WEBVTT METADATA Video-Count: 1 Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=NDnZTUab6_s NOTE MEETING SECTIONS: Part 1 (Video ID: NDnZTUab6_s): - 00:00:05: Meeting Call to Order and Roll Call - 00:01:51: Public Comment: Ramp Design, Bird Blind, Bird Walk - 00:03:50: Discussion on Bird Blind Accessibility and Improvements - 00:05:59: Approval of Minutes and Hunting Summary Report Discussion - 00:09:09: Restriction on State-Owned Property Leases, Bird Habitat - 00:13:33: Discussion and Motion to Send Letter on Hay Harvesting - 00:21:58: Letter Approved, Depradation Permits and Deer Control - 00:27:18: Update on Open Space and Recreation Plan - 00:30:55: Discussion of Survey Objectives and Scope - 00:35:15: County Trails Grant Program: Accessibility Improvements, Tactile Maps - 00:41:27: 3D Printer Discussion and Potential Benefits - 00:44:26: Walking Sticks, Cost Estimates, Grant Money, and Accessibility - 00:47:18: National Trails Day and Updates from Other Committees - 00:50:14: Tow Path Crossing, Lighting, Tree Cutting, Road Conditions - 00:53:27: Environmental Commission: Shade Tree Ordinance, Wetland Delineation - 00:56:44: Updates from Ted, DNR Canal Watch Meeting, and Recommendations - 00:58:11: Updates from Vanessa, Trails Committee, and Partnering - 01:02:00: Franklin 250 Events, Memorial Day Parade, Speakers - 01:07:48: Old Business: Meadows Foundation Review, Roof Damage - 01:09:27: Eagle Scout Project Recognition and Trail Signage - 01:12:11: Consultants Monthly Activity Report and Meeting Adjournment Part: 1 1 00:00:05.120 --> 00:00:21.680 This meeting of the Franklin Township Public Space Advisory Committee is called pursuit to the provision provisions of the open space public meetings act. Uh this meeting of May 19th, 2026 was included in the list of meeting notices sent advertised in local 2 00:00:21.680 --> 00:00:37.600 newspapers posted on the bulletin board in the municipal building posted on the municipal website and has remained continuously posted as the required notices under the statute. In addition, a copy of this notice is and has been available to the public and is on file 3 00:00:37.600 --> 00:00:54.480 in the office of the municipal clerk. >> Thank you so much. the roll call. >> Yeah. Do the roll call, please. >> Okay. Bottle court >> here. I guess >> I see him here. You're here. Bill Connell is coming late, right? 4 00:00:54.480 --> 00:01:09.600 >> He he hopes to be here. >> Okay. Ted Chase >> here. Total >> here. Steven >> here. >> Here. Mayor Kramer here. >> Mary Law. I'm pretty sure he's going to be absent tonight. 5 00:01:09.600 --> 00:01:26.880 Okay. Um, uh, Dina Lux. >> You saw her in. Okay. Uh, John Moon >> here. >> Bob Husk >> here. >> Bob Warlocker is going to be absent. >> And Councilman Singh, I think, is going 6 00:01:26.880 --> 00:01:51.840 to be absent as well as far as I know. >> All right. Um, >> oh, and John Herling, I'm sorry. You both got tonight. >> Okay. Um, motion to open to the public. So, >> second I've been I know that the pedigree the 7 00:01:51.840 --> 00:02:10.319 ramp for the handicap is in very bad shape and I think I can come up with a design for it but I probably has to be approved by the township engineer. I will do that if we have any. 8 00:02:10.319 --> 00:02:27.680 Um, also people were complaining about the the blind not being completed. It's basically completed. I didn't open up either side because all you saw were weeds. I kind of opened the bottom up 9 00:02:27.680 --> 00:02:43.519 for the little kids. I went and bought a saw, poured a saw just to do that. And I don't know about the roof when that's going to get done. I would I'd asked for some stain so I could stain it 10 00:02:43.519 --> 00:03:00.000 so it would last longer. But we let a walk on Sunday at John Clyde. We heard lots of birds. We only saw a few. They were the trees are way too high. We have to find another 11 00:03:00.000 --> 00:03:14.800 spot to do that at. And as I mentioned earlier, there's a I'm leading a walk for the trails committee on June 6th at Negri, 12 00:03:14.800 --> 00:03:30.879 but the website has May 6th on it. >> Okay, I'll get that fixed. >> Hey, how are you? >> So, you have that you can fix that. Okay. By the way, my address is 20 Magnolia Road, Somerset, New Jersey. 13 00:03:30.879 --> 00:03:50.239 Most people know me. I show up here now. >> Okay, that's all I can think. >> Thank you. >> Can I ask Can I ask a question about the bird line? >> Can I ask him a question about the bird line? >> Sure. >> Um, so thank you first of all for doing 14 00:03:50.239 --> 00:04:06.239 all the work that you did. I know you said you've put the um the cutout in for kids. It's also for right drafts. >> I have to do that. I have to put It's not in yet. >> Oh, it's not in yet. Okay, >> I will do that. >> Okay. Okay. I just wanted to Yeah, that um one of the things we're working on in 15 00:04:06.239 --> 00:04:20.959 trails is like, you know, really increasing accessibility and like Negri is our premier accessible trail and we want to make sure the bird blind, you know, continues to be accessible. >> Yes, there's I have no problem with that. In fact, you should probably 16 00:04:20.959 --> 00:04:38.320 extend the walkway for wheelchairs all the way around. >> That's actually on Well, that's on our plan. We're applying for a grant so we could do that. >> Okay. Cuz I will leave a wheelchair bird. I have no problem as soon as we 17 00:04:38.320 --> 00:04:53.680 get >> access to it. >> That's awesome. >> I know there used to also be a cutout in the fence at like sitting height like so. Is that something that's general? >> It's under general >> because the cattails have grown up. 18 00:04:53.680 --> 00:05:10.400 What we need to do is probably this summer is get in there with shovels and dig the cattails out so people can see the water. But that would be a lot of work. >> You have any water? >> Oh, there's plenty of water there right now. 19 00:05:10.400 --> 00:05:27.280 >> But it's going down. But we're supposed to get more rain, I guess, Monday or Wednesday night. >> This weekend. >> Yeah. Monday. >> Yeah, I know. I know. Um, what is supposed to be? >> Any anybody else? Uh, 20 00:05:27.280 --> 00:05:43.360 >> thank you, Vanessa. Um, so the grant application has been submitted for that. >> No, we're working on it. >> Okay. >> So, because it's it's I think we talked about the agenda later, but because it's basically for an ADA compliant extension of the ADA, it's on here. 21 00:05:43.360 --> 00:05:59.520 >> Yeah, I'll tell you. We'll talk about that. Okay. >> Um, anybody else? Motion to close public. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Second. 22 00:05:59.520 --> 00:06:16.240 >> Approval of the April uh 2026 meeting minutes. >> I don't have the April minutes from Bill. So I guess we can table them. >> That's fine. New business hunting summary report. 23 00:06:16.240 --> 00:06:32.319 >> Did I go over the hunting summary report? I didn't go over it last time, right? I went over it with trails. I think or the a advisory. I don't think I went over with this group, right? Okay. So, um, as of right now, I have 90 out of 157 responses in. So, that's after 24 00:06:32.319 --> 00:06:48.960 just one email of basically saying like, I need your responses right away. So, I'll send another one out. But based on 90 out of 157, um, we have a total of 100. I'm sorry, I got a total of I'm trying to read about these glasses, but 25 00:06:48.960 --> 00:07:05.199 let me just do it. Um, we have a total of 139 deer so far across all of our hunting sites. Um the number one site right now is 10 Mile Run with 32. And then we have Butler Road with 28. County 26 00:07:05.199 --> 00:07:21.599 Route 518 property with 16. And then Wilson number four with eight. And Weston is the fifth place. I only do up to five with six deer. Um we can go through each site if you'd like, but basically the report has all of the deer 27 00:07:21.599 --> 00:07:37.280 by sight here and by season. So you can see this season is in red. There's a total of 30 the 30 right now with the newest um reports submitted. At county Route 518 there was 16. Deonten there was 14. 28 00:07:37.280 --> 00:07:51.120 Elizabeth AB five. That's one of our smaller sites. Uh four at Negri Napody and I did receive reports that have to be input still which I will 10mi run there was a total of 32. 