Tree Ordinance Postponed at Montville Twp Committee Aug. 20 Meeting
By Melissa Benno,
2024-08-27
The Montville Township Committee Credits: Melissa Benno
MONTVILLE, NJ – The Montville Township Committee agreed to postpone voting on a tree ordinance that, according to Township Administrator June Hercek, followed a model DEP ordinance, but was met with pushback from the public.
Proposed ordinance 2024-22 would cost residents hundreds if they wished to cut down a tree on their property, after an application process to the township, or they would have to plant replacement trees on their property instead.
Hercek announced at the Aug. 20 Township Committee meeting that administration had received feedback from the public that they would like to incorporate into the ordinance, and that the ordinance would be re-introduced at a later date, probably in September. The comments focused on the amount of trees needed to replace the number of trees removed, she said, and administration would also be looking at the tree replacement ordinances from other towns. Hercek said that administration received feedback from the Environmental Commission as well.
Support of First Responders
Mayor Matt Kayne read aloud resolution 2024-328 in support of first responders. Three bills have been introduced in support of volunteer first responders:
A1754 allows certain volunteer firefighters, rescue and first aid squad members to claim $2,000 gross income tax exemption;
S82 proposes a constitutional amendment authorizing municipalities to provide partial property tax exemption of up to 15 percent of the assessed value for the primary residence of certain volunteer first responders; and
S2386 provides a gross income tax credit to active members of volunteer emergency service organizations for the use of personal motor vehicles in the performance of active duty
The Township Committee affirm[ed] its support in the state’s attempt to provide benefits and recognition to volunteer first responders, the resolution states.
On Aug. 16 township administration met with members of the Morris County Parks Commission about a grant proposal for the trail construction proposed for 1.32 miles of stone dust trail, “rest stations,” and foot bridges beginning at Abbott Road and ending just west of the former Santander Bank, according to Hercek. The county had some suggestions and the final grant application will be submitted on Sept. 4. The county will fund up to 80%, if the grant is approved, of the cost, which Hercek did not have.
The Historical Society will be conducting an archaeological dig at the Doremus House, after the proper paperwork is in order, according to Hercek.
Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
It’s essential to note our commitment to transparency:
Our Terms of Use acknowledge that our services may not always be error-free, and our Community Standards emphasize our discretion in enforcing policies. As a platform hosting over 100,000 pieces of content published daily, we cannot pre-vet content, but we strive to foster a dynamic environment for free expression and robust discourse through safety guardrails of human and AI moderation.
Local News
Comments / 0