Council introduces sidewalk-waiver and tree-replenishment fund ordinances for later review

Council introduced a zoning-related ordinance to standardize how developers can obtain waivers for sidewalks by paying a fee in lieu that the township will use for future sidewalk construction. Roe and planning staff told council a per-linear-foot formula will be used so the township can assemble contiguous sidewalk improvements over time rather than forcing individual developers to build disconnected segments.

Council also introduced an ordinance creating a compensatory tree-replenishment fund to receive payments or deposits when developers remove required trees; the fund would allow coordinated tree-planting and maintenance under council direction. Both ordinances will be scheduled for review by the planning board and second readings at future council meetings.