TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

MINUTES FOR  JANUARY 22, 2007

 

REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE –4:00  P.M.

BUDGET WORKSHOP-immediately following the regular meeting.

 

CALL TO ORDER

 

SUNSHINE ANNOUNCEMENT

 

SALUTE TO THE FLAG

 

ROLL CALL

 

Barbara Camp             Absent

            Frank E. Conrad         Present

Curtis Corson              Present  

            John “Jay” Newman   Present           

Richard Palombo        Present

 

Also present were Municipal Clerk Wanda Gaglione, Finance Officer Patricia Garbutt, Municipal Attorney Daniel Young and Municipal Engineer Paul Dietrich.

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES  -          January 5, 2007 Reorganization and

                                                              January 8, 2007 Regular Meeting and

                                                             Closed Session Minutes

Motion was made by Jay Newman, second by Curtis Corson to approve the 1/5/2007 Minutes as written.  Motion also included approval of the 1/8/2007 Regular Minutes with one correction--that being an amendment to page 1 to show a motion to close out only one MUA account for J. Innocente #1049.  The other two accounts listed are paid in full and are reinstated.  During roll call vote all four Committee members present voted in the affirmative.

 

REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY MEMBERS

 

Frank Conrad, reported on a visit he made to the Atlantic City Utilities Solar-Wind Farm.  He felt it is worth investigating alternative uses and that there were costs savings possible by using these other technologies. The State is developing programs to help municipalities and school districts utilize these new technologies.  The use of this technology will greatly increase in the near future.  There was discussion of incorporating wind turbines in our Zoning Ordinance.

He also reported that he attended the School Bus Safety Poster contest and helped to judge the entries.

 

Richard Palombo, Mayor, reported that the Township was granted substantial funds for the Municipal Alliance (MAC) program, which is operated jointly with Upper Township and Ocean City. The total grant of $62,738, is used to continue the crusade to help our children say “no” to drugs by providing programs such as the “Hooked on Fishing”, Red Ribbon Day, hosting dances and the prom, and other fine programs.  

 

OTHER REPORTS

 

Daniel Young, Municipal Attorney, discussed memos in the meeting package regarding the Gypsy Moth Spray program.  Mr. Young recommended that the schools be notified as to when the spraying would take place.  There is a concern as to what day the spraying would occur and it was stipulated that no spraying would take place when the school busses are running.  The Mayor discussed that the State proposed using the insecticide Dimilin in some areas, and questioned its safety. 

Mr. Young also reported that he received a notice of appeals from Superior Court Appellate Division whereby Cape May County sued the Department of Transportation to force some kind of action on the Beesley’s Point Bridge situation.  The suit requests that the bridge be reopened and acknowledges that the NJDOT has a responsibility of maintaining state highways to insure adequate transportation.  The county asks for support of the suit.

 

Paul Dietrich, Municipal Engineer, discussed the proposal for the Planner, Maser Consulting, at the last meeting.  The proposal for services of Zoning Ordinance Amendments shows they prepared an amount not to exceed $10,000, based on their time spent.  The other was for the update of the Housing Plan and Mr. Dietrich is waiting for that figure. 

 

RESOLUTIONS

 

     1.  Honoring Webelos Scouts of Cub Scout Pack 79, on attaining the Arrow of Light Award, Alexander J. Schoedler, Jonah M. Butler, Tyler P. Carroll,

           Anthony J. Mirallegro, William J. Eisele, IV, Brendan G. Kane, Kevin M. Birk, Shaun M. O’Connor, and Jack T. Kane.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

                     CAPE MAY COUNTY

                   R E S O L U T I O N

                 RESOLUTION NO. 029-2007

RE: HONORING WEBELOS SCOUTS OF CUB SCOUT PACK 79,        

ALEXANDER J. SCHOEDLER, JONAH M. BUTLER, TYLER P. CARROLL, ANTHONY J. MIRALLEGRO, WILLIAM J. EISELE IV, BRENDAN G. KANE, KEVIN M. BIRK, SHAUN M. O’CONNOR, JACK T. KANE

ON ATTAINING THE ARROW OF LIGHT AWARD

 

WHEREAS, the Webelos Scouts of Cub Scout Pack 79, have recently achieved the Arrow of Light Award, which is the highest level of advancement for a Cub Scout; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Upper wishes to acknowledge this outstanding accomplishment; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper, in the County of Cape May and State of New Jersey, as follows:

RESOLVED THAT this Township Committee extends its sincere congratulations to these graduating Webelos Scouts on the occasion of their receiving the Arrow of Light Award and commends them for this outstanding accomplishment; and it is

FURTHER RESOLVED that the Township Committee extends its congratulations and best wishes to their parents, family and friends on this happy occasion; and it is

FURTHER RESOLVED that the Township Committee also extends its congratulations and appreciation to the Scout Masters and others who give so freely and generously of their time for the benefit of our youth.