29 00:07:51.120 --> 00:08:08.560 Willow road 5, Wilson Road 12, Weston Road 6, and then we have the leased farmer property. So right now I don't have any reports from Memorial yet. Uh Turon the lease there. There was six reported so far. Nothing on Scott yet. 30 00:08:08.560 --> 00:08:24.240 And on Dun we have five. And on Gunther 4. So that's kind of the breakdown. And just so you know, we can look at it by season. So season 1, for example, is September 13th through October 31st. So you can see here the number of antler lists on all the sites and the number of 31 00:08:24.240 --> 00:08:39.519 bucks for the total and what the percentage is of the full total. So by season. So the most successful season was the first season which is again September 13th through October 31st. Um so that's kind of the report. So we can 32 00:08:39.519 --> 00:08:54.320 post it online, but what I would like to do is send out one more email basically saying, you know, if you don't send your report, you're not going to get your permit next year. That usually gets me at least some more, you know, in and then uh if we get to 100 at least 33 00:08:54.320 --> 00:09:09.920 submitted back, that's pretty good. >> That's fine. >> That's good. >> I'll just drop the box, I guess. >> That's it. >> We're working on soon. >> Okay. Thank you. Um restrictions on 34 00:09:09.920 --> 00:09:27.600 stateowned property leases. >> Do you want to start talking about this, Bob, or do you want me to start off? we start off and I can fill in the blanks. >> Okay. So, at the last um advisory committee meeting which was in the beginning of the month, um Bob Huskus had brought up two issues that he would 35 00:09:27.600 --> 00:09:44.320 like to see us, you know, basically provide feedback to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection on. So, I'll take them one at a time. The first is limitations that exist in the leases for agricultural lands that are stateowned lands. So on stateowned 36 00:09:44.320 --> 00:09:59.360 lands that are leased to farmers, there's a limitation in there that says farmers who grow hay cannot harvest it before July 15th. The reason that this is in there is because it's supposed to be providing kind of like a habitat or a 37 00:09:59.360 --> 00:10:15.440 nesting place or a stopover place for birds. Correct. >> Um nesting birds. Correct. So when we were speaking at the a advisory committee meeting, obviously this is not optimal for farmers because they're leasing the property for agriculture to 38 00:10:15.440 --> 00:10:31.040 grow hay to sell hay and they're not able to harvest it off until July 15th. So the a advisory committee discussed it and wanted to send a letter to the DP commissioner basically saying that that now that renewals of leases are coming 39 00:10:31.040 --> 00:10:46.399 back out that that limitation should be extracted from the leases so that farmers are not required to wait until July 15th to take the hay off. Does that basically cover it or >> Yeah. And in each each lease they they tell you how many how many acres you hay 40 00:10:46.399 --> 00:11:02.399 you can plant and then they tell you they can't harvest it till actually it's mulch hay and it's been in the leases in the past but you know we try to get it out so renewals they were due up end of the last year and some county had the same thing in their leases and they did 41 00:11:02.399 --> 00:11:22.079 and there's no last go around they yanked it out at least there's enough spots for the birds to nest they don't have to put the almonds on the farmer's back it's a it's an economic hardship because the hay is not worth anything out July 15th. It's mulch. >> So, so basically I prepared a letter on 42 00:11:22.079 --> 00:11:37.040 all of those notes. You can see it up here on the screen. Um the beginning part is kind of like an entryway basically saying, you know, that the leasing of stateowned lands is really important for the agricultural industry in New Jersey. uh it allows farmers to 43 00:11:37.040 --> 00:11:54.000 expand their act operations, generate muchneeded income, and that they're providing stewardship and land management practices for the stateowned lands, which wouldn't be done if farmers weren't leasing them. Then I talk about what the restriction is, which I already told you guys about. And we say what Bob said, which is this restriction creates 44 00:11:54.000 --> 00:12:09.760 an incredible economic hardship for the farmer and leaseholder as the agricultural product being produced in this instance, hay, cannot be sold, it should say before July 15th, which reduces project income and delays further production. So then it basically 45 00:12:09.760 --> 00:12:25.120 says we the Franklin Township A Advisory Committee. Although I wanted to ask you Bob, should I do you want a letter to go from the A advisory committee and the open space committee or do you want one letter from both? How do you want that to work? 46 00:12:25.120 --> 00:12:41.040 >> Any any of both two letters. >> Okay. >> So we can do that. >> Two letters is better than one. >> And this should be projected income. Okay. Cool. Mom, when do you have to start cutting the hay >> for me? 47 00:12:41.040 --> 00:12:57.120 >> When do you have to start cutting the hay? >> Usually Memorial Day weekend. >> I cut we bail hay today. >> Well, is this also your wheat? >> I mean, your wheat comes up. 48 00:12:57.120 --> 00:13:14.639 >> There's no restriction on row crops, just on the hay crops. >> Okay. So, the A advisory already made a motion to send the letter, which we can, but I think we're looking for a motion to send this letter to D, and I would change it from the Franklin Township A Advisory 49 00:13:14.639 --> 00:13:33.360 Committee to the Franklin Township Open Space Advisory Committee so that two letters get sent basically saying that it would be good to have the restriction removed. >> Make a motion. >> Motion second. >> All in favor? 50 00:13:33.360 --> 00:13:50.560 I see >> any discussion. >> I have to speak up for the nesting birds. >> Okay. >> And ideally there was some sort of survey by an experienced bird watcher was often 51 00:13:50.560 --> 00:14:08.000 times you find that only very restricted areas where baba links is typically a major concern because >> they're the ones that hover, right? Uh yeah, I think they do. And they do tend to nest in 52 00:14:08.000 --> 00:14:25.120 quite a number of pairs in a quite a fairly small area. So if if areas where the bobblings were nesting could be protected from hanging than the rest could be. But of course this requires 53 00:14:25.120 --> 00:14:43.279 somebody going and looking. Do they have options to nest up in other places? Well, there are various any sort of hay field anywhere whether it is 54 00:14:43.279 --> 00:15:04.480 being used commercially or just growing grass and say John Clyde and others I mean neighboring is known for grasshopper and I I often observe grasshopper 55 00:15:04.480 --> 00:15:21.360 sparrows in a big state own big field at the corner of Cord main south of middle bush. So, but and if you're a bird and they come along and mow 56 00:15:21.360 --> 00:15:37.120 mow the grass, you probably destroy the nest as well as not leaving cover for the birds to forage and hide in. >> How many acres would say be for hay 57 00:15:37.120 --> 00:15:53.519 versus what what Ted is saying? >> Well, I say each lease is different. I don't exactly see what it all say, but there's 3,3500 acres of ground in six milei run and there's about 9 maybe 1,000 of them being farmed and there's probably maybe Rexam has a lot of hay in 58 00:15:53.519 --> 00:16:08.399 this propert. I don't know exactly how many acres he has there, but he's he's hurt worse because all he does is grow hay. And um but you know, Ottabbon has spent thousands of dollars like cuz I was involved. They seated two or 300 acres of ground in Franklin, let it all go. 59 00:16:08.399 --> 00:16:25.040 It's all growing back in the trees and stuff now. So, they're not worried about the birds. There are there are some grass areas where they still left there. There's they're nesting there. So, there's plenty of spots for the birds to nest other than the farmer's hay fields. Well, different birds nest in different 60 00:16:25.040 --> 00:16:42.560 places. Well, New Jersey Conservation Foundation, for instance, found one specific area and fields that they just preserve where the bobber links were nesting. So, they they actually paid a the farmer who was 61 00:16:42.560 --> 00:17:01.199 otherwise hanging to not lo the area where modeling were nesting. But how would you know if they're nesting or not nesting? >> Well, somebody has to go and look. The birds 62 00:17:01.199 --> 00:17:16.720 look over 100 acres. >> Well, you probably walk around whether you walk around the edges or depending how big the field is down the middle. Uh you 63 00:17:16.720 --> 00:17:35.440 don't don't have to step set foot on every acre. certainly >> what if the state were to I'm thinking of some kind of cut your rate and plant just for numbers 5 acres and 64 00:17:35.440 --> 00:17:52.880 mow 4 acres is that do you see a formula there that would work but still still it's still on our back because we got to plan it we got to take care of it you know it's Not it's not cheap $1,000 a ton for fertilizer on his 65 00:17:52.880 --> 00:18:12.480 hay fields and maybe leave it for mulch and like I say >> amount is not >> negative pod was nothing but road crops until the town bought it. Now the birds are nesting there. So I mean that had to be there before us too when there was road crops there. So now we we cut six six acres right by our 66 00:18:12.480 --> 00:18:28.480 house. Didn't see a single bird come out of it. I cut it the other day. I didn't see a single bird come flying out of it. And I I just planted 100 acres of soybeans on grass grassy stuff that we mowed early on. The grass was about that high out 100 acres. I saw two birds fly out of it and and they were just I call 67 00:18:28.480 --> 00:18:46.799 chippies sparrows. They weren't nothing special. I'm getting an education on birds rather quickly. >> His wife Mr. Williams his wife >> his wife is a very good burger. So, 68 00:18:46.799 --> 00:19:03.440 >> did you have a question, Vanessa? >> I was going to ask just about like the birds and like if there's anything