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2010 BCA Board MeetingsLocation: 2 Broad St., 4th Floor Conference Room, 6:30pm
Present: S Corso, R Hathaway, M Kahn, A Lardieri, A Marucci, E Michalski, M Murdoch, M Napolitano, R Rockwell, Councilman R Ruane, M Terenzio The BCA Board business meeting was called to order at 6:37 pm with a quorum. The meeting was located at 622 Bloomfield Avenue. M Terenzio welcomed all and stated the Agenda item Harvest Fest would be discussed first. Harvest Fest Scott Harrison of This Is It! Productions also noted the cost factors, specifically security and clean-up, which was previously covered by the Township. Sponsorships were down primarily due to the shortened opportunity to reach out to Businesses. Parking and Overnight Security was a success; this was the first year the vendors with trailers were permitted to remain on location by Essex County and the Township of Bloomfield. S Harrison further detailed the upgrades including the following elements: S Koperweis confirmed that the budget cutbacks resulted from no Township funding and lack of sponsors; the 2009 Harvest Fest was brought in with less money, however the BCA is not the funding source. Comments: Minutes (attachment): November 24, 2009 Minutes were reviewed, with one comment: Al Lardieri was cited to attend the next scheduled BPA meeting, originally set for January 19, 2010. The meeting was postponed and the new date was January 26, 2010, which presented a conflict with the BCA meeting schedule. Therefore, Al Lardieri was unable to attend the January BPA meeting. 1st motion for approval by M Kahn Financial Report (update): First motion was made by the Board confirming three signors to the checking account as follows: Marion Terenzio, President; Michael Kahn, Vice-President; Mary Murdoch, Secretary. D Sarcone confirmed that there is no cash access via the ATM machine. Parking Authority Report: Redevelopment: M Terenzio requested an update be given to the Board from S Koperweis. President’s Report: M Terenzio advised there will be a February Board Meeting, which will break out into the committees as follows: Executive Director’s Report: S Koperweis advised that the BCA Budget Hearing was scheduled before the Mayor and Council on Monday, February 1, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
New Business D Sarcone noted that the Township has formed a Census Committee (CCC), which is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, January 27, 2010. Doreen has been asked to serve on the committee as both a resident and a representative of the BCA. Anyone who is interested in serving can contact Doreen or Louise Palagano. A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 8:18 pm. Present: R Hathaway, C Heller, A Lardieri, A Marucci, E Michalski, R Rockwell, M Terenzio The BCA Board began discussion at 6:42 pm without a quorum. The meeting was located at 622 Bloomfield Avenue. M Terenzio welcomed all and advised that the BCA meetings are to follow Robert’s Rules of Order; without a quorum, the BCA Board will have a roundtable discussion. Minutes (attachment): January 26, 2009 Minutes were tabled to be voted on during next BCA Board Meeting. Financial Report (attachment): Open Forum: M Terenzio: We need a more active Board; Stuart and Doreen do the work we set for them and they are doing a fine job; however I believe it is more of a concern about us (the Board). The image of BCA has improved; the President of the College has learned first hand of the value this organization brings/can bring to the Township. The discussion concluded at 7:57 p.m. March Present: R Hathaway, C Heller, M Kahn, A Lardieri, R Rockwell, Councilman R Ruane, M Terenzio The BCA Board business meeting was called to order at 8:18 am with a quorum. The meeting was located at 622 Bloomfield Avenue. M Terenzio thanked all for attending and stated she had made an Executive Decision to change the 3/23 BCA Board meeting from a forum to a discussion. The BCA can use this as a chance to partner with the Township to bring us up to date on the Redevelopment, preserve our reputation and express how we are in the same position as our constituents. Redevelopment: S Koperweis advised that he has issued an invite to the key players involved in the Redevelopment sub-committee. The following individuals will attend: NOTE: Fred Carr, Township Administrator will not be attending due to a prior commitment. Discussion: The discussion concluded at 9:16 a.m. It was confirmed that the 03/23 BCA Board Meeting would be held at 622 Bloomfield Avenue, 2nd Floor at 6:30 p.m. Present: M Kahn, A Lardieri, A Marucci, E Michalski, M Napolitano, R Rockwell, Councilman R Ruane, M Terenzio The BCA Board business meeting was called to order at 6:44 pm with a quorum. The meeting was located at 622 Bloomfield Avenue. It was noted that Greg Holway of BMW of Bloomfield has issued his resignation. M Terenzio welcomed all and introduced Mayor McCarthy. Mayor McCarthy acknowledged the additional speakers on behalf of the Township of Bloomfield Redevelopment Sub-committee: Ken DeRoberts and Glenn Dominick, as well as Councilman Robert Ruane, representing the Third Ward, which includes Bloomfield Center’s shopping district. M Terenzio noted the agenda would be re-ordered to address the Redevelopment discussion first. M Terenzio advised the speakers of the following goals of the BCA: G Dominick stated there has been a better relationship with the BCA through Stuart Koperweis. The 8-month suspension of any progress has been caused by having to re-do the study, once the study was challenged. Because it encompassed the entire center as one plan for one location, it halted all activity, even outside of the property(s) in question. With this understanding, the Township of Bloomfield has requested a new study, which will be issued by blocks, therefore not limiting any other