December 16, 2002
Page 1
TOWNSHIP OF MOORESTOWN
REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 16, 2002
The Regular Meeting of the Moorestown Township Council was called to order by Mayor Miller in Town Hall, Conference Room, 111 West Second Street, Moorestown, at 7:30 p.m. on December 16, 2002. Attendance was as follows:
Howard A. Miller, Jr., MayorJohn T. Terry, Township Manager
Kathleen D. Einstein, CouncilmemberThomas J. Merchel, Deputy Manager/CFO
Michael T. Nichols, CouncilmemberPatricia L. Hunt, Township Clerk
Jeffrey P. Harding, CouncilmemberDennis P. Talty, Township Solicitor
Michael Sanyour, CouncilmemberDaniel Roccato, Councilmember Elect
Mayor Miller advised that notice of the meeting had been given in accordance with law.
Mr. Terry reviewed the Official Action agenda. He noted that members of the Historical Society and students, who received awards at the Princeton Model Congress conference, would be present during the Official Action meeting to receive resolutions prepared by Council recognizing their achievements.
Mr. Terry advised that he was in receipt of a letter from Township residents who were concerned about traffic safety at West Second and Locust Streets. The residents have requested a 4-way stop intersection and aggressive police enforcement. Mr. Terry advised Council that the Police Department would be performing traffic counts and placing a speed box at the location. He then briefed Council on the difficulties the Township has experienced with NJDOT in the past when trying to obtain approval for a 4-way stop intersection. He advised of the guidelines and conditions necessary to obtain approval. Mr. Terry advised that the Township Engineer could look in to the matter and make a recommendation in January.
Mr. Terry announced that Council’s reorganization meeting will be held on January 2, 2003 at 8 p.m.
Mr. Talty reviewed the parameters of the lease agreement with the weightlifting club. Mr. Harding commented on what a wonderful organization the club was.
Mr. Terry reviewed the outstanding issues to be discussed with regard to the reorganization meeting. 2003 appointments were discussed; names were suggested. Council expressed a concern with members who had a high absence rate. They discussed adopting meeting attendance standards.
At 8:05 p.m., the discussion session was adjourn and the Official Action meeting was convened in the Council Chambers beginning with a silent prayer and flag salute.
Mr. Sanyour announced that it was his pleasure to present a resolution of recognition to members of the Historical Society for their achievements in preserving and restoring the Tallman House. Mr. Sanyour read the resolution aloud. The resolution commended Marge Ingersoll, Susan Zikmund and Pam and Thomas Parkinson, owners, for their efforts and achievements. Mr. Sanyour presented each with a resolution. Ms. Ingersoll, President of the Society, thanked Council. She said everyone worked hard; it was a great community event; and they raised a lot of money.
Mayor Miller asked Mr. Nichols to present the resolutions to the students involved with the Princeton Model Congress 2002. Mr. Nichols stated that he was very pleased to present the resolutions and he congratulated all who received awards, stating that perhaps one day they will be running for office. Mr. Nichols read the resolution aloud. He then presented each student with a resolution, congratulating them.
Blair Horstein, a student, addressed Council. She thanked Council, the coaches, teachers and all those that supported the students. She then gave Council a briefing of the events that took place at the program.
Mary Ann Ward, 439 Shady Lane, member of the Tree Planting and Preservation Committee, addressed Council. Ms. Ward requested that Council take the Committee’s written recommendations regarding reappointments into consideration. She commended the three members that were up for reappointment, as well as, William Rogers, who resigned. Ms. Ward stated that Mr. Rogers will surely be missed, he was a great asset to the Committee and the community. She asked that Council consider appointing Kristin VanZant to Mr. Rogers’ seat.
Joanne Heal, 149 East Main Street, addressed Council. Ms. Heal complained about debris that is being dumped in front of her property. She advised that she resides in Cape May and has to come to Moorestown to pick up garbage that is dumped anonymously in front of her house. She stated that Public Works will not pick it up due to the fact that it is on private property and there is too much stuff. Mr. Terry advised that the ordinance regulates the amount and that he would speak with the Department about the matter.