that we could do to, you know, accommodate or just um are there other spaces for the birds? Um just to take that into consideration. Um I just curious as far as like the 69 00:19:03.440 --> 00:19:19.039 county. So, the county has already made this >> they took it out of leases this last go around this past this past spring. >> And do we know what they've done to address the nesting birds? They they said there's enough grass that join in the farmer's fields to to nest in it. 70 00:19:19.039 --> 00:19:36.160 >> So this is a separate area basically. >> Well, same as six mile run. You got we got hay fields and you know we already got to rotate the fields too. So it's not the same as every every spot. You used to have hay behind your house. Right. >> Right. >> They rotate the hay out. So you move it around. So I mean there's there's plenty of spots in six mile run that birds can 71 00:19:36.160 --> 00:19:58.240 nest other than farmers fields. It seems like there >> I don't know enough about birds to know that. Like I I don't know if they're like particular to look around. You can see there's a ton of open space for them to >> Oh, no. No. I understand that. >> And do we even know the percentage of 72 00:19:58.240 --> 00:20:14.880 birds even affected supposedly by this? Do we have any? >> No. I'm not sure. It sounds like it's very negligible unless people have really hard numbers that they're an endangered species and can't adapt. But it sounds like they're 73 00:20:14.880 --> 00:20:30.240 adaptable and we have space. >> You're basically looking if their eggs are there before you chop them all up for scrambled. >> I guess what I was trying to ask >> bad storm knocks them right out. I mean, 74 00:20:30.240 --> 00:20:47.120 I have birds in my trees and some years they got knocked out by really bad spring storms. Sometimes >> they're nesting in the ground. >> The bobble inks nest in the ground. They don't nest in the trees. 75 00:20:47.120 --> 00:21:04.240 >> Yes. >> There are >> I I to me this is they're a danger and we have space. I know I'm not supposed to speak, but there are programs out there that you can play to listen for the birds because sometimes you don't hear, but this 76 00:21:04.240 --> 00:21:19.840 program picks them up. Uh, it's Merlin. It's called Merlin. And, you know, it picks up birds that you can't that you don't see that I know are there. >> Yeah, that's a good resource to go out 77 00:21:19.840 --> 00:21:36.799 and verify that there's no birds in the field before you mow it. >> Yeah, that's a great idea. of my ears. At my age, I can't hear grasshopper sparrows anymore. >> Neither can I. >> I have to see them. >> But Merlin picks it up. >> Yeah, Merlin would pick it up. 78 00:21:36.799 --> 00:21:56.200 >> Okay. There. Okay. Um there's a motion and there was a second. Any more discussion? All I guess all those in favor? opposed. 79 00:21:58.080 --> 00:22:23.600 >> Okay. You just piss off both the sides. >> All right. Okay. So, that one then will get sent. I'll just change the signature, Bob, and I'll get it to you. I'll get that one to you later. Okay. Um the second letter is related to the 80 00:22:23.600 --> 00:22:41.200 farmer depradation permits. So um farmers in the past have been allowed to get deer depradation permits, meaning that on their site they can hunt 24 hours a day, 7 days a week because it's for the purpose of protecting the agricultural product and basically as 81 00:22:41.200 --> 00:23:00.240 like a a land management practice. Um, uh, there's talk, I guess, right now that they're, um, well, let me back up for a minute. I'm having a problem articulating this cuz me and Bob talked about this on the phone before, and I'm like, how do I say this? Um, 82 00:23:00.240 --> 00:23:14.960 last year, restrictions for the allowable there. Okay, so last year there was restrictions placed on the deer depradation permits. In the past, it was 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Last year that allowance was removed. Am I right in saying that? 83 00:23:14.960 --> 00:23:30.960 >> They they uh took the permit away from us September the 12th cuz postseason started September the 13th. The state's infinite wisdom said that the bow hunters are going to control the deer. >> Correct. >> And at 160 permits issued by the state, there was 30 deer shot last count I had 84 00:23:30.960 --> 00:23:47.200 from them. So they're not controlling the bow hunters will not control the deer. So this letter is to the DP commissioner basically saying that the farmer deer depradation permits should the reinstatement of the 24 hours a day 85 00:23:47.200 --> 00:24:04.320 should happen uh with the permits in the upcoming season and moving forward. I I had a conversation with the D commissioner about this and he got back to me and he says, "Well, it was um fishing fish in council changed that rule and somebody told me the story cuz 86 00:24:04.320 --> 00:24:20.559 when this rule came about, I was on the council. We never voted on it. It was never it was never a vote taken by council. This was all done. If you go on the website, it'll uh permit website, it'll tell you that the permits are available 24/7." >> It does. Yeah, it does. And I reference 87 00:24:20.559 --> 00:24:36.159 that website in the in the letter as well. >> And I had a letter stating that when my le I had a 5-year agreement with the state that I could get one of these permits, it ran out when the leases ran out in December of 25. In September or 88 00:24:36.159 --> 00:24:51.760 over the summer of 25, they put the restrictions on it and they didn't care what the letter said. >> So you can't do it 24/7 now. >> We we applied in January for new permits because you got to renew them every year. We haven't heard and we had this year we had to send them usually send them to Fish and Wildlife to the 89 00:24:51.760 --> 00:25:15.120 conservation officer and they they check out who's on the list and they make sure everybody got licensed up for stuff and no we had to send them down to D. Haven't heard back in haven't heard back from him at all. you know, it's it's actually curtailing 90 00:25:15.120 --> 00:25:31.200 our program because the deer aren't being shot on six mile and we don't shoot them in the woods. We shoot them in the fields where the crops are. We don't, you know, we don't hunt them in the woods and um and most of the time we do it at night. Probably 80% of it done at night with with spotting scopes and and flood lights. 91 00:25:31.200 --> 00:25:49.760 >> I hear it. But uh >> so the a advisory committee is going to send a letter basically saying that you know the in the permits for farmers it should be the 24/7 allowance. And so that's what this letter basically says. 92 00:25:49.760 --> 00:26:05.200 Same thing. >> You see what else they're missing is that you know come September the crops are still growing. You know soybeans don't get brown until the frost hits them. And what and they get brown is the wildlife still feeds in the corn. your corn might be up and the beans might be up till depending on the weather in J 93 00:26:05.200 --> 00:26:23.440 till January. Who knows? And and and actually the best time to pull a herd is over the winter months because when you after breeding season you shoot a double, you're shooting more than one carrying triplet twins and triplets. 94 00:26:23.440 --> 00:26:41.279 >> I don't think we need anything from open space. >> They're going to handle it, right? >> You want a letter as well from open space? He was like a letter sent as well from open space. >> You want that from open space? >> Sure. >> Well, I mean the point here is 95 00:26:41.279 --> 00:26:57.200 there's a lot of concern about what the deer do to the forest, eating the seedlings so the forest don't regenerate. If a deer is shot for depradation on farmland, that's one less that goes back into the woods to eat the 96 00:26:57.200 --> 00:27:18.559 seedling. So, I'm completely with Bob on this. >> Make a motion. >> I'll second it. >> Discussion. >> All those in favor? >> I posted. 