As commissioners turn over a new page in 2018, there’s a lot residents have to look forward to and should know.
Last year was an eventful one in Haddonfield. Borough commissioners have whittled down the Bancroft redevelopment plan to 14 amendments, and Neal Rochford was elected as mayor. As commissioners turn over a new page in 2018, there’s a lot residents have to look forward to and should know.
There is light at the end of the tunnel to the 12-year efforts to turn the vacant Bancroft property site in Haddonfield into a usable space. The Bancroft redevelopment plan is expected to be finalized in February, according Borough Administrator Sharon McCullough. A resolution related to Bancroft’s redevelopment should be adopted at the board meeting on Jan. 2.
The borough is optimistic moving forward in regard to the Bancroft redevelopment site. As far as any other development plans, the borough expects that Bancroft will be the only redevelopment plan in Haddonfield’s foreseeable future, according to Rochford.
The 2018 municipal budget will be constructed with careful consideration and feedback from the public. Once the strategic plan is complete and residents have voiced their concerns, the budget will be developed. McCullough said although the borough would normally be “a little further along” in regard to budget development, the borough has “taken a step back” to ensure the budget corresponds with the needs of the community.
The strategic plan is focused on “service-oriented items,” according to McCullough, and once complete, the departments are able to calculate costs for specific services. The budget should be ready to be introduced in March or early April, according to McCullough.
Looking at parks and recreation, Centennial Field is expected to be updated and “regraded” in 2018. Commissioners will address details of Centennial Field in the spring.
Although the borough hasn’t finalized the 2018 capital plan, it is putting roadwork at the forefront, hoping to work on 28 residential roads in 2018. Describing the borough’s plan for roads as a “somewhat aggressive five-year plan,” McCullough said the 17–18 road work plans have added more roads compared to previous years. Of the 28 residential roads, two blocks of Reillywood Avenue will be worked on with the funds collected from state aid.
Taking a step away from road work and redevelopment, 2018 will be filled with activities hosted by the borough and various organizations that will keep residents excited.
“We have a wide variety of civic groups and organizations that really start to pull from all of the things that pull Haddonfield together to make it this quaint, really community felt town. We wouldn’t be who we are without them,” McCullough said.
Helping put on various parades and holiday displays throughout town, the Celebrations Committee plans to continue some of Haddonfeild’s beloved traditions, including but not limited to the Fourth of July parade and Halloween parade and the annual fourth of July fireworks. Running on a small stipend from the borough and donations, the committee relies on residents to donate to make Haddonfield’s events bigger and better for 2018.
“I urge everyone to participate in the Celebrations Committee,” Rochford said.
The auxiliary police is refocusing on the direction it is going in and encouraging residents to gain interest in the auxiliary in 2018. The summer camp piloted in 2017 to teach teens the value of being a police officer was a success and reached full capacity last July. Due to its success, it is expected to continue in 2018 and possibly expand.
Residents can also expect to see a fly-by with two F-16 planes soaring over Kings Highway for the annual Memorial Day parade on May 28. American Legion Post 38 will be coordinating the details of the swoop over, according to Rochford.
The borough also encourages residents to keep an eye out for future events being held at the library, as it will be incorporating some neat things in 2018. The library is working on creating a Makerspace, where residents can come and experience tools, including a 3D printer and new software. The library hopes year-round access can be granted for those looking to utilize the space and 3D printer. The space is projected for completion at the end of January or beginning of February, according to Library Director Eric Zino. The borough encourages residents to check the library’s calendar for new and upcoming events.
As another chapter ends and another one begins for Haddonfield, the commissioners hold high expectations for 2018.
“The commissioners work well together and work hard to get things done,” Rochford said. “It’s been a productive year, we anticipate that we are heading into another productive year in 2018.”
More news about 2018 initiatives will be discussed at the annual Mayor’s Breakfast, hosted by the Haddonfield Lions Club, on Saturday, Jan. 20. The event will begin at 9 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 20 Kings Highway East. Tickets are $7 and will be available at the door.
Those interested in the road work plan can visit www.haddonfieldnj.org/capital_projects/index.php.