GIVEN UNDER OUR HANDS and the seal of the Township of Upper this 22nd day of January, 2007.

Resolution No. 029-2007

Offered by: Conrad,     Seconded by: Newman

Adopted:  January 22, 2007

Roll Call Vote:

NAME           YES      NO            ABSTAINED   ABSENT

Camp           _______  ­­_________­­­­     _______   ___x___

Conrad         __x____  _________     ­­­­­­­­_______   _______

Corson         __x____  _________     _______   _______

Newman         __x____  _________     _______   _______

Palombo        __x____  _________     _______   _______

 

 

2.       Hire Ronald E. Hallam, Jr. and Deborah J. Dore as part time workers to the Upper Township Rescue Squad.

 

                          TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

                           CAPE MAY COUNTY

                         R E S O L U T I O N

                       RESOLUTION NO. 030-2007

RE:  CONFIRMING THE APPOINTMENTS OF DEBORAH J. DORE AND RONALD E. HALLAM, JR. AS PART-TIME EMPLOYEES

OF THE UPPER TOWNSHIP DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

________________________________________________________________

 

 

WHEREAS, a need exists to appoint qualified personnel as part-time employees to the Upper Township Division of Emergency Medical Services to insure optimal operation; and

WHEREAS, a recommendation has been made to the Township Committee and duly considered at the meeting of January 8, 2007; and

WHEREAS, this Resolution is intended to ratify the action heretofore taken; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper, in the County of Cape May and State of New Jersey, as follows:

1.  The allegations of the preamble are incorporated herein by this reference.

           2.  Deborah J.  Dore is hereby appointed as a member of the Division of Emergency Medical Services in a part-time position effective immediately at a salary of $12.00 per hour.

3.                                                           Ronald E. Hallam, Jr. is hereby appointed as a member of the Division of Emergency Medical Services in a part-time position effective immediately at a salary of $12.00 per hour.

4.                                                           This Resolution ratifies, confirms and approves action taken by the Township Committee, by motion, at the meeting of January 8, 2007.

 

Resolution No. 030-2007

Offered by: Newman               Seconded by: Corson

Adopted: January 22, 2007

Roll Call Vote:

NAME           YES           NO           ABSTAINED    ABSENT

Camp         ___________    __________   __________   ____X_____

Conrad       ___X_______    __________   __________   ______­____

Corson       ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

Newman       ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

Palombo      ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

 

 

  1. Reserve Budget Transfer.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION NO.  31-2007

RE:  RESERVE BUDGET TRANSFERS

 

          WHEREAS, various 2006 bills have been presented for payment this year, which bills were not covered by order number and/or recorded at the time of transfers between the 2006 budget appropriation reserve in the last two months of 2006, and

 

          WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-59 provides that all unexpended balances carried forward after the close of the year are available, until lapsed at the close of the succeeding year, to meet specific claims, commitments or contracts incurred during the preceding fiscal year, and allow transfers to be made from unexpended balances which are expected to be insufficient during the first three months of the succeeding year.

 

          NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper that the transfers in the amount of $12,000.00 be made between the 2006 budget appropriation reserves as follows:

 

 

               TO                                                           FROM                                                                            

                                                         

STREET LIGHTING O/E                                         MUNICIPAL COURT S/W

            $  12,000.00                                                                $    4,387.77

                                                                                    PURCHASE TTL’S

                                                                                                $    1,000.00

                                                                                    TIPPING FEES

                                                                                                $     6,612.23                                                    

 

 

Resolution No.  31-2007

OFFERED BY:   Corson              SECONDED BY:  Palombo

Adopted:  January 22, 2007

 

ROLL CALL VOTE:

NAME                              YES              NO              ABSTAINED  ABSENT

Camp            ____________    __________   __________   ____x_­____

Conrad          _____x______    __________   __________   __________

Corson          _____x______    __________   __________   __________

Newman       _____x______    __________   __________   __________

Palombo       _____x______    __________   __________   __________

 

 

  1. Appointment of Capehart Scatchard, P.A. to act as Special Legal Counsel.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

R E S O L U T I O N

RESOLUTION NO.   032-2007

RE:   APPOINTMENT OF CAPEHART SCATCHARD, P.A.

TO ACT AS SPECIAL LEGAL COUNSEL

___________________________________________________________________________

                        WHEREAS, the Township requires legal counsel to provide legal services regarding employment law and labor law related issues; and

                        WHEREAS, a resolution is required authorizing the award of such contract for professional services; and

                        WHEREAS, Capehart Scatchard, P.A. has completed and submitted a Business Entity Disclosure Certification which certifies that Capehart Scatchard, P.A. has not made any reportable contributions to a political or candidate committee in the Township that would bar the award of this contract and that the contract will prohibit Capehart Scatchard, P.A. from making any reportable contributions through the term of the contract; and

                        NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper, in the County of Cape May and State of New Jersey, as follows:

                        1.  The allegations of the preamble are incorporated herein by this reference.

                        2.  Capehart Scatchard, P.A. with offices at 8000 Midlantic Drive, Suite 300, Mount Laurel, New Jersey is hereby appointed Special Legal Counsel to handle matters regarding employment law and labor law issues as well as other matters as directed by the Township Committee.

