te wnh to ship of spring 2020 page 1 montgo mery · the project was substantially complete by...

For many Americans, 2020 has been a difficult year: A global pandemic, economic concerns, and renewed demands for social justice. As the leaders of your municipal government, we have tried to address these issues effectively and with compassion.

We take enormous pride in the way the Montgomery community has responded to these challenges. Our health and police departments have consistently reported high levels of cooperation with social distancing, mask wearing, and contact tracing. In fact, Health Officer Stephanie Carey recently said our residents deserve an “A” for a 95% cooperation rate with contact tracing, well above thenorm of about 50%. This cooperation has produced results—a lower rate of COVID cases in Montgomery than in our neighboring towns.

Levels of donations and volunteerism have been encouraging, as reported by Recreation Director Karen Zimmerman, who also manages the food pantry and senior center.

Montgomery businesses have persevered under extreme difficulty, most reopening as soon as they were permitted to do so. They have followed our health rules and helped maintain a sense of community at a most important time. Through our Montgomery Together initiative we have highlighted local businesses and the Business Task Force hosted a number of events and even a Town Hall for the business community.

Montgomery’s youth have joined in solidarity to confront systemic racism in our society, organizing important outdoor and virtual gatherings. Despite deep disappointment with the loss of so many of the usual school traditions and experiences, they have done incredible work and give us reasons to be optimistic about our future.

Concerned residents and leaders of minority groups in our town have opened constructive dialog with our municipal administration, health, and police departments, helping us all learn from the

experiences and perspectives of each other. There is more work to do, but we have made a strong start.It is apparent the pandemic and its various impacts will continue into 2021. Here in Montgomery, our best strategy is to continue to lean on and support each other, as we have been doing all year long. Adherence to public health guidelines remains vital. In addition, we ask you to help by taking the following steps:

• Be counted. If you haven’t already, respond to the 2020 US Census now, to ensure our town and county receive our fair share of Federal resoures and political representation.

• Vote. We are heading into a historic election that will be conducted primarily by mail in New Jersey. Make sure you are registered, take time to follow instructions, and return your ballot as early as you can.

• Make connections. Isolation is a major risk for us all. Check on your neighbors. Don’t hesitate to ask for help yourself. Find out what’s going on in town through our new community website MontgomeryTogether.us.

Truly, we are all in this together. However long we may have called Montgomery home, no matter what our cultural traditions may be, we all share a love for this stretch of land between the Sourland Mountain and the Millstone River in Central New Jersey. We’re fortunate to be here together.

Stay safe and healthy!

Montgomery Township CommitteeSadaf Jaffer, Mayor, [email protected]

Marvin Schuldiner, Deputy Mayor, [email protected]

Catherine Gural, Committeeperson, [email protected]

Devra Keenan, Committeeperson, [email protected]

Kent Huang, Committeeperson, [email protected]

COUNTY OF SOMERSETMONTGOMERY

THE TOWNSHIP OF

Municipal Building, 2261 Van Horne Road (Route 206), Belle Mead, New Jersey 08502Tel (908) 359-8211, TDD (908) 359-8211 Website: www.twp.montgomery.nj.us

MESSAGE FROM THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE

~ Click below to go to Article or Link ~

Spotted Lantern Fly Control~ Pg. 9

Take Photos, Not Rocks!~ Pg. 13

Twp. Departments List~ Pg. 21

Veterans to be Honored~ Pg. 15

Voting Procedures~ Pg. 4 - 5

Wanted Used Toys~ Pg. 19

Becoming River Friendly~ Pg. 12

Free Family Movie Night~ Pg. 21

New Municipal Complex~ Pg. 6

Community Bulletin Board~ Pg. 20 - 21

Fall Flu Shot Clinics~ Pg. 2

Princeton Elks Events~ Pg. 20

Business Forum 9-23~ Pg. 8

Healthy Lawns/Streams~ Pg. 18

Rain-Barrel Workshop~ Pg. 12

COVID-19: Fall Update~ Pg. 3

Hollow Rd Quiet Zone~ Pg. 14

Raymond Farm Preserved~ Pg. 10-11

Document Shredding Days~ Pg. 18

Leaf & Yard Clean-Up~ Pg. 18

Recreation Newsletter

Fall Farmer’s Market~ Pg. 20

Meet the Mayor~ Pg. 8

Remembering 9-11~ Pg. 15

Fisher-Raymond Farm~ Pg. 10-11

New GovPilot Form System~ Pg. 7

Somerset Co Recycling~ Pg. 16-17

https://montgomerytogether.us/

mailto:sjaffer%40twp.montgomery.nj.us?subject=

mailto:mschuldiner%40twp.montgomery.nj.us?subject=

mailto:cgural%40twp.montgomery.nj.us?subject=

mailto:dkeenan%40twp.montgomery.nj.us?subject=

mailto:khuang%40twp.montgomery.nj.us?subject=

https://recreation.montgomery.nj.us/newsletter/

Fall 2020 MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY NEWSLETTER

Public Health officials are getting ready for a surge in respiratory illnesses this fall. Officials worry that an anticipated “second wave” of COVID infections will strike at the same time as seasonal influenza, resulting in a “twindemic” that could push the health care system to the breaking point. Montgomery Township Health Department is encouraging everyone to get their annual flu shots as soon as the flu vaccine is available locally.

“We are anticipating a surge in demand for flu shots this season,” says Montgomery Township Health Officer Stephanie Carey. “At the same time, we are re-designing the way we operate our flu clinics, to implement social distancing and prevent crowding.”

Enhanced safety measures include: • All vaccinations will be provided by appointment only.

Appointments can be made now by emailing [email protected] or by calling 908-359-8211 x227. Appointments cannot be made online for the Sept. 30 or Oct. 6 flu shot clinics.

