Greenwood Lake Commission

December 30, 2014

November Meeting Minutes 2014

Greenwood Lake Commission

December 30, 2014

Greenwood Lake Commission 11.25.2014 35 Chestnut Ave Village of Greenwood Lake, NY 10925

Salute to the American Flag

Paul Zarrillo led the Salute to the Flag.

Roll Call

The meeting was called to order at 7:08pm. Paul Zarrillo, Paul Sullivan, Clint Smith, Eric Hastings, Floyd DeAngelo, and Bill Olsen were present. George Vurno and Ed Krull, were absent. Dan Bello attended as a representative for the NJDEP.

Paul Sullivan made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, Bill Olsen seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

This meeting opened with a brief video of a successful removal of a floating island and several stumps that took place on Greenwood lake, which was followed by a detailed presentation of a study in the north arms on the aquatic plant species within the lake. The presentation was conducted by Chris Doyle who represents Allied Biological, and was funded by the Greenwood Lake Commission, Prism, and the Village of Greenwood Lake. There were 28 species of aquatic weeds found in the west and east arms of the lake; a detailed report can be found on our website at GWLC.org.

Reports

Eric Hastings opened with the Treasurer's report. There has been concern over a change in protocol for the Morohan Grant, which expires Dec. 31st of this year. Eric Hastings was happy to report that the necessary paperwork for the Commission had been filed, and all outstanding invoices for the project in the NY side of the lake had been sent to Albany. Copies of the invoices were also sent to Mayor Dwyer of the Village of Greenwood Lake. Eric Hastings commented that the stone wall near the mouth of Belcher's Creek collects sediment and prevents it from entering the lake, and he wanted to ensure the wall would remain in the creek amidst any future maintenance. Eric Hastings also reported that the Commission's Directors and Officers insurance had expired from a previous insurance company, but York-Jersey Underwriters of West Milford is currently covering the Commission.

Clint Smith reported that the dumping of materials from stores in the area is still an open issue. There has been a number of wood pallets, shopping carts, and barrels which have been removed and continue to be found. Clint Smith plans on reaching out to the nearby stores to find a solution.

Paul Sullivan reported that he is continuing to work on obtaining grants for the Commission, and continues to work with Freeholder Terry Duffy of Passaic County and Ed Farmer on this matter. He also plans on asking Passaic County for funds to continue to pay for administrative costs and for future herbicide programs on Greenwood Lake. Paul Sullivan also suggested the Commission's New York representatives ask Orange County for additional funds, but believes that they would be less likely to assist due to a budget deficit. Eric Hastings commented that Orange County and the states of New York and New Jersey have not been as helpful in funding the Commission as Passaic County A representative from the Village of Greenwood Lake reported that Mayor Jesse Dwyer plans on fitting herbicide treatments into the annual town budget.

Paul Zarrillo reported that he met with Councilwoman Vivienne Erk of West Milford. The Councilwoman plans on presenting a resolution supporting funding for the Commission. Paul Zarrillo also reported that after various correspondence, the town no longer plans on removing the ordinance requiring residents and businesses to regularly check and maintain septic systems; but the Commission still has concerns over enforcement and follow up procedures of the ordinance. Paul Zarrillo gave the West Milford Administrator's Office the contacts to Jefferson Township and The Village of Greenwood Lake for assistance regarding the procedures for enforcing the ordinance. Paul Zarrillo reported that the DMV requested the Commission acquire a Corp Code for the purpose of finalizing the transfer of the weed harvesters to the Township of West Milford. Paul Zarrillo also reported to the Commission that he attended a Highlands Council Conference and made the request for a town hall meeting in West Milford. The Highlands Council suggested the request go through the West Milford Town Council.

Floyd DeAngelo reported that he plans on meeting New York elected officials, along with George Vurno and Barry Cheney who is a Legislator for Orange County, NY about securing grants for the Commission, and also to follow up with the need for a DEC representative about the Commission.

Bill Olsen was following up with Paul Zarrillo on the status of continuing the 501c3 from the old Watershed Management District. Paul Zarrillo contacted Legal Zoom and the IRS to confirm that the Watershed Management District is still registered as a 501c3.

The Commission has decided to continue to meet on the 4th Wednesday of every month, alternating each meeting between the Town Hall in West Milford and the Senior Center in the Village of Greenwood Lake. The months on November and December the Commission plans on meeting the 3rd Wednesday in order to avoid conflicts with the holidays. Notices are being sent to each Township as well as the local newspapers.

