It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Mayor of Franklin Township for 2011. Thank you to the Committee, our municipal employees, and our residents for placing your trust with me over this past year; I took each day and each decision I made very seriously with only the best interests of the township in mind.
From each Committee meeting to visits with residents at their homes, to my talks with our students at FTS, to working with our police officers, attending firefighter / EMS meetings, attending our Boy Scout's Court of Honor, and being in the dunk tank on Community Day... I have learned so much of the history and traditions of Franklin, but more importantly, I observed how active our residents are in local affairs- volunteerism, dedication, and sharing their talents and skill impressed me the most. Some folks love the budget, others the environment, and others take pride in teaching our next generation of residents. And if you love run-on sentences, then you loved the first sentence of this paragraph!
As I enter the third year of my term, I look forward to working with our new Mayor and the Committee in 2012. My blog updates in 2011 were not as frequent as they were in 2010 but fear not, I will provide even the most diehard readers of The Franklin First with a plethora of entries for the year to come. Happy New Year.
Scott
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Open Letter from JCP&L Concerning Snowstorm
http://www.scribd.com/doc/70772884/JCP-L-Prepares-for-Snowstorm
Looks like we are all learning from the Irene / Lee bashing we took back in August.
Other important local links in times of emergency:
http://www.quakertownfire.com/
http://www.franklin-twp.org/
http://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/oem.htm
======
Haven't been posting much but that will change.
Scott
Looks like we are all learning from the Irene / Lee bashing we took back in August.
Other important local links in times of emergency:
http://www.quakertownfire.com/
http://www.franklin-twp.org/
http://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/oem.htm
======
Haven't been posting much but that will change.
Scott
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
June - July 2011
It has been a very exciting summer serving as your mayor. Our Memorial Day ceremony always puts things into proper perspective about what “sacrifice” is and how sacred our freedom is in our country. Our first annual Community Day was a great success thanks to countless volunteers and everyone who made the event special. In case you missed it, I spent some time in the dunking tank- perhaps I have started a new mayoral tradition? I was honored to be part of our school awards ceremony; I told our children who were moving onto high school that they should be prepared to have their values, bodies, and brains challenged as they grow into young adults, and they should cherish the friends they made in Franklin.
I would like to thank Ron Matthews for serving as our Chief Financial Officer; Ron retired on July 1 and served as our CFO for many years. I wish Ron the best and welcome Diane Laudenbach as our new CFO. Diane has been a certified municipal financial officer since 1994 and has CFO experience in many Hunterdon County municipalities; the Township Committee and I look forward to working with Diane.
Looking back on my first seven months as mayor, I can say that the experience has been very challenging, humbling, and rewarding. The most rewarding aspect of the job is that I have met so many residents who were more than willing to volunteer their expertise to a township issue regardless of its complexities- that says a lot about the folks who live here. I am pleased that many members of the public have attended our Committee meetings and have been vocal about their opinions and beliefs. I also want to make it known that our municipal employees have been very patient and professional during our budget hearings. As a part-time mayor, I rely on our employees for many things- they are the faces you see at the municipal building, they are the ones who plow our roads, and protect our residents. Our employees deserve all of our thanks and support- I receive many phone calls and emails from residents saying what a great job our employees do and that makes me proud as well.
There is only so much I can communicate in our newsletter but the conversation shouldn’t stop here- attend our Committee meetings, email me, or call me with your ideas and comments- I would love to hear from you. Have a safe summer.
I would like to thank Ron Matthews for serving as our Chief Financial Officer; Ron retired on July 1 and served as our CFO for many years. I wish Ron the best and welcome Diane Laudenbach as our new CFO. Diane has been a certified municipal financial officer since 1994 and has CFO experience in many Hunterdon County municipalities; the Township Committee and I look forward to working with Diane.
Looking back on my first seven months as mayor, I can say that the experience has been very challenging, humbling, and rewarding. The most rewarding aspect of the job is that I have met so many residents who were more than willing to volunteer their expertise to a township issue regardless of its complexities- that says a lot about the folks who live here. I am pleased that many members of the public have attended our Committee meetings and have been vocal about their opinions and beliefs. I also want to make it known that our municipal employees have been very patient and professional during our budget hearings. As a part-time mayor, I rely on our employees for many things- they are the faces you see at the municipal building, they are the ones who plow our roads, and protect our residents. Our employees deserve all of our thanks and support- I receive many phone calls and emails from residents saying what a great job our employees do and that makes me proud as well.
There is only so much I can communicate in our newsletter but the conversation shouldn’t stop here- attend our Committee meetings, email me, or call me with your ideas and comments- I would love to hear from you. Have a safe summer.
Monday, May 30, 2011
May, 2011
May 9: Township Committee Special Budget Work Session
This meeting was a very unique meeting of the Township Committee. We needed the work session in order to introduce the budget amendment at the May 12 meeting. Either the Finance Subcommittee could have met, formed the amendments and brought them to the full Committee for review, or the Committee could meet and form the amendments in a public venue and discuss the budget at the work session. I chose to have the budget work session so the public can have a chance to observe and comment on the way we amended the budget. Every line item was announced and either approved as presented or amended; our accountant and Finance Director were on hand to offer us advice and to record our decisions. Ron Matthews and Bill Colantano deserve recognition for working with us and for turning around the changes we made into the amended budget in short time.
May 11: Land Use Board
As Mayor, I am a voting member of the Land Use Board, and on May 11 the Board began public hearings on the Garden State Growers property. The hearing addressed storm water management issues and site specific agricultural practices. The public was given ample time prior to and during the Applicant’s testimony to comment and view the plans. After several hours of testimony and public comment, the hearing was carried to June 8, 2011. For those who wish to view the plans or hydraulic studies, contact our Township Clerk.
May 12: Township Committee Regular Meeting
We accepted resignations effective June 30 from our Director of Finance Ron Matthews, his assistant Joan Tigar, and our Chief Municipal Finance Officer Michael Balogh. We are actively advertising for a replacement CFO and are willing to go the shared services route.
We introduced and approved the 2011 Amended Municipal Budget and scheduled the public hearing for May 26. The budget for 2011 is $2,732,362.92.
The Committee agreed to a Memorandum of Agreement between the Township and the Franklin Police Department. The concessions made by our officers helped us bridge the budget gap for 2011. A lot work by both the Committee and the officers resulted in cooperation and communication in a way that allowed such an agreement to transpire. Our police department budget remains a very large ticket item and I look forward to working with the police- and each of our departments for that matter- on working together for ways to decrease expenses and increase revenue, if appropriate.
We approved Resolution 2011-33 establishing employee benefits cost sharing plan. Non-union employees are now paying back 10% of their health insurance cost and 20% for family; these contributions will continue to increase up to 30% for individual health insurance and 100% of family cost by 2015. New employees will be contributing 30% of individual and 100%.