97 00:27:18.559 --> 00:27:41.840 >> All right. I'll finish the drafting of it and I'll get it out for the signatures. Old business. >> Old business. So, the updating of the open space and recreation plan. Stephen, Mark and I met um a few weeks 98 00:27:41.840 --> 00:27:58.240 ago, I guess, at this point. Two weeks, maybe a week. >> Yes. >> Um so, we are working, the three of us together to actually start the drafting of it at this point. So, the plan of attack is that Stephen is putting together a survey that will go out to 99 00:27:58.240 --> 00:28:14.480 residents um be posted online. Anybody from the public can take it and it'll be about mostly recreation programming, right? Um that's available and then I will be able to add in some questions related to open space preservation needs, wants, you know, uses, etc. 100 00:28:14.480 --> 00:28:30.320 That'll go out to the public. While that's going on, in the meantime, I'm going to be going through I've already developed like a general outline of what we need to do and what we have to meet the green acres requirements as well as to add some planning elements in. So, uh 101 00:28:30.320 --> 00:28:45.840 Mark and I have gone through that. I'm going to now start going through and actually like drafting the parts of the plan. So, I'll be working on that like as in the background as much as possible. Um and then Mark is really going to be kind of in charge of like the outreach to everybody. So the goal 102 00:28:45.840 --> 00:29:03.440 is in two months time we would have some type of draft. I cannot promise it'll be a full draft but we will have something that we can actually present to the public and get feedback on because the idea is is that you know if we just stand in front of the public and have absolutely nothing to show them 103 00:29:03.440 --> 00:29:20.640 then it's really not a guided or productive conversation. So this will allow us to kind of show them what we're working on and we can get feedback at that point. Do you have anything to add? desire. >> You know, I mean, I think that that nails it on the head and and our survey will include because it crosses over um 104 00:29:20.640 --> 00:29:38.000 facilities that recreation uses both what we do programmatically and then some of our organizations certainly are youth sports and other organizations involved, what they, you know, what they use and kind of their perspective of >> needs and and wants um and demands. that 105 00:29:38.000 --> 00:29:54.000 doesn't include youth. That doesn't not only include youth organizations, but we have a pretty heavy adult sports, especially our cricket folks. Um, so that will include some of those >> and summer camps, I guess, and everything, right? Yeah. >> So, yeah, because it's an open space and recreation plan. So, it's it's all in 106 00:29:54.000 --> 00:30:08.559 one, but we need to, you know, like coordinate them, but Steven's really taking the lead obviously on that part. And, um, yeah, but there will be overlaps obviously. So, that's our our idea. So, we tried to like divvy up the work and make it so we have something 107 00:30:08.559 --> 00:30:24.159 that we can present. Basically, all the mapping is going to have to be updated. The good news is is that when Trails did their pathways and trails plan last year, all of the GIS data actually became GIS data. Before it was kind of 108 00:30:24.159 --> 00:30:40.080 just like drawn lines. So, now it's actually coordinated to points on the Earth. So, we can just put those trails on there. We don't need to fix anything. We've updated our farmland data, our open space preservation data. So, we have updated data. We just need new maps 109 00:30:40.080 --> 00:30:55.600 made. So, that's that should be actually relatively easy and our IT department will do that. I think that basically covers it. Does anyone have any questions on that or >> Yes. Um, so the survey so the what's the 110 00:30:55.600 --> 00:31:12.320 objective of the survey? >> I'm sorry. >> What's the objective of the survey? So the objective as I think we mentioned in last meeting back in correct me if I'm from 2012 we did a master plan the objective of the survey is to start getting information because we've gone 111 00:31:12.320 --> 00:31:28.960 you know almost 15 years since that plan to now see what the the needs and wants are of the community. Um, and for us, right, recreation where it crosses over with you all obviously is the facilities that are used, especially from the outdoor perspective, but for us, and again, selfishly because we have that 112 00:31:28.960 --> 00:31:44.399 that population that uses both is also to see not only those that use those facilities for for us just generally, but also programmatically, like Tara mentioned, our camps, some of our other programs that we use throughout the year, um, to get an idea of, okay, what 113 00:31:44.399 --> 00:32:01.360 are either some needs that we're missing in these programs, but also programs that maybe we're not doing that there is interest and we should be taking that those steps to go ahead and introduce those programs. >> Okay. >> And but um it's basically you're asking people like near where they live are 114 00:32:01.360 --> 00:32:17.440 there x y and z resources available to them >> from a from a facility standpoint. Yes. And and the facilities that they're accessing that we have now you know what do they like about them? What do they want to see? What's the quality for them as well? >> Okay. and um but there's not a way for 115 00:32:17.440 --> 00:32:32.080 them to like know what's out there that maybe they're not aware of. Right. It's just kind of it's it's based on what their knowledge is currently, not necessarily what what's offered through rack. >> I mean, there could be. So, I'm thinking about 116 00:32:32.080 --> 00:32:48.320 from like a facility perspective, right? And it's the balance that Tara, myself, and Mark talked about like you don't want you don't want to do a you don't want survey exhaustion. You don't want to do 25 minute survey cuz you're not going to get the data. find that happy medium of getting the quality but not 117 00:32:48.320 --> 00:33:04.000 overexhausting that time. But I think to your point, right, somebody may not know, you know, where Delar Park is and that that existed over in Franklin Park. >> So, could there be a piece that says, you know, do you like rate these facilities or do are are you aware of 118 00:33:04.000 --> 00:33:19.120 these facilities? And it could be a yes or no of like here are all the parks or here are all the open spaces and then you get that information. >> People don't know where John Clim is. Right. >> Right. Right. Right. Or I'm even thinking just like simply as if they're entering a ward they live in and they're answering and they're saying no, they 119 00:33:19.120 --> 00:33:35.039 don't have access, but you know there is this park in this ward. I'm just curious because I know that sometimes that's been an issue is people just not aware. >> Yeah. Of what's near them. >> Yeah. Thank you. >> Yeah. >> That would probably one of the answers, right, Stephen? Like not aware. And we might get a bunch of we did it at the local health assessment when we were did 120 00:33:35.039 --> 00:33:50.320 the survey for that and when we got a lot of answers that said like people are not aware that was like something we took like okay well we need to advertise this better. we need to >> use different types of advertising. So that actually could be valuable as well, you know. 121 00:33:50.320 --> 00:34:06.880 >> And I know we have plans to update our website as well because it needs an update and well from a visual perspective, new pictures cuz things change naturally. But I think to your point like how do you go ahead and know where things are if you don't know that 122 00:34:06.880 --> 00:34:22.960 they exist? So that kind of helps us tie into updating the website of getting that information saying, "Okay, these people may not have an idea if this exists and these features exist in this park." So how do we how do we feature them either through a program or just making sure that people are aware that 123 00:34:22.960 --> 00:34:39.599 they exist? >> Thank you. >> When you do this mapping, will you also show county owned and stateowned plans? >> Yes. public about them or they may know about 124 00:34:39.599 --> 00:34:54.800 them but not quite know where they are. It will. Yeah, we'll differentiate them with like different colors or hatching, but yeah, we will absolutely show other planning is only for township open space. 125 00:34:54.800 --> 00:35:15.280 >> Yeah, I agree with you. >> When we did the update for the pathways and trails plan, we included the county open space and the and the um state and I think that was that was smart. So, yeah, we absolutely will do that. Y um county trails grant program. 126 00:35:15.280 --> 00:35:32.240 >> So the trails committee met uh last week I guess it was right. Yeah. And um we talked well we went into detail about the summers county trails grant program. So what we're working on is extending the handicapped accessible trail. So the blue trail at Negrina Pot that leads 127 00:35:32.240 --> 00:35:47.599 from the parking lot and goes to the bird blind. The idea is to extend it completely around the yellow trail. And we're also going to put in an option there for a shorter version in case, you know, topography becomes an issue or too much money. So, we're working on that. 128 00:35:47.599 --> 00:36:05.119 Um that includes the um rehab of the ramp that goes to the bird blind, the ADA compliant trail surface material, which is really the crushed red stone, um some other amenities along that trail. And then we also started looking at not just mobility 129 00:36:05.119 --> 00:36:21.599 um not just people that are living with difficulties with mobility but also people have visual impairment really because in the last few weeks I've actually gotten quite a few emails about um people are interested in ways to navigate our trails if you have visual impairment. So we came up with the idea 130 00:36:21.599 --> 00:36:38.640 of putting uh of developing these tactile maps. I don't know if anyone's ever seen them, but you can develop a tactile map that you keep at the site. And I talked to our IT department and we have the software actually, which is really cool. When I talked to our GIS guy, his name is at he was so excited 131 00:36:38.640 --> 00:36:54.880 cuz he's like, "We have this software. We can do it." You know, he's like, "I know how to do it, but we don't have the thing to print it, a 3D printer." So, right now, we're investigating the cost of