December 19, 2008 to January 2, 2009

NEW YEAR’S EVE FESTIVITIES
On December 31, Haddonfield will begin its second decade of sponsoring a family-oriented, alcohol-free First Night celebration of the arts on New Year’s Eve.
Once again, the organizing committee has put together a rich and varied (rain-or-shine) program of entertainment – a score of top-flight presentations at a dozen indoor venues throughout the downtown ... plus two fireworks displays (one at 9pm and one at midnight). The cost? Just $12.
Admission buttons are available at the Information Center (in Kings Court), Susquehanna Bank (30 Kings Highway E.), Professional Printing Services (116 Haddon Avenue N.), The Crepe and Ribbon (116 Kings Highway E.), Carl’s Haddonfield Service (Sunoco at 515 Haddon Avenue N.), and TD Bank (formerly Commerce Bank at 100 Haddon Avenue N.) Buttons are required for all but babes-in-arms.

LEAF COLLECTION – DONE!
The Public Works Department’s annual leaf collection program has been completed. Leaves will no longer be vacuumed from the curb. Residents and business owners who have leaves to be picked up by the Borough must now bag them and place them at the curb on their regular trash collection day.
The Commissioners thank all property owners for their cooperation during what was a difficult season. The volume of leaves seemed unusually large, and the Public Works Department struggled to cope with staffing and equipment difficulties. Even so, the program was completed satisfactorily.

FAIR SHARE HOUSING PLAN
During a special meeting on December 9, the Planning Board adopted an amendment to the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan of the Master Plan. Following that action, the Commissioners approved a resolution accepting the plan.
The Borough is now in a position to submit its Third Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan by December 31, as required by the NJ Council on Affordable Housing (COAH), and to request certification of its plan.
The Plan may be perused at the Public Library and in Room 101 of the Borough Hall. It may also be downloaded from the Borough Web site: www.haddonfield-nj.org.

BICYCLE, SKATEBOARD BAN DOWNTOWN
During their meeting on December 9, the Commissioners introduced an Ordinance that will BAN the riding of bicycles and skateboards in Kings Court and Hadrosaurus Lane (formerly known as Lantern Lane) – “for any reason, purpose or circumstance.” In those two locations, bicycles must be “walked” and skateboards must be carried.
Bicycles and skateboards may be ridden in other public places in the business district, but only as a means of transportation through the district – in other words, they may not be used for recreational purposes.
The Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed Ordinance during their meeting on Tuesday, December 23 (7:30pm in Room 102 of the Borough Hall).

MENORAH LIGHTING
The first candle of a menorah, located in the park in front of the Public Library, will be lit at 6pm on Tuesday, December 23. The organizers of the ceremony invite all members of the community to attend.

PREPARE FOR SNOW!
Residents who have permits to park overnight on streets and in Borough lots are urged to make arrangements NOW to park elsewhere when it snows. Otherwise, it is possible that their vehicles will be plowed in. That the Borough will not dig out plowed-in vehicles.

LIBRARY REFERENDUM ORDINANCE
During their meeting on December 9, the Commissioners held a Public Hearing on an ordinance, introduced on November 18, titled “Voter Approval for New Library Costs,” as required by the passage of a referendum question at the General Election on November 4. They subsequently voted to adopt it.

REQUESTS FOR BIDS AND PROPOSALS
The Borough has requested proposals for Advertising/Marketing and Public Relations Services. Proposals are due on Tuesday, December 30 by 3pm.
The Borough has invited bids for the supply of a Vacuum Leaf Collector (bids due on Thursday, January 8 by 10am) and a Pot-Hole Machine (bids due on Thursday, January 8 by 10:15am).
Copies of the bid and proposal documents may be obtained from the Borough Clerk, Borough Hall Room 101.
By acquiring its own pot-hole machine, the Public Works Department will be able to reduce the number of trips it typically makes to the asphalt plant and will be able to keep a larger supply of warm asphalt on hand. Since the machine will keep its contents warm for up to three days, the Department will have greater flexibility in how and when it fills holes.

WATER METERS ... AND BILLS
The townwide program to replace water meters is proceeding satisfactorily. Nearly 50% of meters in residences have been replaced. After each old meter is removed, a test is performed to determine whether or not the meter has been recording water usage accurately. As expected, some older meters have been under-recording water usage. The owners of properties with deficient meters are likely to see an increase in their water bills.
Speaking of water bills ... Some property owners who received water bills recently may have noticed that the due date on the bills was the same (give or take one day) as the date the bills were printed. This was an error. Those water bills are due on Tuesday, January 5 (not December 5).

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
The Borough has applied to participate in the National Incident Management System.
Apart from helping the Borough prepare to deal with emergencies, participation in the system qualifies the Borough to apply for federal grants for emergency management purposes.

December 5 to December 12, 2008

SERVING SENIORS
    Each year, a Thanksgiving Dinner is held at the Mabel Kay House for Haddonfield’s senior citizens. And each year, a number of students from the High School volunteer to serve the meal to the guests.
    Dory Mann, the Borough’s Senior Services Coordinator, reports that the dinner was “a huge success.” She thanks Chris Webb, of the PJ Whelihan’s, for the “delicious” food, and compliments HMHS students Jimmy Virden, Christian Sabelli, Catherine Kolaski, Bria Altieri, Michelle Carroll, Nicole Horbinski, and Evan Gooberman for their “efficient, kind, caring” service, delivered “with a smile.”
    “We could not have asked for more,” she said.

LIBRARY REFERENDUM ORDINANCE
    During their meeting on November 25, the Commissioners introduced an ordinance titled “Voter Approval for New Library Costs,” as required by the passage of a referendum question at the General Election on November 4.
    A Public Hearing on the proposed ordinance will be held during the Commissioners’ meeting on Tuesday, December 9 (7:30pm in the Borough Hall, Room 102.)

