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Fax: (908) 874-0032
serving
Montgomery Township
and Rocky Hill, NJ
Township Road repairs
This past winter has been one of the most challenging in years for our road crews. After record winter snowstorms, and hundreds of man-hours to salt and clear, we are now in the process of doing what it takes to bring township roads back to where they need to be. The freezing and thawing we saw all winter has left us with a lot of potholes and we are aggressively working to patch them temporarily until the weather is warm enough for more permanent repairs. We are also communicating with state and county officials about needed work on State Hwy. 206, Rt. 601, Rt. 518 and other county roads. Below is an update on the current plans for repairs and maintenance:
The following road projects and road repairs are scheduled to occur in 2011. All work is pending final 2011 municipal budget approval.
Roadway Reconstruction Project on Cherry Valley Road:
Montgomery Township will undertake a major reconstruction project this year on Cherry Valley Road, from approximately the Woodsedge neighborhood entrance (Rutgers Lane) to Rt. 206. This project includes drainage, curbing and sidewalk. It is a joint project with Princeton and is partially funded with NJDOT local aid grant money. The project will go out to bid this spring.
Pavement Repair Projects:
Montgomery is undertaking pavement repair projects for 2011 on the following roads: Cherry Hill Road, Cherry Valley Road (the portion not being reconstructed), Hollow Road, Burnt Hill Road, Bridge Point Road, Green Avenue, and additional repairs throughout various housing development roads.
Chip Seal Projects:
Chip seal is a process by which an oil spray and small stone mix is placed and compacted and becomes an asphalt-like surface over time with further compaction from vehicular traffic. Chip-sealing resurfaces a road and is a cost-effective fix that lasts for approximately five years.
Possible chip seal projects for 2011 include: Pin Oak Road, Dead Tree Run Road, Mountainview Road, East Mountain Road, and Staats Farm Road.
Reporting Pot Holes & Maintenance Needs
Department of Public Works crews have been busy taking care of potholes throughout the Township this spring. Residents may call our Pothole hotline # 908-874-8947 to report any maintenance issues on Township maintained public roads.
Rt. 206 is maintained by the New Jersey Department of Transportation. NJDOT oversees the current reconstruction project for the CSX Railroad Bridge overpass. Somerset County is responsible for maintenance of County roads in town, including Dutchtown-Harlingen Rd. (Rt. 604), Belle Mead-Blawenburg Rd aka The Great Rd. (Rt. 601), Georgetown-Franklin Turnpike (Rt. 518), River Rd. (Rt. 533), and Kingston-River Rd. (Rt. 605).
Skillman Village Sale Still Delayed
Despite pre-election promises by the Somerset County Freeholders in an October 2010 announcement to purchase the 256-acre Skillman Village site from Montgomery Township for $14,135,000, the deal hasn’t gone through yet. What’s holding it up?
For one thing, it’s not the money. The County won’t have to go in debt for it. The happy taxpayers have been paying the Freeholders for it all along through the Somerset County Open Space Tax.
The purchase of the property by the Township from the State became a campaign issue during the 2009 Township Committee race in which challengers successfully raised the issue of taxpayers being responsible for paying for what some insisted was a colossal mistake. “Just let the County take it over,” was the battle cry heard far and wide. Subsequently, the Freeholders agreed to purchase the site as, “An important addition to our open space program,” as former Freeholder Director Ciattarelli described it.
The source of the funds is a line item on the County portion of the property tax bill of $0.03 per $100 of assessed property value, earmarked for the purchase of Open Space within the county as part of the Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. Since the assessed value of all Montgomery real estate is $3,726,177,037 as of March 24, 2011, the Township taxpayers have been paying roughly $1.1M per year (some $90 or so per property) into the County Open Space Fund.
Montgomery taxpayers have also been paying the Township for the purchase of the property (which cost $5.95M in 2007) plus the attendant cleanup expenses through municipal taxes. So, in effect they will have been paying twice for the same thing. Current Skillman Village-related debt stands at some $25.50M, according to Finance Director Walter Shepard.
Furthermore, because State Aid to Municipalities is based in part on how much debt the Township carries, clearing the books of old debt may have the paradoxical effect of reducing state aid and could actually result in a higher municipal tax levy to make up the difference.
The delay, according to some, has been because the former County Administrator who had been following the process for years retired, and the new Freeholder Director Bob Zaborowski and the new County Administrator, Michael Amorosa have concerns centered around the cost for knocking down the 19 or 20 buildings still standing, some issues with the new dam at the lake, and the cost of other environmental concerns.
Montgomery Township Administrator Donato Nieman agrees about the dam, which was rebuilt as part of a lake-dredging project by the Township to remediate age-related damage revealed in the wake of Hurricane Floyd. However, says, Mr. Nieman, “We got them to do it for a fixed price.” Consequently, the Weston Group, which performed the environmental cleanup subsequent to the purchase, “Is on the hook for any repairs.”
Both Montgomery Township Mayor Caliguire and Mr. Newman expected to have closed on the sale by the end of 2010. “We had debt payments to make,” said Mr. Newman, “And we could have saved some money.”
But both the new county director and administrator say that the issues with the dam are such that it doesn’t function as designed and want to be sure that Weston indeed fixes it. Also, Administrator Amorosa said that there is a sizeable difference between the estimated building demolition costs sited by the Township and that of estimates secured by the County. He didn’t put a number to it, but indicated that it was as much as twice the Township’s estimate.
Mr. Amorosa said the County and Township had until the end of April to do due diligence, but that date can be extended as necessary. Mr. Amorosa said that he has been meeting weekly with environmental experts, attorneys and administrators from both the County and the Township and that negotiations are ongoing.
No closing date has been set, but Mayor Caliguire said, “I’m hoping we can move forward and take care of this in the next month or so.”
Others closely involved think it will take longer. “I’m looking to get it done in the next couple of months,” Mr. Newman said.
The County and Township have 45 days following the closing date to appoint a committee of six – three from the County, three from the Township – to “develop a mutually satisfactory plan to use, operate” and maintain the property. Mr. Amorosa didn’t know who would be on it at the County level, but thought that it might be similar to the committee overseeing the GSA project in Hillsborough, with two Freeholders and a representative from the Somerset County Parks Dept.
Montgomery Landmarks Commission Announces Preservation Grant Program
The Montgomery Township Landmarks Commission is pleased to announce the sixth year
of its annual Preservation Grant Program. The program provides grant money for
maintenance/restoration of the exterior of structures that are designated local
historic structures or are located in a local historic district in Montgomery
Township. If your home meets these criteria, you are eligible to apply for a
Preservation Grant.
The grant program was initiated because structures of historic value have been lost
due to lack of maintenance, particularly water leaks. This program provides some
assistance in stabilizing "at risk" structures. Examples of eligible projects
include roofing, flashing, gutters, windows, siding, and trim materials. In
addition, the Landmarks Commission believes it is good that some assistance be
provided for homeowners who have agreed to have their homes designated as local
historic sites. The preservation of historic homes is a benefit for the entire
community.
The budget for this program is modest. Given the current fiscal concerns in the
Township, the grants are small and are limited to the costs of materials only (no
labor costs.) Depending on the availability of funds, the grants may cover only a
part of the material costs.
The application deadline this year is August 15, 2011 and all work must be completed
by December 1, 2011. Inquiries and requests for applications can be directed to
landmarks@twp.montgomery.nj.us<mailto:landmarks@twp.montgomery.nj.us> or to
908-359-8211 (ask for the Planning Dept.). Applications may also be downloaded from
the Montgomery Township website at www.montgomery.nj.us.
Township will accept flood-damaged items
Any Montgomery residents with a coupon will be able to drop their flood damaged items at the Township Container Facility, 12 Harlingen Rd., from Tues., 8/30 to Sat. 9/3 during special hours from 7:00 am - 3:30 pm.
Montgomery Database Maps Now On-line
Montgomery map-based public info can now be accessed on-line. “Geoweb Map”, as Montgomery’s system is known, is now available on the internet as a free service to the public.
‘Databased’ info includes property owner and tax assessment info, tax maps, zoning info and ordinances, subdivision plats and as-built plans, polling locations and census statistics. Locations of natural resources, flood insurance maps, sewer service areas, proximity to fire hydrants (for insurance purposes) & USGS quad maps are also searchable.
Montgomery Township Geoweb Map applications are available by visiting the township's website at www.montgomery.nj.us and clicking on Interactive Maps in the left-hand menu in red.
The township is gauging interest in conducting free public training. “We are available to provide an hour long introductory class on the “how to” of map-based info searches,” according to Montgomery’s Senior GIS Specialist Patrick McDonald.
If interested in training classes, please contact Mr. McDonald at (908) 359-8211 ext. 276 or pmcdonald@twp.montgomery.nj.us. It is also suggested that interested persons sign up for Montgomery Twp. e-bulletins at www.montgomery.nj.us. If sufficient public interest is expressed, class details will be sent out via email and posted on the township website.
“GIS technology is making it much easier, faster, and more efficient to manage all of the various types of geographic-related data the Township has to maintain and utilize,” said Robert Marmion, Montgomery CAD/GIS Director. “Most estimates have shown that more than 80% of the information managed by a municipality is of a geographic nature.”
Besides the general public; intended users of these applications include current and potential residents, township professionals, volunteer board members, emergency response personnel, engineers, surveyors, property appraisers, title companies, mortgages companies, realtors, other local, county, state, and federal agencies, and private consultants who need this information.
Montgomery Township began working with Geographic Information System (GIS) technology in1999. The township was the pilot GIS program for all of Somerset County earlier this decade. Grants dramatically reduced the costs of the township developing its GIS technology. Around 2005 the township created the Geospatial Information Technology Department to better serve the township’s spatial (geographic) data needs.
Reduced-Cost Radon Testing Kits Available
Radon exposure is estimated to cause 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually
MONTGOMERY TWP. – The Greater Somerset Public Health Partnership, in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), is recognizing January as Radon Action Month in Somerset County.