During the holidays the Commission will review the founding legislation, by-laws, and procedures and create committees within the Commission, which will be given specific tasks to handle. An in depth discussion is planned for the first meeting in 2015.

Public Input

Dan Bello of the DEP expressed the conerns of his superiors over the lack of compliance on part of the DEC for not appointing a voting member to the Commission, as per the founding legislation. Dan Bello also indicated that he has yet to be formally appointed by the DEP as a voting member.

Several attendants in the crowd commented that there is a possibility of a casino opening in the area of Greenwood Lake, and encourages the Commission to be in contact with the casino regarding plans they have for usage of Greenwood Lake, and any potential funding they could afford the Commission.

Paul Sullivan made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Bill Olsen seconded. The meeting adjourned at 9:38pm. Our next meeting will be January 28th at 7pm, in West Milford Town Hall, located at 1480 Union Valley Road. The December meeting for the Commission was canceled due to conflicts with the holidays. If you needed to contact us you may do so you by visiting our website GWLC.org, emailing us at info@GWLC.org, or calling our office at 973-506-7800.

Greenwood Lake Commission

November 10, 2014

October 2014 Meeting Minutes

Greenwood Lake Commission

November 10, 2014

Greenwood Lake Commission 10.22.2014 1480 Union Valley Rd. West Milford, NJ 07480

Salute to the American Flag

Paul Zarrillo led the Salute to the Flag.

Roll Call

The meeting was called to order at 7:25pm. Paul Zarrillo, Paul Sullivan, Clint Smith, Eric Hastings, and Bill Olsen were present. George Vurno, Ed Krull, and Floyd DeAngelo were absent. Dan Bello attended as a representative for the NJDEP.

Paul Sullivan made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, Paul Zarrillo seconded. Bill Olsen was unable to attend the last meeting, and abstained. The rest of the Commission voted to pass the minutes.

Reports

Eric Hastings delivered the treasurers report. The total sum of funds in the Commission's bank accounts totals approximately 16,700.34 dollars in the New Jersey bank and 14,448.76 in the New York bank. The New York bank account however is earmarked for reports and projects. An accountant has been hired to go back and manage the financial records from the Commission, and by next meeting Paul Zarrillo reported that the Commission would have updated all past records.

There were three bills given to the Commission for utility payments which included water, heat, and electricity. The bills totaled 106.77 dollars. Bill Olsen made a motion to pay the bills, Paul Zarrillo seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Paul Zarrillo gave an update on the dispute between the landlord of the office located on Greenwood Turnpike over payment for the repairs to a water heater which was damaged as a result of freezing pipes. The Commission contends that the heater did not work prior to the damage and feels that the landlord is responsible for the cost of the repairs. Paul Sullivan made a motion to pay the bill, Eric Hastings seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Eric Hastings reported that the protocol for the Morohan grant has changed, this grant was specifically being used to fund the project in the NY section of the lake by HydroQual. The change has resulted in a delay in the payment to HydroQual, as the Commission needs to reapply for the grant. The qualification status for Greenwood Lake has not changed, however the necessary paperwork must be processed before the funds from the grant can be given to the Commission.

Paul Sullivan reported on talks with Ed Farmer about grants the Commission would be able to attain. Specifically in regards to monitoring sediment in Belcher's Creek and the status of invasive species of weeds in the lake. Clint Smith commented that a possible avenue for funds could be found by opening talks with the Open Space Committee in Passaic County. The Commission is also looking into the possibility and effectiveness of man made floating islands which contain plant life, which would absorb excess phosphorus in the lake. Eric Hastings also brought up the possibility of a wall which could be placed in Belcher's creek that would allow water and boats to pass through, while collected excess sediment.

Paul Zarrillo also reported that floating island and stumps by Fox island and Latitude 41 and Sportsman Marina is up and presenting a hazard to safety. The Commission is requesting the Marine State Police officially declare it a hazard and assist the Commission in there removal.

Paul Zarrillo reported that the Commission is going to turn on heat in the office now that the system is fixed on Nov. 1st, and that a 388 dollar security deposit was required. Paul Zarrillo also reported on the utilities cost for the Commission, which he estimated would total approximately $300 dollars per month.

Paul Zarrillo discussed with the officials from the Lake Hopatcong Foundation to discuss the possibility of the GWLC being declared a 501(c)3 in order to raise funds through charitable donations, and well as events such as raffles and other types of fundraising, they plan to meet soon for further discussion.

