The Concerned Citizens Of Roselle Park Petition (march 2009)

The Concerned Citizens of Roselle Park

Background (Preamble): In the matter of Roselle Park VP, LLC v. the Borough of Roselle Park, there has been a proposed settlement with eight (8) major points that have resulted from mediation talks. This negotiated proposal has been presented to the residents of Roselle Park by Mayor & Council. The major point, which has long-lasting impact on the borough, deals with PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) at a rate of 10% of the gross rental revenues for a period of 30 years. In meetings held by The Concerned Citizens of Roselle Park that have included input from various members of the community, two alternatives have been proposed which could better deal with the future impact of the Borough and should be used as a reference point for further negotiations between Roselle Park VP, LLC v. the Borough of Roselle Park. The present proposal of PILOT at 10% does not fully utilize the cap of 15% which, by law, is the maximum that can be negotiated. Additionally, viewing the possible impact of other variables such as schools and municipal-related services, the option of taxes is still a viable option to have AvalonBay Communities meet its full responsibility as property owners.

Peition: We, the undersigned, believe that the Borough of Roselle Park should not accept the negotiated terms, including all (8) major points agreed to during mediation talks, and end its fight against litigation brought by Roselle Park VP, LLC. AvalonBay Communities would be allowed to proceed with its original plan of 278 units as long as they comply with local ordinances and building codes. The Borough of Roselle Park would then proceed with applying taxes on the resulting development.

Post Office Box 154 Roselle Park, NJ 07204 www.rp-citizens.org (908) 327-4609