DOWNTOWN VISIONING UPDATE
In mid-August, the Borough invited seven area planning firms to submit proposals related to a �gvisioning planning process�h for the downtown. Four proposals were received, and the Commissioners recently awarded a contract to a Philadelphia firm, Brown & Keener Bressi. The bid from Brown & Keener Bressi was not the lowest of those received, but the Commissioners determined that it was the best and that it was in the best interests of the Borough to accept that bid. The maximum amount of the contract is $102,780, plus expenses. Part of that cost will be covered by a State of New Jersey Smart Growth Grant.
The consultants have held an initial meeting with representatives of the Borough. It is anticipated that a number of public meetings will be held to enable residents, business owners, commercial property owners, and other interested parties to have input into the process. Announcements relating to these meetings will be made in �gMunicipal Matters,�h on the Borough�fs Web site �| haddonfieldnj.org �| and via other media.

NEW LEAF RULES
The Borough�fs annual leaf collection program is under way. The Public Works Department�fs schedule calls for leaves to be vacuumed on the same day that trash and recycling materials are collected.
A new Borough ordinance, adopted recently as required by the State of New Jersey, sets out new rules relating to how and when leaves may be put out for collection. The goal of the new rules is to keep leaves (and therefore contaminants) out of the stormwater sewers (and therefore out of streams). The overall goal is to initially inhibit the degradation of water quality, and ideally to improve water quality over the long term.
> NEW RULE: Leaves may not be put out for collection more than seven days prior to the scheduled collection day. The Borough prefers that residents rake leaves to the curb the day before. (Remember: Trash Day is also Leaf Day.)
> NEW RULE: Leaves may not be placed in the road or in the gutter.
> NEW RULE: Leaves may not be placed within ten feet of a stormwater inlet.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Preliminary work has been carried out on a number of streets and at various intersections in preparation for �gmicrosurfacing�h (in some cases) and & #0147;mill and overlay�h (in others). Curbs have been replaced where necessary and handicapped ramps have been installed where required.
Residents of Belmont Avenue were asked for input on a proposal to install two permanent traffic calming devices �| �gspeed humps�h �| on their street. A clear majority of those who responded approved of the proposal, and work is under way.
Temporary rubber �gspeed tables�h will be installed on Lincoln Avenue in advance of road reconstruction in the spring. At that time, permanent raised speed tables and bulb-outs will be installed at the intersections of Lincoln with Walnut and with Center. The temporary rubber tables will then be moved to Euclid Avenue and to Roberts Avenue.
The Borough is holding discussions with the County about the possibility of placing traffic calming on county roads, and is also waiting news of applications it has made to the NJ Department of Transportation for grants to install various other permanent traffic calming devices on Euclid and Roberts.

KUDOS (TIMES TWO)

TOWN FORUM: The Commissioners thank the Civic Association for once again hosting the annual Town Forum, at the Borough Hall. The forum enables residents and business owners to question elected officials about municipal matters of interest and concern.
FALL FESTIVAL: The Commissioners also thank those who contributed to the outstanding success of Haddonfield�fs recent Fall Festival (coordinated this year by Arlene Fiorilli, director of the Information Center), in particular: members of participating community organizations, members of the Activities Committee, Public Works Department crews, and members of the Police Department. A great effort!
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TOWN MEETING: OCTOBER 20
The Civic Association will hold its annual Town Meeting in the Borough Hall auditorium on Thursday, October 20, starting at 7:30pm. This is an opportunity for residents and business owners to comment and ask questions of the Commissioners and other Borough officials on matters of interest and concern.

TRICK OR TREAT!
In the interests of safety, the Chief of Police recommends that parents limit their children�fs trick-or-treating activities to Monday, October 31 from 2:00pm to sunset.
The Halloween Parade, sponsored by the Celebrations Association, will take place on Sunday, October 30. Assemble behind the Presbyterian Church at 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start.

THE CONCERT FOR KATRINA
The Borough-sponsored fund-raiser to benefit the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, held in the High School auditorium on October 2, was a great success, and the Commissioners record their thanks to all who participated, on both sides of the footlights.
The presentation by Haddon Summer Music Theatre, titled �gA Broadway Medley,�h was outstanding, and the success of the event enabled the Borough to make a consolidated contribution to the Red Cross, on behalf of the community, of more than $12,000.