                        3.  This contract shall have a commencement date of January 1, 2007 and shall continue for the length of time necessary for completion of the aforesaid legal services, unless sooner terminated by the Township of Upper, at the option of the Township of Upper.

                        4.  This Contract is awarded without competitive bidding as a “professional service” in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a) of the New Jersey Local Public Contract Law because  Capehart Scatchard, P.A. has professional knowledge as to legal matters which knowledge is particularly valuable to the Township Committee.

NOTICE OF CONTRACT AWARD

                                    The Township Committee of the Township of Upper, State of New Jersey has awarded the contract without competitive bidding as a professional service pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a) to Capehart Scatchard, P.A. for legal services. This contract and the resolution authorizing same shall be available for public inspection in the office of the municipal clerk of the Township of Upper, State of New Jersey.

                        5.  A certificate from the Chief Financial Officer of Upper Township showing the availability of adequate funds for this contract and showing the line item appropriation of the official budget to which this contract will be properly charged has been provided to the governing body and shall be attached to this Resolution and kept in the files of the municipal clerk.

                        6.  The contractor has registered with the State of New Jersey pursuant to c.57, Laws of 2004 and has provided proof of that registration to the Township of Upper.

                        7.  The Mayor and the Township Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute, on behalf of the Township of Upper, a Professional Contract with Capehart Scatchard, P.A. in accordance with the terms and provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law, subject to and in accordance with the limitations imposed herein. Upon execution of all parties thereto said contract shall become effective.

                        8.  A copy of this Resolution shall be published in the official newspaper of the Township of Upper within ten (10) days from the date of adoption.

                        9.  This Resolution shall be effective as of adoption.

 

 

Resolution No.  032-2007

Offered by: Conrad                              Seconded by: Newman

Adopted: January 22, 2007

Roll Call Vote:

NAME                            YES           NO                ABSTAINED    ABSENT

Camp             ___________     __________   __________   ____X_____

Conrad           ____X______    __________   __________   __________

Corson           ____X______    __________   __________   __________

Newman        ____X______    __________   __________   __________

Palombo        ____X______    __________   __________   __________

 

                                                                                   

  1. Appointment of George B. Neidig, Jr. to act as Special Legal Counsel regarding matters in which the regular Township Solicitor may have a conflict of interest.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

R E S O L U T I O N

RESOLUTION NO.          033-2007

RE:   APPOINTMENT OF GEORGE B. NEIDIG, JR. TO

ACT AS SPECIAL LEGAL COUNSEL REGARDING MATTERS IN WHICH THE

REGULAR TOWNSHIP SOLICITOR MAY HAVE A CONFLICT OF INTEREST

__________________________________________________________

 

WHEREAS, the Township requires legal counsel to provide legal services in the event a conflict of interest arises in regard to the services provided by the regular Township Solicitor; and

WHEREAS, a resolution is required authorizing the award of such contract for professional services; and

WHEREAS, George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire has completed and submitted a Business Entity Disclosure Certification which certifies that George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire has not made any reportable contributions to a political or candidate committee in the Township that would bar the award of this contract and that the contract will prohibit George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire from making any reportable contributions through the term of the contract; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper, in the County of Cape May and State of New Jersey, as follows:

1.  The allegations of the preamble are incorporated herein by this reference.

                        2.  George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire with offices at 2123 Dune Drive, Avalon, New Jersey is hereby appointed Special Legal Counsel to handle matters in which the regular Township Solicitor has a conflict of interest as well as other matters as directed by the Township Committee.

3.  This contract shall have a commencement date of January 1, 2007 and shall continue for the length of time necessary for completion of the aforesaid legal services, unless sooner terminated by the Township of Upper, at the option of the Township of Upper.

4.  This Contract is awarded without competitive bidding as a professional service in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a) of the New Jersey Local Public Contract Law because 

George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire has professional knowledge as to legal matters which knowledge is particularly valuable to the Township Committee.

NOTICE OF CONTRACT AWARD

The Township Committee of the Township of Upper, State of New Jersey has awarded the contract without competitive bidding as a professional service pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a) to George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire for legal services. This contract and the resolution authorizing same shall be available for public inspection in the office of the municipal clerk of the Township of Upper, State of New Jersey.

5.  A certificate from the Chief Financial Officer of Upper Township showing the availability of adequate funds for this contract and showing the line item appropriation of the official budget to which this contract will be properly charged has been provided to the governing body and shall be attached to this Resolution and kept in the files of the municipal clerk.

