During the Tuesday, September 26, Township Council meeting, discussion continued about Brightview Livingston Urban Renewal’s planned 150-unit senior living facility and the town’s skate park. An ordinance that would have approved an application for a long-term tax exemption - also known as a payment in lieu of taxes, or a PILOT - was initially listed on the agenda but pulled prior to the start of the meeting. Introduction of that ordinance had been tabled at previous recent meetings, as well.The property, 321 South Livingston Avenue, is the current home of the West Essex YMCA, which will soon move to a new location across the street.Meinhardt StatementBefore discussion on the matter was held, Council member Ed Meinhardt recused himself. Prior to doing so, he made a statement responding to “keyboard warrior comments” that have appeared on social media recently.The first part of his statement was in regard to the Brendan Tevlin fields, which will soon become turf fields after funds were included in the state budget for the project. He made clear that the “Brendan Tevlin” name wouldnever change, and added that the turf company would donate a “BT” for the center of one of the fields in his memory.The second part of his statement addressed accusations of a conflict of interest regarding the sale of the West Essex YMCA, due to his current employer. Meinhardt said that he joined Jarmel Kizel Architects and Engineers in May of2023. That company was awarded the architecture project for the new building in June of 2021, two years prior to his hire date.Meinhardt added that, “Although I do not believe it is a conflict, I want to avoid any appearance of conflict. And, upon advice of counsel, I will be recusing myself from any voting concerning the sale of the YMCA in any way going forward.”Ordinance IntroducedA related ordinance was introduced at the meeting, which would authorize a sale agreement between Brightview and the township, for a portion of its 357 South Livingston Avenue (block 3100, lot 55 in the tax map) property. The portion sold to Brightview would encompass the existing skate park, which is why both parties have been working to determine a replacement location.The ordinance was introduced by a unanimous 3-0 vote. Meinhardt, as previously stated, recused himself.recused himself, due to a recent conflict of interest.Afinal hearing will be held during the Monday, October 16, meeting.Resolution PassesAdditionally, a resolution was passed ...