FLU SHOTS
A flu shot clinic will not be held in Haddonfield this year, but residents may attend clinics at other locations in Camden County including, in October:
�œ Haddon Township �| Tuesday, October 25, 1:30 to 3:30pm Rohrer Library, 15 Mac Arthur Boulevard
�œ Collingswood �| Wednesday, October 26, 9:30 to 11:30am Collingswood Senior Center, 30 W. Collings Avenue
�œ Barrington �| Wednesday, October 26, 1:30 to 3:30pm Barrington Senior Center, 229 Trenton Avenue
�œ Cherry Hill �| Friday, October 28, 10am to 2pm Cherry Hill Community Center, 820 Mercer Street

INPUT ON BANCROFT
More than 200 people attended a Public Input Meeting in the Middle School auditorium on September 27, facilitated by the Borough�fs planning consultant and designed to help create a vision for the Bancroft site.
Those who were not able to attend the meeting are invited to share their thoughts with the planners �| and the Commissioners �| in any of the following ways:
�œ Send a letter to the planners: Heyer Gruel & Associates, 63 Church Street, New Brunswick NJ 08901. Or send a fax to 732-828-9480. Or send an e-mail to mail@hgapa.com.
�œ Send a letter to the Commissioners: c/o Borough Hall, 242 Kings Highway East. Or send a fax to 795-1445. Or send an e-mail to boroughmail@haddonfield-nj.gov.
The Commissioners are studying the matter carefully, seeking advice from experts, and welcoming input from the community. They have made no decision with respect to acquiring the property and assure residents that opportunities for additional public input will be provided prior to the making of any such decision.

OUT OF TOWN ON ELECTION DAY?
Registered voters wishing to apply for an absentee ballot for the General Election on Tuesday, November 1 must do so by Tuesday, October 25. Forms are available at the Borough Hall (Room 101) and the Information Center.

HYDRANT FLUSHING
Fire hydrants in Zone 4 �| south of Kings Highway and east of the Speedline �| will be flushed on October 18, 19, 20, and 21.
The purpose of the program is to flush corrosive material from the system. During and for a short time after flushing, water may be discolored. Let your cold water spigots run until the water runs clear. Do not run your washing machine until the water is clear.
Questions? 429-0183 (Monday to Friday, 7am to 3:30pm).

RECYCLE YOUR ELECTRONICS!
Residents who wish to dispose of certain electronics products may do so on Saturday, October 22 from 8:30am to 12:30pm at the Camden County Public Works Complex, 2311 Egg Harbor Road, Lindenwold.
The site will accept the following personally owned products (i.e. from individuals, but not from businesses): computers (including laptops), printers, scanners, keyboards, modems, mouses, monitors, TVs, VCRs, DVD players, tape players, radios, stereo equipment, typewriters, fax machines, answering machines, and telephones.
Household hazardous waste products that may be dropped off on Saturday, October 15 from 8:30pm to 3:00pm: Automotive products, paint-related products, household cleaners, pesticides, fuels, personal care products, home and hobby wastes (but not motor oil, which can be recycled).
Questions? Call 856-858-5241

