Mahwah
MATTERS
Spring 2009 Newsletter
What’s
Inside...
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Township Directory
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Roadway Projects
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Recreation
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Revaluation Update
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Environmental Pledge
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Emergency Services
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Phase 5 Sanitary Sewer
Program Update
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Changing Faces in
Mahwah
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NJ2-1-1 Partnership
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Mahwah Museum
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Municipal Pool
CRAGMERE IS 100
ed industrial and business
“Cragmere in the Ramauses, and established an
pos” --an unusual real estate
association to maintain the
community in Mahwah -private roads, the water syshas its 100th anniversary
tem, recreation facilities and
this year. This community
transportation, by horse
marked the beginning of
drawn carriage or motorbus,
suburbanization of Mahto the Mahwah station.
wah, with many of its resiThe map creating the
dents using the train to get
community was filed on Septo work each day in New
tember 23, 1909 and the first
York. The plans for Craghouse, owned by Henry P.
mere were progressive in
Fletcher at 103 Oweno Road
the traditions of Llewellyn
was completed by NovemPark and Tuxedo Park,
Oweno from the collection of the Mahwah Museum Society
ber. The people of the complanned communities that
munity eventually estabhad been established elsecommute to jobs in New York. This
lished recreation facilities -- using
where in the late 1800’s. People
is the classic definition of a suburb.
Oweno Lake and building tennis
were encouraged to design and
Cragmere was actually subdicourts. Sleigh riding on the hills of
build their own homes, so there are
vided from one of the great estates
Miller Road, Mahwah Road and
still many diverse and charming
of the late 1800’s. The property
Airmount Road, was a great winter
homes of fieldstones and shingles.
was the estate of Ezra Miller – the
pastime. The residents had their
The residents of Cragmere became
inventor of the platform coupler for
own broom brigade to fight fires
influential community leaders and
railroad cars. In 1872 he built a
and sometimes had work parties to
founded many of the organizations
huge mansion, called “Oweno” on
maintain the dirt streets.
and traditions that we take for
the hill east of Franklin Turnpike
Prominent people in the busigranted today.
and overlooking the valley to the
ness, arts and legal communities
Originally, Mahwah was a farmwest. The estate had its own lake
came to live here. Howard Holing community, populated by
and many outbuildings and barns.
man, eventually the President of
Dutch and German settlers. In 1848
Colonel Miller did not live in the
Diamond Match Company, was not
the Paterson and Ramapo Railroad
house for very long before his
only active in the business commucame through the town and in 1871
death, but it was lavishly furnished
nity in New York but an active citthe Erie, successor to the Paterson
and had running water-- a luxury at
izen of Mahwah – a private in the
and Ramapo, established a station
the time – in every bedroom. After
home guard during World War I
stop here. This made it possible, in
his death, the house became a
and a member of the Board of Eduthe late 1800’s, for New York
boarding house and in 1899 it was
cation. Frederick Waterman was
industrialists to establish great
destroyed by a fire.
the Treasurer of U.S. Steel and
estates which served two purposes:
In 1908, the property was purbuilt a charming home at the corner
weekend retreats from New York
chased by George Dunlop who
of Alcott and Mahwah Road. He
City and large scale agriculture in
soon subdivided the property into
died young, but was a perennial
the form of dairy and horse breedmore than 600 lots, most of which
tennis champion on the Cragmere
ing farms. In the early 1900’s the
were 50 feet wide. The streets were
Courts located on Oweno Road
Ramapo Foundry Company (later
named after members of his family
near the lake. Joyce Kilmer built
American Brakeshoe) established a
–Beveridge, Alcott, Armour, and
his house at the corner of Airmount
large manufacturing facility and
Malcolm; after Maysenger -- one
and Armour and is said to have
entice many European immigrants
of the early German families of the
written his famous poem, “Trees,”
to work and live here. But CragTownship; and after Colonel
in the upstairs bedroom of that
mere was different. It eventually
Miller’s Estate -- Oweno. The
house. A.P. Smith, an inventor,
developed into a community chardeeds had restrictions in them that
built a house high up on Miller
acterized by people who lived here
controlled the type of buildings and
Road. James Biggs was a teacher in
full time and used the railroad to
fences that could be built, prohibit-
continued on page 6
TOWNSHIP OF MAHWAH
475 Corporate Drive, Mahwah, NJ 07430
Main Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757
Mayor/Administration Fax . . . .201-529-0061
Clerk/Council Fax . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5740
Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.mahwahtwp.org
Mahwah Cable Station . . . . . . .Channel 78
Verizon Channel 33
Environmental Commission . . . . . . .Jane DeWan, Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 271
Richard J. Martel . . . . . . . . . . . .(W) 201-529-5757 ext. 267 / (H) 201-891-8137
Housing Commission . . . . . . . . . . . .Dorothy McDonough, Secretary . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 206
Mayor
Township Council
John DaPuzzo, President . . . . . . . . .201-787-3244
Robert G. Hermansen, Vice Pres. . .201-847-1847
Samuel A. Alderisio . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 230
H. Lisa DiGiulio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-934-8313
Allan R. Kidd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-818-8888
Roy B. Larson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-891-0160
John F. Roth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-9358
Business Administrator . . . . . . . . . . .Brian Campion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 265
Administrative Assistant . . . . . . . . . .Denise M. Storms, RPPS . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 264
Administration Office . . . . . . . . . . . .Barbara A. Trent, Exec. Secretary . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 262
Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Charles V. Montesano . . . . . . . . . . . .201-762-2403
Board of Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Angela Musella, Health Officer . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 2
Chief Financial Officer/
Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kenneth Sesholtz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 256
Construction Official . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gary L. Montroy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 241
Emergency Services . . . . . . . . . . . . .Raymond R. Roe, Director . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-1000 ext. 275
Emergency Management . . . . . . . . .Raymond R. Roe, Director . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-1000 ext. 275