Radon is a serious health risk. It is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in general. For smokers, the risk of developing lung cancer is increased dramatically if they also are exposed to excess radon. According to the Somerset County Cancer Coalition, lung and bronchus cancers are the number-one cause of cancer-related fatalities in Somerset County.
Radon does not cause any immediate symptoms, such as asthma or respiratory problems. The risk of developing lung cancer is the only known health effect.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that occurs naturally in soil. It is produced by the natural breakdown of uranium and radium in rock formations, and occurs in higher concentrations in certain areas of the state, including Somerset County.
NJDEP data indicates that numerous municipalities within the county have a high percentage of homes which exceed the radon action level of 4 picocuries per liter. According to County health department data, one out of every three homes in Somerset County tested during 2008 and 2009 exceeded the action level.
“To reduce the risk of exposure to radon gas, we encourage residents to have their homes tested,” said Stephanie Carey, Montgomery Township Health Officer. “Often, homes on the same block will have different test results. So even if your neighbor’s home is not affected by radon gas, your home could still be above an acceptable range.”
Starting January 3rd, Montgomery residents may purchase a reduced cost radon kit for $10.00 at the Montgomery Township Health Department located at 2261 Route 206, Belle Mead, NJ. The kit may be paid for by check (made out to Montgomery Township) or by cash (exact change only). Health Department hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 – 4:30 p.m.
There is a limited supply of test kits, so it is recommended that residents call the Health Department to ensure kits are still available before coming in. The Health Department can be reached at (908)359-8211 ext. 227.
The Farmer and the Horse: A Documentary at the Mary Jacobs Library
Van Harlingen Historical Society
presents The Farmer and the Horse: A Documentary at the Mary Jacobs Library
From award-winning journalist Jared Flesher comes The Farmer and the Horse, a documentary film that digs into difficult questions about sustainability, self sufficiency, and why we do the work we do. Flesher’s film goes beyond the usual platitudes of smiling organic farmers talking about good life. This is a documentary everyone who cares about land use, agricultural history, the environment, and good food should see. Join us on Wednesday, January 11 at 7 pm at the Mary Jacobs Library.
Registration is required for this program.
For more information about any of our programs, or to register, visit us at 64 Washington Street in Rocky Hill or call 609-924-7073 ext 4. For a complete list of upcoming Library programs and additional information about the Somerset County Library System visit www.sclsnj.org.
Man’s Fascination with the Planet Mars Program at the Mary Jacobs Library
John Andrews from the New Jersey Astronomical Association will be presenting the program Man's Fascination with the Planet Mars at the Mary Jacobs Library on Wednesday, January 25 at 7 pm.
Mankind has been tracking the motion of the red planet across the night sky for millennia. For many years it was assumed by many, including some astronomers, that Mars was inhabited by intelligent life. Through books, movies and radio shows we have managed to keep the dream alive. Although larger telescopes and robotic space missions have not revealed evidence of such advanced life the verdict is still out as to whether Mars harbored, or still contains, simpler organisms. The fascination with our rust colored neighboring world remains strong, such that funding for a manned mission to Mars is still on our space exploration to-do list. John Andrews from the New Jersey Astronomical Association will chronicle our love affair with the Red Planet.
Registration is required for this program.
For more information about any of our programs, or to register, visit us at 64 Washington Street in Rocky Hill or call 609-924-7073 ext. 4. For a complete list of upcoming Library programs and additional information about the Somerset County Library System visit www.sclsnj.org.
Township Committee Activity Report
November 3, 2011
Consent Agenda:Passed resolutions to:
•Execute an agreement for reservation of remaining sewage capacity with S.A.V.E. – A Friend to Homeless Animals related to remaining capacity in the Skillman Village Sewage Treatment Plant
•Execute a shared services agreement between Mercer County and Montgomery Township for public health preparedness and response to bio-terrorism, outbreak of infectious disease, and other public health threats and emergencies for the period of September 1, 2011 to August 31, 2014
Actions:
•Approved a resolution that, when counter-signed by AWT Environmental Services, Inc. shall serve as a contract amendment to the original contract for the purpose of decreasing the total contract price by $48,560.80 for a total contract amount of $234,939.20 for the Skillman Village Coal Ash Material Beneficial/Disposal Project
•Adopted ordinance authorizing purchase for open space Lot 20 in Block 10001 (Potter Tract) on Grandview Road
•Adopted ordinance authorizing the Township’s participation in the Raritan and Millstone Rivers Flood Control Commission and amending the Township Code accordingly
November 14, 2011 Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to:
•Refund past tax overpayments
•Cancel outstanding unpaid checks on the books of the payroll account
•Request director of Division of Local Government Services to approve insertion $3,056.22 for Body Armor Replacement Fund Program in revenue in the 2011 budget
•Support in concept the Sustainable Raritan River Initiative and work as an active member of the Raritan River Collaborative to promote efforts to restore and protect the river in accordance with the goals as outlined in the Sustainable Raritan River Action Plan
Actions:
•Authorized a shared services agreement for a shared municipal court between Montgomery and Hillsborough Township
•Authorized renewal of Alcoholic Beverage Control License #1813-33-012-001 to MTC Restaurant III, LLC for the year 2011-2012.
Notes From the Township Administrator - Jan 2012
Effective January 1, 2012 Montgomery’s Municipal Court operations move to Hillsborough. Through this merger the Township will see over $80,000 in savings through reductions in staff and related costs. At the same time all revenue derived from the court shall be retained by Montgomery. The decision to merge came after two years of study, working with Hillsborough and the Administrative Office of the Courts.
Municipal departmental consolidation has been under study for a long time. I recall the Somerset Alliance for the Future studying the merger of the Bridgewater and Somerville Police departments as far back as 1993. Somerset County in conjunction with the Somerset County Municipal Managers Association spent the last four years looking at the feasibility of combining/consolidating Code Enforcement, Tax Assessment, Municipal Court and Police.
Municipal consolidation whether it is at the department level or the town to town level is happening. The economic downturn, the 2% CAP Law, the desire to reduce the costs of municipal operations, and the overreliance on property taxes are driving this trend. Montgomery is continuing to look at increasing efficiency in operations in a desire to maintain existing service levels concentrating on Public Health and Public.
The 2012 Municipal Budget is being developed with the aforementioned goals in mind. Staff will be working hand in hand with the Township Committee to develop the best possible budget given the fiscal circumstances.
As we start the New Year I would like to note the near completion of the Rt.206 CSX bridge project, the repaving of a significant portion of Rt. 206, as well as the improvements made along Cherry Valley Road near the Rt. 206 intersection. The upgrade to the Skillman Village wastewater treatment plant and the upgrade and expansion of the Pike Brook wastewater treatment plant are also in the “home stretch”. Lastly, the completion of the cleanup and demolition and sale of Skillman Village to Somerset County capped off a very busy 2011. My hope for all is a great 2012.
Township Submits COAH Plan - 5 Month Stay on Filing, S-1 Still Not Approved
It may have seemed that the Montgomery Township Committee's approval of a modified Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) plan at a public meeting on the morning of November 29 - its filing deadline - ended its COAH saga. But as Mayor Mark Caliguire explains, "COAH just approved our request for a [five month] stay [on filing on December 9]. So now they will not even review the plan we submitted at the end of November." Meanwhile, although the New Jersey State Senate approved bill S-1 - which would abolish COAH - in June, the New Jersey State Assembly has yet to vote on it.
The soundness of COAH's compliance mandates has been questioned by many public entities. The League of Municipalities' legal challenge to these rules was heard in New Jersey State Appellate Court on December 1, 2009. Montgomery is part of the League. The Court's decision on the challenge was anticipated last spring, but did not come until October. It deemed COAH's rules "invalid," and gave the agency five months to develop new requirements. This ruling was the basis for the Township's request for a stay in early November.
Cancellation of COAH's November meeting prevented discussion of the Township's request. With a deadline impending, the Township submitted a plan but asked COAH not to review it until its request was decided. Public Township meetings on the plan had been cancelled and rescheduled several times since June 14, due to COAH's ever-changing circumstances.
Caliguire sums up the convoluted situation: "At this point COAH will either submit amended rules sometime next year - and in all likelihood our 'obligation' will be quite different - or the legislature will act to abolish COAH altogether. At this point all we can do is wait to determine at some point in the future what the lay of the land will be. We simply do not know."
According to the Township's previous COAH plan, developer Sharbell was to purchase land north of Route 518 and Research Road from engineering firm Kepner-Tregoe. This land adjoins Tapestry, Sharbell's age-restricted development which will have 218 units when complete. Sharbell would have built 250 attached townhouses and condominiums - 50 of them COAH - and 20,000 square feet of commercial space on 27 acres. Now the 50 COAH units are planned for six acres of Township-owned land east of Route 206 and north of the Municipal Building.
The plan still calls for Sharbell's Tapestry II to consist of 153 market rate units on 67 acres and 80 COAH apartment units in a three-story building on four acres. All of these units would be for sale, and both parcels adjoin the original Tapestry development. The first parcel would consist of 71 detached single family homes and 82 townhomes. Twelve of these units would be age-restricted and 36 would be age-targeted. Housing is defined as age-targeted if the bedrooms are on the first floor, since senior citizens are more likely to inhabit it than families with children. The COAH apartments would all be age-restricted.
Montgomery to Share Court with Hillsborough in New Year
Montgomery Township Court cases will be held once a week in the Hillsborough Township Municipal Court as of January 1, according to a resolution adopted by the Township Committee on the morning of November 14. Montgomery Deputy Court Administrator Judy Norris will assume the same position – currently vacant - in the Hillsborough Court. Meanwhile, Municipal Judge Eric Perkins, whose appointment expires December 31 of this year, Court Administrator Marilyn Staats, Municipal Prosecutors William Willard and Christopher Bateman, and Public Defender James Wronko will all be eliminated. These cuts are expected to save the Township about $80,000 per year. Montgomery will pay Hillsborough $145,000 per year to share its Court; roughly one-third of Hillsborough’s annual Court budget.