6.  The contractor has registered with the State of New Jersey pursuant to c.57, Laws of 2004 and has provided proof of that registration to the Township of Upper.

7.  The Mayor and the Township Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute, on behalf of the Township of Upper, a Professional Contract with George B. Neidig, Jr., Esquire in accordance with the terms and provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law, subject to and in accordance with the limitations imposed herein. Upon execution of all parties thereto said contract shall become effective.

8.  A copy of this Resolution shall be published in the official newspaper of the Township of Upper within ten (10) days from the date of adoption.

9.  This Resolution shall be effective as of adoption.

 

Resolution No.           033 -2007

Offered by: Newman                                           Seconded by: Conrad

Adopted: January 22, 2007

Roll Call Vote:

NAME                            YES           NO                ABSTAINED    ABSENT

Camp             ___________     __________   __________   _____X_­___

Conrad           ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

Corson           ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

Newman        ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

Palombo        ___X_______    __________   __________   __________

 

 

  1. Amending Resolution No. 224-2006 regarding Budget Transfers.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION NO. 034 -2007

RE:  AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 224-2006 REGARDING

BUDGET TRANSFERS

 

 

WHEREAS, budgetary transfers between line items can be made after November 1, and

 

          WHEREAS, it is necessary to make transfers between certain line items of the Municipal Budget of the Township of Upper; and

 

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 224-2006 was adopted on November 13, 2006 and contained an inadvertent error; and

 

WHEREAS, this resolution amends and correctly restates the intended terms and

provisions of Resolution No. 224-2006.

 

          NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper as follows:

 

1.      The following transfers between line items in the Municipal Budget of the                         

Township of Upper shall be made immediately.

 

 

               TO                                                           FROM                                                                            

                                                         

GROUP INSURANCE EMPLOYEES                 SPECIAL LITIGATION                                                                                   

        $    20,000.00                                                                    $     11,550.00

CELEBRATION PUBLIC EVENTS                    GYPSY MOTH O/E

        $      2,000.00                                                                    $      15,000.00

W/C INSURANCE PREMIUMS                          BEACH PATROL S/W

         $   11,550.00                                                                      $      10,000.00   

 1ST AID ORGANIZATION O/E                           RECREATION S/W      

         $     2,500.00                                                                      $          500.00     CONSTRUCTION O/E

        $         500.00

CROSSING GUARD S/W

        $          500.00                                                                    

                                                                                                                                                      

Resolution No.        034-2007

OFFERED BY: Corson                      SECONDED BY: Conrad

Adopted:  January 22, 2007

 

ROLL CALL VOTE:

NAME                        YES                NO                  ABSTAINED     ABSENT

Camp            __________       __________               __________     ____X__­____

Conrad         _X________      __________   __________   __________

Corson          _X_________                __________     __________               __________

Newman       _X_________     __________               __________   __________

Palombo       _X_________                __________   __________   __________

 

 

7.      Amending Resolution No. 235-2006 Regarding Budget Transfers.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION NO.       035 -2007

RE:  AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 235-2006 REGARDING

BUDGET TRANSFERS

 

            WHEREAS, budgetary transfers between line items can be made after November 1, and

 

WHEREAS, it is necessary to make transfers between certain line items of the Municipal Budget of the Township of Upper; and

 

WHEREAS, Resolution No. 235-2006 was adopted on December 11, 2006 and contained an inadvertent error; and

 

WHEREAS, this resolution amends and correctly restates the intended terms and provisions of Resolution No. 235-2006.

 

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper as follows:

 

2.      The following transfers between line items in the Municipal Budget of the                         

Township of Upper shall be made immediately.

 

               TO                                                           FROM                                                                             

                                                         

GROUP INSURANCE EMPLOYEES                 SPECIAL LITIGATION                                                                                 

        $    30,000.00                                                                    $     20,000.00

MUNICIPAL CLERK S/W                                  CODIFICATION ORDINANCES O/E

        $      4,500.00                                                                    $      4,500.00

ZONING/CODES S/W                                         FINANCIAL ADMIN. S/W

         $         577.00                                                                    $    10,000.00   

CROSSING GUARD S/W                                    TAX COLLECTION S/W      

         $         350.00                                                                     $     4,000.00    

1ST AID ORGANIZATION S/W                          ASSESSMENT OF TAXES S/W

        $       5,000.00                                                                     $      4,000.00

GARBAGE & TRASH O/E                                  RD. REPAIRS/MAINTENANCE S/W

        $        5,000.00                                                                    $     10,000.00

COMP. ACCUMULATED ABSENCES              RECYCLING S/W

        $       25,000.00                                                                   $      50,000.00

ROAD REPAIRS/MAINTENANCE O/E             GARBAGE & TRASH S/W

        $       50,000.00                                                                   $       15,000.00