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Fire Prevention
(non-emergency) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Dillon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 240
Fire Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tim Malone, Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-828-2017
Historian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .John Bristow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-3136
Historic Preservation
Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise M. Storms, Secretary . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 264
Human Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dolores Raiz, Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 205
Access Transportation . . . . . . . . . . .Dolores Raiz, Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-2691
Affordable Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dolores Raiz, Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 205
Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gary L. Montroy, Const. Code Official . . .201-529-5757 ext. 241
Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kenneth W. Giaimo, Director . . . . . . . . . .201-529-READ
Municipal Court Admin. . . . . . . . . . . .Lorraine Cuomo, C.M.C.A. . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-2862
Municipal Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marion Crescitelli, Manager . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-4949
Planning Board/Zoning . . . . . . . . . . .Patricia A. Puorro, Admin. Officer . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 245
Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .James N. Batelli, Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-1000 ext. 200
Public Works Department . . . . . . . . .Stanley G. Spiech, Director . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-3344
Recreation Department . . . . . . . . . .Dawn DaPuzzo, Director . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 254
Recycling Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .John Soha, Foreman/Recycling Coord . .201-529-2991
Road Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keith P. Hallissey, Superintendent . . . . . .201-529-3344
Senior Center Coordinator . . . . . . . .Susanne Small . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 213
Tax Assessor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stuart Stolarz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 229
Tax Collector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Elizabeth M. Villano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 228
Township Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kathrine G. Coletta, RMC/CMC . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 230
Utility Collector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Maryann S. Malone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 221
Sewer Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Michael McClanahan, Foreman . . . . . . .201-529-4413
Water/Sewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Paul Scherer, Superintendent . . . . . . . . .201-529-4413
Zoning Board of Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-529-5757 ext. 243
NEW TRAFFIC
SPEED TRAILER
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTIONS
HELP KEEP MAHWAH CLEAN
The Police Department recently purchased a new
portable Radar Speed Trailer and Message Board. This
unit will be a valuable resource to our residents and will be
used throughout the Township to advise motorists of their
vehicle speeds. In addition the unit can also perform as a
variable message board to display traffic delays, construction work, AMBER alerts, or any type of information that
proves useful to the motoring public.
The speed trailer uses a digital speed display that alerts
motorists of their speed and helps individuals comply with
the posted speed limit as they observe their speed. The
trailer can be set up on local streets, school zones, or any
speed problem area. As a community service, residents
may request that the speed trailer be set up in their neighborhood by going directly to our Website- www.mahwahpd.org and make a service request. Requests will be honored based upon availability of the unit, severity of the
problem and visibility issues in the area.
This versatile trailer is a valuable asset to the Department in keeping the residents in the community aware of
their local speed limits and also enhances the capability to
inform the public of various events. ■
Mahwah Police Department’s latest Traffic Safety device
2009
ROADWAY PROJECTS
The Township will repave several roads in the Township during the Spring of 2009.
Corporate Drive will be repaved in two sections from
Macarthur Boulevard toward Route 17. This work has
been funded with two grants from NJDOT totaling
$350,000.00.
Macarthur Boulevard from Ridge Road west to Darlington Avenue, a portion of Ridge Road near the
Macarthur Boulevard intersection, a portion of Green
Street and Chestnut Street will be paved under the 2009
Road Improvement Project.
Various roads in the final section of the Phase 5 Sewer
Project in the Youngs Road/Deerfield Terrace area will
also be paved in the Spring of 2009. ■
“TAKE YOUR HAZARDOUS WASTE
TO A SAFER PLACE!”
CAR GOES HE
Bergen County Utilities Authority will hold its annual spring household
hazardous waste collections at the Bergen County Campgaw Mountain
Reservation, 200 Campgaw Road, starting at 9am on Saturday, May
16th rain or shine. For a complete listing of acceptable and unacceptable
materials, visit BCUA web site www.bcua.org.
MAHWAH FIRE PREVENTION
SUGGESTS A
SPRING CLEANUP CAN
HELP STOP FIRES
Here are some important items for spring cleanup to make certain that your
house is safe from fire.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Clean up the dead leaves lying on the ground in the yard.
Clean up gas and oil spills in the garage.
Clean up your work areas on the porch, in the garage, and in the house.
Discard all piles of rubbish.
Check appliance cords, fuses, and wiring for wear and tear.
Check for water leaks near your electrical appliances.
Keep combustibles away from heaters, furnaces and other heat sources.
Flue connections and chimneys should be checked for the accumulation of
creosote (a dangerous ingredient in chimney fires).
• Old oily rags and paint cans should be discarded.
• Gasoline and cleaning fluids should be labeled and
stored in a cool, safe place away from your home.
• Take all of those old papers and magazines out
from the attic, garage and basement to recycle
them.
• Check your smoke detector to make certain that it
works properly. ■
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All spring sports athletes are invited to kick
off their season by participating in the Spring
Sports Parade on Saturday, May 2nd at
9:30am. We ask that parents coordinate with
their children’s coaches to meet at Betsy Ross
School at 9am; parade begins at 9:30am.
(All players and coaches should wear the
team Shirt and Hat)
We request that parents who are not coaches line the parade route to view the parade
rather than march with the players. This way it
will make the children feel like it is a real
parade. Parade Route: Starts at Betsy Ross
School and proceeds down Malcolm Road to
Miller Road, left on Miller Road through Veterans Square to Commodore Perry Field.