Paul Zarrillo gave an update on the memorandum of understanding with the Township of West Milford about transferring the ownership of the weed harvesters to the town. The town has requested documentation from Motor Vehicle, which includes the title and bill of sales. Paul Zarrillo has been working the Motor Vehicle to receive the necessary documentation and hopes to have it within the next week.

A PowerPoint Presentation from Allied Biological is scheduled for the next meeting of the Commission, however concerns have arisen over the amount of space required to do so. Bill Olsen will be coordinating with Jesse Dwyer about moving the meeting location to a more suitable location.

Dan Bello reported that the water levels in the lake are low due to lack of rain, and a test of the dam which resulted in the dam remaining open longer than expected. Dan Bello also reported that the DEP is in possession of a report by HydroQual about dredging the entire lake. Clint Smith brought up that in 2013, 67 wood pallets, 55 ten gallon drums, and 10 shopping cards were removed from the lake last year. Clint Smith plans on talking with the nearby stores to ensure they do not inadvertently dump more materials into the lake. Eric Hastings asked Dan Bello if the DEP would allow homeowners to dredge 30 yards out from the property line into the lake, as opposed to the current maximum of 10 yards.

The chemicals used the lake to control the weeds this year proved effective, but other options are still being explored. One option is the use of sonar herbicides, which would be more effective but more restrictive as well.

The Commission brought up concerns again about the possibility of the town lifting a septic pump out ordinance, and has brought these concerns to Princeton Hydro, the company that has implemented various grants and studies for the commission and West Milford. The Commission plans to invite representatives from Princeton Hydro to a meeting with the town council to discuss the matter further.

Paul Zarrillo reported on the need for the Commission to form committees in order to better organize the commission.

The meetings in the next two months fall on or near major holidays so as per the advise of the public the November meeting will be held on Tuesday November 25th and preceded by a power point presentation from Allied Biological regarding the Prism/ Aquatic Weed study, and the December meeting will be canceled due to its typical low turnout.

Paul Sullivan made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Eric Hastings seconded. The meeting adjourned at 8:54pm. Our next meeting will be November 25th at 7pm, in the Elks Lodge, located at 35 Chestnut Street in the Village of Greenwood Lake. If you needed to contact us you may do so you by visiting our website GWLC.org, emailing us at info@GWLC.org, or calling our office at 973-506-7800.

Greenwood Lake Commission

October 3, 2014

Sept 24th Meeting Minutes

Greenwood Lake Commission

October 3, 2014

Greenwood Lake Commission 9.24.2014 132 Windermere Ave Greenwood Lake, NY 10925 - Minutes -

Salute to the American Flag

George Vurno led the Salute to the Flag.

Roll Call

The meeting was called to order at 7:10pm. Paul Zarrillo, Paul Sullivan, Clint Smith, Eric Hastings, George Vurno, Floyd De Angelo, and Daniel Bello were present. Bill Olsen and Ed Krull were absent.

Guests of note that attended this meeting included Lou Signorino, West Milford Councilman, Jesse Dwyer Mayor of the Village of Greenwood Lake, and Barry Cheney, Legislator from Orange County.

Reports

Eric Hastings delivered the treasurers report. The total sum of funds in the Commission's bank accounts totals approximately 17,000 dollars in the New Jersey bank and 15,000 in the New York bank. The $15,000 however is earmarked for reports and projects. An accountant is being hired to go back and manage the financial records from the Commission.

Paul Zarrillo reported on the dispute between the landlord of the office located on Greenwood Turnpike over payment for the repairs to a water heater which was damaged as a result of freezing pipes. The Commission contends that the heater did not work prior to the damage and feels that the landlord is responsible for the cost of the repairs. The Commission is continuing to work with the landlord to resolve the matter.

Paul Zarrillo also reported on his concern over the repeal of the West Milford Septic Pump Out Ordinance mandating that residents and businesses empty and inspect there system every three years. Mayor Dwyer of Greenwood Lake was in attendance and commented that in the Village of Greenwood Lake there are districts near water sources where a similar ordinance is enforced. Lou Signorino commented that legal counsel from West Milford advised that creating districtd would be prohibited, but will check again to verify. Eric Hastings also shared his concerns over the TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) of phosphorus, which he says the lake exceeds but no recent report can verify the exact amount.