School Budget: In April, voters rejected the proposed tax levy of $4.9 million to support the school’s $5.06 million operating budget by 315 votes to 260. Defeated school budgets go before the Township Committee- we can decrease the budget, approve it as presented, or increase the budget. After the budget was defeated, our school subcommittee met with the school officials and went over their budget line by line. Prior to the school budget vote, I met with school officials and familiarized myself with the budget. Given the amount we cut from the 2010 budget (about $450,000), and this year’s budget reflected a two percent increase ($90,000), the Committee unanimously agreed to approve the budget as presented by the Board of Education. This was not a vote I took lightly: on one hand you respect the majority of voters, and on the other you need to do what is best for the community. Through my communication with residents and reading the comments on nj.com, I have observed and experienced just about the same amount of “thanks” and “anger” from residents for voting the way I did. Of our approximate 2,200 registered voters, I am bit disappointed that only 570 (26%) voted on the school budget- we’re talking about two thirds of your property tax bill, folks. Gov. Christie wants to move the school board elections to the November general elections- now that is something I bet we can all agree on. The Hunterdon Democrat covered our Committee’s decision here:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/franklin_twp_committee_votes_t.html
May 21: Ribbon Cutting at the Silver Oak Learning Center
My son Ryan and I attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Silver Oak Learning Center (formerly KnowledgePoints) located at 62 Walmart Plaza (second level). President and owner Jim Helriegel gave Ryan and me a tour of the facility. Please visit Jim and I am sure he will be more than happy to show you how he and his staff teach children to be lifelong learners. http://www.silveroaklearningcenters.com/. Jim can be reached at jim.helriegel@silveroaklc.com
May 23: Environmental Commission meeting
When I first moved into town in 2002 I joined the Environmental Commission. While I am not a member of the Environmental Commission anymore, I do enjoy attending their meetings and working with the members. We have some volunteers ready to fill the membership vacancies. The Commission discussed the status of the solar ordinance, and tree ordinance. The Commission is looking into applying to become a sustainable municipality. Sustainable New Jersey is a certification program for municipalities in New Jersey that want to go green, save money, and take steps to sustain their quality of life over the long term ( http://www.sustainablejersey.com ). Participating in the program costs the municipality nothing and it is good for the environment. The Commission will be providing the Committee with some information on the program and will be requesting a resolution from us supporting the program. I look forward to receiving the information and deliberating the subject with the rest of the Committee.
May 24: My Visit to the Franklin Township Elementary School
Since becoming Mayor in January I made it a point to visit our students once a month- one grade each month. This month I visited our 4th and 5th grade classes. Unlike the earlier grades, I just can’t get away with reading some stories and answering a few questions. Fourth and fifth graders are much more of a challenge and it demonstrated to me just how much a child learns and progresses in the first few years of their lives. I am looking forward to participating in the school awards ceremony in June.
May 25: Land Use Board Work Session
Our work session consisted of discussing a farmland preservation plan and farmland master plan element. We also discussed the basis for our current zoning, the status of the solar ordinance, and reviewing the need for a long range strategic township plan.
May 26: Township Committee Work Session Meeting
The Committee unanimously adopted resolution 2011-43 approving the 2011 amended municipal budget. Over the last 4 months the Committee has diligently reviewed the budget by line item, and every consideration has been given to keep the tax impact at minimal level. Given current economic conditions and with state aid remaining flat, the Committee explored partnering with neighboring municipalities for police services, building department services, and municipal court services. Even though we are allowed to raise the appropriation by two percent, there will be no municipal tax increase. The State of New Jersey controls the increases in insurance and pension cost, which was the biggest jump in our budget. Non-union employees are now paying back 10% of their health insurance cost and 20% for family; these contributions will continue to increase up to 30% for individual health insurance and 100% of family cost by 2015. New employees will be contributing 30% of individual and 100% of family cost from the get go. Every municipality in this State has a tough challenge ahead of them. We are proud of the fact that we are not cutting any services to the Township residents. The Hunterdon Democrat covered our budget vote in this article:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/franklin_twp_sets_public_heari.html
In an effort to reduce costs, the Committee is considering eliminating the position of Public Safety Director. Many supporters of our Public Safety Director came to this meeting to express their support and to tell us of his contributions to the community. As I told residents that night, you are never, ever wasting your time participating in the democratic process- and what appeared to be a “done deal” by those present, turned into a reprieve (approved by the Committee 4-1) giving the Committee two weeks to focus on the responsibilities of Public Safety Director, and to revisit some fiscal negotiations with our employee that were not clear when first concluded by members of the Committee. The Hunterdon Democrat covered this topic in this article:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/franklin_township_officials_ap.html
We approved ordinance 2011-05 which amended our construction fees. The Township had not revised construction fees in several years and some categories were much lower than our neighboring municipalities and the state minimum requirements. While it is never a joyous occasion to increase user fees, it was necessary to do so.
May 30: Memorial Day Service
While I did not serve in our nation’s military, my father served with the Coast Guard in Viet Nam, my grandfather with the Navy Seabees in World War II, and my great-grandfather with the Army in World War I.
Our service honored five township residents who died fighting during World War II: Orrin Boice, Fred Dissler, Andrew Hodulik, Robert Leusenring and Porter Little.
Elementary School essay winners Anna Piparo read aloud her essay on pioneer aviator Jacqueline Cochran ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacqueline_Cochran ), and Frank Jannuzzi read his essay on Deborah Sampson ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson )who impersonated a man and served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.
Following the essays, Operation Desert Shield / Desert Storm Persian Gulf War veteran Candace Padover spoke about her experiences growing up in a military family and serving our country during a time of war.
After the ceremony I took a few minutes to view the monument dedicated to our five township residents who gave themselves for our country. I drive by this monument nearly every day, and on my school visits I’ve stopped by to read the monument, but today was special; I would love to know who these men were but the page of history is quickly turning on those still alive to remember. The Hunterdon Democrat covered the Service and the article can be viewed here: http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/at_franklin_township_school_re.html
This meeting was a very unique meeting of the Township Committee. We needed the work session in order to introduce the budget amendment at the May 12 meeting. Either the Finance Subcommittee could have met, formed the amendments and brought them to the full Committee for review, or the Committee could meet and form the amendments in a public venue and discuss the budget at the work session. I chose to have the budget work session so the public can have a chance to observe and comment on the way we amended the budget. Every line item was announced and either approved as presented or amended; our accountant and Finance Director were on hand to offer us advice and to record our decisions. Ron Matthews and Bill Colantano deserve recognition for working with us and for turning around the changes we made into the amended budget in short time.
May 11: Land Use Board
As Mayor, I am a voting member of the Land Use Board, and on May 11 the Board began public hearings on the Garden State Growers property. The hearing addressed storm water management issues and site specific agricultural practices. The public was given ample time prior to and during the Applicant’s testimony to comment and view the plans. After several hours of testimony and public comment, the hearing was carried to June 8, 2011. For those who wish to view the plans or hydraulic studies, contact our Township Clerk.