Note: Once the players arrive at Commodore Perry Field, they will be greeted by the
Mayor, Council Members and other dignitaries. There will be various ceremonial procedures and recognitions. Refreshments will be
served consisting of hot dogs and juice.
20th Annual Fishing Contest
at Silver Creek Pond
Mahwah Recreation’s 20th Annual
Fishing
Contest
will be held on Saturday, May 23rd at
10am. This family
favorite is held at
Silver Creek Pond,
located at the intersection of Airmont
Avenue and Airmount Road, across
from Secor Farms.
The contest is open
to residents 13
years of age and
younger and is Catch and Release only! Prizes
will be awarded to contestants aged 13 and
under. It will be a reel good time for the entire
family.
Memorial Day Parade
The Annual Memorial Day Parade and Service, sponsored by VFW Post #7124 and the
Township
of
Mahwah, will be
held on Monday,
May 25th. The
parade will begin
promptly at 10am
at
Immaculate
Heart of Mary
Catholic Church
located on Island
Road, followed
by a Memorial
Day Ceremony
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RECREATION
DEPARTMENT
Ramapo Avenue. The Counselor in Training
program is open to children entering grades 8
& 9 in September 2009. The fee for this program is $15.00 per week.
Registration forms for the MINI, BIG REC
and CIT’S will be available at the Municipal
Building after May 1st. Application forms for
COUNSELORS will be available at the
Municipal Building and Mahwah High School
after May 1st. For more information, call 201529-1234, mailbox #4 or e-mail us at [email protected].
Paddle Days & Movie Nights
at Continental Soldiers Park
held at Veterans Memorial Park, located at the
corner of Franklin Turnpike and East Ramapo
Avenue.
Adult Residential Softball
OK parents…..it’s your turn!!! You’ve
spent the entire year driving your children
from one athletic venue to another, now it’s
time for you to have some fun! Mahwah
Recreation offers both a men’s and
women’s summer softball league. Games
are played in the evening at Continental
Soldiers Park and Commodore Perry
Field beginning June 22nd and ending
mid August. Women play on Tuesdays
and Thursdays and men play on Mondays
and Wednesdays. Players must be 21.
First time participants must attend one of
the in-person registrations held Wednesday, May 27th and Thursday, June 4th,
from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at the Recreation
Building, 70 East Ramapo Avenue. Proof
of Mahwah residence must be presented
along with the nominal fee of $20. The
action begins Monday, June 22nd. The
friendships last a lifetime.
Mahwah Summer Recreation
The Summer Recreation Program runs four
(4), one (1) week sessions beginning June 24th
and ending July 17th. (The first week is a partial week. Monday & Tuesday are set up days
for camp). All children must be residents of
Mahwah. MINI Rec is for children entering K,
1st and 2nd grades in September 2009. This
program is held at Joyce Kilmer School from
9am to 12 Noon. BIG Rec is for children entering grades 3 through 7 in September 2009.
This program is held at Mahwah High School
from 9am to 12 Noon. The weekly fee for both
programs is $30.00 per child, and only $15.00
per additional immediate family member.
Forms will be sent home with public school
children after May 1st. In-person registration
will be held on May 27th from 6:00pm to
7:30pm at the Recreation Building at 70 East
The Mahwah Recreation Committee and
Ramsey Outdoor Store will once again host
Paddle Days at Lake Henry on Tuesday
evenings in July from 5:30pm to 8:30pm,
weather permitting. Ramsey Outdoor Store
will provide canoes, kayaks, paddles and personal flotation devices (PFD’s) as well as
instruction on use. Participants must sign a
waiver and should bring sun protection! After
your time on the lake, join the Recreation
Committee for a family friendly movie and some
popcorn under the stars. Movies begin at 8pm.
Senior Picnic at Continental
Soldiers Park
The Recreation Committee will host their
7th Annual Senior’s Picnic at Continental Soldiers Park on Thursday, July 16th at 12 Noon.
This event is open to all senior Township residents at no charge. Join us for some great food
and perhaps a little line dancing!!!
15th Annual Mahwah Day
Mahwah Day will be held on Saturday,
September 26th at Commodore Perry Field. A
parade, dog show, magician, and live music
will be highlighted. Games, kiddie and pony
rides will be available throughout the day, as
will food and refreshments. If the weather
cooperates, a FIREWORKS SHOW at 8pm
will finish off the day. A planning meeting for
Mahwah Day will be held on May 11th at
7:00pm in the Mahwah Public Library. All
groups and organizations that plan on participating in Mahwah Day should be represented.
■
Maja Britton
Youth Sports Parade
ELECTION NEWS
Upcoming Elections
School Election
Primary Election
General Election
April 21, 2009
June 2, 2009
November 3, 2009
Deadlines to Register to Vote
VOTE
2:00pm to 9:00pm
6:00am to 8:00pm
6:00am to 8:00pm
Voter Registration Dates and Last Day for New Voters to Register to Vote in Upcoming
Elections
School Election
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Primary Election
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
General Election
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Note: Municipal Clerk’s Office will be open from 8:00am to 9:00pm for Voter Registration on the above dates. Deadline for new Voters to register to vote in an upcoming
Election is above.
Absentee Ballot Request Forms are available in the Municipal Clerk’s Office. Deadline
Requests must be received in the Bergen County Clerk’s Office in Hackensack 7 days
before the Election. Voters may apply in person at the Bergen County Clerk’s Office,
One Bergen County Plaza, Room 130, in Hackensack until 3:00pm the day before the
Election.