• Consent forms and insurance information will be collected on-line. • Appointments will be spaced to allow for social distancing, and to allow nurses extra time

to disinfect between patients.• Clinics will be offered both as drive-through, and walk-up outdoor clinic models.

“We are having to re-work our whole model of how we deliver vaccines, quickly, safely, and to a large population,” said Carey. “In addition to protecting our community from the flu right now, this fall’s clinics give us the chance to better prepare for the day sometime in the future when a COVID vaccine becomes available”

Due to high demand, clinic schedules will be posted at the Health Department website https://health.montgomery.nj.us/ as flu vaccine shipments arrive. As of this writing, the following clinics are confirmed by appointment only:

• Wednesday, September 30, 10AM to 12 noon: Outdoor Walk-up at Otto Kaufman Senior Center, 356 Skillman Road Senior Citizens only—OFFERING HIGH DOSE VACCINE TO AGE 65+

• Tuesday, October 6, 3PM to 5PM, Outdoor Walk-up at Rocky Hill Borough Hall Gazebo, 15 Montgomery Road

• Additional drive through clinics will be announced for early October as flu vaccine shipments arrive

Safety Rules for Walk-Up Clinics• Masks are mandatory.• Appointments are mandatory• Paperless consent forms strongly encouraged.

Costs• Free to Medicare• Free to residents who have lost their jobs, lost their insurance, or lost income due to the pandemic• Free to first responders and their households (with ID)• $25 to all others (When you pay online, we will email receipts for you to

request reimbursement/cafeteria plan but cannot process these claims)

Serving Montgomery Township and the Boroughs of Hopewell, Pennington, & Rocky Hill

STOP THE “TWINDEMIC”: GET YOUR FLU SHOT NOW!

Registration for Health Department Flu Shots Open





























https://health.montgomery.nj.us



Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Montgomery Township has fared extremely well in keeping our rate of infection low. Generally, speaking, residents have remained vigilant by continuing to social distance, wearing masks, avoiding indoor gatherings, and frequently washing hands.

Another area of success is contact tracing. My department has experienced a 95% cooperation rate during contact tracing phone calls, which means that people who test positive, their family members, and friends usually agree to speak with us to identify others who are at risk of infection. This helps us minimize the risk of further virus transmission. In other communities, the cooperation rate is only around 50%. Montgomery residents have earned an “A” for contact tracing.

How Has Montgomery Fared?

As of mid-August, we had 135 cases and 7 deaths in Montgomery. As of this writing in September, it has been, thankfully, approximately three months since a Montgomery resident has died of COVID-19.

The more severe cases and deaths are sources of great sorrow to the affected families and friends. Yet when you compare Montgomery to other areas, we have fared much better than most, for a variety of reasons, including the excellent compliance of our residents with CDC and New Jersey state orders.

The chart shown here compares the number of cases relative to population. Montgomery has had 5.9 COVID cases for every 1,000 residents, which is dramatically lower than the rates statewide (21.4) or throughout Somerset County (16.2). Our rate of cases also is lower than every one of our major neighboring towns.

The rate of death per 1,000 population is .3, meaning we had about 1 death for every 3,000 people in town. That also compares well to the state and county averages, including our neighboring towns.

The fact that we have done well should be a source of pride, but it does not mean the pandemic is over for us. Many other parts of the country are struggling with outbreaks, and the mobility of our society means that infections can return. Please continue to keep up the good work, so we can keep Montgomery safe.

By Stephanie Carey, Montgomery Health Officer































2020 GENERAL ELECTION VOTING PROCEDURES

Somerset County Will Mail Ballots to Every Active Registered Voter, Provide Instructions Throughout Process on Casting a Ballot During COVID-19

The Somerset County Clerk’s office will provide guidance for residents who are interested in voting in the 2020 General Election to occur on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. This year is unprecedented in New Jersey since it is the first time a General Election will be held primarily by mail after Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order mandating this new voting process.

“The process for voting by mail will be similar to the 2020 primary election, but we understand that this is still unfamiliar for the majority of voters and want to ensure every voter who wishes to cast a ballot has their vote counted,” said Somerset County Clerk Steve Peter. “We have had to adjust our processes due to COVID and the need to protect the health of voters and poll workers, but we also have to protect the rights of people to speak through secure and safe voting via the US Postal Service.”

As the election proceeds, the county Clerk’s Office will continue to update the voting public on the election, by providing a video that will explain exactly how to fill out a ballot to ensure that it is counted, expand sections of the website with detailed information, and social media posts so that all segments of the population will be informed.Every Active Registered Voter Will Receive a Vote by Mail Ballot Active registered Somerset County voters will receive ballots by mail from the Clerk’s Office by beginning late September until Oct. 5. To check if you are an active registered voter, visit https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/registration-check or call the Somerset County Board of Elections at 908-231-7084.

Active Voters Do Not Need to Request A Ballot

Because all active voters will be mailed a ballot, there is no need to request a ballot. Newly registered voters will automatically be sent a ballot without needing to request one. There are exceptions to having to request a replacement ballot, such as if an active voter has lost, damaged or filled out the form incorrectly. Voters cannot request a second ballot if they have already submitted one. Applications are available on the Clerk’s website at http://bit.ly/scvbm.





























https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/registration-check

http://bit.ly/scvbm



Ballots Will Have Postage Prepaid, so There Is No Need for a Stamp

Ballots for the 2020 General Election will have a prepaid label so that voters can submit their ballot without paying postage. The ballots will be considered first class mail, so there is no benefit to the voter if they use a stamp.

Vote by Mail Ballots Can Be Submitted in Several Ways

• Ballots can be submitted by mailing them to the address on the preprinted envelope with a postmark before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3. It is highly recommended that mail-in voters submit their ballot earlier.