a 3D printer and if we should use >> How big is a 3D printer? I'm not sure actually because I don't know much about 132 00:36:54.880 --> 00:37:10.960 3D printers. So, I'm in the process, right? Oh, you have a 3D printer? >> Yeah, it's about that big. >> Oh, so this would be for like a larger scale map. But the thing we were thinking is this is that because the trails grant would potentially allow us to purchase a 3D printer with the grant 133 00:37:10.960 --> 00:37:27.520 money. We could use that 3D printer to print tactile maps for all of our preserves so that anyone that goes anywhere could could use navigate with that map. So, we're considering should we buy a 3D printer or there's a company that you can just order the made the 134 00:37:27.520 --> 00:37:43.040 maps made from. So, we're in the process of right now comparing costs. So, that was one thing. The other thing was promoting um apps that allow people to hear and navigate what's going on around them using their smartphone. So, that's not really any money. That's just 135 00:37:43.040 --> 00:37:58.560 advertising. And then we're also thinking of guided, you know, things that can help guide thing people through there. So, like at the National Park Service, um, one thing that they're doing now is they are buying walking sticks and leaving them there at the 136 00:37:58.560 --> 00:38:14.800 kiosk so that people can use them. Sometimes they put guide wires, which we wouldn't do that. Um, guided tours like auditory tours. So, we're really trying to make it not just because our original pitch was we want to make it, you know, friendly for people that are um living 137 00:38:14.800 --> 00:38:31.599 with mobility disabilities basically, but then we started thinking and you know, we can expand it really for people with other types of disabilities as well. >> There are some towns who are doing that now talking to Chris. >> Yes. So, so that's so we're working on it. Just the only thing we need is we're 138 00:38:31.599 --> 00:38:48.560 working on getting cost estimates from DPW about I mean I did a very basic cost estimate for the materials but we really need a more legit cost estimate and I know some of the trails people are working on the the 3D printing kind of uh situation to see what's going on. So 139 00:38:48.560 --> 00:39:04.560 we have kind of a skeleton of it together and as soon as we can input the I did the mapping already. So as soon as we can input the cost, then we can, you know, request the meeting with the county. So Oh, and you had a question. >> When you were talking about tactile maps, 140 00:39:04.560 --> 00:39:20.560 >> yes. >> Um, does that >> is that like a topographical map and >> show, >> you know, it does ups and downs, hills and stuff like that? >> Yeah. So we have the software, >> elevations. >> Yes, we have the software to actually create it and you can put the trail on 141 00:39:20.560 --> 00:39:35.920 it as well as well. So the trail would feel differently. But yeah, there's topography. Um areas that get I get like, you know, have divots or high or lower, you'll be able to do that. And because we have the software, if something changes, we can 142 00:39:35.920 --> 00:39:51.839 redo it. We can redo it. So So that's really good that we have the software here. That's like a huge lift because we have a person too who can do it, which is good. >> But I would put in for the 3D. >> I thought so too. Right. Yeah. Because if we can get a large scale printer, we 143 00:39:51.839 --> 00:40:06.960 can print tactile maps at all of our trails locations, but even like Steven for the even for the um like the facilities and stuff, we could use that there. >> Yeah, >> we could have the youth center if there's like we could use it for as long 144 00:40:06.960 --> 00:40:22.800 as you have some type of latitude, longitude, top, you can use it. So I think I think >> they do have some money. So >> definitely I would definitely do that. >> And we get a nice one. Yeah. Is there a capability to produce 145 00:40:22.800 --> 00:40:36.720 different I would put it sort of qualities of surface you know rough or smooth or hairy or some something >> that would indicate 146 00:40:36.720 --> 00:40:53.839 >> not only where you are but what kind of I mean is it forest or is it grassland? Oh yeah. I'm not sure. >> I'm not sure. >> We're hearing about the trees and bushes and things like that also. >> Yeah. I mean, there's definitely So, 147 00:40:53.839 --> 00:41:09.839 there will be a legend there as well, you know, and there's different shapes that are used, I guess, for like tree groves and um kiosks or bird blinds, you know, but I don't know about type like surface types, but that's a good question. We could definitely >> That's what I thought of when you said 148 00:41:09.839 --> 00:41:27.119 tactile maps. Yeah, I could absolutely ask um at about it. So >> maybe nobody's ever done that, but >> I don't know. It's a good It's a good point. >> You could pretty much do anything you can think of in 3D. >> You can't do something like this with a 149 00:41:27.119 --> 00:41:43.040 long overhang like that because there's nothing to support it. But you can you can definitely do different textures. >> You just might have to update it every so often. over there. You know, that would be the other, you know what I mean? That's the 150 00:41:43.040 --> 00:41:59.119 >> But that would be the benefit of having a 3D printer. And that's the argument we can probably make is that we have the software and we have the data. So, if we have the printer, if something changes, we can print off a new map instead of having to wait for to send out the map. Yeah, 151 00:41:59.119 --> 00:42:15.119 >> definitely. That is >> well I think in the long run too it will be worth it cuz we looked it up and if to send it out to the company we figured out one like 11 by7 map like you put in the kiosk I think it was like $60. So over time it adds up, you know, it's like having the printer >> definitely and then if you have to keep 152 00:42:15.119 --> 00:42:31.280 updating it too >> and you might even want to um see if some of the schools want it or something or >> Yeah. educational, you know, I think amazing and >> yeah, >> I don't know if you can sell that stuff, but I mean you could merch it out 153 00:42:31.280 --> 00:42:48.560 almost. I mean >> yeah, >> you know, I think people would be interested in that. And how would the maps be stored to be available to the people and not to the weather? >> So yes, so that is something we have to work on. So we probably need like a 154 00:42:48.560 --> 00:43:04.720 holder of some kind that closes to put on the kiosk. We know we can we can put one in the kiosk, but yeah, we need that's like something we need to figure out once we figure out how big is the map. Well, now that it seems like everyone's interested maybe in the 3D printer, that actually solves a lot of 155 00:43:04.720 --> 00:43:20.480 our >> Well, I think a big argument for the 3D printer is that you can print replacement maps. >> Correct. Yeah. Correct. Absolutely. >> Yeah. And we thought that it'd be beneficial for the township to have in general. >> Yeah. Absolutely. Oh, yeah. The township 156 00:43:20.480 --> 00:43:36.240 could use it. Yeah. >> You're not in this grant, you're not sure you can buy a printer with that or we can or >> We would like to. Yeah, we would like to. And I think we can. We have to make an argument for buying equipment, but I think that we have a good argument, which is that we would need a 3D printer 157 00:43:36.240 --> 00:43:52.319 so we can keep it up to date because there's nothing worse than a map that's out of date, especially for someone who is living with a visual impairment. That's going to be the worst thing ever. So, we want to make sure it stays up to date. >> And the printers aren't that expensive. It's the It's the um Oh, the paper, whatever you print, 158 00:43:52.319 --> 00:44:07.040 >> right? It's the product that you use to produce the maps. >> Correct. >> Just like with your printer, I don't ink. >> Yeah, exactly. Yeah. So, that's where we're at. So, any you have anything to add, Vanessa, or >> No, we're just excited. This something we've been talking about for a long 159 00:44:07.040 --> 00:44:26.319 time. Um just really wanting to increase >> increase the um accessibility >> of of the trail. So, I think that this does, you know, >> go. I agree. >> I agree. I think it'll be good. So, we're working on it, but I do need the cost estimates from DPW to finish it. 160 00:44:26.319 --> 00:44:41.680 So, we're waiting on that. And where would the walking sticks be? Did you decide on them? I like that idea. >> I like the walking sticks, too. And I know a lot of people are would be concerned potentially that they would get stolen. That was that's the first thing I hear a lot, which is okay. But 161 00:44:41.680 --> 00:44:57.920 the National Park Service is not experiencing a lot of theft of the walking sticks, which is great. It we could get like a holder and put them by the chaos um and see how it goes. You know, >> it goes engraved property of Franklin. We could 162 00:44:57.920 --> 00:45:13.119 we could Yes, we could print something on the 3 3D printer and like attach it to it so that you know >> chip in it, >> right? Yeah. Engraver, too. >> Yeah, I think that would be a nice idea. I like to make a motion this committee spend up to $2,000 to buy a printer. 