REVALUATIOIN UPDATE
In 2006 the Director of the New Jersey Division
of Taxation and the Bergen County Board of Taxation ordered the Township of Mahwah to complete a
Township wide revaluation of municipal real estate
tax assessments in 2007 to be effective for the tax
year 2008. The Township has entered into a contract
with Appraisal Systems, Inc., to conduct the Revaluation Program.
The Mayor, Township Council and the Tax Assessor are aware that significant changes and fluctuations in market value have occurred since 2008.
They have succeeded in obtaining three one-year
extensions of the revaluation to the tax year 2011.
The collection of preliminary field information
and assessments will continue during 2009 and
2010. Values will be established in October of 2010
for assessments in 2011. Individual notices will be
mailed to property owners prior to inspections in
each neighborhood.
HUMAN SERVICES/AFFORDABLE HOUSING/
ACCESS TRANSPORTATION
Affordable Housing
Mahwah’s Affordable Housing Program
continually accepts applications from residents and non-residents for Affordable Housing and Senior Housing in Mahwah. The
application covers rentals and/or purchases
with recertification required yearly to keep the
lists current. Senior Housing initially requires
a pre-application. Applications are available in
the reception area of the Municipal Building
and in the Affordable Housing Office on the
first floor between the hours of 8:00am to
4:00pm Monday through Friday, and can be
downloaded from the Township’s website. The application answers many
questions about the program and eligibility. Current Affordable Housing owners experiencing financial difficulty may
contact this office for information and
guidance. For questions relating to
Affordable Housing call Dorothy McDonough, Housing Administrator, at 201529-5757, ext. 206.
Access Transportation
Check out the beautiful new van
Mahwah received through a NJ Transit
Grant. The new van will enhance our
current aging fleet. Transportation service is provided for Mahwah’s seniors,
and anyone unable to drive, even on a
temporary basis. Riding the van becomes a
means of socialization and an avenue to see
and meet other Township residents. We routinely transport to: food and clothing shopping, rides to Mahwah and Midland Park
Senior Centers, senior day-care centers, doctor’s
appointments and other appointments that fit
into our daily schedule, including personal
grooming. The vans are on the road Monday
through Friday from 8:30am to 3:45pm. For
appointments and information, contact Access
Transportation at 201-529-2691.
Human Services
Please call Human Services for a referral to
the Center for Food Action or the Clothing
Closet at the Ramapo Reformed Church. If
you have food items to donate, call the Center
for Food Action at 201-529-2029; clothing in
good wearable condition can be donated to the
Clothing Closet (left side of Ramapo
Reformed Education Building) on Wednesdays between the hours of 9:30am to 12:00
Noon.
Emergency Management and the Mahwah
Police Department are compiling a list of
senior citizens living alone or
who have a special need. You
will be placed on a confidential
list for emergency purposes
only. Contact Emergency Management at 201-831-2075 or
Dolores Raiz at 201-529-5757,
ext. 205 for additional information.
When in doubt as to what
services may be available to
you through Private, Local,
County, State or Federal Agencies, call Human Services - we
may be able to assist or direct
you – 201-529-5757, ext. 205
or 206. ■
5
CRAGMERE, continued from page 1
New York City. Arthur McCausland was a
New York lawyer and a protégé of Judge Alton
Parker, who ran for President in 1904. Royal
S. Copeland, a Senator from New York from
1922 to 1938, and a fierce opponent of the
New Deal, had a house at the corner of Malcolm and Mahwah Roads. There were other
musicians, artists, authors, stock brokers and
other accomplished people among the Cragmere residents.
The people of Cragmere – both men and
women – were instrumental in developing
many Mahwah institutions. The first library
was opened by Eleanor Bugg with her own
collection in the old Miller barn and was later
taken over by the Women’s Club which Cragmere women helped to found. Troop 50 of the
Boy Scouts was, in turn, sponsored by the
Women’s Club in 1920, when scouting itself
was only 10 years old. The Duo-Arts
Club was an amateur theater group of
the 1920’s – and became a tradition carried on by the more modern Small
Town and Fancy Players of the 1960’s
and 1970’s founded by Cragmere residents Anne McCutcheon and Carol
Clinger. Betsy Ross School, on the site
of the old Oweno Lake, was built
because of the insistence of Cragmere
residents in the 1930’s that there be a
more local school for their children and
because Cragmere even threatened to
secede from the Township.
In modern times the public services
established by Cragmere—the water system,
the roads and the garbage collection – were
taken over by the Township of Mahwah. All of
the lots were not sold at once and the houses of
Cragmere were not mass produced as the postWorld War II Levittown communities were. As
Fletcher House
a result Cragmere today is an eclectic mix of
the old and new.
Fletcher House
On April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Betsy Ross
School, the Mahwah Museum Society will
present a program, complete with pictures,
about this pioneering suburban community.
Happy Birthday, Cragmere! ■
Springtime - Bicycle Safety Time
The Mahwah Police Department would like
to encourage parents to educate their children in
practicing sound safety habits when riding their
bicycles with the warm springtime weather just
around the corner. Bike riding can be a healthy
and fun filled activity but it also can be dangerous if children are not taught some safety precautions.
Each year, bicyclists are injured or killed
due to bicycle crashes. Many times these accidents could have been prevented if only some
simple safety measures were taught.
Some areas of safety are:
• Always wear a helmet and make sure it is
fastened. Head injuries are the most serious
of injuries occurring in bicycle accidents. All
bicycle riders 17 years of age and under must
wear a helmet. The use of a helmet is also a
requirement when skateboarding or roller
skating.
• Always wear bright or high visibility clothing so you are more noticeable. If children
are being allowed to ride at night make sure
they wear reflective clothing and have reflectors on their bicycles.
• Be aware of your surroundings and ride in
safe places such as parks and designated bike
routes.
