This Round Up includes a belated account of the past couple of weeks and the summary of this week. There is much going on!
Saddle River
Deer Cull Where to begin? The cull started with amazing chaos and confusion for residents. Surprising as a town of Saddle River’s reputation would imply some professionalism and thoroughness. But no. The cull started with residents not knowing where, when and other relevant information – and best information was the time for the hunt was sunrise to sunset, or thereabouts. Residents were given the opportunity to opt in or opt out. Those who had neighboring properties allowing hunting were given a cursory note that it was happening somewhere near them, forcing them to call the town hall multiple times to discover exactly where it might be going on. Many opposing the cull placed signs on their properties stating so. Unfortunately, signs were removed by the driver of a black escalade.
On October 6, 2018 the cull was temporarily halted by a judge pending a hearing on October 9 on the grounds that United Bow Hunters of NJ had failed to submit a roster of hunters to the police department, as required by their contract with the town, allowing the police to do background checks. As of October 10, 2018 the hunt is still on hold as the judge reviews all information.
Despite this the Saddle River website makes no mention of the hunt being on hold, and it is unclear whether residents actually received any formal notification from the town. Hopefully the town did inform the United Bow Hunters of NJ, but given the clear lack of forethought and planning in this bucolic town, don’t be too sure.
Safety concerns still are a major issue. Parents whose children play in the parks have been given no information regarding the hunt and whether the children are safe. Or the children and athletes from surrounding towns who play in the fields in the town. It is unclear whether this issue has even been addressed. Clearly the safety of its youngest residents is of less concern than the hunt. Shameful.
Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery borders Saddle River and their back property is in Saddle River. They are allowing the hunt to occur on the property (as the deer eat their stock). This is of some concern as during October they offer hayrides around the property. The public should be aware of this as no doubt Rohslers won’t be disclosing this fact to them.
Mahwah
Mayoral Recall Mahwah continues to be busy preparing for their local elections (make sure you are registered) with many events. John Roth held a fundraiser on Wednesday and there are several more events planned.
Toll Brothers Mahwah Environmental Commission met on Wednesday October 10 and soil on the Toll Brothers site was on the agenda – no details yet.
Legal Following the recent settlement and the biased and slanted coverage in the media residents have felt bruised, yet defiant, in the face of the less than truthful representation of their town – ‘this isn’t my Mahwah’. In response Frank Pallotta (former mayoral candidate) penned a ‘love letter’ about the town that reinforced what others might have needed to hear and showed his clear pride and affection for the place he and so many others call home.
Upper Saddle River
Mayor & Council At the most recent meeting (October 4, 2018) only 3 council members plus mayor were present, the issue of smart meters was once again discussed. 2 residents addressed the issue and were told smart meters were ‘not our jurisdiction’. Additional questions were asked regarding the lack of replies from both mayor and council to several emails that had been sent – including a mailing with the names of people who were opting out of the smart meter program. The mayor and council stated they didn’t receive them (?). Strange. Additional discussions were curtailed with the mayor adjourning while a resident was still speaking.
It is worth noting that this meeting, along with most others was poorly attended by residents. Unless awards are being presented barely a handful of people turn up. Which raises the question why? Possibly the less than healthy exchange between elected officials and residents is intimidating. Or it could be general apathy. Considering that Mahwah has twice as many meetings a month, often lasting until midnight, and Upper Saddle River can barely last an hour this might imply residents are happy with the recent development regarding Toll Brothers, the religious accommodations and the legal fees amassed from them and other issues. Or is there something else? Thoughts?
Octoberfest Despite the poor weather a fun afternoon was had by residents and friends who gave support to the event. In its 2nd year it had a range of actives and vendors and provided an opportunity for residents to share community spirit and have fun.