Audubon NJ, February, 2012.-- The Audubon Preschool is accepting students for the 2012-2013 school year. Parents may register 3 and 4 year old children for the 2012-2013 school year on Wednesday, February 1 and Thursday, February 2, 2012, 7PM to 9pm at the Audubon Senior Center, on Oak Street and Oakland Ave in Audubon. Registrants will need a copy of their child's birth certificate, a copy of parent's driver's license, a $25.00 non-refundable registration fee and a $50 deposit. Staff will be on hand to answer any questions registrants may have about the program. Residents of Audubon and Audubon Park take precedence, but non-residents are welcomed to register and will be taken on a first come, first served basis.
Audubon Preschool has been educating children for over 40 years and continues to provide a valuable and rewarding experience for children. We are a non-profit, state certified and licensed preschool program, offered as a social service to the community by the Audubon Women�s League. Audubon Preschool staff members strive to provide a socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually challenging experience through a program based on interactive play, creating and discovering.
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JANUARY 2012 COMMISSION MEETING
POLICE OFFICERS RECEIVE PROCLAMATIONS. CREDIT CARDS NO LONGER ACCEPTED FOR TAX PAYMENTS
Audubon, NJ 1/17/12
Audubon Patrolman Thomas Gorman and SGT Anthony Lapone were awarded proclamations and service medals for their part in the apprehension of a suspect in a hit and run incident in Philadelphia in which a Philadelphia police officer was injured. Gorman and Lapone captured the suspect in Audubon in December. Additional awards came from the local FOP and the Captain of the Philadelphia Police 6th District has made recommendations for awards, as well. Sgt Lapone was unable to attend the ceremony and will receive his award at a future Borough meeting.
Commissioner Gannon announced that the Borough has temporality suspended the use of credit cards to pay taxes and fees. He said the processing charges have substantially increased to the point where it is too costly to provide this service to residents, since the Borough must pay those fees that can’t be passed along to the credit card users. Gannon said that they are looking for alternatives.
Mayor Ward said the Borough plans to contract a collection agency to collect outstanding court fees and fines that have not been paid. He also said that they are looking into enhanced technology that would allow police officers to transmit traffic ticket data directly to the Court, eliminating much paperwork.
A resident asked about having the School Board elections moved from the spring to November to coincide with general elections. He said that he had been following legislation that would allow for that. The Commissioners said that moving the school board elections was solely a function of the School Board, but recognized that it could save residents money.
DECEMBER COMMISSION PUBLIC MEETING
Audubon, NJ 12/27/11
An ordinance was adopted approving the establishment of the 2011 Salary Ordinance and resolutions to adopt the 2012 meeting schedule as well as handling payments of tax sales.
During the public session an Atlantic Avenue resident complained about the parking of “PODS”, trailers and campers on the street, particularly a POD on Yale Road that he says has been there since summer. With regard to PODS, the Borough Administrator and Commissioners said they are similar to dumpsters in that they do not have wheels and they would look to see if the dumpster ordinance can be applied to PODS or needs to be modified.
The Atlantic Avenue resident and another resident had questions about the rehiring of the former Borough Clerk, Nancy Doman. The both seemed to want to know if the Commissioners knew about the apparent conflict between shared services and tenure as ruled by Judge Orlando at the time the agreement with Magnolia was done. Based on advice from the Borough Solicitor at the time, the Commissioners said that they did not feel they were violating any laws in terminating Ms Doman.
The same Atlantic Avenue resident (a former Audubon Police officer) asked if the retirement this year of two officers was going to impact the police department. Police Chief Tassi said that he did not know if the budget would allow them to be replaced, but said that he is adjusting his forces to maintain the same level of police patrols on the street and is looking at possible shared services, though not with the County. Chief Tassi said, that politics aside, he felt the Audubon Park police shared services worked and that he would do it again (meaning shared services, not necessarily with Audubon Park).
Another resident complained that there was a zoning violation next door to his home and that the neighbors are renting out their basement. He said that he had brought this to the attention of the Borough Administrator and that he felt the Borough was dragging its feet because it has been 7 months and it is still not resolved. He said the people renting next door are “undesirables”. The Borough Administrator said that this situation has been sent to the courts, but that the home owner is a former Borough employee and there needs to be a change of venue for the case to be heard in another town. He said the summonses are being issued and this is in progress.
DOMAN REINSTATED AS CLERK
REPORTS TO WORK TODAY
Audubon NJ 12/12/11
Former Audubon Borough clerk, Nancy Doman, whose position was terminated in July of 2010 as a result of the establishment of a shared services agreement with the Borough of Magnolia was rehired as a result of a legal ruling. She reported for work today and assumed her duties as Borough Clerk. See video report below.
NEWSPAPER SAYS MEETING BECAME HEATED
Audubon, NJ 12/1/11
In this week’s edition, The Retrospect is reporting -- “Back to work?: Tempers Flare over Former Audubon Clerk”.
You may have noticed that we did not file a news story on this website last week about the Commission meeting. We don’t feel that when the Publisher of this website interjects himself into the meeting proceedings that we can objectively cover the story. Therefore, we did not file one. However, we feel The Retrospect did a good job of memorializing the events of that evening and you may want to pick up a copy of the newspaper for an update.
According to her lawyer, Nancy Doman was to report back to work on December 1st as part of the court ruling. The night of the Commission meeting, we spoke to someone close to the case who verified that it was Ms Doman’s intention to report for work today. We don’t know if that happened and have e-mailed her lawyer with an inquiry. If and when we hear anything, we will report it.
THE WATERS BECOME MURKY
Trenton, NJ 11/28/11
Your legislators at work
In the case of a tenured municipal clerk, chief financial
19 officer, assessor, or tax collector, the dismissal of such a tenured
20 employee that is necessary to effectuate the sharing of a service
21 entered into pursuant to the provisions of P.L.2007, c.63
22 (C.40A:65-1 et seq.) shall be deemed to be a just cause, or good
23 cause, as appropriate, for the dismissal of that employee.
For the purposes of this section, the definition of good cause
41 for removal of a municipal clerk shall include the elimination of the
42 position of municipal clerk in the municipality as the result of the
43 municipality’s entering into a shared service agreement or a joint
44 contract for a joint meeting for municipal clerk services with
45 another municipality or municipalities pursuant to the provisions of
46 P.L.2007, c.63 (C.40A:65-1 et seq.). The removal of a municipal
47 clerk under this subsection shall not require the municipality to
48 fulfill the requirements of subsection b. of this section. Instead, the
municipality shall provide the clerk w 1 ith a written copy of the
2 shared service agreement or joint contract for a joint meeting
3 entered into by the municipality, and a letter stating that the
4 position of municipal clerk in the municipality is being eliminated
5 as the result of the shared service agreement or joint contract for a
6 joint meeting.
AUDUBON CHRISTMAS PARADE VIDEO
Audubon NJ 11/27/11
NANCY DOMAN TO BE REHIRED. BOROUGH VIOLATED A NJ STATUTE IN FIRING HER, SO SAYS HER LAWYER
Audubon NJ 11/5/11
We ran across a posting on the website of lawyer Michelle Douglass about a week ago basically stating that former Borough Clerk Nancy Doman had won a legal ruling in her favor regarding her dismissal several month ago. In part it read:
“…Nancy Doman v. Borough of Audubon, Docket Number: CAM-L-001263-11.
On October 6, 2011 the Honorable Francis Orlando, the Presiding Judge of the Court in Camden County Superior Court rendered a decision in favor of former Municipal Clerk, Nancy Doman…”
This ruling is a landmark decision that can affect every town in New Jersey since Judge Orlando ruled that certain classifications of tenured municipal employees cannot be terminated as a result of shared services agreements between municipalities.
