Message from the Mayor - March 2012

In February, the Township embarked on several significant initiatives to improve quality of life and our infrastructure.  We awarded two contracts to Pennoni Associates for design plans, specifications and for obtaining required permits for a Stream Cleaning Project between Alvin Playground and Marion Avenue and for a Dike Restoration Project. 

This is in keeping with our commitment to much needed flood mitigation work.  Our Engineers and I walked the waterways on several occasions to take note of the severity of the problem and formulate a plan of action for correcting the problems within our jurisdiction. 

We also remain active in regional efforts that seek to address the larger, multi-jurisdictional flooding factors. 

On February 28, the Township Committee voted unanimously and with bi-partisan support to finance an athletic field project for the benefit of Springfield.  At two separate public hearings in a packed Town Hall, the Township Committee and residents heard from our professional staff and experts about the positive economic, community and environmental impact from such a project.  Additionally, concerns about safety and health were more than adequately addressed giving the Township Committee plenty of reasons to support this initiative. 

Also worth noting is the implementation of a Police Department restructuring plan proposed by Chief John Cook and endorsed by the Public Safety sub-committee that will improve managerial oversight, staffing and reduce operating expenses.  In response to questions by concerned residents, I asked the Township Committee to direct our Township Attorney to prepare a brief report on the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan and its bearing on Springfield so that we can formulate a response.  Also, the Springfield Community Partnership 2012 Budget was adopted in the amount of $400,961.90 for the Springfield Downtown Business Improvement District.

Last month, Springfield residents and businesses received a telephone call from me announcing the launch of a new public notification system called Springfield Public Community-Stat.  A public notification system gives Township officials a chance to reach out to the public in case of an emergency.  Residents and business can change how they receive these notifications by adding or removing telephone numbers simply by visiting our Township website at www.springfield-nj.us  You can also utilize our new “Citizen Service Request” tool on the Township website.  This is a more advanced, interactive and location-based online portal where you can connect with Springfield government and request services.

We are reviving a policy that began in 2010 to make government more accessible. The Township Committee meeting for March 13 has been rescheduled for 2 p.m. so that residents who work in the evenings or have difficulty attending evening meetings can participate. 

An important discussion that will take place on March 13 is about the future of the Chisholm Community Center and Sarah Bailey Civic Center buildings.  We will hear a report of findings and recommendations from our Public Affairs sub-committee and Recreation Department.  All Department budgets have prepared and submitted.  We have tentatively scheduled the introduction and presentation of the 2012 Municipal Budget for the March 13 meeting with a final hearing on April 24. 

Additionally, the Chairman of the Finance sub-committee, Committeeman Marc Krauss, is scheduling another evening discussion on the Municipal Budget on Monday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall.

While Mayor in 2010, I proposed Ordinance 2010-12 establishing the "No Knock List" giving residents a way to indicate that they did not wish to be disturbed by peddlers.  As the weather gets nicer, you may want to consider registering by contacting the Township Clerk.  I would also like to congratulate Fire Captain Carlo Palumbo, Firefighters David Maas and Brian Schmitt for being selected to receive the remarkable New Jersey State F.M.B.A. EMS Medal of Distinction – a first for our Fire Department!

I am holding open office hours on Sunday, March 11 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, March 18 at 12:30 p.m.  Please e-mail me at mayor@shehady.us or call 973-797-9423 to schedule an appointment.  Additionally, contact me if you would like to host coffee/tea for neighbors and have me over to speak on any issue(s) of concern to the group.