COAH Ordinance link:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45686435/COAH-Ordinance-Hearing-Dec-23
Lighting Ordinance link:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45686513/Lighting-Ordinance-Hearing-Dec-23
comments? questions? call or email me.
Scott
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010
November 22 - December 19, 2010
Apologies for not updating my blog in a timely manner. While the frequency of my blog updates does not compromise my effectiveness as a committeeman, it doesn’t provide you- the reader with a timely summary of my activities as a public official. Should my blog ever go over one month without an update…call the police!
Monday, November 29: Environmental Commission Meeting
The Environmental Commission commented on the proposed recycling ordinance that is presently before the Township Committee- they were going to provide the Committee with their comments in writing prior to the December 9 meeting but we did not receive them. The Commission was updated on the activities of the Land Use Board by Commission members Lisa Wood and Jennifer Fisher. The Commission discussed the proposed solar energy ordinance that is being prepared by the Land Use Board. Also discussed were ideas to inventory our township’s nature trails and the various grant opportunities available to achieve those goals. I asked the Commission to begin to prepare their budget for 2011 keeping in mind that it is going to be another tight year from a fiscal standpoint.
Tuesday November 30: SADC Workshop on Solar Energy Generation on Farms
The Hunterdon County Municipal Officers’ Association asked State Agricultural Development Committee (SADC) Executive Director Susan Craft to discuss on-farm solar energy generation. Ms. Craft was able to address solar energy generation on preserved and farmland assessed farms. You can find a copy of Ms. Craft’s presentation here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/45654640/SADC-Presentation-on-Solar-Energy-11-30-2010
In short, the SADC has imposed limits on the amount of energy a farmland assessed property can generate- no more than 10 acres in solar panels, 2 megawatts, and a limit of a 1:5 ratio of solar to agricultural / horticultural operations. The property owner must have a conservation plan approved by the Soil Conservation District that addresses aesthetics, impervious coverage, and environmental impacts. The SADC hasn’t yet adopted an agricultural management practice (AMP) for solar energy generation on farms; here is the link to the proposed AMP: http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/sadc/news/hottopics/Solar%20amp%20rule%20proposal.pdf
I found Ms. Craft’s talk very informative and it made me realize that much of this regulation is not yet solidified. Many towns in Hunterdon County- including Franklin- are working on solar energy ordinances and when the Township Committee entertains such an ordinance I will be taking the information I derived from Ms. Craft’s talk as part of my decision making process.
Monday December 6: Open Space Advisory Committee Meeting
Even though I am not on the Open Space Subcommittee, I felt it was important to attend this meeting of the OSAC. Three members were present- no quorum but there was no business that required official action. Those present gave me a solid background on the OSAC mission and some history on past land acquisitions. The OSAC is in need of members- if you have an interest in preserving Franklin’s open space and maintaining our rural character, the OSAC may be for you. One committee member stated that the OSAC isn’t the most glamorous committee … yes, it’s hard not to agree with that statement, but the OSAC does play an important role in Franklin. We also discussed the options of Franklin having a recreation park / field for its residents- I have heard this from many residents as well.
Tuesday December 7: Recreation Commission Meeting
The Recreation Commission reviewed their Halloween tailgate party and how they can improve their already successful event for next year. A discussion ensued about the youth basketball program- this year our program was combined with Clinton’s program- we are not able to use our school’s gym but Clinton has been kind enough to include us in their program. The Commission hopes to be back in our own school for next year’s program. The Commission decided tentative dates for the 2011 egg hunt (April 22), and the fishing derby (May 1). The Commission discussed their budgetary needs for 2011. Resident Martin Bercaw attended the meeting and expressed an interest in being appointed to the Commission. I agreed to help the Commission with preparing a recreation survey for a future municipal newsletter- this survey will ask residents about what recreation activities they would like to see in Franklin. The information from this survey will help both the Recreation Commission and the Planning Board who has been handed the task of preparing a recreation element to our township’s master plan.
Thursday December 9: Township Committee Meeting
Busy meeting- four ordinances, eleven resolutions, and a vote on a contract for the Department of Public Works.
The Committee agreed to adjourn Ordinance 2010-09 (recycling ordinance) to the December 23 meeting. Committee members still have questions about how this ordinance will be enforced, and the severity of the penalties for those who don’t abide by the rules. We have been told that if we do not adopt a recycling ordinance that meets the requirements of the Hunterdon County Solid Waste Management Plan, we face penalties of up to $3,000 a day. Other municipalities in Hunterdon are going through the same questioning such as Bloomsbury, Frenchtown, and Califon.
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/frenchtown_adopts_new_recyclin.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/11/bloosmbury_officials_criticize.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/califon_council_has_misgivings.html
We paid the bills… large ticket items include the 11/18 payroll ($46,703), the 12/03 payroll ($30,935), our November health care premium ($18,393), and our December health care premium ($17,722).
We approved the following resolutions:
• 2010-71: awarding a contract to International Salt for snow and ice control materials. We are part of a county cooperative pricing system and this resolution was required in order for us to be part of the cooperative purchase agreement. For those who are interested, the price of salt has decreased over the past 3 years- in 2009 we paid $67.80 a ton, in 2010 we paid $52.00 a ton, and in 2011 we will be paying $51.40 a ton.
• 2010-72: releasing a $57,144 maintenance bond for the Oak Summit Estates subdivision (Block 39, Lot 10).
• 2010-73: accepting a $262,585 bid from DeSantis Construction for the West Sidney Road Improvement Project, Phase 1.
• 2010-74: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $973.08 from a 2010 body armor grant from the NJ Dept. of Law & Public Safety.
• 2010-75: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $1,514.10 from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety “Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund”.
• 2010-76: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $4,000.00 from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety “Click It or Ticket” program.
• 2010-77: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $5,000.00 from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety” Holiday Over the Limit Under Arrest” program.
• 2010-78: cancelling three checks that have been either misplaced, lost, or destroyed: Kasper Disposal Services (#5146, $21.59), Municipal Clerk’s Association of Somerset County (#5669, $35.00), and a payroll check that was misplaced (#6587, $1,130.00).
• 2010-79: cancelling a $209.99 reserve in a closed grant fund account we had open for our Natural Resource Inventory Grant.
• 2010-80: refunding three property tax over payments: $30.00, $1,304.76, and $377.27.
• 2010-81: approving the North Hunterdon Municipal Court budget for 2011 ($512,227.15). Franklin’s share of this budget is $124,628.73 ($10,385.73 per month). Our 2010 monthly payments were $9,024.23.
• 2010-82: authorizing the North Hunterdon Municipal Court to appoint Robin Manfredi as the Certified Court Administrator for 2011 at a salary of $74,006.60. Ms. Manfredi’s salary for 2010 was $72,555.49.
Police Director Ken Mandoli submitted his November 2010 monthly report. 59 motor vehicle summonses and 103 warnings were issued. The Department conducted 19 investigations, investigated 59 incidents, received 80 radio calls, and 121 phone calls. There were four adult arrests.
Department of Public Works Supervisor Alan Dilley submitted his November 2010 monthly report. The majority of the work in November consisted of getting the snow equipment ready, clearing roadway shoulder basins, installing snow fences, delineating plow routes, and removing trees and limbs from the roadway. The Committee and the DPW union have been negotiating a contract agreement for most of 2010. In short, the contract calls for a 3 year term (1/10/10 – 12/31/12), 3% raises each year, no compensation for unused sick days, and unused vacation days to be redeemed at the current hourly rate by the end of each year. After an executive session that lasted from 9:30 PM until 10:10 PM we went back into public session and the contract came up for a vote; there was no one from the public present. To his credit Committeeman Tarshis was uncomfortable voting for the contract given the timing- he would rather have the vote take place at our December 23 meeting, earlier in the night. I too was uncomfortable with the timing of the vote, and the proposed raises cited in the agreement. A vote was called and the vote was 2-2 (Committeeman McGeary was absent) so the contract was not approved. The contract will most likely come up for another vote on December 23. Unless the raises are adjusted to a level that is more sensitive our economic climate I will continue to vote no on the contract.
Our Zoning Officer John Barczyk submitted his November monthly report- slow month: only 3 applications- one approval, one incomplete, and one denial. I must say though in his defense, each Tuesday night I visit the municipal building to see our employees, there is always someone in John’s office.
We authorized payment of $230.00 for newly elected Committeewomen Vigdis Austad and Susan Campbell to attend the NJ League of Municipalities Newly Elected Officials orientation. I took the same class last year and it is money well spent.
We received 3 quotes from vendors to upgrade the electric in the multi purpose room in the municipal building. The quotes ranged from $800 to $1,095; we agreed to table this project for now and possibly include a more encompassing electric upgrade to the municipal building as part of a capital improvement in 2011.
Three ordinances were introduced: 2010-11 Lighting Ordinance, 2010-12 suspending the COAH fee to existing residential structural improvements and expansions, and 2010-13 Solar Energy Systems. Since we received two of the three ordinances that day we were in no position to comment on them; all three were scheduled for a public hearing on December 23.
The solar energy ordinance can be viewed here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/45662473/Solar-Energy-Ordinance-for-Dec-23-Hearing
Sorry I am having trouble downloading the lighting and the COAH fee ordinance but it is available at the Clerk’s office. I will continue to attempt to download it onto my blog.
Sunday December 12: North Hunterdon EMS/Rescue Working Group
I attended an informational meeting on ways for north Hunterdon County municipalities to improve and reduce the costs of emergency medical services. Representatives from Hampton, Lebanon, Clinton Town, Clinton Township, High Bridge, and Franklin were in attendance. This meeting was strictly informational and is most likely one of a series of meetings that will attempt to cover the possibilities of sharing services, investigating the pros and cons of regionalization, ways to improve services, and ways to reduce costs in providing emergency medical services. This first step in openly discussing shared services / regionalization is just that- a first step. This group’s mission statement and how its recommendations impact municipalities remains t o be seen- that being said there is nothing yet to agree or disagree with but it is worth keeping an eye on and making sure that Franklin is at the table as our neighboring municipalities work towards a better, more efficient EMS system. I was glad to see three members of Quakertown Fire Company in attendance.
Monday, November 29: Environmental Commission Meeting
The Environmental Commission commented on the proposed recycling ordinance that is presently before the Township Committee- they were going to provide the Committee with their comments in writing prior to the December 9 meeting but we did not receive them. The Commission was updated on the activities of the Land Use Board by Commission members Lisa Wood and Jennifer Fisher. The Commission discussed the proposed solar energy ordinance that is being prepared by the Land Use Board. Also discussed were ideas to inventory our township’s nature trails and the various grant opportunities available to achieve those goals. I asked the Commission to begin to prepare their budget for 2011 keeping in mind that it is going to be another tight year from a fiscal standpoint.
Tuesday November 30: SADC Workshop on Solar Energy Generation on Farms
The Hunterdon County Municipal Officers’ Association asked State Agricultural Development Committee (SADC) Executive Director Susan Craft to discuss on-farm solar energy generation. Ms. Craft was able to address solar energy generation on preserved and farmland assessed farms. You can find a copy of Ms. Craft’s presentation here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/45654640/SADC-Presentation-on-Solar-Energy-11-30-2010
In short, the SADC has imposed limits on the amount of energy a farmland assessed property can generate- no more than 10 acres in solar panels, 2 megawatts, and a limit of a 1:5 ratio of solar to agricultural / horticultural operations. The property owner must have a conservation plan approved by the Soil Conservation District that addresses aesthetics, impervious coverage, and environmental impacts. The SADC hasn’t yet adopted an agricultural management practice (AMP) for solar energy generation on farms; here is the link to the proposed AMP: http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/sadc/news/hottopics/Solar%20amp%20rule%20proposal.pdf
I found Ms. Craft’s talk very informative and it made me realize that much of this regulation is not yet solidified. Many towns in Hunterdon County- including Franklin- are working on solar energy ordinances and when the Township Committee entertains such an ordinance I will be taking the information I derived from Ms. Craft’s talk as part of my decision making process.
Monday December 6: Open Space Advisory Committee Meeting
Even though I am not on the Open Space Subcommittee, I felt it was important to attend this meeting of the OSAC. Three members were present- no quorum but there was no business that required official action. Those present gave me a solid background on the OSAC mission and some history on past land acquisitions. The OSAC is in need of members- if you have an interest in preserving Franklin’s open space and maintaining our rural character, the OSAC may be for you. One committee member stated that the OSAC isn’t the most glamorous committee … yes, it’s hard not to agree with that statement, but the OSAC does play an important role in Franklin. We also discussed the options of Franklin having a recreation park / field for its residents- I have heard this from many residents as well.
Tuesday December 7: Recreation Commission Meeting
The Recreation Commission reviewed their Halloween tailgate party and how they can improve their already successful event for next year. A discussion ensued about the youth basketball program- this year our program was combined with Clinton’s program- we are not able to use our school’s gym but Clinton has been kind enough to include us in their program. The Commission hopes to be back in our own school for next year’s program. The Commission decided tentative dates for the 2011 egg hunt (April 22), and the fishing derby (May 1). The Commission discussed their budgetary needs for 2011. Resident Martin Bercaw attended the meeting and expressed an interest in being appointed to the Commission. I agreed to help the Commission with preparing a recreation survey for a future municipal newsletter- this survey will ask residents about what recreation activities they would like to see in Franklin. The information from this survey will help both the Recreation Commission and the Planning Board who has been handed the task of preparing a recreation element to our township’s master plan.
Thursday December 9: Township Committee Meeting
Busy meeting- four ordinances, eleven resolutions, and a vote on a contract for the Department of Public Works.
The Committee agreed to adjourn Ordinance 2010-09 (recycling ordinance) to the December 23 meeting. Committee members still have questions about how this ordinance will be enforced, and the severity of the penalties for those who don’t abide by the rules. We have been told that if we do not adopt a recycling ordinance that meets the requirements of the Hunterdon County Solid Waste Management Plan, we face penalties of up to $3,000 a day. Other municipalities in Hunterdon are going through the same questioning such as Bloomsbury, Frenchtown, and Califon.
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/frenchtown_adopts_new_recyclin.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/11/bloosmbury_officials_criticize.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/califon_council_has_misgivings.html
We paid the bills… large ticket items include the 11/18 payroll ($46,703), the 12/03 payroll ($30,935), our November health care premium ($18,393), and our December health care premium ($17,722).
We approved the following resolutions:
• 2010-71: awarding a contract to International Salt for snow and ice control materials. We are part of a county cooperative pricing system and this resolution was required in order for us to be part of the cooperative purchase agreement. For those who are interested, the price of salt has decreased over the past 3 years- in 2009 we paid $67.80 a ton, in 2010 we paid $52.00 a ton, and in 2011 we will be paying $51.40 a ton.
• 2010-72: releasing a $57,144 maintenance bond for the Oak Summit Estates subdivision (Block 39, Lot 10).
• 2010-73: accepting a $262,585 bid from DeSantis Construction for the West Sidney Road Improvement Project, Phase 1.
• 2010-74: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $973.08 from a 2010 body armor grant from the NJ Dept. of Law & Public Safety.
• 2010-75: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $1,514.10 from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety “Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund”.
• 2010-76: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $4,000.00 from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety “Click It or Ticket” program.
• 2010-77: inserting a “special item of revenue” into our municipal budget- $5,000.00 from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety” Holiday Over the Limit Under Arrest” program.
• 2010-78: cancelling three checks that have been either misplaced, lost, or destroyed: Kasper Disposal Services (#5146, $21.59), Municipal Clerk’s Association of Somerset County (#5669, $35.00), and a payroll check that was misplaced (#6587, $1,130.00).
• 2010-79: cancelling a $209.99 reserve in a closed grant fund account we had open for our Natural Resource Inventory Grant.
• 2010-80: refunding three property tax over payments: $30.00, $1,304.76, and $377.27.
• 2010-81: approving the North Hunterdon Municipal Court budget for 2011 ($512,227.15). Franklin’s share of this budget is $124,628.73 ($10,385.73 per month). Our 2010 monthly payments were $9,024.23.
• 2010-82: authorizing the North Hunterdon Municipal Court to appoint Robin Manfredi as the Certified Court Administrator for 2011 at a salary of $74,006.60. Ms. Manfredi’s salary for 2010 was $72,555.49.
Police Director Ken Mandoli submitted his November 2010 monthly report. 59 motor vehicle summonses and 103 warnings were issued. The Department conducted 19 investigations, investigated 59 incidents, received 80 radio calls, and 121 phone calls. There were four adult arrests.
Department of Public Works Supervisor Alan Dilley submitted his November 2010 monthly report. The majority of the work in November consisted of getting the snow equipment ready, clearing roadway shoulder basins, installing snow fences, delineating plow routes, and removing trees and limbs from the roadway. The Committee and the DPW union have been negotiating a contract agreement for most of 2010. In short, the contract calls for a 3 year term (1/10/10 – 12/31/12), 3% raises each year, no compensation for unused sick days, and unused vacation days to be redeemed at the current hourly rate by the end of each year. After an executive session that lasted from 9:30 PM until 10:10 PM we went back into public session and the contract came up for a vote; there was no one from the public present. To his credit Committeeman Tarshis was uncomfortable voting for the contract given the timing- he would rather have the vote take place at our December 23 meeting, earlier in the night. I too was uncomfortable with the timing of the vote, and the proposed raises cited in the agreement. A vote was called and the vote was 2-2 (Committeeman McGeary was absent) so the contract was not approved. The contract will most likely come up for another vote on December 23. Unless the raises are adjusted to a level that is more sensitive our economic climate I will continue to vote no on the contract.
Our Zoning Officer John Barczyk submitted his November monthly report- slow month: only 3 applications- one approval, one incomplete, and one denial. I must say though in his defense, each Tuesday night I visit the municipal building to see our employees, there is always someone in John’s office.
We authorized payment of $230.00 for newly elected Committeewomen Vigdis Austad and Susan Campbell to attend the NJ League of Municipalities Newly Elected Officials orientation. I took the same class last year and it is money well spent.
We received 3 quotes from vendors to upgrade the electric in the multi purpose room in the municipal building. The quotes ranged from $800 to $1,095; we agreed to table this project for now and possibly include a more encompassing electric upgrade to the municipal building as part of a capital improvement in 2011.
Three ordinances were introduced: 2010-11 Lighting Ordinance, 2010-12 suspending the COAH fee to existing residential structural improvements and expansions, and 2010-13 Solar Energy Systems. Since we received two of the three ordinances that day we were in no position to comment on them; all three were scheduled for a public hearing on December 23.
The solar energy ordinance can be viewed here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/45662473/Solar-Energy-Ordinance-for-Dec-23-Hearing
Sorry I am having trouble downloading the lighting and the COAH fee ordinance but it is available at the Clerk’s office. I will continue to attempt to download it onto my blog.
Sunday December 12: North Hunterdon EMS/Rescue Working Group
I attended an informational meeting on ways for north Hunterdon County municipalities to improve and reduce the costs of emergency medical services. Representatives from Hampton, Lebanon, Clinton Town, Clinton Township, High Bridge, and Franklin were in attendance. This meeting was strictly informational and is most likely one of a series of meetings that will attempt to cover the possibilities of sharing services, investigating the pros and cons of regionalization, ways to improve services, and ways to reduce costs in providing emergency medical services. This first step in openly discussing shared services / regionalization is just that- a first step. This group’s mission statement and how its recommendations impact municipalities remains t o be seen- that being said there is nothing yet to agree or disagree with but it is worth keeping an eye on and making sure that Franklin is at the table as our neighboring municipalities work towards a better, more efficient EMS system. I was glad to see three members of Quakertown Fire Company in attendance.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
November 1 - November 21, 2010
As I am writing this blog entry from my office this afternoon I see a hot air balloon working its way across the horizon. Few yellow and orange leaves remain on the trees after this week’s wind, and as the sun begins its descent I have a sense of comfort and peace living in Franklin Township. Do you feel that way too?