LEAF COLLECTION STARTS OCTOBER 10
Public Works Department crews will begin vacuuming leaves on Monday, October 17. They will collect leaves from residential streets once a week, on Trash Day, through Friday, December 9.
�œ Four factors affect the efficiency of leaf collection:
�œ The reliability of equipment;
�œ The dedication of the crews;
�œ The weather;
�œ The cooperation of residents and lawn contractors.
Here�fs how you can help us ensure the safety and efficiency of the leaf collection operation:
�œ Remember that Trash Day is also Leaf Day. Rake your leaves as close as possible to the day they are scheduled to be picked up.
�œ Rake leaves to the park strip (between the curb and the sidewalk). Where there is no park strip, rake leaves behind the sidewalk. Where there is no sidewalk, rake them behind the curb.
�œ Please do NOT rake leaves into the street. Leaves in the street cause drainage problems. Wet leaves in the street are hard to vacuum; they become slippery and can be a safety hazard. Large piles of leaves in the street can make it difficult for motorists to see small children on sidewalks and streets. Dry leaves in the street can be ignited by hot exhaust pipes, causing fires under cars.
�œ Rake leaves into one or two large piles, rather than into many small piles. Crews will NOT rake from park strips the LOOSE leaves that are not in piles.
�œ Please do NOT bag leaves. Crews have to open and empty the bags in order to vacuum the leaves. That wastes time. Therefore, we urge you to rake leaves rather than bag them.
�œ Please do NOT mix brush or vines with leaves. During leaf collection season, the Public Works Department does not chip brush. Brush and vegetative matter will be picked up as trash. Cut and tie brush etc in bundles no longer than 4ft and no heavier than 50lbs. Place bundles neatly on the park strip with your trash.
If you use a lawn service, PLEASE ensure the contractor is familiar with these rules. (If a summons is issued for a violation, it is the HOMEOWNER who must appear in court.)
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STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
During their meeting on September 27, the Commissioners introduced several Ordinances to implement the State�fs Stormwater Management Regulations. The goal of the regulations is to keep inappropriate material out of waterways (by keeping it out of storm sewers and by preventing it from washing directly into streams).
The regulations cover defecation by pets (all kinds, not just dogs) on public property; the spilling, dumping, and disposal of inappropriate materials into stormwater sewers; the placing of vegetative waste in the street; and illicit connections into stormwater sewers.
A Public Hearing on the proposed Ordinances will be held on Tuesday, October 11 at 7:30pm.

BENEFIT FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS
�gThe Concert for Katrina,�h a Borough-sponsored fund-raiser to benefit the American Red Cross will take place in the High School auditorium on Sunday, October 2, starting at 5:00pm. Titled �gA Broadway Medley,�h the concert will include selections from hit musicals that Haddon Summer Music Theatre has presented during the past 16 summers.
Tickets, at $20, are available at the Information Center (21 Ellis Street at Kings Court), Here's My Heart & Home (53 Kings Highway East, open seven days), and (while supplies last) at the door.

SLOW DOWN: DRIVE 25!
A public awareness campaign to remind drivers of the speed limit in Haddonfield �| 25 m.p.h. �|will run from Tuesday, October 4 to Monday 10.
The Commissioners encourage residents to help ensure the success of the campaign �|and the safety of motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians �| by making a conscious effort to �gDrive 25�h on all roads in Haddonfield, at all times.

COMING UP: FALL FESTIVAL
The Commissioners encourage all residents to take advantage of Fall Festival �| on Saturday, October 15, from 11:00am to 4:00pm �|to learn about the activities and programs of Haddonfield�fs many community organizations. More than 40 groups are expected to set up displays on the Kings highway sidewalks between Haddon Avenue and the Speedline, and in Kings Court.
The Partnership for Haddonfield is sponsoring a Crafts Festival on Tanner Street, with more than 70 exhibitors. The hours are 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Rain date: Sunday, October 16 from 12:00n to 5:00pm.

WANTED: VOLUNTEERS
Do you have some time on your hands? An hour ... or two? A half day ... or more? Occasionally ... or frequently?
If so, the Information Center would like to add to you its Volunteer Bank, a database of residents who are ready, willing, and able to lend a hand around town when needs arise.
To find out more, and to register, stop by the Center (23 Ellis Street at Kings Court) or call Arlene Fiorilli at 216-7253. Thank you ... in advance!

APPOINTMENTS AND VACANCIES
�œ Human Relations Commission. A vacancy has resulted from the resignation of Linda Wharton. Those interested in learning about the work of the Commission, with a view to serving, should e-mail: boroughmail@haddonfield-nj.gov.
�œ Zoning Board. The Commissioners have appointed Eugene Haag as Alternate II, George Haitsch as Alternate III,and Matthew Mazur as Alternate IV. . Michael Wondrasch and Susan Baltake are now voting members on the Board, replacing Christopher Leise and William Carroll, respectively, who have resigned.
�œ Partnership for Haddonfield. The Commissioners have appointed Susan Maslowski as a Class II member, to fill the unexpired term of Mary Helen Ranieri, who has resigned.
The Commissioners thank Linda Wharton, Christopher Leise, William Carroll, and Mary Helen Ranieri for their contributions of time and talent for the benefit of the Borough and the community.