BLDG. & GRDS. O/E                                            RECREATION S/W

        $         8,060.94                                                                   $       15,000.00

1ST AID ORGANIZATION O/E                            MUNICIPAL COURT S/W

        $       10,000.00                                                                   $         1,500.00

                                                                                 LIQUIDATION TTL’S

                                                                                                    $         1,000.00

                                                                                 DOG REGULATION O/E

                                                                                                    $         3,000.00

                                                                                 BEACH PATROL S/W

                                                                                                    $            487.94                                                                  

                            

                                                 

Resolution No.   035-2007

OFFERED BY:  Corson                                 SECONDED BY:  Conrad

Adopted:  January 22, 2007

ROLL CALL VOTE:

NAME                        YES                            NO                  ABSTAINED                         ABSENT

Camp               ____________                        __________    __________               ____X__­__

Conrad                        __X_________           __________    __________                __________

Corson             __X_________           __________    __________                __________

Newman          __X_________           _________     __________               __________

Palombo          __X_________            _________      __________              __________

 

 

ORDINANCES

 

  1. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance No. 002-2007 Re:  An Ordinance vacating portions of First Avenue and Lincoln Boulevard as the same appear on

the current Official Tax Map of the Township of Upper, Cape May County, New Jersey.

Motion was made by Jay Newman, second by Frank Conrad to introduce Ordinance No. 002-2007 with Public Hearing set for February 26, 2007 at 4:00 P.M.  During roll call vote all four Committee members present voted in the affirmative.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

O R D I N A N C E

ORDINANCE NO. 002-2007

AN ORDINANCE VACATING PORTIONS OF FIRST AVENUE AND LINCOLN BOULEVARD AS THE SAME APPEAR ON THE CURRENT OFFICIAL TAX MAP OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER, CAPE MAY COUNTY, NEW JERSEY

______________________________________________________

 

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40:67-1 authorizes the Governing Body of a municipality to adopt an Ordinance, among other things, to vacate any street, highway, lane, alley, square, place or park, or any part thereof, dedicated to public use but not accepted by the municipality, whether or not the same, or any portion, has been actually opened or improved; and

WHEREAS, Richard Broschard and Sharon Broschard are the owners of individual tax lots in Tax Block 466 on the current Official Tax Map of the Township of Upper and have requested that the Township vacate certain unimproved streets described in this Ordinance and have agreed to incur all costs and expenses associated therewith; and

WHEREAS, the Township Committee has duly considered the matter and it appears reasonable to agree to the request since there is no present or foreseeable need or intention to construct said sections of roadway; and

WHEREAS, it is deemed to be in the public interest to vacate unimproved portions of First Avenue and Lincoln Boulevard within the Township of Upper, as hereinafter provided.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper, in the County of Cape May and State of New Jersey, as follows:

SECTION 1:  The public right in, along, upon and over the following described land is hereby vacated, surrendered and extinguished:

DESCRIPTION

FOR THE VACATION OF

THOSE UNIMPROVED STREETS

IN THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

COUNTY OF CAPE MAY, AND

STATE OF NEW JERSEY:

 

A.                                            FIRST AVENUE:       That portion of First Avenue from Garfield Boulevard to Broschard Way abutting Block 464, Lots 1 and 2 and Block 465, Lots 1 and 2 and from Broschard Way to Lincoln Boulevard abutting Block 466, Lots 1 and 2 and Block 467, Lots 1 and 2 to the dead end at the property line of Block 472, Lot 3 as shown on the current Official Tax Map of the Township of Upper, Cape May County, New Jersey. No portions of Garfield Boulevard, Broschard Way and Lincoln Boulevard shall be vacated by this Ordinance.

 

B.                                             LINCOLN AVENUE:            That portion of Lincoln Boulevard from the intersection of First Avenue abutting Block 472, Lots 2 and 3 and Block 466, Lots 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 and terminating at Block 466, Lot 16.

 

SECTION 2:  EXCEPTION:  This Ordinance expressly reserves and excepts from vacation all rights and privileges now possessed by public utilities, as defined in R.S. 48:2-13, and by any cable television company, as defined in the "Cable Television Act", P.L. 1972, c. 186, (C.48:5A-1, et seq.), to maintain, repair and replace their existing facilities in, adjacent to, over or under the street, highway, lane, alley, square, place or park, or any part thereof, to be vacated, as hereinabove described.

SECTION 3: COSTS: Richard Broschard and Sharon Broschard must pay to the Township Clerk all costs and expenses associated with this street vacation prior to the final adoption of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4: REPEALER:  All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency only.

 

SECTION 5:  EFFECTIVE DATE:  This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon final adoption and publication as required by law.