November 2: Election Day
Congratulations to Committeewomen-Elect Vigdis Austad and Sue Campbell. Here is a link to their website which describes who they are, their background and experiences, and what motivated them to run for elected office:
http://www.ftvote.com/Site/Meet_the_Township_Committee_Candidates.html
I look forward to working with Ms. Austad, Ms. Campbell in 2011.
November 10: Land Use Board
A good portion of the meeting was spent discussing the draft Comprehensive Farmland Preservation Plan (CFPP). The CFPP was prepared through a cooperative effort between the Township Committee, Land Use Board, Agricultural Advisory Committee, Open Space Advisory Committee, the Hunterdon Land Trust Alliance, and Franklin resident volunteers. Adoption of the CFPP into our master plan would allow us to apply for and receive funding from the State Agricultural Development Committee (SADC) through state-sponsored Municipal Planning Incentive Grants. It is my understanding from the SADC that we are eligible for $1.25 million in state funding to purchase development easements from qualified farms with no local match required. Adoption of this plan is important if we wish for Franklin to continue to protect its farmland and agriculture. Anyone who wishes to see a copy of the draft can do so in the municipal building, Board Secretary’s office, or email me and I will provide you a PDF copy. The Board discussed the plan and chose to carry the vote to their December 8 meeting.
The Board also reviewed a revised draft of solar / wind power ordinance. At this point I do not anticipate the Committee receiving a finished ordinance in 2010. My message to the Land Use Board and Environmental Commission on this matter is to do your due diligence and prepare the best ordinance possible- it is your job to use your expertise and forward the best ordinance to the Committee. In turn, it is our job to determine how the policy is suitable for the township. Keep us informed of your progress and we will keep communication lines open with you and the public.
November 11: Township Committee
Committeemen McGeary and Tarshis were absent so between Mayor Jacukowicz, Committeeman Tarshis, and myself, we managed to conduct the town’s business in short time. We adjourned from our regular meeting at 8:21- by far the shortest meeting I’ve participated in since I have been on Committee. Kudos for Committeewoman-Elect Austad for being in attendance. Highlights from the meeting included:
1. Adopting the October 28, 2010 work session and executive session meeting minutes.
2. We authorized the payment of bills through November 11, 2010. Big ticket items included: 11/5 municipal payroll ($37,271), and municipal attorney fees ($6,199)
3. Police / Public Safety Director Ken Mandoli gave his October report; highlights included 4 adult arrests, 100 motor vehicle summonses, and 140 motor vehicle warnings. Mr. Mandoli reported 186 cars at the Trunk or Treat event, and he informed us that Class II Special Officers volunteered 43 hours of their time to the township, reducing the need for overtime costs. Mr. Mandoli also provided us with a copy of his 2010 year end report (10/1/09 – 9/30/10) for the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). The report stated that our Emergency Operations Plan is current through 2014. His report included a summary of events, programs and training that the OEM and our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) were involved with during the year. Mr. Mandoli informed us that with the submission of his OEM report to the State Police, the township qualified for a $5,000 grant from the State.
4. We adopted Resolution 2010-70 re-appointing Ken Mandoli to serve as Coordinator of the Office of Emergency Management for a 3 year term, effective October 1, 2010 at an annual salary at $1,266.00.
5. We adopted Resolution 2010-71 to authorize ADR Towing, Ralph Anthony Automotive, Ray Fisher Auto Body, and Superior Towing and Transport to provide towing and storage of motor vehicles for 2011 and 2012.
6. We finally authorized the Mayor to sign the agreement for deer carcass removal services for 2010. Re-authorizing should be much simpler in 2011 now that the legal framework has already been laid out and has passed the smell test… so you don’t have to!
7. We received the Public Works October monthly report. Highlights included budget preparations for 2011, police vehicle service and repair, mounting snow equipment on vehicles, snow fence installation, maintaining the recycling center, and ditch/shoulder/drain/basin work on Baker Road, Old Franklin School Road, and Oak Grove Road. A pre-construction meeting took place on November 19 for phase 1 of West Sidney Road improvements.
8. At 8:00 PM the Committee switched hats and became the Board of Health where we adopted our October 14 meeting minutes then heard a septic system waiver request for Block 135, Lot 23; 207 Cherryville Road. The property owner was requesting a design waiver to allow the septic disposal bed to be located within 12 inches of the regional water table when 24 inches is required. Soil logs demonstrated that the water table is 18 inches below grade. The owner proposes to mound the system so that the disposal bed will still be 24 inches above the water table. Our township engineer reviewed the plans and cited no objection to the design waiver and we subsequently granted the request.
November 17 & 18: League of Municipalities Conference
I attended the 95th Annual League of Municipalities Conference in Atlantic City. I attended 5 sessions and managed to cover the convention floor twice. The sessions I attended were:
“A Review and Discussion of Governor Christie’s Property Tax Relief Toolkit”;
“Pension Reforms- What do They Mean?”;
“Elected Officials Refresher on Budget, Procurement, and Finance Purchasing Issues”;
“Elected Officials Refresher on Ethics, Public Meetings, Open Public Records, and Civility in Public Discourse”; and
“Capital Spending in an Uncertain Economy”
I have attended the Conference since the mid 1990s in different capacities- as a vendor, as a municipal planning board member, as a county planner, as a municipal planner, and now as an elected official. The Conference provides attendees the opportunity to network, learn from their peers, and take back ideas to our communities. From the exhibitors on the convention floor I picked up information on website providers, green products and sustainable energy companies, insurance providers, affordable housing consultants, and public works equipment companies.
Overall the League Conference is a good experience for those involved in government; I recommend that elected officials go at least once while they are in office and that you make the most of your stay. When I was not in workshop sessions I was visiting exhibitors; I would be more than happy to share my notes and brochures with anyone who expresses an interest in getting an up close and detailed report on each of the sessions and exhibitor material.
November 2: Election Day
Congratulations to Committeewomen-Elect Vigdis Austad and Sue Campbell. Here is a link to their website which describes who they are, their background and experiences, and what motivated them to run for elected office:
http://www.ftvote.com/Site/Meet_the_Township_Committee_Candidates.html
I look forward to working with Ms. Austad, Ms. Campbell in 2011.
November 10: Land Use Board
A good portion of the meeting was spent discussing the draft Comprehensive Farmland Preservation Plan (CFPP). The CFPP was prepared through a cooperative effort between the Township Committee, Land Use Board, Agricultural Advisory Committee, Open Space Advisory Committee, the Hunterdon Land Trust Alliance, and Franklin resident volunteers. Adoption of the CFPP into our master plan would allow us to apply for and receive funding from the State Agricultural Development Committee (SADC) through state-sponsored Municipal Planning Incentive Grants. It is my understanding from the SADC that we are eligible for $1.25 million in state funding to purchase development easements from qualified farms with no local match required. Adoption of this plan is important if we wish for Franklin to continue to protect its farmland and agriculture. Anyone who wishes to see a copy of the draft can do so in the municipal building, Board Secretary’s office, or email me and I will provide you a PDF copy. The Board discussed the plan and chose to carry the vote to their December 8 meeting.
The Board also reviewed a revised draft of solar / wind power ordinance. At this point I do not anticipate the Committee receiving a finished ordinance in 2010. My message to the Land Use Board and Environmental Commission on this matter is to do your due diligence and prepare the best ordinance possible- it is your job to use your expertise and forward the best ordinance to the Committee. In turn, it is our job to determine how the policy is suitable for the township. Keep us informed of your progress and we will keep communication lines open with you and the public.
November 11: Township Committee
Committeemen McGeary and Tarshis were absent so between Mayor Jacukowicz, Committeeman Tarshis, and myself, we managed to conduct the town’s business in short time. We adjourned from our regular meeting at 8:21- by far the shortest meeting I’ve participated in since I have been on Committee. Kudos for Committeewoman-Elect Austad for being in attendance. Highlights from the meeting included:
1. Adopting the October 28, 2010 work session and executive session meeting minutes.
2. We authorized the payment of bills through November 11, 2010. Big ticket items included: 11/5 municipal payroll ($37,271), and municipal attorney fees ($6,199)
3. Police / Public Safety Director Ken Mandoli gave his October report; highlights included 4 adult arrests, 100 motor vehicle summonses, and 140 motor vehicle warnings. Mr. Mandoli reported 186 cars at the Trunk or Treat event, and he informed us that Class II Special Officers volunteered 43 hours of their time to the township, reducing the need for overtime costs. Mr. Mandoli also provided us with a copy of his 2010 year end report (10/1/09 – 9/30/10) for the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). The report stated that our Emergency Operations Plan is current through 2014. His report included a summary of events, programs and training that the OEM and our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) were involved with during the year. Mr. Mandoli informed us that with the submission of his OEM report to the State Police, the township qualified for a $5,000 grant from the State.
4. We adopted Resolution 2010-70 re-appointing Ken Mandoli to serve as Coordinator of the Office of Emergency Management for a 3 year term, effective October 1, 2010 at an annual salary at $1,266.00.
5. We adopted Resolution 2010-71 to authorize ADR Towing, Ralph Anthony Automotive, Ray Fisher Auto Body, and Superior Towing and Transport to provide towing and storage of motor vehicles for 2011 and 2012.
6. We finally authorized the Mayor to sign the agreement for deer carcass removal services for 2010. Re-authorizing should be much simpler in 2011 now that the legal framework has already been laid out and has passed the smell test… so you don’t have to!
7. We received the Public Works October monthly report. Highlights included budget preparations for 2011, police vehicle service and repair, mounting snow equipment on vehicles, snow fence installation, maintaining the recycling center, and ditch/shoulder/drain/basin work on Baker Road, Old Franklin School Road, and Oak Grove Road. A pre-construction meeting took place on November 19 for phase 1 of West Sidney Road improvements.
8. At 8:00 PM the Committee switched hats and became the Board of Health where we adopted our October 14 meeting minutes then heard a septic system waiver request for Block 135, Lot 23; 207 Cherryville Road. The property owner was requesting a design waiver to allow the septic disposal bed to be located within 12 inches of the regional water table when 24 inches is required. Soil logs demonstrated that the water table is 18 inches below grade. The owner proposes to mound the system so that the disposal bed will still be 24 inches above the water table. Our township engineer reviewed the plans and cited no objection to the design waiver and we subsequently granted the request.
November 17 & 18: League of Municipalities Conference
I attended the 95th Annual League of Municipalities Conference in Atlantic City. I attended 5 sessions and managed to cover the convention floor twice. The sessions I attended were:
“A Review and Discussion of Governor Christie’s Property Tax Relief Toolkit”;
“Pension Reforms- What do They Mean?”;
“Elected Officials Refresher on Budget, Procurement, and Finance Purchasing Issues”;
“Elected Officials Refresher on Ethics, Public Meetings, Open Public Records, and Civility in Public Discourse”; and
“Capital Spending in an Uncertain Economy”
I have attended the Conference since the mid 1990s in different capacities- as a vendor, as a municipal planning board member, as a county planner, as a municipal planner, and now as an elected official. The Conference provides attendees the opportunity to network, learn from their peers, and take back ideas to our communities. From the exhibitors on the convention floor I picked up information on website providers, green products and sustainable energy companies, insurance providers, affordable housing consultants, and public works equipment companies.
Overall the League Conference is a good experience for those involved in government; I recommend that elected officials go at least once while they are in office and that you make the most of your stay. When I was not in workshop sessions I was visiting exhibitors; I would be more than happy to share my notes and brochures with anyone who expresses an interest in getting an up close and detailed report on each of the sessions and exhibitor material.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
October 18 – October 31, 2010
On Wednesday October 20 I met with planners Rick Steffey and Bill Millette of the Hunterdon County Planning Board to discuss the status of farmland and open space preservation in Franklin Township. The County offers to meet with municipalities on a monthly basis to discuss the status of ongoing farmland and open space preservation projects as well as anything else that might pop up during conversation. This was my first meeting with these gentlemen – I was filling in for Mayor Jacukowicz and Open Space Chairman John Demarrais who could not attend. I used the meeting as a fact finding mission for myself and I look forward to attending more of these meetings.
Our county planners are helpful and wiling to offer assistance when they can. As a planner myself, and a former county planner (Union County), I commend the Hunterdon County planners on scheduling these meetings on a monthly basis- open communication is key to cooperation and I am looking forward to taking advantage of this opportunity the County has given us. If there are any issues Franklin residents would like me to present to the County please contact me and I will do all that I can to assist.
I missed the October 25 Environmental Commission meeting. My review of their meeting minutes revealed they are working on a tree ordinance, GIS trails mapping, and they want to participate in the review of a recycling ordinance that the Committee has been discussing.
On Saturday October 23 I joined the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts in their annual roadside litter patrol. I’ll be honest- picking up litter at 8:30 AM on a Saturday wasn’t the first thing I wanted to be doing but as the morning progressed I found the experience rewarding and downright therapeutic. I got to know more Franklin residents, with two sons I am sure at least one will be interested in scouting, and being able to walk some of our most beautiful rural roads on a crisp, fall Saturday morning while beautifying them by removing trash was rewarding in its own way. Many folks driving by slowed down to thank us for the work we were doing.
I want to thank Jim Foran for accommodating my desire to be part of this project- I was the only non-scout affiliated person in the crowd and Jim made me feel comfortable enough to want to come back the next time the scouts decide to do litter patrol.
Wednesday October 27 was the Land Use Board meeting where we heard and approved an application for a lot line adjustment (minor subdivision) on Block 10, Lot 11. I had to recuse myself from the second hearing of the night involving Block 10, Lot 26. The Land Use Board has a few draft ordinances in the works, in particular I was given a copy of a draft solar / wind power ordinance.
Thursday October 28 was our Township Committee workshop session. Highlights from the meeting included:
1. Adoption of the 10/14 executive session and regular meeting minutes
2. Payment of the bills. The 800 pound gorillas in this check run included: transfer of tax levy to the Franklin Board of Education ($801,185), transfer of tax levy to the North Hunterdon/Voorhees High School ($529,748), 4th quarter county taxes ($425,455), 10/22 municipal payroll ($45,544), 4th quarter county open space tax ($44,187), 4th quarter county library tax ($35,895), December billing for the North Hunterdon Municipal Court ($9,024), and we paid our township attorney $8,161. The check control registry is public information so if you want to see it in its entirety, stop by the clerk’s office.
3. We approved resolution 2010-69 supporting the “Over the Limit Under Arrest 2010 Year End Statewide Crackdown” whereby we pledge to increase awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving; our police officers will exercise increased impaired driving enforcement from December 6, 2010 through January 2, 2011.
4. We discussed a recycling ordinance (again!)…. It was formally introduced and referred to the Environmental Commission for their review. The public hearing on the ordinance will be on December 9, 2010.
5. We approved to spend (an amount not to exceed) $6,500 for a sound system upgrade for the meeting room. The upgrade consists of a digital recording system, wall mounted speakers, new microphones, transcription software package, installation and set up costs. The lowest quote that suited our needs was from Gramco Business Communications. The two other bids received were in the amount of $10,460, and $15,710. This sound system will be used not only by the Committee, but also by the Land Use Board, and any other group that chooses to conduct a public meeting in the municipal building. The system will enable us to have audio files of the meeting available on the township website and we can do away with the cassette tapes.
6. Our zoning officer reported on the zoning applications received year to date. For 2010 our zoning officer has reviewed 63 zoning applications. October’s applications included an equipment shelter and new antennas to the existing monopole at 95 Quakertown Road, and a residential roof mounted solar array.
7. The Committee reluctantly accepted longtime Land Use Board member Kurt Fischer’s resignation from the Land Use Board. I’ve known Kurt since I began on the Land Use Board in 2006; he was a valuable asset to the Board, his knowledge and dedication will be sorely missed and I wish him the best. Mayor Jacukowicz appointed alternate Board member David Dallas to Kurt’s unexpired term.
8. Our township planner gave us an update on the Appellate Court decision on COAH’s Third Round Rules and its impact on Franklin Township’s Third Round Plan. A copy of the document can be viewed here:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/40781910/101026-COAH-Update
COAH stands for the Council on Affordable Housing and they are a state agency whose purpose is to ensure that each NJ municipality provides its fair share of affordable housing. The history of COAH goes back to the mid 1970s, it is not my intent to give the background or express my personal opinion about the topic of affordable housing; my purpose here is to keep Franklin residents informed on our legal obligations and the cost to the taxpayer. The Appellate Division invalidated COAH’s third round growth share methodology and directed COAH to come up with a new way to determine each local government’s fair share obligation within 5 months. How does this affect Franklin? Our COAH assigned 65 unit obligation number has now been invalidated; we should get a new number within 5 months. Our township planner’s letter spells out our situation succulently, for now the Committee has chosen to “stay pat” until the rest of the cards fall- once we have a new affordable obligation number to work with we can either contend it or decide to work with it. What upsets me is that all of our work and dollars that went into our first 3rd round report was also invalidated- we are not getting refunded the money we paid to prepare our reports, and as the statewide policy continues to morph, we have to continue paying our consultants to stay on top of the issues or we risk being sued by developers.
9. We received a letter from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection informing us that we stand to lose $137,427 in Green Acres funding. We were awarded the funds in September 2008 and there has been “no movement on the Township’s part to advance a land acquisition project since August 2009”. If we wish to pursue the acquisition of a parcel related to our Open Space Plan we need to inform Green Acres by December 1. The Committee is taking this letter seriously; our finance officer is going to inform us about how much money is in our open space accounts and we will then decide whether it is prudent to proceed with open space purchases at this time. The letter concluded by stating that our decision not to proceed with spending the $137,427 would not jeopardize future Green Acres funding.
My personal commentary on matter: I support open space and farmland preservation- keeping Franklin rural and agricultural is the reason why I first volunteered on the Land Use Board, it is why I am active with Rural Awareness, and it is also one of the reasons why I decided to run for public office. Our audit ending December 2009 states we have $279,881 in our open space account. We are anticipated to collect an additional $280,000 this year. We still need to pay down past open space acquisitions- Summit Manor ($425,000), and we need to start making payments on the $1,122,996 we spent in 2006 on acquiring development easements on a 70 acre parcel on Sidney Road. I understand from the Open Space Advisory Committee that we have $117,000 due from the County open space tax. There are also other opportunities to obtain matching funds for open space acquisition. All this said, I am a firm believer of moving ahead with a “clean slate”- we need to control our debt that has accumulated from past open space purchases. If we have to wait out a round of open space acquisition in order to manage our finances that are already making an impact on our budget that is something we are going to have to do now. While I support open space acquisition it must be done in a way that has minimal impact on our daily operating expenses and if we have outstanding debt that still requires financing I am uncomfortable moving forward and passing on the debt to future Committees because it will be the taxpayers who will get burnt. If I have any of my facts misconstrued I invite your comment; I understand the Open Space Advisory Committee is meeting in early December and I look forward to meeting with them to discuss how we can work together in managing our past debt while planning for the future.