It has been difficult getting information about the case from Borough Officials. We, as well as The Retrospect, reported that at the Commissioners meeting on October 18, 2001, a resident asked if Ms Doman had been rehired. The Commissioners said no and would not comment further. They said they would not comment on ongoing litigation.
At the beginning of the week after we discovered the posting on Ms Douglass’s website, I e-mail Mayor Ward and asked him for comments. Mayor Ward referred me to Commissioner Gannon who he said covered that area of responsibility.
I met with Commissioner Gannon prior to the Commissioners Caucus on Tuesday. I asked Commissioner Gannon about the posting and asked him if this was final and what the Borough’s intentions were going forward. Mr. Gannon told me that there was more to Judge Orlando’s ruling than was posted on the website and Orlando’s decision was not final. He would say no more pleading ongoing litigation.
I contacted Lawyer Michelle Douglass yesterday and asked her if Judge Orlando’s decision was final. She replied by e-mail and this is what she had to say.
“…The decision by Judge Orlando is his final decision. We, the Plaintiff, Ms. Doman, filed a Motion for Summary Judgment asking the Judge to rule in our favor as the law supported our position that the Municipal Clerk statutory tenure provisions trump the statute known as the Uniform Shared Services and Consolidated Act. The Judge agreed with us and stated that the Borough of Audubon could not legally remove Ms. Doman as the Clerk. They could enter into a Shared Services Agreement for Municipal Clerk services but that they could not fire Ms. Doman. In short, they would either have to allow Ms. Doman to continue as the Clerk, or enter into agreement with her, such as a severance agreement, wherein she would agree to depart voluntarily for a sum of money.
The Borough unlawfully terminated Ms. Doman thereby violation N.J.S.A.40A:9-133.7. Therefore they are required to re-hire her, pay her all of her back pay, pay her pension contributions to bring her current with the Pension System (PERS), reimburse her for her medical coverage that she was required to buy once she was fired and pay for her attorneys fees. Ms. Doman's return date to work is December 1, 2011….”
It is our intention to contact Commissioner Gannon again and ask him to comment on Ms. Douglass’s e-mail and ask him if, in fact, Nancy Doman is to be rehired and start working December 1st.
COMMISSION CAUCUS NOVEMBER
Audubon, NJ 11/1/11
The Commissioners met in Caucus tonight and passed resolution 2011:127 that added the Borough of Tavistock to the shared services agreement for courts with Haddonfield. Also passed was resolution 2011:128 that closed out the Beloit Avenue road resurfacing project.
During the public portion of the meeting, a resident of Haviland Avenue made a proposal to the Borough for a joint venture to combine a section of his private property with adjacent Borough owned land near “The Gully”. The combined property would be large enough for a building lot and could be sold at a profit for both the resident and the Borough. The resident felt the lot could be sold to a developer in the $40,000 to $50,000 range and the Borough could receive around $20,000 for the sale. In addition he said that a new home on the lot could generate in the neighborhood of $6,000 - $7,000 in property taxes annually. The Commissioners liked the idea and are exploring it further.
The Borough Administrator reported that taxes were due November 1st and that there is a 10 day grace period. He also said that the NJDOT and Conrail have agreed to fix the railroad crossing at Merchant Street and Atlantic Avenue. In addition to road work, new warning signals would be installed. He also said that leaf collection is beginning and that the schedule will be updated on the phone with a recorded message. The number to call is (856) 547-6190.
The office of Emergency Management reported that they have established a “Face book” page at Click to view
Commissioner Biking said that the Borough is in the process of hiring a mechanic and tree specialist to fill positions of employees retiring and they think they have found two suitable candidates. Mayor Ward reported that the Borough newsletter is in the final draft stages and should go out this month. He said the focus will be on volunteers.
OCTOBER COMMISSION MEETING
Audubon, NJ 10/18/11
Tonight’s Commission meeting was short. There were no ordinances and only a resolution to pay bills.
Commissioner Bicking reported that there is to be a meeting with the Department of Transportation and the Railroad regarding fixing the road at Merchant Street and Atlantic Avenue. He also said that there would be a meeting with PSE&G to discuss tree trimming as many residents are unhappy with the work, so far.
Commissioner Gannon said there would be a pumpkin cutting contest at the library. Mayor Ward added that Halloween "Trick or Treat" times are Monday, October 31st from 3:00pm until 7:00pm.
During the public session a resident asked if former Borough Clerk, Nancy Doman had been rehired – a rumor he “heard on the street”. The Mayor replied, no – but could not discuss it further because the matter was under litigation.
Another resident asked about the impact of Audubon Park pulling out of the EMS shared services agreement. Mayor Ward said that he was told by Haddon Heights EMS that Audubon Park represented about $30,000 a year in billing and that was significant. However, he did not know what that $30,000 represented as a portion of the squad’s total billing.
SEPTEMBER COMMISSION MEETING: PARKING RESTRICTIONS ALONG CONRAIL, BOROUGH IN GOOD FINANCIAL SHAPE. THERE’S A “MUSEUM” ON 2ND FLOOR OF THE OLD FIRE HOUSE, BUT YOU CAN’T GO UP THE STAIRS TO SEE IT.
Audubon, NJ 9/20/11
The Commissioners passed ordinance 2011:08 that prohibits parking along the Conrail right of way on Atlantic Avenue from Pine Street to Kings Highway. Cars are prohibited from parking overnight and commercial vehicles cannot park there anytime. Ordinance 2011:09 was passed to fund codification of Borough ordinances so that they can be searched online. The cost to do that is $15,000 which can be paid out over several years and is about $10,000 less than the original quote.
Commissioner Bicking reported that residents were complaining about tree trimming being done by PSE&G. Administrator Dave Taraschi said that there is nothing the Borough can do about it because the State Board of Public Utilities allows the electric company to trim trees up to ten feet from their power lines.
Commissioner Gannon remarked that a neighboring town was having financial problems and had their bond rating dropped. He said that the financial picture in Audubon is good and getting better. Under the current administration there has been no long term debt incurred and existing debt has been reduced by about $1.2 million. Our bond ratings are still AA.
Mayor Ward reported that in a cooperative venture with Haddon Heights and the County, “hash lines” have been painted on Kings Highway to keep cars from passing on the right in front of St. Rose school and that will increase safety for students crossing the road there.
Police Chief Tassi said that there will be a collection point for out of date and no longer needed prescription drugs as part of the “National Take Back Initiative". Medicines can be dropped off at the Municipal Building on October 29, 2011 between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Craig Burgess who is a member of the Audubon Historical Society asked if some of the Society’s documents and artifacts could be stored on the second floor of the old Defender Fire Company building. He got a “no” as an answer. Administrator Taraschi explained as a result of a court case in the 1990’s that the second floor of that fire house can only be used to house artifacts of the now defunct Defender Fire Company. He went on to say that the stairs to the second floor have been deemed unsafe and cannot be used by the general public.
AUTO VANDAL TO BE CHARGED IN AUDUBON TOMORROW
Audubon, NJ 9/6/11
According to Audubon Police Chief Thomas Tassi , Paul Cherfane, age 22, of the 400 Block of Holly Glen Drive Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is expected to be charged with 6 counts of criminal mischief and 1 count of conspiracy in connection with vandalism to automobiles in Audubon in August. He is expected to be charged for the crimes in Audubon tomorrow. The suspect was arrested in Cherry Hill on September 2, 2011 and faces similar charges there as well as Haddon Township and Oaklyn and charges may be pending in Collingswood.