 

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE WAS INTRODUCED FOR FIRST READING AT A MEETING OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER HELD ON THE 22nd OF January, 2007 AND WILL BE TAKEN UP FOR CONSIDERATION AS TO FINAL ADOPTION AT A PUBLIC HEARING OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER TO BE HELD ON THE 26th DAY OF February, 2007 AT 4:00 P.M. AT THE TOWNSHIP HALL, TUCKAHOE, NEW JERSEY.

BY ORDER OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER.

 

WANDA GAGLIONE, TOWNSHIP CLERK

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

 

     9.  Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance No. 003-2007 Re:  An Ordinance vacating that portion of Pine Road abutting Block 653.01, Lot 5 and Block 651, Lot 5 as the same appear on the current Official Tax Map of the Township of Upper, Cape May County, New Jersey.

  Motion was made by Curtis Corson, second by Frank Conrad to introduce Ordinance No. 003-2007 with Public Hearing set for February 26, 2007 at 4:00 P.M.  During roll call vote all four Committee members present voted in the affirmative.

 

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

CAPE MAY COUNTY

O R D I N A N C E

ORDINANCE NO.    003-2007

AN ORDINANCE VACATING THAT PORTION OF PINE ROAD

ABUTTING BLOCK 653.01, LOT 5 AND BLOCK 651, LOT 5 AS THE SAME APPEAR ON THE CURRENT OFFICIAL TAX MAP OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER, CAPE MAY COUNTY, NEW JERSEY

______________________________________________________

 

 

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40:67-1 authorizes the Governing Body of a municipality to adopt an Ordinance, among other things, to vacate any street, highway, lane, alley, square, place or park, or any part thereof, dedicated to public use but not accepted by the municipality, whether or not the same, or any portion, has been actually opened or improved; and

WHEREAS, SPC#2, LLC t/a Scarborough Properties is the developer of  individual tax lots in Tax Blocks 653.01 and 651 on the current Official Tax Map of the Township of Upper and has requested that the Township vacate a certain unimproved street described in this Ordinance and has agreed to incur all costs and expenses associated therewith; and

WHEREAS, the Township Committee has duly considered the matter and it appears reasonable to agree to the request since there is no present or foreseeable need or intention to construct said sections of roadway; and

WHEREAS, it is deemed to be in the public interest to vacate unimproved portions of Pine Road within the Township of Upper, as hereinafter provided.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Upper, in the County of Cape May and State of New Jersey, as follows:

SECTION 1:  The public right in, along, upon and over the following described land is hereby vacated, surrendered and extinguished:

DESCRIPTION

FOR THE VACATION OF A PORTION

OF AN UNIMPROVED STREET

IN THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

COUNTY OF CAPE MAY, AND

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

BEING all that certain lot, tract or parcel of land situate in the Township of Upper, County of Cape May and State of New Jersey bound and described as follows:

 

BEGINNING at a concrete monument found at the intersection of the Southwest line of Pine Road and the Northwest terminus of the same (33 feet wide); and extending thence

 

1.         North 52 degrees 18 minutes 30 seconds East, along the said terminus of Pine Road, a distance of 33.00 feet to a point in the Northeast line of Pine Road; thence

 

2.         South 37 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East, along the same, a distance of 61.98 feet to a point in the same; thence

 

3.         South 48 degrees 48 minutes 01 seconds West, crossing Pine Road, a distance of 33.06 feet to a point in the Southwest line of Pine Road; thence

 

4.         North 37 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West, along the same, a distance of 64.00 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.

 

Containing 2,078 square feet.

 

BEING A PORTION of Pine Road in the Township of Upper to be Vacated.

 

SECTION 2:  EXCEPTION:  This Ordinance expressly reserves and excepts from vacation all rights and privileges now possessed by public utilities, as defined in R.S. 48:2-13, and by any cable television company, as defined in the "Cable Television Act", P.L. 1972, c. 186, (C.48:5A-1, et seq.), to maintain, repair and replace their existing facilities in, adjacent to, over or under the street, highway, lane, alley, square, place or park, or any part thereof, to be vacated, as hereinabove described.

SECTION 3: COSTS: SPC#2, LLC t/a Scarborough Properties must pay to the Township Clerk all costs and expenses associated with this street vacation prior to the final adoption of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4: REPEALER:  All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency only.

SECTION 5:  EFFECTIVE DATE:  This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon final adoption and publication as required by law.

 

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE WAS INTRODUCED FOR FIRST READING AT A MEETING OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER HELD ON THE 22nd OF January, 2007 AND WILL BE TAKEN UP FOR CONSIDERATION AS TO FINAL ADOPTION AT A PUBLIC HEARING OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER TO BE HELD ON THE 26th DAY OF February, 2007 AT  4:00 P.M. AT THE TOWNSHIP HALL, TUCKAHOE, NEW JERSEY.

BY ORDER OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER.