I had the honor to be a judge for the costume contest at the Township Trunk or Treat Tailgate Party held on Friday, October 29, sponsored by the Recreation Commission and the Police Department. The CERT (Certified Emergency Response Team) and the Quakertown Fire Department did a great job with vehicle and crowd control. In the spirit of Halloween I arrived in a pretty outrageous costume; I just hope the pictures took don’t come back to haunt me! If you missed Trunk or Treat you missed out on a lot of fun! After the costume contest everyone headed to the tailgate party where I witnessed the talents of our residents who decorated their vehicles in the spirit of Halloween. I grew up in suburban Milltown, New Jersey and when it came to trick-or-treating there were many houses close together and we made out like bandits on Halloween. When my wife and I moved to Franklin one of the things I thought about was “well there goes my children’s chance at trick-or-treating, we will have to drive to Clinton or Flemington for decent trick or treating.” I was pleasantly surprised at the Trunk or Treat turnout, the friendliness of the attendees, and the whole atmosphere at the Trunk or Treat Tailgate Party; now I can rest easy knowing that my children will have fine memories of Halloween in their hometown just as I did.
Our county planners are helpful and wiling to offer assistance when they can. As a planner myself, and a former county planner (Union County), I commend the Hunterdon County planners on scheduling these meetings on a monthly basis- open communication is key to cooperation and I am looking forward to taking advantage of this opportunity the County has given us. If there are any issues Franklin residents would like me to present to the County please contact me and I will do all that I can to assist.
I missed the October 25 Environmental Commission meeting. My review of their meeting minutes revealed they are working on a tree ordinance, GIS trails mapping, and they want to participate in the review of a recycling ordinance that the Committee has been discussing.
On Saturday October 23 I joined the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts in their annual roadside litter patrol. I’ll be honest- picking up litter at 8:30 AM on a Saturday wasn’t the first thing I wanted to be doing but as the morning progressed I found the experience rewarding and downright therapeutic. I got to know more Franklin residents, with two sons I am sure at least one will be interested in scouting, and being able to walk some of our most beautiful rural roads on a crisp, fall Saturday morning while beautifying them by removing trash was rewarding in its own way. Many folks driving by slowed down to thank us for the work we were doing.
I want to thank Jim Foran for accommodating my desire to be part of this project- I was the only non-scout affiliated person in the crowd and Jim made me feel comfortable enough to want to come back the next time the scouts decide to do litter patrol.
Wednesday October 27 was the Land Use Board meeting where we heard and approved an application for a lot line adjustment (minor subdivision) on Block 10, Lot 11. I had to recuse myself from the second hearing of the night involving Block 10, Lot 26. The Land Use Board has a few draft ordinances in the works, in particular I was given a copy of a draft solar / wind power ordinance.
Thursday October 28 was our Township Committee workshop session. Highlights from the meeting included:
1. Adoption of the 10/14 executive session and regular meeting minutes
2. Payment of the bills. The 800 pound gorillas in this check run included: transfer of tax levy to the Franklin Board of Education ($801,185), transfer of tax levy to the North Hunterdon/Voorhees High School ($529,748), 4th quarter county taxes ($425,455), 10/22 municipal payroll ($45,544), 4th quarter county open space tax ($44,187), 4th quarter county library tax ($35,895), December billing for the North Hunterdon Municipal Court ($9,024), and we paid our township attorney $8,161. The check control registry is public information so if you want to see it in its entirety, stop by the clerk’s office.
3. We approved resolution 2010-69 supporting the “Over the Limit Under Arrest 2010 Year End Statewide Crackdown” whereby we pledge to increase awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving; our police officers will exercise increased impaired driving enforcement from December 6, 2010 through January 2, 2011.
4. We discussed a recycling ordinance (again!)…. It was formally introduced and referred to the Environmental Commission for their review. The public hearing on the ordinance will be on December 9, 2010.
5. We approved to spend (an amount not to exceed) $6,500 for a sound system upgrade for the meeting room. The upgrade consists of a digital recording system, wall mounted speakers, new microphones, transcription software package, installation and set up costs. The lowest quote that suited our needs was from Gramco Business Communications. The two other bids received were in the amount of $10,460, and $15,710. This sound system will be used not only by the Committee, but also by the Land Use Board, and any other group that chooses to conduct a public meeting in the municipal building. The system will enable us to have audio files of the meeting available on the township website and we can do away with the cassette tapes.
6. Our zoning officer reported on the zoning applications received year to date. For 2010 our zoning officer has reviewed 63 zoning applications. October’s applications included an equipment shelter and new antennas to the existing monopole at 95 Quakertown Road, and a residential roof mounted solar array.
7. The Committee reluctantly accepted longtime Land Use Board member Kurt Fischer’s resignation from the Land Use Board. I’ve known Kurt since I began on the Land Use Board in 2006; he was a valuable asset to the Board, his knowledge and dedication will be sorely missed and I wish him the best. Mayor Jacukowicz appointed alternate Board member David Dallas to Kurt’s unexpired term.
8. Our township planner gave us an update on the Appellate Court decision on COAH’s Third Round Rules and its impact on Franklin Township’s Third Round Plan. A copy of the document can be viewed here:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/40781910/101026-COAH-Update
COAH stands for the Council on Affordable Housing and they are a state agency whose purpose is to ensure that each NJ municipality provides its fair share of affordable housing. The history of COAH goes back to the mid 1970s, it is not my intent to give the background or express my personal opinion about the topic of affordable housing; my purpose here is to keep Franklin residents informed on our legal obligations and the cost to the taxpayer. The Appellate Division invalidated COAH’s third round growth share methodology and directed COAH to come up with a new way to determine each local government’s fair share obligation within 5 months. How does this affect Franklin? Our COAH assigned 65 unit obligation number has now been invalidated; we should get a new number within 5 months. Our township planner’s letter spells out our situation succulently, for now the Committee has chosen to “stay pat” until the rest of the cards fall- once we have a new affordable obligation number to work with we can either contend it or decide to work with it. What upsets me is that all of our work and dollars that went into our first 3rd round report was also invalidated- we are not getting refunded the money we paid to prepare our reports, and as the statewide policy continues to morph, we have to continue paying our consultants to stay on top of the issues or we risk being sued by developers.
9. We received a letter from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection informing us that we stand to lose $137,427 in Green Acres funding. We were awarded the funds in September 2008 and there has been “no movement on the Township’s part to advance a land acquisition project since August 2009”. If we wish to pursue the acquisition of a parcel related to our Open Space Plan we need to inform Green Acres by December 1. The Committee is taking this letter seriously; our finance officer is going to inform us about how much money is in our open space accounts and we will then decide whether it is prudent to proceed with open space purchases at this time. The letter concluded by stating that our decision not to proceed with spending the $137,427 would not jeopardize future Green Acres funding.
My personal commentary on matter: I support open space and farmland preservation- keeping Franklin rural and agricultural is the reason why I first volunteered on the Land Use Board, it is why I am active with Rural Awareness, and it is also one of the reasons why I decided to run for public office. Our audit ending December 2009 states we have $279,881 in our open space account. We are anticipated to collect an additional $280,000 this year. We still need to pay down past open space acquisitions- Summit Manor ($425,000), and we need to start making payments on the $1,122,996 we spent in 2006 on acquiring development easements on a 70 acre parcel on Sidney Road. I understand from the Open Space Advisory Committee that we have $117,000 due from the County open space tax. There are also other opportunities to obtain matching funds for open space acquisition. All this said, I am a firm believer of moving ahead with a “clean slate”- we need to control our debt that has accumulated from past open space purchases. If we have to wait out a round of open space acquisition in order to manage our finances that are already making an impact on our budget that is something we are going to have to do now. While I support open space acquisition it must be done in a way that has minimal impact on our daily operating expenses and if we have outstanding debt that still requires financing I am uncomfortable moving forward and passing on the debt to future Committees because it will be the taxpayers who will get burnt. If I have any of my facts misconstrued I invite your comment; I understand the Open Space Advisory Committee is meeting in early December and I look forward to meeting with them to discuss how we can work together in managing our past debt while planning for the future.
I had the honor to be a judge for the costume contest at the Township Trunk or Treat Tailgate Party held on Friday, October 29, sponsored by the Recreation Commission and the Police Department. The CERT (Certified Emergency Response Team) and the Quakertown Fire Department did a great job with vehicle and crowd control. In the spirit of Halloween I arrived in a pretty outrageous costume; I just hope the pictures took don’t come back to haunt me! If you missed Trunk or Treat you missed out on a lot of fun! After the costume contest everyone headed to the tailgate party where I witnessed the talents of our residents who decorated their vehicles in the spirit of Halloween. I grew up in suburban Milltown, New Jersey and when it came to trick-or-treating there were many houses close together and we made out like bandits on Halloween. When my wife and I moved to Franklin one of the things I thought about was “well there goes my children’s chance at trick-or-treating, we will have to drive to Clinton or Flemington for decent trick or treating.” I was pleasantly surprised at the Trunk or Treat turnout, the friendliness of the attendees, and the whole atmosphere at the Trunk or Treat Tailgate Party; now I can rest easy knowing that my children will have fine memories of Halloween in their hometown just as I did.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
September 26 – October 17, 2010
I am as happy to report that all of our students are back in the township school.
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/10/franklin_students_will_be_back.html
Isn’t it amazing when the news is good there are no comments from the public but when things get sticky or controversial everyone is a backseat driver or Monday afternoon quarterback? I guess it is human nature; as an elected official I do hear more complaints than compliments which is the nature of the beast but let’s remember we are a community which shouldn’t preclude anyone from hurling a nicety every once in a while!
I would like to congratulate our Public Works Department on enabling us to receive a $7,061 recycling tonnage grant (2008) from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. We ranked 4th in the county in monies received- great job guys! To view an article summarizing the grant results see:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/hunterdon_towns_get_122000_in.html
Next year’s municipal budget is on my mind and apparently I am not the only elected official who is thinking 2011 already. The Hunterdon County Freeholders have already begun 2011 budget discussions:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/hunterdon_freeholders_to_begin.html
Municipal governments are expected to pay an additional 12% in health benefits for their employees and contribute an additional 22% into the pension system. With revenues down, how are we expected to keep our local tax rate flat while keeping a respectable surplus? I have my own ideas and I invite your comments as well. Municipal officials await action in Trenton for guidance and tools:
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20101013_N_J__towns_work_on_budgets_with_scant_guidance.html
========
Well we had our first frost advisory a last week, baseball playoffs are in full swing (no pun intended) and tomorrow is my birthday- fall is definitely upon us. I am honored to report to the residents of Franklin what I have been up to over the past few weeks:
Monday, September 27: Environmental Commission
While I am not the Committee liaison (Robert Shockley is), I attend the meetings as a member of the public. Before I was elected to the Committee I was the Environmental Commission Chairman and our Commission consists of a great group of smart and able volunteers who care a lot about Franklin so I will support them in any way I can.
The Commission reviewed the draft tree ordinance provided by the Land Use Board, they discussed topics of interest to include in the next township newsletter, I reminded them to think about next year’s budget, we discussed the school construction project, and some potential grant applications the township can apply for in the near future.
Tuesday, October 5: Recreation Commission
The annual Trunk or Treat Tailgate Party is being held Friday, October 29, 2010, beginning at 6:00 PM at the Clinton Elks Club on Sidney Road. Open to all Franklin residents, here is the flyer:
http://www.franklin-twp.org/Trunk_Treat_tailgate_flyer2010.pdf
The Commission welcomed new member Rich Cavallaro and lamented the departure of Sherrie Peterson. Mark Mroz was elected Chairman and as Committee liaison I look forward to working with Chairman Mroz and the rest of the Commission on their budget requests and ensuring their events are successful and well attended by Franklin residents. If anyone is interested in participating in the “Over 30” basketball program, of the youth basketball program, please contact me or our township clerk and either of us will put you in contact with the right people.
Thursday, October 7: Rural Awareness & Saturday, October 9, Rural Awareness Harvest Home Tour
I attended the October Rural Awareness meeting and the meeting was dominated by planning and preparation for the October 9 Harvest Home Tour. I volunteered for the tour, had a chance to meet many Franklin residents, and I got to see some very nice homes. Not only do all the volunteers deserve a hand for the work they did, but the homeowners deserve special appreciation for opening their beautiful homes to the public.
Thursday, October 14, Township Committee & Board of Health
With Mayor Jacukowicz not in attendance Deputy Mayor McGeary took charge of the gavel and ran the meeting like a pro. Business we tackled that night included the following:
1. We approved our September 23 work session and executive session meeting minutes.
2. Our Tax Collector reported receipt of $102,986.06 which included $9,411.81 in 2009 taxes, AND $4,37 in 2011 pre-pay taxes!
3. We paid the bills by approving the check control register covering 9/10/10 through 10/14/10. We disbursed $290,417.86; big ticket items included: $102,000.00 (capital appropriations), $48,329.00 (9/23 municipal payroll), $36,808.10 (10/08 municipal payroll), $18,474.95 (3rd quarter employer disability), $18,000.00 (Quakertown Volunteer Fire Company), $13,500.00 (auditor William Colantano), and $12,255.00 (pole building for the Public Works property). As always, our check control register is public information and available at the clerk’s office. I invite all those interested to review these bills, ask questions, and provide suggestions on how we can reduce our spending.
4. Our Police Director submitted his September 2010 report. A special note was made in the police report that the Class II Special Officers volunteered 70 hours of their time in September; the same officers donated 85 hours of their time in August. Thank you! The Department issued 181 vehicle summonses and 212 warnings.
5. The Quakertown Fire Company Division of Emergency Medical Services provided us with a 3rd quarter 2010 report. In the 3rd quarter of 2010 QFC EMS responded to 53 service calls and the QFC responded to 63 fire-related emergencies. The report included response times which revealed that average en route time for the ambulance or first-responder vehicles was less than 2 minutes 30 seconds. I want to thank Chief Bradley Patkochis for keeping up on his quarterly reports to the Committee and for being responsive to our requests for information.
6. We approved Resolution 2010-64 accepting a grant award of $5,000 from the NJ Dept. of Law and Public Safety.
7. We approved Resolution 2010-65 accepting the resignation of Sherrie Peterson from the Recreation Commission which also included a resolution of appreciation for her contribution to the Commission between 2003 and 2010.
8. We approved Resolution 2010-66 imposing a Halloween curfew from 10/27/10 through 11/1/10 – anyone younger than 18 must be off the streets unless accompanied by an adult. Side note: as a young, young buck I used to dread the ol Halloween curfew in my hometown and now I am reading the curfew resolution of my hometown into the public record- funny how things turn out sometimes.
9. Of 3 bidders for the West Sidney Road Improvement Phase I project, we awarded the contract to DeSantis Construction in the amount of $262,585.47. The two losing bids were in the amount of $277,733, and $296,234.
10. Our Public Works Director submitted his September 2010 report. Highlights from the report include asphalt repair on the following roadways: Baker, Hogback, Old Franklin School, Pine Hill, Pleasant View, River, Upper Kingtown, and West Sidney.
11. As the Board of Health we approved our September 23 meeting minutes, approved Resolution 2010-67 concerning a septic design for Block 34, Lot 6, and we did not approve Ordinance 2010-08 “Authorizing the registration of septic system businesses providing septic system services in the township”. A little commentary on this ordinance: I came to the meeting thinking I was going to approve this ordinance. Have septic pumpers register with the township, at the end of each year they submit to us a list of tanks they pumped in the township, this enables us to keep track of who has pumped which helps us with our own record keeping. We keep permit records of electrical, plumbing, and construction work performed by registered contractors, why not septic maintenance as well?
This is why we have public meetings and decisions to pass laws are not made in back rooms! After listening to members of the public in attendance and my fellow Committee member’s concerns, I was inclined to vote “no” for various reasons. I think we can achieve the goal of maintaining clean aquifers through other means, including educating residents, and in the spirit of less government perhaps now is not the time to impose any new regulations on the public, or burden our municipal employees with any additional record keeping. In light of the “no” vote, I ask the Environmental Commission to work on progressive ways to educate our citizens on septic and well upkeep / maintenance.
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/10/franklin_students_will_be_back.html
Isn’t it amazing when the news is good there are no comments from the public but when things get sticky or controversial everyone is a backseat driver or Monday afternoon quarterback? I guess it is human nature; as an elected official I do hear more complaints than compliments which is the nature of the beast but let’s remember we are a community which shouldn’t preclude anyone from hurling a nicety every once in a while!
I would like to congratulate our Public Works Department on enabling us to receive a $7,061 recycling tonnage grant (2008) from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. We ranked 4th in the county in monies received- great job guys! To view an article summarizing the grant results see:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/hunterdon_towns_get_122000_in.html
Next year’s municipal budget is on my mind and apparently I am not the only elected official who is thinking 2011 already. The Hunterdon County Freeholders have already begun 2011 budget discussions:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/10/hunterdon_freeholders_to_begin.html
Municipal governments are expected to pay an additional 12% in health benefits for their employees and contribute an additional 22% into the pension system. With revenues down, how are we expected to keep our local tax rate flat while keeping a respectable surplus? I have my own ideas and I invite your comments as well. Municipal officials await action in Trenton for guidance and tools:
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20101013_N_J__towns_work_on_budgets_with_scant_guidance.html
========
Well we had our first frost advisory a last week, baseball playoffs are in full swing (no pun intended) and tomorrow is my birthday- fall is definitely upon us. I am honored to report to the residents of Franklin what I have been up to over the past few weeks:
Monday, September 27: Environmental Commission
While I am not the Committee liaison (Robert Shockley is), I attend the meetings as a member of the public. Before I was elected to the Committee I was the Environmental Commission Chairman and our Commission consists of a great group of smart and able volunteers who care a lot about Franklin so I will support them in any way I can.
The Commission reviewed the draft tree ordinance provided by the Land Use Board, they discussed topics of interest to include in the next township newsletter, I reminded them to think about next year’s budget, we discussed the school construction project, and some potential grant applications the township can apply for in the near future.
Tuesday, October 5: Recreation Commission
The annual Trunk or Treat Tailgate Party is being held Friday, October 29, 2010, beginning at 6:00 PM at the Clinton Elks Club on Sidney Road. Open to all Franklin residents, here is the flyer:
http://www.franklin-twp.org/Trunk_Treat_tailgate_flyer2010.pdf
The Commission welcomed new member Rich Cavallaro and lamented the departure of Sherrie Peterson. Mark Mroz was elected Chairman and as Committee liaison I look forward to working with Chairman Mroz and the rest of the Commission on their budget requests and ensuring their events are successful and well attended by Franklin residents. If anyone is interested in participating in the “Over 30” basketball program, of the youth basketball program, please contact me or our township clerk and either of us will put you in contact with the right people.
Thursday, October 7: Rural Awareness & Saturday, October 9, Rural Awareness Harvest Home Tour
I attended the October Rural Awareness meeting and the meeting was dominated by planning and preparation for the October 9 Harvest Home Tour. I volunteered for the tour, had a chance to meet many Franklin residents, and I got to see some very nice homes. Not only do all the volunteers deserve a hand for the work they did, but the homeowners deserve special appreciation for opening their beautiful homes to the public.