According to Cherry Hill authorities, Cherfane drove through certain neighborhoods and smashed out auto glass with a baseball bat or other type battering object. Cherry Hill Police Detective Mark Buehler worked with detectives from other police departments that were experiencing the same type of activity.
As a result of the collaboration with other departments, the Cherry Hill Police obtained a search warrant for Cherfane’s auto & residence. Physical evidence obtained from Cherfane’s auto linked him to several of the crimes. Audubon’s Chief Tassi said that the physical evidence was green paint on Cherfane’s auto that came as a result of a collision with a trash can containing a can of paint. Tassi believed that information came to the Cherry Hill Police via a “tip line”, but he could not confirm that. Tassi also said that he understood that the suspect will make full restitution for the damage done.
SEPTEMBER 2011 CAUCUS MEETING
Audubon, NJ 9/6/11
Borough Administrator Dave Taraschi reported that tax bills are going out and due November 1, 2011. He said that sewer bills were also going out and due October 1, 2011. Commissioner Gannon remarked that some residents thought that the sewer bills had gone up, but they have not – the rates are the same. He said that the confusion may be that last year’s bills were only for a partial year and that this year’s are for the full year. Gannon also said that the Library tax will be broken out as a separate line item on the tax bill as that is now a State requirement; however this is not a new tax. In the past it had been a line item within the Borough general tax.
Police Chief Tassi asked about either a FEMA or County reimbursement for the support that the Audubon Police spent working at the County shelter at the High School during Hurricane Irene. He said that he had an officer stationed there for 12 hours. Mayor Ward said that the shelter was open, but that there was just one person who had take refuge there. Mayor Ward also said that the Borough is looking to subscribe to a reverse 911 outbound telephone alert system, but had to use the school system as it was the only one available during the hurricane.
The Public Works Department and the Borough Engineer reported that a grant has been awarded in the amount of $25,000 to pave the parking lot at Green Wave field.
AUDUBON VANDAL MAY HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED BY CHERRY HILL POLICE
Cherry Hill, NJ 9/5/11
A collaborative effort between Cherry Hill Detectives and several other towns has resulted in the arrest of Paul Cherfane (age 22) of the 400 block of Holly Glen Dr. Cherry Hill, NJ for a series of vandalisms to automobiles which occurred last month. Cherfane was charged with multiple counts of criminal mischief in Cherry Hill, Haddon Twp, and Oaklyn. Charges are pending in Collingwood and Audubon. Total damage is over $30,000.00.
AUDUBON HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Audubon NJ, 9/3/11 VIDEO REPORT
This video is a portion of the TV19Plus (Comcast Channel 19 and Verizon Channel 46) 2011 High School Football Preview program that is running now until September 17th at 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM. Additional high schools featured on that program include: Collingswood, Haddonfield, Haddon Heights, Haddon Township and Paul VI.
AUGUST COMMISSION MEETING: DEER CARCASS REMOVAL, TIMONEY SAYS COUNTY COPS WON’T SAVE TAXPAYERS MONEY AND KIDS ARE RUNNING AMOK ON MERCHANT STREET
Audubon, NJ 8/16/11
Ordinance 2011:08 was introduced tonight to enforce restriction parking on East Atlantic Ave from Merchant Street to Pine Street and to restrict parking from Chestnut to Kings Highway. The ordinance would prohibit truck parking any time and cars overnight.
Ordinance 2011:09 was introduced to appropriate funds in the amount of $15,000 to organize Borough ordinances and to make them searchable on line.
Among other resolutions, one was passed to join a cooperative for deer carcass removal. That is removing the dead bodies of deer (usually struck by autos) from the streets. The cost for a contractor to remove a deer carcass would be $60.00. While deer are not common in Audubon, last year one was killed in town.
Mayor Ward reported that he attended a County Police organization Committee meeting today and the consultant brought in, former Philadelphia and Miami Police Chief, John Timoney spoke. Mayor Ward said that Timoney’s role would be to facilitate the organization of the “Metro Division” that will replace the Camden City Police Department. During the public portion of the meeting, this reporter asked a number of questions, particularly regarding specific amounts that Audubon taxpayers would save by disbanding the Audubon Police Department and joining a County Force. We said that we ran some numbers and that it appears that the Borough spends about $300 per household for Police services. If there were 10% savings, the average taxpayer would save only $30.00 per year with a County force. The Mayor said that Timoney said there probably would be no savings and that the benefit of a County Force is that it would provide “better service”. We asked if anyone was complaining about the service provided now by the Audubon Police and the Mayor said no. The Mayor said that he was only on the committee to look out for the interest of the Borough and that being on the committee did not mean he was in favor of Audubon joining a County Police force. He also said that nobody was pressuring Audubon to join a County Police Force.
A number of business owners and residents complained about large gangs of kids hanging out on Merchant Street. It appears that they number about 20 to 30 and are there on a regular basis. According to people who spoke there has been vandalism done including spray painting of graffiti on a building and damaging planters. The Mayor said that the Borough is increasing its “community policing” meaning that Police Officers get out of their cars and talk to the kids. He said if that does not work, he will ask the Police to escalate the tactics they use. He did not specify what that escalation would be.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS AND STRONG WINDS HIT AUDUBON
Audubon, NJ July 7,2011
VIDEO REPORT
JULY COMISSION CAUCUS
Audubon, NJ 7/5/11
The Commissioners heard an insurance presentation from Christopher Powell of the Hardenbergh Insurance Group regarding the County Joint Insurance Fund and a plan to mitigate loss issues regarding safety, as well as employee training and procedures.
The Borough Administrator said that the Borough has been looking at disposal alternatives to the County incinerator in Camden, should the County privatize that facility. There are alternatives in Salem and Gloucester County, but the wear and tear on vehicles to go that far would be an issue. He also said that an RFQ would have to be issued for fuel oil this year, as the Borough exceeded to no bid amount last year. Relative to that Commissioner Gannon said that the budget audit was OK and the Commissioners passed resolution 2011:96 to accept the audit.
The administrator also suggested that the Land Use Board draw up some implementation standards for alternative energy devices like solar panels and wind turbines that would be located on private property. The Commissioners would then pass an ordinance supporting the recommendations.
Commissioner Gannon said that a new Borough Website should be in beta test by August and that the new site will have a number of features like a searchable database for ordinances and the ability to pay taxes on line. He also said that about one-third of homes have signed up for the e-mail alert system. Mayor Ward commented that the Borough is still looking at a mass notification system via telephone that would be run by a third party – this to be run in addition to the Borough operated e-mail alert system. The Mayor also said that even though it is summer, the Borough is still exploring a snow emergency ordinance to regulate parking and a committee would be organized to study that.
4th of July Parade Video
Audubon, NJ 7/4/11
View the entire parade video here (46 minutes)
JUNE 2011 COMMISSION MEETING
Audubon, NJ 6/21/11
This month’s public Commission meeting was a short one, lasting just 17 minutes. Thomas Barron. Esq. was appointed Special Labor Council, Bills were authorized to be paid and appointments were made to the Joint Land Use Board.
Mayor Ward reported about his work on the Camden County police study committee. He said that there have been six meeting and the group was in the data collection phase – no plan has been drawn up yet. Though he said the Freeholders have stated that they are committed to going forward even if only one town joins the County Force. The Mayor said that Audubon’s position on the creation of a County Police Force is neutral at this time. It is Mayor Wards goal to allow Audubon to continue to have a voice on the Committee. However, he said that legislation is pending in the form of NJ State bill S-2794 regarding shared services. This bill could force towns to join in a shared services arrangement or lose state aid – more info: CLICK HERE
The Commissioners also issued a proclamation commending the Audubon High School Baseball Team that won the Group 1 State baseball championship this season. Video Below.
OUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY
Audubon, NJ 5/30/11
This edition marks one year since we first launched this news website. Our first story last year was coverage of the Audubon Memorial Day ceremony. We have come full circle and the big news today is the Memorial Day ceremony. Last year we captured the ceremony as an animated slideshow, over the course of the year, we have graduated to covering some of the news in full motion video as well as traditional text.
Our objective in launching this Internet publication was as an experiment and we wanted to find out three things – first is there enough news in a town like Audubon to update our readers on a regular, if not daily basis – second, are residents interested enough to come to the news website and finally is a single town news website a viable business. The answer to the first question is yes, there is plenty going on in town, next we have averaged over 1,000 hits per month to our home page alone – that’s plenty of readers for a town of only 3,000 homes. However, the answer to the third question is no – it’s not a business. While we have some advertisers, the cumulative revenue is not enough to maintain this website as a business. We look at it as a hobby that sort of pays for itself. Nonetheless, if you keep reading, we’ll keep ferreting out the latest news.
MEMORIAL DAY 2011 Audubon NJ, 5/30/11 Video News Report
COMMUNITY EVENTS - MEET THE POLICE AND 4TH OF JULY FUNDRAISER
Audubon NJ 5/20/11
VIDEO REPORT
MAY COMMISSIONERS PUBLIC MEETING
Audubon, NJ 5/17/11
The Commissioners met tonight in what turned out to be a short meeting.
An ordinance was introduced to shorten the parking time limit on E. Kings Highway from Amherst to 1 hour from the current 2 hour limit. This was introduced at the request of the business association in that area.
The appointment of a Special Labor Counsel was tabled until June 7, 2011. This was as a result of the rejection of RFP submittals on May 3, 2011. We asked the Commissioners to explain the purpose of the Special Labor Counsel. They explained that it had to do with labor policies within the Police Department that require special legal knowledge. We asked if it had anything to do with a lawsuit, they said no. The Mayor said that the Special Counsel will be used on an “as needed basis” and compensated hourly. There will be no retainer.
The Borough received a Clean Communities Grant in the amount of $13,369.85. It will be used for litter abatement. Commissioner Bicking said the Borough is also going to apply for a grant to pave Green Wave Field’s parking lot. Police Chief Tassi said the Police Department had applied for a COPS hiring grant that would pay the salary of a new hire for three years including benefits. No matching funds would be required for this grant.
Mayor Ward said that the Borough is requesting quotes for a “reverse 911” telephone system that could be used to call residents in an emergency. He said that they are getting quotes from several companies and exploring the possibility of other towns becoming involved through a shared services agreement to get a better rate.
MAY CAUCUS
Audubon, NJ 5/4/11
The Audubon Commissioners held their caucus meeting Tuesday night. Borough Administrator Dave Taraschi reported that the one way signs for Logan Avenue have arrived. There was one set short – but it is expected this week. The signs should go up soon making Logan one way during school hours. This is a project to improve traffic flow around Haviland Ave School. He also said that the recycle tonnage has been doubled to over 13,000 tons from last year and that additional recycle cans are in and available.
Police Chief Tom Tassi said that the Police Department has applied for a Federal “COPS” grant that would provide for 100% of the salary for a newly hired Officer for three years. But, there are no assurances Audubon would get the grant. He also reminded residents that there will be a “Meet the Audubon Police” event at the Chick-Fil-A in the shopping center on May 19th from 5 PM – 8 PM. It is a chance for residents to meet their local Police Officers, view equipment and be involved in activities provided by Chick-Fil-A.
Fire Chief Anthony Lapone said that the fire department has applied for a grant for new air packs and that the Fire Police unit has been increased to nine members. He also reported that the Audubon Fire Department is working on a shared services agreement with Mt. Ephraim to provide duty staffing in the fire houses to reduce response time. Members of both fire departments would work on an alternating basis to provide coverage for both towns.
Commissioner Gannon said that he sent a letter to SID members explaining what is covered and what is not and a further explanation of the Borough’s future intentions.
Mayor Ward said that he met with a Haddon Heights and County representative regarding pedestrian crossing issues at Kings Highway and Amherst Avenue opposite St Rose School. They are exploring ways to make crossing Kings Highway safer for the school children. While on the topic of safety, the Mayor said that the Borough is looking at getting an “outbound” telephone alert system whereby automated calls could be made to residents in an emergency. Start up costs range between $3,000 and $5,000 with yearly costs in the $1,500 - $2,000 range.
The Mayor also serves on a committee to study the County-wide Police and Fire Department proposal set forward by the Freeholders. The Mayor said that the initial step may be the creation of a County-wide Detective Bureau that would contract its services to local towns. However, he said he would not endorse such a proposal unless it saves the towns money.
DRIVE THU DUCKS HATCH VIDEO REPORT Audubon, NJ 4/27/11
COMMISSION MEETING FOR APRIL – BUDGET APPROVED – CENSUS QUESTIONED - SID ISSUE COMES UP
Audubon, NJ 4/19/11
The Commissioners held the April public meeting tonight that included a public hearing for the 2011 budget; you can download a copy of the budget from this website:
This is the budget that will be submitted to the State for approval. If it requires additional amendments another public hearing will be held for residents’ questions and comments.
This budget includes a surplus of $620,000 up from a surplus of $100,000 in the 2010 budget. Commissioner Gannon said that the budget will result in about a $90.00 per year increase for the average homeowner. However, only about $30.00 of that increase will go toward Borough operating expense, the remaining $60.00 to be used to pay off municipal debt. The tax increase is under the 2% spending cap required by the State.
During the public comment portion of the meeting a resident questioned the Borough’s debt load of over $10 million. He said he felt that it was excessive for a municipality of Audubon’s size. The Commissioners agreed and said that the debt was incurred under a previous administration that borrowed money to surface playing fields with artificial turf and borrowed $2 million to construct a community center that was cancelled. They said that since they took office they have not borrowed anything for capital improvements. Commissioner Gannon said that it was a goal of his administration to pay down the debt.
Mayor Ward said that the Borough was made aware of the result of the 2010 Census which attributes 8,944 residents to Audubon. This would mean a decrease in population from the 2,000 census of 9,800 residents by almost 1,000 people that the Commissioners believed were living in Audubon 10 years ago. In research we did it appeared that there were 9,183 residents in 2000 and while the population drop was not as drastic it was still about a 4% loss. The Mayor also said that the census indicated that there were 227 vacant properties in town. He questions the accuracy of the census and may challenge it as Federal and State funding come based on population.
During the public portion of the meeting a Merchant Street business owner expressed his concerns about the use of the SID money that the Borough has taken over since the SID management corporation was dissolved earlier this year. He said that he understood the Borough was not going to use the remaining SID money to put plants in the urns on Merchant Street and that would become the responsibility of each business owner. The Commissioners said that they were holding the remaining money in reserve to repair or replace things like the bollards and street lamps should they be damaged. The business owner said that he felt maintenance of those sorts of things should be the responsibility of the Borough from the municipal budget. A disagreement ensued and the Commissioners said that they did not want to take over operation of the SID and that they are doing what they feel is appropriate with the money which is now their decision. They also pointed out that spending $2,000 per year to maintain plantings will not go far since there is only $13,000 remaining in the SID account. Even though the SID district still exists geographically, businesses are no longer paying the SID tax.
DRIVE-THRU DUCK GETS AUDUBON NATIONAL ATTENTION VIDEO REPORT Audubon, NJ 4/9/11
COMMISSIONERS CAUCUS FOR APRIL
Audubon, NJ 4/5/11
The Audubon Commissioners met in caucus this evening. Mayor John Ward was absent and Commissioner Bill Gannon chaired the meeting.
