WOOLWICH TWP. — Woolwich Township got some bright financial news at their Committee meeting on Aug. 21. Deputy Mayor Frank Rizzi had announced back in May that the town planned to refinance a series of capital improvement bonds that could save Woolwich $60,000 a year. But upon completing the refinancing in August, Rizzi learned that the saving was actually $80,000 annually.
Mayor Alan Schwager had noted in the initial estimates that Woolwich could save $1.2 million over the life of the bonds, but that figure was increased to $1.6 million. Also, combined with bonds Woolwich had already refinanced in 2015, the community would see a saving of $100,000 a year.
Rizzi gave credit to the Finance Committee for a “job well done.”
In his Fire report, Rizzi listed 43 calls to service for July, with 69 percent coming from Woolwich, and 31 percent from Swedesboro. For Parks and Recreation, the deputy mayor said the grand opening for the Farmers Market was Sept. 7, and it would run every Thursday night through October.
For the Environmental Commission, Committeeman Dan Battisti reported that the kayaking event held on Aug. 5 had been successful. He also announced that a Green Team has been assembled, and will meet in September.
Committeeman John Carleton listed the Business Development Advisory Committee networking event for Oct. 15, and the 2017 Christmas parade for Dec.2.
Committeeman Jordan Schlump reported that Streets and Roads had repaired some curbs at Hunters Run. He added that maintenance of community athletic fields by Buildings and Grounds was taking place.
Schwager stated that 37 zoning applications had been issued for July, and there had been three new housing starts. He added that National Night Out with the Woolwich Township Police Department was set for Sept. 20.
In new business, the Committee authorized Public Works to lease or purchase one or two super duty trucks for their department, depending on availability. The vehicles can be acquired through leasing or a state contract.
In ordinances, the Committee tabled a measure that would establish a Parks and Recreation Committee for Woolwich. Solicitor Mark Shoemaker has noted that the Committee is a group of volunteers with no power, but has bylaws. Director of Community Development Matt Blake pointed out that their duties are a lot to ask of a volunteer group.
“They have a lot on their plate,” Blake commented. “They’re just updating the bylaws and reconstituting the group.”
In resolutions, the Committee authorized placing municipal liens on various properties in Woolwich Township. They also adopted a resolution that would purchase radios for the Woolwich Fire Company under a state contract.
by Robert Holt