HYDRANT FLUSHING
The fall component of a twice-yearly program to flush corrosive material from the Borough�fs water mains and fire hydrants is under way.
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SCHOOL'S IN - DRIVE CAREFULLY!
When the public schools in Haddonfield open during the first week of September, pedestrian traffic will throughout the town will increase significantly. Drivers are asked to be alert to the changed condition, to drive carefully, and to observe the speed limit - 25 miles per hour - throughout the town.

BANCROFT UPDATE
In July, Bancroft NeuroHealth invited proposals for the acquisition of its Haddonfield campus, at Kings Highway and Hopkins Lane. At the due date in late August, Bancroft had received more than 40 offers to purchase the property. The potential sale of this property has considerable ramifications, not just for Bancroft's neighbors, but for the community as a whole. Recognizing this, the Commissioners have taken various steps to ensure that the Borough remains apprised of developments, has the facts and advice it needs to respond appropriately to developments or to initiate action, and is in a position to influence any proposed change in the use of the site in ways that the Commissioners believe will be in the best interests of the entire community. To this end, the Commissioners have established a line of communication with Bancroft at the highest level, and have agreed with Bancroft that it is in the best interests of both Bancroft and the community for this matter to be handled in a cooperative manner, rather than an adversarial one. They have also agreed to keep the Board of Education apprised of relevant developments, since the site offers unique expansion possibilities for the High School. They have also assembled a team of professionals that includes an appraiser (Robert Sapio), a planner (Heyer, Gruel & Associates of New Brunswick), and a development attorney/bond attorney (McManimon & Scotland of Newark) to provide expert advise with respect to the various scenarios for the future of the site. The Commissioners have also requested the Planning Board to investigate whether the Bancroft property could be designated a redevelopment or rehabilitation zone and to provide advice and recommendations on that matter. The Bancroft property is zoned R-2 (single-family residences on lots of at least 20,000 sqft). Bancroft is able to use the property for its current purposes as a preexisting nonconforming use, with changes to that use possible only by virtue of use variances. Any proposed new use would require the site to be rezoned, a fact that gives the Borough considerable control over the future of the property. After the Commissioners have received better information on options they will invite formal input from the community.

APPOINTMENTS

• Environmental Commission. The Commissioners have appointed Kim Custer as Alternate II, replacing Michael Crane, who has resigned.
• Historic Preservation Commission. Following the resignation of Elise Vider, who moved from Haddonfield, Barry Bannett (formerly Alternate I) filled the vacancy and the Commissioners appointed David Gottardi as Alternate II. John LaProcidio has become Alternate and Joe Haro has become chairman, replacing Elise Vider.
• Business Improvement District. The Commissioners have appointed Melanie Fendt, of Accent Studio, to a Retail seat on the Board of the Partnership for Haddonfield. She replaces Eleanor Togneri, who has resigned. The Commissioners have appointed Beverly Lloyd Aldeghi as Alternate II, to fill a vacancy resulting from the resignation of Elise Vider, who moved from Haddonfield. One vacancy remains in the Retail category. Those interested in joining the Partnership board should write to the Commissioners indicating their interest and describing their expertise. The Board meets on the first Wednesday of each month, starting at 8:30am. Meetings generally last for about two hours. Board members also participate in committee work. The Commissioners thank Michael Crane, Elise Vider, and Eleanor Togneri for their contributions of time and talent for the benefit of the Borough and the community.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING UPDATE
Communities in New Jersey have an obligation to make it reasonably possible for those of limited means to obtain housing in their community. The criteria for what is reasonably possible are set by the Council on Affordable Housing ("COAH") , a State agency, which also reviews and approves municipalities' plans for meeting their "fair share" of the overall low/moderate-income housing obligation. In compliance with COAH's requirements, the Borough has filed various affordable housing plans, and amendments to those plans. The Borough also filed an application requesting an extension of time to file a new plan for what is called the "third cycle" based on COAH's revised regulations. An objection was filed to our recent application for an extension of our certification, partially on the basis that our application did not include the potential availability of the Bancroft property. A similar objection was filed against the most recent plan amendment. The objections were filed even though the Borough did not know about the potential availability of the Bancroft property at the time the Borough submitted its applications. In the meantime, COAH issued their report on mediation of earlier objections, stating that Haddonfield has complied with all COAH regulations by its plans, and rejecting the basis for the objections. Until all these issues are resolved through COAH, the Borough's ability to approve any applications for development remains restrained (except for additions or modifications to single-family homes).

