The record

Timeline

Every dated step in the decisions Bernards residents are following — assembled from township minutes and notices, county and state records, ordinances and court filings, with the citation for each one attached to the entry.

Entries
91
Citations
155
Meetings on the record
33
Covering
2024 — 2026

Where this stands

Where the issues residents are following stand now.

  • The former Lord Stirling School. The Township Committee voted 3–2 on Nov. 11, 2025 to have the Planning Board study 99 Lord Stirling Road and 25 Sherwood Drive as an area in need of redevelopment, without eminent domain. The Board opened its hearing Oct. 20, 2026 and carried it to Dec. 8, the township’s recording shows; it has not voted.
  • Police. Eight patrol officers hired in 2026, Class III officers placed in the schools, and an $835,000 federal radio grant accepted Oct. 13.
  • Parks. The $1,840,125 federal request for Pleasant Valley Park is in a House appropriations bill that has not been enacted; Mountain Park’s turf fields were replaced in 2026.
  • The 2026 budget. Adopted April 28, 5–0: $49.77 million, with a municipal tax rate of 0.246 per $100 and no municipal debt.
  • The housing plan. The court certified the township’s Fourth Round plan (24 rehabilitation, 198 new affordable homes) in April 2026, with protection from builder’s-remedy suits through June 30, 2035.
  • Data centers. Ordinance #2599, adopted 4–0 on June 23, 2026, prohibits data centers in every zone.
  • Allen Road. After a resident died after being struck by a car on Allen Road in October 2025, residents spoke 17 times at four Committee meetings; county and township engineering studies were under way, the Mayor said in January.
  • 131 Morristown Road. On Oct. 28, 2026 the Zoning Board’s motion to approve 125 age-restricted townhouses drew four votes to three, the township’s recording shows; a use variance needs five.

Entries dated in the future are deadlines or scheduled dates from the record, not predictions. Where sources conflict, the entry says so and cites both.

How to read an entry

  • 13 entries are marked “Key moment.” They carry a heavier rule and a larger headline — the pivots in the story.
  • Status says where a thing stands: milestone, resolved, active, in court, or pending.
  • Sources close every entry. Where an event happened at a catalogued meeting, a “Watch this moment” link opens the township’s video at the exact second.

Jump to: 2026 2025 2024

Filter the timeline

Topic
Status

Showing all 91 entries

2026 74 entries

  1. Land use and development Resolved Key moment

    Morristown Road townhouses: 4-3 vote falls short of the five a use variance needs — link to this entry

    The township's recording shows the motion to approve the 125-unit plan received four votes for and three against. A "d" variance needs at least five affirmative votes, so the relief was not granted.

    NJ Hills reported that Baumann, Kraus and Silver voted no and Pochtar, Lindeman, Trapp and Ladyzinski voted yes. The township had not posted minutes of this meeting as of Nov. 1, 2026; the outcome will be checked against them and the Board’s memorializing resolution once posted.

    Meeting record Zoning Board of Adjustment — October 28, 2026

  2. Land use and development Pending Key moment

    Planning Board opens hearing on the Lord Stirling School study and carries it to Dec. 8 — link to this entry

    The township's recording shows the Board took no vote and the hearing was carried to Dec. 8, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., with no further notice.

    The township had not posted minutes of this meeting as of Nov. 1, 2026; this outcome will be checked against them once posted.

    Meeting record Planning Board — October 20, 2026

  3. Roads and utilities Pending

    Sewerage Authority sets Nov. 24 hearing on 2027 sewer rates — link to this entry

    The BTSA noticed a hearing for Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2026, 6:00 p.m., at One Collyer Lane "to set the rates for sewer usage and connection fee for the year 2027." The notice gives no proposed rates.

    The Authority’s regular meeting follows the hearing, and “formal action will be taken at this time.” The 2027 rates are pending.

  4. Open space and environment Pending

    Rep. Kean says $1.84 million for Pleasant Valley Park is in a House bill — link to this entry

    Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. visited Pleasant Valley Park and said he "secured" $1.84 million for its culvert and paths "in a House Appropriations bill." The Mayor said the project "advances for consideration for FY2027 funding." The money is not yet enacted.

    The township’s headline reads “Congressman Kean Visits Bernards Township to Highlight $1.84 Million for Pleasant Valley Park!” It says the culvert would end vehicles driving “through the stream that intersects the park road, negatively impacting the water quality,” and allow new paths.

  5. Township government Resolved Key moment

    $835,000 federal police radio grant accepted, 5-0 — link to this entry

    The Committee accepted an $835,000 award from the U.S. Office of Justice Programs for the 2026 Police Communications Upgrade Project and added it to the 2026 budget (Res. #2026-0420, consent agenda, 5-0).

    The grant period runs from July 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. The resolution inserts the $835,000 as both revenue and appropriation. Rep. Kean’s office describes it as FY2026 Community Project Funding to buy 89 tri-band radios covering multiple frequencies.

    Meeting record Township Committee — October 13, 2026

  6. Roads and utilities Resolved

    School-day stopping ban on Peachtree and Woodstone roads; Church Street parking limits — link to this entry

    Ord. #2606 bars stopping or standing on Peachtree Road and Woodstone Road on school days, 8:00–9:30 a.m. and 2:30–4:00 p.m.; Ord. #2607 bars parking on parts of Church Street east of the Liberty Corner Firehouse. Both 5-0.

    Roll call on both: Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy aye. No one spoke on #2606; one resident spoke in support of #2607 and to clarify its location (450 feet on the north side, 480 feet on the south side).

    Meeting record Township Committee — October 13, 2026

  7. Open space and environment Pending

    Committee members state differing views on a Highlands opt-in — link to this entry

    NJ Hills reported that Committeeman McNally read a statement opposing an opt-in, Committeewoman Asay pointed to planning grants, and Mayor Duarte McCarthy said she supports an initial assessment of the effect of conformance. The item was not on the agenda and no action was taken.

    The minutes record the discussion only as committee members’ reports on their boards and recent activities.

    Meeting record Township Committee — October 13, 2026

  8. Land use and development Pending

    Zoning Board meets in closed session on the Allen Road lawsuit; no hearing held — link to this entry

    The Board's agenda listed an executive session on SOM-L-000481-25. TAPinto reported no hearing was held because the applicant was not present and no date was set. The Board's Oct. 28 agenda listed the same closed session.

    The township had not posted minutes of the Oct. 7 or Oct. 28 meetings as of Nov. 1, 2026.

    Meeting record Zoning Board of Adjustment — October 7, 2026

  9. Land use and development Resolved

    Zoning Board approves Millington Baptist Church's parking lot plan — link to this entry

    ZB26-011 sought site plan approval, bulk variances and a "d" variance for a conditional use to reconfigure parking at 498 and 520 King George Road. The township's recording shows the Board approved it, 7-0.