Ordinance 2011:04 that provided for enforcement of the local fire code was approved. The County is no longer providing fire inspection services for Audubon and this ordinance will set up a Borough organizational structure to do that work.
Resolution 2011:62 that strengthens immunity from tort claims was strengthened and requires notice to the Borough of law suits be filed with 90 days of actions that cause them.
Borough Administrator Dave Taraschi said the County has set a maximum rate for police traffic services on County roads construction projects at $54.10 which is lower than the rate charged to contractors for similar services provided directly by the Borough. Police Chief Tom Tassi said that he interpreted that to mean that the Borough could charge contractors more, but the County would only reimburse the contractor at the lower rate. The Borough has the right to refuse to provide traffic control at road construction sites and the contractors would have to get those services elsewhere.
Commissioner Bicking said that the Public Works Department is considering consolidating locations with the possibility of closing and selling the Nicholson Avenue garage.
TOWN-WIDE YARD SALE VIDEO REPORT Audubon NJ, 4/2/11
MARCH COMMISSIONERS MEETING
FIRE INSPECTIONS TO BE DONE IN-HOUSE
BUDGET INTRODUCED
Audubon NJ, 3/15/11
The Audubon Borough Commissioners met tonight and introduced ordinance 2011-4 that, in effect, would bring fire inspections in-house and performed by an employee of the Borough to act as Fire Marshall. Previously, Camden County provided fire safety inspections of apartments and commercial buildings for the Borough. However, the County laid off a substantial number of the staff of the Office of the County Fire Marshal and notified local municipalities they could no longer provide inspections on their behalf. The Borough had explored a shared services arrangement with other municipalities to provide an inspection service, but the arrangements were not feasible, according to the Commissioners. Therefore a fire inspector will be hired and the cost will be recouped from fees charged to building owners for the inspections. A public hearing on this matter will be held April 5, 2011.
A resolution was also passed to introduce the 2011 Budget. According to Commissioner Gannon the budget will come in $202,000 under the 2% CAP increase allowed by law, the tax rate will be 4.75 cents per hundred and there is expected to be a surplus. All of this subject to State approval.
Commissioner Gannon said that there are 2010 property tax relief forms available at the Municipal Building and he encourages everyone to apply. Additionally, he said the Borough will be conducting seminars on financial planning and reverse mortgages – the dates and times to be announced.
Commissioner Bicking said that the Borough refurbished a trash truck and purchased a used dump truck with recycling revenue that, by law, can only be used to support the recycling program. He said funding did not come from the general budget and therefore taxpayer dollars were not used for these expenses.
CAUCUS VIDEO AVAILABLE - S. LOGAN
Audubon, NJ 3/4/11
The video of the caucus meeting where the S. Logan one way street hearing was on the agenda is available.
MARCH COMMISSIONERS CAUCUS – ONE WAY STREET
Audubon, NJ 3/2/11
On Tuesday night, the Audubon Commissioners met in a caucus open to the general public for comments on making S. Logan Ave. one-way during school hours (7:30-3:30 Mon-Fri). There were a handful of residents who came to the meeting to make comments. The bulk of the comments concerned discourteous drivers that stopped in the middle of the street, parked in no parking zones and blocked driveways while their children walked to and from cars on their way to or home from school.
Superintendent Don Bordon spoke and said that the school will assign someone to stand between the school and Logan to assure the kids get safely from the cars to the school doors. This may help the situation because drivers won’t have to linger as long to watch their children. He also said that if there are problems with school staff parking, residents can take tag numbers and notify him personally. A police officer in the audience also said that residents can call the police if cars are illegally parking or blocking their driveways. The borough Engineer said that they did a traffic survey and the intensity of traffic during the two 15 minute periods involved would be an equivalent to having 15,000 trips down the street in a 24 hour period.
The resolution was unanimously passed by the Commissioner and the street will be one way during school hours and months that school is in session (not in the summer)
In other news, the Borough Administrator said that the Borough Hall voicemail system is outdated, parts are no longer available and it needs to be replaced at a cost of about $5,600. He also said that the sewer bills will be going out and that they expect to have a municipal budget proposal available by March 15th.
COMMISSION MEETING FOR FEBRUARY
LOGAN AVE TRAFFIC AN ISSUE – OOPS WE FORGOT ABOUT TAVISTOCK
Audubon NJ 2/15/11
The Audubon Commissioners held their public meeting tonight. An ordinance was introduced to have a public hearing on March 1, 2011 regarding making Logan Avenue one way on school days between 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM. It appears that there have been ongoing traffic problems since the realignment of schools making Haviland Ave School the one for younger kids. Most of those kids- including the ones from the west side of town get dropped off and picked up by car. This has been creating traffic issues most of the time and made worse when it snows because cars have trouble passing each other on that street. The public is invited to make comments at a hearing on March 1, 2010.
The two way shared services between Haddonfield and Audubon may now become a three way affair. Haddonfield had been providing court services for the 24 residents of the tiny Borough of Tavistock. That was not addressed in the shared services agreement between Audubon and Haddonfield and will now have to be addressed.
Police Chief Tassi, Commissioner Bicking and Mayor Ward all spoke about the recent County layoffs of Fire Marshals and investigators from the Prosecutor’s office. The County Prosecutors Office handles a lot of the coordination of criminal investigations between local towns, as well as providing intelligence to local towns and plays a key role in drug trafficking enforcement. Chief Tassi said that the local towns will have to play a greater role in working together to make up the slack. With regard to Fire Marshalls, Commission Bicking said that Barrington is trying to organize a shared services agreement among 8 to 10 towns to provide for that service. He said he will attend a meeting regarding the proposal next week. Mayor Ward is on a subcommittee of the Mayors Association to study the County wide police proposal.
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL -
AUDUBON DEFEATS HADDON TWP.
Haddon Twp., NJ 2/4/11
Audubon deateated Haddon Twp. by a score of 33 to 28 in a Boy's Basketball game played on Thursday night.
TV19 Plus sports reporter Marc Narducci interviewed Audubon HS standout TJ Tassi after the game. This game will begin airing on TV 19 Plus Saturday at 4 PM and 7 PM
Video courtesy of TV19Plus (Editors note: the publishers of this website are also the managers of TV19Plus)
FEBRUARY COMMISSIONERS CAUCUS -
COUNTY TO STOP FIRE INSPECTIONS BOROUGH MUST PICK UP THE SLACK Audubon, NJ 2/1/11
The Camden County Freeholders held a meeting of Mayors, Police and Fire Officials this morning to discuss the proposed County-wide shared Police and Fire Department proposal that has been in the news recently. Mayor Ward, Chief Tassi and other officials from Audubon attended. Never brought up at that meeting and in almost a complete reversal of philosophies Audubon Officials were notified later today that the County would cease doing commercial fire inspections for municipalities on April 1, 2011 and was laying off all but two County Fire Marshals.......
COURT MERGER TO BE FEATURED ON CH19 NEWS
Audubon, NJ 1/28/11
The merger of courts between Haddonfield and Audubon will be featured on the TV19PLUS (Channel 19 Comcast, Channel 33 Verizon) News. Court Administrator Jean Phillips, Police Chief Tom Tassi and Mayor Ward are all interviewed in the segment. Chief Tassi gives a tour of the security facilities including the Sally Port and Jail cells at the Municipal Building.
The TV19PLUS Local News runs in the “message board” section and is on about every 20 minutes, when the community messages are playing.
This segment is also “on-demand” on the web at the TV19 PLUS You Tube Channel.
