Dear Friends and Neighbors; 

      Many of you have asked for an update of our dredging project and what should be done to assure that the dredging would be completed. To help put into perspective and answer some of your questions, we will detail our progress below and also illustrate this progress with a pie chart, which is included in this mailing. Please take some time to understand what we have done, where we are, and what must still be accomplished.  

      As is typical in projects such as this, the prep work takes considerably more time and effort than the physical act of actually doing the job!   We are about two years into the project and, with your financial help, will push to complete dredging as soon as is humanly possible.  

      Your dredging committee consists of eight members of the community representing a good cross section of property owners. We initially reviewed previous records pertaining to past efforts at having our lagoons dredged and found that there was very little to work with. Starting fresh, committee members attended a seminar given by a professor at Stockton College on procedures and principles of dredging. We met with a Tuckerton official to discuss the challenges and pitfalls Tuckerton experienced during their 1985 dredging project. We met with a Rutgers scientist to review the Garden State Parkway Mullica River project, seeking concepts that could be used on our project. There have been, and will continue to be, several discussions with the New Jersey Natural Land Trust in search of sites to deposit dredged materials. 

      The committee then interviewed engineering firms and ultimately contracted HyLand Design Group to do a feasibility study and, upon its successful completion, decided to retain HyLand for the entire engineering process of the project. 

      Along with a HyLand Design engineer, committee members met with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to learn what procedures are required by state and federal agencies for this project  

      The committee, with HyLand’s guidance, determined the scope of the project, which included what areas of our lagoons need dredging and reviewed potential sites to deposit dredged materials. Deposit sites are still under review; however, there are several sites that look very promising. 

      Now we are having HyLand Design do a survey of the lagoons to define, specifically, the amount of dredging required and create a conceptual plan to present to the New Jersey DEP. [You may have recently seen them working the area.]  The DEP will review the plan to determine the location and number of test borings required for permit application. We then move to the final stages of engineering. 

      Osborne Island residents have contributed $ 24,690.00 to date and we have spent $21,599.00.  In order to complete the engineering portion of the project, which includes borings to test samples from the lagoons and disposal site, a complete engineering plan for the dredging company to work from and to apply for permits, we will require $ 27,600.00 additional.   We need your help to complete the funding of this portion of the project.  

      By way of a reminder, as we told you in our previous mailing, with full participation we expect to hold the total cost to each household to about $950.00. Many of you have already made contributions. Many residents have made multiple contributions and a few have been very generous. The committee and the community thank you very much. For those of you who have been sitting on the sideline, now is the time to jump in and take an active role in this community project. Every dollar contributed goes directly to this project. Many residents are curious as to which of their neighbors have supported this project. After this mailing we will provide to you a list of contributors, which will be updated on a regular basis. 

      The committee is exploring every option it can think of in searching for help in funding the “dredging contract” and final portion of the project. We will search for any form of local, state or federal, government assistance that might be available, however unlikely. We will approach local commercial businesses for contributions and will consider any other method of funding in order to offset the cost to residents.   If you have any ideas, please contact the committee and share it. 

      In order to show our determination to these governments and businesses and receive their financial help we, as a community, must complete the funding of the engineering portion of the project now. The problem of the silting in our lagoon inlet areas is not going to go away unless we take the initiative to correct it. It will get worse and property values in the entire community will be affected! Let’s not allow that to happen. We know of two incidents already where prospective buyers have asked about navigability of our lagoons and chose to look elsewhere after hearing of low tide difficulties. This could be the initial sign of potential property value depreciation due specifically to shallow low tide lagoons. Remember, a one percent reduction of property value is $1000.00 per $100,000.00 of property value. You can do the math for your property!   

      Mail your contributions today!!!

      We will all benefit when the dredging is completed. 

      The success of this endeavor is in the hands of all Osborn Island residents. Whether you own waterfront or upland property we all will benefit through the successful completion of this project. 

