AUGUST 19, 2022

Message from the Mayor

Last week, the Township Committee took action on two ordinances to address resident concerns and quality of life issues. The first was adoption of an Ordinance to restrict truck traffic on Orchard Street. In recent years, large tractor trailers and other trucks exceeding four (4) tons in weight were using Orchard Street as a cut through from North Avenue to West End and Springfield Avenue or up to Brookside Place to Gallows Hill Road. The Ordinance restricts those type trucks on the entire length of Orchard Street. Trucks making deliveries, pick ups or providing service are still permitted.

  We support the growing trend of composting and remind residents of the Food Waste Composting containers at the Conservation Center and ability to drop off grass clippings and other yard debris (with permit). Unfortunately, some residents are not using containers with lids for backyard composting. This attracts rodents, rats and animals, causing problems in several neighborhoods.

   The Township Committee introduced an Ordinance requiring compost materials be stored in a proper container and at a minimum of 10 feet from the property line to prevent odors, insects, vermin, and rodents.

   As we approach the end of summer, we hope you enjoy the remaining days and wish everyone an enjoyable Labor Day weekend.

Best,

Kathleen Miller Prunty

Mayor

Workshop August 8

• Additional discussion about the proposed “Pay to Play” Ordinance.
• Discussed the proposed composting ordinance.
• Discussed a proposed Ordinance to ban smoking (cigarettes, cigars, cannabis, vaping) on public property. This includes parks, playgrounds, public plazas, school grounds, parking lots and garage. There was agreement to introduce the Ordinance in September.
• Bulk Waste Collection program. The Township did not receive any bids for collection and discussed advising residents to contact their own hauler or use the Westfield Conservation Center for $60 per car load.

Official Meeting August 9

• Presented a Proclamation to Commander Jay Boxwell who was recently elevated to State Commander of the NJ State Veterans of Foreign Wars. Commander Boxwell is a member of Cranford VFW Post 335.
• Adopted Ordinance amending Code to update Land Development Escrow Fees. 5-0.
• Adopted Ordinance restricting trucks over four (4) tons on Orchards Street. 5-0.

Resolutions approved 5-0

• Authorized change order for additional improvements to 375 Centennial Ave Recreation facility.
• Authorized contract for purchase of a front-end loader for Public Works.
• Authorized contract for purchase of 38 SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) equipment for the Fire Department.
• Authorized advertising for bids for roof replacement at the Fire House.
• Authorized grant application for Union County Open Recreation and Historic Preservation Fund/2022 Kids Recreation Trust Fund for improvements at Hillside Avenue Tennis Courts, safe and sustainable surfaces for playgrounds and Dr. Wolfe Reading Garden in Lincoln Park.
• Approved appropriation for the 2022 Union County Public Art/Mural Grant
• Support Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign August 19 -September 5.

Upcoming Meetings

Planning Board Official Meeting: September 7 at 7:30pm

Township Committee Workshop Meeting: September 12 at 7pm

Zoning Board Meeting: September 12 at 7:30pm

Township Committee Official Meeting: September 13 at 7pm

NJ TRANSIT is again welcoming students back to colleges with our special “Buy 3 Months, Get 1 Free” promotion! This offer lets qualifying students save up to $350 over the semester by traveling for free in December after they buy monthly passes in September, October, and November. For more information, visit https://www.njtransit.com/studentpass.