Last Updated: Jan 11th, 2012 - 11:55:09
COMMISSIONER WORK SESSION OF JUNE 1, 2009
The Work Session of June 1, 2009 was called to order at 5:00 p.m. and the open public notice announcement was read by the Borough Administrator. In attendance were Commissioner Colombi, Commissioner Borden and Commissioner Kasko, the Administrator, the Solicitor and the Borough Clerk.
No public comments were made.
The Administrator reviewed the June 9th Agenda. Specifically discussed were the RFP for Borough Solicitor services, as well as an ordinance regulating clothing bins. The Commissioners reviewed what types of restrictions can be included in such an ordinance.
The Commissioners agreed to advertise for the vacancies on the Zoning Board and the Human Relations Commission.
The Solicitor advised the Commissioners on whether or not to fill out the survey recently distributed by Bancroft NeuroHealth. Although this survey was distributed to the Commissioners as residents within the Borough, the Solicitor advised them to not complete this survey because their answers could later be mistaken for Borough policy.
The Administrator reviewed information regarding the shared services agreement with the Borough of Tavistock. Discussions ensued with regards to what services are provided per this agreement versus what services are not included. The Commissioners agreed that Commissioner Kasko and the Administrator will meet with the Mayor of Tavistock to begin negotiations on an updated shared services agreement. Commissioner Colombi suggested that the services not previously included in the agreement be incorporated into the new agreement.
The Sustainable Energy Meeting report received from the Borough’s JIF Representative was reviewed by the Commissioners. Questions were raised about what the actual level of savings would be. It was explained that this is a new program and there is no data available to be able to accurately respond to these questions. The Administrator noted that the Borough is currently a participant in a County program that involves a cost savings in natural gas usage only. It was pointed out that should the Commissioners decide to join the JIF program that the Borough would no longer be a part of this County program. The JIF program would include natural gas, as well as electric usage. At this time this program does not include the cost for street lights, which is the highest expense of these three items. Commissioner Colombi requested that the League of Municipalities be contacted for their opinion of this program. It was agreed that this program will be discussed at the next regularly scheduled work session.
After some discussion the Commissioners agreed to not endorse a sample resolution from the League of Municipalities requesting that the State amend the binding arbitration statute. Although the Commissioners expressed that the changes would be appropriate, they questioned what true impact such a resolution would have. Commissioner Colombi pointed out that the Borough very rarely adopts these types of resolutions.
Commissioner Borden gave an update on the Haddonfield Bicycle Route previously approved. Cross County Connection’s sign recommendations were reviewed. The Administrator advised that a small grant was awarded to the Borough in early 2008 to defray some of these costs. She will look into getting additional monies through this grant. Concerns were raised by both Commissioner Colombi and Commissioner Borden regarding the volume of signs recommended and the subsequent impact of “sign pollution.” It was agreed to continue discussions on this topic at the next regularly scheduled work session.
The Engineer’s report was then reviewed. The Administrator advised on the status of the PSE&G punch list for Colonial/Lake Streets. Street openings and subsequent patch work was discussed in general terms. The Commissioners agreed to not change the current cost for street opening permits until the Lake Street work is complete.
Commissioner Borden suggested that payments to the two contractors involved in a property damage claim by a resident on Chestnut Street be held until the contractors settle this issue with the resident. The Commissioners agreed.
The Commissioners agreed to have the Administrator call Congressman Andrews’ office in an effort to get the approval needed to start the Chestnut Street – Phase II project. This project must start soon so that it can be completed in time for school.
The Administrator informed the Commissioners on the status of the punch list for the Kings Court project. The concerns recently raised about the structure soundness of the gazebo were briefly discussed.
Commissioner Colombi advised on recent issues with children congregating in Kings Court and problems arising as a result. Commissioner Borden will discuss this with the Police Chief.
Commissioner Kasko asked about the status of the retaining wall problems at Public Works. The Administrator reviewed the project to-date.
The Commissioners agreed to continue to pay for the hotel expenses for the 2009 League of Municipalities Atlantic City Conference in November as this cost is already incorporated into the current budget.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Deanna Bennett
Borough Clerk
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