KINGS COURT APARTMENTS
Work began recently on a project to renovate a number of shops on the west side of Kings Court and to construct 20 apartments above. The Borough issued a demolition permit and signed an easement agreement, permitting the contractor to use part of Kings Court to support the construction activities.
The Historic Preservation Commission and the Planning Board have approved the exterior appearance of the development, but construction permits will not be issued until the Borough's Construction Official has reviewed all plans to ensure compliance with building codes and the context set by the Planning Board The project will include four "affordable housing" units.

DOWNTOWN VISIONING UPDATE
In mid-August, the Borough invited seven area planning firms to submit proposals related to a "vision planning process" for the downtown. The invitation noted that "while the community holds its award-winning downtown in highest regard, many recognize that maintaining downtown quality and viability is an ongoing, ever-changing process." For that reason, the Planning Board "proposed the development of a downtown vision plan to build on the work that has been done by the business community, and engage the broader community in planning for the town center" The Commissioners have endorsed the Planning Board's initiative. The goal of the vision plan is to create a document that will serve as the framework for Master Plan, land use, and design guideline updates. The plan will address: historic preservation, zoning designations, retail tenancy and mix, �gdowntown ' area designation, parking, Smart Growth principles, architectural/design standards, permitted uses, PATCO lot development, traffic calming, signage and sidewalk displays, aging infrastructure, desired land-use mix, infill, impact of possible reuses of the Bancroft site, COAH requirements, building heights, and streetscape standards.
Proposals are due on September 16. It is envisioned that the consultant will be selected by mid-October and a contract will be signed by mid-November. Public meetings and community outreach will begin in January 2006, and the final report will be due on June 1. Copies of the Request for Proposals are available at the borough Hall, in Room 101. Copies are available for perusal at the Public Library and the Information Center.

LABOR DAY HOLIDAY
The Borough Hall, Public Library, Public Works Department, and Information Center will be closed on Monday, September 5, in observance of Labor Day. Emergency water and sewer service will be available around-the-clock, as usual, as will police, fire, and ambulance services.

FALL EVENTS
The Commissioners have given permission for the Activities Committee to use sidewalks and other public property in the commercial district for its Fall Festival on Saturday, October 15. The Commissioners have authorized the closing of Kings Highway from Haddon Avenue to Washington Avenue on Sunday, September 11 from 8:00am to 5:00pm and have given permission for the Ankokas Antique Auto Club to use the roadway, sidewalks and other public property in the commercial district for its annual Antique Auto Show from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Residents and business owners are encouraged to patronize the Books & Things Sale, sponsored by the Haddonfield Friends of the Library, on Saturday, September 17. Proceeds from the sale benefit Library activities, programs, and purchases.

LONGTIME EMPLOYEES RETIRE
The Borough recently saluted two retiring employees who between them have logged more than 50 years of service to the community. John Monzo (top) and Robert Sieck joined the Department of Works within a few days of each other in 1978 as "water systems man" and "utility man" respectively. Over the years they have worked in various capacities within the Department; both retired with the classification Driver/Laborer. On behalf of the community, the Commissioners thank Mr. Monzo and Mr. Sieck for their dedicated service to Haddonfield, and wish them a long, healthy, and happy retirement.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Appropriately, in a town where volunteerism plays such a major role in the life of the community, the Calendar Committee chose "service" as the theme for this year's Community Calendar. The Commissioners thank the members of the committee - Gail Arruda, Arlene Fiorilli, Marta Hall, David Podgor, and Doug Rauschenberger for the time and talent they contributed to the editing, designing, funding, and publishing this most attractive and useful component of life in Haddonfield. They also acknowledge the significant financial contributions of many organizations, businesses, and individuals that make it possible to produce the calendar each year without the expenditure of public money from either the Borough or the Board of Education.
Residents who did not receive their copy of the calendar in the mail should check with the Post Office. The calendar is available for purchase at the Information Center (21 Ellis Street at Kings Court) and the Borough Hall (Room 101.) The price is $7.00.