• Look both ways before crossing an intersection and whenever possible cross at the
crosswalks in the roadway.
• Obey the rules of the road. Remind children
that they must stop at all stop signs and traffic lights. They also should be taught on the
use of hand signals.
• Have the bicycle regularly serviced and
checked for damage or worn tires.
• Keep bicycles locked up when not being
used. Keep a record of the bicycles serial
number and type in case it is stolen.
Nicholas and Samantha wearing safety helmets
• Try to ride with a friend as it is a safer practice.
The Department has some bicycle helmets
available for any resident that is experiencing a
hardship in purchasing safety helmets. Please
call 201-529-1000 and arrangements will be
made to distribute them while supplies last. ■
Mahwah Pledges To Reduce Plastic Consumption
The Mahwah Environmental Commission
raised awareness about the importance of
reducing plastic consumption by handing out
reusable bags at Mahwah Day. Thanks to donations of the bags from Inserra Shop Rite, Stop
and Shop and Pathmark, 500 residents received
the bags. The Commission had all residents
6
receiving the bags sign a commitment which
stated that they “pledged to reduce their plastic
consumption”.
Did you know?
• Plastic bags were introduced in 1977.
• Plastic bags are made of polyethylene, which
is a petroleum product.
• Americans use over 38 billion polyethylene
bags per year – most only once and then discarded. Only 5.2 percent of the plastic bags
are recycled.
• Plastic bags do not biodegrade, they photo
degrade, which means they slowly break
down into smaller and smaller bits that can
contaminate soil and waterways. This
process can take 1000+ years. As the polyethylene breaks down, toxic substances leach
into the soil and enter the food chain.
• Each year plastic bags floating in the world’s
oceans kill millions of birds and an estimat-
ed 100,000 sea turtles and marine mammals
who mistake them for food (jellyfish and
squid) and die when they ingest them.
• It takes 1.6 billion gallons of petroleum to
make the 380 billion bags that Americans use
each year.
You can help. Keep reusable bags in your car so
they are always with you when shopping. Reuse
the plastic bags you already have. They can be
used many times, not just once, and most food
stores give a credit off your total bill for doing
so. Recycle them at our local food stores. Bring
your own bags with you to all stores, not just
food stores.
Earth Day is April 22nd; why not take the
pledge to reduce your household’s consumption
of plastics? It is time in 2009 to pay attention to
what you and your family can do to help reduce
the negative environmental impacts of plastics
on land and in our oceans. ■
Several Mahwah CERT Team Members Recognized by Freeholders
Several Mahwah CERT team members were recognized by the
Bergen County Board of Freeholders with a Certificate of Appreciation for their participation in last year's Ramapo College graduation ceremonies. Last year was the third consecutive year the
Mahwah CERT team was charged with the responsibility of managing the traffic flow and assisting with the parking of several hundred automobiles. The certificates were presented to Daniel Clayton, Jerry DeNigris, Dennis Kievit, Len LaBarr, John McGorty,
Carter Morris, Trudy Stolte and Allan Becker by Mahwah Mayor
Martel at a Town Council meeting last September.
Our CERT team participated in the Mahwah Day Festivities last
September and played an important part in managing the festivities
of the day. They handled the information booth for the day and
controlled the influx of cars during the early morning hours when
the vendors were unloading their merchandise and supplies thereby allowing members of the Mahwah Day committee to fulfill their
other responsibilities. The team also assisted the Mahwah Police
Department to keep traffic flowing in a safe and manageable manner for the duration of the events.
In this day and age every volunteer organization that wants to
establish credibility and grow its membership needs an internet
presence. People who may have a simple interest in finding out
about CERT may not want the "commitment" of leaving their
phone number or email address just to get an overview. It is so
much easier to just "go to a website". The Mahwah CERT team has
launched a website at www.mahwahcert.org. “Those unfamiliar
with CERT can go to our website to learn more about the CERT,
our Mahwah CERT team and connect to links that will provide
them with additional information about this Federally sponsored
program” said Bill Deegan, a CERT team member and designer
and webmaster of the website.
The Mahwah CERT team continues to train and broaden their
expertise regarding emergency operations. A large number of team
members completed a “Partnering Agency Operations” workshop
last October which gave them additional skills to run a shelter
should the need arise due to a natural or man made disaster.
Paul Allan, an EMT with Mahwah Ambulance Co.#1 and a
member of the CERT team, provided training to team members so
they are better prepared to handle emergencies. The focus of this
training was First on Scene, Triage and Bandaging. This training
was well received by all who attended.
Residents of Mahwah are invited to participate in a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training course that runs for
8 consecutive Wednesday evenings. The next course will start
shortly at the Bergen Law & Public Safety Institute in Mahwah. At
the completion of the program, basic CERT safety equipment will
be issued to each successful participant. For an application, and
additional information, go to our website at www.mahwahcert.org
or contact Ray Roe, OEM Coordinator at 201-831-2075 or email:
[email protected] ■
Mahwah Fire Department
The Mahwah Fire Department and Baskin Robbins will be joining forces to
support the National Volunteer Council. A “31 Cent Scoop Night” will be held
on April 29th between the hours of 5:00pm – 9:00pm, Baskin Robbins,
Macarthur Boulevard. Come meet your local volunteers, see the equipment
and help support the National Junior Fire Fighter Program.
The Mahwah Fire Department is seeking new volunteers for their ranks.