GREEN WAVE GIRLS BASKETBALL TO BE TELECAST ON CHANNEL 19 TONIGHT
Audubon, NJ 1/14/11
The Audubon vs. Haddon Township girls basketball game that was played on Tuesday, January 11, 2011 will be telecast tonight at 7:00 PM on Comcast Channel 19. Verizon subscribers can view the game on Channel 33.
Additional replays of the game will be on Channels 19 and 33 Saturday, January 15th at 10 AM and 6 PM, on Sunday, January 16th at Noon and 6 PM, on Monday, January 17th at 10 AM and 9 PM, on Tuesday, January 18th at 9 PM, on Wednesday January 19th at 7 PM and on Thursday, January 20th at 8 PM.
AUDUBON RETURNS TO CHANNEL 19
ISSUES AN EMERGENCY ALERT
Audubon NJ 1/10/11
Audubon cancelled their message board service for Channel 19 last spring and no longer had the ability to put community announcements on Channel 19. The Borough had been paying $4,800 per year to a third party provider to operate a message delivery system that allowed the town official to connect with Channel 19 over the Internet. That service has been restored in another way and at no cost to taxpayers.
BASKETBALL GAMES TO BE RESCHEDULED TOMORROW
Haddon Twp., 1/10/11
According to Haddon Twp. High School Athletic Director, Alan Carr, due to the pending snow storm, the Haddon Township versus Audubon girls Varsity basketball game originally scheduled for January 11, 2001 at 6:00 PM at the Haddon Twp. gym has been moved to 3:45 PM at the Haddon Twp. Gym. The Junior Varsity game will follow the Varsity game at the same location. He also noted that the boys game to be played in Audubon tomorrow will also be rescheduled with the Varsity starting at 3:45 followed by the JV game.
WE’VE CHANGED OUR NAME (SLIGHTLY)
Audubon, NJ 1/10/11
You may or may not have noticed, but we dropped “Talks” from the name of our website and now it is just “Audubon News”. We have also added a new Internet address: www.audubonnews.com . However, you can still reach us at www.audubontalks.com.
We have made the change because we are going to start promoting our website more and we think that Audubon News (along with the new address) better reflects what we do – we report news, we don’t “talk”.
The Audubon Board of Commissioners held their first caucus of the new year and as is required approved a number of resolutions appointing employees and contractors to positions in the Borough. There are far too many to list here, so you can download a copy of those appointments as well as other resolutions passed tonight.
The Audubon Fire Department went through town about 4:00 PM today notifying residents of the snow emergency and parking restrictions. Despite an agreement between the Borough and County for the Borough to plow Audubon streets in return for "free" salt, the County plowed Hopkins Avenue late this afternoon. It is possible that the County still plows streets bordering on other towns where they have no such plowing agreements - In this case the border of Haddon Township.
County Plow Trains at work
COURT MERGER WITH HADONFIELD COMPLETED
Audubon, NJ 12/20/10
The Audubon Commissioner met in an early morning special meeting today in order to pass a resolution (resolution # 144-2010) “Authorizing Execution of Shared Services Agreement – Haddonfield- Court Services”. Haddonfield had previously enacted a similar resolution.
This is the final step in combining the Haddonfield and Audubon Courts, the combined court to be managed and operated by the Borough of Audubon and located at the Audubon Municipal Complex on Nicholson Road.
According to Audubon Mayor, John Ward the combined court will operate exclusively with personnel provided by Audubon. This was one of the options offered to Haddonfield. Ward said that there are no plans to increase the Borough’s current Court staff and next year the Borough will receive about $37,000 in payments from Haddonfield. Ward went on to say that Haddonfield will realize over $100,000 by “outsourcing” Court work to Audubon.
Borough Solicitor, Salvatore Siciliano said that Haddonfield had outdated facilities that would have had to be updated to meet State standards while Audubon’s currently meet the standards. He cited the availability of holding cells, video observation of prisoners, a separate courtroom entrance for the Judge and Judge’s chambers as capabilities currently in Audubon, as examples. While the agreement takes effect January 1, 2011, Siciliano does not expect the first trial to take place in Audubon until about January 15th.
Commissioners approve court merger with Haddonfield
EARLY BIRD PUBLIC MEETING ON SHORT NOTICE
Audubon, NJ 12/19/10
There is a notice of a special meeting Monday morning at 7AM to deal with the Audubon - Haddonfield Court merger on the Borough website. We could not find a Public Notice regarding the same in the Public Notice database.
"...12/20/2010 Audubon will hold a special public meeting for action on the Audubon & Haddonfield court shared service @ 7:00am at the Audubon Municipal Complex..."
Santa made his annual Saturday before Christmas visit to Audubon accompanied by The Audubon Fire Department. Santa's helpers handed out candy canes to local children.
FIRST SNOWFALL SNAGS TRAFFIC
Audubon, NJ 12/16/10
Audubon received its first snow of the winter of 2010-2011 today. Light snow started falling about 2:30 PM and let up at about 4:30 PM. The snow was light and only provided a coating, but due to the previous cold weather this week it stuck to the streets causing slippery conditions. Traffic was crawling on roads throughout the area and particularly affected was the area at the White Horse Pike near Kings Highway. Side streets were slippery as well and Audubon Public works crews were out salting intersections. This year, as a result of a shared services agreement with Camden County, Audubon Public Works crews will also take care of plowing and salting County roads within the Borough.
Crews salt East Merchant Street with “free” salt provided by the County in return for plowing County roads
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS TO BE TELECAST ON CHANNEL 19 GENOVA PIZZA WILL SPONSOR AUDUBON GAMES Audubon, NJ 12/13/10
High school sports telecasts will begin in January on Comcast Channel 19 and various Verizon FIOS channels in the area. There will be 10 events, a combination of wrestling and boys and girls basketball. The tentative schedule calls for Audubon to be featured in three games – one each- wrestling, boys and girls basketball. Video replays will be telecast multiple times at varying dates and times with some telecasts of each event in prime time. Each of the other high schools served by Channel 19 will have some of their games telecast as well and they include Haddonfield, Haddon Heights and Haddon Twp. The games are being produced by Sponsor It Media that began operating channel 19 for local municipalities in September.
Genova Pizza to sponsor games
The games are being telecast a no taxpayer expense through underwriting supplied by local businesses that sponsor the games. Audubon games are being sponsored, in part, by Genova Pizza, 132 Cuthbert Road. Genova Pizza has been in operation since 1967 and has deep roots in the community. Other sponsors signing up early include realtors Lenny, Vermaat and Leonard of Haddonfield and Westmont Ace Hardware of Haddon Township. Sponsors receive 30 second video announcements in each replay of the games. Costs to sponsors are about $350.00 per month. Additional sponsorships are still available and interested businesses should contact Sponsor It Media at (856) 323-8379 or e-mail them at ezmedialink@comcast.net.
(Editor’s note, Sponsor It Media is the publisher of this website)
VARIANCE A SLAM DUNK FOR SENIORS ORGANIZATION
Audubon, NJ 12/9/10
The Audubon Land Use Board met Wednesday night to overflow crowds that filled the first floor courtroom of the municipal building. The attraction was the result of a session to hear a variance request by Senior Citizens United Community Services of Camden County, known as SCUCS.
Proposed rehab of Riviera Ballroon as senior citizens service center
The Audubon Commissioners met in caucus tonight and the first item on the agenda was the public hearing of ordinance 979-2010 that amended the SID ordinance and places the Borough in Charge of the remaining SID funds.........
NOVEMBER PUBLIC COMMISSIONERS MEETING
Audubon, NJ 11/23/10
Tonight’s meeting was highlighted by the public hearing of the 2010 Salary Ordinance (#978-2010). While many employees will receive raises, Commissioner Gannon said that about 85% of them were dictated within union contracts.