May 12: Township Committee Regular Meeting
We accepted resignations effective June 30 from our Director of Finance Ron Matthews, his assistant Joan Tigar, and our Chief Municipal Finance Officer Michael Balogh. We are actively advertising for a replacement CFO and are willing to go the shared services route.
We introduced and approved the 2011 Amended Municipal Budget and scheduled the public hearing for May 26. The budget for 2011 is $2,732,362.92.
The Committee agreed to a Memorandum of Agreement between the Township and the Franklin Police Department. The concessions made by our officers helped us bridge the budget gap for 2011. A lot work by both the Committee and the officers resulted in cooperation and communication in a way that allowed such an agreement to transpire. Our police department budget remains a very large ticket item and I look forward to working with the police- and each of our departments for that matter- on working together for ways to decrease expenses and increase revenue, if appropriate.
We approved Resolution 2011-33 establishing employee benefits cost sharing plan. Non-union employees are now paying back 10% of their health insurance cost and 20% for family; these contributions will continue to increase up to 30% for individual health insurance and 100% of family cost by 2015. New employees will be contributing 30% of individual and 100%.
School Budget: In April, voters rejected the proposed tax levy of $4.9 million to support the school’s $5.06 million operating budget by 315 votes to 260. Defeated school budgets go before the Township Committee- we can decrease the budget, approve it as presented, or increase the budget. After the budget was defeated, our school subcommittee met with the school officials and went over their budget line by line. Prior to the school budget vote, I met with school officials and familiarized myself with the budget. Given the amount we cut from the 2010 budget (about $450,000), and this year’s budget reflected a two percent increase ($90,000), the Committee unanimously agreed to approve the budget as presented by the Board of Education. This was not a vote I took lightly: on one hand you respect the majority of voters, and on the other you need to do what is best for the community. Through my communication with residents and reading the comments on nj.com, I have observed and experienced just about the same amount of “thanks” and “anger” from residents for voting the way I did. Of our approximate 2,200 registered voters, I am bit disappointed that only 570 (26%) voted on the school budget- we’re talking about two thirds of your property tax bill, folks. Gov. Christie wants to move the school board elections to the November general elections- now that is something I bet we can all agree on. The Hunterdon Democrat covered our Committee’s decision here:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/franklin_twp_committee_votes_t.html
May 21: Ribbon Cutting at the Silver Oak Learning Center
My son Ryan and I attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Silver Oak Learning Center (formerly KnowledgePoints) located at 62 Walmart Plaza (second level). President and owner Jim Helriegel gave Ryan and me a tour of the facility. Please visit Jim and I am sure he will be more than happy to show you how he and his staff teach children to be lifelong learners. http://www.silveroaklearningcenters.com/. Jim can be reached at jim.helriegel@silveroaklc.com
May 23: Environmental Commission meeting
When I first moved into town in 2002 I joined the Environmental Commission. While I am not a member of the Environmental Commission anymore, I do enjoy attending their meetings and working with the members. We have some volunteers ready to fill the membership vacancies. The Commission discussed the status of the solar ordinance, and tree ordinance. The Commission is looking into applying to become a sustainable municipality. Sustainable New Jersey is a certification program for municipalities in New Jersey that want to go green, save money, and take steps to sustain their quality of life over the long term ( http://www.sustainablejersey.com ). Participating in the program costs the municipality nothing and it is good for the environment. The Commission will be providing the Committee with some information on the program and will be requesting a resolution from us supporting the program. I look forward to receiving the information and deliberating the subject with the rest of the Committee.
May 24: My Visit to the Franklin Township Elementary School
Since becoming Mayor in January I made it a point to visit our students once a month- one grade each month. This month I visited our 4th and 5th grade classes. Unlike the earlier grades, I just can’t get away with reading some stories and answering a few questions. Fourth and fifth graders are much more of a challenge and it demonstrated to me just how much a child learns and progresses in the first few years of their lives. I am looking forward to participating in the school awards ceremony in June.
May 25: Land Use Board Work Session
Our work session consisted of discussing a farmland preservation plan and farmland master plan element. We also discussed the basis for our current zoning, the status of the solar ordinance, and reviewing the need for a long range strategic township plan.
May 26: Township Committee Work Session Meeting
The Committee unanimously adopted resolution 2011-43 approving the 2011 amended municipal budget. Over the last 4 months the Committee has diligently reviewed the budget by line item, and every consideration has been given to keep the tax impact at minimal level. Given current economic conditions and with state aid remaining flat, the Committee explored partnering with neighboring municipalities for police services, building department services, and municipal court services. Even though we are allowed to raise the appropriation by two percent, there will be no municipal tax increase. The State of New Jersey controls the increases in insurance and pension cost, which was the biggest jump in our budget. Non-union employees are now paying back 10% of their health insurance cost and 20% for family; these contributions will continue to increase up to 30% for individual health insurance and 100% of family cost by 2015. New employees will be contributing 30% of individual and 100% of family cost from the get go. Every municipality in this State has a tough challenge ahead of them. We are proud of the fact that we are not cutting any services to the Township residents. The Hunterdon Democrat covered our budget vote in this article:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/franklin_twp_sets_public_heari.html
In an effort to reduce costs, the Committee is considering eliminating the position of Public Safety Director. Many supporters of our Public Safety Director came to this meeting to express their support and to tell us of his contributions to the community. As I told residents that night, you are never, ever wasting your time participating in the democratic process- and what appeared to be a “done deal” by those present, turned into a reprieve (approved by the Committee 4-1) giving the Committee two weeks to focus on the responsibilities of Public Safety Director, and to revisit some fiscal negotiations with our employee that were not clear when first concluded by members of the Committee. The Hunterdon Democrat covered this topic in this article:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/franklin_township_officials_ap.html
We approved ordinance 2011-05 which amended our construction fees. The Township had not revised construction fees in several years and some categories were much lower than our neighboring municipalities and the state minimum requirements. While it is never a joyous occasion to increase user fees, it was necessary to do so.
May 30: Memorial Day Service
While I did not serve in our nation’s military, my father served with the Coast Guard in Viet Nam, my grandfather with the Navy Seabees in World War II, and my great-grandfather with the Army in World War I.
Our service honored five township residents who died fighting during World War II: Orrin Boice, Fred Dissler, Andrew Hodulik, Robert Leusenring and Porter Little.
Elementary School essay winners Anna Piparo read aloud her essay on pioneer aviator Jacqueline Cochran ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacqueline_Cochran ), and Frank Jannuzzi read his essay on Deborah Sampson ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson )who impersonated a man and served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.
Following the essays, Operation Desert Shield / Desert Storm Persian Gulf War veteran Candace Padover spoke about her experiences growing up in a military family and serving our country during a time of war.
After the ceremony I took a few minutes to view the monument dedicated to our five township residents who gave themselves for our country. I drive by this monument nearly every day, and on my school visits I’ve stopped by to read the monument, but today was special; I would love to know who these men were but the page of history is quickly turning on those still alive to remember. The Hunterdon Democrat covered the Service and the article can be viewed here: http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2011/05/at_franklin_township_school_re.html
Sunday, May 1, 2011
March & April 2011
A good friend of mine likes to say "time flies like an arrow, and fruit flies like a banana".