Firefighters and Junior Firefighters are needed. If interested, stop by any fire
house on a Wednesday night at 7:30pm for more information. ■
7
PHASE 5 SANITARY SEWER PROGRAM UPDATE
The installation of sewer mains, sewer laterals, and a limited number
of water mains in the Phase 5 Sanitary Sewer Project areas throughout
the Township has been completed.
responsible for payment to the private contractor. The Township will
provide the required pump (at no additional cost) for the properties utilizing ejector pumps.
The property owners with laterals connected to a gravity sewer line
have been notified that they can proceed immediately with their individual hookups. The property owners with laterals connected to pressure
sewer lines require individual pumps as part of the hookup of their properties. These property owners have received notices that the individual
pumps are available and that the owners may proceed with hookups.
The property owners have one year from written notice that the sewer
lines are operational to hookup to the sanitary sewer line. Properties
which need individual pumps are not required to hook up within one
year.
The roads which were excavated and have not yet been paved will be
paved in the Spring of 2009.
The Township Council will appoint a Special Assessment Committee
to determine the monetary value of the benefit received by each property as a result of the installation of the sanitary sewer lines. The amount
of the assessment cannot be determined at this time. The property owners will have an opportunity to discuss their preliminary assessments and
they will receive formal notice of the public hearings held by the Special
Assessment Committee.
When the Township Council confirms the final special assessments
for the properties, the property owners may pay the assessment in one
lump sum or in installments over ten years with interest at the municipal
bond rate.
Each property owner will hire a private contractor at the time of
hookup to make the connection to the new sewer lateral and to decommission the existing septic tank and fields. The property owner is
Under section 17-7.7(d) of the Township Code (as recently amended
by Ordinance No. 1614), waivers of the one year hookup may be granted if:
1. The dwelling is more than 200 feet from the lateral, or
2. The existing septic system was installed after January 1, 1990 in
accordance with the applicable code, or
3. The dwelling is owned and occupied by a person at least 65 years of
age, or
4. Installation requires an ejector pump, blasting rock or encountering
other significant obstacles.
Once the property is converted, the property owner will receive quarterly sewer bills for the measured flow (based on a winter quarter use by
the municipal customer). The quarterly sewer bill for properties utilizing
private water wells will be based on a minimum flow. The limited number of properties in Phase 5 which have a new water line available in the
street have the option to hookup at this time or to remain on individual
wells. ■
Composting Bin Winner
Elaine Moutenot of Mahwah was the lucky winner of a
composting bin, raffled off by the Township Environmental Commission on Mahwah Day. The composting
bin came with all the necessary instructions and hints
on using household scraps, leaves and grass clippings
to make a rich fertile soil for your yard and garden.
The Environmental Commission also gave away
reusable shopping bags to residents of Mahwah. The
recipients of the reusable shopping bags signed a commitment pledging to reduce their consumption of plastic bags. The reusable bags were donated by Pathmark,
(Inserra) Shop Rite and Stop and Shop. ■
Pictured in Photo: Environmental Commission members Donald
Wenger, John Spiech, Karin La Greca and John Brotherton with
Elaine Moutenot (center) and her daughter, Jennifer.
Mayor Richard Martel is seeking volunteers for several Township Boards, Commissions
and Committees. The vacancies are as follows:
Community Cable Television Committee (1)
Environmental Commission (1)
Historic Preservation (2)
Housing Commission (1)
Zoning Board of Adjustment (1)
Join the Township team of volunteers
Interested residents should submit their resume to Mayor Martel at [email protected]
or mail to Township of Mahwah, 475 Corporate Drive, Mahwah, NJ 07430.
8
CHANGING FACES IN MAHWAH
She began her public health career as
Health Educator for the Montclair Health
Department and after obtaining her Health
Officer’s license became the Township’s
Assistant Health Officer. She left the Township of Montclair in 2005 after 21 years to
accept the position of Health Officer for the
Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission located in Waldwick. Angela is also a
Registered Environmental Health Specialist
and a Certified Health Education Specialist. If
you have any public health concerns, please
feel free to contact her 201-529-5757 option 2.
■
ZONING OFFICER
The Township of Mahwah also welcomes
Patricia Puorro as the new Administrative
Officer/Zoning Officer for the Department of
Planning and Zoning. Patricia has over 20
years experience as a Land Use Administrative
Officer in other New Jersey municipalities,
most recently the Borough of Madison. Patricia looks forward to working with the Planning and Zoning staff to assist the public with
Land Use concerns and can be reached at 201529-5757, ext. 245. ■
BOARD OF HEALTH
MEETING DATES REVISED
The Mahwah Board of Health has
revised their meeting dates for the year
2009. All meetings will be held on the
second Tuesday at 7:30PM in the
Municipal Building.
August (no meeting)
April 14th
September 8th
May 12th
October 13th
June 9th
November 10th
July 14th
December 8th
New Ambulance Squad Officers Sworn In
On January 1, 2009 the new Line Officers for Mahwah Ambulance Squad Company #1 and
Mahwah Volunteer Ambulance Corps #4 were sworn in. In a ceremony that was presided by Mahwah Mayor Richard J. Martel at the Municipal Offices, Captain Debra E. Nelson, 1st Lieutenant
Jodie Meyer and 2nd Lieutenant Robert English of Company #1 as well as Captain Linda Vitrone,
Assistant Captain Anthony Chuck, 1st Lieutenant Bob Reilly and 2nd Lieutenant Michael Ingui
of Company #4 Ambulance were all sworn in.
Company #1 Ambulance Squad is headquartered on Franklin Turnpike while Company #4
Ambulance Squad is located on Fardale Avenue. Darlington Avenue serves as the “dividing line”
for the two squad’s coverage zones. However, both squads rely on each other, as well as neighboring towns, for mutual aid. Company #1 responded to 1084 calls in year 2008, and Company
#4 responded to 496 calls in the same period.