Thursday, October 14, Township Committee & Board of Health
With Mayor Jacukowicz not in attendance Deputy Mayor McGeary took charge of the gavel and ran the meeting like a pro. Business we tackled that night included the following:
1. We approved our September 23 work session and executive session meeting minutes.
2. Our Tax Collector reported receipt of $102,986.06 which included $9,411.81 in 2009 taxes, AND $4,37 in 2011 pre-pay taxes!
3. We paid the bills by approving the check control register covering 9/10/10 through 10/14/10. We disbursed $290,417.86; big ticket items included: $102,000.00 (capital appropriations), $48,329.00 (9/23 municipal payroll), $36,808.10 (10/08 municipal payroll), $18,474.95 (3rd quarter employer disability), $18,000.00 (Quakertown Volunteer Fire Company), $13,500.00 (auditor William Colantano), and $12,255.00 (pole building for the Public Works property). As always, our check control register is public information and available at the clerk’s office. I invite all those interested to review these bills, ask questions, and provide suggestions on how we can reduce our spending.
4. Our Police Director submitted his September 2010 report. A special note was made in the police report that the Class II Special Officers volunteered 70 hours of their time in September; the same officers donated 85 hours of their time in August. Thank you! The Department issued 181 vehicle summonses and 212 warnings.
5. The Quakertown Fire Company Division of Emergency Medical Services provided us with a 3rd quarter 2010 report. In the 3rd quarter of 2010 QFC EMS responded to 53 service calls and the QFC responded to 63 fire-related emergencies. The report included response times which revealed that average en route time for the ambulance or first-responder vehicles was less than 2 minutes 30 seconds. I want to thank Chief Bradley Patkochis for keeping up on his quarterly reports to the Committee and for being responsive to our requests for information.
6. We approved Resolution 2010-64 accepting a grant award of $5,000 from the NJ Dept. of Law and Public Safety.
7. We approved Resolution 2010-65 accepting the resignation of Sherrie Peterson from the Recreation Commission which also included a resolution of appreciation for her contribution to the Commission between 2003 and 2010.
8. We approved Resolution 2010-66 imposing a Halloween curfew from 10/27/10 through 11/1/10 – anyone younger than 18 must be off the streets unless accompanied by an adult. Side note: as a young, young buck I used to dread the ol Halloween curfew in my hometown and now I am reading the curfew resolution of my hometown into the public record- funny how things turn out sometimes.
9. Of 3 bidders for the West Sidney Road Improvement Phase I project, we awarded the contract to DeSantis Construction in the amount of $262,585.47. The two losing bids were in the amount of $277,733, and $296,234.
10. Our Public Works Director submitted his September 2010 report. Highlights from the report include asphalt repair on the following roadways: Baker, Hogback, Old Franklin School, Pine Hill, Pleasant View, River, Upper Kingtown, and West Sidney.
11. As the Board of Health we approved our September 23 meeting minutes, approved Resolution 2010-67 concerning a septic design for Block 34, Lot 6, and we did not approve Ordinance 2010-08 “Authorizing the registration of septic system businesses providing septic system services in the township”. A little commentary on this ordinance: I came to the meeting thinking I was going to approve this ordinance. Have septic pumpers register with the township, at the end of each year they submit to us a list of tanks they pumped in the township, this enables us to keep track of who has pumped which helps us with our own record keeping. We keep permit records of electrical, plumbing, and construction work performed by registered contractors, why not septic maintenance as well?
This is why we have public meetings and decisions to pass laws are not made in back rooms! After listening to members of the public in attendance and my fellow Committee member’s concerns, I was inclined to vote “no” for various reasons. I think we can achieve the goal of maintaining clean aquifers through other means, including educating residents, and in the spirit of less government perhaps now is not the time to impose any new regulations on the public, or burden our municipal employees with any additional record keeping. In light of the “no” vote, I ask the Environmental Commission to work on progressive ways to educate our citizens on septic and well upkeep / maintenance.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
September 19 – September 25, 2010
On Monday September 20, I met with Franklin resident Frank Bell (http://www.bellarchitect.com) to draft out our application for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant rebate program. The program is sponsored by New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program and no-match funding up to $20,000 per municipality is available for energy audits of municipal-owned buildings. The applications are due by December 31 but we are going to get ours in by the first or second week of October. I will keep you posted on the progress of this grant application through this blog site.
On Tuesday, September 21 I met with our Financial Officer Ron Matthews to draft out our Local Government Best Practices Checklist that is due back to the State Department of Community Affairs on October 1. This checklist consists of 88 questions each NJ municipality is required to answer “yes, no, or not applicable”; the number of “yes” answers will depend on the percentage of final State aid payout the town gets. Here are our results: we scored 50 yes points which resulted in a 98% of final State aid payout- what does that mean in dollars? Our total State aid is about $275,000; our final payout is 5% or $13,750; and 98% of that is $13,475, so we lost $275 in State aid. I am not one to discount any dollar loss but I thought our loss was going to be a lot more than $275.
On Wednesday, September 22 I attended the special meeting of the Board of Education at which time they announced contingency plans for the first day of classes- September 27. Everyone was disappointed that the school wouldn’t be ready by the 27th, but many more were upset about the proposed school bus pickup / drop off location which was supposed to happen in front of the school. The location was later changed to St. Catherine’s Church. Since the 22nd it has been announced that classes K-5 will be starting school on the 28th at the school (http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/classes_for_k-5_students_will.html). I’ve noticed tremendous progress over last week, even today (Sunday) scores of workers were on site so it looks like it will sooner rather than later that the school will be habitable by students of all classes. So long as the construction area is separate and does not affect the students safety and concentration, perhaps both can co-exist until all of the work is done and we can close this ugly chapter of Township history.
On Thursday, September 23 the Township Committee meeting held its work session. The usual season ticket holders were present- what does it take to get more members of the public to attend? Here is a breakdown of what happened:
1. We approved the 9/9/10 meeting minutes
2. Ken Mandoli acting on behalf of the non-profit group “Remember Together” gave a presentation on a proposed 9/11/01 memorial at Landsdown Meadows. Remember Together is seeking consent of the Committee to move forward with the project and we consented. The memorial is slated to be finished by September 11, 2011. A recent article on njnews.com explains the memorial in greater detail: http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/07/sept_11_monument_planned_by_fr.html
3. We authorized payment of bills from 9/10/10 through 9/23/10. Big ticket items included the 3rd installment of the Fire District tax levy ($75,000), the 9/9/10 municipal employee payroll ($32,729), road surface treatment for Nixon Farm Road ($21,931), and the October billing for the Municipal Court of North Hunterdon ($9,024). The total amount of checks cut between 9/10/10 and 9/23/10 was $155,650.43.
4. Public Safety Director Ken Mandoli is going to look into utilizing a “Speed Sentry” radar sign which displays motorists’ speeds and records speed data. The sign is available on loan to municipalities for up to one month free of charge. Mr. Mandoli is going to find out how much it costs after the first month but it is a first come, first serve basis.
5. At 8:00 PM the Committee changed hats and became the Board of Health where we concluded a hearing of a septic system for Block 34, Lot 6 and granted a 3 month approval extension for Block 26, Lot 10.
6. Our clerical assistant update included the cancellation of monthly rug service delivery by Aramark- we were paying $300 plus a month for the rug service- instead we purchased rugs for $420 and will maintain them ourselves. I got on this issue a few months ago and I am glad we have resolved it by purchasing our own rugs. This may be small potatoes when we are talking about a $3.3 million dollar annual budget, but if I can find places to save money- no matter how small- I will do it.
7. Speaking of saving money, we approved Resolution 2010-63 which requests the Hunterdon County Freeholders to engage in an analysis of all police, fire, and rescue services. Several other municipalities in Hunterdon County have sent the Freeholders similar resolutions so let’s see if they act on it or not.
8. From the good, to the bad, to the ugly, Town Committee gets it all- we approved a deer carcass removal agreement with a private company at a cost of $58.00 per carcass. Hunterdon County takes care of carcass removal from county roadways but on local roadways, we are on our own. Carcasses will be removed within a timely 48 hours.
Upcoming events in Franklin for October include the Rural Awareness Harvest Home Tour October 9 and the Halloween Trunk or Treat is being held at the Elks Lodge on October 29 from 6:30 – 9 PM.
Fall is my favorite time of the year, but it happens so quickly- one nasty rainstorm in early November will knock out the pastiche of multi-colored leaves. So as October yields its bountiful harvest of yellows, oranges and reds, be sure to appreciate the beauty that you are witness to because before you know it, you will be shoveling snow waiting for the Burpee seed catalog!
On Tuesday, September 21 I met with our Financial Officer Ron Matthews to draft out our Local Government Best Practices Checklist that is due back to the State Department of Community Affairs on October 1. This checklist consists of 88 questions each NJ municipality is required to answer “yes, no, or not applicable”; the number of “yes” answers will depend on the percentage of final State aid payout the town gets. Here are our results: we scored 50 yes points which resulted in a 98% of final State aid payout- what does that mean in dollars? Our total State aid is about $275,000; our final payout is 5% or $13,750; and 98% of that is $13,475, so we lost $275 in State aid. I am not one to discount any dollar loss but I thought our loss was going to be a lot more than $275.
On Wednesday, September 22 I attended the special meeting of the Board of Education at which time they announced contingency plans for the first day of classes- September 27. Everyone was disappointed that the school wouldn’t be ready by the 27th, but many more were upset about the proposed school bus pickup / drop off location which was supposed to happen in front of the school. The location was later changed to St. Catherine’s Church. Since the 22nd it has been announced that classes K-5 will be starting school on the 28th at the school (http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/classes_for_k-5_students_will.html). I’ve noticed tremendous progress over last week, even today (Sunday) scores of workers were on site so it looks like it will sooner rather than later that the school will be habitable by students of all classes. So long as the construction area is separate and does not affect the students safety and concentration, perhaps both can co-exist until all of the work is done and we can close this ugly chapter of Township history.
On Thursday, September 23 the Township Committee meeting held its work session. The usual season ticket holders were present- what does it take to get more members of the public to attend? Here is a breakdown of what happened:
1. We approved the 9/9/10 meeting minutes
2. Ken Mandoli acting on behalf of the non-profit group “Remember Together” gave a presentation on a proposed 9/11/01 memorial at Landsdown Meadows. Remember Together is seeking consent of the Committee to move forward with the project and we consented. The memorial is slated to be finished by September 11, 2011. A recent article on njnews.com explains the memorial in greater detail: http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/07/sept_11_monument_planned_by_fr.html
3. We authorized payment of bills from 9/10/10 through 9/23/10. Big ticket items included the 3rd installment of the Fire District tax levy ($75,000), the 9/9/10 municipal employee payroll ($32,729), road surface treatment for Nixon Farm Road ($21,931), and the October billing for the Municipal Court of North Hunterdon ($9,024). The total amount of checks cut between 9/10/10 and 9/23/10 was $155,650.43.
4. Public Safety Director Ken Mandoli is going to look into utilizing a “Speed Sentry” radar sign which displays motorists’ speeds and records speed data. The sign is available on loan to municipalities for up to one month free of charge. Mr. Mandoli is going to find out how much it costs after the first month but it is a first come, first serve basis.
5. At 8:00 PM the Committee changed hats and became the Board of Health where we concluded a hearing of a septic system for Block 34, Lot 6 and granted a 3 month approval extension for Block 26, Lot 10.
6. Our clerical assistant update included the cancellation of monthly rug service delivery by Aramark- we were paying $300 plus a month for the rug service- instead we purchased rugs for $420 and will maintain them ourselves. I got on this issue a few months ago and I am glad we have resolved it by purchasing our own rugs. This may be small potatoes when we are talking about a $3.3 million dollar annual budget, but if I can find places to save money- no matter how small- I will do it.
7. Speaking of saving money, we approved Resolution 2010-63 which requests the Hunterdon County Freeholders to engage in an analysis of all police, fire, and rescue services. Several other municipalities in Hunterdon County have sent the Freeholders similar resolutions so let’s see if they act on it or not.
8. From the good, to the bad, to the ugly, Town Committee gets it all- we approved a deer carcass removal agreement with a private company at a cost of $58.00 per carcass. Hunterdon County takes care of carcass removal from county roadways but on local roadways, we are on our own. Carcasses will be removed within a timely 48 hours.
Upcoming events in Franklin for October include the Rural Awareness Harvest Home Tour October 9 and the Halloween Trunk or Treat is being held at the Elks Lodge on October 29 from 6:30 – 9 PM.
Fall is my favorite time of the year, but it happens so quickly- one nasty rainstorm in early November will knock out the pastiche of multi-colored leaves. So as October yields its bountiful harvest of yellows, oranges and reds, be sure to appreciate the beauty that you are witness to because before you know it, you will be shoveling snow waiting for the Burpee seed catalog!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
September 5 – September 18, 2010
September morn
We danced until the night became a brand new day
Two lovers playing scenes from some romantic play
September morning still can make me feel that way
Thanks Neil Diamond for the inspiring and heartfelt lyrics but lately I just don’t feel like dancing; nor do I want to hear Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out Forever.” How about “Back to School Again” by the Four Tops for a change? Now we’re talking.
It’s been a busy couple of weeks as your committeeman. Summer is a distant memory and it’s back to work as I continue to serve the residents of Franklin. Our ongoing school construction project continues to be the most important issue in town; I’ll cover that in my September 13 entry.
Wednesday September 8: Land Use Board
Our meeting was a work session where members gave updates on the various ordinances being worked on for eventual Committee consideration; these ordinances include: tree preservation, lighting, steep slope, riparian buffer, home occupation, solar energy, and wind energy. If you are interested in assisting with the preparation and review of any of these ordinances or have questions please contact me and I can either assist you myself or put you in touch with the right people.
Thursday September 9: Township Committee
Given that two committee members were absent, the meeting was a little shorter than usual:
-We approved the August 12 meeting minutes.
-Franklin Resident Frank Bell gave a presentation and informed us that state grant and federal stimulus money is available to municipalities for energy audits and energy efficient upgrades. More information about the grant can be found at: http://www.njcleanenergy.com/commercial-industrial/home/home I am meeting with Mr. Bell next week to review the grant application. I see this as a win-win situation for the environment and the taxpayers; if you have been to the municipal building the words “energy efficient” aren’t the first that come to mind so I look forward to taking advantage of energy efficient technology and saving the taxpayers some money. East Amwell recently completed a similar project- their experiences can be viewed here: http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/09/east_amwell_using_grants_for_e.html
-We paid the bills by approving the check control register covering 8/12/2010 – 9/9/2010. We disbursed $1,503,962; big ticket items included: $801,185 (Franklin Board of Education), $529,748 (North Hunterdon / Voorhees School District), $50,595 (8/27 municipal payroll), $34,815 (8/13 municipal payroll), and $26,880 (August health insurance premium for municipal employees). Our check control register is always public information and is available at the clerk’s office and at the committee meetings; I invite all to review these bills and to ask questions and provide suggestions on how we can reduce our spending.
-We approved Resolution 2010-62 designating an $800,000 bond anticipation note a “qualified tax-exempt obligation”.
-We approved Resolution 2010-61 authorizing the township engineer to submit a grant application to the NJ Department of Transportation for the West Sidney Road Phase 2 Improvement Project. Phase 2 work consists of 1 mile of work from the southwest of Rote 617 (Cherryville Road) to Cherryville Road. The scope of work consists of storm sewer improvements, pavement repairs, minor road widening, roadway leveling, resurfacing, and driveway repairs. The total estimated cost of the project is $303,600.
-We received August reports from the Police Department and Department of Public Works. A special note was made in the police report that the Class II Special Officers volunteered 85 hours of their time in August. In August 189 motor vehicle summonses and 158 motor vehicle warnings were issued compared to July when 149 summonses were issued and only 58 warnings were issued. DPW was busy in August with vehicle and equipment repair / maintenance, and road work, and assisting with moving boxes of files at the municipal building.
-We met as the Board of Health and approved a septic system application at Block 34, Lot 6.
-Mayor Jacukowicz and I gave the Committee an update on the Land Use Board’s September 8 meeting. We had 10 zoning applications in the month of August which included 3 solar array projects, an in-ground pool, and a storage shed. We carried amending the construction fees to the next meeting.
-Mark your calendars: the Halloween Trunk or Treat is being held at the Elks Lodge on October 29 from 6:30 – 9 PM.
Saturday September 11: Quakertown Fire Company BBQ Chicken Event
Being a committeeman wouldn’t be complete without attending a cookout / BBQ and the Quakertown Fire Company BBQ Chicken event hit the spot. Besides indulging in delicious chicken and amazing baked beans, I was able to talk to members of the fire company and township residents. These events are fewer far between in our community and that it is a shame- getting to know each other is what makes small towns special; once you lose the connection and communication with your neighbor you might as well live in a lackluster suburb or unforgiving city. To see pictures from the BBQ check out: http://www.quakertownfire.com/fullstory.php?116567
The QFC is holding an Oktoberfest on October 2, for more information check out http://www.quakertownfire.com/fullstory.php?116570
Monday September 13: Board of Education Meeting
Over 60 people attended this meeting; the BOE provided the public with an update on the construction project. This chart describing the progress made was distributed to the public: http://www.ftschool.org/FTS_HOME/FTS_Home_New_files/FTS%20School%20Construction%20Status%20Report%20v4.pdf Superintendent Harttraft told us the list of items that need to be addressed before a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) can be issued. Board members discussed briefly the types of contingency plans they are considering if the school cannot be occupied on September 27. Plenty of residents had questions and for the most part I felt their questions were answered. The next BOE special meeting is scheduled for September 22, 7:30 PM at the firehouse- that meeting will be important because the BOE will announce whether the building is ready or not and if not, what the contingency plans will be in place.
My commentary: Overall I thought the meeting went well; tempers were in check, and I didn’t get the strong feeling that there was a “blame game” going on. Sure there were complaints about bureaucracy, permitting, lackluster field work, and overbearing inspections but anyone who has ever been involved in a construction project knows first hand that “whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.” As a licensed professional planner I work for the city of Plainfield and part of my job includes working with our construction official with certificate of occupancy inspections. I have inspected many schools and I can attest that the process is tedious because so much is at stake. It is possible for a school to operate and still have the appearance of a construction zone. I visited the school on Saturday the 18th and workers were digging the pits for the water tanks; I happened to meet BOE President Chris Piparo on site and we had an encouraging conversation. I also met with our construction official, mayor, and the school’s general contractor on the 14th to get an update on the permitting process and what is required for a TCO. Going what I have heard and seen, and given my experiences with inspecting schools, I am encouraged and feel that the school could be ready for a TCO by the 27th- it is not impossible, but additional work needs to be done, and it needs to be done quickly and correctly. I am hoping for the best and that our children are able to attend classes in Franklin Township on September 27th.
The media continues to cover our school construction project:
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/franklin_kids_will_be_in_schoo.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/09/franklin_township_school_on_tr.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/09/school_officials_promise_frank.html
We danced until the night became a brand new day
Two lovers playing scenes from some romantic play
September morning still can make me feel that way
Thanks Neil Diamond for the inspiring and heartfelt lyrics but lately I just don’t feel like dancing; nor do I want to hear Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out Forever.” How about “Back to School Again” by the Four Tops for a change? Now we’re talking.
It’s been a busy couple of weeks as your committeeman. Summer is a distant memory and it’s back to work as I continue to serve the residents of Franklin. Our ongoing school construction project continues to be the most important issue in town; I’ll cover that in my September 13 entry.