Right.
I can't speak for the fruit flies but I can say that March and April zoomed by faster than green grass through a goose. The last two months the Township Committee, and our employees have been working on the 2011 municipal budget. We introduced the budget on March 23 and scheduled the public hearing for April 28. However, we are amending the budget to the point where it will not resemble the original budget- so we re-introduce it on May 12, and have a public hearing on May 24. Apologies to our constituents who have been very patient with us during this process... measure twice, cut once. I look forward to seeing those who have attended each of our budget meetings; their comments have been a valuable asset to me.
The future of our police department has been the focus of this year's budget. The Committee requested proposals from three adjoining municipalities to see how they would provide Franklin with the same police coverage we enjoy today. After reviewing our options, the Committee chose to retain our police department for this budget year. The devil is in the details and I know our Finance Subcommittee, our CFO, and accountant will be busy the next two weeks working out the numbers for public consumption.
==
In other news, our school budget was defeated by the voters this week and they voted George Burdick, Kenneth Weiss, and Christine Creilly to the Board of Education. Congratulations to George, Ken, and Christine and thank you for your dedication to our school. With regards to the school budget, I have asked our school subcommittee (Steve Tarshis and Vigdis Austad) to meet with school representatives and go over the budget from top left to bottom right. The school subcommittee will provide the full Committee with a recommendation and we will decide whether or not to support that recommendation. As always, input from the public is wanted and appreciated. By state law we need to have a school budget in place by May 19 so stay tuned.
==
Community Day is June 4 and boy we could use one! Try to stop by the firehouse between 4 and 9 pm... get to know your fellow residents, and have some fun.
Right.
I can't speak for the fruit flies but I can say that March and April zoomed by faster than green grass through a goose. The last two months the Township Committee, and our employees have been working on the 2011 municipal budget. We introduced the budget on March 23 and scheduled the public hearing for April 28. However, we are amending the budget to the point where it will not resemble the original budget- so we re-introduce it on May 12, and have a public hearing on May 24. Apologies to our constituents who have been very patient with us during this process... measure twice, cut once. I look forward to seeing those who have attended each of our budget meetings; their comments have been a valuable asset to me.
The future of our police department has been the focus of this year's budget. The Committee requested proposals from three adjoining municipalities to see how they would provide Franklin with the same police coverage we enjoy today. After reviewing our options, the Committee chose to retain our police department for this budget year. The devil is in the details and I know our Finance Subcommittee, our CFO, and accountant will be busy the next two weeks working out the numbers for public consumption.
==
In other news, our school budget was defeated by the voters this week and they voted George Burdick, Kenneth Weiss, and Christine Creilly to the Board of Education. Congratulations to George, Ken, and Christine and thank you for your dedication to our school. With regards to the school budget, I have asked our school subcommittee (Steve Tarshis and Vigdis Austad) to meet with school representatives and go over the budget from top left to bottom right. The school subcommittee will provide the full Committee with a recommendation and we will decide whether or not to support that recommendation. As always, input from the public is wanted and appreciated. By state law we need to have a school budget in place by May 19 so stay tuned.
==
Community Day is June 4 and boy we could use one! Try to stop by the firehouse between 4 and 9 pm... get to know your fellow residents, and have some fun.
Monday, March 7, 2011
February 1 – February 28, 2011
Before I rattle down with the list of what I have been up to, I’d like to grab your attention for a quick minute- big picture stuff here... February has been extremely busy for all of us on the Committee and our support staff. The preparation of our 2011 municipal budget has taken precedence, but we are also holding hearings on several ordinances: recycling, outdoor lighting, and solar energy. The outdoor lighting ordinance public hearing is being held March 10, the recycling ordinance is being introduced on March 10, and the first reading of the solar ordinance is April 14, 2011.
Besides the recycling ordinance which is county-mandated, the first and foremost goal of the lighting and solar ordinances is to protect your property values and your quality of life as residents of Franklin. We are not out to ban solar energy or outdoor lighting, but it is our obligation as elected officials to decide whether these ordinances can protect and serve the public, or are they just simply “over-regulation”.
Without anymore fanfare, here is what I have been up to this cold, snowy winter:
1. On February 3, DPW Supervisor Alan Dilley and I met with representatives from the NJ Water Supply Authority (NJWSA) to discuss ways to improve drainage flow from roadways to the rivers and streams within Franklin Township. The NJWSA obtained grant funding to perform some drainage ditch repair / enhancement work and Franklin Township may be the recipient of such efforts.
2. On February 7, I met with the Open Space Advisory Committee, welcomed several new members, reviewed our open space inventory, and discussed budgetary concerns. We discussed possible future open space acquisitions, and the status of the township’s open space / farmland preservation fund accounts.
3. On February 8, acting as the Public Works Subcommittee, Committeewoman Sue Campbell and I met with DPW Director Alan Dilley to discuss operations and budget matters.
4. February 10 was our township committee meeting, in the name of brevity I will refrain this time from revealing the meeting’s highlights- read the minutes, or wait for the movie!
5. On February 16, I met with representatives from the Hunterdon County Planning Board- Agricultural Development Board. These monthly meetings are meant to give local officials a chance to meet face to face with county planning representatives. Our topics of discussion range from farmland and open space preservation, to model ordinances, and how other towns accomplish their planning and preservation goals. These meetings are an investment in the township’s future and no town should overlook this opportunity.
6. On February 17, the Committee held a special meeting about the municipal budget. There were about 40 people in attendance, there was a PowerPoint presentation and I believe most who walked out of that meeting had a greater understanding of the task that is before us. This meeting also provided residents with valuable information- actual dollar figures that keeps this town operating.
7. On February 22, I visited Mrs. Prassl’s second grade class at Franklin Township School. I told them what it is like to be the Mayor, my responsibilities, and I read a story about George Washington. You can see pictures from this event at:
http://www.ftschool.org:16080/Prassl2P/Second_to_None/Mayor_Bauman_Visits.html
8. February 24 was our first real Committee work session we have had in a long time- a loosely based agenda with no formal actions, just discussions, ideas, and input from the public. Sounds like your idea of fun? Stop by the municipal building on the 4th Thursdays of each month, 7:30 PM and indulge yourself!
9. On February 26 I attended a Mayor’s Conference in West Windsor that focused on running meetings, budgets, negotiations, ethics, and shared services. There were about 150 mayors and council presidents in attendance, including a hefty smattering of Hunterdon County representatives! I learned a good deal from the workshop.
10. On February 28, acting as the Construction / Planning / Zoning Subcommittee, Committeeman Steve Tarshis and I met with Construction Official Mark Fornaciari to discuss operations and budget matters.
Besides the recycling ordinance which is county-mandated, the first and foremost goal of the lighting and solar ordinances is to protect your property values and your quality of life as residents of Franklin. We are not out to ban solar energy or outdoor lighting, but it is our obligation as elected officials to decide whether these ordinances can protect and serve the public, or are they just simply “over-regulation”.
