Municipal Matters: July 2 – July 16

July 2 to July 16, 2010
CHANGE IN TRASH COLLECTION
Commissioners awarded a one-year contract to Casworth Enterprises Inc. for trash collection in the borough. The new service starts July 1. Services will not be changed in any way. The only difference residents will notice is that different trucks will be making the rounds. Commissioners made the change after analyzing projected costs over a five-year period, and estimated the borough will save almost $800,000 over that period with the move.
Commissioners also examined keeping the service in-house, but switching to a one-armed truck. This method was also compared to the cost of outsourcing the trash. After all options were reviewed, it was determined that outsourcing the current method would be the best alternative at this time. Bids received also included pricing for recycling, bulk and vegetative waste pick-up. Cost analysis indicated it was financially sound to keep these options in-house at this time.
Commissioners also rejected bids for two trash trucks as, with the decision to privatize the service, the trucks no longer were needed.

BOROUGH HALL CLOSED
Borough Hall will be closed Monday, July 5, in observance of Independence Day. There will be no trash pickup on July 5, but there will be double pickup on July 6.

JULY 4 EVENTS
The annual Fourth of July fireworks will be held July 4 at the high school beginning at 7:30 p.m. The parade will follow on July 5 at 10 a.m. and stretch down Kings Highway from Chestnut Street to the high school. Donations are accepted through the Haddonfield Celebrations Association.

SIGN UP TO SERVE
Commissioners announced vacancies on the Historic Preservation Commission and the Partnership For Haddonfield board. In addition, anyone interested in serving on the Municipal Alliance Committee is encouraged to contact the borough. Application forms can be found at the borough’s Web site.

SUMMER MEETING SCHEDULE
Commissioners announced the summer schedule for commission meetings. The only July meeting date is the 27th. In August, the only date is the 24th. Work sessions begin at 3 p.m., with the regular meeting at 7:30 at borough hall.

PROPERTY TAX REBATE DEADLINE
The deadline to file the 2009 property tax reimbursement application has been moved from June 1 to August 2. Seniors who need more information can call (800) 882-6597 or visit the following Web site:
www.nj.taxation@treas.state.nj.us.

WATER BILLS MAILED
Water bills have been mailed. Please keep an eye on your mail for the bill.

BUDGET MEETING
A public hearing on the 2010 budget will be held at the regular commission meeting on July 27 at 7:30 p.m. at borough hall.

TREE REMOVAL SERVICE BIDS
Commissioners authorized the advertisement for bids for tree removal services. After receiving the tree inventory, it was learned that a number of trees in the borough are in critical condition and must come down immediately. Bids are due on or before Thursday, July 22 at 10 a.m. in Room 102 of borough hall.

HUMAN RELATIONS AWARDS
The Human Relations Commission presented the Alvin R. Schomer Award to two people for their outstanding service to the community in fostering tolerance and diversity and demonstrating leadership and strength of character. Meghan Reed and Gabrielle Melzi were presented the award at the commission meeting.

ROTARY CLUB CONCERTS
Rotary Club concerts will be taking place Fridays during the summer on Kings Highway. The shows start at 7 p.m. Kings Highway will be closed to through traffic during the performances.

CRAFTS AND FINE ARTS FESTIVAL
The weekend of July 10-11 will see the Haddonfield Crafts and Fine Arts Festival in town. Portions of Kings Highway and Tanner, Mechanic and Chestnut streets will be closed from 6 a.m. on the 10th through 8 p.m. on the 11th. .

E-MAIL BLAST REMINDER
Residents can sign up at the borough’s Web site for e-mail blasts. Receive reminders about upcoming events and more by signing up today.