• Ballots can be submitted by inserting them in one of the ballot drop-off boxes located throughout Somerset County. There will be 13 ballot drop-off boxes in Somerset County. A drop-box will be located at the Montgomery Twp. Municipal Building, 2261 Rt. 206, Belle Mead, NJ 08502. It is highly recommended that voters return ballots as soon as they are able.

• Voters can go to a polling location from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. There will be at least one polling location in every Somerset County town. Voters can bring their paper ballot to a polling place, or if they do not have their paper ballot, they can cast a provisional ballot. Voters who are disabled and require an accommodation will be able to vote on a special device.

• Monday, Oct. 5, 2020 – Ballots for active voters will be mailed out by this date. Ballots can be submitted as soon as they are received, which may happen before this date.

• Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020 – This is the last day to register to vote and be able to cast a ballot in the 2020 General Election.

• Friday, Oct. 23, 2020 – This is the last day to request a replacement ballot through the mail. Ballots can still be requested in person at the Clerk’s Office (location TBD due to COVID restrictions) through 8 p.m. on Nov. 3, 2020.

• Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020 – This is the last day Qualified Overseas and Military Voters can request electronic balloting.

• Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 – Election Day.

Source: Somerset County Office of Public Information

For more info, go to the Som. Cty. Board of Elections website at http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/elections or call (908) 231-7084 or email [email protected].

Continued from page 4)

Important Dates During the Election





























https://twp.montgomery.nj.us/2020-general-election-ballot-boxes/

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/elections

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/elections

mailto:electionbd%40co.somerset.nj.us?subject=



The Montgomery Township Municipal Complex project is progressing – having been designed, put out to bid, and on August 26th the building’s construction contract was awarded. Working through the Somerset County Improvement Authority (SCIA), which owns the land, has enabled Montgomery to procur extremely favorable bonding rates. The awardee is Dobco Inc. of Wayne, NJ, which has constructed more than $1 billion in public buildings. (See details below.)

Construction should begin in late fall 2020 and is expected to take 18-24 months, targeting September 2022. Description of Complex (see renderings)

The complex will provide the community with a central meeting place in close proximity to the public schools and at a signalized intersection of Rt. 206 and Orchard Road. There will be safer and easier access to the public offices. The building was designed by DMR Architects, who have presented the designs at several public meetings. There will be two access roads from Orchard Road into the complex, one of which will be for the police station. The first floor will include a public library and public meeting rooms, which will face Orchard Road. The municipal administrative offices and additional meeting spaces will be located on the second floor. (View Artist Rendering of Municipal Complex.)

The library will have small meeting rooms for study, a children’s section, a lounge area for parents and casual readers, and lockers outside for after-hours pick-up of books via a code sent to mobile phone or device. The landscaping of the new complex will provide green spaces and out-of-doors meeting places and include a rain garden. Preserved open space will maintain the view from Rt. 206. The current municipal building is antiquated and cramped, with a Police Dept. sometimes housed in trailers. There is not sufficient room for the current employee count. It was last renovated in 1989. Municipal Center Bids

The township set a construction budget of $25,840,000. This does not include land costs and design fees. The low bidder for the project was Dobco at $25.4 M and the highest bidder was Delric Construction at 432.5 M. The complete list, which is posted on the purchasing page of the Twp. website, is as follows:

1. Dobco Inc. $25,475,0002. DMD Contracting $25,825,0003. Niram Construction $26,447,000 4. GPC Inc $26,650,0005. Brockwell & Carrington $26,760,0006. Vanas Construction $26,898,0007. Ernest Bock $26,985,0008. Hall Building Corp $27,377,0009. Alna $27,623,00010. Bancroft $28,673,00011. Paul Otto Building Co $28,988,00012. Michael Reisz $29,595,00013. Delric Construction $32,492,000

Municipal Complex BondingDuring these times, the rates have been historically low. Township officials were pleased to have received a rate of 1.75% which will equate to an annual payment of $1,911,500 a year for 30 years.

NEW MUNICIPAL COMPLEX BID FOR CONSTRUCTION

Front entrance view of the soon-to-be-under-construction Montgomery Municipal Complex on Orchard Road.





























https://twp.montgomery.nj.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Montgomery-Renderings_R1_12-23-2019.pdf

https://twp.montgomery.nj.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Montgomery-Renderings_R1_12-23-2019.pdf



Montgomery Township has partnered with Hoboken, NJ based software developer, GovPilot, to digitize several of our application/registration/request forms in an effort to make the resident experience more convenient and services more responsive.

These tracked forms are rolling out gradually and will be seamlessly available via the Township website at: www.twp.montgomery.nj.us

As of early September there are several forms available that use GovPilot, including the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) Request form, the Municipal Volunteer application, and several State Tax Relief application forms. Many more will be rolled out in the coming months and will be linked to our online payment processing software for user ease-of-use when a fee is due with an application.

As part of this partnership, we will also be utilizing GovPilot’s Report-a-Concern feature, called GovAlert. GovAlert will enable residents to quickly and easily report non-emergency concerns such as a pothole or fallen street sign directly through their mobile device which once submitted will route the appropriate resources to resolve the issue.

By utilizing GovPilot’s technology we will be able to offer an efficient experience which will store all records, applications, permits, and concerns on one unified platform.

In addition to OPRA, volunteering, and other forms above, over the course of the fall, GovPilot digital forms will be rolled out for the following:

• Alarm Registration • Construction / Code Permitting • Container Facility • Dog & Cat Licenses • Employment Application • Fire Permits • Flu Clinic • Health Dept. Permits • Marriage Licenses • Planning & Zoning Permits • Report a Concern • Site Use Application • Street Opening Permit • Vital Records Requests

These forms can be completed at an applicant’s convenience from any device. Upon submission, data is routed to the appropriate township employee for fast processing. Email alerts will keep residents informed of the submission status. These streamlined digital services will ensure residents will receive their registration, permit, or have their concern addressed promptly, at no additional cost to the applicant.