Montgomery Mayor Mark Caliguire says sharing a Court – and personnel - with Hillsborough will realize savings for the Township while “public health and safety would not be compromised.” A merged court, in contrast, would have different personnel for each Township. Hillsborough hears about three times more cases per year than Montgomery. Each Township will have its own records, allowing revenue to be separated.
While a study by New Jersey Professional Management said sharing a Court with Hillsborough would net a $20,000 loss to Montgomery, Township Administrator Donato Nieman says the study does not apply to this situation since no Court staff will be retained – and thus paid - by Montgomery, as the study recommended. Former Mayor Robert Kress questioned whether the Township’s Court costs would rise from the overtime paid to Montgomery police officers appearing in the shared Court in Hillsborough. Nieman explained that overtime pay needed for police officers’ appearances in Hillsborough Court are included in the Court sharing fee that Montgomery will pay Hillsborough.
The Township is considering relocation of the Detective Bureau into the offices occupied by Court personnel in the Municipal Building. This would allow removal of the trailer in the parking lot which currently serves as the Bureau’s office space.
The New Jersey State Administrative Office of the Court - the regulatory body for Municipal Courts – and Hillsborough Township also approved a shared court with Montgomery. The two townships have been exploring this option for the past two years, and the agreement will hold for five years unless one of the Townships chooses to end it sooner.
Municipal meetings for Montgomery’s Township Committee and Boards for Planning, Zoning, and Health will continue to be held in the courtroom in the Montgomery Township Municipal Building. Hillsborough Court is located in the Municipal Complex at 379 South Branch Road.
Reduced-Cost Radon Testing Kits Available
Radon exposure is estimated to cause 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually
MONTGOMERY TWP. – The Greater Somerset Public Health Partnership, in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), is recognizing January as Radon Action Month in Somerset County.
Radon is a serious health risk. It is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in general. For smokers, the risk of developing lung cancer is increased dramatically if they also are exposed to excess radon. According to the Somerset County Cancer Coalition, lung and bronchus cancers are the number-one cause of cancer-related fatalities in Somerset County.
Radon does not cause any immediate symptoms, such as asthma or respiratory problems. The risk of developing lung cancer is the only known health effect.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that occurs naturally in soil. It is produced by the natural breakdown of uranium and radium in rock formations, and occurs in higher concentrations in certain areas of the state, including Somerset County.
NJDEP data indicates that numerous municipalities within the county have a high percentage of homes which exceed the radon action level of 4 picocuries per liter. According to County health department data, one out of every three homes in Somerset County tested during 2008 and 2009 exceeded the action level.
“To reduce the risk of exposure to radon gas, we encourage residents to have their homes tested,” said Stephanie Carey, Montgomery Township Health Officer. “Often, homes on the same block will have different test results. So even if your neighbor’s home is not affected by radon gas, your home could still be above an acceptable range.”
Starting January 3rd, Montgomery residents may purchase a reduced cost radon kit for $10.00 at the Montgomery Township Health Department located at 2261 Route 206, Belle Mead, NJ. The kit may be paid for by check (made out to Montgomery Township) or by cash (exact change only). Health Department hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 – 4:30 p.m.
There is a limited supply of test kits, so it is recommended that residents call the Health Department to ensure kits are still available before coming in. The Health Department can be reached at (908)359-8211 ext. 227.
Township Discarded Xmas Tree Pickup Starts Jan 9
The Montgomery Township Department of Public Works will be starting curbside Christmas tree collection on Monday, January 9, 2012. This collection takes several days so please be patient. Please do not wait to put your tree(s) out, if your section of town happens to be collected first, it is possible that trees placed to the curb after January 9th may not be picked up.
As an alternative, an area at the Department of Public Works site, located at 12 Harlingen Road, will be set up to receive discarded Christmas trees if you prefer to drop them off. This site is available for drop off at any hour, or day, starting December 27, 2011 until January 31, 2012. All trees either to be picked up or dropped off must be free of tinsel and ornaments.
Regular tree limbs/brush may be brought to the Public Works yard without charge but ONLY during the regular Saturday drop-off dates from 8 am to 12 noon. There is a container facility day on January 7th, 2012. If you have any questions, please contact the Department of Public Works at (908) 874-3144.
Cell Tower Hearings Continue
Is the Township running out the clock?
The Montgomery Township Zoning Board met on February 15 to once again discuss the application filed by T-Mobile, or Omnipoint Communications, for construction of a cell tower. Testimony was given by Timothy Kronk, a professional planner hired by T-Mobile, who had testified at the November 23 meeting concerning the proposed tower. Constantine Stamos, attorney for T-Mobile, also testified.
Kronk informed the Board that the owner of the proposed site, 139 Green Avenue in Belle Mead, consented in writing to lease an additional 20,000 square feet to T-Mobile. The firm will submit a site plan with the additional land to the Board.
As previously requested, Kronk presented several photographs taken on December 9 from various locations on or near Green Avenue, Staats Farm Road, and Franklin Drive – all near the proposed site. Photos taken at each location were presented four ways. The first photo showed a balloon sent to 100 feet from the proposed site. A second photo showed the image of a 100 foot tree-like cell tower superimposed at the site. The third showed a balloon sent to 120 feet from the site. The last photo showed the image of a 120 foot tree-like cell tower superimposed at the site. The “tree pole” image was from a cell tower located on Route 10 in Denville, New Jersey.
Kronk said the proposed tower would have the same number of branches as the tower in Denville. The branches would cover the top 50 feet of the tower. Board Member Paul Woitach asked why photos showing the 120 foot tower or balloon were taken from a closer range, and why each of the photos for a given location were not always taken from the same spot. When Kronk replied, “They’re close,” Woitach responded, “They’re not anywhere near close. If you measure, you will see a difference. I’m talking geometry. I’d like a straightforward demonstration.” Stamos retorted, “There is no statute saying we have to be at the same location.”
Woitach noted that the images get magnified as you get closer. He asked, “If you’re taking a picture and you move closer, would it seem smaller? It’s not precise.” Township Planner Richard Coppola noted, “In my experience, it gives a pretty good representation.” Board Chairman Jerry Walker then suggested, “We have the exhibits. Why don’t we move on?”
When Walker asked, “Last time you were here, you said the primary negative factor [of the tower] is visibility?” Kronk agreed. When Board Member Michael Gamache asked about the Denville site, Kronk said, “Actually, it’s a very bad location. It’s on the crest of a hill; there’s nothing else around it. It’s only set 70 feet from the road. 139 Green Avenue is a far superior location.” Referring to a photo taken from Green Avenue with the tree pole superimposed in the tree line at the edge of a field, Gamache asked, “That is substantially better than a commercial location? You think that’s camouflaged?”
Kronk then presented a computer image of a map of the area superimposed with the search ring chosen by T-Mobile to close the gap in coverage. The Green Avenue site was on the northern edge of the search ring. When Gamache asked if this was a standard size search ring, Kronk replied, “For this type of area (rural), this is standard.” He said the diameter of the search ring was 4,000 feet. He then displayed a Google earth aerial photo of the area with the search ring overlaid.
Kronk then showed an aerial photo of Caliper Farms on Belle Mead-Griggstown Road, by the southern end of Green Avenue. This non-residential property consists of two adjoining lots and is large enough as well as far enough from neighbors to accommodate a cell tower. When Board Member Rich Smith asked if T-Mobile had contacted Caliper Farms about the possibility of having a cell tower installed, Kronk replied, “Yes, Caliper Farms was contacted several years ago and recently recontacted [on December 21]. They still had no interest.”
Stamos explained that this property consists of about 18 acres, with Poling Farm Court to the east and Wilshire Drive to the south. An aerial photo of Caliper Farms, marked with a possible site just south of the search ring that meets the required 500 foot setbacks from neighboring residences, was displayed. Half of this property is within T-Mobile’s search ring. Kronk said, “The important thing to notice here is that this property is really wide open. There is very little mature vegetation. There would be greater visibility with this property.”
Kronk said that after November’s meeting he recommended that Caliper Farms be contacted again to verify that they were still not interested. Coppola said, “We’ve gone a whole year [with this application]. What other sites have been looked at? There’s obviously public opposition; that would affect the owner’s reluctance to consent.” When Jonathan Drill, attorney for the Board, asked to see evidence of T-Mobile’s first contact with the owner, the applicant could not produce it. Kronk said, “Caliper Farms, being a non-conforming use, especially on 18 acres, would be a better location. However, based on minimal vegetation, it would be more visible.” Coppola noted, “There could be a silo [cell tower] on that site.”
Kronk then showed a Google earth photo of another possible site just south of the 139 Green Avenue site, between Rosewood Court and River Road. It consists of two adjoining lots totaling 25 acres and is owned by Francis Lloyd and June B. Staats. Kronk said he looked into this site after the November meeting. The northeast border of the search ring runs through it. There is one small area there in a field that would meet setback requirements from neighbors, the property line (200 feet), and the River Road Historic District (1000 feet). Kronk admitted that because of slight variations in the names on tax records, “I did not notice that the two lots were owned by the same people before. It would remain a d (1) [non-permitted use] variance.”
When Drill asked the height of the trees in the area, Kronk said they were similar to Green Avenue at 60 feet. Drill asked, “Would this be a better site from a planning perspective? You’re conceding that it’s better than the proposed site from a relief standpoint?” Walker noted, “You could ask for bulk variances on this site.”
Coppola pointed out, “I understand that you’re looking at a site that meets the [setback] requirements. In the current [139 Green Avenue] site, you’re much less than setback requirements. Are there other sites in the area that may not be in total compliance but would be more compliant than the current site?” Kronk replied, “With the other properties, the tower would be in the middle of a farm field.” Coppola noted, “You might have a silo tower on those sites. There are structures other than a tree. I don’t recall these other sites being discussed by the radio frequency engineer.” Kronk said that he and the engineer had no input in choosing a site.
When Board Member Tom Wilson asked if it was common practice to use two lots, Drill replied, “Legally, if there’s a common owner, then it could be considered one lot.” The Board questioned whether a tower on this site could be situated in a wooded area on the lots. Kronk said, “The only feasible way would be to go southeast into the trees. Then we’re into the setback for Rosewood Court. [The site shown] would have less setback variances.”