SHADE TREE TRIMMING
   ’Tis the season to trim trees – not just Christmas trees but trees on sidewalks throughout the town.
    The NJ Board of Public Utilities now requires PSE&G to trim trees every four years to maintain an appropriate distance between branches and power lines. The goal is to reduce the likelihood that electric service could be interrupted during bad weather. To satisfy that requirement, PSE&G has retained Asplundh to remove branches from trees throughout the Borough. The work is scheduled to begin in December.

SPECIAL PLANNING BOARD MEETING
    The Planning Board will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, December 9 (6:00pm in the Borough Hall auditorium) for a Public Hearing on its Third Round Plan based on the revised rules and regulations promulgated by the NJ Council on Affordable Housing (COAH). The agenda for the meeting will provide for a vote to adopt the Plan as a revision to the Master Plan Element, following the hearing.
    If the Board adopts the Plan, the Commissioners will consider accepting it during their meeting later that evening (7:30pm in Room 102). Haddonfield’s deadline for submitting its Third Round Plan is December 31.
    The proposed Plan may be perused in Room 101 of the Borough Hall. It may also be downloaded from the Borough’s Web site, www.haddonfieldnj.org.

GRANT FOR ROADWORKS
    The Borough has been advised that it will receive a $180,000 grant from the NJ Department of Transportation for the reconstruction of Redman Avenue, between Barberry Lane and West End Avenue. The work is likely to begin in the late spring.

NO THROUGH TRAFFIC!
    The Commissioners are asking residents to refrain from walking, running, jogging, and riding bicycles through the Public Works facility on Centre Street. The facility is in operation around-the-clock, with trash trucks, recycling trucks, and utility vehicles of various kinds coming and going at all times.
    For safety’s sake, walkers, runners, joggers, and bicyclists should use routes that do not pass through the Public Works facility.

FIRST NIGHT IS COMING!
    During their meeting on November 25, the Commissioners authorized the holding of pyrotechnic displays on New Year’s Eve as part of the Borough’s First Night celebration of the arts. The first, designed for families with young children, will be at around 9:00pm; the second will be at midnight.
    Admission buttons for First Night are available at the Information Center (in Kings Court), Susquehanna Bank (30 Kings Highway E.), Professional Printing Services (116 Haddon Avenue N.), The Crepe and Ribbon (116 Kings Highway E.), Carl’s Haddonfield Service (Sunoco at 515 Haddon Avenue N.), and TD Bank (formerly Commerce Bank at 100 Haddon Avenue N.) Buttons are $12 and are required for all but babes-in-arms.

UPDATE ON RENOVATIONS AT MABEL KAY HOUSE
    The Borough has approved a change order to the contract under which a new elevator is being installed, along with a handicap-accessible bathroom, a kitchenette, and storage closets on the second floor. Under the order, the floor finish on part of the second floor will be wood, rather than carpet, and a small section of roof will be replaced.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
    Work on Chestnut Street, Westminster Avenue, Colonial Avenue, and Lake Street has been completed, except for “punch list” items. Residents on those streets who have questions or concerns should contact Charles Chelotti or Steve Fini at Remington and Vernick, our municipal engineers.
    The Commissioners thank those who live and work on and in the vicinity of these streets for their cooperation during the course of these complex and lengthy projects.

APPOINTMENTS
    During their meeting on November 25, the Commissioners authorized the hiring of special legal counsel, George N. Styliades, for recently reopened litigation related to the Buzby Brothers Landfill. Various towns (including Haddonfield) are involved because the current owner of the site claims they are responsible for certain costs related to the closing of the landfill.

LEAVES, LEAVES, LEAVES
    Note that leaf season ends on trash pick-up day during the week beginning Monday, December 8. After December 12, leaves should be placed in green vegetative bins, or in regular bins with yellow stickers attached.

November 21 to November 28, 2008

THANKSGIVING
    Borough offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 for the Thanksgiving holiday.
    The Public Library will be closed on Thursday, but will be open its regular hours on Wednesday and Friday (10am to 9pm). The Information Center will be closed on Thursday and will be open for extended hours on Friday (12n to 9pm), for Candlelight Shopping.
    Thursday’s trash, recycling, and leaf collection will be postponed to Friday. Friday’s collection will be postponed to Saturday.

TREE LIGHTING AND SANTA PARADE
    The Celebrations Association is inviting all members of the community to the lighting of the Holiday Tree at the Public Library on Friday, November 28 at 6:30pm. A parade to Kings Court will follow. Santa Claus will receive children’s holiday wishes and the Pick-Up Band will play seasonal selections.
    A menorah to be erected in front of the Library will be lit on Tuesday, December 23 at 6pm.

KINGS COURT UPDATE
    Passers-by notice new features almost daily. The paving has been substantially completed, the new driveway apron for the CVS parking lot has been poured, and trees were planted recently. The focus is now on the gazebo.
    It is expected that the majority of the work will have been completed by Thanksgiving and that the Court will be fully functional for the arrival of Santa Claus and Candlelight Shopping. The installation of lighting has been delayed. Landscaping work will be undertaken in the spring, as planned.

TOWN FORUM: PUBLIC LIBRARY
    The Civic Association’s Town Forum on November 11 – “Libraries 2.0: Are community libraries obsolete in the 21st century?” – was well attended.
    The presenter, Steven Bell, demonstrated in a number of ways that libraries are not only alive and well, but that the scope of their services is becoming broader than “just books.” His presentation may be downloaded in PDF form from stevenbell.info. Click on “Presentations,” then “Library 2.0: About More Than Books.”

