14:54The council engaged in an extensive discussion about the costs associated with environmental testing conducted by GeoWorks. Due to previous environmental findings, additional groundwater testing was deemed necessary. A member noted that the expenses related to these tests seemed never-ending, referring to them as “the gift that keeps on taking.” The proposed cost for the new round of testing was $26,499, with previous payments of around $4,000 already made. Concerns were raised about the potential for escalating costs, prompting the council to explore funding options, including the use of open space funds. Ultimately, a motion to approve additional funding was passed via a roll call vote.

0:00In another significant segment of the meeting, Robert Bole from Planet Networks provided an update on the expansion of high-speed internet in the township. Bole reported that initial permitting delays had been resolved and that permits were now being processed. He highlighted the extensive fundraising efforts required to expand fiber internet throughout Warren, Sussex, and parts of Morris County. Bole acknowledged manpower, time, and financial constraints but expressed optimism about securing necessary funding within 60 days to expedite project completion. He emphasized the community’s need for improved internet service, noting that many residents still struggle with inadequate speeds.

Attention then turned to the introduction of Ordinance 20251, which aims to repeal Chapter 55 of the township code concerning affordable housing. The council discussed the rationale behind this decision, citing a dwindling trust fund balance of approximately $40,000 and the lack of anticipated large-scale commercial development to fund affordable housing. The planner’s recommendation was to discontinue efforts related to affordable housing participation, as it was deemed impractical to invest $20,000 in planning for an unrealistic target. The ordinance seeks to eliminate outdated regulations and fees that no longer align with the township’s current capabilities and needs.

14:54The committee addressed the upcoming elections, with a decision to keep the voting location in its current room for the June 10th elections. The council noted that this location had been effective in encouraging voter participation during the last two elections, and a motion to maintain the voting site was unanimously approved.

The council also approved an application for a fish stocking permit as part of an educational initiative led by New Jersey Trout in the Classroom. The stocking would occur at Footbridge Park, with the proposal deemed straightforward and passing without opposition.

A funding request from the North Warren Garden Club was granted, increasing support from $300 to $350 for their work maintaining flower barrels on Main Street and other entrance areas. This motion passed unanimously.

A letter from the American Legion Post 258 brought attention to the Union Brick Cemetery’s maintenance, as the organization could no longer upkeep due to aging members. This prompted a discussion about the community’s responsibility to ensure proper cemetery care, including the potential selling of plots for maintenance funding.

0:00The meeting also featured the appointment of Brian Rosem, a local historian, to the Historic Preservation Committee, where his extensive knowledge and community connections were recognized as vital contributions.

14:54The topic of the Jones Farm restoration was revisited, with a focus on disassembling cement stave silos. A suggestion to involve local Amish individuals, specifically someone named Steve Belton, was made to assist with the dismantling process. Despite progress, one member expressed frustration with the ongoing discussions, remarking, “I’m tired of talking about the Jones Farm; it’s not finished.”