Clark Council Tackles Reservoir Project Amidst Community Concerns
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
06/20/2024
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Recording Published:
06/23/2024
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Duration:
98 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Clark
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Clark Town Council meeting, discussions centered on the controversial Clark Reservoir project, which drew considerable public attention. Residents expressed a range of concerns regarding the potential environmental impact, community disruption, and the allocation of funds from the American Rescue Plan. The council addressed residents’ apprehensions, assuring that communication with the county manager was ongoing and that the council was professionally addressing all concerns regarding the project’s scale, safety issues, and the preservation of local tranquility and wildlife.
The council also celebrated community achievements and engagement, starting with a special proclamation for Eagle Scout Anderson Schifferstein for his innovative Lego lending library at the Clark Township Library. Mayor Sal Bonaccorso commended Schifferstein’s leadership and dedication, further acknowledging the significance of community initiatives. Additionally, the Mayor highlighted the importance of safety during the summer months and extended congratulations to recent graduates.
The police department’s monthly report was a focal topic, noting a total of 2,230 calls for May, including 102 ambulance requests, 79 alarm calls, 89 motor vehicle accidents, and 24 adult arrests. The fire department responded to 21 calls within the same month. These reports underscored the ongoing dedication of the township’s emergency services.
The finance committee reported that the township continues to meet its financial obligations, while the pool and recreation department announced the 50th anniversary of the community pool, urging residents to register for the summer recreation program. The library brought forth the advantage of joining a library consortium following the suspension of its catalog.
On the legislative front, the council approved several ordinances and resolutions, including the amendment of construction codes and the submission of a grant application for the Valley Road Improvement project. The council also appointed new members to the Clark Volunteer Fire Department and authorized the tax collector to mail estimated tax bills due to delays in the final tax rate from the state.
A topic of significant interest was the debate surrounding a development project on Westfield Avenue. A council member inquired about the possibility of it being a pilot program, which would depend on the property owner’s request and the planning board’s evaluation. There was opposition to the idea of a pilot program, with concerns about its potential impact on local schools and businesses.
During the public comments section, residents voiced strong opposition to Union County’s project to develop natural preserves into asphalt and playgrounds. One resident emphasized the need to ask the County Commissioners to reconsider the project’s size and scope, while another questioned the use of American Rescue Plan funds. The timing of meetings with the County Commissioners was also challenged, as was the police capacity to manage increased activity in the area.
In response to public comments, the Mayor provided clarifications regarding the reservoir project. The Mayor refuted claims that the council was indifferent to the project. Additionally, the Mayor clarified the project’s details, such as the inclusion of a disc golf course and parking spots.
Emphasizing the importance of community input, a resident proposed adding a meeting at a later date for full participation, while another expressed disappointment in the Mayor’s response, advocating for respectful and responsive engagement from the council.
Sal Bonaccorso
City Council Officials:
Bill Smith, Angel Albanese, Jimmy Minniti, Frank Mazzarella, Patrick O’Connor, Steven Hund, Brian P. Toal
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
06/20/2024
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Recording Published:
06/23/2024
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Duration:
98 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Clark
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