Michael Alexandroff addressed Council. Mr. Alexandroff advised Council of the traffic build up that occurs at the intersection of Bridgeboro and Westfield Roads in the mornings. He stated that he and other students are late for school because of the traffic and he asked if there were any traffic light improvements planned in the area. Mr. Terry advised that this intersection is comprised of two county roads and the county is aware of the fact that the intersection is deficient. He advised that the intersection is scheduled to be substantially improved within the next year or so. He advised of the status of the matter. Mr. Alexandroff then complained about the traffic congestion on Stanwick Road in the a.m. Mr. Terry advised that there are no traffic improvements planned on North Stanwick. Mr. Harding advised that these concerns have been discussed by Council and they are seeking alternatives.
Mr. Alexandroff inquired about the status of the purchase of open space in the Township, noting that same would stagger development and help with traffic problems which the Township is experiencing. Mayor Miller provided a response outlining the open space purchases.
Chris Cramer, 305 West Second Street, and his neighbors, addressed Council. Mr. Cramer advised that they are concerned with the speeding and amount of accidents that occur at West Second and Locust Streets. Mr. Cramer gave Council a history of the accidents that have occurred, stating that they are afraid to let their children play out front. They suggested stronger traffic control devices. This matter was discussed at length.
Robert Musgnug, 310 West Second Street, addressed Council. Mr. Musgnug gave suggested road markings.
Donna Graham, 315 West Main Street, addressed Council. Ms. Graham concurred with the concern. She asked if more police presence would be possible.
Jill Musgnug, 310 West Second Street, addressed Council. Ms. Musgnug also concurred with concern. She suggested decreasing the speed limit on Camden Avenue.
Mr. Knobloch, 304 West Second Street, addressed Council. He too concurred with the concerns. He urged Council to improve the area.
This matter was discussed in detail. Many suggestions to slow traffic down were made. Council agreed to initiate some slowing controls, which were not in the jurisdiction of the NJDOT. It was suggested that the group stay in touch with the Township Manager.
Christine Lubert, Stanwick Glen, addressed Council. Ms. Lubert expressed a concern with speeding traffic in her development and recommended that stop signs be erected. She also concurred with the statements of Mr. Alexandroff concerning the traffic congestion at the intersection of Bridgeboro and Westfield.
Elizabeth Hicks, 6 Pepperbush Lane, addressed Council. Ms. Hicks read a letter aloud commending Michael Nichols, Councilmember, for his contributions to the Township. She then thanked Mr. Nichols for his service to the Township. Mr. Sanyour thanked Ms. Hicks advising that Council would like to see Mr. Nichols serve on some committees in town.
Mr. Terry read Resolution Nos. 2-190 through 2-202 aloud.
RESOLUTION 2-190
A RESOLUTION SETTING THE ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULE
OF THE TOWNSHIP COUNCIL OF THE
TOWNSHIP OF MOORESTOWN
A motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Mr. Sanyour, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2-191
RESOLUTION REQESTING COAH TO EXTEND EXPIRING SECOND ROUND SUBSTANTIVE CERTIFICATION
A motion was made by Mr. Nichols, seconded by Mr. Sanyour, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-192
AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF $15,262.50 FROM THE LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOUSING TRUST FUND FOR THE REHABILITATION OF CERTAIN HOUSING UNITS
A motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Mr. Sanyour, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO.2-193
ACCEPTING THE RESIGNATION OF
WILLIAM ROGERS FROM THE
TREE PLANTING AND PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
A motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Mr. Sanyour, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-194
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING
2002 BUDGET APPROPRIATION TRANSFERS
A motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Mr. Sanyour, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-195
AUTHORIZING THE MUNICIPAL REPORT FOR CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE RENEWAL IN THE TOWNSHIP OF MOORESTOWN
A motion was made by Mr. Sanyour, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-196
MAKING VARIOUS MEMBER APPOINTMENT ALTERATIONS ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
A motion was made by Ms. Einstein, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-197
A RESOLUTION TO CANCEL PRIOR YEARS OUTSTANDING CHECKS
A motion was made by Mr. Sanyour, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-198
FOR ADOPTING CHANGES REQUIRED BY
THE ECONOMIC GROWTH AND TAX RELIEF
RECONCILIATION ACT OF 2001 TO AN EXISTING
DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN AND SERVICE AGREEMENT
A motion was made by Ms. Einstein, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-199
AUTHORIZING THE TAX COLLECTOR TO
REFUND TAX OVERPAYMENTS
A motion was made by Mr. Sanyour, seconded by Ms. Einstein, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-200
AUTHORIZING THE CANCELLATION
OF PRIOR YEARS’ TAX OVERPAYMENTS TO SURPLUS
A motion was made by Mr. Sanyour, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-201
AUTHORIZING THE CANCELLATION
OF CERTAIN TAX, AND WATER / SEWER UTILITY CHARGES
A motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Mr. Sanyour, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-202
AUTHORIZING LEASE OF SPACE TO MOORESTOWN WEIGHTLIFTING CLUB
A motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
Mr. Terry advised that the Township Treasurer has submitted its report of investment activities for the 2002 year.
FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1 - DECEMBER 31, 2002The following report depicts the Township of Moorestown's investment activities, and is
submitted to the Township Council for their review in accordance with N.J.S.A.40A:5-15.2.
PURCHASE / TYPE OF / FINANCIAL / INTEREST
DATE / INSTRUMENT / INSTITUTION / TERM / RATE / BASE / PRINCIPAL / FUND
2/1/02 / CD / COMMERCE BK. / 30 / 2.25% / 360 / 5,000,000 / CURRENT
2/6/02 / CD / EQUITY / 30 / 2.25% / 365 / 2,000,000 / CURRENT
2/6/02 / CD / EQUITY / 30 / 2.25% / 365 / 1,200,000 / UTILITY OP.
2/6/02 / CD / EQUITY / 30 / 2.25% / 365 / 100,000 / TR.ASSMT.
3/4/02 / CD / STERLING / 60 / 2.30% / 365 / 2,000,000 / CURRENT
4/23/02 / CD / EQUITY / 30 / 2.35% / 365 / 2,000,000 / GEN.CAP.
5/24/02 / CD / EQUITY / 31 / 2.19% / 365 / 2,000,000 / GEN.CAP.
6/24/02 / CD / EQUITY / 31 / 2.21% / 365 / 2,000,000 / GEN.CAP.
7/25/02 / CD / STERLING / 32 / 2.05% / 365 / 2,000,000 / GEN.CAP.
8/26/02 / CD / STERLING / 32 / 2.10% / 365 / 2,000,000 / GEN.CAP.
9/27/02 / CD / STERLING / 66 / 2.10% / 365 / 2,000,000 / GEN.CAP.
12/2/02 / CD / ALL CLOSED
I hereby certify that the investment activities listed above were conducted in accordance with
N.J.S.A.40A:5-14.
Mrs. Einstein addressed Council and the public advising that this would be Michael Nichols’ last meeting on Council. She recognized Mr. Nichols for his commitment to the community and his support on open space and low density. She stated that Mr. Nichols has a number of wonderful qualities and then she thanked him for his tremendous service.
Mr. Nichols thanked Ms. Einstein and Ms. Hicks. He also thanked the Township staff and volunteers that make the town run. In closing, Mr. Nichols stated that he has enjoyed every minute of his tenure and he deeply appreciates the opportunity to have served the town over the past five years. Mr. Nichols made a few suggestions for improving Council and then he wished all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2003.
Mr. Sanyour thanked Mr. Nichols for his service, stating that the Governing Body would not be letting him retire from public service. Mr. Sanyour stated that Our Lady of Good Council honored his late wife at a recent service and that he was so grateful to Moorestown for recognizing the qualities in his wife.
Mr. Harding commented on the productive year the Township has had. He said the Township is lucky to have the level of professionals it has.
At 9:30 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Harding, seconded by Ms. Einstein, to adjourn the Official Action portion of the meeting and to continue the discussion session of the meeting. The vote was unanimous and the motion carried.
At 9:35 p.m., Council reconvened in the conference room to continue their discussion session.
Council reviewed the winter newsletter. Mr. Terry asked that all comments be given by the end of the week.
Mr. Terry advised that the Township would be renewing its contract with M & R Wildlife Removal, Inc. He noted that although their proposal included a five percent increase, they have done a great job for the Township and they provided the lowest cost proposal.
Continued discussion on 2003 appointments was had. Suggestions for appointments were made. Many were deferred until January.
Under discussion on the Open Space Committee, Mr. Terry recommended that a new resolution appointing members to specific terms be adopted. Council agreed.
Council, once again, discussed members with high absence rates and the concept of setting standards for same. (At this time the batteries on the recording equipment failed and were not replaced due to the fact that the meeting was soon to conclude.) Council reviewed the suggested appointments, and the outstanding appointments.
There being no further business, at 10:50 p.m., a motion was made by Mr. Sanyour, seconded by Mr. Harding, to adjourn. So moved.
PATRICIA L. HUNT
Township Clerk