Without anymore fanfare, here is what I have been up to this cold, snowy winter:
1. On February 3, DPW Supervisor Alan Dilley and I met with representatives from the NJ Water Supply Authority (NJWSA) to discuss ways to improve drainage flow from roadways to the rivers and streams within Franklin Township. The NJWSA obtained grant funding to perform some drainage ditch repair / enhancement work and Franklin Township may be the recipient of such efforts.
2. On February 7, I met with the Open Space Advisory Committee, welcomed several new members, reviewed our open space inventory, and discussed budgetary concerns. We discussed possible future open space acquisitions, and the status of the township’s open space / farmland preservation fund accounts.
3. On February 8, acting as the Public Works Subcommittee, Committeewoman Sue Campbell and I met with DPW Director Alan Dilley to discuss operations and budget matters.
4. February 10 was our township committee meeting, in the name of brevity I will refrain this time from revealing the meeting’s highlights- read the minutes, or wait for the movie!
5. On February 16, I met with representatives from the Hunterdon County Planning Board- Agricultural Development Board. These monthly meetings are meant to give local officials a chance to meet face to face with county planning representatives. Our topics of discussion range from farmland and open space preservation, to model ordinances, and how other towns accomplish their planning and preservation goals. These meetings are an investment in the township’s future and no town should overlook this opportunity.
6. On February 17, the Committee held a special meeting about the municipal budget. There were about 40 people in attendance, there was a PowerPoint presentation and I believe most who walked out of that meeting had a greater understanding of the task that is before us. This meeting also provided residents with valuable information- actual dollar figures that keeps this town operating.
7. On February 22, I visited Mrs. Prassl’s second grade class at Franklin Township School. I told them what it is like to be the Mayor, my responsibilities, and I read a story about George Washington. You can see pictures from this event at:
http://www.ftschool.org:16080/Prassl2P/Second_to_None/Mayor_Bauman_Visits.html
8. February 24 was our first real Committee work session we have had in a long time- a loosely based agenda with no formal actions, just discussions, ideas, and input from the public. Sounds like your idea of fun? Stop by the municipal building on the 4th Thursdays of each month, 7:30 PM and indulge yourself!
9. On February 26 I attended a Mayor’s Conference in West Windsor that focused on running meetings, budgets, negotiations, ethics, and shared services. There were about 150 mayors and council presidents in attendance, including a hefty smattering of Hunterdon County representatives! I learned a good deal from the workshop.
10. On February 28, acting as the Construction / Planning / Zoning Subcommittee, Committeeman Steve Tarshis and I met with Construction Official Mark Fornaciari to discuss operations and budget matters.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
January 16 - January 31, 2011
I have mayoral reins in my firm grasp for a month now and what a thrill! There is no honeymoon period when you are in elected office and given the state of affairs I am more than happy to get to work.
The Committee is off to a great start working together and tackling issues in a timely matter. I am very impressed with the initiatives each committee person has brought to the table. There is a lot to be done but it all starts with a budget; the Finance Subcommittee just met and is beginning to shape up our 2011 municipal budget. The statutory date for budget introduction in March 11; I am hoping we can introduce ours, adoption by April 22. Our budget deadlines are governed by the State and can be viewed here:
http://www.njslom.org/letters/2011-14-LFN.html
Hats off to our public works employees, police officers, firefighter and EMS volunteers- the last few weeks of weather haven’t been exactly ideal, but our roadways are clean and safe allowing first responders to do their jobs when help is needed.
I have been able to talk to many residents since becoming Mayor; I have gained much insight on what residents expect from their local government- and what they don’t expect! I enjoy listening and talking with folks from around town and anyone that knows me can tell you that I have an open door policy; and I do make house calls!
=====
Wednesday, January 19: Meeting with Hunterdon Co. Agricultural Development Board Staff
I learned that we have $135,859 in county open space funds that we need to spend; our last application for open space funds was submitted in 2006. It’s too bad that we didn’t utilize the fund between 2007 and 2010, but the optimist part of me is thankful that we now have $135,859 we can use to help finance past open space purchases.
=====
Thursday, January 27: Committee Meeting, Highlights Include:
We approved payment of our bills between Jan 13 and Jan 27. Big ticket items included: Franklin Township Board of Education ($1,314,715), North Hunterdon Voorhees School District ($529,748), 1/14 payroll ($41,669), first installment of our insurance coverage ($31,814), our November and January payment to the North Hunterdon Municipal Court ($19,409), and legal counsel ($6,554). The check register is available for review in the Clerk’s Office.
The State allows municipalities to increase the 2011 municipal budget from 2.5% to 3.5% over the 2010 Final Appropriations by ordinance, the Committee discussed this option but it appeared that no one was interested in raising the cap.
Thanks to the New Jersey Clean Energy program, our municipal building and public works garage received free energy audits and will be retrofitted with energy saving fixtures (lights , boilers, etc) for free as well. The Committee authorized me to sign participation agreements to make these retrofits possible. Copies of the scope of work and project summaries can be viewed using the following links:
Public Works Building:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48009346/Direct-Install-DPW-Building-Project-Summary
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48009386/Direct-Install-DPW-Building-Scope-of-Work
Municipal Building:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48009398/Direct-Install-Municipal-Building-Project-Summary
http://www.scribd.com/Direct-Install-Municipal-Building-Scope-of-Work/d/48009407
For more information on the Clean Energy Program, Direct Install, click this link:
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/di
The Committee authorized me to sign the 2011 contract between the Township and Anthony Koester. Tony has done a great job as our attorney in 2010 and I am honored to welcome him back for 2011.
The Committee authorized me to sign an animal control contract with St. Hubert’s to the tune of about $9,000.
I appointed Scott Hender and John Peterson to the Agricultural Advisory Committee.
======
Saturday, January 29: Attended a Seminar
Board of Education President Chris Piparo and I car pooled to Trenton on Saturday morning to attend a seminar sponsored by the New Jersey League of Municipalities and New Jersey School Boards Association. The seminar addressed ways school districts and municipalities can collaborate and meet the 2% property tax levy cap. As I’ve stated in previous posts, I am aware of the divisiveness between those who support our school district, and those who do not. I want 2011 to be the year that witnesses our governing body and the school district working and communicating together. We may have disagreements but that is natural, but the “us versus them” mentality when it comes to our school needs to stop. By Mr. Piparo and me openly working together it is my hope that others will take note and consider finding ways to help support our efforts.
While there may be some disagreement on the fiscal solutions to achieve a successful school curriculum and learning environment, I believe that a good school system impacts our property values- for good and bad. Given the property tax levy cap, we cannot continue to overlook ways to work together in order to save money, share services, and reduce spending.