Paul Zarrillo reported on the meeting between the Commission and Senator Pennachio. The Commission asked about receiving permanent funding from the State, which is not possible at this time according to the Senator. Senator Pennachio advised the Commission to explore the possibility of a foundation similar to the Lake Hopatcong Foundation.

Paul Zarrillo reported that the Commission is waiting for a report from HydroQual for hydro raking. A representative from HydroQual also plans on presenting a report on the dredging in the north arms on Oct 29th.

Paul Zarrillo stated that the zoning commission has not been notifying the commission about new homes being built in the area, also the OEM and DEP neglected to invite us to a conference of lakes in West Milford promoting dam safety, which was an oversight.

Paul Zarrillo announced that he found a vendo which can make 100 business cards and 500 stationary letter heads for $7 and $150 respectivly.

Clint Smith reported on the transfer of ownership of the weed harvesters to the Township of West Milford. Original bills of sale could not be located, however Lou Signorino, councilman from West Milford who was in attendance reported that the town is not concerned and would be able to give the machines new serial numbers. A final letter will be sent to the Township of West Milford to complete the transfer.

Daniel Bello has been selected by the NJDEP to replace Kerry Pflugh on the Commission but requires a finalization letter before he can become a voting member. The Commission asked Daniel to follow up with the NJDEP about the possibility of weekend police patrols and the removal of several floating islands. Daniel Bello stated that if we could confirm that the floating islands originated from the NJ side of the lake, then the DEP would have jurisdiction to assist.

Public Input

Mayor Jesse Dwyer of The Village of Greenwood Lake was in attendance and complimented the work the Commission has done efforts to control the weeds through herbicides, commenting that long time residents and tourists of the lake have noticed a vast imporvment as well. Paul Zarrillo asked for the Mayor to send a letter to the Commission reiterating his comments at the meeting. Goerge Vurno also thanked the mayor for his cooperation and help. The Mayor also asked about the process of being compensated for the hydro raking done in the NY side of the lake. The Commission stated that the Village would be reimbursed $124,000 by monies the Commission has that is being help in Albany from a previous grant.

The meetings in the next two months fall on or near major holidays so as per the advise of the public the November meeting will be held on Tuesday November 25th and the December meeting will be cancelled due to its typical low turnout.

Floyd DeAngelo made a motion to close the meeting, Eric Hastings seconded. Meeting adjourned at 8:59 pm. Our next meeting will be October 22nd at 7pm, in the Township of West Milford. If you needed to contact us you may do so you by visiting our website GWLC.org, emailing us at info@GWLC.org, or calling our office at 973-506-7800.

Greenwood Lake Commission

October 3, 2014

Aug 27th Meeting Minutes - Final

Greenwood Lake Commission

October 3, 2014

Greenwood Lake Commission 8.27.2014 1480 Union Valley Rd West Milford, NJ 07480 - Minutes -

Salute to the American Flag

Paul Zarrillo led the Salute to the Flag.

Roll Call

Meeting was called to order at 7:16pm. Paul Zarrillo, Clint Smith, Eric Hastings, Ed Krull, Floyd De Angelo, and George Vurno were all present. Paul Sullivan, Bill Olsen, and Kerry Pflugh were absent.

Public Notice Statement

Paul Zarrillo stated that in accordance with Pubic Laws in New York and New Jersey, adequate notice of the meeting time and location was sent to the AIM, West Milford Messenger, Warwick Valley Dispatch and Times, the Herald, and the Record.

Correspondence

At this time Paul Zarrillo read aloud several letters sent by the Commission. A letter was sent to Anthony DeNova, Administrator for Passaic County thanking him and Freeholder Terry Duffy of Passaic County for there assistance in securing $10,000 for administrative costs and to purchase insurance for the Commission.

A letter was sent to the Mayor and Council of West Milford expressing the Commission's opposition of a proposal by the Township which would eliminate a town-wide ordinance mandating septic pump outs. The Commission stated in this letter their concern about the effect of phosphorus levels, which would increase as a result of this ordinance being lifted. Eric Hastings commented that algae blooms in Ohio which affected the drinking water of over half a million people was attributed to an increase in phosphorus levels in Lake Erie. The Commission is waiting for a report from Princeton Hydro, detailing the effect that lifting this ordinance would have.