Wednesday September 8: Land Use Board
Our meeting was a work session where members gave updates on the various ordinances being worked on for eventual Committee consideration; these ordinances include: tree preservation, lighting, steep slope, riparian buffer, home occupation, solar energy, and wind energy. If you are interested in assisting with the preparation and review of any of these ordinances or have questions please contact me and I can either assist you myself or put you in touch with the right people.
Thursday September 9: Township Committee
Given that two committee members were absent, the meeting was a little shorter than usual:
-We approved the August 12 meeting minutes.
-Franklin Resident Frank Bell gave a presentation and informed us that state grant and federal stimulus money is available to municipalities for energy audits and energy efficient upgrades. More information about the grant can be found at: http://www.njcleanenergy.com/commercial-industrial/home/home I am meeting with Mr. Bell next week to review the grant application. I see this as a win-win situation for the environment and the taxpayers; if you have been to the municipal building the words “energy efficient” aren’t the first that come to mind so I look forward to taking advantage of energy efficient technology and saving the taxpayers some money. East Amwell recently completed a similar project- their experiences can be viewed here: http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/09/east_amwell_using_grants_for_e.html
-We paid the bills by approving the check control register covering 8/12/2010 – 9/9/2010. We disbursed $1,503,962; big ticket items included: $801,185 (Franklin Board of Education), $529,748 (North Hunterdon / Voorhees School District), $50,595 (8/27 municipal payroll), $34,815 (8/13 municipal payroll), and $26,880 (August health insurance premium for municipal employees). Our check control register is always public information and is available at the clerk’s office and at the committee meetings; I invite all to review these bills and to ask questions and provide suggestions on how we can reduce our spending.
-We approved Resolution 2010-62 designating an $800,000 bond anticipation note a “qualified tax-exempt obligation”.
-We approved Resolution 2010-61 authorizing the township engineer to submit a grant application to the NJ Department of Transportation for the West Sidney Road Phase 2 Improvement Project. Phase 2 work consists of 1 mile of work from the southwest of Rote 617 (Cherryville Road) to Cherryville Road. The scope of work consists of storm sewer improvements, pavement repairs, minor road widening, roadway leveling, resurfacing, and driveway repairs. The total estimated cost of the project is $303,600.
-We received August reports from the Police Department and Department of Public Works. A special note was made in the police report that the Class II Special Officers volunteered 85 hours of their time in August. In August 189 motor vehicle summonses and 158 motor vehicle warnings were issued compared to July when 149 summonses were issued and only 58 warnings were issued. DPW was busy in August with vehicle and equipment repair / maintenance, and road work, and assisting with moving boxes of files at the municipal building.
-We met as the Board of Health and approved a septic system application at Block 34, Lot 6.
-Mayor Jacukowicz and I gave the Committee an update on the Land Use Board’s September 8 meeting. We had 10 zoning applications in the month of August which included 3 solar array projects, an in-ground pool, and a storage shed. We carried amending the construction fees to the next meeting.
-Mark your calendars: the Halloween Trunk or Treat is being held at the Elks Lodge on October 29 from 6:30 – 9 PM.
Saturday September 11: Quakertown Fire Company BBQ Chicken Event
Being a committeeman wouldn’t be complete without attending a cookout / BBQ and the Quakertown Fire Company BBQ Chicken event hit the spot. Besides indulging in delicious chicken and amazing baked beans, I was able to talk to members of the fire company and township residents. These events are fewer far between in our community and that it is a shame- getting to know each other is what makes small towns special; once you lose the connection and communication with your neighbor you might as well live in a lackluster suburb or unforgiving city. To see pictures from the BBQ check out: http://www.quakertownfire.com/fullstory.php?116567
The QFC is holding an Oktoberfest on October 2, for more information check out http://www.quakertownfire.com/fullstory.php?116570
Monday September 13: Board of Education Meeting
Over 60 people attended this meeting; the BOE provided the public with an update on the construction project. This chart describing the progress made was distributed to the public: http://www.ftschool.org/FTS_HOME/FTS_Home_New_files/FTS%20School%20Construction%20Status%20Report%20v4.pdf Superintendent Harttraft told us the list of items that need to be addressed before a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) can be issued. Board members discussed briefly the types of contingency plans they are considering if the school cannot be occupied on September 27. Plenty of residents had questions and for the most part I felt their questions were answered. The next BOE special meeting is scheduled for September 22, 7:30 PM at the firehouse- that meeting will be important because the BOE will announce whether the building is ready or not and if not, what the contingency plans will be in place.
My commentary: Overall I thought the meeting went well; tempers were in check, and I didn’t get the strong feeling that there was a “blame game” going on. Sure there were complaints about bureaucracy, permitting, lackluster field work, and overbearing inspections but anyone who has ever been involved in a construction project knows first hand that “whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.” As a licensed professional planner I work for the city of Plainfield and part of my job includes working with our construction official with certificate of occupancy inspections. I have inspected many schools and I can attest that the process is tedious because so much is at stake. It is possible for a school to operate and still have the appearance of a construction zone. I visited the school on Saturday the 18th and workers were digging the pits for the water tanks; I happened to meet BOE President Chris Piparo on site and we had an encouraging conversation. I also met with our construction official, mayor, and the school’s general contractor on the 14th to get an update on the permitting process and what is required for a TCO. Going what I have heard and seen, and given my experiences with inspecting schools, I am encouraged and feel that the school could be ready for a TCO by the 27th- it is not impossible, but additional work needs to be done, and it needs to be done quickly and correctly. I am hoping for the best and that our children are able to attend classes in Franklin Township on September 27th.
The media continues to cover our school construction project:
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/franklin_kids_will_be_in_schoo.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/09/franklin_township_school_on_tr.html
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/09/school_officials_promise_frank.html
Monday, September 6, 2010
August 29 - September 4, 2010
I attended a Rural Awareness meeting on Thursday September 2. Those present voted on a new Rural Awareness logo, and discussed in detail the upcoming October 9 Fall Harvest Home Tour. For more information on the home tour check out
http://www.ruralawareness.org/2010_home_tour/2010_tour_release.pdf
==========
Two news articles got my attention this week that I would like to share:
1. "Towns Resist Governor's List of Best Practices"
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/towns_resist_governors_list_of.html
Last week all 566 NJ municipalities received from the Department of Community Affairs a "best practices" checklist consisting of 88 questions aimed at learning how local governments operate. All towns are being asked to complete the questionnaire and return it by October 1; if not the State will withhold their final state aid payment for 2010. A copy of the best practices checklist can be found here:
http://www.state.nj.us/dca/lgs/fiscal/bud_forms/best_practices_2010.pdf
In a worst case scenario we can lose 5% of our state aid. In calendar year 2010 we are receiving $276,515 in state aid:
http://www.nj.gov/dca/lgs/muniaid/10_aid/10sosa/1010_ssa_2010.pdf
I have no objections to filing out this questionnaire; even though it's our local tax dollars going to the state, and the state then gives us back some of our money and calls it state aid. One could argue the merits of state aid but right now I am going to make sure that the questionnaire is completed and hopefully we will get all 100% of our state aid, and if not, I will find ways to ensure that we do not take such losses in the future.
===
Article #2: "Surplus Spending Leads to Westfield Bond Rating Drop"
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/surplus_spending_leads_to_west.html
Moodys Investor Services downgraded Westfield's bond rating to Aa2 because the town drew down on their surplus funds for 5 consecutive years to compensate for insufficient revenue. I don't know Franklin's bond rating off the top of my head, but I am going to ask our Finance Officer this week. I do know that our entire budget is $3,319,767 and our anticipated surplus for this year is $1,029,000. According to our auditor this surplus amount is acceptable and as long as I am in office I will not approve of unreasonable surplus spending. If Westfield can mess up it can happen to other towns too but I will be vigilant to ensure that it doesn't happen here.
==
The Land Use Board meets this Wednesday and the Town Committee meets on Thursday night- come on out to the municipal building and see how your local officials govern.
http://www.ruralawareness.org/2010_home_tour/2010_tour_release.pdf
==========
Two news articles got my attention this week that I would like to share:
1. "Towns Resist Governor's List of Best Practices"
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/towns_resist_governors_list_of.html
Last week all 566 NJ municipalities received from the Department of Community Affairs a "best practices" checklist consisting of 88 questions aimed at learning how local governments operate. All towns are being asked to complete the questionnaire and return it by October 1; if not the State will withhold their final state aid payment for 2010. A copy of the best practices checklist can be found here:
http://www.state.nj.us/dca/lgs/fiscal/bud_forms/best_practices_2010.pdf
In a worst case scenario we can lose 5% of our state aid. In calendar year 2010 we are receiving $276,515 in state aid:
http://www.nj.gov/dca/lgs/muniaid/10_aid/10sosa/1010_ssa_2010.pdf
I have no objections to filing out this questionnaire; even though it's our local tax dollars going to the state, and the state then gives us back some of our money and calls it state aid. One could argue the merits of state aid but right now I am going to make sure that the questionnaire is completed and hopefully we will get all 100% of our state aid, and if not, I will find ways to ensure that we do not take such losses in the future.
===
Article #2: "Surplus Spending Leads to Westfield Bond Rating Drop"
http://www.nj.com/news/local/index.ssf/2010/09/surplus_spending_leads_to_west.html
Moodys Investor Services downgraded Westfield's bond rating to Aa2 because the town drew down on their surplus funds for 5 consecutive years to compensate for insufficient revenue. I don't know Franklin's bond rating off the top of my head, but I am going to ask our Finance Officer this week. I do know that our entire budget is $3,319,767 and our anticipated surplus for this year is $1,029,000. According to our auditor this surplus amount is acceptable and as long as I am in office I will not approve of unreasonable surplus spending. If Westfield can mess up it can happen to other towns too but I will be vigilant to ensure that it doesn't happen here.
==
The Land Use Board meets this Wednesday and the Town Committee meets on Thursday night- come on out to the municipal building and see how your local officials govern.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
August 22 - August 28, 2010
The Board of Education meeting of August 23 and 26th was the talk of the town this week and for good reason. Not only does school costs represent the majority of our tax bill, but the ongoing construction is causing just concern for all residents with children who attend the school.
For those not familiar with what has been going on, two quick links from nj.com:
Franklin Township Fire Marshal orders school evacuated, ending school board meeting UPDATED
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/08/franklin_township_fire_marshal.html
and:
Construction may delay Franklin Township School opening to Sept. 27
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/08/construction_may_delay_frankli.html
Let the media and the gallery of comments (whom I fondly call the peanut gallery) speak for themselves. Lots of opinions out there- obviously this has become quite a story and it has hit a nerve for many residents.
I attended Thursday's meeting and as a member of the public I was taken back by the fact that the Board dismissed construction Manager Dave Tillou before the public was permitted to ask questions. I was also surprised and disappointed that the Board held their vote to approve change orders without first hearing public comment.
Board President Chris Piparo stated that the Board has a policy that the public cannot question Mr. Tillou at the Board meetings- he only receives questions and answers to the Board. Dr. Harttraft followed up by saying that Mr. Tillou's telephone number is on the school's website and anyone is free to call him anytime with questions. Well, I checked the school's website here:
http://www.ftschool.org/FTS_HOME/Construction_New.html
...and unfortunatly Mr. Tillou's contact information is no where to be seen. It is also unfortunate that "construction updates" was last updated on June 11: -6/9/10 Walls are going up and the roof is coming off. It looks like things a moving forward nicely.
Communication is key; keeping the Construction Page of the school's website up to date and accurate would help keep residents updated and possibly help quell misinformation and rumors that plague the project's progress. Perhaps a chart showing which tasks are complete, which are ongoing, and which ones are not yet complete would help illustrate the project in easy to read fashion? It is my opinion that in the name of public accountability Mr. Tillou should be required to attend the entire board meetings and answer questions- may they be from the public or from the Board members. The simple gesture of "accessibility" to the decision makers can only help; perhaps as we move forward the Board will re-examine their stance on this topic.
In my "real job" as a city planner for Plainfield I have managed several projects involving the restoration of our historic City Hall. One of my projects received an award from the NJ State Historic Preservation Office (see: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/hpo/4sustain/awds2002.htm scroll down to the 3rd project). Having experience in very public projects I do have sympathy for Mr. Tillou and the Board; but I also value the importance of accountability to the public and providing up to date information at any given notice.
Setbacks aside, let's work together, keep the information current and accurate, and support the completion of the school.
For those not familiar with what has been going on, two quick links from nj.com:
Franklin Township Fire Marshal orders school evacuated, ending school board meeting UPDATED
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/08/franklin_township_fire_marshal.html
and:
Construction may delay Franklin Township School opening to Sept. 27
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/08/construction_may_delay_frankli.html
Let the media and the gallery of comments (whom I fondly call the peanut gallery) speak for themselves. Lots of opinions out there- obviously this has become quite a story and it has hit a nerve for many residents.
I attended Thursday's meeting and as a member of the public I was taken back by the fact that the Board dismissed construction Manager Dave Tillou before the public was permitted to ask questions. I was also surprised and disappointed that the Board held their vote to approve change orders without first hearing public comment.
Board President Chris Piparo stated that the Board has a policy that the public cannot question Mr. Tillou at the Board meetings- he only receives questions and answers to the Board. Dr. Harttraft followed up by saying that Mr. Tillou's telephone number is on the school's website and anyone is free to call him anytime with questions. Well, I checked the school's website here:
http://www.ftschool.org/FTS_HOME/Construction_New.html
...and unfortunatly Mr. Tillou's contact information is no where to be seen. It is also unfortunate that "construction updates" was last updated on June 11: -6/9/10 Walls are going up and the roof is coming off. It looks like things a moving forward nicely.
Communication is key; keeping the Construction Page of the school's website up to date and accurate would help keep residents updated and possibly help quell misinformation and rumors that plague the project's progress. Perhaps a chart showing which tasks are complete, which are ongoing, and which ones are not yet complete would help illustrate the project in easy to read fashion? It is my opinion that in the name of public accountability Mr. Tillou should be required to attend the entire board meetings and answer questions- may they be from the public or from the Board members. The simple gesture of "accessibility" to the decision makers can only help; perhaps as we move forward the Board will re-examine their stance on this topic.
In my "real job" as a city planner for Plainfield I have managed several projects involving the restoration of our historic City Hall. One of my projects received an award from the NJ State Historic Preservation Office (see: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/hpo/4sustain/awds2002.htm scroll down to the 3rd project). Having experience in very public projects I do have sympathy for Mr. Tillou and the Board; but I also value the importance of accountability to the public and providing up to date information at any given notice.
Setbacks aside, let's work together, keep the information current and accurate, and support the completion of the school.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
July 25 - August 21, 2010
The dog days of summer are upon us; with folks taking vacations and meetings being canceled, it has been a quiet month. I have used this time to organize my files, reach out to residents, and work on a few pet projects.
Since July 25 the following meetings were canceled: Environmental Commission (7/26), Land Use Board (7/28), Recreation Commission (8/3), Rural Awareness (8/5), Land Use Board (8/11), and Board of Education “REPAIR” (8/17). The 8/26 Township Committee meeting is canceled as well. The Committee did meet on August 12 and this is what happened:
Thursday, August 12: Township Committee.
1. The 7/22/10 work session and executive session meeting minutes were approved.
2. We approved Ordinance 2010-07 which established fees to cover the Township’s costs in responding to OPRA requests. OPRA stands for Open Public Records Act; you can find more information about OPRA at: http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/New_Jersey_Open_Public_Records_Act
3. We authorized payment of the bills: between 7/29/10 and 8/12/10 we paid $594,522.25 in bills. As always, copies of the check control register are available at the clerk’s office, and are always at the Committee meetings.
4. Our Tax Collector reported we received $149,231.12 in taxes for July 2010.
5. Our Department of Public Works Supervisor provided us with his July monthly report. Highlights from his report include shoulder/drainage basin repairs at Nixon Farm and Rake Factory roads, and township-wide roadside mowing.
6. As part of my Administration Subcommittee report, I reported that our Finance Director informed me that the cost of municipal health employee benefits has fluctuated a lot in 2010- from $16,800 in January, $18,000 from February through May, $28,600 in June, then down to $19,600 in July and $8,500 in August. It is difficult to create and maintain a budget with such monetary fluctuation; our clerk will contact the State to find out why our premiums are not steady. Given this and the fact that we have been told that premiums are going up 12% in 2011 makes this issue even more important.
7. Another administrative matter which I would like to know how the public feels about- on Tuesday nights between 7 and 9 pm you can visit the municipal building and meet with many of our municipal employees like our tax assessor, construction official, zoning officer, etc. I show up on Tuesday nights because it gives me a chance to catch up with our employees as well. I was asked by several employees if the Tuesday night hours could be changed from 7-9pm to 6-8 pm. I was told that several residents asked for this since they can “swing by” directly from work rather than go home, wait until 7 then head off to the municipal building. I felt this request was reasonable- the difference of 1 hour to me is negligible, however the rest of the Committee felt otherwise. I was told this request is made every year and that the present 7-9 pm hours should stay as they are. So much for flexibility; I would like to hear from residents who have an opinion on this matter one way or the other.
8. We approved Resolution 2010-60 granting the Quakertown Recreation Club to hunt on municipal properties. A quick Google search turned up this quick history of the Rec Club: http://www.ftschool.org/fourth/historic.franklintwp/quak_rec_club.html
9. Planning, Zoning and Construction Subcommittee. As part of the Building Department’s restructured budget for 2010 I looked into the status of the fees that the township charges for construction projects. With the help of our Construction Official, we looked at our fee schedule and compared what we charge to six municipalities- Alexandria, Clinton Town, Delaware, Kingwood, Raritan, and Readington. I took the low, high, and averages and compared those figures to our fee schedule. To see a copy of the spreadsheet I put together check out this link: http://www.scribd.com/doc/36327864/Construction-Fee-Analysis-August-12-2010
The Committee members were apprehensive about increasing any fees- erroneously believing a building fee is a tax. There are differences between a tax and a fee, the most obvious being that a tax is paid uniformly by all citizens and building fees are paid for by those who are engaged in construction activity. If you have a look at the spreadsheet you can see that we are below the average in many categories and as a committeeman I feel it is my responsibility to ensure that our fees are up to date and reasonable. The idea is to increase revenues where we can without being too heavy handed. Keeping our municipal tax rate level is accomplished by a combination of reducing spending and increasing revenue. The State requires us to review our fee schedule every 3 years and the last time we reviewed our fees was in 2008. The matter was carried to the September 9 meeting; one Committeeman wants to know how much revenue would have been raised if the proposed increases were implemented earlier. Tell me how you feel!
10. The Township Committee also acts as the Board of Health and in this capacity we approved the May 13, 2010 meeting minutes and approved a deadline extension to TPA, LLC (Block 26, Lot 10) to our next Board of Health meeting of September 9. The Applicant originally wanted a 6 month extension but the Applicant was not even present to support his request, so perhaps in September we will be compelled to offer a longer deadline extension.
11. Our last business matter concerned the Quakertown Fire Company Emergency Medical Service. The QFC requested an $18,000 contribution from the township for “emergency medical services including medical transport, supplies, and training”. After deliberation in executive session the Committee agreed to the contribution with the condition that we are made aware of exactly how the money is being spent.
