Details of the new ordinances and other happenings from the latest council meeting
At its Sept. 24 meeting, council introduced two ordinances that go hand-in-hand. One would affect temporary signage, while the other would alter the fee for temporary signs.
Council voted to adopt the two ordinances at the latest meeting.
Under the new ordinance, temporary signs, no larger than 30 square feet on each side announcing a “grand opening,” “under new management,” or “going out of business,” shall only be permitted for 15 days; the applicant has the right to request one 15-day extension.
Banners are subject to the following regulations — a permit allows a banner to be displayed for a period of 60 days starting from the date the permit was issued, banners shall not exceed 30 square feet, only one banner per business is permitted to be displayed during any one time period and an applicant may secure a maximum of three permits per calendar year.
The second ordinance changes the temporary signs and banner fee from $35 to $50.
Council additionally passed seven resolutions, including a green communities grant application that matches funds from the state Community Forestry Program, approving a Food Truck and Music festival at Washington Lake Park to take place on Oct. 20 at Washington Lake Park and approving tax refunds for overpayments due to Homestead or Disabled Veteran benefits.
In other news:
- The council couldn’t approve regular minutes for the Sept. 24 meeting because there wasn’t a quorum. It was tabled until the next meeting.
- Council President Joe Perry briefly discussed the second annual Food Truck Festival at Washington Lake Park.
“Oct. 20, we will have the second annual Food Truck Festival at Washington Lake Park. It was a good time last year, come out and enjoy the day.”
The Food Truck Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.. More than 20 food trucks will be in attendance and four bands will play throughout the day. Admission to the event is $5 but kids under 10 are free. Tickets can be purchased at justjerseyfresh.com or at the event.
- Mayor Joann Gattinelli discussed some of the intricacies of the Free Washington Township One App.
“I just wanted to make sure everyone is aware of it,” she said. “There is helpful information in there, events. You can report dangers in the township like potholes, trash, fallen street signs, debris, the report goes right to public works. Residents can also receive coupons for Shop Washington Township merchants.”
- The next council meeting will be on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. at the municipal building.