Both squads are always looking for new members. If you are interested in learning more about
becoming a member of either squad, please call 201-529-9301 (Company #1) or 201-327-1643
(Company #4). ■
Standing (left to right) – Linda Vitrone, Bob Reilly, Michael Ingui
Seated (left to right) – Debra E. Nelson, Jodie Meyer, Robert J. English
Through an interlocal service agreement
between the Township of Mahwah and the
Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission, Angela Musella has been appointed as
the new Health Officer for the Township.
Angela has 25 years of experience in the field
of public health. She received a Bachelor’s of
Science degree in Community Health from
William Paterson College and received a Master of Art’s degree from Montclair State College in Health Education.
Gregory M. Antonetti
HEALTH OFFICER
MAHWAH POLICE NEWS
Mahwah Police Receive Second
Reaccreditation Through CALEA
The Mahwah Police Department received its second reaccreditation at the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA)
conference at Raleigh, North Carolina in March.
The agency was originally accredited in 2003 and
received its first reaccreditation in 2006. In December 2008 a team of on-site assessors spent four days
at the agency reviewing policies and procedures,
interviewing officers, and conducting an open
forum for residents to express their opinions on the agency. Mahwah
Police Administrators appeared before CALEA Commissioners to
answers questions and make a formal presentation before receiving their
decision.
The reaccreditation process takes place every three years. Recognition through CALEA is one of the most prestigious awards that can be
bestowed upon a law enforcement agency as evidenced by the select
number of law enforcement agencies nationwide that have achieved this
status. The CALEA Accreditation process is a proven modern management model. Once implemented it presents the Police Chief, on a continuing basis, with a blueprint that promotes the efficient use of resources
and improves service delivery – regardless of size, geographic location
or functional responsibilities of the agency. The Police Department is
proud of its achievement and the benefits it brings to the Township. ■
Mahwah Police & Mahwah Municipal Alliance –
A Success Formula for Youth
The Mahwah Municipal Alliance (MMA) is comprised of residents
and businesspeople from the Township who work in conjunction with
the Police Department to present innovative youth programs. The core
purpose of the Alliance is to help the youth of Mahwah become great
decision makers to the extent it can influence their life in a positive manner. To meet this purpose, the MMA was formed as an organization of
volunteers and local police focusing efforts in three major strategic
areas. These include programs and projects related to: Personal Courage,
Physical and Social Development and General Safety. The Mahwah
Municipal Alliance also actively supports targeted community outreach
efforts. We encourage residents to visit the MMA website at www.mmasite.org to find out more about our upcoming activities including:
• Annual Spring Car Raffle – Take a chance and win a Mercedes Benz
• Leadership Academy Registration Forms
• Junior Police Academy Registration Forms
It is our belief that when we deliver successful programs matched to
our core values, we will improve the quality of life in the Township of
Mahwah ■
Meet Your New Police Officer
Police Chief James Batelli is pleased to announce the hiring of Daniel
Patrick Stewart as a new Patrol Officer. Officer Stewart will become the
144th officer in the history of the Mahwah Police Department. Officer
Stewart graduated from the Passaic
County Police Academy where he was
enrolled in the Alternate Route Program.
Prior to joining the Police Academy, he
attended Marist College where he played
football and was Captain of the football
team. He is currently a resident of
Hawthorne. After completing a 12 week
Field Training Program, he will be
assigned to a permanent squad in the
Patrol Division. ■
Retirements
Mayor Richard Martel and Police Chief James Batelli recently
acknowledged the retirement of several Mahwah Police Officers who
dedicated a career of service in the law enforcement profession to the
Township of Mahwah. The Township wishes all the officers a long and
healthy retirement.
Captain William Koyak
Lieutenant Harvey Murphy
Detective Thomas Conly
Officer Robert Ossig – K-9 Canto and Lampik
Officer Nicholas Apollo – K-9 Benny
■
New Jersey Ban on Use of Cell Phones
While Driving
Research has found a direct correlation between the use of cell
phones while driving and motor vehicle accidents. Motorists cell phone
usage has increased exponentially. In the United States over 266 million
subscribe to wireless communication devices as of October 2008 compared with approximately 4.3 million in 1990. There are two dangers to
operating a motor vehicle while using a cell phone. First, a driver must
take their eyes off the road while dialing, sending a test or reading a text.
Second, and just as important, is that motorists become so absorbed in
their conversations that their ability to concentrate on the act of driving
is severely impaired. Their ability to respond to the environment around
them such as other vehicles, pedestrians or bicyclists is significantly
compromised.
While some call driving and talking on the cell phone multi-tasking,
it comes with a price – the safety of you and those around you.
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Law bans the use of a wireless hand-held
telephone or electronic communication device by the operator of a moving motor vehicle. It is a primary offense for a motorist to talk or text
message with a hand-held wireless telephone or electronic communication device while driving.
Use of a hand-held wireless telephone or electronic communication
device includes, but is not limited to:
• Talking or listening to another person.
• Text messaging or sending an electronic message.
• The fine for violating this statute is $100.00; no points will be
assessed for the offense. ■
Help is Only a Phone Call Away with 2-1-1
NJ 2-1-1 Partnership runs an information and referral system where
anyone can call 2-1-1 from any landline or cell phone to find state, local
health and human service resources to address urgent needs or everyday
concerns. It is free, confidential, TTY accessible, available 24/7 and
multilingual. It is supported by local United Way Chapters throughout
New Jersey and their partnerships.
This single statewide phone system has call specialists providing
comprehensive information on a variety of issues including basic human
needs, support for seniors and persons with disabilities, support for children
and families, employment supports, and physical and mental health
resources.