    The township had not posted minutes of this meeting as of Nov. 1, 2026; the outcome will be checked against them once posted.

    Meeting record Zoning Board of Adjustment — October 7, 2026

  10. Taxes and budget Resolved

    Online tax sale of 2025 and prior delinquent taxes — link to this entry

    The Tax Collector's online sale of liens for 2025 and prior-year delinquent taxes and municipal charges was set to conclude at 8:30 a.m. on October 6, 2026, after notices on September 8, 15, 22 and 29.

    The notice says each lien is offered at the lowest interest rate bid, not above the statutory rate, and that owners may redeem a tax sale certificate until a Superior Court judgment bars it. The township’s October 2026 newsletter says the Tax Collector’s office was “finalizing the annual tax sale.” The 2025 audit records seven tax title liens at the end of 2025. LocalWhy has not reviewed the sale’s results.

  11. Land use and development Resolved

    Planning Board extends Fellowship Village's approvals to 2027 — link to this entry

    PB22-005C: deadlines to sign plans extended to March 31, 2027 and to obtain permits to Sept. 30, 2027, and the approvals to Oct. 3, 2027, with the existing stormwater design kept. Approved 9-0.

    The Board’s engineer said keeping the current stormwater design would have no negative consequences for the township.

    Meeting record Planning Board — October 6, 2026

  12. Land use and development Pending

    Redevelopment study of the Lord Stirling School lots put on file; hearing set for Oct. 20 — link to this entry

    The Planning Board gave notice that the Burgis Associates study, "Block 3101, Lots 2 & 3, Area in Need of Redevelopment Study," was on file for inspection and that the Board would hold a public hearing and vote on a recommendation to the Township Committee.

    The study is available at the Engineering Services Building, 277 South Maple Avenue, and the Municipal Building. The notice says a designation would not authorize the township to use eminent domain.

  13. Roads and utilities Pending

    Paving rebids rejected; resolution cites record diesel and asphalt prices — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0409 rejected five rebids for 2026 Road Improvements, lowest $2,284,399.60 (Reivax), saying "diesel and asphalt prices have hit record highs" and the project will be rebid "when bidding can be optimized." Adopted 4-0 (McNally absent).

    Bids opened Sept. 9: Reivax $2,284,399.60, DLS Contracting $2,293,063.45, Crossroads Paving $2,296,133.80, Cifelli & Son $2,442,771.00, Top Line $2,493,193.16. New Jersey Hills Media reported that the Township Engineer said the township would look to rebid the 15-street program next spring.

    Meeting record Township Committee — September 29, 2026

  14. Roads and utilities Active

    Lake Road completion moved to Nov. 10 after utility relocations — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0408 extended the DLS Contracting completion date for Lake Road three weeks, from Oct. 20 to Nov. 10, 2026, at no additional cost, because "unforeseen utility relocations have caused delays." Adopted 4-0.

    The notice to proceed was issued June 22, 2026. The township’s Oct. 20 update says path paving, grading and seeding will be followed by a full week of milling and paving.

    Meeting record Township Committee — September 29, 2026

  15. Land use and development Pending Key moment

    Court sends the 150 Allen Road application back to the Zoning Board — link to this entry

    Patch and TAPinto reported that Judge Robert Ballard found the Board's decision not to consider the timely reconsideration request "arbitrary, capricious, and unreasonable" and remanded the request and revised plan for the Board's consideration, without ruling on the merits of the denial.

    As Patch quoted it, the Board is to consider the revised proposal under the ordinances in effect when the application was filed. LocalWhy has not reviewed the court’s statement of reasons.

  16. Open space and environment Pending

    Township hosts a Highlands Council presentation on plan conformance — link to this entry

    Ben Spinelli, executive director of the New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council, gave a township-sponsored presentation at the Municipal Building on what conforming to the Highlands Regional Master Plan would mean for Bernards.

    The session was informational; no vote was taken. Committeewoman Asay later said the slides were posted on the township’s site, NJ Hills reported.

  17. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Sewerage Authority change orders: Annin Road pump station cut to $740,725 — link to this entry

    The BTSA's notice lists a $104,271.19 reduction in the Annin Road pump station contract (DeMaio Electrical, to $740,725), two change orders on I&I Phase III (to $900,345.17) and a $30,000 increase in alternate special counsel.

    The Mayor’s October newsletter says the Annin Road and Jamestown Road pump stations are complete.

  18. Land use and development Pending

    Morristown Road applicant agrees to cut the plan to 125 units after a Board straw poll — link to this entry

    Most Zoning Board members said they preferred garages for the affordable units and no more units per building; the applicant's attorney said the plans would be revised to 125 units. The hearing was carried to Oct. 28.

    The applicant extended the Board’s time to act to Oct. 31, 2026.

    Meeting record Zoning Board of Adjustment — September 17, 2026

  19. Open space and environment Resolved

    Riparian conservation easements on North Stone Hedge Drive and Tuxford Terrace accepted — link to this entry

    Ords. #2604 (30 North Stone Hedge Drive) and #2605 (95 Tuxford Terrace) accepted riparian zone conservation easements, each 4-0 (Hodges absent), after hearings with no comment.

    They were the seventh and eighth easements the Committee accepted by ordinance from Nov. 2025 to Sept. 2026. Roll call: Asay, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy aye.

    Meeting record Township Committee — September 15, 2026

  20. Land use and development Resolved

    Planning Board approves Amzak's amended plan for its Mountain View Boulevard apartments, 5-1 — link to this entry

    PB26-002 rearranges units in the apartment buildings of the approved 280-unit development (62 affordable) at 180-181 Mountain View Boulevard without changing the totals. Aye Agarwal, Eorio, Mastrangelo, Schaefer, Seville; nay Bannan.

    Two residents questioned or commented; the applicant agreed to have the fire department review the plans.

    Meeting record Planning Board — September 8, 2026

  21. Litigation Pending

    Committee meets in closed session on "Toll/Tavistock v. BTSA" — link to this entry

    The Township Committee went into closed session on "Attorney-Client Privilege - Potential Litigation - Toll/Tavistock v. BTSA" (4-0, McNally absent). The subject is not public and no court filing has been found.

    On Sept. 23 the Authority published a $30,000 change order raising its alternate special counsel contract (Joseph V. Sordillo) to $57,000; the notice does not say what the work concerns.