RECYCLING UPDATE
    The Borough has used the $25,000 it was awarded by the County Freeholders (for having the highest per capita recycling tonnage in Camden County in 2007) to purchase recycling cans for the business district, to accept glass, plastic, aluminum, and tin bottles and cans. The cans will be installed in December.
    Although the County now accepts comingled recyclables, Haddonfield will maintain its separated collection system until its existing vehicles need to be replaced. Residents have responded well to the new multi-bin system, significant money is being saved by diverting recyclables from the trash stream, and the Commissioners are optimistic that Haddonfield will be a leading contender for the County’s award for 2008.

NEW FIREFIGHTER SWORN IN
    During their meeting on November 10, the Commissioners accepted the application of Thomas Gargano for membership in Haddon Fire Company No. 1. In swearing him in, Commissioner Borden noted that Mr. Gargano – a senior at Haddonfield Memorial High School – is a second-generation member of the Company and that he is a graduate of the Company’s Explorer Program, which provides interested youth with opportunities to learn about fire prevention and fire fighting, with a view to developing a lifelong interest.

WELL REPAIR
    During their meeting on November 10, the Commissioners authorized the awarding of a contract for repairs to Well No 1, located in the vicinity of Reillywood Avenue and Chestnut Street.
    The contract, for $138,650, was awarded to Layne Christensen Company of Beverly. It is expected that work will begin in December.

ENERGY AUDIT PROGRAM
    The Office of Clean Energy, a unit of the NJ Board of Public Utilities, administers a program designed to help local government agencies to conduct energy audits and to encourage implementation of energy conservation measures.
    During their meeting on November 10, the Commissioners authorized the submission of an application for participation in the program. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION
    • Chestnut Street – Paving has been delayed because routine tests carried out by PSE&G detested a leak in the newly laid gas pipes. The issue is being addressed.
    The second phase of this project – from East Park Avenue to Lincoln Avenue – will begin in the spring. This will include utility work and a raised speed-table at the Chestnut/Lincoln intersection.

WATER METER REPLACEMENT
    The townwide project to replace all water meters is well under way, and is approaching 20% complete. The contractor has been making “cold calls” in the first section of town, installing meters when homeowners were home and leaving cards when no one was present. (The cards ask homeowners to call or visit a Web site to set up an appointment. Time slots are available during the day and evenings, and on weekends.)
    It is anticipated that meters in most homes in town will have been replaced by the end of the year.

FIRST NIGHT BUTTONS
    Admission buttons for First Night, Haddonfield’s family-oriented celebration of the arts on New Year’s Eve – are now available at the Information Center. Buttons, which cost $10 until November 30; $12 in December, are available at the Information Center.

November 7 to November 21, 2008

VETERAN’S DAY
    Borough offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, in observance of Veteran’s Day. Except ... the Borough Hall will be open in the evening for the Town Forum sponsored by the Civic Association. The Public Library (10am to 9pm) and the Information Center (12n to 4pm) will both be open. Trash, recycling, and leaf collection will take place as scheduled.
    The Commissioners encourage residents and business owners to attend the Veteran’s Day observance at the High School on November 11, beginning at 11am. The ceremony will be conducted by members of American Legion Post 38.

LEAVES, LEAVES, LEAVES!
    Public Works Department crews are now picking up leaves that have been raked to the curb. Collection days will usually coincide with trash/recycling days. Please:
    • Rake leaves as close to your collection day as possible.
    • Do not rake leaves into the street, or within 10 feet of a stormwater inlet. State law requires the Borough to issue citations to the owners of properties where leaves have been placed in the street. Homeowners who use landscape contractors to remove leaves from their properties should note that it is the property owner – not the contractor – who may be fined.
    • Do not put leaves in plastic bags.
    The chipper truck has been converted to a leaf truck, so vegetative waste is now being collected as trash. Brush and small branches should be cut, bundled and put out on your trash day – but NOT on top of piles of leaves! The chipper truck will be reconverted at the end of leaf season.

HALLOWEEN PARADE A SUCCESS, BUT ...
    The Commissioners thank the Celebrations Association for once again organizing the annual Halloween Parade.
    They echo the Association’s concerns, however, about a toy that was given to children at the end of the parade. The toy was a light-up eyeball that floats in a liquid inside a hard plastic ball. If the ball breaks opens, the liquid – a mixture of 52% baby oil and 48% mineral spirits – may flow out. The Celebrations Association has urged parents to retrieve the toy and disposed of it.
    The Commissioners also express their appreciation to the members of the Police and Fire Departments and Police Auxiliary for their assistance.

TOWN FORUM: PUBLIC LIBRARY
    The Commissioners encourage all interested parties to attend the Civic Association’s Town Forum on Tuesday, November 11. It will be held in the Borough Hall auditorium, starting at 7:30pm. The topic will be “Libraries 2.0: Are community libraries obsolete in the 21st century?”

POLICE CAR FOR SALE
    The Borough has listed a 2003 Ford Crown Victoria for sale by auction on GovDeals.com.

ELEVATOR UPDATE
    Work is proceeding at the Mabel Kay House to install an elevator that will facilitate access to the upper levels.
    A new bathroom, kitchenette, and closet on the top floor are under construction; all interior work is expected to be completed by the first week of December. The construction of an access ramp is expected to be completed by the end of the first week of November. The elevator itself is due to be installed in mid-December and to be in operation by mid-January.

KINGS COURT UPDATE
    At the time this edition of Municipal Matters was prepared, construction was on schedule for a planned completion date of November 18. Brick paving at the front section of the court was substantially completed and work had begun on concrete curbing and brick walls at the Ellis/Centre Street end of the court.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION
    • Chestnut Street – The base paving has been completed. There are several soft spots, however, so the contractor will wait until the second week of November – depending on the weather – to lay the top coat of paving. The extra time should allow the base to settle.
    • Westminster Avenue – Excavation began on October 28 and work is proceeding. The top course is scheduled to be laid during the week of November 10.
    • Colonial Avenue – Excavation has been completed. The top course is scheduled to be laid during the third week of November.

