Haddonfield commissioners unanimously approved three ordinances on first reading on Tuesday, Feb. 24. The ordinances would increase the amount needed for the library improvements, change the yield signs to stop signs at Redman Avenue and Barberry Lane, and amend the borough code to create a new chapter for permits for commercial filming.
The first ordinance is a bond ordinance for library improvements. The board had to go out to bid twice for library improvements, however, each time the borough’s estimation on costs were too low. This ordinance calls for supplemental appropriation, or an increase, of $400,000 for the improvements and will authorize the issuance of $380,000 in bonds or notes to cover part of the cost. This increases the estimated cost of the improvements from $1.8 million to $2.2 million.
“We have had to increase the amount necessary for the improvements that are going to be done at the library because we have twice gone out to bid and twice the bids have been over the amount that we guessed or budgeted, so in order to increase that capital budget, we will be furthering the issuance of $380,000 in bonds or notes in order to finance this,” Mayor Jeff Kasko said.
The second ordinance calls for the replacement of yield signs at the intersection of Redman Avenue and Barberry Lane to stop signs. This will help control the speeds in that area by slowing the traffic and making for a safer commute for those who are going to Elizabeth Haddon Elementary School, officials said.
“We are going to replace the yield signs with stop signs because we want to slow down the traffic in that area because that is where kids and families are going to and from Elizabeth Haddon School,” Commissioner Neal Rochford said.
The final ordinance would amend the borough code to create a new chapter, entitled “Permit for Commercial Filming,” that will allow the borough to enforce and collect a permit and fee for commercial filming. Those who wish to film for commercial or educational purposes intended for viewing on video receivers, television or in theaters and filming on public land will need a permit. They must get the permit three days prior to filming and state where they will be filming. The cost is $100 for the first three days and $50 per day after.
The public meeting and second reading of these ordinances is scheduled for the next commissioner’s meeting on Tuesday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Borough Hall.
