AGENDA SESSION #2

More about flood insurance and the flood plains in Plainfield.

"August 28, 1971 – Tropical Storm Doria moves through the entire state, causing torrential rainfall amounting to a maximum of 8.09 inches (20.55 cm) in Trenton. The storm kills three people in New Jersey. " I believe that this was the storm that destroyed part of Somerset Street along Stony Brook in Watchung. In Plainfield a person drowned at the intersection of Berkman and South Ave. (It could have been Richmond Street) due to flooding from excessive water in the "covered portion of Cedarbrook."

This may have been once in a century storm but it could happen again. To ignore history is to invite disaster.

Among the "non agenda items was a presentation by a representative of PSEG regarding the solar panels. This is a State approved project and the there may be little the city can do to regulate their placement. Since they are being used to generate current for the system perhaps the city could get a "franchise fee" for each one. Although they produce energy for the net it is in the daytime and not when the the street lights are lit.

Council President Burney raised the question of an ordinance to regulate the distribution of fliers as well as newspapers. Counciler Williamson noted that the courts have upheld their distribution as "free speech" and said we can not stop their distribution but could regulate where they are placed . Council President Burney was concerned that the pile up on the lawn could be an invitation for a break in. I fail to see how a pile before the front door would be a lesser deterrent.

I get three newspapers each day. If they I delivered on the driveway I am happy. Of course I would like them on my front door, but such delivery only exists in utopia. I am also happy if the Suburban News arrives in my driveway and the Friday supermarket flier package. I miss these two if not delivered. However I can and do object if any are thrown on the lawn. That is littering. If there is to be any regulation delivery should be limited to the driveway or other specific area. I think that if we are to be away there should be a neighbor who will pick up the papers. I would hate to live in a place where no neighbor would help on such a minor matter.

While there have been many ordinances enacted in the past, few have been enforced. Before another non workable ordinance is placed on the books all Councilor Mapp raised the question while there was a that have not been repealed should be researched and codified as to subject. They could then be reviewed and conflicting ordinances repealed or all voided in favor of a new comprehensive ordinance. This should apply to all matters.

During a discussion on an ordinance amending the schedule of the salary and wages according to the contract with the firemen's "union(s) " which the Council recently approved. Councilor Mapp raised the question whether since there is a 20 day waiting period for appeals if the Council pass this Ordinance on the 14th would it become legal by Jan1,2010. Counsel Williamson would look into the matter before next weeks meeting. There was also a question if the contract had been signed by the Mayor. The City Clerk had no record and neither Dashield or Williamson had the slightest knowledge.

There was an expression of fear that if this ordinance was not passed there would be resentment by the firemen and no givebacks proposed. Irrespective of this retroactive adjustment, The Council should demand certain adjustments and/or salary adjustments or indicate that there will be positions lost.

A positive note was Dashield's announcement that a contract has been signed with "Sun Rise?" to take over the Dudley House operations.