MONTGOMERY UPGRADING DIGITAL SERVICES WITH GOVPILOT PLATFORM





























http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us



Now that the State of New Jersey is easing into Stage Three of its reopening plan, local businesses may be considering how to ramp up and be looking for guidance and support. Montgomery is here to help. Montgomery Township will host a Business Forum on Wednesday, Sept. 23 from 7:00 to 8:00 pm as a Zoom Webinar. The purpose of this forum is to connect local business owners with township professionals and elected officials to get the latest information on business operation protocols, learn about any new rules on reopening, and open the discussion for businesses to get as many related questions answered right then and there.

Chris Edwards, the new CEO of the Somerset County Business Partnership, will join a virtual Montgomery Business Forum on September 23 to talk about how county businesses are responding to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Township staff related to Health, Planning, Finance, Code Enforcement, and Police will be available to answer questions on local reopening measures and current health and safety regulations/ recommendations. Chris Edwards, CEO of the Somerset County Business Partnership, will also be in attendance. Those wishing to participate should use the following link to join the webinar (there is no need to pre-register) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83407518532?pwd=TzJlWWc1djF3NDR1UUJVOG5ja3VwQT09 Passcode: 161181 or go to Zoom.us and use Webinar ID: 834 0751 8532 and Passcode: 161181. This info is also found on the Twp. website’s Sept. Meetings Calendar. For businesses unable to attend, the forum will be recorded and available for viewing on the Township website at https://montgomerynj.swagit.com/specialty - the meetings video webpage’s Specialty Tab.

COUNTY BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP CEO TO ADDRESS MONTGOMERY BUSINESSES ON COVID-19 SEPT. 23

The Montgomery Business Association invites interested business persons to meet the Mayor and Township staff, followed by networking.

Our Mayor Sadaf Jaffer, our Planning Director Lori Savron, and our Zoning Officer Joe Palmer will be giving us updated information of our town, and will be available to answer questions. Yes, it will be on ZOOM. For our networking, we have some tricks up our sleeve to enable you to network, chat and greet long unseen friends – moving around and engaging each other at your leisure and preference.

Members: Free, Non-Members: $10 Time: September 30, 2020 08:00 AM

Join Zoom Meeting:https://zoom.us/j/93326821914?pwd=eDE4UkxYWForUXU4cDN2UWZtU3BpZz09Meeting ID: 933 2682 1914 Passcode: 634896

One tap mobile+13017158592,,93326821914#,,,,,,0#,,634896# US (Germantown)+13126266799,,93326821914#,,,,,,0#,,634896# US (Chicago)Dial +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

Meeting ID: 933 2682 1914Passcode: 634896 Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/acSqg2bViGQuestions? Contact Jennifer Pierce – event chair – 917-459-3755 or [email protected]

MEET THE MAYOR MBA EVENT SEPT. 30





























https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83407518532?pwd=TzJlWWc1djF3NDR1UUJVOG5ja3VwQT09

https://montgomerynj.swagit.com/specialty

https://zoom.us/j/93326821914?pwd=eDE4UkxYWForUXU4cDN2UWZtU3BpZz09

https://zoom.us/u/acSqg2bViG

mailto:Jennifer%40frankveronsky.com?subject=



What can be done about the spotted lanternfly?

The spotted lanternfly, an invasive fly from Asia that kills trees and crops has been found in our vicinity in New Jersey.

If you see a spotted lanternfly, report it and, kill it! Circle trap can be bought/made to protect trees.

Recently, the NJ Department of Agriculture added Somerset County to the State-wide quarantine list for spotted lanternfly. The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect that feeds on the sap of trees, and eventually kills them. If you find any life stage of spotted lanternfly, you should try to destroy it. This insect is a threat to many trees and crops and we need help from everyone to try to prevent it from spreading.

While these insects do not target a single tree species (like the Emerald Ash Borer), the lanternfly is known to strongly prefer the “Tree of Heaven”

(Ailanthus altissima).

The potential level of destruction for our community’s trees and forests is devastating.We request that you consider removing any Ailanthus trees on your property because they serve to bolster the lanternfly population.

If you have any questions about identifying a lanternfly, or Ailanthus trees, please see accompanying photos or links below,

For photos and more information:

https://njaes.rutgers.edu/spotted-lanternfly/

Video on how to control invasive ailanthus trees:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKLW2TXS1jg

Why you should control ailanthus.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttBdl6OWFq4&feature=emb_rel_end

MESSAGE FROM THE SHADE TREE COMMITTEE





























https://news.psu.edu/story/629497/2020/08/25/impact/spotted-lanternfly-tree-traps-can-be-effective-need-careful

https://njaes.rutgers.edu/spotted-lanternfly/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKLW2TXS1jg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttBdl6OWFq4&feature=emb_rel_end



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP PRESERVES 20 ACRE FAMILY FARM On June 16, the Township closed on the preservation of approximately 18.6 acres of the Raymond family farm on Dutchtown-Harlingen Road. The farm has been in the Raymond family for generations, dating back to the late 1700s – see the more in-depth history below courtesy of the Raymond family and research by Candy Willis of the Van Harlingen Historical Society. The farm is contiguous to other preserved lands, and has been a long-time target of the Township’s open space preservation plan. The current owner, Henry Raymond III, approached the Township to discuss preservation options when he was planning to take over the farm. The Raymond family will continue to live on the property and carry on the legacy as a farm. The Township purchased a preservation easement on approximately 18.6 acres for $478,644.21, which limits future development of the property to

agricultural uses. The family reserved a 1.8 acre unrestricted area around the existing house which would allow for future expansion of the house, and non-agricultural uses (e.g. a pool, garage) that would be restricted by terms of the preservation on the larger farm. Township Committee member, and liaison to the Open Space Committee, Kent Huang said, “Congratulations to everyone involved in this preservation! A special thank you to Clem Fiori, Chair of the Open Space Committee, and Lauren Wasilauski, the Open Space Coordinator, for their leadership and their tireless efforts serving on the Open Space Committee. Discussions on preserving the Raymond family farm have been ongoing since the earliest days of the committee and this preservation is another step in preserving Montgomery Township’s rich farming heritage.”