====
Monday, January 31: Environmental Commission
Diane Burgess was appointed Chair (mayoral appointment) and the Commission members voted Bill Wild as Vice Chairman- congratulations Bill! The Commission discussed the recycling ordinance that is before the Committee as well as the solar energy ordinance. A good amount of discussion was focused on applying for an ANJEC grant for a township-wide inventory of conservation easements. I am looking forward to working with the Environmental Commission in 2011 on their projects- may it be well water testing, applying for grants, reviewing ordinances, or a myriad of other tasks they perform.
The Committee is off to a great start working together and tackling issues in a timely matter. I am very impressed with the initiatives each committee person has brought to the table. There is a lot to be done but it all starts with a budget; the Finance Subcommittee just met and is beginning to shape up our 2011 municipal budget. The statutory date for budget introduction in March 11; I am hoping we can introduce ours, adoption by April 22. Our budget deadlines are governed by the State and can be viewed here:
http://www.njslom.org/letters/2011-14-LFN.html
Hats off to our public works employees, police officers, firefighter and EMS volunteers- the last few weeks of weather haven’t been exactly ideal, but our roadways are clean and safe allowing first responders to do their jobs when help is needed.
I have been able to talk to many residents since becoming Mayor; I have gained much insight on what residents expect from their local government- and what they don’t expect! I enjoy listening and talking with folks from around town and anyone that knows me can tell you that I have an open door policy; and I do make house calls!
=====
Wednesday, January 19: Meeting with Hunterdon Co. Agricultural Development Board Staff
I learned that we have $135,859 in county open space funds that we need to spend; our last application for open space funds was submitted in 2006. It’s too bad that we didn’t utilize the fund between 2007 and 2010, but the optimist part of me is thankful that we now have $135,859 we can use to help finance past open space purchases.
=====
Thursday, January 27: Committee Meeting, Highlights Include:
We approved payment of our bills between Jan 13 and Jan 27. Big ticket items included: Franklin Township Board of Education ($1,314,715), North Hunterdon Voorhees School District ($529,748), 1/14 payroll ($41,669), first installment of our insurance coverage ($31,814), our November and January payment to the North Hunterdon Municipal Court ($19,409), and legal counsel ($6,554). The check register is available for review in the Clerk’s Office.
The State allows municipalities to increase the 2011 municipal budget from 2.5% to 3.5% over the 2010 Final Appropriations by ordinance, the Committee discussed this option but it appeared that no one was interested in raising the cap.
Thanks to the New Jersey Clean Energy program, our municipal building and public works garage received free energy audits and will be retrofitted with energy saving fixtures (lights , boilers, etc) for free as well. The Committee authorized me to sign participation agreements to make these retrofits possible. Copies of the scope of work and project summaries can be viewed using the following links:
Public Works Building:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48009346/Direct-Install-DPW-Building-Project-Summary
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48009386/Direct-Install-DPW-Building-Scope-of-Work
Municipal Building:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48009398/Direct-Install-Municipal-Building-Project-Summary
http://www.scribd.com/Direct-Install-Municipal-Building-Scope-of-Work/d/48009407
For more information on the Clean Energy Program, Direct Install, click this link:
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/di
The Committee authorized me to sign the 2011 contract between the Township and Anthony Koester. Tony has done a great job as our attorney in 2010 and I am honored to welcome him back for 2011.
The Committee authorized me to sign an animal control contract with St. Hubert’s to the tune of about $9,000.
I appointed Scott Hender and John Peterson to the Agricultural Advisory Committee.
======
Saturday, January 29: Attended a Seminar
Board of Education President Chris Piparo and I car pooled to Trenton on Saturday morning to attend a seminar sponsored by the New Jersey League of Municipalities and New Jersey School Boards Association. The seminar addressed ways school districts and municipalities can collaborate and meet the 2% property tax levy cap. As I’ve stated in previous posts, I am aware of the divisiveness between those who support our school district, and those who do not. I want 2011 to be the year that witnesses our governing body and the school district working and communicating together. We may have disagreements but that is natural, but the “us versus them” mentality when it comes to our school needs to stop. By Mr. Piparo and me openly working together it is my hope that others will take note and consider finding ways to help support our efforts.
While there may be some disagreement on the fiscal solutions to achieve a successful school curriculum and learning environment, I believe that a good school system impacts our property values- for good and bad. Given the property tax levy cap, we cannot continue to overlook ways to work together in order to save money, share services, and reduce spending.
====
Monday, January 31: Environmental Commission
Diane Burgess was appointed Chair (mayoral appointment) and the Commission members voted Bill Wild as Vice Chairman- congratulations Bill! The Commission discussed the recycling ordinance that is before the Committee as well as the solar energy ordinance. A good amount of discussion was focused on applying for an ANJEC grant for a township-wide inventory of conservation easements. I am looking forward to working with the Environmental Commission in 2011 on their projects- may it be well water testing, applying for grants, reviewing ordinances, or a myriad of other tasks they perform.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
January 9 - January 15, 2011
My first full week in the mayoral saddle. Feels good; I like this job.
Tuesday, January 11: Met with Municipal Employees
For those who do not know, Tuesday night is open house at the municipal building. Want to meet with our Tax Assessor, Zoning Officer, or Construction Official? The municipal building is open from 7:00 PM until 9:00 PM for the public. I take advantage of the time to visit our municipal employees, hear what they have to say, and get a pulse of how things are around town. Tuesday night was the night of our most recent snowstorm, so it was good timing to drive to our Public Works Garage on Locust Grove Road. I met up with our Public Works employees just as they were preparing their trucks for plowing. Alan and the guys have it down to a science; I’ll bet I could take the family to Disney World during a blizzard and know for certain that our DPW has the situation under control! Truth be told- I am not a fan of Disney World and I love snow so there’s no chance I would miss out on being in New Jersey during a snow storm.
Wednesday, January 12: Land Use Board Reorganization Meeting
Our Land Use Board met and reorganized; Jim Stryker was elected Chairman, and Ted Blew was elected Vice Chairman. The Board chose Rick Roseberry for their consulting engineer, and Carl Hintz as their consulting planner. After the formalities the Board held a brainstorming session on 2010 goals and objectives. Of the Township Committee, both myself and Vigdis Austad are members of the Land Use Board. I am looking forward to working with Chairman Stryker and the rest of the Board in 2011.
Thursday, January 13: Township Committee Meeting
My first regular meeting as Mayor, and Vigdis and Sue’s first meeting as members of the Committee; unfortunately there was only about 10 or so members of the public on hand for the occasion. Interesting, there were over 100 posts on the nj.com article about Franklin’s reorganization meeting, but only 10 people in attendance to see how we work together. I will continue to challenge our residents to attend our meetings, ask us the difficult questions, and bring to the table ideas on how we can serve them better.
This year on my blog I will still report the activities from our Committee meetings, but I might not provide as much detail as I did in 2010. If something peaks your interest, you can always reach me on this blog, or through the township clerk.
We hired William Colantano, CPA to perform our 2010 audit, and to provide accounting services for 2011.
We passed Resolution 2011-11 appointing Special Police Officers for 2011. We passed Resolution 2011-12 ensuring payment of our patrolmen for 2011 in accordance to our contract agreement. We passed Resolution 2011-13 ensuring payment of our Public Works Department for 2011 in accordance to our contract agreement.