The tower will once again be discussed at the March 15 Zoning Board meeting. T-Mobile’s application is valid until April 30 of this year.
"The Montgomery Guide" Now Available On-line
The Montgomery Guide gives an overview of Montgomery government and community. It is now posted for viewing or download on the township website at www.montgomery.nj.us. It contains key contacts and info on our leadership and each department of the municipal offices. It also has info on emergency and fire services, voting and elections, recreational and cultural opportunities, County resources, senior services, hotlines and much more. The Guide can be picked up at the front reception desk of the municipal building, 2261 Rt. 206, or the Otto Kaufman Community Center, 356 Skillman Rd., M-F, 8-4:30.
If you are a new resident we also have a welcome packet for you! The New Resident Packet includes the above-described Montgomery Guide and is also packed with helpful brochures and flyers on need-to-know topics for new residents. Recycling schedule, sewer or septic care, voter registration forms, dog license forms, maps of township parks – these are some items in the new resident packet. (Available for free at the reception desk of the municipal building, 2261 Rt. 206, where new households can also pick up their recycling bucket.)
Montgomery Township website
Township to Provide Health Services and Animal Control to Hopewell and Pennington Boroughs
The Montgomery Township Department of Health, which includes Animal Control, will also service Hopewell and Pennington Boroughs starting in 2011. The staff in Montgomery will not change, and monies from the Boroughs will allow the Township to pay for four hours of health educator services per week. According to Health Officer Stephanie Carey, “This is an opportunity to fully utilize all of our staff and to restore health educator services, which will be provided by Suzanne Rose.” In 2009, the Township logged about 200 hours of health educator services, while in 2010, these services were restricted to H1N1 clinics and grant funded programs.
Health services for Hopewell and Pennington Boroughs had been provided by Hopewell Township. According to Carey, “The chief areas of activity in the Boroughs would be inspection of retail food establishments, investigation of public health nuisances, and public health education and clinics.” These services are currently provided to Township residents.
For Township residents, the Health Department will continue to oversee design and construction of new septic systems and wells; monitor maintenance and repair of onsite sewage disposal systems; inspect installations of private wells; and keep record of small-volume hazardous materials sites. There are two Registered Environmental Health Specialists who perform these tasks. Carey notes that homes in Hopewell and Pennington Boroughs do not have septic systems, and very few have wells. The Department also maintains records of births, marriages, civil unions, and deaths in the Township and coordinates the activities of the Board of Health, led by residents who volunteer their time.
The Health Department has been recognized by the National Association of City and County Health Officials, the New Jersey Health Officers Association, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation for its work with community partners and its leadership in H1N1 response. Carey notes, “Our strategy is to follow evidence-based best practices to provide essential public health services throughout our area. We will work with key community stakeholders to make sure our program addresses the highest priority health needs of the community.” The Department is planning to host a ‘listening session’ later this winter, where Montgomery residents and business owners can give input and receive answers to their questions.
HOMEOWNERS – Things You Should Consider”
The Somerset County Coalition on Affordable Housing (SCCOAH) is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency that has helped its clients overcome their housing hurdles for over 20 years.
“Homeowners – Things You Should Consider” is an in-depth educational program for current homeowners. This FREE program will ensure that your home ownership experience continues to be a successful and positive one. It is offered only one time per year and is held in the month of February to allow homeowners with property tax questions enough time to submit appeals (4/1/10 is NJ deadline) or get answers.
“Many homeowners recognize that their home value is less now than in previous years and therefore feel their tax assessment is too high, but do not understand the tax appeal process.” stated Realtor Judy Lewis, SCCOAH Board Member.
The program is scheduled for February 25, 2010 and will be held at the Somerville Elks Lodge, 375 Union Avenue, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. The program begins promptly at 5:15 pm and ends at 8:15 pm and will include a light dinner.
Montgomery Twp Mayor Trzaska's remarks at the reorganization meeting Jan 5
I feel honored and privileged to become the Mayor of Montgomery. I would like to thank my colleagues for entrusting me with this responsibility and promise to do my very best. Former Mayor Mark Caliguire has set a very high bar for this office. I have learned so much from him and will continue to take advantage of his advice and wisdom as he begins his new role as Somerset County Freeholder.
Over the past few years, Montgomery has suffered economic hardship, just like the entire nation. Many of our residents are having trouble making ends meet and so is the Township. Last year we had to deal with a $750,000 budget shortfall due to declining revenues and mandated spending increases. Unfortunately, this trend continues and our challenges for this year are significant.
However, with great challenges come great opportunities. It’s up to the members of our Township Committee to decide how to respond. Do we take the easy way out by slashing services or enacting large tax increases? Or, do we try to improve government, do more with less, and protect the quality of life and public health and safety of Montgomery?
During recent elections, we have promised to focus on our vision of “Better, Smarter, Government” and our successes have been noteworthy:
· Reduced spending to below 2004 levels without impacting services
· Realized almost $200,000 in annual savings by sharing and consolidating services
· Stabilized municipal taxes after several years of double-digit increases
· Generated $14 million for debt reduction by creating Skillman Park, a 250-acre passive use park in the heart of town
· Expanded the Cherry Brook Preserve and moved forward on preserving other tracts of land throughout town
This is what people can do when they are committed to a vision. Does this mean that the challenges we face this year will be easy to solve? No it doesn’t. We will have another significant budget gap. We will continue to confront external pressures, like COAH housing, which impacts our ability to protect our quality of life. And, we are faced with a sewer treatment system that is aging and in desperate need of plant consolidation. But what this does mean is that with the help our dedicated professionals in town hall, we will roll up our sleeves, identify the best possible solutions, and meet these challenges head-on.
We will continue to find creative ways to do more with less regarding the budget, work tirelessly to preserve more open space, and complete the sewer consolidation study so we can move forward with an aggressive plan to make our sewer system more efficient.
I also look forward to making local government more accessible. Last year, we began linking audio recordings of Township Committee meetings to the town’s website and this year we hope to finalize a plan to televise meetings, something that has never been done before.
Finally, I would like to see the start of construction of the long-delayed Montgomery Promenade. We are working to finalize plans for a slightly revised complex. When completed, the Promenade will bring to town some truly exciting services.
So, this year is full of challenges and opportunities. We will work hard, we will work wisely, and hopefully at the end of the day, we will make the residents of Montgomery proud of their local government.
Notes From the Township Administrator
Montgomery Township Adopted its 2011 Municipal in May. The Township Committee established a Budget Sub-committee that worked very closely with the Municipal Staff to prepare a draft budget for presentation to the entire Township Committee. This budget was the first one to be developed under the new 2% Property Tax Cap. It was the goal of the Township Committee to maintain current service levels while minimizing any increase in the tax levy.
There were several mandatory increases: Pension contributions increased by $138,700, Health Care by $257,900 and Statutory and Contractual raises by $128,000. At the same time the Township faced a decline in revenue of $237,000. Non-grant spending was reduced by $132,000. Savings of $125,000 were generated by joining of self-insured fund for health insurance with other local municipalities.
Approximately $90,000 in estimated savings will be achieved by seeking out new suppliers for natural gas and electricity. Montgomery will also see approximately $60,000 in revenue by entering into shared services agreements with Hopewell and Pennington Boroughs proving both towns with Health and Animal Control services. State Aid remained flat at the 2010 level. At the same time the Township was aggressively pursuing grant opportunities resulting in approximately $1,300,000 in grant revenue being received for use in the 2011 Budget
Taking all these factors into account, the Township was able to prepare a budget at spending levels below 2004 levels and a tax increase of ½ cent. This would mean an increase of $24.89 on the average assessed home in Montgomery. It is important to keep in mind the pressures brought to bear early in the 2011 Budget year. Snow removal and the associated cleanup cost the Township over $250,000 this winter. Now that the warm weather has arrived pothole and road repairs are having a significant impact on the Township Budget.
Township staff has already begun work on the 2012 Budget. We are finalizing a shared services agreement with Hillsborough for Municipal Court services. The sale of Skillman Village will reduce our debt service by approximately $120,000, and lastly we continue to review all municipal operations to wring every possible savings.
I wish everyone
Notes From the Township Administrator - April 2011
As the weather improves construction activity increases. Significant progress has been made on the upgrades to the Skillman Village Wastewater Treatment Plant. It is approximately 60% complete and work is progressing as planned. The upgrade and expansion of the Pike Brook Wastewater Treatment Plant is approximately 50% complete. This is a much larger project as it involves not just an upgrade of the treatment processes but an expansion of capacity. Both plants when completed will produce exceptionally clean effluent, improving the water quality in the Millstone River Watershed.
Temperatures are on the rise during daylight hours, but they still can drop below freezing in the evenings. The warming and cooling of road surfaces exacerbate the development of potholes. Public Works will be concentrating on pothole repair using “Cold Patch” as a temporary repair and as the weather warms switching to road repair materials that provide a more permanent fix. This winter has been exceptionally harsh and wreaked havoc on road surfaces, watch your speed and keep on the look out for potholes to avoid knocking wheels out of alignment or possible tire failure.
To give you an idea of how the impact of the winter snowstorms to date, the Township has expended over $250,000 in labor and materials to remove snow and make our roads safe. Hopefully, the last two months of 2011 will be snow free, as the Township budget could certainly use a break. Snowfall accumulations for this year have some of the highest since local meteorological records have been kept.
The Montgomery Township Police Department has been concentrating on traffic safety and motor vehicle enforcement. Please buckle your seat belt and stay off your cell phone when driving. Not only do you jeopardize your safety, but you jeopardize the safety of other motorists and their passengers. New temporary road signs have been purchased for use during wet weather near flooded areas that state “Turn Around Don’t Drown!” Numerous motorists have ignored road closed signs and driven their vehicles in deep water on flooded local roads placing themselves at risk as well as those public safety employees who have to rescue them. Please turn around if you see a barricade indicating a road closure, they are put in place to ensure your safety. The Township Police and Public Works Departments monitor road conditions and remove road barricades as soon as conditions allow for safe vehicular passage. Please help us help you travel safely throughout our Township.