projects. The new study is in the final stages. The BPA is taking full title-ship of public lots on Block 228. The funding for the purchase of the Royal Lot can possibly be used for capital improvements. The TIGER Grant was declined, however 6-points Phase I is still going forward. K DeRoberts confirmed that Ed Farmer is restructuring the application for the Fall of 2010 prior to application. S Koperweis advised there was a quick turnaround given when notice was given for the 2009 deadline. Now that we have more time, we will be better prepared. G Dominick noted that NJ Transit and Essex County Improvement Authority are being requested to join the efforts for the parking deck. M Kahn asked how we share information with people who are frustrated and deserve to have updates, without divulging and possibly jeopardizing negotiations. K DeRoberts advised that the progress and focus was going along swimmingly until the study was challenged. G Dominick noted the studies are the foundation; with two block studies being focused on as priorities – Blocks 228 & 243. Glenn also noted that it was a turning point to have Haberman in negotiations with redevelopment initiatives. Mayor McCarthy commended Glenn & Ken on bringing Haberman in as a partner. M Terenzio asked if it is reasonable to establish a timeline. G Dominick clarified that $950,000 was secured for restoration of the Historic Train Station. With the pending Block Studies, there could be a redevelopment agreement for Block 243 shortly after the study is completed, due to preliminary meetings with the property owner. S Koperweis asked what would be the adoption time given pending settlements; Glenn advised if settlement does not go to court, typically, a 90-day period will lapse before the new study(s) take effect. A Marucci stated this is not the original redevelopment; this is a new project. S Koperweis confirmed that there are 2 formal submissions within Block 228; with active friendly negotiations being pursued with both parties. One has moved further and faster than the other. K DeRoberts said all energy will be focused on negotiations, but noted eminent domain remains available via the BPA. S Koperweis asked what the timeline would be if it followed that process; Glenn deferred to the BPA to speak to that matter. K DeRoberts also noted that Block 228 was the furthest along in property preparations and planning, therefore that is where the town began with its revised study. Mayor McCarthy further noted that all efforts are with the intention to avoid litigation. G Dominick advised that Oakes Pond, although not in Bloomfield Center, was another Redevelopment Project within the Township, which is moving forward. M Terenzio asked what the BCA Board can share. Mayor McCarthy advised we can talk about Block 228; S Koperweis noted Block 228 remains a BPA question; the status of the deck and its financing; K DeRoberts noted that funding is being pursued with the least impact to the taxpayers; R Ruane stated that the BPA was bonded with $20 million and there is not enough money left to build a deck; S Koperweis added that land value/cost and cost to build the deck, both need to be calculated for this equation. K DeRoberts also noted the cost is down $20,000 due to materials costing less during this economy, final calculations on spaces will fluctuate with the economy, therefore projections cannot be made until we get closer to that time; A Lardieri asked how many spaces would be built; Mayor McCarthy confirmed 719 spaces are allocated for this deck; K DeRoberts further noted this was all in draft proposals, which need to be finalized; all is conceptual until presented and approved by the Township. Mayor McCarthy stated that properties that are being pursued by the private developers have issued several options within the negotiations such as: an offer of 20% above appraised values; exchanged square footage; immediate land-swap; become a partner. A Lardieri asked how we help keep a momentum going. M Terenzio addressed 6-points capital improvements. S Koperweis referred attendees to view the attached reconfiguration rendering; Mayor McCarthy noted this would be a similar capital improvement as Venner Park. M Terenzio asked if BCA votes, how fast this project will move forward; G Dominick noted it will go out to bid within 4-5 weeks; M Terenzio asked if we will have legal assistance; S Koperweis asked if this project requires a formal bid; G Dominick stated yes. M Terenzio noted the BCA is languishing and continues to take SID Assessment Funds; we should be reaching out to the constituents. Which is best: door-to-door or stakeholder meetings? What do you see as the role for the BCA? G Dominick stated this would be a BCA Project, with the BCA taking the lead and getting credit. There is no doubt that this validates the existence of the BCA. S Koperweis expressed concern about the number of empty storefronts. G Dominick confirmed the Train RFQ needs to be issued; the BCA can take it and run with it; R Ruane stated the BCA took over the Harvest Fest realizing a cost savings – copy that initiative, apply it to these two capital improvements and they will be a guaranteed success, as was the transition of the Harvest Fest. M Terenzio noted that Stuart’s role is recognized by the Board. K Hochman advised that the BPA has been dealing with damages from the winter storms, i.e. meters down, lot damage, etc. M Kahn asked that there be a communication guideline issued to ensure continuity, with target talking points. M Kahn asked that an email be issued identify what we are at liberty to say; and where we can point questions to for constituents – stay tuned, etc. Councilman R Ruane advised he is the third-ward Council liaison; all questions should be issued through him. G Dominick welcomed all to attend the meetings. K DeRoberts noted the relationship with Stuart has strengthened the