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Affordable Housing Plan Update
The Planning Board held a Public Hearing on July 5 on revised amendments to the Borough's Affordable Housing Plan. After hearing a considerable amount of public comment, the Board adopted the proposed amendments.
The Commissioners then held a special meeting and voted to endorse the amended plan, which was submitted on July 6 to the state's Council on Affordable Housing.

Stormwater Management Plan Update
The Planning Board held a Public Hearing on July 5 on a proposed Municipal Stormwater Management Plan (the adoption of which is mandated by state law) and subsequently adopted the plan. The Commissioners will now prepare draft ordinances and regulations to implement the policies in the plan.

Tax Bills ... Coming!
The Borough was planning to mail new tax bills by July 15, but a delay by the state in setting state aid figures (which must be printed on the bills) resulted in the date's being moved back.
Third quarter payments are normally due by August 1, with a grace period of 10 days. If there is a further delay in receiving information from the state, the Commissioners will extend the grace period so that taxpayers have a reasonable time to pay after actually receiving their bills in the mail.

Water Quality Report
The Borough's Water Quality Report for 2004 has been mailed townwide. Copies are available at the Borough Hall, Information Center, Public Library, Mabel Kay House, and Public Library.

Speaking of Water ...
At all times, but especially during the hot summer months, residents and business owners are asked to (a) limit watering and (b) water early (before 6:00am) or water late (after 6:00pm).
These actions will help even out the peaks and valleys of demand, reduce the loads on the water utility's pumping equipment, conserve our most precious resource, and save money.

Audit Report Received
The Borough has received copies of the audit for 2004, carried out by Bowman & Company, as required by state law.
As in previous years, the auditors have reported that the Borough's financial operations are in good order. As usual, they have made a number of recommendations of a minor nature.
Copies of the complete audit are available for perusal at the Public Library and in Room 101 of the Borough Hall.

Curb Cuts
The Commissioners have awarded a contract valued at $27,560, to Marandino Concrete of Vineland for the installation of ramps at a number of key crosswalks and intersections in the neighborhood of schools. The cost of the work is covered by Community Development Block Grant funds.
The work is scheduled to begin by July 18 and to be completed by late August. Property owners in the vicinity of the curb cuts will receive notices when work is about to commence.
A total of 14 ramps will be installed, at the intersections of the following streets:
Redman and Peyton 2
?Redman and Avondale 3
?Grove and Glover 1
?Lake and Grove 2
?Washington and West Park 1
?Redman and Barberry 4
?Warwick and West Summit 1
The Borough has applied for a similar grant to install more ramps during the summer of 2006.

Thanks for the Third (and the Fourth)! The Commissioners congratulate the Celebrations Association on yet another successful concert and fireworks display (on July 3) and parade (on July 4), and thank the members of the Association for their efforts to ensure that Haddonfield's Fourth of July festivities remain the best in the region.

Redevelopment Zone Update Some time ago, the Commissioners asked the Planning Board to undertake a study of whether the property bounded by Haddon Avenue, Kings Highway, and Tanner Street would qualify to be a redevelopment zone. The request was made as part of an investigation of the feasibility of acquiring property within that ?triangle? for public parking. A report was prepared by the Camden County Improvement Authority. After it was received, the Planning Board decided to table the matter to allow work on the downtown visioning project to proceed first. The newly elected Board of Commissioners decided recently that the visioning project is the only one that should proceed at the present time, and during their meeting on June 28 they adopted a resolution to rescind the initial request. Their action effectively put an end to further action with respect to a redevelopment zone.

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