Owner Henry Raymond concluded, “Our entire 7th and 8th generation family is very happy to have our 230+ years of history preserved in Montgomery.”































The following was provided by local historian Candy Willis and Henry F. Raymond, III:

The Fisher-Raymond family can trace their roots directly back more than 230 years to a farm nestled at the foot of the Sourland Mountain. Peter Fisher’s arrival in the Western Precinct (now known as Montgomery Township) is difficult to date - family legend has it that he may have been a Hessian soldier (see note below) who decided to remain in this country. Somerset County records show that Fisher was paying taxes as early as 1788 on the farm that his family has continued to inhabit to the present day. How did Fisher come to occupy the farm in the first place? Cornelius Ten Broeck, wealthy businessman and farmer, arrived in the Western Precinct around 1747 to settle his brother Wessel’s estate. He liked what he saw and decided to settle on the 400+ acre spread his father had purchased for him in 1734. Cornelius built/ moved into a c. 1762 brick Georgian house (still standing as is brother Wessel’s house) and began buying up available farmland in the precinct to lease to husbandmen. Peter Fisher was one of those husbandmen. Ten Broeck died in March 1790 and, within six months, his namesake executor son placed an advertisement in the Brunswick Gazette to sell both his father’s farm and two other farms nearby, including one in possession of Peter Fisher. The farm still had not sold by October 1793, so Cornelius Jr. placed another notice, this time in the Brunswick Advertiser, to sell the farm at public vendue (auction) to be held at brother-in-law Samuel Beekman’s house (also still standing.) Fisher was able to make suitable arrangements to purchase the land - he lived on the farm with his wife Christian (aka Christiana), raising six children, until his death in 1842. Son Henry, a bachelor, took over the farm. His mother lived there until her death 11 years later. By 1860, niece Lucretia Raymond, whose husband had died, showed up with seven-year-old son Herbert. Perhaps the rural life did not suit Lucretia as she married Charles Beardsley in 1869 and moved to Newark, leaving Herbert to continue living at the farm. When Henry died in 1884, he left the 117-acre farm to Herbert. Herbert passed the farm on to his son Henry Fisher Raymond Sr., the current owner’s grandfather.

Prior to Henry’s death in 1973, his son Henry Fisher Raymond Jr. bought the 10 acres surrounding the house and farm buildings. When Henry Sr. died in 1973, the remaining 107 acres of farmland were inherited by his five children. In the early 1990s, the five siblings sold the land for development. However, a 10-acre parcel was sold back to Henry Jr as it was not suitable for development. Today the 18th century house and farmstead remain as a 20-acre parcel. Peter, his wife, and many generations of the family are buried at the Unionville Cemetery.

HISTORY OF THE FISHER-RAYMOND FARM































The Montgomery Township Administration and Environmental Commission/Sustainable Montgomery took steps to encourage our residents to be ‘River Friendly’ this summer to keep our streams pristine, plus save water! Partnering with the Watershed, the Env. Commission discounted the usual cost of materials to $45 and Twp. Administration covered the Watershed’s staff fee.

A virtual Rainbarrel Building Workshop was held on July 25 and future workshops are being planned. The instructor is Erin Landis of the Watershed ([email protected]). Please feel free to express your interest to her.

The rainbarrel materials were picked up by residents in advance who then assembled them at home with easy-to- follow remote assistance from an instructor. Learn about rainwater harvesting and water quality in NJ, how installing a rain barrel helps protect water quality, and other ‘river-friendly’ actions you can implement at home!

Did you know that rainwater harvesting is useful for lawn and garden irrigation and other yard purposes? Participants learned about water quality in NJ, watershed protection, and ‘river-friendly’ actions to implement at home. In addition to building a rain barrel, attendees were given instructions for installation, care, and appropriate uses for their rain barrel. (https://www.epa.gov/soakuptherain/soak-rain-rain-barrels)

BUILD-YOUR-OWN-RAIN-BARREL WORKSHOP A VIRTUAL SUCCESS!

Montgomery’s Environmental Commission and Sustainable Montgomery encourages residents to explore The Watershed Institute’s River- Friendly Certification Program. River-Friendly promotes clean water and a healthy environment through voluntary action by individuals and institutions. To achieve these goals The Watershed will work one-on-one with residents, businesses, golf courses and schools to improve land stewardship practices. The program works to reduce pollution, conserve water, restore habitat for wildlife and educate the public about becoming better environmental stewards.

Becoming River-Friendly is easy, and two dozen Montgomery residents are already certified. Simply fill out the survey, which outlines actions you can take at home to protect clean water and the environment. Categories include water quality protection, lawn & garden maintenance, water conservation, and wildlife habitat. If you check off a certain number of actions, you will become part of the River- Friendly Resident network. If you fall short, a Watershed coordinator will work with you to implement additional practices to help you reach the target score. For more information, visit: www.njriverfriendly.org/

JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORS TO BECOMING RIVER FRIENDLY





























mailto:elandi%40thewatershed.org?subject=

https://www.epa.gov/soakuptherain/soak-rain-rain-barrels

http://www.njriverfriendly.org/



With the social and travel limitations we’re all enduring because of the coronavirus pandemic, our outdoor recreation opportunities have become a precious escape to a feeling of “normalcy”. Our preserves in the Sourland Mountains have become particularly popular, and we encourage you to visit Rock Mill Preserve on Grandview Road, and Zion Crossing at the northern end of Hollow Road, if you haven’t already. Both offer a peaceful retreat, a nice spot for a picnic, and some lovely fall color (coming soon).