An ordinance was adopted to authorize the execution of a contract with Police Chief Thomas Tassi. The contract is for three years. Previously, there was not a contact between the Borough and the Police Chief.
Commmissioner Bicking reported that he had discussions with Softball League officials who had some concerns that the artificial turf had only a remaining life of four more years and they offered to become involved in fund raising to have the fields resurfaced. Commissioner Bicking said that was premature and that disposition of the fields will be discussed later and that could include returning them to natural grass. A resident brought up the conditions in the parking lot and asked about putting down a hard surface. Commissioner Bicking said that the Borough of Bellmawr has a paving department and they may get into discussions with them concerning an inter-local agreement to pave the lot. That will all depend on funding being available in the next budget. The same resident said that he saw a long list of delinquent property taxes in the newspaper. Commissioner Gannon said there will be a tax sale in December.
Mayor Ward reminded everyone that the annual Fire Department Holiday parade will be November 27th at 7:00 PM, beginning at Paul VI parking lot and moving up Pine Street.
NOVEMBER COMMISSION CAUCUS
Audubon, NJ 11/02/10
The Audubon Borough Commissioners met in caucus tonight.
COMMISSIONERS PUBLIC MEETING – OCTOBER VIDEO FROM THE PREVIOUS CAUCUS IS UP ON THE BOROUGH WEBSITE Audubon, NJ 10/19/10
The salary ordinance for 2010 was introduced; there will be a public hearing on it November 23, 2010.
In addition, resolutions were passed to renew membership in the Camden County Municipal joint insurance fund, authorize a shared services agreement with the County for snow plowing and to enter the Beloit Avenue repaving (to be paid for by NJDOT) into the budget.
Commissioner Bicking explained that it is the County’s responsibility to plow snow from the streets in Audubon that are County roads. He said that under the shared services agreement, the Borough will plow them and the County will provide $250 worth of salt per linear mile in exchange.
Commissioner Gannon said that the Borough will shortly introduce an ordinance to change the SID, in effect, taking over the responsibility regarding management of funds previously held by the SID management corporation that was dissolved .
Mayor Ward said that a draft agreement between the Boroughs of Audubon and Haddonfield for court services to be provided by Audubon is in transit and should arrive soon. He also said that a shared services agreement for EMS services with Haddon Heights and Audubon Park is under negotiation, but currently runs through 2011.
He also announced that "Trick or Treat" will be held on Sunday, October 31st between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
The Borough Solicitor warned that here is pending legislation that will affect “Fair Housing” if passed by the State Legislature. The Borough could be affected financially through required changes to the Master Plan and engineering associated with this legislation.
The video of the October 5, 2010 Commissioners’ caucus is available at the Borough website
WEEKEND IN AUDUBON
EVENTS ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 16, 2010
SOCCER, YARD SALE, GRAND OPENING VIDEO NEWS REPORT CLICK BELOW
GRAND OPENING SATURDAY- MAYOR TO ATTEND LIVE IN JOY YOGA & WELLNESS OPENS ON MERCHANT STREET Audubon, NJ 10/13/10
A new business will be opening Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 118 Merchant Street.
Live In Joy Yoga and Wellness will open their doors at 8:00 AM with a Yin Yoga class by Janet. That will be followed by a series of events throughout the day including Vinyassa Flow with Shelly, Angel Card Readings with Kathy Milano, a Partner Yoga Workshop with Katie Brennan and Greg Pettiti, Family Yoga and a Party with vegetarian snacks from Lillian’s and music by Norman Taylor and Robin Renee.
But, the main event will be the Grand Opening and Yoga with Mayor John Ward from 11:30 until noon.
AUDUBON PARK AWARDS
NEIGHBORING AUDUBON PARK RECOGNIZED POLICE AND FIREFIGHTERS WITH SPECIAL AWARDS -VIDEO REPORT
Audubon Park, NJ 10/4/10
COPS AND ROBBERS
Audubon, NJ 10/01/10
There was quite a bit of Police activity this week in the Audubon area. On Thursday there was an attempted bank robbery at the Beneficial Bank on the White Horse Pike near Graisbury Avenue. According to Audubon Police Chief Tom Tassi and the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office a lone individual entered the bank about 9:40 AM Thursday and passed a note to a teller demanding money. The teller refused to hand over any cash and the would- be robber left. About an hour later the same man successfully held up a TD Bank in Bellmawr and according to Chief Tassi he struck a third bank at Woodcrest Station as well. Chief Tassi says that the Audubon Police Department is working with a number of other law enforcement agencies in the investigation including the FBI and Camden County Prosecutor’s investigators.
Earlier in the week, two Audubon residents were arrested in Haddon Heights on burglary charges. While there have been a rash of burglaries in Audubon recently, Chief Tassi says that these individuals are not the suspects that Audubon Police believe are responsible for the majority of break-ins here and that the Audubon investigation is still ongoing.
On a positive note former Audubon Police Officer Brenndan Sparkevicius was sworn in as a Woodlynne Police Officer yesterday. According to Chief Tassi, Sparkevicius had served as an Audubon Officer for about five years but was laid off when the Audubon Park policing contract expired. Tassi said that Sparkevicius was a good worker and that he was glad to see him back in law enforcement. Woodlynne had been receiving policing services from Collingswood that expire Saturday and their newly reestablished Woodlynne Police Department will begin patrolling Sunday.
VIDEO NEWS REPORT ABOUT AUDUBON WOMEN'S LEAGUE
Audubon, NJ 9/22/10
Audubon Women's League held a fundraiser Tuesday at The Treehouse Coffee shop. We interviewed the new AWL President, Kim Meyers.
AUDUBON TO RECEIVE $253,749 IN FEDERAL SCHOOL FUNDING
Audubon NJ 9/21/10
Audubon will be receiving $253,749 in Federal school funding under the Education Jobs Act. The U.S. Department of Education announced recently that New Jersey’s application for $268 million in federal funds has been approved.
The U.S. Department of Education requires the Education Jobs funds be spent by September 2012.
Spending will be carefully monitored to ensure that accurate reports can be filed with the U.S. Department of Education detailing how these funds were used to retain, rehire or hire new teachers or support personnel. They cannot be used to fund District level administration personnel.
By comparison in neighboring communities with full K-12 programs, Collingswood received $363,276, Haddon Township received $294,661, Haddon Heights received $59,238 and Haddonfield received $50,588. Audubon’s sending district Mt. Ephraim received $124,618. Audubon Park was recently merged into the Audubon School District and did not receive funding.
HADDONFIELD COURT MERGER VERY CLOSE
Audubon, NJ 9/16/10
According to Audubon Borough Administrator, Dave Taraschi there is an agreement in principal with the Borough of Haddonfield to create a shared services agreement in which Audubon would provide court services to Haddonfield. The way was cleared earlier this week by the Haddonfield Borough Commissioners to draft an agreement. Taraschi says that the proposal provided to Haddonfield gives them several options that they need to select. One option deals with night court – Haddonfield has night court; Audubon does not and this could affect the costs of services provided if selected.
STOLEN CAR STOPPED AT WHITE HORSE PIKE AND PINE DRIVER CAPTURED AFTER FOOT CHASE
Audubon, NJ 9/10/10
According to Collingswood Police Lieutenant Glenn Prince a car stolen at the WAWA located at Haddon Avenue and Cuthbert Blvd in Collingswood was recovered and the driver arrested after a chase that ended at Pine Street and the White Horse Pike in Audubon.
The car was taken from the parking lot of the WAWA at about 8:52AM where it was parked with the motor left running. It was later seen by a Haddon Township Detective Sergeant Scott Bishop in the vicinity of Hopkins Road and Crystal Lake Avenue where the detective gave chase. Assisted by Audubon Police Officer Candace Gorman the car was stopped and the driver, who jumped out, was chased on foot by Bishop and Gorman and apprehended.