WATER METER REPLACEMENT
    The townwide project to replace all water meters is under way. The contractor has been making “cold calls” in the first section of town, installing meters when homeowners were home and leaving cards when no one was present. (The cards ask homeowners to call or visit a Web site to set up an appointment. Time slots are available during the day and evenings, and on weekends.)
    It is anticipated that meters in most homes in town will have been replaced by the end of the year.

LEAF DISPOSAL AUTHORIZED
    During their meeting on October 28, the Commissioners authorized the Public Works Department to use a facility operated by the Gloucester Township Municipal Utilities Authority for the purpose of disposing leaves for composting. The cost to the Borough will be $3 per cubic yard.

WOOD CHIPS AVAILABLE
    The remnants of trees that have been chipped are available to residents for use in their garden beds. For details, call the Public Works Department at 429-0183.

October 24 to November 07, 2008

ELECTION DAY
    Borough offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 4, for Election Day. The Borough Hall will be open, however, since it is a polling place.
    The Public Library (10am to 9pm) and the Information Center (12n to 4pm) will both be open.
    Note: Public Schools will be closed for the week beginning Monday, November 3, but those that are used as polling places will be open on November 4.

LEAF COLLECTION IS UNDER WAY
    Public Works Department crews are now picking up leaves that have been raked to the curb. Collection days will usually coincide with trash/recycling days. Please:
    • Rake leaves as close to your collection day as possible.
    • Do not rake leaves into the street, or within 20 feet of a stormwater inlet.
    • Do not put leaves in plastic bags.
    The chipper truck has been converted to a leaf truck, so vegetative waste is now being collected as trash. Brush and small branches should be cut, bundled and put out on your trash day – but NOT on top of piles of leaves! The chipper truck will be reconverted at the end of leaf season.

FALL FESTIVAL AN UNQUALIFIED SUCCESS
    The Borough’s annual Fall Festival provides community organizations with an opportunity to set up displays on the Kings Highway sidewalks to publicize their activities, recruit members, and sell their merchandise.
    Along with the Crafts Show on Tanner Street, the October 18 event brought thousands of residents and visitors to the downtown business district. Coinciding with Fall Festival were a celebration of the 150th anniversary of the unearthing of dinosaur bones in Haddonfield in 1858 and the 125th anniversary of the establishment of a special-needs school that is now known as Bancroft NeuroHealth.
    The Commissioners thank all who helped make the day such an unqualified success, and express their appreciation to the staff of the Information Center, and to the members of the Police and Fire Departments and Police Auxiliary.

LANTERN LANE RENAMED
    Top mark the 150th anniversary of the unearthing of dinosaur bones in Haddonfield in 1858 and in recognition of the significance of that discovery in shaping the understanding of the nature of dinosaurs, the Commissioners have authorized the re-naming of Lantern Lane. It is now Hadrosaurus Lane. “Haddy Lane” will be a perfectly acceptable variation.

AUTHORIZATIONS
    During their meeting on October 14, the Commissioners authorized the Cultural Events Commission to use sidewalks and other public areas for First Night. They also authorized a moratorium on overnight parking on New Year’s Eve.

BOND ORDINANCE
    During their meeting on October 14, the Commissioners adopted a bond ordinance that will provide funds for the redrilling the well Reillywood Avenue and Chestnut Street. They also authorized the advertising for bids, which will be due on Thursday, November 6 at 10am.

APPOINTMENTS
    During their meeting on September 23, the Commissioners
    • Authorized the appointment of Holman & Frenia PC to serve as Borough Auditors. In response to a request for proposals, the Borough received submissions from four firms, including the company that has served as Auditor for many years. The Holman & Frenia’s bid was significantly less than that of the others.
    • Accepted the application of Andrew Moran for membership in Haddon Fire Company No. 1.

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
    During their meeting on October 14, the Commissioners authorized the awarding of the following contracts:
    • Tree Removal Services – to Lyon & Son Tree Service of Barrington. The contract, valued at $28,850, covers the removal of 45 dead and dying trees.
    • Temporary Labor Services – to Global Staffing Services of Trenton for utility and sanitation laborers, and drivers/laborers. The Borough draws on these services at various times, including during leaf season, for example.
    • Fire House Driveway Apron – to Paramount Enterprises of Cherry Hill. The contract, valued at $18,026, covers the replacement of part of the driveway apron in front of the Fire House.
    The Commissioners authorized the signing of an agreement with the County under which the Borough will plough snow from County roads in Haddonfield. (Some examples: Kings Highway, Grove Street, Maple Avenue, Warwick Road, Chews Landing Road, Potter Street.) In exchange, the County will pay the Borough $200 per mile per storm to cover the cost of purchasing salt.

TRICK-OR-TREATING ... AND PARADE
    The Halloween Parade, sponsored each year by the Celebrations Association, will be held this year on Friday, October 31 – NOT on October 30, as has often been the case in past years. Those wishing to participate should assemble at the Presbyterian Church at 6pm, for a 6:30pm start. The parade proceeds along Kings Highway to the Borough Hall parking lot.
    The Police Chief recommends that parents limit their children’s trick-or-treating activities to Friday, October 31 from 2pm to sunset.

TOWN FORUM
    The Commissioners encourage all interested parties to attend the Civic Association’s Town Forum on Tuesday, November 11. It will be held in the Borough Hall auditorium, starting at 7:30pm. The topic will be “Libraries 2.0: Are community libraries obsolete in the 21st century?”