However, we’ve noticed that people are taking rocks out of the streams on these properties and other private properties in the Sourlands. We’re glad that everyone is enjoying the beauty of these properties, but please don’t take it home with you! Rock

Brook flows from headwaters in the Sourlands, continuing southeast through Skillman Park, and eventually joining with Bedens Brook. Rock Brook is Montgomery’s highest quality stream, according to water testing completed by The Watershed Institute, and was recently reclassified as a Category One stream by NJ Department of Environmental Protection in recognition of its ecological importance. The rock-filled streambed of Rock Brook is not only the basis for the stream’s name, it also serve an important ecological function. The rocks help to slow stream flow (thereby reducing downstream flooding), minimize erosion, and increase oxygen levels in the stream (important for fish and other macroinvertebrates). By moving or removing rocks, the course of the water flow is altered, which can have severe impacts downstream. NJDEP recognizes the fragility of streambed environments, and prohibits any alteration of stream courses and stream beds without proper permitting.

If you see anyone removing rocks from the stream, please contact the Montgomery Township Police non-emergency number at (908) 359-3222.

TAKE PHOTOS, NOT ROCKS!

Nitrogen and phosphorus are nutrients required for plant growth. A limited amount of these nutrients is important for healthy plant life. An overabundance, however, not only can harm lawns but when washed into waterways stimulates excessive algae and weed growth. This in turn, depletes oxygen from the water and reduces the sunlight needed for healthy aquatic life. Did you know that by law all fertilizer products sold in New Jersey for turf must now contain at least 20 percent slow-release nitrogen and zero percent phosphorus unless a soil test demonstrates a need for phosphorus to be added? WHAT YOU CAN DO:

1. Apply fertilizer at the spreader setting shown on the bag, to avoid overuse or underuse of product. 2. Return any unused product to the original container for future use.

Do not apply fertilizer products if a heavy rain is predicted or before March 1 or after Nov. 15. 3. Use a drop spreader or a rotary spreader with a side guard to keep fertilizer on the lawn and off driveways,

roadways and walkways. Sweep up excess fertilizer from paved surfaces. 4. For a healthier, greener lawn, fertilize after the first lawn cutting in the spring and again in the fall when

weather conditions are best for grass to absorb nutrients. 5. Soil test can help identify what nutrients your lawn needs. Contact your County Extension Agent at

http://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/ for details. 6. For more information, visit www.nj.gov/dep/healthlawnshealthywater

Public Service Announcement from New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Montgomery Township. Go to: www.CleanWaterNJ.org

HEALTHY LAWNS – HEALTHY WATER





























http://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/

https://www.nj.gov/dep/healthylawnshealthywater

https://www.CleanWaterNJ.org



The Township is pleased to announce that the long awaited Hollow Road Quiet Zone went into effect on 12:00 am on August 4, 2020. The Quiet Zone waives the requirement for trains to blow their horns when approaching the Hollow Road railroad crossing. This does not prevent horn use when safety necessitates, such as during a power outage when the gates may not work. The Township now has Quiet Zones at the Hollow Road and Somerset County Route 601 crossings.

In order to implement the Quiet Zone, Montgomery Township worked with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), and railroad operator (CSX) to design and install advanced safety measures on Hollow Road. A “Notice of Intent to Create a Quiet Zone” was sent to NJDOT and FRA in March 2018. Since then, a Diagnostic Team convened to review the safety improvements needed at the railroad crossing. Following NJDOT Commissioner review, public notice, and other standard Quiet Zone proceedings, design started in 2019. Construction began in February earlier this year and was completed in the summer.

The safety measures implemented include flashing four-quadrant automatic gates to prevent drivers from going around the gates in an attempt to beat a train, constant warning protection, power out indicators, bells, warning signs to advise drivers that the train horns do not sound, and other safety upgrades.

HOLLOW ROAD QUIET ZONE NOW IN EFFECT































In remembrance of the lives lost and forever changes on Sept. 11, 2001, the Montgomery Township Committee observed a moment of silence at its Sept. 3rd Twp. Committee meeting (via Zoom), broadcast live and on demand on Channel 29 and at:https://twp.montgomery.nj.us/elected-officials/meeting-videos/

The Montgomery Township Fire Company #2 (Blawenburg) also held a small remembrance ceremony and moment of silence at their memorial on Friday evening, September 11th. We would also direct the public to a webpage evoking reflections set up by Montgomery Twp. resident and member of the Montgomery Veterans Memorial Committee, Michael Maloney at: https://veteran.express/9-11

While no public event was held by the Township this year at the 9-11 Memorial located near the upper parking lot of Montgomery Veterans Park on Harlingen Road, we encourage all citizens to take a moment of reflection there in the days ahead, or at the Memorial next to Firehouse #2 on Rt. 518 in Blawenburg. Next year will be the 20th anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center in NYC, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and United Airlines Flight #93 which was brought down over Shanksville, Pa. Never forget.

REMEMBERING 9-11

In honor of our Veterans, the Montgomery Township Veterans Memorial Committee will be hosting a Virtual Veterans Day Ceremony on Montgomery Township’s Facebook Page and YouTube channel with an embedded video link on the committee’s website. The virtual ceremony will premiere on November 11, 2020 at 4:00pm and will feature messages of gratitude from our community leaders and Veteran letters written and presented by select Montgomery Township Lower Middle School students.