Our next Committee meeting is Thursday, September 9 at 7:30 PM; I would like to see you there. As always, I am available to discuss any township concerns with you; feel free to contact me at scottsbauman@gmail.com or at 908-797-4140.
Since July 25 the following meetings were canceled: Environmental Commission (7/26), Land Use Board (7/28), Recreation Commission (8/3), Rural Awareness (8/5), Land Use Board (8/11), and Board of Education “REPAIR” (8/17). The 8/26 Township Committee meeting is canceled as well. The Committee did meet on August 12 and this is what happened:
Thursday, August 12: Township Committee.
1. The 7/22/10 work session and executive session meeting minutes were approved.
2. We approved Ordinance 2010-07 which established fees to cover the Township’s costs in responding to OPRA requests. OPRA stands for Open Public Records Act; you can find more information about OPRA at: http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/New_Jersey_Open_Public_Records_Act
3. We authorized payment of the bills: between 7/29/10 and 8/12/10 we paid $594,522.25 in bills. As always, copies of the check control register are available at the clerk’s office, and are always at the Committee meetings.
4. Our Tax Collector reported we received $149,231.12 in taxes for July 2010.
5. Our Department of Public Works Supervisor provided us with his July monthly report. Highlights from his report include shoulder/drainage basin repairs at Nixon Farm and Rake Factory roads, and township-wide roadside mowing.
6. As part of my Administration Subcommittee report, I reported that our Finance Director informed me that the cost of municipal health employee benefits has fluctuated a lot in 2010- from $16,800 in January, $18,000 from February through May, $28,600 in June, then down to $19,600 in July and $8,500 in August. It is difficult to create and maintain a budget with such monetary fluctuation; our clerk will contact the State to find out why our premiums are not steady. Given this and the fact that we have been told that premiums are going up 12% in 2011 makes this issue even more important.
7. Another administrative matter which I would like to know how the public feels about- on Tuesday nights between 7 and 9 pm you can visit the municipal building and meet with many of our municipal employees like our tax assessor, construction official, zoning officer, etc. I show up on Tuesday nights because it gives me a chance to catch up with our employees as well. I was asked by several employees if the Tuesday night hours could be changed from 7-9pm to 6-8 pm. I was told that several residents asked for this since they can “swing by” directly from work rather than go home, wait until 7 then head off to the municipal building. I felt this request was reasonable- the difference of 1 hour to me is negligible, however the rest of the Committee felt otherwise. I was told this request is made every year and that the present 7-9 pm hours should stay as they are. So much for flexibility; I would like to hear from residents who have an opinion on this matter one way or the other.
8. We approved Resolution 2010-60 granting the Quakertown Recreation Club to hunt on municipal properties. A quick Google search turned up this quick history of the Rec Club: http://www.ftschool.org/fourth/historic.franklintwp/quak_rec_club.html
9. Planning, Zoning and Construction Subcommittee. As part of the Building Department’s restructured budget for 2010 I looked into the status of the fees that the township charges for construction projects. With the help of our Construction Official, we looked at our fee schedule and compared what we charge to six municipalities- Alexandria, Clinton Town, Delaware, Kingwood, Raritan, and Readington. I took the low, high, and averages and compared those figures to our fee schedule. To see a copy of the spreadsheet I put together check out this link: http://www.scribd.com/doc/36327864/Construction-Fee-Analysis-August-12-2010
The Committee members were apprehensive about increasing any fees- erroneously believing a building fee is a tax. There are differences between a tax and a fee, the most obvious being that a tax is paid uniformly by all citizens and building fees are paid for by those who are engaged in construction activity. If you have a look at the spreadsheet you can see that we are below the average in many categories and as a committeeman I feel it is my responsibility to ensure that our fees are up to date and reasonable. The idea is to increase revenues where we can without being too heavy handed. Keeping our municipal tax rate level is accomplished by a combination of reducing spending and increasing revenue. The State requires us to review our fee schedule every 3 years and the last time we reviewed our fees was in 2008. The matter was carried to the September 9 meeting; one Committeeman wants to know how much revenue would have been raised if the proposed increases were implemented earlier. Tell me how you feel!
10. The Township Committee also acts as the Board of Health and in this capacity we approved the May 13, 2010 meeting minutes and approved a deadline extension to TPA, LLC (Block 26, Lot 10) to our next Board of Health meeting of September 9. The Applicant originally wanted a 6 month extension but the Applicant was not even present to support his request, so perhaps in September we will be compelled to offer a longer deadline extension.
11. Our last business matter concerned the Quakertown Fire Company Emergency Medical Service. The QFC requested an $18,000 contribution from the township for “emergency medical services including medical transport, supplies, and training”. After deliberation in executive session the Committee agreed to the contribution with the condition that we are made aware of exactly how the money is being spent.
Our next Committee meeting is Thursday, September 9 at 7:30 PM; I would like to see you there. As always, I am available to discuss any township concerns with you; feel free to contact me at scottsbauman@gmail.com or at 908-797-4140.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
July 11 – July 24, 2010
Lucky you, a two for one special. There is always something going on in the township- get involved!
Monday, July 12: Environmental Commission
I attended the monthly Environmental Commission meeting; they didn’t have a quorum so no official actions were taken, but those present didn’t waste a good night out so they discussed the flyer they are working on to educate people about their septic systems. This flyer is piggy-backing the annual tax bill being sent out to all property owners in August.
The Commission members also discussed the idea of having a “Night of Environmental Issues for Homeowners” which would be an open to the community workshop covering topics like recycling, well testing, septic maintenance, invasive species, and lot management.
A grant opportunity from ANJEC (Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions http://www.anjec.org) will present itself in early 2011 and it is never too early to start thinking of environmental projects which we could receive a 50% cash match. In 2008, ANJEC contributed 50% of the costs for the preparation of our Natural Resources Inventory, which can be seen here: http://www.franklin-twp.org/NRI-Inventory.html. Any ideas from the armchair environmentalists out there? Familiarize yourself with the ANJEC website and contact the Environmental Commission. http://www.franklin-twp.org/EC-main.html
Tuesday, July 13: Emergency Meeting of the Township Committee
This meeting was called for “discussing possible funding to do permanent repairs at Hamden Road to alleviate erosion”. The meeting was held at 4:45PM and I was not able to attend but I did read the meeting minutes. FEMA is willing to pay 75% of $160,000 worth of repairs along the stream bank that is eroding Hamden Road. FEMA will cover 75% of the costs and 25% will be paid jointly between the township, the county, and the NJ Water Authority. The Committee voted to commit funds to the project. Our support is conditioned on the others to commit their share of funding, and for the County to be the lead agency. Do the math; our costs are minimal and we have leveraged our money in outstanding fashion.
Tuesday, July 13: Board of Education sponsored REPAIR Meeting
Here is the report I submitted to the Township Committee:
Two of the three REPAIR meetings are now in the rear view mirror- so what’s my take? I am encouraged by the discussions and think it is a good thing that we all talk about what the issues are- whatever they may be- at least we are talking about them to each other face to face in an atmosphere that is not “charged” the way public hearings can be. Between the ongoing school building construction, adjusting to the new school budget, and preparing for next year’s budget- these are three great reasons why we should continue to meet, perhaps on a quarterly basis.
Wednesday, July 14: Land Use Board
This was out last meeting for the summer- no new business for the second meeting of the month, and the Board traditionally takes the month of August off. We had two new business items on the agenda.
Representatives of the School were present to give the Board an update on the school construction and to respond to the Board’s 5/12/10 review letter of the school construction project. Overall the discussion went well, the construction is running on time, and it was pleasant to see that the School representatives were receptive to the Board’s comments, one even helped save the school money!
The second new business item was a discussion with Shop Rite about a proposed expansion of about 6,400 square feet. They want to expand where the pet store, former postal annex, and dry cleaner are located. The additional space will be used for dairy and frozen food as well as the Shop Rite from Home Internet Department. The expansion will have no impact on parking or traffic; no site work is proposed and there is no requirement for increased parking.
Friday, July 16: Out and About
I chose to spend half of my vacation day doing township business. I met with our engineer Rick Roseberry of Maser Consulting and a property owner on a site, I met with our Public Safety Director Ken Mandoli and got a tour of the police department, I visited the summer recreation program that was in full swing when I stopped by, and I met with our employees at the Public Works Department on Locust Grove Road.
To me, how I felt on Friday is what being on the Township Committee is all about. Besides the public meetings every other Thursday there are so many other things “in play”. The tax payers who expect a certain level of service, our children who take part in community recreation programs, and the employees of the town who dedicate themselves to their job and do their very best- all of these things made a tremendous impact on me today. It was one of those days I will always remember as a committeeman.
Thursday, July 22: Town Committee Meeting
Pretty busy meeting- there were only 3 of us present so we had to extra duty in making motions and giving reports. We occupied ourselves with the following business:
-We adopted the meeting minutes from July 8 and July 13.
-We conducted the 1st public hearing for Ordinance 2010-07 “Establishing Fees, Special Service Charges Under the NJ Open Public Records Act”. The second hearing is scheduled for August 12.
-We authorized payment of the bills including big ticket items like $529,748 for the North Hunterdon / Voorhees School District, and $9,024 for the Municipal Court of North Hunterdon.
-We approved the 2009 audit prepared by William Colantano, Jr., CPA.
-We joined the Municipal Alliance for year 2011. The Municipal Alliance provides substance abuse prevention programming to the schools and community. There is no out of pocket cost to be a member of the Alliance.
-We are preparing a Local Aid grant application to the NJ Dept. of Transportation for funding of the West Sidney Road repairs, Phase II. Phase I was partially funded with state grant money so we are intending to make the August 13 deadline so we can begin the second phase of repair work.
-We are ready to release the performance bond for site work (removal of a barn structure) related to Block 39, Lot 9; we should have the resolution ready for the next meeting.
-I updated the Committee on the July 12 Environmental Commission meeting and July 14 Land Use Board meeting.
-Representatives from the Hunterdon Land Trust (http://www.hlta.org) were present as well as Open Space Committee representative John Demarrais to discuss possible land acquisitions.
Saturday, July 24: Public Safety / D.A.R.E Day
My wife and two sons joined the Franklin Police Department for their 6th Annual Public Safety / D.A.R.E Day at the Clinton Elks Lodge. While it was a little on the hot and humid side, plenty of folks came out to support our police department and D.A.R.E program. Many other law enforcement agencies were in attendance, including a state police helicopter.
Monday, July 12: Environmental Commission
I attended the monthly Environmental Commission meeting; they didn’t have a quorum so no official actions were taken, but those present didn’t waste a good night out so they discussed the flyer they are working on to educate people about their septic systems. This flyer is piggy-backing the annual tax bill being sent out to all property owners in August.
The Commission members also discussed the idea of having a “Night of Environmental Issues for Homeowners” which would be an open to the community workshop covering topics like recycling, well testing, septic maintenance, invasive species, and lot management.
A grant opportunity from ANJEC (Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions http://www.anjec.org) will present itself in early 2011 and it is never too early to start thinking of environmental projects which we could receive a 50% cash match. In 2008, ANJEC contributed 50% of the costs for the preparation of our Natural Resources Inventory, which can be seen here: http://www.franklin-twp.org/NRI-Inventory.html. Any ideas from the armchair environmentalists out there? Familiarize yourself with the ANJEC website and contact the Environmental Commission. http://www.franklin-twp.org/EC-main.html
Tuesday, July 13: Emergency Meeting of the Township Committee
This meeting was called for “discussing possible funding to do permanent repairs at Hamden Road to alleviate erosion”. The meeting was held at 4:45PM and I was not able to attend but I did read the meeting minutes. FEMA is willing to pay 75% of $160,000 worth of repairs along the stream bank that is eroding Hamden Road. FEMA will cover 75% of the costs and 25% will be paid jointly between the township, the county, and the NJ Water Authority. The Committee voted to commit funds to the project. Our support is conditioned on the others to commit their share of funding, and for the County to be the lead agency. Do the math; our costs are minimal and we have leveraged our money in outstanding fashion.
Tuesday, July 13: Board of Education sponsored REPAIR Meeting
Here is the report I submitted to the Township Committee:
Please accept this report on the REPAIR committee meeting which took place 7:00 PM on July 13. Fifteen persons were present including two members of the Recreation Commission (Mark Mroz and Kevin Suydam).
Dr. Harttraft gave an update on the construction work- they are on schedule to open on September 8. There is still some demolition work that needs to be done.
The topic of the meeting was the sports program. BOE President Chris Piparo said the sports program was included in the first wave of BOE cuts; sports were a victim. He is looking for dialogue and suggestions. All present agreed that sports assists with positive school spirit, community, and builds social friendships. There are approximately 75 athletes in the school. Last year’s sports budget was $29,000 broken down as follows: $15,000 teacher stipends for coaching, $7,000 transportation, and $7,000 for officials.
A discussion ensued over coaching- many parents who are certified and wiling to volunteer as coaches. Mr. Piparo said coaching jobs first have to be offered to the teachers first as per the union contract. Those present cited no objection to cutting transportation from the budget- let parents work out transportation issues.
The discussion shifted to the idea of a “pay to play” program. One person thought parents would be willing to spend $100 per person per sport. There are costs that come from being in a conference. There was discussion about having an activity fee which would include other activities for students besides sports, similar to a lab fee in high school / college. Dr. Harttraft mentioned the possibility of charging a facility fee once the school addition is complete.
Recreation Commission members Mark Mroz and Kevin Suydam were asked what the Recreation Commission could do to help the situation. Mr. Mroz explained the RC’s basketball program and how it operates and the costs involved. When asked if they could contribute financially to the school sports program Mr. Mroz said their budget is tied to the municipal budget which was just approved for 2010.
Additional conversation occurred concerning technology and the role of computers in the classroom.
The next meeting is scheduled for 8/17/10; the topics will include the property in the back of the school, the long term viability of the district, and what about the possibility of construction delays.
Two of the three REPAIR meetings are now in the rear view mirror- so what’s my take? I am encouraged by the discussions and think it is a good thing that we all talk about what the issues are- whatever they may be- at least we are talking about them to each other face to face in an atmosphere that is not “charged” the way public hearings can be. Between the ongoing school building construction, adjusting to the new school budget, and preparing for next year’s budget- these are three great reasons why we should continue to meet, perhaps on a quarterly basis.
Wednesday, July 14: Land Use Board
This was out last meeting for the summer- no new business for the second meeting of the month, and the Board traditionally takes the month of August off. We had two new business items on the agenda.
Representatives of the School were present to give the Board an update on the school construction and to respond to the Board’s 5/12/10 review letter of the school construction project. Overall the discussion went well, the construction is running on time, and it was pleasant to see that the School representatives were receptive to the Board’s comments, one even helped save the school money!
The second new business item was a discussion with Shop Rite about a proposed expansion of about 6,400 square feet. They want to expand where the pet store, former postal annex, and dry cleaner are located. The additional space will be used for dairy and frozen food as well as the Shop Rite from Home Internet Department. The expansion will have no impact on parking or traffic; no site work is proposed and there is no requirement for increased parking.
Friday, July 16: Out and About
I chose to spend half of my vacation day doing township business. I met with our engineer Rick Roseberry of Maser Consulting and a property owner on a site, I met with our Public Safety Director Ken Mandoli and got a tour of the police department, I visited the summer recreation program that was in full swing when I stopped by, and I met with our employees at the Public Works Department on Locust Grove Road.
To me, how I felt on Friday is what being on the Township Committee is all about. Besides the public meetings every other Thursday there are so many other things “in play”. The tax payers who expect a certain level of service, our children who take part in community recreation programs, and the employees of the town who dedicate themselves to their job and do their very best- all of these things made a tremendous impact on me today. It was one of those days I will always remember as a committeeman.
Thursday, July 22: Town Committee Meeting
Pretty busy meeting- there were only 3 of us present so we had to extra duty in making motions and giving reports. We occupied ourselves with the following business:
-We adopted the meeting minutes from July 8 and July 13.
-We conducted the 1st public hearing for Ordinance 2010-07 “Establishing Fees, Special Service Charges Under the NJ Open Public Records Act”. The second hearing is scheduled for August 12.
-We authorized payment of the bills including big ticket items like $529,748 for the North Hunterdon / Voorhees School District, and $9,024 for the Municipal Court of North Hunterdon.
-We approved the 2009 audit prepared by William Colantano, Jr., CPA.
-We joined the Municipal Alliance for year 2011. The Municipal Alliance provides substance abuse prevention programming to the schools and community. There is no out of pocket cost to be a member of the Alliance.
-We are preparing a Local Aid grant application to the NJ Dept. of Transportation for funding of the West Sidney Road repairs, Phase II. Phase I was partially funded with state grant money so we are intending to make the August 13 deadline so we can begin the second phase of repair work.
-We are ready to release the performance bond for site work (removal of a barn structure) related to Block 39, Lot 9; we should have the resolution ready for the next meeting.
-I updated the Committee on the July 12 Environmental Commission meeting and July 14 Land Use Board meeting.
-Representatives from the Hunterdon Land Trust (http://www.hlta.org) were present as well as Open Space Committee representative John Demarrais to discuss possible land acquisitions.
Saturday, July 24: Public Safety / D.A.R.E Day
My wife and two sons joined the Franklin Police Department for their 6th Annual Public Safety / D.A.R.E Day at the Clinton Elks Lodge. While it was a little on the hot and humid side, plenty of folks came out to support our police department and D.A.R.E program. Many other law enforcement agencies were in attendance, including a state police helicopter.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
June 27 – July 10, 2010
It has been interesting watching the action in Trenton over the last few weeks as our state legislators and Governor wrangled over and finally agreed to a 2% cap on property tax increases. There are exceptions to the rule which include healthcare costs, pension costs, debt service, capital expenditures and emergency allocations. To exceed the cap there needs to be voter approval (50 percent plus one).
As a local elected official does the 2% cap make my job easier or harder? Let’s just say at this point in time it makes it more “interesting”. There are many state reforms in the works for property tax relief initiatives. As your locally elected official I need to continue to find ways to stretch our dollar when it comes to our municipal budget and expenditures. While we just passed the 2011 budget in May, it is never too early to be thinking about next year’s budget. As the folks in Trenton flex their muscles, I will do my best to report back to Franklin residents how we will be affected.
Monday June 28 Environmental Commission
The Commission lacked a meeting quorum so they were not able to act on official business but there were enough present to have some lively, non-binding discussions! The Committee will meet again on July 12 and they intend on working on a septic maintenance education document that will be inserted into all resident’s tax bill in August. We have had over 60 responses to our voluntary septic registration form- thank you to all who have participated so far!
Thursday July 8 Township Committee
Boy was it hot on the second floor of the municipal building. Sure we had 2 AC window blasting but a little extra ice in the drinks wouldn’t have hurt. Since we all wanted to be home before Lebron James made his big announcement we trudged mightily through the democratic process and ended our meeting at 8:50 pm. I am kidding about us all wanting to go home early because of King James- I think our meeting was shorter than usual because Committeeman McGeary was absent but that’s just my opinion.
On our agenda and official business conducted included the following:
• We approved our June 24 executive session and regular meeting minutes.
• Out tax collector reported collecting $106,036.79 for the month of June. We “paid the bills”- the check run totaling $989,085.86.
• We approved Ordinance 2010-16 authorizing $37,000 for the purchase of a sport utility vehicle for the Department of Public Safety.