 

WANDA GAGLIONE, TOWNSHIP CLERK

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER

 

CORRESPONDENCE

 

10.  Office of Smart Growth-Draft Staff Report and Plan Implementation Agreement on the Upper Township Petition for Plan Endorsement.  Mayor Palombo reported that our Petition for Plan Endorsement is on the January 24th agenda of the Office of Smart Growth for discussion, and he anticipates a recommendation for acceptance.  This is the meeting at which the Smart Growth technical staff presents their recommendations to the Plan Implementation Committee (subcommittee of the Plans Committee).   If the Plan Implementation Committee supports the plan it would recommend that the plan go to the full Planning Commission on February 21, 2007.  The NJ Department of Environmental Protection would then have 90 days to approve our CAFRA Centers.  During that 90-day period the Township will have to approve the environmental assessment ordinance and the land use ordinances proposed in the Master Plan Reexamination and Land Use Element.

 

 

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

     11.  Request from the Church of the Resurrection to hold on premises 50/50 raffle on    2/24/2007 ( RA 313).  Motion by Jay Newman, second by Curtis Corson to grant request to hold raffle.  During roll call vote all four Committee members voted in the affirmative. 

 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

 

  1.  Scott Georgetti, request to purchase Block 625, Lots 5-8, 27-30.  
  2.  Roberta Townsend, request to exchange Township owned Block 625, Lots 1,2,5-8, 26-30, 32-34 for her property at Block 584, Lots 1,4,7,8,9,32 and 34. 

Both requests were discussed together.  Mr. Georgetti is requesting to purchase Township owned property to add to his existing lot in order to build a garage.  There were three lots that prevented him from owning the entire block, Lots 3 & 4, and Lot 31.  Mr. Georgetti has recently purchased Lot 31 for $3500.  Lots 3 & 4 are in foreclosure and cannot be conveyed at this time.

 

Mr. Georgetti stated that it is his intention is to purchase all of the lots in Block 625 and would do so now if they were available. 

 

Mr. Young discussed the second issue and that is that Mrs. Townsend wishes to exchange lots in Block 584 for other lots in Block 625.  She owns a few of the lots in Block 584, and she holds the lien on a few others. She stated that she expects final judgment on the liens within 60 to 90 days.  Mr. Young advised the Committee that they couldn’t sell or exchange property that is not owned.    

 

Mr. Young summarized the situation by saying that Mr. Georgetti owns contiguous property in Block 625 and has agreed to purchase 1-2, 5-8, 26-34.  Mrs. Townsend is asking to trade lots she does not have clear title to and asking us to trade lots the Township does not have clear title to.  Mr. Young advised not to entertain the sale of Block 625, Lots 3 & 4 to anyone until the final judgment, and not to entertain the request for the lot exchange because neither party, (the Township or Mrs. Townsend) have title to many of the lots requested.

 

Mr. Georgetti acknowledges that consolidation with his lots would be a condition of sale and that the property would be sold at fair market value; he would be the only contiguous landowner so there would not be a land auction. The appraisal was prepared prior to the sale of lot 31 which sold for $3500. Mr. Young commented that the Committee is not bound to Mr. Georgetti’s appraisal from Metro Appraisal Co., which listed the lots at a lower figure than the lot 31 sale figure.

 

There was more discussion with Mrs. Townsend about whether a house could be constructed on that section of Block 625 if her request were granted.  Mrs. Townsend is objecting to Mr. Georgetti constructing a garage on that property.  It was discussed that Mr. Georgetti may need variances because the parcel would have multiple front yards.   It was also discussed that there are other lots in the area that would be suitable for an exchange with Mrs. Townsend when the foreclosures are finalized.  Motion was made by Jay Newman, second by Curtis Corson to approve Mr. Georgetti’s request, subject to the following:  1.  Obtaining another appraisal from a company chosen by the Township,  and 2.  That the starting bid be at least $3500 per lot. During roll call vote all four Committee members present voted in the affirmative. 

 

DISCUSSION

 

PAYMENT OF BILLS:

 

            “I hereby move that all claims submitted for payment at this meeting be approved and then incorporated in full in the minutes of this meeting.” Motion by Jay Newman, second by Frank Conrad with the four Committee members present voting in the affirmative. 

 

Bills submitted for payment:  $213,179.83

Payroll:                                    $145,666.28

 

 

REPORT OF MUNICIPAL DEPARTMENTS:

 

14.  Finance Office

15.  MUA Report

16.  Department of Public Works

17.  Tax Assessor

18.  Municipal Court

Reports are available in the Clerk’s Office.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT

 

W. Scott Georgetti, asked about the next procedure to purchase the Township property discussed earlier in the meeting.  Mr. Young will make arrangements for another appraisal with a minimum bid of $3500 per lot.  Mr. Georgetti stated that $3500 was an excessive amount per lot. A title search would be ordered.  Mr. Georgetti will be responsible for all charges.