163 00:45:13.119 --> 00:45:29.119 >> 3D printer. >> 3D printer. >> The open space >> for the grant. This is through the Somerset County grant. Oh, you're saying buy it >> from this committee to use in the trails. >> Yeah, >> you use it for a lot more than the trails. to a 3D printer can make all kinds of stuff with them. You probably 164 00:45:29.119 --> 00:45:45.440 make a walk and stick with it. >> But if the grant covers it, that won't be needed. But maybe if the grant doesn't cover it, then open space could do it. >> If you get the grant, you can use the grant for other the money from that for something else, can't you? >> Well, the grant can be really big. >> Yeah, it can be. Yeah. >> Right now, Terra's telling us that like 165 00:45:45.440 --> 00:46:01.359 >> why don't we have a second? I'll have a second and now we'll have discussion. >> Sure. >> All right. We have a motion and a second. So discuss. I I agree with what you said, Vanessa, which is we can apply for it through the grant and say the grant kicks it out, they might apply everything else and 166 00:46:01.359 --> 00:46:18.079 kick it out, then yes, maybe then we have this motion that's approved and ready to go, which is great because I think the grant might cover it. I think we have a very good chance of it covering it. >> I'll find out. >> Yeah, I think I think it'll work. >> That would be a recommendation to 167 00:46:18.079 --> 00:46:34.160 council. >> Yes, that's the recommendation to council. Yes, correct. Yeah. >> Bob, make your motion for recommendation to the council, please. >> If we don't get the grant, >> if the grant won't cover it, I make a motion that we spend up to $2,000 from 168 00:46:34.160 --> 00:46:49.119 this committees from the open space trust fund to buy a 3D printer. >> I'll second that. >> Any more discussion? All those in favor? >> Opposed? Okay, 169 00:46:49.119 --> 00:47:04.560 >> I like it. So, yes. So, we'll get all these cost estimates back and hopefully we can send it off. >> How fast would would the grant be? And and let's say that for instance, we we got a 170 00:47:04.560 --> 00:47:19.520 >> 3D printer in a month. Would that work or you still have too much to do >> to submit the grant? You mean in a month? I think we can submit the grants in a month. Yes. >> And how quick is the turnaround time? I think the county once you get before the county it's probably a month because 171 00:47:19.520 --> 00:47:35.359 they're approved but we have 18 months to spend the grant. So from the time we are executed till like you know the grant runs out we have 18 months. >> All right. National trails day. >> Uh national trails day is on Saturday 172 00:47:35.359 --> 00:47:52.319 June 6th. It's at Negri Napot. Uh as Chris Williams said he's going to lead a walk uh birdwalk um and it's to celebrate National Trails Day. So, it's on the American Hiking Society's website. Um, I there's a you can request like some free material from 173 00:47:52.319 --> 00:48:07.520 them. I think it's like stickers and things like that. I requested I haven't received anything yet, but we'll see. Vanessa, I brought the maps. They're here. So, um, so Vanessa will be there, some of our other trails members, and we do it every year, and uh, it's on our website, and you can register through 174 00:48:07.520 --> 00:48:22.480 Reces, and I checked and it says June 6th every year. >> Yeah, I was that if it was May 6th, that would have taken place. >> It was not. on the website. Maybe you see it on the website it says May 6th everywhere and it says June 6th everywhere. So yeah, >> I know what sometimes happens with the 175 00:48:22.480 --> 00:48:37.760 website is if it was inputed one way and then updated it stays in, you know, it stays empty and stays that way unless you refresh, but >> No, it's right. So we're good. >> Um Okay. Uh updates from other 176 00:48:37.760 --> 00:48:52.800 committees. >> Do you have an update, Paul, or >> short? Pleasure. >> Um, last night the commission, the environmental commission reviewed only three site plans, which we haven't had any in weeks. Uh, but these were all 177 00:48:52.800 --> 00:49:08.400 residential applications. Uh, one was to put a a almost ground level deck behind the house. Uh, there was one from Habitat of Humanity and another one was a subdivision for for make three lots. One has a house on it. Evidently, they 178 00:49:08.400 --> 00:49:23.280 want to make the other lots available for houses, but these are very narrow lots. So there's not much buffer room and and that kind of stuff. Um we also received a letter from an engineering firm asking for a letter of delination 179 00:49:23.280 --> 00:49:39.520 of wetlands for 200 Franklin Square Drive. Uh that's this site was for the North America headquarters at Philips Lighting from 1986 to a few years ago. That's started in that building in uh ' 87 and when I retired they were still 180 00:49:39.520 --> 00:49:56.559 going. So they moved maybe about three, four years ago, but it gradually got lower and lower. We had we had like it was four stories. We probably had close to thousand people in it when it started. Um so anyway, somebody wants to do something with it. Otherwise, you won't send a letter in. 181 00:49:56.559 --> 00:50:14.240 >> The building is Yeah. It's a fourstory building. >> Yeah. >> With the cafeteria and everything. >> The plan's not in yet, but when we get it Yeah. We'll see. And um also um oh I've been working on getting a a warning crossing at the uh 182 00:50:14.240 --> 00:50:28.640 tow path with the county and I got a a update from um Air Shamiri. She's the assistant county engineer and she says we are currently still waiting for the 183 00:50:28.640 --> 00:50:45.920 uh T& species list and the 200 ft property list. I'm told that the 200 foot list should be received by Friday and the T& list will be within the next two weeks. Once received, the applications will be ready to submit. That'll go to the D, I think, for final 184 00:50:45.920 --> 00:51:02.240 approval. What we asked for originally were solar powered uh lights that would flush when somebody pressed the button and wanted to cross say from northbound to pass to southbound, it would flash the lights so oncoming cars would know somebody wants to wait. And uh it's 185 00:51:02.240 --> 00:51:18.480 taken five years, >> right? >> And we're happy. I saw my email from 2021 sorting this. Um but maybe >> not quick at the golf course. >> That'll be good though to have there. Yeah, >> sounds like it's getting there. I heard they were going to cut down some trees 186 00:51:18.480 --> 00:51:34.079 to improve improve the vision line cuz when you're coming down Western Canal Road and you make the turn to go over the causeway, you don't know somebody's waiting to cross until you make the turn. and you got Jim on the brakes if somebody's out there. One person's been killed in that intersection and there's 187 00:51:34.079 --> 00:51:50.240 been some accidents. >> So when I made the presentation to the county, >> you blame it on the engineer that designed that wide sweep. >> Yeah. Yeah. Well, and Western Road is our road then part of it is still called Western 10our Road, but that comes to So 188 00:51:50.240 --> 00:52:07.280 you got three different jurisdictions. Everybody goes like this, you know, and finally the county picked it up. Um, I talked to head of the Dr. Canal. He said he'd put the the vinyl stripes on, but he's retired, so I don't know who's going to put the crossing stripes on. 189 00:52:07.280 --> 00:52:22.800 But Bob Wacher said he would put a um a pipe in the gully alongside Western or part of Western Canal Road for the water to flow and pave over it so people coming out of that footpath from Canal Walk can walk on the on the new slide 190 00:52:22.800 --> 00:52:39.040 and not on the road. what they're going to do when they get to the corner and then want to go toward the toe path. I'm not sure yet, but uh Melanie Moroy from the county, she's also helping me and she she she 191 00:52:39.040 --> 00:52:55.839 called the we keep in touch as to where where the county is. Well, that's >> draining that along western well, let's call it the the township 192 00:52:55.839 --> 00:53:12.240 owned part of Western canal road >> uh is quite a problem. I think we had a stream cleanup there once. >> Bob got a quote for $5,000 to put the pipe in and $30,000 for the engineering study. 