    Meeting record Township Committee — August 25, 2026

  22. Roads and utilities Resolved Key moment

    All seven bids for the 2026 paving program rejected as over budget — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0383 rejected seven bids for 2026 Road Improvements, lowest $2,098,774.00 (Reivax Contracting Corp.), because "the bid exceeds the amount allocated for this project," with a rebid planned in 2026. Adopted 4-0 (McNally absent).

    Bids were opened Aug. 5, 2026; the highest was $3,333,333.33. Roll call: Asay, Hodges, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy aye.

    Meeting record Township Committee — August 25, 2026

  23. Land use and development Resolved Key moment

    Property maintenance ordinance for non-residential properties adopted, 4-0 — link to this entry

    Ord. #2603 sets exterior upkeep rules for non-residential properties, with fines up to $2,000 a day and township clean-up charged as a tax lien; homes are exempt. Five residents spoke in support and one not in support. Aye Asay, Hodges, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy; McNally absent.

    The Zoning Officer is the only enforcing officer; there is no private right of action.

    Meeting record Township Committee — August 25, 2026

  24. Township government Resolved

    Second Motorola radio order for fire, EMS and emergency management, up to $536,023.28 — link to this entry

    The Committee approved a second Motorola radio purchase, up to $536,023.28, for both fire stations, fire prevention and emergency management, paid from Capital Ordinance #2597 (Res. #2026-0387, consent agenda, 4-0).

    Station 20 (Basking Ridge Fire Company No. 1) $239,898.84; Station 40 (Liberty Corner Fire Company) $209,874.24; Fire Prevention $20,782.10; Emergency Management $35,468.10; and a $30,000.00 contingency for SmartConnect and over-the-air programming. The purchase is under New Jersey State Contract #T0109. Ayes: Asay, Hodges, Tompkins and Duarte McCarthy; McNally was absent.

    Meeting record Township Committee — August 25, 2026

  25. Township government Resolved

    Seven Class III school officers appointed; $201,000 crossing-guard contract — link to this entry

    For 2026-27 the Committee appointed seven Special Law Enforcement Officers III for the schools at $43.71 an hour, approved agreements with the Board of Education and Saint James School, and awarded crossing-guard services up to $201,000, all 5-0 on the consent agenda.

    The officers were appointed part-time effective August 1 (Res. #2026-0366). The Board of Education agreement covers a school resource officer and Class III officers in each district school (Res. #2026-0373); the Saint James School agreement covers a Class III officer (Res. #2026-0374). Crossing Guard Services LLC of Stamford, Connecticut will staff 30 posts at $32.17 an hour and 4 at $36.28 from September 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 (Res. #2026-0369).

    Meeting record Township Committee — August 11, 2026

  26. Land use and development Resolved

    Committee introduces Ord. #2603, property maintenance rules for non-residential properties — link to this entry

    Introduced 5-0 (Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy), with a public hearing set for Aug. 25, 2026. One resident commented on the ordinance at public comment.

    The ordinance adds Section 3-21 to Chapter 3, “Police Regulations.”

    Meeting record Township Committee — August 11, 2026

  27. Taxes and budget Resolved

    "Understanding Your Taxes" public session at Town Hall — link to this entry

    The Mayor, CFO, Tax Collector and Tax Assessor held a public session on how property taxes are calculated, assessment and billing, and where tax dollars go. It was not a Committee meeting.

    Speakers listed on the flyer: Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy, CFO Sean McCarthy, Tax Collector Kevin Sant’Angelo and Tax Assessor Dave Centrelli. The session began at 2:00 p.m. at 1 Collyer Lane. The recording is on the township’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/live/4-tRTjVDPjs); LocalWhy has not reviewed it.

  28. Open space and environment Resolved

    Community-based deer management program continued for 2026-27 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0343 acknowledged the Deer Management Advisory Committee's annual report on the 2025-2026 season for the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife and authorized the program, and an extended-season application, for 2026-2027. Adopted 5-0.

    The resolution’s title refers to a final report on the “2024-2025 CBDMP”; its body acknowledges the annual report on the 2025-2026 season. The report itself is not in the minutes.

    Meeting record Township Committee — July 28, 2026

  29. Land use and development Pending

    Morristown Road townhouse plan revised to 131 units, 26 of them affordable — link to this entry

    The revised site plan showed 131 units in lieu of 119, 105 market-rate and 26 affordable, with one building and the dog park removed. The applicant offered a five-year bond in lieu of sidewalks on Route 202.

    The owner testified that he bought the building about four years ago and had tried for two years to lease it after a large tenant moved out.

    Meeting record Zoning Board of Adjustment — July 16, 2026

  30. Taxes and budget Resolved

    Third-quarter tax grace period extended; online tax sale authorized — link to this entry

    Because the county "could not release the tax rate," the Committee extended the third-quarter grace period to 25 days after bills are mailed (Res. #2026-0339), and authorized the Tax Collector to hold an electronic tax sale (Res. #2026-0337), later noticed for October 6. Both passed 5-0 on the consent agenda.

    Resolution #2026-0339 says “the State of New Jersey has not released all information needed for striking a rate timely,” that the information was needed for the final 2026 and preliminary 2027 bills, and that payments after the extended grace period are charged interest from the original August 1 due date. Resolution #2026-0337 says an electronic sale gives “a greater pool of potential lien buyers.”

    Meeting record Township Committee — July 14, 2026

  31. Township government Resolved

    Application for $835,000 federal police radio grant approved — link to this entry

    The Committee approved an application to the federal FY 2026 Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants program for the police department's $835,000 "Communications Upgrade project," requesting the full amount (Res. #2026-0328, consent agenda, 5-0).

    The resolution authorized the Chief of Police to submit the application. TAPinto reported on August 6, 2026 that Rep. Tom Kean Jr. had presented the $835,000 to the township, for 89 tri-band radios to replace radios that “can only operate on one frequency.” Patrol officer Aidan Benjamin was appointed the same night.

    Meeting record Township Committee — July 14, 2026

  32. Roads and utilities Pending

    Township applies to NJDOT for $1,447,960 for Fairview Drive South, Wayne Terrace and Concord Lane — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0329 approved an NJDOT grant application for 1.06 miles of Fairview Drive South, Wayne Terrace and Concord Lane, requesting the full $1,447,960.00 estimate, 5-0. No award is in the record yet.

    Limits: Fairview Drive South from Queen Anne Drive to Mt. Airy Road; all of Wayne Terrace; Concord Lane from 200 feet north of Queen Anne Drive to Mt. Airy Road.

    Meeting record Township Committee — July 14, 2026

  34. Affordable housing Resolved

    Ridge Oak's payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement extended 40 years — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0301 approved a second amendment to Ridge Oak's 1976 tax abatement agreement (6.28% of annual gross revenues in lieu of property taxes), which was to expire Aug. 17, 2026, extending it 40 years. Consent agenda, 4-0.