October 10 to October 24, 2008

COLUMBUS DAY HOLIDAY
    Borough offices will be closed on Monday, October 13, in observance of Columbus Day.
    Monday’s trash and recycling collection will be postponed to Tuesday.
    The Public Library (10am to 9pm) and the Information Center (12n to 4pm) will both be open.
    Police, fire, ambulance, and emergency water and sewer services will be available around-the-clock, as usual.

LEAF SEASON STARTS ON OCTOBER 20
    The Public Works Department will pick up leaves that have been raked to the curb from Monday, October 20 thru Friday, December 12. Collection days will usually coincide with trash/recycling days.
    Please:
    • Rake leaves as close to your collection day as possible.
    • Do not rake leaves into the street, or within 20 feet of a storm water inlet.
    • Do not put leaves in plastic bags.
    Note that at this time of year the chipper truck is converted to a leaf truck, so vegetative waste that needs to be chipped should be put out on your trash day in the week beginning Monday, October 13. After Friday, October 17, brush and small branches should be cut, bundled and put out with trash and recycling – but NOT on top of piles of leaves! The chipper truck will be reconverted at the end of leaf season.

NEW WATER METERS ARE COMING
    The Borough recently awarded a contract for the replacement of water meters throughout the town.
    Beginning in mid-October, the contractor – National Metering Service – will mail postcards to property owners (residential, business, commercial, and institutional), advising of the dates when their representatives will visit to replace the meters. If no one is in attendance when the contractor visits, the representative will leave a yellow card that gives instructions for scheduling an appointment.
    This is a town wide project. ALL meters must be replaced. The Commissioners therefore ask property owners to cooperate fully with the contractor so that their work will be as efficient and as least-intrusive as possible. Appointments will be available in the evenings and on Saturdays, in addition to regular weekdays.
    Once the new meters are in place, it will no longer be necessary for Borough representatives to visit properties individually to read meters. It will be possible for the Borough to complete readings for the entire town in less than four hours.
    Note that representatives of National Metering Service will have photo identification. Property owners are encouraged to ask for that identification, and to call Charles Chelotti of Remington & Vernick – 795-9595 – if they have questions or concerns.

HYDRANT FLUSHING
    The Public Works Department’s annual hydrant flushing program is under way. The section of town west of the Speedline was scheduled to be completed on October 10.
    Hydrants in the section north of Kings Highway and east of the Speedline are scheduled to be flushed between October 14 and 17. Those south of the Highway and east of the Speedline are scheduled to be flushed between October 21 and 24.
    During and for a short time after flushing, water may be discolored. You should let cold water spigots run until the water runs clear. DO NOT run your washing machine until the water is clear.
    Questions or concerns? Call 429-0183.

BOND ORDINANCE
    A problem arose recently with the well in the vicinity of Reillywood Avenue and Chestnut Street. Sand had begun to infiltrate the system, so the well was shut down. An inspection revealed that the problem can be solved by redrilling the well.
    During their meeting on September 23, the Commissioners introduced a bond ordinance to cover the cost of redrilling the well. The amount is $320,000. The Commissioners are scheduled to vote during their meeting on October 14 on a resolution authorizing the advertising for bids.

APPLICATION FOR OPEN SPACE GRANT
    During their meeting on September 23, the Commissioners authorized the submission of an application to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection for a grant in the amount of $389,375 from the Green Acres Program.
    The money, if received, would be used to purchase property that otherwise might be sold for development. Since this is a matching grant, the Environmental Commission is pursuing various other sources of funds in order that a total of $778,750 would be available for the desired purposes. The State of NJ has not reauthorized this grant program, so it may be that this is the last time such monies are available.
    Note that revenue from the annual Open Space tax levy is not included in this project.

VOTING REGISTRATION DEADLINE
    Residents who are not registered to vote in Haddonfield are reminded that the deadline is Tuesday, October 14. The registration form can be downloaded at www.camdencounty.com.
    Applications for Absentee Ballots can be downloaded from that site also.

FOLLOW THE DINO TRACKS!
    In the days leading up to Fall Festival (Saturday, October 18) dinosaur footprints will appear on streets and sidewalks in the Estates Section. Dinophiles are encouraged to follow them from the ravine at the end of the 300 block of Maple Avenue, along Grove Street to Kings Highway, then along the Highway to Lantern Lane, where Haddy now stands.

September 26 to October 10, 2008

LIBRARY REFERENDUM
    Some weeks ago, the Commissioners received a petition asking that a question concerning the construction of a new public library be placed on the ballot for voter approval in November.
    The proposed question is actually a “referendum to have a referendum.” If it is approved by the voters in November, a second referendum would be required in order for the Borough to spend funds on the planning for and construction of a new public library.
    The petition was in an appropriate form had been signed by more than the required minimum number of registered voters. Therefore, during their meeting on September 9, the Commissioners formally accepted the petition. They subsequently requested the County Clerk to place the question on the ballot in November.

PROCLAMATIONS
    The Commissioners were scheduled to issue proclamations during their meeting on September 23 in recognition of Walk to School Week (October 5 thru 10) and Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October).

BIDS FOR TREE REMOVAL, TEMORARY LABOR
    The Borough is seeking bids for the removal of 45 trees that are dead or dying. Bids are due on October 9 at 10:00am.
    The Borough is seeking bids for the provision of temporary labor required from time to time by the Public Works Department. Bids are due on October 9 at 10:15am.

REGISTER FOR FALL FESTIVAL ... NOW!
    Community groups that wish to participate in Fall Festival are urged to contact the Information Center without delay to register: call 216-7253.
    Fall Festival provides an annual opportunity for Haddonfield community organizations to set up sidewalk exhibits along Kings Highway to publicize their activities, recruit members, and sell merchandise.
    Exhibits of country crafts will be set up along Tanner Street.

