Colleen L. Little

The special meeting covered several primary actions and discussions. The Council adopted Resolution 2015-76, awarding the bid for improvements to High Street to Tony's Concrete Co. Additionally, Resolution 2015-77 was adopted, awarding the bid for improvements to various streets to Mark Paving. A significant portion of the meeting focused on reviewing the condition and traffic situation on High Street and Evans Street due to heavy truck traffic. Discussions included the partial closure of High Street, the potential need for speed humps, designating a formal truck route by amending local ordinance 259-6, and confirming that Evans Street is weight restricted. The Mayor also noted the need to establish a detour plan for the future closure of Rte 631 for bridge work.

The meeting commenced with the Chairman reading the Statement of Compliance pursuant to the "Open Public Meetings Act." Key actions included the approval of two resolutions: one regarding the exploration of conformance with the State Highlands Act Plan, and another recommending the Historic Main Street Redevelopment Plan for the Zinc Mine and Main Street Rehabilitation areas. The board discussed the potential for organizing a meeting with local business owners, similar to an initiative in Branchville. Updates were provided regarding the Borough Council's decision to enter the plan conformity process with the Highlands Council, with assurances that the Planning Board would be kept informed. The board also held an executive session to discuss litigation concerning the Open Public Meetings Act.

The meeting agenda included procedural items such as calling the meeting to order, roll call, and flag salute, followed by standard sections for presentations, consent agenda review, and committee reports. The open public session allowed for public comment on the good and welfare of the Borough. New business items involved the approval of the March 27, 2012 meeting minutes, the appointment of a member to the Recreation Committee, and the adoption of several resolutions. Resolutions covered the renewal of liquor licenses (Resolution #2012-50), acceptance of donated surveying services for Evans Street drainage improvements (Resolution #2012-51), an amendment to the Employee Handbook (Resolution #2012-52), designation of Area "E" as in need of redevelopment (Resolution #2012-53), an amendment to the Capital Budget (Resolution #2012-54), and extending construction hours for a retail building (Resolution 2012-55). An ordinance to appropriate $42,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Evans Street drainage improvements was introduced, scheduled for final reading on July 10, 2012. Additionally, a motion was anticipated regarding a Developer's Agreement with Group 5 Development LLC.

The meeting commenced with the Chairman leading the flag salute and reading the Statement of Compliance, followed by administering the Oath of Allegiance to a new Class III Member. Key discussions included the review of Redevelopment and Rehabilitation Studies concerning the Zinc Mine, Main Street, and the Hospital Site properties, with the Board Planner noting that the Council requested a review of 2012 studies and that updates would be worked on for September and October meetings. The Board deemed complete the application (PB-07-16-1) for 24 Mabie Street LLC (Advanced Auto), though technical issues regarding dimensional requirements and completeness waivers were noted. The public hearing for this application was postponed to the September 19, 2016, meeting due to insufficient public notice regarding additional required variances. A resident from 26 Mabie Street requested an adjournment to retain counsel and professional services. The Board approved a Resolution Recommending to the Council Adoption of Ordinance 14-2016, amending land development and sign chapters of the Borough Code and Zoning Map. Payments of bills, specifically the Escrow Report for August 15, 2016, were approved.

The reorganization meeting commenced with the administration of the Oath of Allegiance to new Planning Board appointments. Key organizational actions included the election of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, with Mr. Christiano ultimately elected as Chairman and Mr. Friend as Vice-Chairman. Michelle Babcock was elected as Secretary. The board approved the appointment of David B. Brady, Esq. and Correale as board attorneys, Thomas G. Knutelsky, P.E. of Harold E. Pellow & Associates as Engineer, and Jessica Caldwell & Associates as Planner. The board also designated the meeting dates and official newspaper, adopted the professional resolution, and approved the Resolution and Annual Report of the Franklin Planning Board.