December 4, 2013

Chairman Heller inquired as to the linear footage of the path. Mr. Piga said the overall pathway was almost 1.75 miles; nautical themed distance markers were to be installed. Mr. Gurland asked Mr. DiVincenzo if there was consideration for extending the train ride around the entire reservoir. Mr. DiVincenzo said that there had been discussions, but no current plan was being considered; it would be something for the future. The Public Advocate had no questions for Mr. Piga. Dennis Percher, Chair of the Board of Trustees, South Mountain Conservancy, 1 Hubert Place, Maplewood. Addressing Mr. Piga, Mr. Percher stated that from a visibility point, the fence should be as minimally obtrusive as possible; he said he was concerned that a 4-ft high fence would block the view. He inquired if a 3-ft fence would be better. Mr. Piga said it was a split-rail fence and would not be at all obtrusive. Mr. Percher opined that the project was great; it would allow access close to ihe forest for those persons not usually able to get close to the area including people in wheelchairs and parents with strollers. Robert Rashkes, 35 Oakcrest Road, West Orange. Mr. Rashkes inquired as to the exact coloring of the light poles, were they nautical blue or black, were the poles paintable, and what was the color of the bridges. Mr. Piga said the bridges were black with silver; there was no plan to paint the poles a color other than shown on the plans. Mr. Taraschi introduced Daniel Salvante, Director Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs. Mr. Salvante was sworn in and accepted to be an expert witness. Mr. Taraschi said that Mr. Salvante could answer any questions regarding the project operation(s). Council President McCartney inquired as to the hours of operation. Mr. Salvante said that the Park closed at 10:00 P.M., as per County Ordinance; it opened at sunrise. Mr. Taraschi stated that there were currently a number of entranceways in to the Complex; he asked Mr. Salvante if all areas were gated and patrolled. Mr. Salvante said that all areas were gated; the Essex County Sheriff's Department was stationed at the Complex and patrolled the Complex twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week. Mr, Eben asked there was access from the east side of the Reservation; he inquired if someone could have access to the area after hours. Mr. Piga said that

ur (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week. Mr, Eben asked there was access from the east side of the Reservation; he inquired if someone could have access to the area after hours. Mr. Piga said that the current conditions had a fire trail with a fence in disrepair; someone might be able to gain access after hours, but they would be considered trespassing. Mr. Weston said that since the hours of operation were set; was there any way to have the lighting in the area set. Mr. Saivante said the lighting would be on timers; they would not be on during the middle of the night. The Public Advocate and the Public had no questions for Mr. Salvante. The Board deliberated on the Application. Council President McCartney said that although this was a Courtesy Review Application and the Board did not usually make conditions, she thought that Mr. Eben’s suggestion NAPLANNING.BRD\WP\MINUTES(2013\12-4-13 Draft Minutes.doc 5