Election Districts Realigned by County
On March 1, as a consequence of the 2010 Census reports, the Somerset County Board of Elections announced the realignment of some 76 election districts, affecting 13 communities, including Montgomery Township.
Title 19 of the NJ election laws requires that each voter district has no more than 750 nor fewer than 250 registered voters. In Montgomery, according to Township Clerk Donna Kukla, Districts 1, 10, 15 and 16 had more than 750 registered voters. These four districts will be split, with some voters transferred from their old district to another, with three new districts created, resulting in 19 voter districts.
For a majority of voters, the districts will stay the same. And even for those in districts that will be split, “Most voters will go to the same polling places as previously,” she noted. However, Ms. Kukla said that there would be minor changes in three districts, resulting in a change of the polling place for some during the November elections. For instance, “People living on Sycamore went to the Masonic Lodge to vote. But now, some will be able to vote at Stonebridge, which is much closer.
”
During the November Elections, there are usually five polling places. During the April School Elections, there are generally only two polling places, one of them in Rocky Hill.
The changes are driven by demographics, Ms. Kukla pointed out. “Quite possibly in two or three years when Tapestry is built out we might see another change.”
32 of the realigned districts in the County had too many voters, the rest had too few voters.
Ground Broken for Montgomery Veterans Memorial
Construction of the Montgomery Veterans Memorial (MVM) officially began on April 29 at Montgomery Park. The MVM Committee was successful in raising the funds needed to complete the first phase of the project – over $24,000 - since December of last year, all from private donations. According to the Committee, “The memorial is designed to be a lasting and living tribute to Montgomery residents who have served our nation in times of war.”
The memorial will be located at the highest point in Montgomery Park, in a wooded area near the curve in Harlingen Road. The Committee notes that this location is “suitable for quiet contemplation as well as for public gatherings and patriotic observances.”
The groundbreaking ceremony began with Boy Scout Troop 46’s color guard accompanied by Lieutenant (Lt.) James Curry of the Montgomery Police Department on bagpipes. Hugh Dyer, Chairman of the MVM Committee, then described the project. Aisling Tyndall, a sophomore at Montgomery High School who became a U.S. citizen last year, sang the National Anthem.
Special honored guests were also present. MVM Committee member Louise Wilson noted that “Mayor Mark Caliguire spoke eloquently about the importance of remembering the contributions and sacrifices of veterans and their families.” First Lt. David Bennett of the US Marine Corps, home on leave from his service in Afghanistan, attended too. William Lubas carried a flag that his son John, a Major in the US Army serving in Afghanistan, had with him on several ranger missions.
A benefit reception was held following the groundbreaking at the Princeton Elks Lodge, who donated use of the space. The evening featured food by Chez Alice – paid for by two private donations; a cash bar; and music by the Blawenburg Dixieland Band. A 50/50 raffle was also held. Deputy Mayor Kacey Dyer won the 50/50 and donated her winnings to the Committee. During the reception, Superintendent of Schools Earl Kim, a former Second Lt. in the US Marine Corps, presented the Committee with a check for $2,142. Kim spearheaded a two week campaign of Montgomery Township School personnel to raise these funds. The evening garnered a total of $4,000 for the Memorial.
The MVM Committee was formed 20 years ago. John Warms, a Former Township Committee member and Mayor who taught history, was always interested in the Township’s history. Dyer, who has been on the Committee since its inception, notes, “He thought a memorial celebrating our background and heritage would be an asset to our community.” At the groundbreaking, Dyer recognized both Warms and Jerry Cianfrocca, “whose vision, dedication and work years ago made the Montgomery Veterans Memorial possible. “
The Committee has been most active in the last decade. The site initially chosen for the Memorial was on a hilltop in Montgomery Park near the arboretum. This location required extensive retaining walls, which made the cost prohibitive. In 2004, new stream corridor regulations made it impossible to build the memorial there. Dyer explains, “We had to go back to the Township Committee to ask for another site.” A spot in Skillman Village was selected. The flat land there was desirable, but lack of a development plan for the Village was not. When the Township sought to sell the Village to Somerset County last year, a new site was again needed.
The Township Committee approved the current site in October of last year. Dyer says, “At that point, we could begin our fundraising.” Dyer points out that the Memorial “has had the unqualified support of every Township official during the entire process. Without that support, we would not have accomplished what we’ve been able to so far.” In mid-February, the Policeman’s Benevolent Association # 355 from Montgomery offered to match contributions to the Committee up to $2,500. This amount has been surpassed.
The first phase of the project entails installing three flagpoles, a central pentagram, and five three-sided columns. The pentagram will weigh 7 tons while each column will be 3 ½ tons. These pieces, expected in late June, will be constructed of mesabi black granite from Minnesota. The columns will be engraved with 923 veterans’ names, recognizing residents who served the country from the Revolutionary war until today.
Dyer says, “Between now and late June, we will be installing the footings and foundations for the stones and flagpoles. Once the large stones are in, we will build and pour as much of the concrete plaza as we can.” The Montgomery Rocky Hill Chapter of Rotary Club is donating the flagpoles, while Silvi Concrete will be donating concrete.
Dyer expects that the second phase, which involves backfilling, final grading, and installation of stone walkways, plantings, and sidewalks will be done by the end of August. Granite benches, part of the initial design, were eliminated due to their $12,000 price tag. Instead, retaining walls will serve as benches. He explains, “We are doing some ‘design to cost’ studies to reduce the cost.” He adds that donated goods and services will play a significant part in this effort.
Dyer concludes, “Our fundraising efforts will continue. We’re very grateful for all the contributions. I think people will be pleased with the project.” A formal dedication ceremony is being planned for November 11 (Veteran’s day).
Those wishing to make a donation to the Montgomery Veterans Memorial can do so online at the MVM website (http://montgomeryveteransmemorial.org/) or by mailing a check to Montgomery Veterans Memorial Fund c/o PACF; 15 Princess Rd.; Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN HELD SEAT FOR FOUR MONTHS AFTER MOVING TO AUSTRALIA
Montgomery Township Committeeman Thom Carter moved to Australia in June, but continued
to hold his seat and collect pay for more than four months. He finally resigned last week.
The last Township Committee meeting he attended in person was June 2. He subsequently
telephoned in to meetings on two occasions.
By delaying the resignation until October, Carter denied Montgomery voters the chance to elect
a replacement. Instead, his successor will be appointed by the all‐Republican Township
Committee.
“The Township Committee kept this a secret all summer so they would not be in jeopardy of
losing the seat this November,” says Mark Petraske, the Democratic candidate for the other
open seat on the Township Committee. “There was no public mention of Carter’s having left
the country, and no reason given for his persistent absence.
“Carter got paid, and the Republicans got to keep the seat; it was certainly a win‐win from the
Republicans’ point of view,” Petraske said “However, it was not a win for Montgomery
taxpayers, who foot the bill and were without a working member of the Township Committee
for four months. And now voters don’t even get to choose his replacement.”
By law, if a vacancy occurs more than 70 days before a general election, a replacement is
chosen in that election to serve the remainder of the term. If the vacancy occurs later, a
member of the same political party is appointed to fill the seat until the next general election.
“I have been campaigning about the dangers of one‐party government,” Petraske says. “This is
a perfect example of the kinds of abuse that occur when there is no one from the other party
there to keep an eye on things.
“It’s amazing how quickly our government retreated behind closed doors when the Republicans
took a 5‐0 majority this year,” Petraske continued. “I want to bring back the open, bipartisan
government that Montgomery has traditionally enjoyed.”
Mark Conforti Appointed To Thom Carter Committee Seat
The Montgomery Township Committee has chosen Mark Conforti to fill the seat left vacant by Thom Carter. Regarding Conforti’s qualifications, Mayor Mark Caliguire says, “Mr. Conforti brings experience in financial matters as well as the government experience he gained during his tenure on the Montgomery Board of Education. He is one of the most diligent and public service minded people I know and I am certain he will serve this community well in this role as he has in the past.”
Conforti grew up in Manhattan and Staten Island. He studied economics at Wagner College and earned an MBA from Pace University. He has been working for Credit Suisse for 25 years, where he is currently a banking director. He and his wife moved to Montgomery in 1998 from North Brunswick.
Public service is not new to Conforti. He served on the Board of Education from 2006 to 2009 and has been on the Planning Board during 2010 and 2011. He notes that his mother has been serving her community in Staten Island for 48 years and remembers her asking, “When are you going to do your part?”
When Caliguire invited Conforti to serve on the Committee, Conforti explains, “I offered to help. I just want to serve, and do the best job I can. I’m pretty straightforward. It’s a difficult economic environment now and it will continue to be so.”
Conforti will complete Carter’s term, which ends December 31, 2012.