ALSO DURING FALL FESTIVAL ...
    The Borough will officially celebrate the 150th anniversary of the unearthing of an almost-complete skeleton of a “bulky lizard” (hadrosaurus) from a ravine at the end of Maple Avenue. A subsequent description of the skeleton by Joseph Leidy of the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia changed the scientific community’s understanding of the nature of dinosaurs, and put Hadrosaurus foulkii – and Haddonfield – on the map.
    Look for details of the anniversary celebrations in the October 10 issue of What’s On. LIBRARY REFERENDUM
    Some weeks ago, the Commissioners received a petition asking that a question concerning the construction of a new public library be placed on the ballot for voter approval in November.
    The proposed question is actually a “referendum to have a referendum.” If it is approved by the voters in November, a second referendum would be required in order for the Borough to spend funds on the planning for and construction of a new public library.
    The petition was in an appropriate form had been signed by more than the required minimum number of registered voters. Therefore, during their meeting on September 9, the Commissioners formally accepted the petition. They subsequently requested the County Clerk to place the question on the ballot in November.

PROCLAMATIONS
    The Commissioners were scheduled to issue proclamations during their meeting on September 23 in recognition of Walk to School Week (October 5 thru 10) and Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October).

BIDS FOR TREE REMOVAL, TEMORARY LABOR
    The Borough is seeking bids for the removal of 45 trees that are dead or dying. Bids are due on October 9 at 10:00am.
    The Borough is seeking bids for the provision of temporary labor required from time to time by the Public Works Department. Bids are due on October 9 at 10:15am.

REGISTER FOR FALL FESTIVAL ... NOW!
    Community groups that wish to participate in Fall Festival are urged to contact the Information Center without delay to register: call 216-7253.
    Fall Festival provides an annual opportunity for Haddonfield community organizations to set up sidewalk exhibits along Kings Highway to publicize their activities, recruit members, and sell merchandise.
    Exhibits of country crafts will be set up along Tanner Street.

ALSO DURING FALL FESTIVAL ...
    The Borough will officially celebrate the 150th anniversary of the unearthing of an almost-complete skeleton of a “bulky lizard” (hadrosaurus) from a ravine at the end of Maple Avenue. A subsequent description of the skeleton by Joseph Leidy of the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia changed the scientific community’s understanding of the nature of dinosaurs, and put Hadrosaurus foulkii – and Haddonfield – on the map.
    Look for details of the anniversary celebrations in the October 10 issue of What’s On.

CONTRACTS AWARDED
    The Commissioners were scheduled, during their meeting on September 23, to award a contract for painting at the Borough Hall to Alpine Painting and Sandblasting of Patterson. The contract amount is $28,800.
    Also scheduled: a contract for the video inspection of sanitary sewer mains to Video Pipe Services of Newfield. The contract provides for a maximum expenditure of $52,550, on an as-needed unit basis.

ROADWORKS AND OTHER CONSTRUCTION
    • Colonial and Lake – Utility work has been completed and it is expected that road reconstruction was scheduled to begin on September 23. During their meeting on September 9, the Commissioners awarded a contract for that work, valued at $348,282, to Marandino Concrete Co of Vineland.
    • Westminster – Utility work has been completed. The construction of required concrete curbs and aprons is expected to begin on September 29, followed by road reconstruction.
    • Chestnut – Concrete work on two of the three blocks has been completed. Work on the third block is expected to be completed by mid-October. Road reconstruction will follow.
    • Kings Court – Utility work has been completed. Work on the hardscape was scheduled to begin after September 22 and to be completed in mid-November.
    • Mabel Kay House – The foundations for the elevator have been poured; work is continuing on schedule.

APPOINTMENTS
    • Alvin Schomer, the founding chairman of the Human Relations Commission, has stepped down. The Commissioners have appointed another longtime member, Leah McGarry Morris to serve as chair. The Commissioners thank Al Schomer for his long and devoted service.
    • Beverly Lloyd-Aldeghi has moved from Haddonfield. Her place on the District Management Corporation has been taken by Doug Rauschenberger.
    The Commissioners have made the following appointments:
    • George Cox as Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator.
    • To represent the Civic Association on the Municipal Alliance: Brett Harrison.
    • To represent the Elementary School PTA’s on the Municipal Alliance: Tracy Noone, Pamela Strobel, and Maria DeSimone (rotating attendance, with one vote); Middle School PTA: Ellen Stone and Rosemary LaMaina (ditto); High School PTA: Sarah Tambussi and Susan Warner (ditto).
    • Maryanne Bigelow to the Senior Citizen Advisory Board.
    • Linda McLaughlin to the Recreation Council, filling the unexpired term of Robert Fitzgerald.
    The Commissioners thank Beverly Lloyd-Aldeghi and Robert Fitzgerald for their service and their contributions to our community.

September 12 to September 26, 2008

ANTIQUE AUTO SHOW: SEPTEMBER 13
The Ankokas Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America will hold its annual Antique Auto Show on Saturday, September 13 11am to 4pm on Kings Highway (If rain: Saturday, September 20.) Kings Highway will be closed between Haddon Avenue and the Speedline from 8am to 5pm.

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
During their meeting on August 27, the Commissioners appointed the following students to the Municipal Alliance: Emily Gorndt (High School Student Council President) and Zoe Nahatis (High School Student Council representative); Will Brown and Morgan Sehdev (Middle School Student Council Co-Presidents) and Shana Blackman (Middle School Student representative).

KINGS COURT UPDATE
After some minor revisions to the plans and specifications and a second bidding process, the Commissioners awarded the Kings Court Hardscape Construction project to Bud Concrete of Sewell. The contract amount is $432,631.
The project was expected to begin during the week of September 8 and will run in conjunction with the completion of the Kings Court utility project.