 

Roberta Townsend, asked if Mr. Georgetti would be allowed to place a garage on this property.  The Committee answered that it was unclear at this time, that Mr. Georgetti would find out when he goes to get the building permits.  There was discussion about lot 32.

 

Marilyn Singleton, Seaville, discussed a letter she previously sent to the Committee regarding sign violations and that some businesses were unfairly treated.  The Mayor stated that the letter and pictures were turned over to the Zoning Officer; she was directed to look into the matter and make sure everyone is in compliance.  Mrs. Singleton stated that her letter may have been misconstrued, that her intention was that businesses need their signs because they are losing business. The Mayor stated businesses are an important part of the Township and asked that the Planning Board look into the ordinance for possible amendments.

 

Ray Lepps, Marmora, also commented on the signs in the Township.  He also discussed a television show on global warming and suggested the generating plant use windmills.  Mr. Conrad commented more on his visit to the Atlantic City Utilities.  There was discussion of adding wind turbines as a permitted use in the Zoning Ordinance. 

 

Elizabeth Bergus, Strathmere, discussed that a resident in Strathmere was prohibited by the NJDEP to install a windmill.

 

CLOSED SESSION

 

Motion to close the regular portion of the meeting and go into an executive session, by Frank Conrad, second by Curtis Corson with all four Committee members present voting in the affirmative.

 

  1.   Resolution to conduct a closed meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12, from                which the public shall be excluded.

 

RECONVENE PUBLIC PORTION OF MEETING

 

Motion was made by Curtis Corson, second by Frank Conrad to hire Theresa Smuz as a full time Clerk Typist to the Finance Office, effective 2/2/2007; and to hire Michele Johnson as a full time Assessing Clerk to the Tax Assessors’s Office , effective 3/1/2007. During roll call vote the four Committee members present voted in the affirmative.

 

Motion was made by Curtis Corson, second by Frank Conrad to approve and sign contracts for Municipal Attorney Daniel Young; and for Conflict Attorneys Joseph Bentley and George Neidig. All five Committee members present voted in the affirmative.

 

ADJOURNMENT-of the regular meeting

There was a ten-minute break before the Budget Workshop commenced.

 

BUDGET WORKSHOP

The worksheets incorporated into these Minutes show the changes made for this evening.

 

The Mayor asked Mr. Corson for his report.  Mr. Corson discussed an addendum received from the Recreation Department showing an $11,000+  figure for an automatic floor scrubber, and wall repairs in the gym.  These items will be placed in with Capital Improvements.  Presently we are approximately $16,000 over cap.  The Committee reviewed each item for possible reductions. 

Under Engineering Services-Smart Growth Expenses-the figure was raised to $30,000. 

First Aid Organization, the figure for Other Expenses was changed to $69,715.

Mr. Corson commented that the State of New Jersey has indicated there would be no funding available to aid municipalities in a Gypsy Moth spray program.  Approximately 2300 acres in Upper Township have been deemed needing the spray, of this 6.5% is State owned, 9.1% is actual Township owned property and the balance is privately owned by approximately 1700 residents.  Other costs would be notification of the 1700 residents, postage alone would be close to $1000.  Mr. Corson stated that the spray areas include certain neighborhoods because residents sent in complaints and the NJ entomologist investigated only those areas.  Only a portion of the Township is included in this acreage and he considers it a private service.  In addition, the State is recommending a double application. The Mayor is also concerned with the shift in the pesticide from Bt to Dimilin, and its safety. Mr. Corson feels that in light of the cost involved and that State and Federal agencies cannot contribute any aid toward a spray program, the homeowner should take responsibility for their property because it is not a service the Township is providing for every homeowner.  He commented that to spend $112,000 and only accommodate 1700 residents is not money well spent.  The Mayor commented that in the past we had the opportunity to be reimbursed by the State, in addition Municipal State Aid has also been cut and our job is to determine how best to allocate the funds we do have.  We do have the responsibility to spray the Township owned property.  Mr. Corson stated that he personally contracts with a company to spray his property to protect his trees.  It was discussed that neighborhoods could go together and hire a contractor.  Liability to the Township, exposure to children waiting at bus stops and tree damage were also discussed.  The figure was omitted.  

Public Buildings & Grounds-Other Expenses-figure changed to $147,000.  The $10,000 increase to be used in case Township property needs to be sprayed.

Recreation-almost no increase in this Department.  Uniforms were discussed in that a standard uniform is provided and the separate teams can upgrade at their expense.

Street Lighting-figure changed to $170,000.  Mr. Newman reported that the Rescue Squad will perform a survey of the Township to identify any streetlights needing repair.  Outages will be reported to the Clerk’s Office.

Insurance-It was discussed that the Liability figure was reduced for this year.

Total Operations figure is $8,187,447.

There was discussion on aid figures to fire and rescue squads, and of the affect on the budget with the removal of the spray program figure.

There was discussion of Curre