At the Pennington Borough Council’s regular meeting February 5, Council got a history lesson as Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission Eric Holtermann spoke about the historic district along Main Street and Delaware Avenue and the Commission’s work to preserve its character. The Commission’s goal is to prevent buildings from demolition and provide guidance to property owners to ensure that maintenance or changes performed on the property do not change its architectural character.
Holtermann said this past year the members have focused on updating the Historic Preservation Commission’s website, which provides a good starting point for residents or business owners who need to perform upkeep or desire to make modifications to their property. At the website, viewers can access the historic preservation ordinance, applications, and a FAQ page which answers questions about the Certificate of Appropriateness requirement, building permits, and what type of work does or does not need an application. The website also includes a historic district map and a survey which lists the homes in Pennington including construction date, architectural and structural facts, and historical significance.
In addition to their work on the website, commission members have been updating the Historic Preservation section of the Pennington Master Plan, last published in 2010. Holtermann credited planning board member Andrew Jackson and a 15-person citizen advisory committee for its ongoing work on the project. Holtermann said the commission welcomes members of the public to become involved. Looking ahead, Holtermann said the Commission is considering the future of a few “at risk” properties in town: the Pennington Train station, the Bethel A.M.E. Church, the Styleworthy Salon, and the Hopewell Board of Education building.
Holtermann invited members of the public to attend and participate in Historic Preservation meetings which are posted on the Borough website and generally held the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm. Homeowners or those curious about the history of particular homes and other areas of the Valley should visit Hopewell Valley History, the work of Hopewell Borough resident Doug Dixon.
Clean Energy Grant
Council member John Valenza announced a State sponsored grant program and Council approved a resolution to apply for the grant. Titled “NJ Clean Energy Program Community Energy Planning Grant Program,” its purpose is to support the Borough’s efforts to assure clean land, air, and water for current and future residents.
The resolution states that the program will help Pennington plan for and invest in renewable energy “by using the state’s Energy Master Plan (EMP) as a guide to develop sustainable strategies that increase clean energy production, reduce energy use, and cut emissions.”
Officer Di’Ascoli recognized
Borough Police Chief Douglas Pinelli recognized Officer Daniel Di’Ascoli for heading Pennington’s LEAD program (Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence). Di’Ascoli is working with fourth grade students at Toll Gate Elementary School to help them build character and avoid succumbing to peer pressure.
Di’Ascoli was appointed to the role of Detective at the Council meeting based on Pinelli’s recommendation and Council’s approval. In addition to his on-patrol responsibilities, he will become the Department’s liaison to the juvenile unit of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office as well as being a juvenile liaison to the schools in the Borough, and he will head the police department’s Internal Affairs Unit.
Online tax payments approved
Council passed a resolution to give property owners the option of paying tax and utility bills online. The Borough will use its current tax and utility software provider, Edmunds GovTech. Property owners who use this system will pay $1.05 per banking transaction, and up to three percent on credit card transactions.
Before closing the Borough meeting, Mayor James Davy expressed gratitude for the contributions attorney Ed McManimon has made to Pennington over the years. Mr. McManimon died February 2.
The next Borough Council meeting is scheduled for March 4, 7 pm.
