JANUARY 31, 2008

MINUTES OF THE WORKSHOP MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WANTAGE, HELD AT THE WANTAGE TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 888 STATE HIGHWAY 23, WANTAGE, N.J. ON THE DATE OF JANUARY 31, 2008

Mayor Parker Space called the workshop meeting to order, and requested the Clerk to call the roll. Upon roll call, the following members of the governing body were present: Mayor Space, Committee members DeBoer, Nuss

The following members were absent: None

Mayor Space stated, “This meeting is being held in compliance with the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Act, Public Laws 1975, Chapter 231. It has been properly noticed and posted to the public, and certified by the Clerk."

Mayor Space led the assembly in the Salute to the Flag.

Mr. Doherty gave an overview of the amended draft of the 2008 Municipal Budget. Mr. Doherty explained the recent changes to the salary ordinance which included three employees who would deviate from the straight 4% across the board increase and what line item would be decreased to cover these changes. The Committee agreed with these changes.

Mrs. Nuss questioned the Merit increase process. Mr. Doherty explained that in private industry employees are given a bonus at the end of each year in these circumstances. In municipal government, you cannot pay salaries above the salary ordinance in affect for that year, therefore, merit increases are generally given in the next budget year.

Mr. Doherty asked the Committee to review the budget and let him know if there are any more questions or comments. Mr. Doherty further explained that until final revenue numbers which are subject to state regulations have been received, the anticipated local tax increase remains at 4.5 cents.

Mr. Doherty asked the Committee to see his correspondence regarding the cap rate ordinance which will be considered for adoption this evening after the public hearing. Mr. Doherty explained the history and application of the CAP Ordinance in the State of New Jersey.

Mayor Space opened the meeting to the public at this time, for any questions or comments involving the good and welfare of the community.

Mr. William Gettler voiced inquired where the tax revenue from over $21 million in “growth money” was reflected in the budget. Mr. Doherty explained that the amount of taxes collected from added assessments is included in the surplus figure, and his comments intended to reflect that there has been a reduction in anticipated revenues for 2008 because of a decline in actual revenues collected in 2007, such as construction fees. Mr. Doherty informed Mr. Gettler that he would address the question of “growth money” after review with the Assessor and Collector.

As there was no one else from the public who wished to come forward, Mayor Space closed the meeting to the public and returned to the regular order of business.

There being no other items for consideration of the governing body at this time, Mr. DeBoer moved to adjourn the workshop session. Mrs. Nuss seconded the motion. Upon roll call, Ayes: DeBoer, Nuss, Space Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None

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James R. Doherty, Administrator Clerk