    The resolution cites the February 2026 agreement keeping Ridge Oak’s 247 units affordable to Oct. 31, 2072.

    Meeting record Township Committee — June 23, 2026

  35. Open space and environment Resolved

    Twelve Pleasant Valley Park courts to be resurfaced, up to $166,791.69 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0310 awarded resurfacing of six pickleball and six tennis courts at Pleasant Valley Park to Keystone Sports Construction through a cooperative contract, up to $166,791.69, 4-0 (McNally absent).

    The same night the Committee bought playground equipment from Ben Shaffer Recreation, up to $25,137.73. The Mayor’s October newsletter lists the court work as completed this summer.

    Meeting record Township Committee — June 23, 2026

  36. Land use and development Pending

    Fifteen people speak to the Committee about the former Lord Stirling School — link to this entry

    At closing public comment, 13 listed entries naming 15 people "commented on the property located at 99 Lord Stirling Rd (formerly Lord Stirling School)." NJ Hills reported 11 speakers for the owner's plans and two neighbors against.

    The minutes record names and addresses only. Residents spoke about the property again on July 14 (3), July 28 (5), Aug. 11 (4), Sept. 15 (1) and Sept. 29 (1).

    Meeting record Township Committee — June 23, 2026

  37. Data centers Resolved Key moment

    Data centers prohibited in every zone as Ord. #2599 is adopted, 4-0 — link to this entry

    The Committee amended the ordinance to include the Planning Board's recommendation and adopted it (4-0: Asay, Hodges, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy). One speaker, Warren Township Committeeman Daniel Croson, spoke in support.

    “Data processing centers” were removed from the uses permitted in the E-1 to E-5 office zones. The minutes record McNally as absent at roll call, though they list him on the amendment vote (5-0).

    Meeting record Township Committee — June 23, 2026

  38. Taxes and budget Resolved

    2025 audit, with no recommendations, certified 4-0 — link to this entry

    The Committee certified that its members had reviewed the 2025 audit by Nisivoccia LLP (Res. #2026-0312, 4-0, McNally absent). The report, dated May 18, 2026, lists no recommendations.

    The audit’s summary of recommendations reads “None,” and there were no prior-year recommendations. It records a Current Fund balance of $24,178,670.60 at December 31, 2025, of which $16,000,000 is used in the 2026 budget, collection of 99.50% of the 2025 levy, and no municipal debt. A management suggestion asks the township to keep reviewing older grant balances.

    Meeting record Township Committee — June 23, 2026

  39. Data centers Resolved

    Planning Board finds the data-center ban not inconsistent with the Master Plan — link to this entry

    Board planner Allison Fahey found Ord. #2599 not inconsistent with the 2023 Master Plan; the Board also recommended moving all definition text into § 21-3. Motion carried 9-0, Agarwal ineligible.

    The Board attorney said the recommended change was not substantive.

    Meeting record Planning Board — June 16, 2026

  40. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Sewerage Authority awards solar inverter project and expands disinfection design — link to this entry

    The BTSA's notice lists a $550,675 solar inverters project (Pichardo Electric), a third change order raising the peracetic acid disinfection design to $327,770 (T&M Associates) and a $39,500 treatment plant condition assessment.

    It also lists change orders for the Annin Road pump station (DeMaio, to $844,996.19), the East Oak force main Phase III (Messercola, to $585,807.53) and I&I Phase III construction administration (Suburban Consulting, to $107,350).

  41. Open space and environment Pending

    Farmstead may seek up to $590,544 county preservation grant; lease later extended to 2060 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0283 authorized the Friends of the Kennedy-Martin-Stelle Farmstead to apply to the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission for up to $590,544, with a township match up to $59,054. Adopted 5-0.

    The township bought the Farmstead with municipal open space funds in 1999. On June 9 the Committee approved a fifth lease amendment extending the Friends’ lease ten years, to Dec. 31, 2060.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 26, 2026

  42. Data centers Resolved

    Committee introduces Ord. #2599 to prohibit data centers in all zones — link to this entry

    Introduced 5-0 (Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy) and referred to the Planning Board, with a public hearing set for June 23, 2026. The notice with the full text was posted May 27.

    No one spoke on the ordinance at introduction.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 26, 2026

  43. Roads and utilities Resolved

    $72,394.53 Clean Communities grant accepted — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0282 accepted a $72,394.53 NJDEP grant for the 2026 Clean Communities Program and inserted it into the 2026 budget, 5-0.

    The insertion was made under N.J.S. 40A:4-87, which lets the state approve adding grant revenue and a matching appropriation after a budget is adopted.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 26, 2026

  44. Affordable housing Resolved

    Planning Board approves Ridge Oak IV, 29 affordable senior apartments, 7-0 — link to this entry

    PB26-001, Ridge Oak Management, Inc.: a two-story building of 29 one-bedroom age-restricted affordable units at 95 Manchester Drive. Aye Agarwal, Eorio, Mastrangelo, Seville, Smith, Subervi, Tompkins; Schaefer ineligible.

    The Board memorialized the approval (a “c” variance, four exceptions and preliminary and final site plan) on July 21, 2026, and appointed a construction routing and timing committee on Oct. 6.

    Meeting record Planning Board — May 19, 2026

  45. Township government Resolved

    Police promotions approved; one resolution names two officers — link to this entry

    On its consent agenda (5-0) the Committee promoted Mark Neri to lieutenant, Christopher Albanese to sergeant and three officers to corporal. Resolution #2026-0270 names Anthony Severino in its title and WHEREAS clauses and Christopher Albanese in its resolving clause.

    Neri, lieutenant, July 1, $179,389.78 (#2026-0273); Albanese, sergeant, May 15, $149,789.18 (#2026-0275); Kendall Kulik, corporal, July 1, $147,926.30 (#2026-0271); Alec McCrea and James Moore, corporals, May 15, $142,923.97 each (#2026-0272, #2026-0274). Resolution #2026-0270, titled “Personnel Appointment Anthony Severino – Sergeant – Police Department,” resolves that “Christopher Albanese be appointed full-time Sergeant with a promotion date of July 1, 2026 at an annual salary of $155,031.80.” The minutes record no correction. Justin Gladden was appointed patrol officer the same night.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 12, 2026

  46. Taxes and budget Resolved

    Committee urges state reform of public-employee health premiums, 5-0 — link to this entry

    Resolution #2026-0268 urges state leaders to reform State Health Benefits Program costs, citing a 36.25% 2026 rate increase for the Local Government Employer Group.