communication between the Township and the BCA. (* see summary attachment) M Terenzio advised that non-Board members may leave and the BCA Board will continue with pending business, specifically discussing funding $350,000 for the 6-points project. A Lardieri stated this project would require $36,000 annual allocation over 10-year period, as a tax-free bond, which is guaranteed by the Township; will this change our funding source. S Koperweis explained this is an apples-to-oranges comparison; if the re-assessment increases; the redevelopment increases; if the SID dissolves prior to the bond being paid, the governing body will have to discuss how to re-pay the bond. Councilman R Ruane confirmed the Township is underwriting the bond. M Terenzio stated it is time to put our money where our mouths are. A Lardieri further noted that as an owner of a sales organization; it is important to recognize that 6-points is the face of the Center. A motion was made by the Board to commit $350,000 to be paid over 10 years with an $36,000 annual allocation on the Budget. The BCA accepts the partnership with the Township of Bloomfield to oversee the 6-Points redevelopment project not to exceed $1.4 million. NOTE: This motion is subject to Attorney review. Councilman R Ruane advised the BCA should issue a press release with a photo as soon as possible. E Michalski stated the county should be requested to contribute as it is on Bloomfield Avenue – a County Corridor. Councilman R Ruane confirmed he will submit a request to County Executive DiVincenzo and Freeholder Caputo. M Terenzio advised the April meeting will have a discussion on Board participation. M Terenzio thanked Doreen and Stuart for their work on the 2009 Annual Report. Minutes (attachment): January 26, 2010 Minutes were reviewed 1st motion for approval by M Kahn February 23, 2010 Minutes were reviewed 1st motion for approval by M Kahn A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 8:48 pm. April 27, 2010 Present: R Hathaway, A Lardieri, R Rockwell, M Terenzio The BCA Board business meeting was called to order at 6:42 pm. M Terenzio welcomed the attendees. Minutes (attachment) March 17, 2010 Minutes were reviewed
March 23, 2010 Minutes were reviewed
BPA K Hochman requested a schedule of the seasonal events. DISCUSSION: President’s Report M Terenzio addressed the attendees regarding Board involvement; numbers do not matter. We do need a commitment. I need to keep moving; the energy is there. We will go forward. What is the current meeting structure? The Committees may need to meet more and the Board may meet less. A Lardieri stated the time of the meetings could be moved to the mornings. D Sarcone noted that the Board has provided split feedback; some who are available during the daytimes are stating there are conflicts with family commitments – particularly children’s sporting activities. Some who are available in the evening are stating they are not in Bloomfield during the day as they work and are only available as a volunteer in the evenings. M Terenzio recommended that the meetings be shortened and we create tasks for action. A Lardieri stated there must be a commitment prior to the activity. M Terenzio advised the next meeting will address commitment, recruitment and committee structure. R Ruane noted that there is redevelopment beginning on Belleville Avenue, although this is not in the SID. New Business S Koperweis advised that the Township had installed the multi-recycling bins with advertising pre-set. The BCA was not given an opportunity to advertise as originally agreed. M Terenzio stated the College may be acquiring a motion captured theater, which would be the only location in New Jersey. It would allow for multiple uses such as viewing; filmmaking, games and medical applications. D Sarcone reviewed the attachment ‘Bloomfield Center News’ highlighting the Yoga expansion on Block 228, as well as the new businesses who have recently opened. D Sarcone also provided an update of the Clean Team uniforms; T-shirts were given to attendees and samples of the polo shirt, all-weather jacket and caps were displayed. Harvest Fest S Koperweis advised that Harvest Fest has been slated for 09/25 & 09/26 – with new events and new elements. The contract is the same as last year, the fee has been reduced to $7,000.00 A motion was made by the Board to accept the contract with This Is It! Promotions. All elements of the contract remain the same as last year requiring a non-refundable up front payment of $7,000.00. S Koperweis advised the set-up of a 501c organization requires legal assistance. R Ruane advised he would check with the Township to see if they would lend the attorney for this purpose. Old Business S Koperweis advised that the Redevelopment scheduled for 6-Points has pending RFQ’s; he will follow-up with Fred to discuss the agreement. M Terenzio asked for clarification on what it means that the ‘BCA will take the lead’ on the train restoration project. S Koperweis stated the Township has set aside $1.1 million for this project, however, the BCA will manage the restoration efforts in accordance with the redevelopment of the Center. K Hochman noted that Maplewood offers a concierge service with drop off dry cleaners, shoe repair, concession stand, dinner pick-up service, etc. As this is a success, perhaps Bloomfield should use this as a template. R Hathaway noted that the Lois would like to serve as a liaison to the BCA from the Chamber of Commerce; he will advise her of the next meeting scheduled. A Lardieri noted we want to ensure that 6-points project does not drag out. R Ruane confirmed the Township has made a commitment to this project and the funding has already been allocated. A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 7:32 pm. D Sarcone advised the next meeting is scheduled for May 25, 2010
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