The driver, Shawn Hunt age 24 of Paulsboro , was captured near the corner of Pine Street and the White Horse Pike. Hunt was charged by Collingswood Police with motor vehicle theft. He was taken to Camden County jail where bail was set at $15,000.
FIRE SNARLS TRAFFIC ON WHP
Haddon Twp. 9/10/10
A multi-alarm fire at the Newton Diner on the White Horse Pike near Ormand Ave snarled traffic this morning. The Pike was closed at Cuthbert Road westbound (toward Philly) from Audubon and local commuters were forced to detour. The fire was discovered by Haddon Township police at about 4:45 AM and the Haddon Township fire Department responded. Shortly after, the fire siren sounded in Audubon and firefighters from Audubon and other surrounding towns responded as well.
Photo from the scene at about 7:45 AM
PFEFFERLE IS OUT OF JAIL SHE MADE BAIL
Audubon Park, NJ 9/9/10
According to an administrator at the Camden County Corrections Facility, Paige Pfefferle was released on bail sometime after 6:00 PM on Tuesday, September 7, 2010. We have no information regarding her whereabouts or other details. We are checking with local officials and will report further when we know more. When we spoke to the Camden County Prosecutors Office regarding her status yesterday, they said we should contact the jail.
SEPTEMBER COMMISSIONERS CAUCUS BUDGET APPROVED, FEMA GRANT COMING, FLU SHOTS TO BE BACK IN TOWN AND OEM MAKES A NUMBER OF RECOMMENDATIONS.
Audubon, NJ 9/7/10
A number of resolutions were passed tonight at the Audubon Commissioners Caucus
PFEFFERLE CLAIMS STABBING AN ACCIDENT MOTHER CALLED 911
Camden, NJ 9/7/10
Camden County Prosecutor Warren W. Faulk reported a 19-year-old charged with killing her boyfriend was being held at the Camden County Jail on $500,000 cash or bond Tuesday.Superior Court Judge Samuel Natal set bail during an arraignment Tuesday morning. Paige Pfefferle, of the first block of Pelican Court in Audubon Park, is charged with Murder in connection with the stabbing death of Matthew Hus, a 21-year-old Audubon man, about 2 a.m. Saturday.
According to the State’s probable cause document, the stabbing took place during an argument between Hus and Pfefferle at the defendant’s home. Pfefferle’s mother, with whom she lives, and was home at the time and called 9-1-1.
After the stabbing Hus was taken by ambulance to Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center in Camden. He was pronounced dead there about 3:30 a.m. An autopsy determined Hus was injured by a downward thrust of a sharp object into his chest which punctured his aorta.
According to the State’s probable cause statement, Pfefferle admitted to picking up a knife from the kitchen during the argument with Hus intending to scare him. She claims he had his back to her and when he turned around he stepped into the knife.
PFEFFERLE TO BE ARRAIGNED ON MURDER CHARGES TUESDAY
Audubon Park, NJ 9/5/10 UPDATE 3:30 PM
According to Camden County Prosecutor’s Office spokesman, Jason Laughlin, Paige Pfefferle of Audubon Park will be arraigned in the murder of Matthew Hus of Audubon that occurred early Saturday morning in Audubon Park. The arraignment is set for this Tuesday September 7, 2010. She will be charged with murder as a result of an interview conducted with her by the Prosecutor’s Office.
Laughlin said that a call came into the County 911 center early Saturday morning with a report of an unconscious male. Police from Audubon and Haddon Township and an ambulance were dispatched at that time and according to the Prosecutor’s office,
Audubon Police were first to arrive at the scene. His office was immediately notified as is policy regarding this sort of crime. When police arrived Hus was still alive and was transported by ambulance to Our Lady of Lourdes hospital. Investigators from the Prosecutor’s Office arrived within 15 minutes and conducted a crime scene investigation that is still ongoing.
Hus later died at the hospital. Pfefferle is currently in the Camden County jail. Bail will be set at the formal arraignment Tuesday. Laughlin said that the Prosecutor’s office usually request that the judge set bail at $500,000 in murder cases, but could not comment on the specifics of this one. He said that more information will become public as a result of the arraignment procedure Tuesday
MURDER IN THE PARK
Audubon Park, NJ 9/5/10
There was a fatal stabbing in Audubon Park early Saturday morning. This has been confimed to us by Haddon Township Police Chief Mark Cavallo who says that initial news reports are substantially correct with regard to the principals involved. But, Cavallo told us that press relations are being handled by the Camden County Prosecutor's office and we should contact them.
We are in the process of collecting more facts and will report further when we have something to add to existing initial news reports elsewhere.
In the meantime, the breaking story is available from the Courier-Post at:
COULD BE MONTHS BEFORE COVELY ISSUE EVEN BEGINS TO GET SETTLED
Audubon, NJ 8/19/10
We spoke to the Gloucester County Prosecutors office today to see if we could get an update on the Donna Covely case. While their spokesperson could not comment on the specifics of Covely's case, he was willing to talk in generalities about how these things progress. It usually takes several months for a case to reach the grand jury and that would be the beginning of the process that would bring her to Superior Court, if she is indicted . In the interim, the Prosecutor could decide to reduce the charges and remand her to municipal court where they would be heard by the Mantua judge.
Another possibility is a "pre-trial intervention" (PTI). PTI is a way for a non-violent first time offender to clear their record without going to trial. In a PTI, the actual charges would disappear and the offender would need to meet certain requirements to fulfill their debt to society. For example, attending "anger management classes". In that case, the only blemish on a person's record is that they went through a PTI program.
While none of the above mentioned are referenced to the Covely situation, nor are they predictions of what will happen, it could be quite a while before any of this is settled.
SCHOOL BOARD MAKES IT OFFICIAL -
COVELY SUSPENDED
Audubon NJ 8/18/10
The Audubon Board of Education held their formal meeting tonight. The board members went into a closed session for about 8 minutes immediately after the start of the meeting to discuss a personnel matter. When they returned Board President Ralph Gilmore announced that Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Donna Covely was suspended with pay pending the outcome of legal issues she is facing. This formalized an action that had been taken over the weekend. While somewhat ant-climatic, it drew the attention of Philadelphia TV channels 6 and 10 that had video crews and reporters on location inside the media room along with a number of reporters from the print press.
Gilmore turned the floor over to Superintendent Don Borden who reiterated that Covely's duties would be handled temporarily by other Administrators and staff of the Physical Education Department as well as other faculty members where required. Borden did reveal some new information, however. He said that fall and winter are very busy times for scholastic athletics and the Board is considering hiring an interim Athletic Director. He said that this could happen as early as the end of summer.
AUDUBON ASST. PRINCIPAL ARRESTED AND SUSPENDED
Audubon, NJ 8/16/10
We followed up on news reports Friday that Audubon Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Donna Covely had been arrested in Gloucester County on charges stemming from a domestic incident in which it was reported that she fired shots into her husband’s unoccupied pick-up truck during a domestic dispute.
AUDUBON ASST. PRINCIPAL POSSIBLY INVOLVED IN SHOOTING INCIDENT
Audubon, NJ 8/13/10
Several news organization including The Gloucester County Times, NJ.COM and WPVI Action News are reporting that Audubon High School Assistant Principal Donna Covely was involved in a shooting incident today in Gloucester County. Information is sketchty, but the news organizations report that she fired shots into her husband's unoccupied pick-up truck and was charged and released. None of those news organizations report any injuries. We are following up and will report further when we can get confirmation and details from official sources.