We discussed at length a draft recycling ordinance that all Hunterdon County municipalities are required to adopt. We have additional questions and asked our attorney to contact the County.
We discussed the need for an animal control contract for 2011. We used St. Hubert’s in 2010 but before signing on again, we are doing our due diligence by seeing if there are entities that can provide us the same service for less money; it cost us in the neighborhood of $9,300 in 2010.
By responding to an inquiry sent by Hunterdon County in December, we agreed to tell them that we are interested in what they have to offer in terms of shared web site service and email hosting. We paid $3,800 for our website in 2010.
We hired Rick Roseberry of Maser Consulting, PA for Professional Engineering Services for 2011.
We accepted the resignation letter of now former Fire Subcode Official Frank Ball and we made a temporary appointment until the position is filled permanently.
We approved a salvage yard license for 2011 for Block 41, Lot 1.
We introduced by title only a solar energy ordinance; the first reading of the ordinance will take place on February 24. It is important for us to hear what you have to say about this ordinance. A copy can be found here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/45662473/Solar-Energy-Ordinance-for-Dec-23-Hearing
Those were the highlights of our meeting. As mayor I am going to make sure that the minutes from our meeting are posted on our township website in a timely manner.
Tuesday, January 11: Met with Municipal Employees
For those who do not know, Tuesday night is open house at the municipal building. Want to meet with our Tax Assessor, Zoning Officer, or Construction Official? The municipal building is open from 7:00 PM until 9:00 PM for the public. I take advantage of the time to visit our municipal employees, hear what they have to say, and get a pulse of how things are around town. Tuesday night was the night of our most recent snowstorm, so it was good timing to drive to our Public Works Garage on Locust Grove Road. I met up with our Public Works employees just as they were preparing their trucks for plowing. Alan and the guys have it down to a science; I’ll bet I could take the family to Disney World during a blizzard and know for certain that our DPW has the situation under control! Truth be told- I am not a fan of Disney World and I love snow so there’s no chance I would miss out on being in New Jersey during a snow storm.
Wednesday, January 12: Land Use Board Reorganization Meeting
Our Land Use Board met and reorganized; Jim Stryker was elected Chairman, and Ted Blew was elected Vice Chairman. The Board chose Rick Roseberry for their consulting engineer, and Carl Hintz as their consulting planner. After the formalities the Board held a brainstorming session on 2010 goals and objectives. Of the Township Committee, both myself and Vigdis Austad are members of the Land Use Board. I am looking forward to working with Chairman Stryker and the rest of the Board in 2011.
Thursday, January 13: Township Committee Meeting
My first regular meeting as Mayor, and Vigdis and Sue’s first meeting as members of the Committee; unfortunately there was only about 10 or so members of the public on hand for the occasion. Interesting, there were over 100 posts on the nj.com article about Franklin’s reorganization meeting, but only 10 people in attendance to see how we work together. I will continue to challenge our residents to attend our meetings, ask us the difficult questions, and bring to the table ideas on how we can serve them better.
This year on my blog I will still report the activities from our Committee meetings, but I might not provide as much detail as I did in 2010. If something peaks your interest, you can always reach me on this blog, or through the township clerk.
We hired William Colantano, CPA to perform our 2010 audit, and to provide accounting services for 2011.
We passed Resolution 2011-11 appointing Special Police Officers for 2011. We passed Resolution 2011-12 ensuring payment of our patrolmen for 2011 in accordance to our contract agreement. We passed Resolution 2011-13 ensuring payment of our Public Works Department for 2011 in accordance to our contract agreement.
We discussed at length a draft recycling ordinance that all Hunterdon County municipalities are required to adopt. We have additional questions and asked our attorney to contact the County.
We discussed the need for an animal control contract for 2011. We used St. Hubert’s in 2010 but before signing on again, we are doing our due diligence by seeing if there are entities that can provide us the same service for less money; it cost us in the neighborhood of $9,300 in 2010.
By responding to an inquiry sent by Hunterdon County in December, we agreed to tell them that we are interested in what they have to offer in terms of shared web site service and email hosting. We paid $3,800 for our website in 2010.
We hired Rick Roseberry of Maser Consulting, PA for Professional Engineering Services for 2011.
We accepted the resignation letter of now former Fire Subcode Official Frank Ball and we made a temporary appointment until the position is filled permanently.
We approved a salvage yard license for 2011 for Block 41, Lot 1.
We introduced by title only a solar energy ordinance; the first reading of the ordinance will take place on February 24. It is important for us to hear what you have to say about this ordinance. A copy can be found here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/45662473/Solar-Energy-Ordinance-for-Dec-23-Hearing
Those were the highlights of our meeting. As mayor I am going to make sure that the minutes from our meeting are posted on our township website in a timely manner.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
January 5, 2011: Reorganization Meeting
Tonight we had our reorganization meeting. Committeewomen Vigdis Austad and Susan Campbell were sworn into office and I was sworn in as Mayor for 2011. I am grateful for this opportunity and I thank the Committee for selecting me to be mayor. I am really looking forward to this!
Here is the speech I gave at the conclusion of our meeting:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/46366384/Jan-5-2011-Mayor-s-Message
Here is a list of all the appointments made by the Committee:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/46361921/2011-Appointments-Rev-Jan-5-2011
Look for more timely updates on this blog in 2011. Happy New Year.
Scott
Here is the speech I gave at the conclusion of our meeting:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/46366384/Jan-5-2011-Mayor-s-Message
Here is a list of all the appointments made by the Committee:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/46361921/2011-Appointments-Rev-Jan-5-2011
Look for more timely updates on this blog in 2011. Happy New Year.
Scott
Sunday, January 2, 2011
December 20 – December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 23: Township Committee
Out of respect to the two new committee members, the present committee agreed to carry ordinances 2010-09 (Recycling), 2010-10 (Solar Energy Systems), and 2010-11 (Lighting) to January 13, 2010.
The Recycling ordinance can be viewed in the township clerk’s office.
The Solar Energy Systems ordinance can be viewed here:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45662473/Solar-Energy-Ordinance-for-Dec-23-Hearing
The Lighting ordinance can be viewed here:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45686513/Lighting-Ordinance-Hearing-Dec-23
The Committee agreed to pass Ordinance 2010-12 which as of December 23, 2010 suspended COAH fees to residential structural improvements and expansions.
We received our Tax Collector’s reports for October and November 2010. In October we collected $656,341.64. In November we collected $2,366,145.36
We paid our bills checks dated 12/16 through 12/23. Big ticket items included: $282,241.51 (Transfer of tax levy into our township open space and recreation account), $93,750.00 (4th installment of the fire district tax), and $33,094 (12/17 municipal payroll). The complete check control register is always available for public view at the township clerk’s office. In 2011 I am going to work on getting the check control register posted on the township website.
