Edison Town Council Approves Development of Angel Field Soccer Park and Restoration of Stelton Community Center
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
01/24/2024
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Recording Published:
01/24/2024
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Duration:
154 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Edison
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Edison Town Council meeting, the development of new soccer fields at Angel Field and the restoration of the Stelton Community Center were the focal points. The council unanimously passed a resolution to adopt a State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Park development enabling grant for the Angel Field soccer project. A letter from the Edison Township open space advisory committee, presented by Walter Stoal, recommended a park master plan that includes a non-automobile access route connecting to the Edison Train Station and Rutgers Livingston Campus. The council also discussed the restoration of the Stelton Community Center, with plans for the entire renovation including retrofitting spaces for various community services.
The council began the meeting by discussing the potential impact of the new soccer fields on Kilmer Road. The advisory committee’s letter, presented by Mr. Stoal, emphasized the importance of integrating the fields into a larger park system and ensuring maintenance and preservation of the site’s historical and environmental aspects. Council members supported these recommendations, noting the benefits for the community, especially the preference for natural grass fields. The resolution to support the Green Acres Program matching grant for the project passed unanimously.
Mayor Sam Joshi outlined a plan to reserve public comments for residents and enforce deadlines for discussion items. The council approved a motion to enter a closed session to discuss a settlement agreement. Unfinished business included an ordinance canceling certain bonds to create a capital surplus. The council then addressed a bond ordinance for capital improvements, including the Stelton Community Center restoration. The open space committee supported the restoration and recommended preserving architectural elements and expanding Stelton Park. The council approved the bond ordinance after a public hearing.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the discussion of a Bond Ordinance for water utility improvements, appropriating 9.5 million dollars. The council clarified the necessity of the ordinance before applying for I Bank funds and emphasized the importance of addressing water system issues. Councilman Poyner highlighted the significance of the funds for improving firehouses, road message signs, and a backup generator for the municipal building. The ordinance was approved for further consideration and public hearing.
Other ordinances introduced for consideration included amending no stopping or standing zones on Brower Avenue and creating a Cultural Arts Commission. An ordinance providing for a township-wide water meter replacement project, appropriating 8,850,000 dollars, was also introduced for public hearing.
The meeting also discussed a settlement agreement between Seeing Cedarlane LLC and the township. Councilwoman Margot Harris requested transparency in spending, with receipts and vouchers available for public access. Concerns were raised about the necessity of hiring a municipal website consultant, with Councilman Brescher questioning the expenditure.
Tensions emerged during the discussion of a settlement with a developer, with Councilman Brescher highlighting the impact on residents and the challenges faced by the township in legal disputes. Councilman Patil and Councilman Poyner voiced their concerns and support, respectively, emphasizing the need to resolve the issue.
Public input included invitations to community events and updates on initiatives. A contentious moment arose when Ben accused the Edison police of misconduct, leading to a tense exchange with Councilman Coyle.
Concerns raised by residents included allegations of falsified police reports, issues with streets paved in 2022, and transportation services for seniors. The council assured that legal counsel and the engineering team were reviewing some issues and promised to address concerns.
Councilman Anthony DiLonardo discussed public safety concerns and suggested re-establishing a community policing program. Councilman Robert Diehl debated the limitations on rebuttals during public comments. The council president defended the decision to limit speaking time.
Sam Joshi
City Council Officials:
Richard Brescher, Joseph A. Coyle, Ajay Patil, John H. Poyner, Asaf Shmuel, Margot Harris, Nishith Patel
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
01/24/2024
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Recording Published:
01/24/2024
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Duration:
154 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Edison
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