    The resolution says failure to reform may leave local officials choosing among hiring freezes, eliminating budgeted vacancies and raising taxes, and was sent to the Governor, State Treasurer, legislative leaders, the district’s legislators and the League of Municipalities. The 2026 budget raised employee group insurance from $2,249,797.99 to $2,628,696.57, and the User Friendly Budget lists “Unknown Exorbitant State Health Benefits Plan premium increases” as its one structural imbalance.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 12, 2026

  47. Open space and environment Resolved

    Detention basin, drainage and access easement at 24 Rocky Lane accepted — link to this entry

    Ord. #2596 accepted a detention basin, drainage and access easement on Block 3602, Lot 5 (24 Rocky Lane), 5-0, after a hearing with no comment. A wetlands easement on the same lot was accepted Jan. 27 (Ord. #2591).

    The easement is on file with the Township Clerk.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 12, 2026

  48. Taxes and budget Resolved

    Capital ordinance #2597 adopted: $6,250,380 in cash for roads, parks, police, fire and EMS — link to this entry

    With no public speakers, the Committee adopted Ordinance #2597 5-0, appropriating $6,250,380 from the Capital Improvement Fund. With #2594 it funds the full $7,699,380 2026 capital budget without borrowing.

    Introduced April 28. Items include $2,825,000 for roadway, sidewalk, drainage and pedestrian projects; $635,000 for Public Works road and drainage repairs; $600,000 for fire, EMS and emergency-management radio upgrades; $455,000 for vehicles; $440,000 for building repairs; $299,000 for the Liberty Corner Fire Company; $254,000 for parks; $252,000 for the Basking Ridge Fire Company; $158,430 for police equipment; $105,000 for grounds equipment; $85,000 for the pool; $71,950 for the Basking Ridge First Aid Squad; and $70,000 for systems. Motion Tompkins, second Hodges; ayes Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins and Duarte McCarthy.

    Meeting record Township Committee — May 12, 2026

  49. Open space and environment Resolved

    Cricket pitch enlarged; contract rises to $77,619.65 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0258 added $18,242.11 to the Keystone Sports Construction cricket pitch contract after the Director of Parks & Recreation "determined that an increase in the size of the pitch was necessary." Adopted 5-0.

    A resident spoke at that night’s budget hearing on the need for the cricket pitch. The Mayor’s October newsletter says the pitch is under construction and “expected to officially open in Spring 2027.”

    Meeting record Township Committee — April 28, 2026

  50. Taxes and budget Resolved Key moment

    2026 municipal budget adopted, 5-0 — link to this entry

    After a public hearing with one speaker, the Committee adopted the $49,773,967.75 municipal budget and the $642,234.88 golf utility budget 5-0 (Res. #2026-0256), authorizing $24,315,594.30 in taxes for municipal purposes and $3,261,768.00 for the library.

    Motion Tompkins, second Hodges; ayes Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins and Duarte McCarthy. At the hearing, Linchun Gao commented on the cost of health insurance in the budget. CFO McCarthy explained that the township assesses yearly from comparable sales, so some neighborhoods may see assessments dip or rise. The same night the Committee authorized estimated third-quarter tax bills because the State had not certified its budget, setting the estimated 2026 levy for all entities at $160,724,615.48 (Res. #2026-0257).

    The county’s 2026 abstract later set the municipal rate at 0.246, the library rate at 0.033 and the total rate at 1.661 (2025: 1.688).

    Meeting record Township Committee — April 28, 2026

  51. Affordable housing Resolved Key moment

    Court certifies Bernards' Fourth Round plan, with repose to June 30, 2035 — link to this entry

    Judge William G. Mennen's Consent Order Final Compliance Certification (stamped April 15, filed April 17, 2026) approves the plan and grants repose from exclusionary-zoning and builder's-remedy suits from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2035.

    The order was entered on the joint request of the township and Fair Share Housing Center. It requires yearly reports on the trust fund and units built and allows a midpoint review as of July 1, 2030.

  52. Land use and development Pending

    Zoning Board opens hearings on 119 active-adult townhouses at 131 Morristown Road — link to this entry

    131 Morristown Rd LLC (ZB25-040) proposed removing the office buildings on Route 202 and building 119 two-story active-adult townhouses in 43 buildings, with a clubhouse and pool, seeking use and floor-area variances. Seven residents questioned the engineer.

    The applicant’s attorney said the township could accept a development fee in lieu of affordable units, and that the applicant would build the set-aside on site if required. No vote was taken.

    Meeting record Zoning Board of Adjustment — April 16, 2026

  53. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Committee borrows a Speed Sentry radar speed display from RideWise — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0219 approved a borrowing agreement with RideWise Inc. for the temporary use of a Speed Sentry radar display "to enhance traffic safety and collect vehicle speed data," 4-0 (Asay absent).

    RideWise installs, monitors, collects data from and maintains the device. The resolution does not say where it will be placed. Roll call: Hodges, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy aye.

    Meeting record Township Committee — April 14, 2026

  54. Roads and utilities Resolved

    DPW road repairs awarded to Renda Roads, up to $1,025,000 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0241 awarded DPW road repairs to Renda Roads, Inc. at its 2024 bid unit prices, up to $1,025,000.00, 4-0 (Asay absent). The Committee also met in closed session on potential litigation over the 2025 Reivax road contract.

    Funding: $450,000 from Capital Ordinances #2556, #2579 and #2499, plus $500,000 DPW and $75,000 Parks capital to be budgeted in 2026. On July 28 a change order added $79,952.87 (7.80%), for a total of $1,104,952.87, 5-0.

    Meeting record Township Committee — April 14, 2026

  55. Open space and environment Resolved

    MS4 mapping and watershed inventory re-awarded to Boswell, up to $94,000 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0243 hired Boswell, Inc. for the NJDEP MS4 Mapping and Watershed Inventory Report, up to $94,000.00, from April 14 to Aug. 13, 2026. Adopted 4-0 (Asay absent).

    The earlier award to Aqualis was rescinded Nov. 11, 2025. Roll call: Hodges, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy aye.

    Meeting record Township Committee — April 14, 2026

  56. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Sewerage Authority audit: $5.6 million operating revenue, no recommendations — link to this entry

    The BTSA's audit synopsis for the year ended Nov. 30, 2025 shows operating revenue of $5,599,122, operating expenses of $4,569,370, unrestricted cash of $28,732,305 and net position of $51,631,173. The auditor's recommendations: "None."

    Sewer charges brought in $5,300,245. The township’s own 2025 audit says the Authority has no outstanding debt and that the township has not had to cover an Authority deficit since 1994.