The Committee approved by a vote of 4-1 a three year agreement (1/1/10 -12/31/12) for the Public Works Department union and for a one year agreement (1/1/10 – 12/31/10) for our non-union DPW supervisor. I was the lone dissenting vote because the agreement contained 3% raises each year. Our DPW does a great job… “however”… given the extremely difficult economic climate we are enduring, our increased costs, decreasing revenue, and my preference for reducing government spending, I could not vote for a contract with such a schedule of increased pay.
We passed resolution 2010-83 which cancelled several capital improvement fund accounts, specifically: $9,587.36 for the purchase of a 4x4 vehicle, $6,445.63 for the purchase and installation of an emergency generator, and $799.90 for the purchase of a sport utility vehicle.
Our CFO Ron Matthews gave us and the public a “snapshot” look at our open space funding mechanisms and suggestions on how we could use those funds to pay down past debt on previous open space purchases. I found the presentation very worthwhile and clear to understand. In the near future I will reproduce Mr. Matthew’s table he wrote on the white board in the municipal building. The bottom line is we receive about $282,000 each year in our open space tax, we have accumulated debt from past open space purchases and we need to initiate a payment plan to reduce this debt. In the short term this payment plan may hamper us from purchasing additional open space, however if the right property should become available there are still ways for us to finance the purchase of that property.
Thursday, December 30, 2010: Township Committee
Our year end meeting was only 15 minutes long and it basically served as a formal way to close the financial books on year 2010. We passed Resolution 2010-84 which transferred a total of $69,350 of funds between appropriations. We also approved payments of $2,598 in bills.
==
On December 9, three Exceptional Duty Awards and one Civilian Service Award were given to four employees of Franklin Township.
Class II Patrolman Joseph Cesare and Patrolman John Oliveira were commended for their action on July 25, 2010. While on duty they made a motor vehicle stop and arrested two individuals for possession with intent to distribute drugs. Further investigation yielded the discovery of $23,000 cash and the subsequent forfeiture of the cash and the Chevrolet Suburban.
Detective Timothy Snyder was commended for his action on June 30, 2010. While on duty Detective Snyder responded to a go-cart crash with two individuals suffering serious injuries after falling off an 80 foot cliff. Detective Snyder waded hip deep across a river in full uniform and rendered first aid and stabilized the victims until Emergency Medical Services arrived.
Marie Wedel was commended for over ten years of service to the Franklin Township Police Department.
All four individuals are exemplary employees of Franklin Township and they have much to be proud of; their commendations are well deserved, congratulations.
=======
As 2010 comes to an end I look back on my first year serving the public as a committeeman. I wouldn’t exchange the last year for anything; I have embraced my responsibilities with enthusiasm, seriousness, and honesty. I have voted my consciousness after gathering all of the facts. I have gotten to know many more people in Franklin and that to me is the best part of my job. 2011 will be full of challenges and I am looking forward to working together with the township committee, our municipal employees, our commissions and boards, and most importantly, our residents on addressing these challenges as they arise.
Out of respect to the two new committee members, the present committee agreed to carry ordinances 2010-09 (Recycling), 2010-10 (Solar Energy Systems), and 2010-11 (Lighting) to January 13, 2010.
The Recycling ordinance can be viewed in the township clerk’s office.
The Solar Energy Systems ordinance can be viewed here:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45662473/Solar-Energy-Ordinance-for-Dec-23-Hearing
The Lighting ordinance can be viewed here:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45686513/Lighting-Ordinance-Hearing-Dec-23
The Committee agreed to pass Ordinance 2010-12 which as of December 23, 2010 suspended COAH fees to residential structural improvements and expansions.
We received our Tax Collector’s reports for October and November 2010. In October we collected $656,341.64. In November we collected $2,366,145.36
We paid our bills checks dated 12/16 through 12/23. Big ticket items included: $282,241.51 (Transfer of tax levy into our township open space and recreation account), $93,750.00 (4th installment of the fire district tax), and $33,094 (12/17 municipal payroll). The complete check control register is always available for public view at the township clerk’s office. In 2011 I am going to work on getting the check control register posted on the township website.
The Committee approved by a vote of 4-1 a three year agreement (1/1/10 -12/31/12) for the Public Works Department union and for a one year agreement (1/1/10 – 12/31/10) for our non-union DPW supervisor. I was the lone dissenting vote because the agreement contained 3% raises each year. Our DPW does a great job… “however”… given the extremely difficult economic climate we are enduring, our increased costs, decreasing revenue, and my preference for reducing government spending, I could not vote for a contract with such a schedule of increased pay.
We passed resolution 2010-83 which cancelled several capital improvement fund accounts, specifically: $9,587.36 for the purchase of a 4x4 vehicle, $6,445.63 for the purchase and installation of an emergency generator, and $799.90 for the purchase of a sport utility vehicle.
Our CFO Ron Matthews gave us and the public a “snapshot” look at our open space funding mechanisms and suggestions on how we could use those funds to pay down past debt on previous open space purchases. I found the presentation very worthwhile and clear to understand. In the near future I will reproduce Mr. Matthew’s table he wrote on the white board in the municipal building. The bottom line is we receive about $282,000 each year in our open space tax, we have accumulated debt from past open space purchases and we need to initiate a payment plan to reduce this debt. In the short term this payment plan may hamper us from purchasing additional open space, however if the right property should become available there are still ways for us to finance the purchase of that property.
Thursday, December 30, 2010: Township Committee
Our year end meeting was only 15 minutes long and it basically served as a formal way to close the financial books on year 2010. We passed Resolution 2010-84 which transferred a total of $69,350 of funds between appropriations. We also approved payments of $2,598 in bills.
==
On December 9, three Exceptional Duty Awards and one Civilian Service Award were given to four employees of Franklin Township.
Class II Patrolman Joseph Cesare and Patrolman John Oliveira were commended for their action on July 25, 2010. While on duty they made a motor vehicle stop and arrested two individuals for possession with intent to distribute drugs. Further investigation yielded the discovery of $23,000 cash and the subsequent forfeiture of the cash and the Chevrolet Suburban.
Detective Timothy Snyder was commended for his action on June 30, 2010. While on duty Detective Snyder responded to a go-cart crash with two individuals suffering serious injuries after falling off an 80 foot cliff. Detective Snyder waded hip deep across a river in full uniform and rendered first aid and stabilized the victims until Emergency Medical Services arrived.
Marie Wedel was commended for over ten years of service to the Franklin Township Police Department.
All four individuals are exemplary employees of Franklin Township and they have much to be proud of; their commendations are well deserved, congratulations.
=======
As 2010 comes to an end I look back on my first year serving the public as a committeeman. I wouldn’t exchange the last year for anything; I have embraced my responsibilities with enthusiasm, seriousness, and honesty. I have voted my consciousness after gathering all of the facts. I have gotten to know many more people in Franklin and that to me is the best part of my job. 2011 will be full of challenges and I am looking forward to working together with the township committee, our municipal employees, our commissions and boards, and most importantly, our residents on addressing these challenges as they arise.
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