Township Committee Activity Report - Dec 2011
Oct 6, Consent Agenda Passed resolutions to:
-Proclaim October 10, 2011, “Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day” and call upon everyone to put various lifesaving behaviors into practice to improve safety on the roadways in our community and throughout the State
-Rectify past tax overpayments
-Refund unused portion of special
duty money to Communications
Construction Group
-Adopt a resolution in support of the Township’s application for the “Sustainable New Jersey Animals in the Community Pilot Program” grant
-Request director of Division of Local Government Services to approve insertion $6.190.08 Drunk Driving Enforcement Grant in revenue in the 2011 budget
-Request director of the Division of Local Government Services to approve insertion of $35,126.38 (Garden State Green Acres Trust Grant – Vartan Acquisition) in revenue in the 2011 budget
-Declare 3 Township owned AD model AD190 CCTV monitors and 1 PC HP serial # S90556498 as salvage
-Authorize execution of Construction Sequence Agreement with Bloomberg, LP for the Bloomberg Solar Array
-Authorize execution of Sewer Participation Agreement with Village Shopper III, LLC related to additional capacity in the Stage II Sewage Treatment Plant
-Authorize execution of an agreement for placement on waiting list for allocation of anticipated capacity in the Pike Brook Sewage Treatment Plant with Richard Grosso for Block 6001, Lot 8 (Handler Estates)
Actions:
-Awarded bid for Dumping Stake & Platform Body with Direct Power Liftgate to Dejana Truck, Cinnaminson, NJ, for $9,505.00
-Awarded bid for 2011 or Newer Wheel Loader Backhoe to JESCO, Inc., South Plainfield, NJ, for $89,248.00
-Authorized to enter into project agreements for the preservation of historic structure in the Township with (1) Mount Zion A.M.E. Church of 189 Hollow Road for $1,800.00 for painting and repairing windows and replacing the rear door of the Church, (2) William Evans of 570 Belle Mead Griggstown Road for $1,800.00 for window replacement, and (3) Stephen and Rebecca Smith of 360 Route 518 for $2,000.00) for installing siding on the carriage house
-Adopted an ordinance amending and supplementing the “land development” chapter of the Township Code to establish an optional development alternative for a “planned behavioral health complex in recognition of the existing Carrier Clinic facilities
Oct 20, 2011, Consent Agenda Passed resolutions to:
-Authorize as salvage and dispose of radio base station, bullet resistant window, fingerprint comparator, fuming tank, light bars, mail boxes, gun boxes, radio equipment, scrap metal, vehicle partition, NeoPost postage machine, parts and supplies
-Approve an Outdoor Assembly/Car Show at the Princeton Airport on October 29, 2011 for 5 hours
-Release performance guarantee in the amount of $79,930.00 to Bedens Brook Club
-Approve the Shared Service Agreement between the Townships of Montgomery and Franklin for the Qualified Purchasing Agent
-Accept donation by M.S. Industries of a TomTom GPS for the Public Works Department
-Authorize execution of a Treatment Works Approval Permit application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection related to the Handler Estates Subdivision for connection to the Pike Brook Sewage Treatment Plant
Actions:
-Adopted emergency appropriations as a result of Hurricane Irene:
Police, Salaries & Wages, $13,000.00; Public Works, Salaries & Wages, $17,000.00; Public Works, Other Expenses, $5,000.00; Social Security, Other Expenses, $2,500.00; Health Department, Other Expenses, $5,000.00; Solid Waste Disposal, Other Expenses, $55,000.00; Plant B (Stage II), Other Expenses, $448,400.00, Plant B (Stage II), Salaries & Wages, $4,100.00
-Held public hearing and adopted ordinance amending the Township Code to establish a fee for the solemnization of marriages or civil unions by the Mayor or Deputy Mayor
CHERRY VALLEY ROAD IMPROVEMENT WORK COMPLETED
Improvements to Cherry Valley Road have been completed cooperatively by the Townships of Princeton and Montgomery. The 1,800 foot long road project was constructed by Integrated Construction and Utilities of New Jersey for $879,000. The project was primarily funded through $515,000.00 in NJDOT Municipal Aid grants obtained by the two municipalities. The remaining costs were divided equally.
Cherry Valley Road is a major east-west connector roadway that also is the border between Montgomery and Princeton Townships, and between Somerset and Mercer Counties. The project reconstructed and widened Cherry Valley Rd. between Route 206 and Billie Ellis Lane. The extension of the underground drainage system has eliminated the drainage ditches along the road. Also completed is a pathway along the road linking residential neighborhoods to the westto the Route 206 retail and service district, as well as Montgomery and Princeton Townships’ walkway systems to the east of Route 206. These improvements will enhance safety, traffic flow, pedestrian access and provide wider lanes with shoulders to accommodate bicycles.
Hillside Avenue was also reconstructed in Princeton Township by the same contractor at a cost to Princeton of $473,000.
Costs and Benefits of Skillman Village Sale
Somerset County is expected to purchase Skillman Village from Montgomery Township by the end of the year. What were the costs of the process that allowed the Township to get to this point, and how does the Township benefit? Although the Village was originally purchased from the State of New Jersey for $6M, the Township spent an additional $16M on the property to clean it up, but also acquired a sewage treatment plant and prevented massive development. When the County buys the property, which was appraised at $16M, the Township will receive a check for over $14M from Open Space funds.
Township Administrator Donato Nieman says that beyond the $6M purchase price, the Township spent $9M for environmental remediation; $5M for demolition of buildings; and $1M for remediation oversight, due to the proximity to Village Elementary School. Legal fees cost another $1M, including the Township’s suits against the State to end their long delay in selling it.
Nieman explains, “When it became clear that we were going to buy the property [from the State], we acquired monies for the due diligence and environmental consulting starting in 2004. We had to confirm that the property could be cleaned up, and we knew there were underground utilities. We did a lot of work in preparation for the closing on this property.” He notes that the title search was complicated because “things were done differently at the turn of the 20th century.” He adds, “The State didn’t want to expend a dime. There were costs that we just had to eat.”
The cleanup entailed “engineering work and several layers of environmental monitoring.” Lastly, redevelopment plans were created. In accord with the contract of sale, the Township is putting funds in escrow for demolition of existing buildings and coal ash removal; these funds will not exceed estimates for the work by more than 30%. Nieman says this process is “like when you buy or sell a house.” He notes that any unused escrow monies will be returned to the Township.
The Township will retain ownership of the sewage treatment plant. Nieman points out that it is of significant value. “If we were to build one of these it would cost over $15M; upgrading and expanding the Pike Brook Plant costs $15M.” The Township’s plants must filter at a high level, since they discharge into small bodies of water.
Money received from the sale will be used to retire existing Township debt created from purchasing and cleaning up the Village. Nieman explains, “Our debt service will go down. When we restructured our debt service in 2003, we looked into retiring debt as we took new debt on. The goal was to keep the debt level; we didn’t want to see spikes.” He notes that the Township didn’t go out to bond for the money to purchase the Village; but used short term instruments and so were not paying a lot of interest; often ½%.
Nieman recalls when the Township purchased the Village from the State. “I remember when we closed on the property. Tom Miller, the State’s Property Manager, said ‘I’ve been waiting to give you this’ and handed me a box that had hundreds of keys to all the buildings on the property.”
Sidebar
By Cliff Moore
The Township had been paying 0.5% interest on its total debt, described as a “bond anticipation note,” or roughly, $93,000 interest. This is different than a bond issue. A bond has upfront interest costs. But a bond anticipation note with such low interest results in considerably lower initial costs. Consequently, the sale of Skillman Village should result in a roughly $175,000 line item reduction from the 2011 budget.
Because the total debt also includes 7,800 other items, such as repairs and other capital expenses, it was a little hard to calculate the exact savings for the average taxpayer, whose home, according to Mr. Nieman, is valued at $507,000. However, doing a back-of-the-envelope calculation, it would appear that the savings for each taxpayer would be about $22.83.
But wait, wait, there’s more! State Aid is predicated on a number of factors, including total debt. Because the Township will be paying down its debt as required by statute, it may be penalized for having less debt than it had before the sale of Skillman Village, resulting in less State Aid, and thus more tax per home, not less. Furthermore, since the sale of Skillman Village has taken it off the COAH table, the cost for replacing the Township COAH obligation may result in even greater expenses for taxpayers.
So, best case scenario? Taxpayers will save, on average, $22.83 a year. Congratulations.
Township FACILITY OPEN FOR DISPOSAL OF BRANCHES
To assist residents in disposal of storm damaged brush and branches, the Montgomery Twp. Container Facility, located at 12 Harlingen Road, Belle Mead, is providing extended hours without charge for residents as follows:
Please read dates & hours and this guidance carefully. Dates & Hours:
Mon., Oct. 31st to Friday, Nov. 4th 7:30 am to 2:30 pm; Sat., November 5th, 8:00 am to 2:30pm;
Mon., Nov. 7 to Thurs., Nov. 10th, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 pm; (Note: Twp. facilities are closed Fri., Nov. 11 for Veterans Day); Sat., November 12th, 8:00 am to 2:30 pm; During the above listed dates, no container facility coupons will be required because the facility is open for BRANCHES ONLY.
The next regularly scheduled facility date is Saturday, Nov. 19th, 8 am to 12 noon.
Residents may drop-off branches as well as other items on that date.
On Sat., Nov. 19th, a coupon will not required to bring branches only. However, as usual, a purchased coupon is required for disposal of other items. Further guidance is found on our website at www.montgomery.nj.us [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=kxaopmcab&et=1108453178953&s=6194&e=001ht3KFXUv_BvX2_1tOHyzCrD8hgBa8dwC6tyw33OignumB-M6Q3jsWQN4W1O2JTIdoggF_Ux5YDH_9VoDFRH0_7QPzQG3CybQZ0u1aE-BuWobnhR-Tv6jmAFVX0c8W_1W_EGKX3rEXPnOgFxsvyrelqgXRi45qQPt37D8C2elWYQ=].
Hired landscapers WHO ARE NOT charging the resident to TRANSPORT & DISPOSE of debris may also bring branches to the Container Facility at no cost but, to be admitted, the landscaper MUST bring a letter signed by the Resident (including name, address & telephone) stating that the resident IS NOT being charged for transportation and disposal of brush/branches.
In addition to DPW personnel needed to keep the container facility open longer hours, DPW crews are busy working on damaged trees in the public rights-of-way of township roads. We anticipate it may take 3 to 4 weeks to complete such public right-of-way maintenance work.
If fallen trees are noted on Township property, we appreciate residents notifying Public Works via email at dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us [mailto:dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us] of the location. Thank you for your patience!
Vets Memorial Dedication Nov 11 - one name left off
At noon, Nov. 11, the Montgomery Township Veterans Memorial Committee will dedicate the Veterans memorial at Montgomery Park. The keynote speaker will be the Honorable J. William Middendorf, II, former U.S. ambassador, and former secretary of the Navy.
In a mean-spirited, spiteful act of small town stupidity, the Memorial Committee deliberately left out the name of Cpl. William C. Moore, USMC, Ret., MHS '03, an eight year veteran with three combat tours of in Iraq and Afghanistan. They say that, despite the fact that he went through all 12 years of Montgomery schools, as a Rocky Hill resident, he didn't actually live in Montgomery, for even as little as one day.
