which may or not be an Environmental Commission. She suggested that she and Ms. Lenox discuss possible Green Team members and get further information, including information from Mr. Sageser, before the resolution is offered for approval at a future meeting.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Frances Gavigan, 123 Wertsville Road, stated that the County provided a paved ramp for horse crossing on Wertsville Road.
Ms. Gavigan stated that a meeting with Den Hollander was canceled due to a death in the family. She spoke at length about the judicial ruling which resulted in the property owner's loss of right to farm and the lack of jurisdiction by the County Agriculture Development Board (CADB) on stormwater and environmental issues. She suggested that the Township Committee watch closely because of "collatoral" issues with the right to farm.
Ms. Gavigan suggested that the Township review the handling of the entire Three Kids Enterprises application, not just the last $725.63. She stated, "This is not the first time she has heard complaints … here-say and opinions… about the engineering." She commented on having one engineer for all business and the consideration of an alternative or a Plan B person. She also commented on problems with Clawson Park engineering and the development of an extra detention basin, which "Ilona said" was not required and was over-engineered. She recommended that the Township Committee "look at the whole thing, tasks and bills, and give a smell test." She commented on doing a thorough investigation and on people telling her things.
Motion by Mr. Tatsch, seconded by Mrs. Cregar, and it was carried unanimously to close to the public.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
TREASURER LUHRS presented an emergency temporary resolution.
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RESOLUTION #79-09
Resolution To Amend the Temporary Budget
(As Attached to the Original Set of Minutes)
By Order of the Township Committee,
___________________________
Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Motion by Mrs. Cregar, seconded by Mr. Martin, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Bills of the evening and a statement of cash on hand were provided. Motion by Mr. Tatsch, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the bills of the evening.
Treasurer's Resolutions:
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RESOLUTION #80-09
WHEREAS, the Public Works Superintendent of the Township of East Amwell has approved the refund of the following driveway bond;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of East Amwell that the Treasurer is authorized to issue a refund check to the following applicant:
Applicant Amount of Refund
Suzanne Keller $2,500.00
By Order of the Township Committee,
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Peter Kneski, Mayor
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Motion by Mr. Martin, seconded by Ms. Lenox, and it was carried unanimously to approve the resolution.
Mrs. Luhrs presented the results of the May 14, 2009, Bond Anticipation Note Sale, as outlined in her May 14 memo to the Township Committee: "Bids received on the Note Sale held today on the Principal Amount of $1,000,000. TD Bank, 1.69%; Hopewell Valley Community Bank, 1.75%; Janney Montgomery Scott, 2.73899%; Fulton Financial Corp, 3.25%. The award was made to TD Bank; Closing will be May 21, 2009." Committee members commented on the strength of TD Bank.
All other Administrative Reports were noted for filing without comment.
CORRESPONDENCE
Ms. Lenox commended the Mayor on his April 30 letter to the Governor about the budget, and Mayor Kneski, in turn, thanked staff for their assistance. Today, the Clerk received a voice mail from “Alex” in the Governor's Office, acknowledging receipt of the letter.
Mr. Tatsch commented on the letter from the Feola's (for the record, see 4/23 agenda), stating that "their kudos" should not be taken lightly, and he felt that it was a "nice letter for all involved."
Committee members acknowledged the letter regarding EMT training funding issues.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, motion by Mr. Tatsch, seconded by Mr. Martin, 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