VETERANS TO BE HONORED ON VETERANS DAY





























https://twp.montgomery.nj.us/elected-officials/meeting-videos/

https://twp.montgomery.nj.us/elected-officials/meeting-videos/

https://veteran.express/9-11



SOMERSET COUNTY RECYCLING NEWS

Upcoming First Saturday, E-Waste and Household Hazardous Waste Events First Saturday of the Month Drop-off Oct. 3 in Bridgewater

First Saturday of the Month Drop-off event will be occurring on the first Saturday of the month. Residents can drop off their recycling on Oct. 3, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the County Recycling Center, located at 40 Polhemus Lane in Bridgewater.

“This month residents can donate to Project First Class while also disposing of their excess recycling,” said Somerset County Freeholder Melonie Marano, recycling liaison. “New or gently-used school supplies, such as backpacks glue sticks, pens, pencils or crayons will gladly be accepted and then delivered to the Food Bank Network of Somerset County.”

Social distancing is required: Residents must wear facial coverings and gloves. Only one occupant per vehicle is permitted. Occupants should remain in their vehicles and staff will be available at every station to remove their items Proof of residency is required: Residents should have a current driver’s license, valid lease, tax bill or any other bill that shows proof of a Somerset County address. Pre-registration is not required. No businesses or commercial vehicles are allowed.

Drop off up to eight tires – with or without rims – scrap metal, used motor oil, oil filters, antifreeze and the usual curbside materials, including chipboard items, plastic bottles and containers marked #1 through #7. Chipboard items include gift, shoe, shirt and all retail boxes, as well as cereal, cookie, pasta, and cake and cracker boxes without the plastic liners. Accepted also are poster board, greeting cards, backing from writing pads and empty, dried-out steel paint cans. Somerset County does not accept textiles at First Saturday of the Month drop-offs. Residents should continue to recycle used textiles at any local charity donation bin.

Donate canned goods and non-perishable food at First Saturday to help residents who have been affected by COVID-19. Accepted also are donations to Project First Class. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/Project1stClass2020.

For a complete listing of recyclable items, recycling events and more, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle. To learn more about First Saturday events, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/1stSat or call the Somerset County Recycling Center at 732-469-3363.Electronic Waste Drop-off is Oct. 3rd in Hillsborough

HILLSBOROUGH – The Somerset County Electronic Waste Drop-off event will occur on Oct. 3 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South County Public Works Garage, located at 410 Roycefield Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844.





























http://bit.ly/Project1stClass2020.

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/1stSat



Social distancing is required: Residents must wear facial coverings and gloves. Occupants should remain in their vehicles with the windows shut until otherwise directed. Residents will also be expected to remove and place items without assistance, but as instructed by the staff. Proof of residency is required: Residents must have a current driver’s license, valid lease, tax bill or any other bill that shows proof of their Somerset County address. Pre-registration is not required. No businesses or commercial vehicles are allowed. Batteries are not accepted: Residents can recycle household hazardous waste including lithium and rechargeable batteries at scheduled Household Hazardous Waste drop-off events. Batteries such as AA, AAA, D, C and 9-volt can be disposed of in the regular trash. For more information about recycling electronics, contact the Somerset County Solid Waste Division at 908-231-7109, email [email protected] or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/e-waste.

A complete listing of recyclable items, recycling drop-off events (First Saturday of the Month, Household Hazardous Waste, Rx medicine, E-waste) and more are available at www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off is Oct. 17 in Hillsborough

BRANCHBURG – Residents can drop off their items at the Household Hazardous Waste drop-off event that is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the South County Public Works Garage, located at 410 Roycefield Road, Hillsborough 08844.

Social distancing is required: Residents must wear gloves and masks and stay in their vehicles with the windows rolled up. Hazardous materials should be stored in their trunks or truck beds.

Proof of residency is required: Residents should have a current driver’s license, valid lease, tax bill or any other bill that shows proof of their Somerset County address. Pre-registration is not required. No businesses or commercial vehicles are allowed.

Items accepted: Household hazardous waste includes banned or outdated pesticides, antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake fluids, wet-cell car batteries, motor oil (five-gallon maximum), fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent light bulbs, ammonia-based cleaners, gasoline, kerosene, mercury switches, oil-based paints, pool chemicals, propane tanks and rechargeable and button-cell batteries.

DO NOT drop off tires, or electronics (computers and televisions), infectious waste, gas cylinders, or smoke detectors. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers will NOT be accepted.

For more information about the types and quantities of materials accepted, contact the Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management at 908-231-7031, email [email protected] or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/HHW

A complete list of recyclable items, recycling drop-off events (First Saturday of the Month, Household Hazardous Waste, RX, E-waste and Tire) and more are available at www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle .

For more information about recycling electronics, contact the Somerset County Solid Waste Division at 908-231-7109, email [email protected] or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/e-waste.

Continued from page 16)





























http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/government/public-works/recycling/hazardous-waste-days

mailto:solidwaste%40co.somerset.nj.us?subject=

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/e-waste

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle


http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/HHW


http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/e-waste



Somerset County will hold a secure document shredding event on Saturday, September 19th from 9 AM to 1 PM (or until truck fills) at the Branchburg Municipal Building, 1077 US Highway 202 North, Branchburg, NJ. Somerset County will also hold a secure document shredding event on Saturday, October 3rd from 9 AM to 1 PM (or until truck fills) at Montgomery High School, 1016 Rt. 601, Skillman, NJ 08558. These events (usually ~8 per year) are open to any Somerset County resident with I.D. Proof of Somerset County residency is required. Residents can bring a combination of up to six bags, containers or boxes per trip. No businesses allowed. No commercial vehicles allowed.

For more information, call 908-203-6018, email [email protected] or go to www.co.somerset.nj.us/shredding For more dates, go to: https://www.co.somerset.nj.us/home/showdocument?id=37431

UPCOMING DOCUMENT SHREDDING DAYS

MONTGOMERY REMINDER ON LEAF & YARD CLEAN-UP Stormwater regulations do not permit leaves/branches/brush to be placed in the road or in storm drains. We must ensure the safety of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who travel Township roadways and sidewalks.

