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Engineer updates, DEP grant modification and local infrastructure work highlighted at Newfield meeting
Summary
Engineer Wayne Johnson briefed council on well No. 5 tank testing, closed-out Franklin Streets work, a Sandy Drive bid timeline, and requested modification of a $35,000 DEP grant to avoid costly permit requirements; council agreed the modification would save money.
Engineer Wayne Johnson told the Borough of Newfield council that he plans to drain the tank at well No. 5 later in the week but must meter and test the water and share results with NJ Futures before work proceeds. He also said Franklin Streets work is closed out and payment will be made to the borough, and that the Sandy Drive bid will be advertised next week with an award expected by April 9.
Johnson reported on a $35,000 Department of Environmental Protection grant whose permit conditions he said would increase borough costs. He proposed requesting an exemption from the grant’s permit conditions and instead committing to remove brush and limbs every six months; the council agreed that the modification would be more cost effective and accepted the change in approach. County Conservation removed brush and limbs in 2025, council members noted.
The engineer also said Rosewood Development repaired a 24-inch pipe and plans to repair Catawba Avenue but will need to submit a traffic plan. The capital improvement report is complete and the borough audit is due by the end of the month.
Separately, council approved small local actions: authorization of $1,599 for the Shade Tree Commission to purchase trees; approval of a Fall Yard Sale event for Sept. 5–6, 2026; and amendment of a previously approved stage rental to a larger stage at a cost of $1,200. A letter from Nottingham Run Homeowners Association was noted concerning approximately seven dead trees around the HOA basin fence; public works will handle removals and Council President Carrow suggested introducing a tree-ordinance amendment in April.
Why it matters: The engineering updates and the decision on the DEP grant shape near-term infrastructure maintenance and budgetary choices. Equipment testing and compliance steps (well testing and grant requirements) affect timelines and costs for water and road projects.
What’s next: Well testing results will be shared with NJ Futures; Sandy Drive bidding will proceed with an expected award by April 9; the DEP-grant modification will be pursued administratively.