Montgomery Township Committee Activity Report - Nov 2011
September 1, 2011, Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to:
•Rectify past tax overpayments
•Refund unused portion of special duty services money to CRJ Contracting Corp.
•Declare certain Township equipment as salvage
•Request Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of items of revenue from the NJ Department of Law and Public Safety – Division of Highway Traffic safety for Child Passenger Safety Education
•Request the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of revenue from the
New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety – Division of Highway Traffic Safety for Driving with Hand-Held Cell Phone Enforcement Grant
•Authorize the Montgomery Township Department of Police Services to submit a Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund grant application to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety
•Authorize submission of the year 2012 Municipal Alliance Grant Update
•Support proposed amendment to the Open Public Records Law to preserve its original intent
•Authorize execution of the Sustainable Land Use Planning Grant Project Agreement with the Association of NJ Environmental Commissions for the Development of a Solar Facilities ordinance
•Authorize bid award for Stainless Steel Dump Body to Henderson Truck Equipment for $17,085
•Authorize bid award for a Crane Truck to CAMMPS Hardware & Lawn Products, Inc.,
For $54,759
Actions:
•Adopted a special traffic regulation closing certain streets within Skillman Village from Sept, 5, 2011- Dec. 5, 2011 due to a temporary condition
•Authorized solicitation of quotations for additional concrete plaza work in connection with the Montgomery Veterans Memorial
•Appointed Mark S. Anderson as hearing officer
•Amended “Parks and Recreation” chapter of the Township Code to allow limited hunting with restrictions and limitations on the Township’s parks and open spaces for purpose of culling white-tailed deer
September 15, 2011
Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to:
•Cancel sewer utility charges on property owned by the New Jersey Department of Corrections located on Burnt Hill Road
•Rectify past tax overpayments
•Enter into a Shared Services Agreement with Franklin Township for the use of a Ditch Master Model 300
•Enter into a Shared Services arrangement with Franklin and Branchburg Townships to share services of Uniform Construction Code inspectors and support staff
•Authorize execution of the agreement to accept public works commodities and services through cooperative and joint purchasing and services with Somerset County for the period Jan.1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2021
•Authorize FY 2012 NJ Dept. of Transportation Municipal Aid Grant Applications for East Mountain Road Improvement Project and Fairview Road Improvement Project, Phase II
•Declare certain Township equipment as surplus personal property
•Recommend the release of escrow fee of $125 to Robert V. Brown, Code Environmental Services due to completion of work in Skillman Village
•Authorize release of Maintenance Bond of $128,580.84 be released to Pike Run,
LLC regarding Pike Run, Phase VII
Actions:
•Requested cancellation of right to use noisemaking device permit from NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection, Div. of Fish and Wildlife, on property owned by John Drake due to continued undue hardship for residents
•Authorized agreement not to exceed $70,000 with JM Sorge, Inc. to conduct confirmatory air monitoring and coordination of demolition activities during the second phase of building demolition of the North Princeton Developmental Center (NPDC) site
•Awarded professional services contract to Van Note-Harvey Associates to perform professional surveying services related to the Township’s sale of Skillman Village, not to exceed $45,000 without prior authorization
•Adopted ordinance to add speed limit on Blue Spring Road
•Adopted Amendment to Deer Management Ordinance.
Notes From The Township Administrator - Nov 2011
As the seasons progress from fall to winter a number of capital projects are moving towards completion. The demolition of the remaining buildings at Skillman Village is wrapping up all the buildings are down, the remaining debris is being processed for use as back fill or prepared from removal and disposal. The coal ash stored on site has been removed. Back filling and final grading should shortly be completed.
The CSX/206 Bridge over the railroad is nearing completion. Traffic patterns have been changed to allow for the completion of the signalized intersection at Routes 206 and 601 and the removal of the old bridge. These improvements will significantly improve traffic safety and traffic flow. Rt. 206 has been restriped just south of the bridge to improve traffic safety and reduce the number of accidents that occur where the 2 southbound lanes merge into one in close proximity to the municipal building.
NJ DOT has informed the Township that Rt. 206 should be resurfaced before the end of the year from approximately Route 518 to Wood Thrush. Should additional funding become available the area would be expanded to include the portions of 206 beginning at Hillside Avenue and stopping near Bridge Point Road. The Township will continue to check with NJDOT on the status of this work.
The traffic signage at the intersection of Belle Mead Griggstown Road and Willow Road has been changed from a two way stop to a four way stop requiring all motorists traveling on these roads to come to a complete stop before passing through or turning at that intersection. That intersection has been the scene of a number of motor vehicle accidents over the years. The Township requested and received approval from Somerset County for the installation of a four way stop as both are county roads.
Our wastewater treatment plant projects are progressing. The upgrades to the Skillman Village sewage treatment plant should be completed by the end of the year. The upgrades and expansion of the Pike Brook sewage treatment plant should be completed in the spring of 2012. The many of the upgrades to these plants were necessitated by changes in the permits issued by NJDEP. The Township had to remove copper and zinc from the effluent and also reduce the discharge of total dissolved solids.
Lastly, the improvements to Cherry valley Road should be nearing completion with improved drainage and sidewalks making that portion of the road safer for pedestrians and motorists.
Montgomery EDC to hold Business Networking Forum October 25
The Montgomery Township Economic Development Commission will hold its annual Fall Business Networking Forum on Oct. 25 at the newly opened Tusk Restaurant located at 1736 Route 206 South in Montgomery. The networking forum will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
"We are delighted to welcome Tusk as the newest member of our business community and grateful it has agreed to host our fall forum," said EDC Chairman Ernest Willson.
The forum is sponsored by The Provident Bank and will feature Mike Kerwin, President and CEO of the Somerset County Business Partnership (“SCBP”), a regional chamber of commerce whose focus is promoting the economic vitality of Somerset County.
Kerwin will discuss the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s recent grant to the SCBP. The grant will help the Partnership prepare a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Somerset County. Kerwin will address how the business community and municipal government will be able to participate in forming the strategy. The event should be of interest to business owners in Montgomery and the surrounding region and will provide ample opportunities for networking.
SPRINKLER USE IN 'WINTER' IMPACTS SEWER BILLING
Reminder to Shut Off Irrigation Systemsc; The following is a reminder to Montgomery Township sewer utility customers who have New Jersey American water service and lawn irrigation systems:
It is advisable to turn your irrigation system off in early to mid October, before your next billing period will begin for NJ American Water.
Township sewer fee charges are based upon water volume use as reflected in your New Jersey American Water bill. The Township's sewer fee calculation system takes the winter months' water use (mid-October to mid-April NJAW billing) and extrapolates that out to a full year, if this results in a lower figure than for the actual full year. This is for the purpose of eliminating, to the maximum extent practicable, billing for water volumes that are due to sprinkler use.
To take full advantage of the winter calculation, customers are also advised to hold off until mid to late-April every spring to turn their sprinkler systems back on, for the same reason.
Montgomery Township Committeeman Thom Carter Resigns
MONTGOMERY (SOMERSET COUNTY): On Thursday Night Republican Township Committeeman Thom Carter resigned after serving two of his three year term.
Carter, 33, has been working for Major League Baseball in Australia since mid-June. The assignment was just to for three months, but officials inside MLB and the Australian Baseball League asked Carter to make the move permanent. In a letter read my the Montgomery Township Clerk (attached), Carter explained that after the organization kept pushing back his departure date they asked him to "make the move to Australia permanent, serving to grow the game of baseball throughout the Australia-Oceania region. After consulting my family I have decided that I cannot pass up this opportunity."
Carter was elected in 2009 in his first ever run for office. Before Carter's victory Democrats had majority control of the Committee for 10 years. Carter's victory created a Republican Majority and lead to the election of Mark Caliguire as Mayor.
Carter closed his letter to the Township, "I appreciate the faith that the people of the Township put in me when I was elected two years ago. I love this town, it is where I went to High School, and I will always consider Montgomery home. I am proud of our accomplishments as a Township Committee, especially the creation of Skillman Park."
Notes From The Township Administrator - October 2011
I thought it would be worthwhile to detail how the Township prepares for a significant weather event like the recent Hurricane Irene. Early in the last full week of August State and County Offices of Emergency Management informed municipalities of the possible threat of Hurricane Irene. Township staff tracked the path of the storm and when it became clear that the Township was under a significant threat we convened a meeting of our Local Emergency Planning Council. The L.E.P.C. includes Township Staff Including the Township Engineer, Police Director/Emergency Management Coordinator, Police Command Staff, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, Township Health Officer, Superintendent of Public Works, Township Administrator, the Township Public Information Officer, and Staff from the Recreation Department and representatives from the Montgomery EMS, Blawenburg and Belle Mead Volunteer Fire Departments.
Plans were made for the staging of equipment, staffing levels, communications, emergency shelter and post storm recovery. Representatives then returned to their respective organizations and took the necessary steps as directed in the meeting. As the threat of the hurricane became clearer over the next 24 hours a second meeting was convened Friday 8/26 to fine tune the Township's plan. Preparations having been completed all that was left to do was to wait.
Our Public Works employees reported for duty at midnight Sunday as the storm began to impact Montgomery. Almost simultaneously the Township activated it Emergency Operations Center located within the Police Department. As roads became impassable from flooding downed trees and power lines barricades that had been strategically placed around the Township were put in place to redirect traffic. Power was lost at the Municipal Building at approximately 3 am. Our emergency generator supplied power to allow the Operations Center to continue operations.
A swift water rescue was made at a home in close proximity to the Millstone River along River Road, as floodwaters engulfed a home before the homeowners could evacuate. Several motorists ignored barricades and drove into floodwaters necessitating the removal of the vehicles by tow truck. Public Works employees removed downed trees not on power lines to reopen roads. They also assisted Police Officers in getting to and from the Municipal building as the Cruser Brook flooding Rt. 206 rendering access to the Municipal Building impossible with any vehicle other than the Township's largest tandem dump trucks.