  57. Open space and environment Pending

    Township seeks $1,840,125 in federal funds for a Pleasant Valley Park culvert and paths — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0207 authorized an FY2027 Community Project Funding application to Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. for the "Pleasant Valley Park Culvert and Paths Project," requesting the full $1,840,125.00 estimate. Adopted 4-0 (McNally absent). The same night it ordered a $59,377.54 cricket pitch for the park.

    The cricket pitch pad on existing fields went to Keystone Sports Construction (Res. #2026-0217). It was enlarged on April 28 to $77,619.65.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 24, 2026

  58. Township government Resolved

    Volunteer length-of-service lists accepted: 27 and 14 members — link to this entry

    The Committee accepted the certified 2025 eligibility lists for the Length of Service Awards Program: 27 members of Basking Ridge Fire Company No. 1 and First Aid Squad and 14 of Liberty Corner Fire Company (Res. #2026-0205, consent agenda, 4-0).

    The resolution records that voters approved the program on November 5, 2002 and that AIG VALIC is the provider (Res. #030353, November 11, 2003). It names the members but states no award amounts; the 2026 budget line for the program is $101,947.50. Committeeman McNally was absent.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 24, 2026

  59. Taxes and budget Resolved

    2026 municipal budget introduced, 4-0 — link to this entry

    CFO Sean McCarthy presented a $49,773,967.75 budget with a municipal tax rate of 0.246 per $100, and the Committee introduced it 4-0 (Res. #2026-0213), Committeeman McNally absent, setting the public hearing for April 28.

    Motion Hodges, second Tompkins; ayes Asay, Hodges, Tompkins and Duarte McCarthy. Taxes would raise $24,315,594.30 for municipal purposes and $3,261,768.00 for the library. The golf utility budget, $642,234.88, was introduced the same night (Res. #2026-0216).

    The records describe the change from 2025 in different ways. The minutes say the budget “is an increase of 2.46% over the 2025 budget” and the rate “is down 4.33% from 2025’s rate of .253.” The CFO’s deck shows total appropriations up 0.48%, operations excluding capital, grants and reserve up 4.33%, the tax levy up 3.44% and the rate down 2.52%; the state User Friendly Budget form gives the rate change as −2.77%.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 24, 2026

  60. Open space and environment Pending

    Township seeks $250,000 in federal funds for stormwater planning — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0202 approved an FY2027 Community Project Funding application to Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. for engineering to update the Stormwater Management Plan and prepare a Watershed Assessment Report and Watershed Improvement Plan, requesting the full $250,000. Adopted 4-0 (Tompkins absent).

    The work is required under NJDEP’s municipal stormwater regulations. No award appears in the record LocalWhy has reviewed.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 10, 2026

  61. Affordable housing Resolved

    Ord. #2593 adopted to apply the state's Fourth Round housing rules — link to this entry

    Ord. #2593 adds Code § 21-87 so the state's new affordable-housing rules govern where older sections conflict, a condition of the court's conditional compliance order. Adopted 4-0 (Asay, Hodges, McNally, Duarte McCarthy); no public comment.

    The ordinance dates the conditional order Jan. 8, 2026; its Feb. 11 introduction notice said Dec. 19, 2025.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 10, 2026

  62. Open space and environment Resolved

    Mountain Park turf replacement awarded to FieldTurf, up to $960,826 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0201 bought replacement synthetic turf for two Mountain Park fields from FieldTurf USA through a cooperative contract, up to $960,826.00, 4-0 (Tompkins absent).

    Funding: $750,000 from Capital Ordinance #2594 and $210,826 from #2579. The Mayor’s October newsletter lists the turf replacement among projects completed this summer.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 10, 2026

  63. Taxes and budget Resolved

    First 2026 capital ordinance, #2594, adopted: $1,449,000 in cash — link to this entry

    The Committee adopted Ordinance #2594 4-0 with no public speakers, appropriating $1,449,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for parks, building repairs, vehicles and systems.

    Items: $750,000 for parks and recreation facilities; $175,000 for repairs to township buildings, including police headquarters; $300,000 for vehicle replacements; and $224,000 for systems, including police mobile data terminals. The ordinance was introduced 5-0 on February 24. Its explanatory statement says these items needed an early start “to receive the most competitive bids,” with the rest of the capital budget to follow after the budget was adopted. Ayes on adoption: Asay, Hodges, McNally and Duarte McCarthy.

    Meeting record Township Committee — March 10, 2026

  64. Affordable housing Resolved

    Committee adopts the housing spending plan and extends Ridge Oak affordability to 2072 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0177 adopted the Fourth Round Spending Plan and Res. #2026-0189 an agreement keeping Ridge Oak's 247 senior units affordable from Nov. 1, 2032 to Oct. 31, 2072, the condition for a Ridge Oak IV site plan. Both 5-0.

    The township intends to use the extended controls toward a future (Fifth Round) obligation, the resolution says.

    Meeting record Township Committee — February 24, 2026

  65. Township government Resolved

    Police department reaccreditation recognized — link to this entry

    The Committee recognized the police department's reaccreditation by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (Res. #2026-0155), presenting the resolution to Chief Tim King and Lieutenant Alex McKnight.

    The association’s accreditation program director, Harry J. Delgado, spoke about the three-year reaccreditation process. The resolution was “unanimously agreed.” The same night the Committee approved a Ford F-150 police responder, up to $46,085 (Res. #2026-0171).

    Meeting record Township Committee — February 10, 2026

  66. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Janice Fields appointed to the Sewerage Authority to 2031 — link to this entry

    The Township Committee appointed Janice M. Fields to a five-year term on the Bernards Township Sewerage Authority ending Jan. 31, 2031, 5-0 (Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins, Duarte McCarthy).

    Fields was mayor in 2025. The Authority’s other members are Kevin Orr (chair), John Crane (vice chair), David Tancredi and Committeeman Andrew McNally.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 27, 2026

  67. Open space and environment Active

    Culberson Road storm sewer study awarded to Boswell, up to $40,500 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0154 hired Boswell, Inc. for a Culberson Road Storm Sewer Study, up to $40,500.00, through July 27, 2026, 5-0. On June 23 the term was extended to Nov. 27, 2026 (Res. #2026-0324, 4-0).

    The extension says the township “requires additional time to conduct the Culberson Road Storm Sewer Study”; no added cost is stated. The study’s results are not yet in the record.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 27, 2026

  68. Roads and utilities Resolved

    2026 county curbside recycling agreement: $28.16 per household — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0145 approved the 2026 interlocal services agreement for Somerset County to provide recycling pickup at $28.16 per household, the count adjusted quarterly. Adopted 5-0 on the consent agenda.

    The 2026 introduced budget carries $306,690.56 for county curbside recycling (2025: $290,500.00). The money is moved to a trust fund “earmarked exclusively for Recycling Expenditures.”