Montgomery residents are responsible for proper disposal of their leaves/branches. Montgomery Township does not provide a leaf disposal program. Here are some guidelines: • Please remember to keep leaves out of storm drains and out of the street. • Follow Montgomery’s yard waste disposal rules for tree branch drop-off.

Check the Container Facility and Bulletins pages of the twp. website at www.montgomery.nj.us or contact Public Works at 908-874-3144.

• Use a mulching mower that recycles grass clippings & leaves into the lawn. • Use leaves as a resource for compost. For tips on how to compost, go to the

Public Works section of Montgomery’s website. Somerset County also has large compost bins available for $50 each, a considerable discount to retail price. They also provide seminars twice/year on how to compost. Contact the County Office of Recycling at 908-231-7109.

If you see a violation of State stormwater regulations such as materials being dumped into stormwater drains, call the Montgomery Township Stormwater Hotline at (908) 281-6525. Much more information is available at

http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/departments/engineering/stormwater-management/





























mailto:PublicWorks%40co.somerset.nj.us?subject=

http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/shredding

https://www.co.somerset.nj.us/home/showdocument?id=37431

http://www.montgomery.nj.us

http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/departments/engineering/stormwater-management/



WantedYour Gently Used PLASTIC TOYS

Montgomery Township Department of Public Works and Second Chance Toys are teaming up to collect your gently used plastic toys for children in need.

Donate your outgrown toys • Help deserving children • Keep plastic toys out of our landfills

What:PLASTIC TOYS CLEAN

NO MISSING PARTS BATTERIES WORK

Where:Montgomery Township DPW 12 Harlingen RdBelle Mead, NJ 08502

When:

On going Monday through Friday, 8 am – 11 am & 1 pm – 3 pmContainer Facility Saturdays, 8 am – 12 noon































FARMER’S MARKET SATURDAYS THRU FALL

WHERE: Village Shopper III, 1378 Route 206, Skillman, near Mooyahs Burgers

WHEN: Saturdays, 9 am – 12:00 pm June 6 – October 31

Seasonal FavoritesOnions, potatoes, peaches, blueberries, summer squash, canteloupe, watermelon, exotic mushrooms, carrots, corn, garlic, eggplant, kale, herbs, herbal teas, fresh mozzarella, sausages, pies! Hand-crafted soaps and hand sanitizer. Lots more for a delicious dinner with family. Buy the best local, all New Jersey products.

New habits, same great productsKeep yourself and others safe: follow best practices when shopping. MFOS’s market team and our vendors have changed the way we do business to protect you and our important market community.

Pre-ordered, pre-paid ordering is available from some of our farmers. Order now, pick and go on market day!

• Clifford Family Farms. (@cliffordfamilyfarm17 on Facebook)• Von Thun Farms, pre-ordering only. (@Von Thun’s Country Farm Market on Facebook)

Market Safety Guidelines• Don’t help yourself. Let the vendor know what you want; it will be packed for you• Foot traffic proceeds one way around market tables as marked. No foot traffic between market tables.• Six feet between yourself and others at all times.• Please wear a mask covering mouth and nose while at the market. Customers are responsible for bringing their

own masks. Use hand sanitizer.

The above information and more may be found at : https://montgomeryfriends.org/farmers-market/ and at: https://montgomeryfriends.org/farmers-market/coivd-19-what-mfos-is-doing/

Now at the Market:

You = Success. The market is strong because of dynamic people like you. Use your smarts and energy to make the market successful. Contact us to find how ([email protected]).

FARMER’S MARKET SATURDAYS THRU FALL

Country Line DancingPrinceton Elks Lodge, 354 Route 518, Blawenburg, NJ9/09 – outside 6:30 PM9/22 – outside 6:30 PM Flea MarketPrinceton Elks Lodge, 354 Route 518, Blawenburg, NJEvery Saturday (shine only) September 5th – 26th , 8:00a.m.-1:00p.m. Thrift Store OpenPrinceton Elks Lodge, 354 Route 518, Blawenburg, NJFriday’s 1:00 PM – 4:00 PMSaturday’s 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

PRINCETON ELKS EVENTS IN SEPTEMBER

Community Bulletin Board





























https://montgomeryfriends.org/farmers-market/

https://montgomeryfriends.org/farmers-market/coivd-19-what-mfos-is-doing/

mailto:Volunteer%40MontgomeryFriends.org?subject=



Montgomery Township DepartmentsMain Phone Number 908-359-8211

AdministrationDonato Nieman, Administrator Construction / CodeRoy Mondi, Construction Official Engineering DepartmentGail Smith, Township EngineerStormwater Pollution 908-281-6525

Finance DepartmentMichael Pitts, CFO

Health DepartmentStephanie Carey, Health Officer

Mayor’s OfficeMayor Sadar Jaffer908-359-8211 ext. 263

Planning / ZoningLori Savron, Planning Director

Tax AssessorGlenn Stives, Tax Assessor

Tax CollectionMichael Pitts, CFO, Tax Collector

Township ClerkDonna Kukla, Clerk

Other Phone NumbersAnimal ControlAnimal Control Officer 908-359-8211 ext. 247

Court / Violations 908-369-3532

Police Non-EmergencyJames Gill, Director 908-359-3222

Public Works DepartmentArthur Villano, Superintendent 908-874-3144Pothole Hotline 908-874-8947

Recreation DepartmentKaren Zimmerman, Director 609-466-3023Sports Field Rec. Hotline 800-731-8412

Community Bulletin Board






























te wnh to ship of spring 2020 page 1 montgo mery · the project was substantially complete by...

Documents