193 00:53:12.240 --> 00:53:27.359 >> He wimp us heard that. But it's getting there and there's money. I think a couple years ago they put money in the budget for it but it hasn't happened yet. >> So we'll see what happens. Maybe this year. >> Thank you. 194 00:53:27.359 --> 00:53:45.440 Tara Bob. We also discussed last night at uh the environment meeting >> um recommendations the uh the shade tree committee I believe has passed on to uh the manager um changes in the township ordinance 195 00:53:45.440 --> 00:54:02.079 regarding uh the price of replacement trees to the trust run by developers. Um as you recall it wasn't done for 10 years. Then we finally did it from $30 a tree to $300 a tree. It's supposed to be reviewed every year by the um by the 196 00:54:02.079 --> 00:54:18.880 engineering department. And since that changed 3 years ago, there hasn't been a review. That hasn't been a change. So, we're still hoping to get that taken care of. Um also we had uh made a recommendation for a change in the 197 00:54:18.880 --> 00:54:36.000 definition of a tree >> um in the ordinance where it says uh a tree is um is defined by it being uh 3 ft from the trunk 4 in diameter 198 00:54:36.000 --> 00:54:52.720 um or 4 in caliper. And one thing is it's interchangeable. Some places it says caliper, some places it says diameter. One thing is we think it should be just one word used. Um caliper is a piece of 199 00:54:52.720 --> 00:55:07.680 equipment that measures a diameter. But sometimes a diameter is called a caliper. So we should use just one word. But the other thing is that if if a tree is defined as 4 in in diameter, then 200 00:55:07.680 --> 00:55:24.400 when the developers plant trees on sites as they're required to and the requirement says they must be at least 2 and 1/2 in um at 3 ft from the ground. Well, what they're planting by definition is not a tree. 201 00:55:24.400 --> 00:55:40.160 >> Correct. >> Yep, that makes sense. So, we're looking to get that changed so that the definition is 2 and 12 in, >> right? So, it's consistent. Yeah, if that makes sense. >> Not to mention, when there's a survey taken as to how many trees are removed from a site, 202 00:55:40.160 --> 00:55:54.240 >> right? >> Um, they're only looking at trees by definition that are 4 in in diameter. >> Right. Correct. >> That's definition 4 in. Uh if you load the 2 and 1/2 in, then any tree that's 2 203 00:55:54.240 --> 00:56:11.359 1/2 in in diameter or more should also be counted towards those that are being taken down. >> Yeah. >> So that's something that shade tree has been pushing for a while. >> The B9 ordinance that came out on first reading Monday that uses the 2 and 1/2 204 00:56:11.359 --> 00:56:29.040 in caliper. It's mentioned in the in in >> that was for the replacement tree. So they're following the existing ordinance which says that you can replace it with 2.5 but what Arie is saying is when trees are counted they're only counting those that are 4 in and above. So J tree wants to get it so that when you count 205 00:56:29.040 --> 00:56:44.079 trees it's 2.5 and you replace trees with 2.5 cuz right now the count is not reflecting >> the talks about 2 and 1/2 in. >> Correct. Right. Yeah. Thank you Arie. >> Okay. Anybody else? 206 00:56:44.079 --> 00:57:02.640 something I might just mention mainly because Mike Orsini just sent out uh an email which I know Tara got, the mayor got and I got but they said he said pass it on to others. uh June 28th 2 o'clock 207 00:57:02.640 --> 00:57:21.599 in the afternoon the DNR Canal Watch of which I am on the board um has its annual meeting and John I'm trying to remember his name though >> ah it's here annual meeting 208 00:57:21.599 --> 00:57:37.920 at the Fellowship Hall of Griggstown Reform Church John Hutchinson >> Hutcherson yeah anyway is going to talk about uh updating the master plan for the DNR Canal State Park since a great 209 00:57:37.920 --> 00:57:54.160 deal of that is in Franklin Township. He Mike recommends that we have a a good attendance at that meeting. Yeah, >> my comment as a board member is it'll materially increase the number of people 210 00:57:54.160 --> 00:58:11.520 in attend attendance I think but we certainly want to be able to make recommendations. Uh a few years ago I was on a small committee to look at the the master plan 211 00:58:11.520 --> 00:58:28.240 because it's an original master plan from the 1970s that not very much has been done with. Although my reaction was it's a good master plan. We just need to carry out what it suggests. But I want 212 00:58:28.240 --> 00:58:45.359 to look at it again for um the prison effort. Hope it goes further than the last one did. >> Right. >> Thank you, Ted. >> Thank you, Ted. Vanessa. >> Um yeah, so the Tara already mentioned a 213 00:58:45.359 --> 00:59:01.520 couple things um regarding trails. Um just to add on to that, we are continuing our partnership with the astronomy club and um they they have had they put in a request. I don't know T if you've shared that or not that request yet about >> I shared it with the township manager. Okay. So I haven't heard back yet but we 214 00:59:01.520 --> 00:59:18.079 can share here. Yeah. >> Yeah. So they're just requesting because of the weather sometimes they have permission now to go on Friday evenings to to do the watching but if the weather's not a cooperative they're asking to have Saturday as an alternative. So for us to approve that they can do that. That seemed reasonable to us that uh that they could do that. 215 00:59:18.079 --> 00:59:33.920 Um the weather is an issue. They're going to be holding an event on August 12th for a meteor shower. Um there's also going to be a solar eclipse. We won't see the solar eclipse, but there's also a solar eclipse that evening. So, we plan to do a hike um on that date uh 216 00:59:33.920 --> 00:59:49.599 in in partnership with them. It's >> always cloudy. >> What's the date? >> Um August 12th. And uh we are having our annual Firefly hike on July 11th. So, um mark your calendars for that. And we're actually 217 00:59:49.599 --> 01:00:05.280 doing something um new and uh we're going to do a basically like a history hike. So inspired by Franklin 250 um we're going to do a hike and we're going to the plan is like for like a 30 a 30 218 01:00:05.280 --> 01:00:20.640 minute hike um on the Kingston Loop Trail to Rockingham and then we'll have nature history commentary um followed by a tour of the building and then a walk back. So, it'll be about 2 hours total 219 01:00:20.640 --> 01:00:37.920 um in uh for the event. Um and the we're going to call it uh walking in George Washington's footsteps and just you know taking advantage of some of the local history. Um and Patrick Murray who is on our committee is a historian as well. 220 01:00:37.920 --> 01:00:53.119 And so we tapped into his expertise and his relationships and he's pulling this together. Um so we're looking forward to to that. Um, >> Patrick spoke to me about that. >> Oh, good. Yeah. Someone on our committee recommended that he reach out to you, 221 01:00:53.119 --> 01:01:10.079 which he did. Okay, good. Good. Uh, said the Dutch barn will also be open for folks to rest in the shade if needed. So, we haven't finalized a date yet for that. We're looking um we're looking at on committee wise um the dates. So, we're looking at like either July 25th, August 1st, or 8th, but we'll get back 222 01:01:10.079 --> 01:01:26.559 to you once that date is selected. But, we're excited. We're excited about uh about this hike. Did you get a hold of Paul from Rockingham? >> He did. >> He did. Yep. He met with him. >> Um, they already have like a, you know, a connection. So, uh, yeah. So, he, >> if you need help with that, you can do 223 01:01:26.559 --> 01:01:44.640 that. >> Yeah. Paul said they can accommodate a large group if needed, um, by starting us in different rooms if if necessary. Um, no admission charge for this partner program. So, thought that was really nice as well. >> And, um, yeah, that's it. 224 01:01:44.640 --> 01:02:00.400 Okay, very good. >> Um, >> I think Bob has done an update. >> Well, when we're done with this, I got to something bring an old business to go back to. >> So, before we get too far along, I just want to try remember there's something we got to bring up. 225 01:02:00.400 --> 01:02:16.880 >> Okay. Um, you want to say anything about 250, the three or four events we have, or you want me to do it? >> You I can save your voice if you'd like. >> I'm sorry. >> I can save your voice if you would like. Go ahead. >> Okay. Um do you you want Memorial Day 226 01:02:16.880 --> 01:02:31.839 parade first or do you want to >> Monday's Memorial Day? We're hoping for good weather. Um you can talk the other stuff. Um but we have um cars. We're going to have leading the parade will be 227 01:02:31.839 --> 01:02:50.079 a uh soldier private forget his name. Anyway, he's going to be dressed. Little Matthew will be with his 13 stars. Okay. Um, he actually went to a couple events. Every I don't know if any everybody knows little Matthew 228 01:02:50.079 --> 01:03:06.000 with the kid is always with the stars in he's gone to every single 250 event. >> Okay. Um he was in a uh Ro Shambo Washington Ro Shambo thing they did on 229 01:03:06.000 --> 01:03:23.799 the weekend which they actually did all the the whole trail and he's in it which is pretty neat. Okay. >> Um so Memorial Day is going to be nice. We're going to have a nice uh set of cars and stuff. Um 230 01:03:24.400 --> 01:03:42.319 the 250 will start with uh the 13 stars and then the police uh honor guard and then the uh sheriff's department and then council and then we'll go on as we go along with junior ROTC and um the uh 231 01:03:42.319 --> 01:03:57.520 the band and then everybody else after that. So it'll be nice and then all the fire trucks that we have in town. So that's Memorial Day. Um, and the one guest speaker is 232 01:03:57.520 --> 01:04:14.720 John Hurt Hurt who is his seventh generation grandfather was George Washington's first chaplain. >> So he will be speaking as as our guest speaker. That'll be very interesting. I 233 01:04:14.720 --> 01:04:31.839 he did he did Veterans Day, so he's really a fabulous speaker, but I'm I can't talk anymore. >> He's fine. Um June 20th, which is a Saturday, is uh the Blenberg band. Um they're a band out of Belme, the Blunderberg area. Um they'll be doing patriotic music out on the Gazebo. 