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 27, 2026

  69. Taxes and budget Resolved

    Cap bank ordinance #2592 adopted, 5-0 — link to this entry

    With no public speakers, the Committee adopted Ordinance #2592, letting the 2026 budget's final appropriations rise up to 3.5% over 2025, "no more than $1,105,014.45," and banking any unused amount for two years.

    The ordinance was introduced 4-0 on January 13 (McNally absent). It states that the state cap law limits a budget increase to 2% unless an ordinance raises it to 3.5%, and that the 1.5% above the otherwise permitted increase amounts to $473,577.62. Ayes: Asay, Hodges, McNally, Tompkins and Duarte McCarthy.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 27, 2026

  70. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Sewerage Authority publishes 2026 contracts: header piping, I&I Phase III, Annin Road pump station — link to this entry

    The BTSA's notice lists a $908,600 inflow-and-infiltration Phase III contract (National Water Main Cleaning Co.), Annin Road pump station work at $808,952.30 (DeMaio Electrical) and plant header piping reduced to $606,270 (Spectraserv), plus 2026 professional contracts.

    The notice prints the I&I Phase III original contract as “$908,60.00” and its not-to-exceed amount as $908,600.00; later notices use $908,600.00. Professional contracts: T&M Associates (engineering) $65,000; Jason N. Sena (legal) $20,000; Richard P. Flaum (labor counsel) $3,000; Joseph V. Sordillo (alternate special counsel) $27,000; Nisivoccia (auditor) $18,140.

  71. Roads and utilities Active

    Three more residents speak on Allen Road; tort claim notices reported — link to this entry

    Three residents commented on Allen Road, the last such comments in the minutes. Patch reported that the Township Attorney mentioned two tort claim notices that night and advised the Committee not to comment further.

    Patch reported that the two notices, one for the estate and one individual, name the township, Somerset County, the State of New Jersey and the driver, and seek $5 million; a New Jersey Hills Media headline gives $30 million. LocalWhy has not seen the notices, and no lawsuit has been found. The minutes list the attorney as present but do not summarize the remark.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 13, 2026

  72. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Air monitoring at the closed Pill Hill landfill renewed for 2026 — link to this entry

    Res. #2026-0036 hired T & M Associates (Michael Heumiller, LSRP) for 2026 air monitoring at the Pill Hill Landfill, 5-0. The title gives up to $11,750.00; the contract terms in the body give $12,500.00.

    The contract is charged to the Solid Waste Collection account. Monitoring results are not in the minutes.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 6, 2026

  73. Roads and utilities Active

    Mayor: county and township "proceeding with several engineering studies" on Allen Road — link to this entry

    At the reorganization meeting Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy said Allen Road "is among the most enforced for traffic safety in the Township," that the county and township were proceeding with engineering studies with outcomes expected "within the next few months," and that the township was exploring education with RideWise Inc.

    She said she and Committeeman Andrew McNally, who serve on the police subcommittee, were “in communication with residents, county and staff alike regarding this priority.” No result of the studies appears in the Committee minutes through Oct. 13, 2026.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 6, 2026

  74. Open space and environment Resolved

    Deer Management Advisory Committee appointed for 2026 — link to this entry

    The Committee appointed the 2026 Deer Management Advisory Committee: Officer Olivia Strama of the Police Department as coordinator, six resident members and Deputy Mayor John Tompkins as liaison, for one-year terms.

    Resident members: William L. Allen, Curtis Graham, Leon Harris, William Nobels, Robert Rich, Jr. and Robert Vincent.

    Meeting record Township Committee — January 6, 2026

2025 15 entries

  1. Taxes and budget Resolved

    $4 million of unspent 2025 appropriations returned to fund balance — link to this entry

    The Committee cancelled $4,000,000.00 of unexpended 2025 budget appropriations so the money would be credited to fund balance (Res. #2025-0446, consent agenda, 5-0).

    The largest cancelled lines were legal services ($300,151.00), utilities ($251,897.93), employee group insurance ($210,628.01), code enforcement ($209,884.99) and snow ($189,000.00). The CFO’s 2026 budget deck lists the $4,000,000 as “CAP Base Cancelations” among the additions to fund balance from 2025 operations; the same amount appears in the 2026 budget as a “CAP adjustment provision.”

    Meeting record Township Committee — December 23, 2025

  2. Township government Resolved

    Motorola radios for both fire stations, up to $500,058.05 — link to this entry

    The Committee approved Motorola radio equipment for Basking Ridge Fire Company No. 1 (Station 20), Liberty Corner Fire Company (Station 40) and township fire prevention, up to $500,058.05 (Res. #2025-0430, consent agenda, 4-0).

    Station 20 $208,426.92; Station 40 $211,022.96; Fire Prevention $35,148.35; 10% contingency $45,459.82. The purchase, through Wireless C&E under New Jersey State Contract #83909, is charged to capital accounts and an EMS trust account. Ayes: Asay, Duarte McCarthy, Tancredi and Deputy Mayor McNally; Mayor Fields was absent. The same night the Committee approved Motorola in-car and body-worn camera systems for the police, up to $73,372.00 for the first year (Res. #2025-0442).

    Meeting record Township Committee — December 9, 2025

  3. Open space and environment Resolved

    2026 Pleasant Valley Pool fees set: resident family $530 early, $620 regular — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0422 set 2026 pool fees on the recommendation of the Parks Director and Pool Commission, including resident family $530/$620, single $275/$365 and senior or disabled adult $125/$150. Adopted 4-0 (Fields absent).

    Early rates applied through March 31, regular rates from April 1. Non-resident family membership was $850 early or $950 regular; new resident members pay a $350 family or $175 single initiation fee.

    Meeting record Township Committee — December 9, 2025

  4. Open space and environment Resolved

    2026 golf fees set: resident season $500 early, $570 regular — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0407 set 2026 fees for the Coakley-Russo Memorial Golf Course: resident/VA affiliate full season $500 early or $570 regular, non-resident $645 or $745, first-member initiation $300. Adopted 5-0.

    The early-payment deadline was Feb. 28, 2026. The fees were recommended by the Director of Parks & Recreation and the Golf Advisory Committee.

    Meeting record Township Committee — November 25, 2025

  5. Open space and environment Resolved

    MS4 stormwater mapping award to Aqualis rescinded — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0398 rescinded the July 29, 2025 award for the NJDEP MS4 Mapping and Watershed Inventory Report because the proposal "will not cover all work needed to comply with NJDEP requirements and Aqualis cannot complete the project at the cost awarded." Adopted 5-0.

    The same night the Committee accepted two wetlands conservation easements (Ords. #2588 and #2589) with no public comment. The mapping was re-awarded to Boswell, Inc. on April 14, 2026.