TRASH CAN ALERT
The Public Works Department reminds residents and business owners that the weight limit for individual trash cans is 50 pounds. Cans are picked up manually, and 50 pounds is the maximum that can be lifted by one person safely. Cans weighing more than that will not be emptied.

COMING: LIBRARY BOOK SALE
Mark you calendar for the annual “Books & Things” sale sponsored by the Haddonfield Friends of the Library. It will be held on the Library lawn on Saturday, September 20 from 10am to 3pm. If rain: Sunday, September 21 from 12n to 5pm.

LEAF ALERT
The Commissioners remind residents and business owners that Leaf Season is right around the corner.
Since the chipper machine is not operated during leaf season, brush and small branches to be disposed of during Leaf Season should be cut, bundled and put out with trash and recycling. Please do not place brush and branches on top of piles of leaves!

COMING: NEW WATER METERS
Many of the water meters in homes and businesses in Haddonfield are more than 20 years or older. As meters age, they slow down and do not provide accurate readings. (This can begin after 15 years, depending on the type of meter.) Since slow meters fail to account for all the water that runs through the system, it is necessary for the Borough to replace meters from time to time to ensure that users are billed accurately.
During the past five years, more than 700 new meters have been installed in residences and business premises throughout the Borough. Each is equipped with a radio transmitter that will enable it to be read remotely.
On August 26, the Commissioners awarded a contract for the installation of meters in the more than 3,700 homes and business premises that do not have the new type of meter. Once all of the new meters have been installed, it will be possible to complete the reading process for the entire town in less than four hours. It will also be possible to detect water leaks at individual locations. (The Borough will advise property owners when leaks are detected.)
The contract was awarded to National Metering Services of Kearny NJ. Installation is expected to begin in early October. The contractor will mail notices to the owners of properties where new meters are to be installed, asking each owner to specify a convenient time for the installation of the new meter.

ATTENTION SENIOR CITIZENS
A number of Haddonfield senior citizens who claimed property tax deductions on their NJ income tax returns have been sent requests for additional information. Some have complied, but others have not. A second request is “in the mail.”
Those who do not furnish the required information are likely to be denied the deduction for the past four years. The state will look to the Borough to pay the amounts that have been denied; the Borough, in turn, will bill the resident.
Senior citizens who receive the second request for information are urged to respond to it without delay.

PRESENTATION ON DANGERS OF DRUGS
With the cooperation with the Municipal Alliance, the Civic Association is sponsoring a program by local therapist Mimi Sullivan titled “How to Prevent Recreational Drugs & Alcohol from Interrupting Potential and Stealing the Dream.”
Date: Monday, October 6. Time: 7pm. Place: Borough Hall auditorium. All are encouraged to attend.

August 29 to September 12, 2008

Monday’s trash and recycling collection will be postponed to Tuesday. Business owners are reminded that they should not put Friday and weekend trash and recycling out for collection until after 5pm on Monday night.

Police, fire, ambulance, and emergency water and sewer services will be provided around-the-clock, as usual.

NEW POLICE OFFICER
The Borough welcomes Officer Phillip DePietro, a recent graduate of the Gloucester County Police Academy, to our Police Department. Officer DePietro’s hiring has enabled the Department to maintain its Patrol Division at full strength.

PROPERTY TAXES ARE DUE ON SEPTEMBER 5
Property owners are reminded:
• That the extended due date for payment of third quarter taxes is Friday, September 5. Payments may be made in person in Room 105 of the Borough Hall up until 4:30pm on that date.
• Payments may also be made online, by electronic check, via the Borough’s Web site: www.haddonfieldnj.org. On the left side, under “Borough Departments,” click on “Pay your taxes online.”
• That if taxes are not paid by September 5, interest will be charged from the original due date (August 1).

BUSINESS DISTRICT PROMOTES FIRST FRIDAYS
The Partnership for Haddonfield will introduce a new promotion on September 5 – “First Friday” – and is encouraging residents and out-of-town visitors to “enjoy the work of regional and national artists, live music, fabulous dining, and extended shopping hours” on the first Friday of each month.

For details, visit www.haddonfieldnj.org.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR FOR 2008-09
Haddonfield’s annual town calendar has been mailed to all residential and business addresses. Residents and business owners who did not receive their copy should contact the Post Office. Additional copies are available at the Borough Hall and the Information Center in Kings Court. The cost is $7 each.

The Commissioners thank all involved in the project: the PTA’s, the staff of the Information Center, the designer (Podgor Design Studio), and especially those whose willing and generous participation makes this valued publication possible – the sponsors and contributors.

REDEVELOPMENT ATTORNEY APPOINTED
The agenda for the Commissioners’ meeting of August 26 included authorization for the signing of an agreement for professional services with McManimon & Scotland, attorneys, for legal advice in implementing the provisions of the designation of the Bancroft property as an area in need of redevelopment.

The firm has served in this capacity in the past.

FALL FESTIVAL: APPLY NOW!
Representatives of Haddonfield community organizations are encouraged to apply now to participate in Haddonfield’s annual Fall Festival, to be held in the downtown business district this year on Saturday, October 18.

Fall Festival is an opportunity for community organizations to set up sidewalk exhibits along Kings Highway to publicize their activities, recruit members, and sell merchandise.

Exhibits of country crafts will be set up along Tanner Street.

Application forms for participation by community groups, crafters, and out-of-town food purveyors are available at the Information Center. For more information, call 856-216-7253.

WANNA BUY A BIKE?
The Borough will hold a public auction of surplus and unclaimed property – including 29 bicycles and one motor scooter – on Saturday, September 27. The auction will be held at the Public Works Department facility on Centre Street, beginning at 10am. The items to be auctioned may be inspected after 9am.