The easy to remember phone number is 2-1-1. You can also access
their website www.nj211.org for their searchable database, or communicate with a resource specialist through instant messaging technology.
It is comforting to know that when you need resource information, it
can be a simple 2-1-1 call away! ■
MAHWAH MUSEUM
The Mahwah Museum located at 201 Franklin Turnpike in Mahwah
is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 2 pm to 4 pm. A special exhibition
entitled Artists of Mahwah will open on April 4 and continue through
May 31, 2009. This exhibit features 23 works of art from Artists attending the Mahwah Senior Activity Center. Our other exhibits this spring
are:
The Donald Cooper Railroad, a model train display which includes
locomotives and rolling stock from more than eight different railroads
and the ever popular Thomas the Tank Engine with Annie and Clarabelle.
The Ladies Mile, an area in New York City located at Broadway
between West 15th and West 24th Streets. During the period between the
Civil War and World War One, this district became the birthplace of
some of New York’s most famous department stores including B. Altman, Lord & Taylor, Arnold Constable and Best & Co. Vintage costumes
from the Gilded Age are on display
Victorian Splendor, Life in the Ramapo River Valley, with displays on
the great estates of Mahwah showing clothing, jewelry and furniture of
the era.
Our history lectures are:
MAHWAH SENIOR ACTIVITY
CENTER
The Mission of the Mahwah Senior Activity Center is to meet the
social, recreational and educational needs of adult members in an environment that is fun, safe, inclusive and courteous for all participants and
guests.
The Mahwah Senior Activity Center is situated off Route 17 in the
lower level of the Municipal Building. To join, you must be a Mahwah
resident and 60 years of age or older. At present, there are more than
1500 members.
The Senior Center building is open Monday through Friday from
8:00am to 4:00pm and hosts more than 20 different programs, classes
and activities monthly.
April 16, 2009 7:30 PM – At the Betsy Ross School - Mahwah
100 Year Celebration of Cragmere
Presenter: Tom Dunn
May 21, 2009 7:30 PM – At the Ramapo Reformed Church – Mahwah
Business and Bustles
Presenters: Lindsey Greene Barrett and Carol Greene.
Mahwah resident Carol
Greene, curator of the
Ladies Mile Exhibit, adjusts
the sleeve of one of the
vintage costumes on display.
Mahwah Museum Trustee, Bob Adler, explains to visiting Cub Scouts the intricate workings of the Donald Cooper Railroad.
Class Information
Aerobics
Blood Pressure Clinic
Bridge, Advanced
Bridge, Beginners
Canasta
Chair Yoga
Dance
Dominos
Education Programs
Jazzercise
Knitting
Line Dancing
Mahjong
Meditation
Monthly Luncheon
Pilates
Pinochle
Tai Chi Chih
Trips
Woodcarving
Yoga
Zumba Gold
Check out the programs listed above. For additional information, call
201-529-5757, ext. 213 or ext. 277 or stop in for a program schedule.
Marion Brown
Upcoming Trip
Long Island’s Gold Coast Mansions
Friday, May 15, 2009
$61.00 per person
Departure: 9:00am
Tour Features:
Deluxe Motorcoach Transportation
Guided Tour of Sagamore Hill
Guided Tour of Eagle’s Nest
Three Course Luncheon at Mill Pond House
11
Township of Mahwah
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 58
475 Corporate Drive
Mahwah, NJ 07430
Mahwah, NJ 07430
ECRWSS
CARRIER ROUTE
MAHWAH NJ 07430
The 2009 rates for the Mahwah Municipal Pool have been set.
Reduced rates are available for Mahwah residents who join before
April 30th. The rate for a Mahwah large family is $275.00 early and
$360.00 late. The Mahwah small family per person rate is $110.00
early and $150.00 late. Mahwah individuals may join early for
$110.00 or $150.00 after April 30th. Seniors and disabled residents
will pay $40.00 for the season. Non resident families will be
charged $735.00 for the summer. The non resident small family per
person rate is $275.00, and the non resident individual rate is
$275.00. Mahwah Emergency Services families will be charged
$25.00 for the summer.
Mahwah residents, who are not pool members, are encouraged
to use the facility on weekdays for a gate fee of $9.00. Mahwah
seniors may also use the daily rates of $5.00 per visit per senior or
disabled resident. During the month of June, after school swimming
will be offered on hot sunny Wednesdays and Fridays (only) from
4:00p.m. to 8:00p.m., for a non member gate fee of $4.00.
Parties and events may be scheduled at the pool by contacting
the manager. The group party rate for 2009 will be $7.00 per person. Parties may use the grills, the food service or bring in food. No
glass is allowed.
Pool membership application forms will be mailed to all Mahwah residents and former non resident members by the first week
in April. Extra pool application forms can be found at the reception
area of the Municipal Building after April 1st.
The Mahwah Municipal Pool is located at 700 Darlington
Avenue. It offers a 25 meter main pool with a diving well, 3 feet to
10 feet, an intermediate pool 2 feet to 3 feet, and a wading pool for
babies and toddlers. Children who are not fully toilet trained are
limited to the use of the wading pool. All pools have 24 hour filtration and chlorination and are tested each hour during public use.
There are swings and a slide play area for children, volleyball, and
a patio with food service, picnic tables with grills, lockers and
showers. New for the 2009 season will be a lightning detector system
with warning siren and large shade structures for your comfort.
The pool offers group swim lessons, a swim and diving team,
and lifeguard training courses each summer. Registration for these
programs takes place on site after the pool opens. Opening day will
be Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. The pool closes on Labor
Day. ■
SharonKress
MUNICIPAL POOL