    Meeting record Township Committee — November 11, 2025

  6. Land use and development Resolved Key moment

    Committee votes 3-2 for a redevelopment study of the former Lord Stirling School — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0395 asks the Planning Board to investigate whether 99 Lord Stirling Road and 25 Sherwood Drive (Block 3101, Lots 2 and 3) are an area in need of redevelopment, as a non-condemnation area. Aye McNally, Tancredi, Fields; nay Asay, Duarte McCarthy.

    A non-condemnation designation would allow the township’s redevelopment powers other than eminent domain. Two residents spoke on the resolution at public comment. The minutes record no statement of reasons from members.

    Meeting record Township Committee — November 11, 2025

  7. Roads and utilities Active

    Eight residents speak on Allen Road at the Township Committee — link to this entry

    Eight of the ten public-comment speakers "commented on the Allen Rd incident." Residents returned to the subject on Nov. 25 (4), Dec. 9 (2) and Jan. 13, 2026 (3): 17 entries by 12 residents in all.

    The minutes record only the subject of each comment; what speakers asked for is on the meeting video. Patch reported on Nov. 7 that a resident’s online petition on Allen Road traffic and safety had close to 1,000 signatures.

    Meeting record Township Committee — November 11, 2025

  8. Roads and utilities Pending Key moment

    Resident struck in an Allen Road crosswalk; she later died — link to this entry

    A Basking Ridge resident crossing Allen Road (CR 652) in a marked crosswalk was struck by a vehicle, Patch reported, citing authorities; she died 14 days later, according to a tort claim notice Patch described on Jan. 21, 2026. The township said a county engineering review would follow the police investigation.

    The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office investigated; Patch reported on Nov. 7 that no charges or summonses had been issued. The township’s statement, as Patch quoted it, said it had heard from many residents about Allen Road, was in contact with Somerset County and the County Engineering Department, and that “an engineering review will commence upon the conclusion of the still ongoing police investigation.” Allen Road is a county road.

  9. Roads and utilities Resolved

    Lake Road path and repaving awarded to DLS Contracting for $1,410,317.80 — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0375 awarded the Lake Road Improvements to DLS Contracting Inc., lowest of three bidders, paid from a $269,768 NJDOT Municipal Aid grant and $1,140,549.80 from Capital Ordinance #2556. Adopted 3-0 (Asay, Fields absent).

    The other bids were Top Line Construction Corp., $1,534,266.38, and Portofino Builders LLC, $1,738,301.50. The project replaces and extends the north-side path from South Finley Avenue to Mt. Airy Road, rebuilds retaining walls and ramps, adds curbing, and repaves all of Lake Road.

  10. Land use and development Pending

    Owner of the former Lord Stirling School asks the Committee to consider the vacant property — link to this entry

    Attorney Michael Silbert, for Lord Stirling Property LLC (John Rocker), and Mr. Rocker spoke at public comment about the vacant former school at 99 Lord Stirling Road and the owner's plans for it; five other speakers supported improving the property.

    The minutes say Mr. Silbert spoke “to bring awareness to this vacant property and the visions his client has for the property.” A Riverside Drive resident asked to see more specific plans.

  11. Affordable housing Resolved

    Planning Board adopts the 2025 Housing Plan Element and Fair Share Plan — link to this entry

    The plan counts 209.5 credits toward the 198-unit obligation, from Ridge Oak IV, Westgate Village, an Our House group home and surplus credits. The Committee endorsed it on May 27, 2025 (Res. #2025-0233).

    The court order records the plan as filed with the court on May 22, 2025.

  12. Affordable housing Resolved

    Committee adopts the Ridge Oak IV and Westgate Village housing zones, 4-1 — link to this entry

    Ord. #2573 created the SH-4 Senior Housing Zone for 29 units at 95 Manchester Drive and Ord. #2575 the MX-1 Westgate Village zone for up to 574 family rentals, 115 affordable. Each passed 4-1, Asay voting no, after the Planning Board found both not consistent with the Master Plan.

    A protest petition on #2573 meant it needed four votes. Res. #2025-0213 (4-1) gave the Committee’s reasons. The same night the Committee committed up to $200,000 in trust funds to an Our House group home (5-0).

  13. Land use and development In court

    Signature Acquisitions sues the Zoning Board over the 150 Allen Road denial — link to this entry

    Patch reported that the applicant withdrew its reconsideration request on March 11, 2025, ahead of a March 13 special meeting, and filed an action in lieu of prerogative writs on March 27 (SOM-L-000481-25).

    The Zoning Board’s agendas identify the case as Signature Acquisitions, LLC vs. Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of Bernards, Dkt# SOM L 000481-25.

  14. Affordable housing Resolved Key moment

    Committee approves a mediation agreement setting the Fourth Round obligation at 198, 3-2 — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0195 approved the mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing Center, which had asked for 225. Aye McNally, Tancredi, Fields; nay Asay, Duarte McCarthy. The court set 24 and 198 on April 8, 2025.

    The minutes list 26 public speakers that night on affordable housing, the Ridge Oak and Westgate sites and the Highlands. They record no statements of reasons on the vote.

  15. Affordable housing Resolved

    Committee commits to 24 rehabilitation units and seeks a Fourth Round obligation of 171 — link to this entry

    Res. #2025-0107 accepted the state's present need of 24 and sought to lower its prospective-need estimate from 218 to 171, based on the township planner's land-capacity review, and authorized the court filing. It reserved the right to adjust its position under the Highlands Act.

    The township filed its declaratory-judgment action, SOM-L-157-25, the next day.

2024 2 entries

  1. Land use and development Pending

    Signature Acquisitions asks the Zoning Board to reconsider a revised 150 Allen Road plan — link to this entry

    Before the denial was memorialized, the applicant's attorneys asked the Board to reconsider a revised plan that would reduce the floor-area ratio to 14.99%, within the 15% limit; the driveway use variances would remain and some bulk variances would be reduced or dropped.

    Revised plans followed on Jan. 7, 2025, with a letter dated Jan. 8, 2025.

  2. Land use and development Resolved Key moment

    Zoning Board denies the 150 Allen Road manufacturing plan, 6-0 — link to this entry

    After 18 hearing dates, the Board denied Signature Acquisitions' application (ZB22-028) for two light-manufacturing and office buildings totaling 244,128 sq ft. Aye to deny: Genirs, Tancredi, Cambria, Kraus, Helverson, Herrera. The denial was memorialized Feb. 5, 2025.

    The resolution relies on the objectors’ planner’s testimony on the negative criteria and finds any hardship self-created. It refers to “more than 70 objecting members of the public.”