Mayor Keffer: September Update

We are in full swing of campaign season. The one benefit to residents from this time of year is that politicians go door to door and hear firsthand what people want out of their local government. This is a reality check that influences the legislative agenda for the coming year. And so, over the next few weeks, I will post the concerns that I am hearing. If you agree or disagree, let me know as these concerns will change the way we do business.

Clearly, the residents on Alvin, Warner, Perry, Marion, Washington, Battle Hill, Joanne, Laurel, Smithfield, Cottler and Elmwood have spoken most concerning communications between town hall and residents and more so about communications between the mayor and residents.  I have learned from their comments. I have been inside many of their homes and have seen the damage first hand.  When FEMA information came out, instead of posting the information only on the town web page or in an email, town employees handed it out by going door to door. 

We learned that in a disaster, the only way to make sure people get the message is by direct communication.

We also heard that a number of factors influenced the degree of flooding. We’ve contacted Sen. Tom Kean, Jr. , Assemblyman, Jon Bramnick and Assemblywoman, Nancy Munoz for help. Mr. Kean has called and agreed to pursue our issues with the Department of Transportation and Department of Environmental Protection. 

We have also filed a complaint letter with the Board of Public Utilities to protest the apparent slow response of JCP&L to the disaster. Further, we have protested the lack of investment of JCP&L in infrastructure in Springfield. Residents on Hillside, Fieldstone and South Springfield complained that power outages are a common occurrence. Residents on Lyons learned their frequent power outages were the result of inadequate electrical equipment and only by filing a complaint with BPU does JCP&L act. So we have filed on behalf of all residents.

Residents on Laurel and Mapes reported that the storm sewers do not take run off in an ordinary rain, much less during a hurricane. They have asked for an inspection of the pipes under their street. The township engineer and assistant engineer are compiling a schedule for infrastructure improvements that should cover the next 20 years. Certainly Laurel and Mapes belong on this list.

I have heard comments from residents next to Rosner Field, Cohen Park and Henshaw Playground that basketball players have not followed “good neighbor” rules – leaving garbage behind, talking trash on the court and playing before 9 am and after dark. We are, therefore, developing and posting specific rules for our parks. This way, those using these public spaces understand our expectations and, importantly, the police have guidance if enforcement is required. 

Residents on Briar Hills Circle noted that the sidewalks are pushed up in spots by tree roots. The town has received a grant of $190,000 to repave the roadway. It would make sense if the sidewalks were repaired at the same time, and so I will ask that the sidewalks be added to the budget. We set aside $10,000 each year for sidewalk repair. With funds available, it should be a matter of scheduling.

I will continue to update this you as new information comes to light.

Hugh A. Keffer,

Mayor