A response to an email sent by the West Milford Township Clerk, and a copy sent to Mayor Bieri and the Council of West Milford in regards to the transfer of ownership of the weed harvester equipment. The Township of West Milford is requesting motor vehicle documents before the transfer of ownership; Paul Zarrillo stated at the meeting and in emails to the Township of West Milford that the weed harvesters are not required to have the requested documentation and that the town can proceed with the transfer. Paul Zarrillo forwarded certificates of origin for the newest weed harvester equipment. Andre Abdul from the West Milford Environmental Commission who was in attendance requested a copy of this letter.

A letter was sent to Bob Martin the Commissioner for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) expressing the frustration of the Commission for the lack of support and compliance the DEP has given for administrative assistance and funding, which the Commission is entitled to receive according to the founding legislation.

At this time West Milford Councilman Lou Signorino entered the room. Paul Zarrillo asked the Councilman to comment on the Council's position on the septic pump out ordinance. Lou Signorino said the Council had discussed it briefly at the last meeting but did not go into detail. Eric Hastings commented that removing the ordinance would disqualify the town from receiving 319 and 604B grants and Paul Zarrillo read a draft of a report from Princetion Hyrdo stating that one pound of phosphorus can result in 1100 pounds of algae bio mass. Lou Signorino followed up by stating that the law is difficult to enforce and the Health Department, which would be in charge of enforcing the ordinance is understaffed. He also stated that he was not familiar with the report by Princeton Hyrdro and was skeptical of the effect that removing the ordinance would have. George Vurno commented that the West Milford ordinance is a mirror of Jefferson Township's and that we should reach out for recommendations on how to enforce the ordinance. George Vurno also commented that having the law on the books would deter people from violating it. Paul Zarrillo said that when a septic tank is pumped a report from the company is sent to the town, which could be used to aid the enforcement of the ordinance. He also mentioned that Mayor Dwyer of the Village of Greenwood Lake offered to lend the Commission software and training in how to enforce our septic pump out ordinance better. Clint Smith recommended to Lou Signorino an independent review be conducted on the effect of phosphorus on Greenwood Lake. Lou Signorino invited the Commission to the next Town Council meeting to discuss the matter further. Paul Zarillo also suggested a meeting with the West Milford Town Council, the Commission, and Princeton Hydro.

Reports

Eric Hastings delivered the Treasurer's Report. The total sum of funds in the Commission's bank accounts totaled $23,183.76. The Commission also opened a bank account at Lakeland Bank in New Jersey. The Commission originally had only one bank account at Sterlings Bank in New York, but due to restrictions on which state the money can be spent, the second account was created to keep the funds separate. Currently 8700 dollars are in the NJ account. Eric Hastings will be asking Orange County in NY and Passaic County in NJ to give more funds to the Commission. Eric Hastings also commented that the removal of water chestnuts in the north arm is doing well. George Vurno commented on the work Eric Hastings has done over the last week personally harvesting and removing weeds and water chestnuts from the lake.

Paul Zarrillo reported that the old farmer's rock wall at the mouth of Belchers Creek had been properly addressed by the Aides to Navigation which is part of the DEP; warning buoys are now present around it. Paul Zarrillo also expressed concern over several floating islands, one by Fox Island and another to the east in particular which he estimates to be 50 feet in length and plans to call the Marine Police to remove them. Paul Zarrillo also reported that he intended to communicate with Lake Hopatcong and ask for advice on removal of water chestnuts. A final report is expected by HydroQual for dredging the east side of the arm. We are also waiting for the final report from Allied Biological in regards to the species of weeds that exist in Greenwood Lake. Paul Zarrillo also confirmed a meeting with Senator Pennacchio on Sept. 16th. Paul Zarrillo also mentioned that the Commission just purchased QuikBooks in order to better maintain its financial records.

Ed Krull reported that the Hydro Raking done in the eastern arm in the state of New York over the last two weeks has been very successful, and water flow has increased as a result. However, the reduction in water level is making it difficult for boats to enter the water at some points on the lake.

Floyd DeAngelo commented that the herbicides have made a noticeable difference in the lake, but the water clarity has been reduced either by the herbicides or the bottom being disturbed by hydro raking.

Presentations Bridget Vanderbos from York-Jersey Underwriters gave a brief presentation on the insurance policies purchased by the Commission. We plan of saving 1500-2000 dollars annually as a result.

Clint Smith made a motion to close the meeting, Ed Krull seconded. Meeting adjourned at 9:00pm. Our next meeting will be September 24th at 7pm, in the Greenwood Lake Senior Center. If you needed to contact us you may do so you by visiting our website GWLC.org, emailing us at info@GWLC.org, or calling our office at 973-506-7800.