CCMUA WORK TO BEGIN SOON
On August 18, the Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority (CCMUA) approved plans for work on its pump station at Longwood Drive (which will be eliminated) and at Coles Mill Road (which will be refurbished).

Phase 1 of the work includes the installation of a gravity line along Coles Mill Road, from Cedar Avenue to the bridge. Phase 2 involves the installation of new sewer lines connecting to the main, and a change of direction of ?ow.

Residents in the area will be advised by letter of the details of the project, and of the proposed construction schedule.

ROADWORKS (ETC) UPDATE
• Chestnut Street: The installation of concrete curbs and driveway aprons was scheduled to begin during the week of Monday, August 25. Reconstruction of the road surface will follow and is expected to be completed in November.
• Colonial Avenue: It is expected that utility work will be completed during the second week of September. The agenda for the Commissioners’ meeting on August 26 includes authorization to advertise for bids for road paving. Bids are due September 9.
• Westminster Avenue: Utility work has begun.
• Kings Court: The installation of a new sewer manhole near the gazebo, with related piping, has been completed. After the trenches have been paved over, the installation of a new storm sewer will begin.
• Mabel Kay House: The installation of an elevator was scheduled to begin during the week of Monday, August 25.

NEW BOOK: “HADDONFIELD”
The Commissioners congratulate the Historical Society, and especially the Borough’s historians, Kathy Tassini and Doug Rauschenberger, on the publication of a new and profusely illustrated book about the history of Haddonfield. Copies are available at the Information Centre and Greenfield Hall.

August 1 to August 29, 2008

MUNICIPAL BUDGET ADOPTED
During their meeting on July 22, the Commissioners adopted the Municipal Budget for 2008.
The budget projects $13,839,793 in revenue, from three main sources:
• Surplus (inc. deferred school taxes) $ 2,320,000
• Miscellaneous Revenue (inc. state aid) $ 2,981,820
• Local Purpose (Borough) Taxes $ 8,537,973
The main categories of expenditure are:
• Operating expenses $ 10,748,348
• Miscellaneous (inc. debt service) $ 1,943,830
• Reserve for uncollected taxes $ 1,147,615
Although the Operating Budget has increased by approximately 3.97%, daily operating expenses have been held to a 1.16% increase.
The local purpose (Borough) tax rate for 2008 will be 37.75¢ per $100 of assessed valuation. This is an increase of 2.11¢ (5.92%) over the rate for 2007. The owner of a property assessed at $491,359 – the Borough average – will pay $1,855 in local purpose taxes for 2008, an increase of $104 from last year.
For further detail on the budget and answers to some common questions, visit the Borough’s Web site.

TAX BILLS
The payment of taxes for the third quarter is due on Friday, August 1. However, the Borough cannot print and mail its tax bills – or set a new payment-due date – until it receives certain information from the State and County. At press time for What’s On, the Borough was still waiting to receive that information. THE BOROUGH WILL INCLUDE A notice with each tax bill, specifying the new due date. It will be at least 25 days after the date on which the bills were to be mailed.
Taxpayers should note that if taxes are not paid by the new due date, interest will be charged from the original due date, August 1, as required by law.

FUNDING FOR MUNICIPAL ALLIANCE
During their meeting on July 22, the Commissioners authorized the submission of an application for a grant valued at $14,226 for the Municipal Alliance for 2009.
The application includes an additional $1,000 for a new Police Department outreach program for 7th grade students in the public schools.
Haddonfield is required to match at least 25% of the amount of the base grant. Once again, the Rotary Club has provided that match ... and more. The Commissioners thank Rotary for its continued and significant support ($7,000 per year) of this vital program.

WATER QUALITY REPORT
The Water Quality Report for 2007 was mailed to all property owners served by the Water Utility during the last week of June. Additional copies of the report are available at the Borough Hall, Information Center, and Public Library.

BIDS FOR WATER METERS
During their meeting on July 22, the Commissioners authorized the advertising for bids for the supply of new water meters (3 options) and the installation of those meters (3 options). Bids are due on August 20 at ten-minute intervals, beginning at 10:00am.

BIDS FOR CONSTRUCTION IN KINGS COURT
During their meeting on July 22, the Commissioners authorized the re-advertising for bids for hardscape construction in Kings Court. Four bids had been received for the work, but all were in excess of the amount budgeted for the project.
In the new bid documents, some minor changes have been made and some items have been listed as alternates.
The due date for new bids is expected to be Thursday, August 21.

BIKE ROUTE DESIGNATED
Since one goal of the Transportation and Pedestrian Safety (TAPS) Committee is to ensure that Haddonfield remains a pedestrian-friendly community, the committee encourages the use of bicycles for local transportation. TAPS recently recommended the designation of a loop bicycle route through Haddonfield, along with two minor linking routes.
Grant money is available for the installation of signage on such routes, so during their meeting on July 22 the Commissioners endorsed the proposed route and authorized the submission of an application for funding for signage, publicity, and the improvement of crosswalks along the route.

MICROFILMING OF RECORDS
Several years ago, the State established a program designed to help municipalities improve the management of their records. During their meeting on July 22, the Commissioners authorized the use of an interlocal services agreement with the County to microfilm various municipal records. As a result, some original records will be disposed of and others will be transferred to the Historical Society. The end result will be decreased storage requirements and increased ease of access to records on microfilm.

PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES
During their meeting on July 22, the Commissioners authorized the signing of an agreement with Camden County by which the County will provide, at no cost to the Borough, various services traditionally provided by a municipal public health officer. The agreement will be for a two-year period and will be automatically renewed for two-year periods, unless terminated by either party.
Services include the inspection of food-service establishments, public health issues that arise in residences, and welfare matters.