There was no one who presented during the public hearing on agenda items.

The announcement was that the Senate President awarded the Township $250,000, which will go towards the lower Columbia repairs.

A shared service agreement with Springfield Township for the CFO and Qualified Purchasing Agent was discussed.  Donnelly raised that the hours listed are 15, but the individual being appointed gives priority to Springfield Township and questioned if 15 hours is enough.  Council members and Mayor commented that being the appointee is a BH resident they believe 15 hours is more than efficient.  No questions on tenure – meant to protect the independent oversight nature of the position – were raised.

Resolution appointing professional services contract to Negila Engineering for repairs to Old Farm Road.  Donnelly raised that the contract mentions repairs to Deerpath Road, but the resolution should not include Deerpath. Resolution passes with the exclusion of Deerpath Lane.  A later resolution was approved for improvements to Crest Drive.

Resolution to authorize referendum to the election ballot (Nov 5, 2024) for the Township to assume responsibility for lower Columbia field.  There will be one question on the ballot for the $1 transfer for the long term lease.  Mayor commented this proposal would open up opportunities for the Township to apply for grants that the Board of Education would not be eligible for.  There was no discussion in connection to liability or revenue sharing with the schools.

Following the unanimous passing of all resolutions, the council moved on to their council reports.

Other Notes on the 06/25/2024 Meeting:

No Difference in Berkeley Heights Political Parties

Wag The Dog

Questions the Rec Department & Town Council Should Answer Before Asking Our Schools for the CMS Field