234 01:04:31.839 --> 01:04:48.319 That's 6 6 p.m. 6 p.m. Um that's 6 p.m. free obviously. So again, come out, bring your lawn chair, um enjoy some patriotic music. Um, again, June 20th. Fast forward uh less than two weeks after that is our Fourth of July celebration, which obviously is 235 01:04:48.319 --> 01:05:05.440 inherently celebrating America 250. So that's July 2nd. Um, have some nice things planned for that. We have um so we'll lead off with our township band at 6 p.m., but at 7:00 p.m. um we have the Army National Guard band coming um to play patriotic music. So really, really 236 01:05:05.440 --> 01:05:21.200 fortunate that we have that group coming mainly because it's July 2nd. So, it's a good day that it worked out for us. Um, so they'll be our main performer from 7 to 9:00 p.m. out of the gazebo. We'll obviously have our fireworks display afterwards. Um, Franklin 250 will be 237 01:05:21.200 --> 01:05:36.480 there. Um, and and I know they have, if you haven't gotten their first set of coins, there's not many left. Am I right? >> The first set of coins, there's less than 200. And the second set of coins is less now than 700. >> And we'll we'll have them at both of Yes. Y 238 01:05:36.480 --> 01:05:52.400 >> So, so definitely and not get we we root for good weather. >> It owes us from last year. Um >> that's a big help for funding future events. >> Yeah. Um I'll I'll jump to Somerset Patriots in a second, but before that, 239 01:05:52.400 --> 01:06:10.640 the day after July 3rd, um if you have nothing to do, go to the Somerset Patriots game. And the reason why I bring that up is because uh Franklin 250 is the uh raffle beneficiary for that day. So, if you have nothing to do, um, go out, go see some fireworks there. Um, 240 01:06:10.640 --> 01:06:26.960 get a 50/50 raffle ticket cuz it helps us and then maybe you win some money. Um, but that's July 3rd that Franklin 250 is the beneficiary. So, now I'll fast forward to August 15th where we are doing um Franklin Day at Somerset Patriots. Um, really to celebrate 241 01:06:26.960 --> 01:06:44.000 Franklin 250. Um, they are doing really their historical um, revolutionary night that they do every year. Um, I know Bob is very excited because they're going to have a cannon on the field. So, we'll be shooting cannon. Um, there will be a cannon for an arm because somebody's going to be throwing out a first pitch. 242 01:06:44.000 --> 01:06:59.520 I don't know who that is yet, but somebody from our from our Franklin 250 committee. Um, and we are selling tickets as well at a reduced rate. So, we'll have more information that you can share, not only if you're interested in purchasing, um, but also where you can purchase it. It'll likely be at several 243 01:06:59.520 --> 01:07:15.920 places, most likely the recck department, but tickets will be $10. Um, and that's for August 15th. That's a Saturday night. And again, fireworks included, so that's always that's always a uh reason to go. Anyways, and where we got the seats, um, Stephen and I were 244 01:07:15.920 --> 01:07:32.400 there. You got the best seats in the house to see the fireworks >> and it's their biggest event. And the uniform that they will be wearing is special for that night. >> Awesome. >> Yeah. So, lots of lots of things happening. >> Big. It's the letters go around this way 245 01:07:32.400 --> 01:07:48.720 and around the back. >> Thank you. That's a lot of work. Thank you. >> So, that's about it for >> They have very good fireworks there also. >> Be super. >> All right. Bob, you want to? 246 01:07:48.720 --> 01:08:04.960 >> Yeah. Go back to old business on um I understand the Meadows Foundation has a new president or person in charge. >> Yes. >> So, I want to request that these committees requested in the past to look at their books. We never could get them. And I understand maybe we that might be available now. >> J Bert. 247 01:08:04.960 --> 01:08:21.040 >> J Bird. >> Yeah. >> And the other thing is we was talking about uh the roof on the tenant house at Woff Garrison was supposed to been changed and more water damage inside that in a little bit cuz we never put a new roof on it yet. It's leaking like it 248 01:08:21.040 --> 01:08:38.480 it rains like it hasn't rained much lately but when it rains more water goes in and goes off. One thing I would like talking about, I I know that they're paying $30,000 for insurance, the Meadows. 249 01:08:38.480 --> 01:08:55.040 >> Okay. I think that's like really high. So that we we really should look and see if number one we can get them a better rate or they're underneath the township umbrella or I I think the Sedams used to fund them. But they're talking to Jay 250 01:08:55.040 --> 01:09:11.839 and um that's how much their insurance is for a year. $30,000 to ensure those properties. That's that's kind of crazy. >> And what do what does that cover? Does that cover a fire or whatever on some of the old buildings? 251 01:09:11.839 --> 01:09:27.359 >> Leaking roofs? >> I don't think leaking roofs. >> Probably not. >> That really ought to be under the township. The township owns the buildings. >> That's what I'm saying. They're telling me that they pay $30,000 for insurance. 252 01:09:27.359 --> 01:09:43.679 >> I wonder if that means they're >> have to do that. They could do some of the other things that they haven't been able to do. >> Exactly. That's why I want if you can look into it. Okay. >> I was going to talk to Bob about that. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Okay. >> Hi. I'm sorry to interrupt you. Come on 253 01:09:43.679 --> 01:09:59.679 in. Come in for a minute. I'm sorry to put you right on the spot as you walk in. >> Sorry to bother you guys. >> This is Prrenette. Is that I say your name right? >> That's Prrenov. >> Prrenov. This is Prrenav. So he came in. He's an Eagle Scout and he just uh finished. Did a great job. He redid all 254 01:09:59.679 --> 01:10:16.239 of the interpretive signage at Negri. He cleaned them. He replaced plexiglass. He stained them. He worked all weekend on it. and uh actually more and he came in to get his book signed so I said but anyway since he's here I figured I'd introduce him. >> Yeah. Sorry. Yeah. So over the last 255 01:10:16.239 --> 01:10:32.719 weekend I worked at Negri Napote and basically had a bunch of volunteers come over and help replace the signage and yeah it was a very fun project to do throughout. >> Yeah. Did a great job. Really good. Yeah. So um >> uh I'm just going to step out for one second to sign this and I'll be right 256 01:10:32.719 --> 01:10:49.520 back. But you guys continue. Okay. No problem. And >> I forgot to mention that we have a couple of Eagle Scout projects going on. We have his um he we're lucky that they keep reaching out to us asking if there's projects and so um so he did all 257 01:10:49.520 --> 01:11:06.159 the interpretive signs that a previous scout had done. And we also have uh another scout um well she did her scout her Eagle Scout project at the um the Vickle House, the boardwalk that goes to the canal. She replaced a bunch of the boards that need to be replaced. Um so 258 01:11:06.159 --> 01:11:23.520 Staca um did that but she's also doing the Girl Scout gold award now which is you know the same level um for Girl Scouts of awards and so she is has applied um to replace uh six or I'm not replaced sorry to repair and update six 259 01:11:23.520 --> 01:11:38.719 of our trail kiosks. So a lot of them have you know fallen into bad shape. They need to be scraped painted. they need replacement of different like a map holders, bulletin boards, and um so she's waiting for her final approval. Um 260 01:11:38.719 --> 01:11:55.040 but so she's done she's already done the one at the Van Wickle House and now she's looking to do the six uh kiosks and uh yeah and he just did the uh the interpretive signs. So we really appreciate them coming out and every year we get a nice group of people who 261 01:11:55.040 --> 01:12:11.120 will do projects for us. >> Very nice. Okay. >> As soon as I saw him walk in and I could tell he was probably like, "Oh gosh, I hope I don't have to go into that." >> It's like you're here. So, >> yeah. >> Um, all right. Um, number eight, 262 01:12:11.120 --> 01:13:03.600 consultants monthly activity report. We have a couple things to go over in executive sessions. >> Yes. And I sent it out with the email. Anybody have questions? >> You need to accept this the motion or no? 263 01:13:03.600 --> 01:13:19.120 >> I don't think you guys normally do. I don't think you normally do. >> All right. Uh, open to the public. Motion. >> So moved. >> Open to the public. >> Motion to close. 264 01:13:19.120 --> 01:13:39.880 All right, executive session. >> We didn't go over to financial report yet. >> I should have anybody have any questions? >> Very good. Then sorry motion move into executive session. >> Second. 265 01:13:39.920 --> 01:13:57.360 >> Hi, Bill. >> At this point, >> you have to say for what purpose? Yes, I know. I was going to say before you out. Yes. So, we're going to be talking about properties that are under contract or under negotiation for open space 266 01:13:57.360 --> 01:14:00.360 preservation.