Thank you for your input. First, allow me to correct any misinformation you have apparently obtained. The ATV committee does NOT have the power to spend any taxpayer funds. They are advisory only. Also, we do not currently have a lease with the State for Jungle Habitat. In the past, the township did have a lease agreement, but there was no charge. It merely permitted the township to use the property, free of charge, for special events like the fireworks display.
As I'm sure you are aware, the State owns the property. At this time, the DEP is conducting a study of the entire property to determine appropriate uses, including passive, active, motorized & non-motorized activities. Even if all of these activities are permitted, they would be limited in terms of location, with properly marked areas for each type of activity, so as not to disturb surrounding residents or the other users of the property.
The DEP made it clear that IF an ATV park is feasible, it cannot interfere in the hiking, biking, horseback riding and other "quiet" activities for the enjoyment of participants, nor can it be located by particularly environmentally sensitive areas. They are very concerned about protecting existing uses, as am I. They also very specifically cited that minimum buffers would be needed to protect the neighboring residents.
The final use will ultimately be up to the State, although input from the council is certainly sought.
On a personal note, I certainly agree that the neighbors, the existing users of the property, and the property itself needs to be protected. My personal, primary goal has been to work with the DEP in allowing more local uses on a vast property that is currently under-utilized, such as allowing concerts and other special events without the need for lengthy State permitting processes.
Bettina Bieri
Mayor
West Milford Township