• We approved Resolution 2010-54 increasing the bid threshold for contracting units governed by the Local Public Contracts Law from $21,000 to $26,000. We established our quote threshold at $3,900. Both of these figures will be in effect fro 5 years. When preparing myself for this vote I found this link from the NJ League of Municipalities most helpful: http://www.njslom.org/magart0607_pg34.html
• Quakertown Fire Company Chief Brad Patkochis gave the Committee a 6 month status report since the QFC took over the EMS services in town. The original study recommended 6 month status reports. Thank you Brad for following the recommendations made in the report. Chief Patkochis reported 90 medical emergencies since 12/18/2009; in no instances have they not been able to field a crew for a call. They continue to recruit new people, and they have been able to deliver emergency medical services to the town as promised. Chief Patkochis continues to talk with residents and community groups about the EMS services. For more information on the QFC check out their website at http://www.quakertownfire.com/ or just stop by the station I am sure they would be happy to give you a tour.
• We approved Resolution 2010-57 declaring that third quarter 2010 tax bills will not be available for mailing prior to the “the 25th day preceding August 10 (you do the math) and that the taxes are not subject to interest “until the later of: August 1; or the 10 day grace period, or the 25th day after the tax bills for third quarter are mailed”. File under “boring but important”.
• We approved Resolution 2010-58 acknowledging receipt of a redeemed tax sale certificate for Block 16, Lot 56 in the amount of $11,053.74, and $6,300,00.
• Police Director Mandoli gave his June 2010 report which included 145 motor vehicle summonses, 126 motor vehicle warnings, four adult arrests, and 3 warrants served. There were 16 animal complaints and besides the dog and cat calls there were a number of bear calls as well. Bears are no joke for those who have been a little too close for comfort- I have twice while hiking Mt. Tammany at the Delaware Water Gap. Here is a website that offers tips on dealing with bears: http://www.njskylands.com/ecobears.htm. Director Mandoli also reported on the a full scale emergency exercise was held at the township school- 150 emergency responders had the opportunity to practice their life saving skills in an emergency scenario which was in this case a straight line wind reaching 80 mph and then a tornado hitting the school. Sound far-fetched? Not to me- last July a straight line wind hit my property and knocked 2 trees onto the roof of my house!
• The Committee accepted the Public Works June monthly report. The DPW has been busy with mowing, equipment maintenance and repair, hot asphalt repairs, sign installations, and maintaining our recycling center on Locust Grove Road.
• James Ingram of Evergreen Environmental http://www.evergreenenvironmental.com/main.html spoke to the Committee about the possible outright purchase or purchasing an easement from the town on a township owned property- Lot 17.04 in Block 26 (the EMS Building on CR 513). Reason being: Evergreen Environmental creates/restores/enhances / preserves wetlands, riparian buffers, and wildlife habitats. They were hired by TRANSCO- Transcontinental Pipeline Company to restore wetlands for them as they disturb wetlands in areas where they are expanding / building natural gas pipelines. Evidently TRANSCO is in the neighborhood and Lot 17.04 is a good candidate for wetlands restoration. The Committee expressed an interest in this proposal and asked our township attorney to look further into it. There is more to it than what I can explain in this blog- call me should you have any questions I can explain it better in person.
• Our township clerk gave us her monthly report- highlights include receipt of 60 septic registration forms, OPRA request update, and working with the State Division of Archives and Records Management on records retention matters.
• We approved Resolution 2010-55 acknowledging the retirement of Plumbing Subcode Official Stewart Doddy effective August 1, 2010.
• I reported to the Committee that the Recreation Commission did not meet in July due to lack of a meeting quorum.
In my last blog entry I forgot to mention that we received our Year 2009 Audit. Good reading if you like audits- regardless for those armchair economists who believe they can help the township save on costs, stop down to the municipal building and ask to see a copy of the 2009 audit. I welcome your comments and thoughts.
As a local elected official does the 2% cap make my job easier or harder? Let’s just say at this point in time it makes it more “interesting”. There are many state reforms in the works for property tax relief initiatives. As your locally elected official I need to continue to find ways to stretch our dollar when it comes to our municipal budget and expenditures. While we just passed the 2011 budget in May, it is never too early to be thinking about next year’s budget. As the folks in Trenton flex their muscles, I will do my best to report back to Franklin residents how we will be affected.
Monday June 28 Environmental Commission
The Commission lacked a meeting quorum so they were not able to act on official business but there were enough present to have some lively, non-binding discussions! The Committee will meet again on July 12 and they intend on working on a septic maintenance education document that will be inserted into all resident’s tax bill in August. We have had over 60 responses to our voluntary septic registration form- thank you to all who have participated so far!
Thursday July 8 Township Committee
Boy was it hot on the second floor of the municipal building. Sure we had 2 AC window blasting but a little extra ice in the drinks wouldn’t have hurt. Since we all wanted to be home before Lebron James made his big announcement we trudged mightily through the democratic process and ended our meeting at 8:50 pm. I am kidding about us all wanting to go home early because of King James- I think our meeting was shorter than usual because Committeeman McGeary was absent but that’s just my opinion.
On our agenda and official business conducted included the following:
• We approved our June 24 executive session and regular meeting minutes.
• Out tax collector reported collecting $106,036.79 for the month of June. We “paid the bills”- the check run totaling $989,085.86.
• We approved Ordinance 2010-16 authorizing $37,000 for the purchase of a sport utility vehicle for the Department of Public Safety.
• We approved Resolution 2010-54 increasing the bid threshold for contracting units governed by the Local Public Contracts Law from $21,000 to $26,000. We established our quote threshold at $3,900. Both of these figures will be in effect fro 5 years. When preparing myself for this vote I found this link from the NJ League of Municipalities most helpful: http://www.njslom.org/magart0607_pg34.html
• Quakertown Fire Company Chief Brad Patkochis gave the Committee a 6 month status report since the QFC took over the EMS services in town. The original study recommended 6 month status reports. Thank you Brad for following the recommendations made in the report. Chief Patkochis reported 90 medical emergencies since 12/18/2009; in no instances have they not been able to field a crew for a call. They continue to recruit new people, and they have been able to deliver emergency medical services to the town as promised. Chief Patkochis continues to talk with residents and community groups about the EMS services. For more information on the QFC check out their website at http://www.quakertownfire.com/ or just stop by the station I am sure they would be happy to give you a tour.
• We approved Resolution 2010-57 declaring that third quarter 2010 tax bills will not be available for mailing prior to the “the 25th day preceding August 10 (you do the math) and that the taxes are not subject to interest “until the later of: August 1; or the 10 day grace period, or the 25th day after the tax bills for third quarter are mailed”. File under “boring but important”.
• We approved Resolution 2010-58 acknowledging receipt of a redeemed tax sale certificate for Block 16, Lot 56 in the amount of $11,053.74, and $6,300,00.
• Police Director Mandoli gave his June 2010 report which included 145 motor vehicle summonses, 126 motor vehicle warnings, four adult arrests, and 3 warrants served. There were 16 animal complaints and besides the dog and cat calls there were a number of bear calls as well. Bears are no joke for those who have been a little too close for comfort- I have twice while hiking Mt. Tammany at the Delaware Water Gap. Here is a website that offers tips on dealing with bears: http://www.njskylands.com/ecobears.htm. Director Mandoli also reported on the a full scale emergency exercise was held at the township school- 150 emergency responders had the opportunity to practice their life saving skills in an emergency scenario which was in this case a straight line wind reaching 80 mph and then a tornado hitting the school. Sound far-fetched? Not to me- last July a straight line wind hit my property and knocked 2 trees onto the roof of my house!
• The Committee accepted the Public Works June monthly report. The DPW has been busy with mowing, equipment maintenance and repair, hot asphalt repairs, sign installations, and maintaining our recycling center on Locust Grove Road.
• James Ingram of Evergreen Environmental http://www.evergreenenvironmental.com/main.html spoke to the Committee about the possible outright purchase or purchasing an easement from the town on a township owned property- Lot 17.04 in Block 26 (the EMS Building on CR 513). Reason being: Evergreen Environmental creates/restores/enhances / preserves wetlands, riparian buffers, and wildlife habitats. They were hired by TRANSCO- Transcontinental Pipeline Company to restore wetlands for them as they disturb wetlands in areas where they are expanding / building natural gas pipelines. Evidently TRANSCO is in the neighborhood and Lot 17.04 is a good candidate for wetlands restoration. The Committee expressed an interest in this proposal and asked our township attorney to look further into it. There is more to it than what I can explain in this blog- call me should you have any questions I can explain it better in person.
• Our township clerk gave us her monthly report- highlights include receipt of 60 septic registration forms, OPRA request update, and working with the State Division of Archives and Records Management on records retention matters.
• We approved Resolution 2010-55 acknowledging the retirement of Plumbing Subcode Official Stewart Doddy effective August 1, 2010.
• I reported to the Committee that the Recreation Commission did not meet in July due to lack of a meeting quorum.
In my last blog entry I forgot to mention that we received our Year 2009 Audit. Good reading if you like audits- regardless for those armchair economists who believe they can help the township save on costs, stop down to the municipal building and ask to see a copy of the 2009 audit. I welcome your comments and thoughts.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
January - June 2010: My First 6 Months on the Job...
From time to time I will use my blog to communicate what holding elected office means to me; here are some of my random observations after my first 6 months on the job:
1. The elected office is bigger than any person; people come and go but the title of the elected office prevails. Even on the local level, this premise holds true.
2. 2010 being my first year on the Finance subcommittee, I look forward to serving in the same capacity during next year’s municipal budget preparation. I am following our different department’s spending patterns so as we go through this budget cycle next year I will have had the advantage of observing a spending cycle.
3. It has been a busy 6 months- some of the issues that I spent substantial time with included the defeated fire budget, the Wahba hearing, preparing the municipal budget, and the defeated school budget. All of these issues were very important and I could not imagine not giving each issue 110% of my effort and time.
4. The June primaries have resulted in most likely two new committeepersons being sworn to office in January 2011- Vigdis Austad, and Sue Campbell. Congratulations to them both and I look forward to working with them. I have heard some folks grumbling about why Sue and Vigdis haven’t yet attended a committee meeting and I have this to say: I didn’t begin to attend regularly until after the November elections- out of respect for the person I was replacing on the Committee. After November I began getting my involvement with more intensity so I would be able to hit the ground running in January. So Sue and Vigdis- enjoy your nights for now because work awaits you!
5. I am planning on spending the remaining 2010 working on 1) next year’s municipal budget, 2) help the Board of Education- however I can- on completing their addition on time, 3) working with the Land Use Board and Environmental Commission with some ordinances that have been “hanging around” for awhile, 4) continue to work with the Recreation Commission on their projects and programs, and 5) whatever else pops up on the radar.
6. I have begun exploring the options/costs for a “community shred” at one of our household cleanup Saturdays… a shred event for sensitive papers, etc. Some towns do it and I am following up on some internet resources I found. If anyone reading this is a) vehemently opposed to this, or b) is in favor and would like to help, please email me or call 908-797-4140.
7. The online news sources are here to stay. I still subscribe to the Hunterdon Democrat newspaper but I also read the local online news sources- including the comments section which I joking refer to as the peanut gallery. The comment section on the online news provides people with a way to be heard with an option of not revealing one own’s identity; views range from contributory and sensitive, to the inaccurate and hurtful. This anonymity bothers some people, others are indifferent to it, and some ardently support the right to anonymity. I fall into the indifferent category. One thing I’ve learned while a committeeman- my thoughts and decisions are public fodder and are attributed to me- for better or for worse and it would be nice if everyone could contribute to the issues with the same courtesy. I consider “peanut gallery” comments a fact of life, and something that has a place in the public record so type away keyboard cowboys but before hitting “send” I ask that you read what you have typed aloud and imagine saying it at a packed public forum.
8. At the June 7 Board of Ed meeting Rich Cavallaro spoke to the Board about the possibility of a public park at the parcel behind the school that the Board owns. This discussion has sparked the debate about the need / desire to have a public park, and if so, where, and what will it have? The Township Committee has requested that the Land Use Board take the helm on this one and prepare a Recreation Element for our Master Plan. An example of a Recreation Master Plan Element can be found for Hopewell Township here: http://www.hopewelltwp.org/Open_Space-Recreation_Plan_Element.pdf Each town is different, and we have a lot of this information already, it has not been collected and reviewed as a whole. The master plan is considered the guiding document of a municipality and with a Recreation Element we can make sure that any public time or monies that are invested into a park we will know that the decision to do so was made with up to date, accurate information with the recommendations of the Land Use Board. I fully expect the Recreation Commission to have a say in the preparation of this Element so stay tuned.
Overall, I am truly enjoying being a Committeeman. The subject matter is exciting, the work is for a good cause. As always, I want to hear what you have to say so speak up, it is your right.
1. The elected office is bigger than any person; people come and go but the title of the elected office prevails. Even on the local level, this premise holds true.
2. 2010 being my first year on the Finance subcommittee, I look forward to serving in the same capacity during next year’s municipal budget preparation. I am following our different department’s spending patterns so as we go through this budget cycle next year I will have had the advantage of observing a spending cycle.
3. It has been a busy 6 months- some of the issues that I spent substantial time with included the defeated fire budget, the Wahba hearing, preparing the municipal budget, and the defeated school budget. All of these issues were very important and I could not imagine not giving each issue 110% of my effort and time.
4. The June primaries have resulted in most likely two new committeepersons being sworn to office in January 2011- Vigdis Austad, and Sue Campbell. Congratulations to them both and I look forward to working with them. I have heard some folks grumbling about why Sue and Vigdis haven’t yet attended a committee meeting and I have this to say: I didn’t begin to attend regularly until after the November elections- out of respect for the person I was replacing on the Committee. After November I began getting my involvement with more intensity so I would be able to hit the ground running in January. So Sue and Vigdis- enjoy your nights for now because work awaits you!
5. I am planning on spending the remaining 2010 working on 1) next year’s municipal budget, 2) help the Board of Education- however I can- on completing their addition on time, 3) working with the Land Use Board and Environmental Commission with some ordinances that have been “hanging around” for awhile, 4) continue to work with the Recreation Commission on their projects and programs, and 5) whatever else pops up on the radar.
6. I have begun exploring the options/costs for a “community shred” at one of our household cleanup Saturdays… a shred event for sensitive papers, etc. Some towns do it and I am following up on some internet resources I found. If anyone reading this is a) vehemently opposed to this, or b) is in favor and would like to help, please email me or call 908-797-4140.
7. The online news sources are here to stay. I still subscribe to the Hunterdon Democrat newspaper but I also read the local online news sources- including the comments section which I joking refer to as the peanut gallery. The comment section on the online news provides people with a way to be heard with an option of not revealing one own’s identity; views range from contributory and sensitive, to the inaccurate and hurtful. This anonymity bothers some people, others are indifferent to it, and some ardently support the right to anonymity. I fall into the indifferent category. One thing I’ve learned while a committeeman- my thoughts and decisions are public fodder and are attributed to me- for better or for worse and it would be nice if everyone could contribute to the issues with the same courtesy. I consider “peanut gallery” comments a fact of life, and something that has a place in the public record so type away keyboard cowboys but before hitting “send” I ask that you read what you have typed aloud and imagine saying it at a packed public forum.
8. At the June 7 Board of Ed meeting Rich Cavallaro spoke to the Board about the possibility of a public park at the parcel behind the school that the Board owns. This discussion has sparked the debate about the need / desire to have a public park, and if so, where, and what will it have? The Township Committee has requested that the Land Use Board take the helm on this one and prepare a Recreation Element for our Master Plan. An example of a Recreation Master Plan Element can be found for Hopewell Township here: http://www.hopewelltwp.org/Open_Space-Recreation_Plan_Element.pdf Each town is different, and we have a lot of this information already, it has not been collected and reviewed as a whole. The master plan is considered the guiding document of a municipality and with a Recreation Element we can make sure that any public time or monies that are invested into a park we will know that the decision to do so was made with up to date, accurate information with the recommendations of the Land Use Board. I fully expect the Recreation Commission to have a say in the preparation of this Element so stay tuned.
Overall, I am truly enjoying being a Committeeman. The subject matter is exciting, the work is for a good cause. As always, I want to hear what you have to say so speak up, it is your right.
June 13 – June 26, 2010
Tuesday June 15 REPAIR Meeting (Restore Programs and Improve intra-community Relations)
Those present: Chris Piparo, Kate Mahoney, John Gomez, Lyn Charibind, Paul Dahan, Alba Burdick, Dan Connor, Janine Gordan, Joanne Coe, Christine Thompson, Minga Cullen, Dr. Harttraft, Delores Wright, Nicky Noscar, Roberta Fleming, and Kim Lundgren
Mr. Piparo provided a PowerPoint handout- it was very brief and covered ground rules, topics, objectives, committee members. Summarized quickly, there are 4 important subject matter: 1) short term budget issues, 2) public perception / communication, 3) getting future school budgets approved, and 4) long term planning issues.
The meeting also included discussion on the following:
1) whether an "educational foundation" is needed to do this type of work rather than the REPAIR committee;
2) a change in public perception is needed;
3) there is a need to publicize the good things the school does with the community, not just for themselves, i.e.: food bank, jeans day for charity- "there is good stuff the school is doing that is not getting across"
4) the town should look for ways to increase the tax base;
5)"this is a bridge year, we are looking for ways to bring back funds and build revenue".
6) work on publicizing the program called CAST: "community and staff working together... another way of asking residents to work lunch and playground duty.
7) there is a successful "artist-in-residency" program; talk of expanding that idea into other careers / hobbies and interests..
There are 2 more meetings scheduled: July 13, and August 17. There were some folks who were invited but were not in attendance. All those present expressed no objection to being named as a REPAIR member. Mr. Piparo did mention that some folks he approached did not want to be part of the committee. The meeting started at 3:30 PM and ended promptly at 5:00pm.
Comments #4 concerning increasing our tax base and #5 about generating revenue are areas where I know I can be the most helpful, so I am looking forward to the next 2 REPAIR meetings to see how we brainstorm on ways to increase our tax base and increase revenue for the school.
===========
Wednesday June 23 Franklin Land Use Board Meeting
The Board heard 2 zoning applications of which both I had to recuse myself- a proposal to add panels to an existing communications tower, and the second application seeking variances to construct a garage. At the next meeting (July 14), the school board is expected to be in attendance to provide a status update on the school addition.
===========
Thursday June 24 Township Committee Meeting
Where is everyone? Nothing else better to do on a Thursday night? Come on down to the municipal building- we have air conditioning! We also have a pretty lousy sound system at this time which we hope to remedy soon.
Highlights from the meeting include:
1. Approved 5/27 and 6/10 meeting minutes;
2. Payment of Bills, we are going to look into the Aramark floor rug service- we think it might be not necessary and will give us some additional savings.
3. Public Safety: An emergency drill is scheduled at the township school on Monday June 28.
4. First reading of ordinance 2010-06 authorizing the purchase of a sport utility vehicle for the Dept of Public Safety for $37,000
5. Approved Resolution 2010-51 granting a liquor license renewal for the Quakertown Recreation Club
6. Approved Resolution 2010-52 granting a liquor license renewal for the Clinton Elks Lodge
7. Approved Resolution 2010-26A and 26B granting a liquor license renewal for Clinton Wine & Spirits, Inc.
8. Rich Cavallaro spoke to the Committee about his meeting with the Board of Education in which he discussed having a public park behind the school building. His talk generated comments from those present in the audience.
