Medford Lakes authorizes blanket cross‑access agreement with Colony after public objections

The Medford Lakes Borough Council voted May 27 to authorize execution of a Blanket Cross‑Access Agreement with the Medford Lakes Colony Club (Resolution 53‑26), after residents raised concerns during public comment that the agreement could allow access without prior notice.

Dale Keagy, who identified himself as President of the Colony, urged approval and described the agreement as formalizing an arrangement "that has been in place for 100 years," saying the resolution simply documents longstanding mutual access for maintenance and repairs. In contrast, resident Joe Aromando said he "does not agree with the statements made in support of Resolution 53‑26" and warned a blanket agreement could expose the borough and said parties should notify one another "when and why they will be on each other’s property." Aromando urged Council to reconsider the blanket‑style authorization.

Manager Robert J. Burton responded that the resolution is not a permissive carte blanche. "This is not a simple agreement to let the Colony 'do whatever they want' as was suggested during public comment," Burton said, adding the agreement requires the parties to inform each other of work and includes restoration requirements. Solicitor Douglas Heinold described written notice and restoration provisions in the proposed agreement and said it is intended to protect both parties and to reflect an increasing partnership that can save money through shared services.

Deputy Mayor Dennis P. O’Neill introduced the resolution and the council authorized execution subject to final attorney review. The vote carried among members present. The resolution directs the mayor and borough clerk to execute the agreement in a form substantially similar to the attached draft, with final review and approval by the borough attorney.