Committee Handles a Slew of Ordinances

The Township Committee adopted a slew of ordinances at its July 21 meeting, and introduced several others. Among the ordinances approved on second reading were:

1. Ord. 2011-09: Clarifying definitions in the township's land use regulations of "building height." Over the years, various methods of defining and describing building heights had crept into the various regulations, Township Planner John Chadwick told the committee at the ordinance's introduction. This ordinance makes the definitions consistent throughout the regulations.
2. Ord. 2011-10: Adds a requirement for the person holding the township's purchasing agent post to be certified as a qualified purchasing agent.
3. Ord. 2011-11: Granting an easement to Cingular Wireless for access to land needed for an upgrade to fiber optics planned.
4. Ord. 2011-12: Accepting the donation of .93 acres of land on Stirling Road.

The committee also introduced several new ordinances:

1. Ord. 2011-13: Setting definitions and requirements for the installation of solar power systems. The ordinance makes solar systems an accessory use in all zones, and sets installation guidelines for ground-based or roof installed systems.
2. Ord. 2011-14: Authorizing $12,000 to purchase new computer software for the construction office. Township Administrator Mark Krane said the new software will help the township improve application processing, speeding up the time needed for new permits and approvals. 
3. Ord. 2011-15: Creates a utility and maintenance easement for the Distinctive Properties at Apple Tree subdivision.
4. Ord. 2011-16: Updates the fee schedule for construction permits.

All of the new ordinances were introduced with unanimous approval.