9. John Demarais of the Open Space Committee gave us a report on ongoing land acquisitions and possible future acquisitions.
10. Land Use Board Chairman Jim Stryker gave us a Land Use Board update, and provided comment on the public park discussion.
11. I announced that the Environmental Commission is going to help prepare an insert about septic maintenance which will be included in the tax bills which go out to property owners annually in July.
12. Plumbing Subcode Official Stewart Doddy announced his retirement effective August 1, 2010.
13. We went into executive session and came out with a publically announced decision: we let go our township attorney Valerie Kimson and hired Anthony Koester as her replacement effective June 25. Mr. Koester is part of the law firm of Dilts & Koester in Flemington. Their website is: http://www.hunterdonlegal.com/. Things just were not working out with Ms. Kimson; I wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.
Those present: Chris Piparo, Kate Mahoney, John Gomez, Lyn Charibind, Paul Dahan, Alba Burdick, Dan Connor, Janine Gordan, Joanne Coe, Christine Thompson, Minga Cullen, Dr. Harttraft, Delores Wright, Nicky Noscar, Roberta Fleming, and Kim Lundgren
Mr. Piparo provided a PowerPoint handout- it was very brief and covered ground rules, topics, objectives, committee members. Summarized quickly, there are 4 important subject matter: 1) short term budget issues, 2) public perception / communication, 3) getting future school budgets approved, and 4) long term planning issues.
The meeting also included discussion on the following:
1) whether an "educational foundation" is needed to do this type of work rather than the REPAIR committee;
2) a change in public perception is needed;
3) there is a need to publicize the good things the school does with the community, not just for themselves, i.e.: food bank, jeans day for charity- "there is good stuff the school is doing that is not getting across"
4) the town should look for ways to increase the tax base;
5)"this is a bridge year, we are looking for ways to bring back funds and build revenue".
6) work on publicizing the program called CAST: "community and staff working together... another way of asking residents to work lunch and playground duty.
7) there is a successful "artist-in-residency" program; talk of expanding that idea into other careers / hobbies and interests..
There are 2 more meetings scheduled: July 13, and August 17. There were some folks who were invited but were not in attendance. All those present expressed no objection to being named as a REPAIR member. Mr. Piparo did mention that some folks he approached did not want to be part of the committee. The meeting started at 3:30 PM and ended promptly at 5:00pm.
Comments #4 concerning increasing our tax base and #5 about generating revenue are areas where I know I can be the most helpful, so I am looking forward to the next 2 REPAIR meetings to see how we brainstorm on ways to increase our tax base and increase revenue for the school.
===========
Wednesday June 23 Franklin Land Use Board Meeting
The Board heard 2 zoning applications of which both I had to recuse myself- a proposal to add panels to an existing communications tower, and the second application seeking variances to construct a garage. At the next meeting (July 14), the school board is expected to be in attendance to provide a status update on the school addition.
===========
Thursday June 24 Township Committee Meeting
Where is everyone? Nothing else better to do on a Thursday night? Come on down to the municipal building- we have air conditioning! We also have a pretty lousy sound system at this time which we hope to remedy soon.
Highlights from the meeting include:
1. Approved 5/27 and 6/10 meeting minutes;
2. Payment of Bills, we are going to look into the Aramark floor rug service- we think it might be not necessary and will give us some additional savings.
3. Public Safety: An emergency drill is scheduled at the township school on Monday June 28.
4. First reading of ordinance 2010-06 authorizing the purchase of a sport utility vehicle for the Dept of Public Safety for $37,000
5. Approved Resolution 2010-51 granting a liquor license renewal for the Quakertown Recreation Club
6. Approved Resolution 2010-52 granting a liquor license renewal for the Clinton Elks Lodge
7. Approved Resolution 2010-26A and 26B granting a liquor license renewal for Clinton Wine & Spirits, Inc.
8. Rich Cavallaro spoke to the Committee about his meeting with the Board of Education in which he discussed having a public park behind the school building. His talk generated comments from those present in the audience.
9. John Demarais of the Open Space Committee gave us a report on ongoing land acquisitions and possible future acquisitions.
10. Land Use Board Chairman Jim Stryker gave us a Land Use Board update, and provided comment on the public park discussion.
11. I announced that the Environmental Commission is going to help prepare an insert about septic maintenance which will be included in the tax bills which go out to property owners annually in July.
12. Plumbing Subcode Official Stewart Doddy announced his retirement effective August 1, 2010.
13. We went into executive session and came out with a publically announced decision: we let go our township attorney Valerie Kimson and hired Anthony Koester as her replacement effective June 25. Mr. Koester is part of the law firm of Dilts & Koester in Flemington. Their website is: http://www.hunterdonlegal.com/. Things just were not working out with Ms. Kimson; I wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
May 30 – June 12, 2010
Tuesday June 1 was the monthly Recreation Commission meeting. A quorum was not present so no official business could be conducted. Summer Program Director Joanne Hyland was in attendance and she presented the Summer Recreation program being held July 12-23. For more information on the summer program check out:
http://www.franklin-twp.org/Franklin_Township_Recreation_registration_school.pdf
I learned that at the May 27 Township Committee meeting, resident Richard Cavallaro was appointed to the Recreation Commission. Welcome aboard Richard, thank you for volunteering your time to Franklin Township.
==========================
Tues June 7: the Board of Education meeting.
The Hunterdon Democrat filed two reports on the meeting- one on the impacts of the school board budget, and the second- a presentation on ideas for a public park.
First, the school budget:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/06/franklin_township_school_offic.html
I attended the meeting, and while the impact of the budget is substantial, I was encouraged by Minga Cullen- a teacher at the school and head of the teacher’s local union. As the paper reported, she told parents to “try to get some sleep, and things will work out”. Listening to Ms. Cullen I was given the impression that the teachers are ready to perform under the new budget and are ready for the challenge of a new teaching plan.
Here is Superintendent Dr. Chrys Hartraft’s latest update (June 11) on the school budget and building addition:
http://www.ftschool.org/FTS_HOME/FTS_Home_New_files/parent%20ltr%206-11.pdf
Second, the Idea of a Public Park:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/06/franklin_twp_school_build_a_pa.html
Richard Cavallaro spoke to the Board about the possibility of building a park on a 20.8 acre parcel the school owns- behind the school abutting Locust Grove Road. I am glad the topic of an active recreation park is being discussed, the concept is something that I support but I am not sure if this location is the best for the township. All options should be explored, beginning with hearing from residents of the pros and cons of a park in the township and an inventory / cost and benefit assessment of potential park locations. This isn’t something that is going to happen overnight; I want to hear from you what- if any- park you envision for Franklin. I am a land use planner and I have some ideas but I want to hear from you too. A few side notes / commentary about the presentation by Mr. Cavallaro: 1) Rich was just appointed to the Rec Commission- so recently that he hasn’t yet to be formally introduced to them - that should happen at the July meeting. Rich and I discussed this and he went into the meeting not as a Rec Commission representative, but as a resident. While the Rec Commission discusses what their role should be- if any- with the park, I ask that the Land Use Board look into preparing a Recreation Element to the master plan.
This June 15 I will be attending the first meeting of a community group called REPAIR- Restore Programs and Improve intra-community Relations. The group will include teachers, school board members, members of the Township Committee, and citizens. I am eager to come up with some workable solutions to reinstating the programs that were cut and to generate new channels of communication and relations.
===============
Tues June 8: the Primary Election
Congratulations to Susan Campbell and Vigdis Austad for winning the Republican primary for Township Committee (3 year term). Get to know them at their website
http://www.ftvote.com/Site/Meet_the_Township_Committee_Candidates.html
Should there be no challenges in the General election this November, I look forward to working with Ms. Campbell and Ms. Austad on the Township Committee in 2011.
Congratulations also to elected County Republican Committee members Scott Sautner & Laura Gilmore (District 1), Martin Bercaw & Susan Blew (District 2), and Mike Innella & Matt Peterson (District 3). To learn more about the newly elected Republican Committee members, check out their bios at:
http://www.ftvote.com/Site/Meet_the_County_Republican_Committee_Candidates.html
Susan Blew is not listed on the above website, but here is some info on the farm Susan and her family own and operate:
http://www.ftschool.org/fourth/historic.farms/oak.grove/oak.grove.index.html
I am eager to meet with the Republican Committee members; they all play an important role in choosing candidates to run on the Republican Party platform here in town, and they also vote at county Republican functions. I think it would be great and would welcome and applaud the move to put together a website to inform the public with what the Republican Committee does, when they meet, etc.
==========
Thursday June 10 was the Township Committee meeting. A quick rundown of our actions:
1. We approved meeting minutes for May 18 (Special and Executive Session).
2. We approved Ordinance 2010-02 which amended the “Police Department” Chapter 75 of the Code book. The changes were “house cleaning” in nature- deleted the title “Director of Public Safety, and replaced it with “Police Director”. The notice was printed in the Hunterdon Democrat on June 3 and is now available at the Clerk’s Office for review.
3. We approved Bond Ordinance 2010-04 authorizing the improvement of West Sydney Road- a $350,000 job. Our bond down payment is 10%, or $35,000. The NJ Department of Transportation is contributing $150,000 towards the project.
4. We approved Ordinance 2010-05 authorizing the replacement of an Alamo boom mower head for the Dept. of Public works at a cost of $12,000- the funds coming from the Capital Improvement Fund. http://www.alamo-industrial.com/products/productview.asp?childcategoryid=9&parentcategoryID=4&productid=59
5. Tax Collector Linda Swackhamer reported for May 2010 we collected $2,053,555 in taxes.
6. We paid the bills. Of note: $2,080 paid to Ardito & Co. for the school budget audit$1,140 to Kasper Disposal for May household cleanup, and $22,250 to Stephen F. Smith, Jr., retired judge who was the hearing office for the Wahba matter.
7. Police Director Ken Mandoli gave his May 2010 monthly report which included 193 motor vehicle summonses, 158 motor vehicle warnings, 8 adult arrests, and 4 juvenile arrests.
8. Dept. of Public Works Supervisor submitted his May 2010 monthly report.
9. We passed Resolution 2010-48 certifying that the monies we received from a recycling tonnage grant are deposited in a dedicated recycling trust fund to be used solely for the purpose of recycling.
10. We passed Resolution 2010-49 which accepted bids for 2010 roadway maintenance and repair materials- we combined purchasing power with Delaware and Kingwood Townships to help get the best prices. Of the 4 bidders (Stavola, Flemington Bituminous, Trap Rock Industries, and Garden State Asphalt), Stavola was the winning bidder.
11. We approved a 39 month, $153 / month copier lease for our Cannon Image Runner 3245 copier.
12. We approved Resolution 2010-46 re-appointing Township Clerk Ursula Stryker as municipal clerk for June 14, 2010 – June 14, 2013. You do a great job Ursula, congratulations!
13. We authorized a professional services agreement with John O’ Reilly, Esq. for a single matter pertaining to Wahba litigation in an amount not to exceed $20,000. For more information on the Wahba matter, go to the Hunterdon County Superior Court in Flemington and ask to see docket # L-287-10. You will have access to everything the Town Committee has, and you can draw your own conclusion.
14. Our Township Zoning Office submitted his monthly report for May 2010- six zoning applications.
15. We approved Resolution 2010-44 agreeing to hire George Reichert as Construction Official on an as-needed basis for $25.00 per inspection.
16. We approved Resolution 2010-45 agreeing to hire Phillip Izzo as substitute inspector (Building Dept.) for $25.00 per inspection.
17. We approved Resolution 2010-41 setting the open space tax rate at 5 cents per $100 of assessed value.
18. We approved Resolution 2010-47 agreeing to a construction and maintenance agreement for common access to Lots 1.03, 1.04, and 1.02 in Block 25 with the condition that the existing driveway be relocated within 60 days or less and that the area of the previous driveway be restored to grass.
19. We approved Resolution 2010-50- a “resolution of appreciation” for the following volunteers that ensure that the Township newsletter reaches residents in a timely manner: Joan Boyd, Carol Fox, Dottie Hartsell, Beverly Hockenbury, Helen Ihling, Karen Mullen, and Dot Ruggerio. Thank you ladies, your work is not unrecognized.
=========
http://www.franklin-twp.org/Franklin_Township_Recreation_registration_school.pdf
I learned that at the May 27 Township Committee meeting, resident Richard Cavallaro was appointed to the Recreation Commission. Welcome aboard Richard, thank you for volunteering your time to Franklin Township.
==========================
Tues June 7: the Board of Education meeting.
The Hunterdon Democrat filed two reports on the meeting- one on the impacts of the school board budget, and the second- a presentation on ideas for a public park.
First, the school budget:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/06/franklin_township_school_offic.html
I attended the meeting, and while the impact of the budget is substantial, I was encouraged by Minga Cullen- a teacher at the school and head of the teacher’s local union. As the paper reported, she told parents to “try to get some sleep, and things will work out”. Listening to Ms. Cullen I was given the impression that the teachers are ready to perform under the new budget and are ready for the challenge of a new teaching plan.
Here is Superintendent Dr. Chrys Hartraft’s latest update (June 11) on the school budget and building addition:
http://www.ftschool.org/FTS_HOME/FTS_Home_New_files/parent%20ltr%206-11.pdf
Second, the Idea of a Public Park:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2010/06/franklin_twp_school_build_a_pa.html
Richard Cavallaro spoke to the Board about the possibility of building a park on a 20.8 acre parcel the school owns- behind the school abutting Locust Grove Road. I am glad the topic of an active recreation park is being discussed, the concept is something that I support but I am not sure if this location is the best for the township. All options should be explored, beginning with hearing from residents of the pros and cons of a park in the township and an inventory / cost and benefit assessment of potential park locations. This isn’t something that is going to happen overnight; I want to hear from you what- if any- park you envision for Franklin. I am a land use planner and I have some ideas but I want to hear from you too. A few side notes / commentary about the presentation by Mr. Cavallaro: 1) Rich was just appointed to the Rec Commission- so recently that he hasn’t yet to be formally introduced to them - that should happen at the July meeting. Rich and I discussed this and he went into the meeting not as a Rec Commission representative, but as a resident. While the Rec Commission discusses what their role should be- if any- with the park, I ask that the Land Use Board look into preparing a Recreation Element to the master plan.
This June 15 I will be attending the first meeting of a community group called REPAIR- Restore Programs and Improve intra-community Relations. The group will include teachers, school board members, members of the Township Committee, and citizens. I am eager to come up with some workable solutions to reinstating the programs that were cut and to generate new channels of communication and relations.
===============
Tues June 8: the Primary Election
Congratulations to Susan Campbell and Vigdis Austad for winning the Republican primary for Township Committee (3 year term). Get to know them at their website
http://www.ftvote.com/Site/Meet_the_Township_Committee_Candidates.html
Should there be no challenges in the General election this November, I look forward to working with Ms. Campbell and Ms. Austad on the Township Committee in 2011.
Congratulations also to elected County Republican Committee members Scott Sautner & Laura Gilmore (District 1), Martin Bercaw & Susan Blew (District 2), and Mike Innella & Matt Peterson (District 3). To learn more about the newly elected Republican Committee members, check out their bios at:
http://www.ftvote.com/Site/Meet_the_County_Republican_Committee_Candidates.html
Susan Blew is not listed on the above website, but here is some info on the farm Susan and her family own and operate:
http://www.ftschool.org/fourth/historic.farms/oak.grove/oak.grove.index.html
I am eager to meet with the Republican Committee members; they all play an important role in choosing candidates to run on the Republican Party platform here in town, and they also vote at county Republican functions. I think it would be great and would welcome and applaud the move to put together a website to inform the public with what the Republican Committee does, when they meet, etc.
==========
Thursday June 10 was the Township Committee meeting. A quick rundown of our actions:
1. We approved meeting minutes for May 18 (Special and Executive Session).
2. We approved Ordinance 2010-02 which amended the “Police Department” Chapter 75 of the Code book. The changes were “house cleaning” in nature- deleted the title “Director of Public Safety, and replaced it with “Police Director”. The notice was printed in the Hunterdon Democrat on June 3 and is now available at the Clerk’s Office for review.
3. We approved Bond Ordinance 2010-04 authorizing the improvement of West Sydney Road- a $350,000 job. Our bond down payment is 10%, or $35,000. The NJ Department of Transportation is contributing $150,000 towards the project.
4. We approved Ordinance 2010-05 authorizing the replacement of an Alamo boom mower head for the Dept. of Public works at a cost of $12,000- the funds coming from the Capital Improvement Fund. http://www.alamo-industrial.com/products/productview.asp?childcategoryid=9&parentcategoryID=4&productid=59
5. Tax Collector Linda Swackhamer reported for May 2010 we collected $2,053,555 in taxes.
6. We paid the bills. Of note: $2,080 paid to Ardito & Co. for the school budget audit$1,140 to Kasper Disposal for May household cleanup, and $22,250 to Stephen F. Smith, Jr., retired judge who was the hearing office for the Wahba matter.
7. Police Director Ken Mandoli gave his May 2010 monthly report which included 193 motor vehicle summonses, 158 motor vehicle warnings, 8 adult arrests, and 4 juvenile arrests.
8. Dept. of Public Works Supervisor submitted his May 2010 monthly report.
9. We passed Resolution 2010-48 certifying that the monies we received from a recycling tonnage grant are deposited in a dedicated recycling trust fund to be used solely for the purpose of recycling.
10. We passed Resolution 2010-49 which accepted bids for 2010 roadway maintenance and repair materials- we combined purchasing power with Delaware and Kingwood Townships to help get the best prices. Of the 4 bidders (Stavola, Flemington Bituminous, Trap Rock Industries, and Garden State Asphalt), Stavola was the winning bidder.
11. We approved a 39 month, $153 / month copier lease for our Cannon Image Runner 3245 copier.
12. We approved Resolution 2010-46 re-appointing Township Clerk Ursula Stryker as municipal clerk for June 14, 2010 – June 14, 2013. You do a great job Ursula, congratulations!
13. We authorized a professional services agreement with John O’ Reilly, Esq. for a single matter pertaining to Wahba litigation in an amount not to exceed $20,000. For more information on the Wahba matter, go to the Hunterdon County Superior Court in Flemington and ask to see docket # L-287-10. You will have access to everything the Town Committee has, and you can draw your own conclusion.
14. Our Township Zoning Office submitted his monthly report for May 2010- six zoning applications.
15. We approved Resolution 2010-44 agreeing to hire George Reichert as Construction Official on an as-needed basis for $25.00 per inspection.
16. We approved Resolution 2010-45 agreeing to hire Phillip Izzo as substitute inspector (Building Dept.) for $25.00 per inspection.
17. We approved Resolution 2010-41 setting the open space tax rate at 5 cents per $100 of assessed value.
18. We approved Resolution 2010-47 agreeing to a construction and maintenance agreement for common access to Lots 1.03, 1.04, and 1.02 in Block 25 with the condition that the existing driveway be relocated within 60 days or less and that the area of the previous driveway be restored to grass.
19. We approved Resolution 2010-50- a “resolution of appreciation” for the following volunteers that ensure that the Township newsletter reaches residents in a timely manner: Joan Boyd, Carol Fox, Dottie Hartsell, Beverly Hockenbury, Helen Ihling, Karen Mullen, and Dot Ruggerio. Thank you ladies, your work is not unrecognized.
=========
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