As daylight came, Irene began to lose some of its intensity, Township Staff was able to begin to send out e-bulletins updating road closures, the locations where potable water was available, as well as information from PSE&G regarding power outages. At one point during the storm over 80% of the Township was without power. By midday staff was travelling throughout the community assessing road conditions, tree damage, downed power lines, and damage to infrastructure. Township staff also responded to individuals who walked into the municipal building requesting information as they had no other way to communicate due to power and telephone outages.
During one trip around town our police discovered three residents who were trying to launch kayaks into the floodwaters of the Millstone River at the intersection of Belle Mead Griggstown Road and River Road. A crowd had gathered to observe and Police had to stop the kayakers from putting themselves at risk by trying to kayak in the flood. Not only was the water deep and churning, but it also contained significant debris as well as contaminants including untreated sewage from flooded wastewater treatment plants located upstream. By 4 p.m. on Sunday 8/26 the Township closed its Emergency Operations Center and started post event operations.
On Monday Morning the Municipal Building was closed to non-essential personal and recovery commenced. The Township Health Department informed all retail food establishments and grocery stores of their obligations to destroy food that was not refrigerated due to power outages. Public Works employees made temporary repairs to roads damaged by flooding including the entrance to town hall. Trees leaning and threatening to fall into township roads were cut down. Updates on power outages and road closures were sent out as e-bulletins. Police officers checked on residents with serious health problems that were at risk due to loss of power while simultaneously checking homes that had received flood damage. At the same time police officers were stationed at critical intersections along Rt. 206 to direct traffic until traffic could be reenergized and activated. Power slowly returned to neighborhoods over the next few days.
The Township made the decision to open its Container Facility at no charge to residents to allow them to dispose of flood damaged material and related debris. An overwhelming amount of material was received taking many days to be removed by our trash hauler. By Tuesday 8/30 the Municipal Building reopened and recovery operations continued. Township staff began to assess the costs of the damage to township infrastructure. An example of worst damage was the Stage II Wastewater Treatment Plant located on River Road South. The floodgates installed after Hurricane Floyd in 1999 were breached causing the plant to flood and fail. Repairs are estimated to be in excess of $300,000.
By the end of the week municipal operations were returning to normal. Montgomery was well prepared and did not suffer damage as serious as some of our neighboring municipalities. This is in part due to the excellent pre storm planning, dedication of the members of the Township staff, Volunteer Services and the support of the Township Committee.
I want to remind residents to please obey road closed barricades and signs, avoid high water, downed power lines and downed trees. This will ensure your safety as well as the safety of our police, firemen and women and EMS volunteers who otherwise might have to put themselves at risk to make a rescue.
Lastly, I want to thank all the Township Fire and Rescue Volunteers and Employees who spent countless hours working during and after Hurricane Irene. Without your planning, dedication and hard work the effects of the storm would have been devastating.
Montgomery Township Committee Activity Report June - August 2011
June 2, 2011 Consent Agenda: Passed resolutions to:
•Rectify past tax overpayments
•Issue permit, waive fire inspection fees and authorize closing of Skillman Road all in connection with the fireworks display
•Approve an outdoor assembly for Carrier Clinic Walk of Hope
•Request the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of revenue from the Highway Safety Fund Program - Safe Corridors Act, the Clean Communities Program, and Garden State Green Acres Trust Grant – Drake Acquisition into 2011 budget
•Oppose passage of A-3285 regarding public contract bid advertisements
•Reduce performance guarantee for Tusk Fusion Restaurant
•Execute a Second Amendment to Construction Sequence Agreement Village Shopper III
•Rescind contract award to James Molyneaux Co. for services, award a service agreement to Elite Restoration Inc. and amend resolution recognizing and accepting donated goods and services to reflect Elite Restoration Inc. in connection with Montgomery Veterans Memorial.
Actions:
•Introduced gift of property on Fairview, Servis and Hollow Roads from Thompson for open space
•Introduced appropriation of $100,000 for sewer equipment
•Introduced an ordinance amending deer management program
•Introduced appropriation of $47,200 for equipment and improvements
•Introduced bond ordinance of $903,911 for capital improvements and expenses
•Introduced bond ordinance of $5,095,000 for sewer utility improvements
•Authorized agreement to effect purchase of Skillman Village
•Authorized Dedication Skillman Village (NPDC) Demolition Project and Landfill Removal
•Authorized Resolution awarding contract for Skillman Village Building Demolition Project to Tricon Enterprise, Inc. for $1,818,850
•Appoint Susan Smith as Joint Insurance fund Alternate replacing Donato Nieman
June 16, 2011
Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to
•Refund N.J. American Water Co. for monies owed by the Township
•Accept donation from PNC Bank for Earth Day 2011 Fair
•Approval of Shared Services Partnership Agreement between Mercer County, Division of Public Health and Montgomery Township Health Department to release Maintenance Bond for Riverside Farms Section II in amount of $83,197 to Atlantic Realty
•Authorize Montgomery Tax Collector to prepare and mail 2011 estimated tax bills
•Establish a no-passing zone along entire length of Route 206 in Montgomery
Actions:
•Authorized bond ordinance of $903,911 for capital improvements and expenses
•Authorized bond ordinance of $5,095,000 for sewer utility improvements
•Concurred with Princeton Township’s award of bid to undertake and complete improvements to Cherry Valley Road and Hillside Avenue and pay $439,651 as its share of cost
•Authorized and directed to execute an agreement with Omni Environmental to provide professional engineering services to conduct a Wastewater Treatment Plant Consolidation Master Plan Study, fee not to exceed $67,450
•Authorized gift of property on Fairview, Servis and Hollow Roads from Thompson for open space
•Authorized appropriation of $100,000 for sewer equipment
•Authorized appropriation of $47,200 for equipment and improvements
•Authorized an ordinance amending deer management program
•Introduced an ordinance amending fire prevention fees
•Authorized renewal of ABC licenses for Bedens Brook Country Club, Cherry Valley Country Club, Montgomery Tennis Patrons Association (Nassau Racquet & Tennis Club), Princeton BPO Elks #2129, Steele Built LLC (Steele’s Wine Cellar), MTC Restaurant I, LLC, Princeton Innkeepers, Inc. (Tiger’s Tale), and Tusk LLC
July 7, 2011
Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to:
•Rectify tax past tax overpayments
•Refund N.J. American Water Co. for monies owed by the Township for private duty services •Grant an extension of time for the completion of various public improvement projects
Actions:
•Confirmed receipt of the Disaster Preparedness Assessment in addition to the Business Records Continuity Plans (BRCP) prepared by Access Systems per the contract with Somerset County
•Authorized Release documentation in favor of the State of New Jersey for utility expenses at the former NPDC Property in the amount of $31,852.
•Authorized contract with Donnelly Engineering Solutions for installation of energy improvements in certain township-owned structures, funded directly by federal and state grants and further authorize and appropriate #14,612.51 for installation of additional energy improvements to the municipal building by same contractor
•Authorized appointment of Sarah Roberts as Shade Tree Committee Advisor
•Authorized cost-sharing agreement with Montgomery Business Association to promote benefits of buying local in the Township, subject to approval of Township Attorney
•Authorized temporary closing of certain streets within Skillman Village
•Authorized renewal of ABC license for Yasotha Thillainathan
•Authorized sale of municipal personal property that is no longer needed
•Authorized ordinance amending Township code to establish new fee schedules for fire prevention registration, inspection, permit fees and smoke-sensitive alarm devices
July 21, 2011
Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to:
•Rectify tax past tax overpayments
•Refund unused portion of special duty to Montgomery Baseball League
•Authorize closing of Knickerbocker Lane on September 10 for a block party
•Authorizes application to 2011 Sustainable Jersey Small Grant to provide resources to make progress on sustainability issues
•Appoint Joseph Palmer as Safety Delegate and Lori Savron as Alternate Safety Delegate to Mid •Jersey Municipal Joint Insurance Fund
•Award bid for Crane Truck from Ransome International LLC in for $143,162
Actions:
•Authorized bid award to Asphalt Paving System, Inc. for $32,760 for chip sealing contract
•Authorized amendment to Extraordinary Unspecifiable Services Agreement with Elite Restoration to provide stone setting services in connection with the Montgomery Veterans Memorial, sum not to exceed $20,000
•Approved the transfer of Plenary Retail Distribution License from Yasotha Thillainathan to North East Wine, Inc.
•Introduced ordinances to amend Township Code to prohibit parking on certain streets, to designate no passing zones, to add speed limits on certain public roads, to designate stop intersections, to designate through streets and to delete references to public streets
August 4, 2011
Consent Agenda:
Passed resolutions to:
•Refund 2011 sewer charge paid in error and overpaid 2011 taxes
•Declare various Township-owned computer equipment as salvage
•Release Maintenance Guarantee for Pike Run, Phase XI
•Release Performance Guarantee to United Telephone Company of New Jersey – Switching Station Cabinet at Sunset Road/Route 206
•Release Performance Guarantee to Thompson Realty Co. of Princeton, Inc. for Planter’s View
•Authorize execution of a conservation and pedestrian easement to JER Herring Orchard LLC
•Request the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of revenue from the Recycling Tonnage Grant and 2011 Somerset County Youth Services into 2011 budget
•Designate Mark S. Anderson as hearing officer for the to conduct a hearing on a police department internal affairs matter
Actions:
•Authorized bid for Full Depth Reclamation of Mountainview Road to Asphalt Paving
Systems, Inc., in the amount of $55,000
•Awarded contract for the Skillman Village Coal Ash Material Beneficial Use/Disposal to AWT Environmental Services as the lowest responsible and responsive bidder
•Authorized ordinances to add mid-block crosswalks on Cook Drive, to prohibit parking on certain streets, to designate no passing zones, to add speed limits on certain public roads, to designate stop intersections, to delete references to public streets
August 22, 2011
Actions:
•Authorized a request to the Division of Fish and Wildlife to immediately cancel the rights to use propane cannons at the 585 County Rte. 518 and at 889 County Rte.
518
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