Enclosed with this letter are 2 attachments:

1. Photo of Osborn Island showing the proposed dredge area marked with yellow;
2. Pie Chart depicting task progress for the entire project. 

 

Thank you for your continued support. 

Sincerely, 

The Osborn Island Dredging Committee

7/24/2009

Osborn Island Residents Association, Inc.         Meeting Minutes July 13, 2009 

The OIRA Meeting was called to order at 8:00 pm at the Senior Center in Mystic Islands by President Gary Rizzolo. The Preamble was read by Gary Rizzolo. The May 11, 2009 OIRA Meeting Minutes were read by Tom Alessi, Vice Chair and approved. The meeting was attended by 25 people. 

 REPORTS

• Vice Chairman:  Tom Alessi, No report
• Recording Secretary:  Michele Maas, not present
• Corresponding Secretary: Jayne Soney, No Report
• Treasury Report:  Bob Dalton, not present; No report

 

  DREDGING COMMITTEE 

• Dredging Update by Tom Alessi:  On July 10, 2009 Tom and Gary met with engineers from Hyland Design. Gene and Ann Iodice donated their boat and time to allow the team to perform soundings of the proposed dredging areas.  A letter will be mailed to all Osborn Island Residents with further explanation of the next phase. The committee offered to answer questions; no questions were asked.

 

NEW BUSINESS 

• Thank you to Erin Kopp for arranging the boat luncheon. It was a success. There was a profit of $80.00.
• Thank you to Jayne Soney for ordering the Osborn Island T-Shirts. They are in and residents may pick them up this weekend at her home – [See Scuttlebutt].   This was a successful fundraiser.
• Gary asked for volunteers to set up coffee and snacks; Kathy Kelly suggested that one person per meeting volunteer; Kitty Alessi suggested that she does the coffee and another may buy the donuts and milk.  This issue was not resolved.   Please call Kitty Alessi if you can help #609-294-2285.
• As of Tuesday July 14^th Channel Markers and No Wake barrels are present; perhaps resident John Mason may donate a No Wake sign for the inlet.
• Resident Rosalee Bloys expressed concern that the red ball is not near the fish factory. Gary informed her that it is not the responsibility of Aids & Navigation.
• John Mocko received an email from Scott Meyer about a break-in attempt at 9 Kansas. The perpetrators cut all of the window screens attempting to open the windows. Other incidents reported on Kansas. Residents are asked to lock up and watch your neighbors home.
• Rosalee Bloys gave the committee an article about fighting development in your community.  The committee will read it and discuss at next meeting.
• Membership: 160 paid members. There are approximately 55 that have not paid and will receive a reminder letter.

Page 2 OIRA Minutes July 13, 2009 

• Jayne Soney named recipients of $500.00 (each) scholarships from OIRA – Zachary Yade, Penn State and Bridget Giery, Arizona State. Jayne read a thank you note from Bridget.
• New members Don & Susan Greighton from Radio Road inquired about new homes to be built. Tom responded - They are still in negotiations with Natural Land Trust.
• Peggy Madison commented about empty lots on Ohio that are not maintained. She called John DeLuca’s office and it was handled
• Last year we had a $416.00 loss on the picnic, we need 95-100 people to break even.
• Christmas Party we broke even.
• Gary asked if we wanted to revive old events such as covered dish dinner, etc.

 

Upcoming Events 

• Garage Sale drop off Friday July 31 9am – 2pm at the Senior Center. The Garage Sale Date: Saturday August 1 8am – 2pm at the Senior Center in Mystic Islands. No clothing or deteriorated items. Call Linda D’Amico at 908-947-1235 to volunteer. Items that do not sell are donated to SOCH.
• Picnic September 12 from 2pm – 7pm at the Alessi’s home 53 Kentucky Drive. Live entertainment. Rain date September 13^th. Volunteers are needed Friday September 11 and Saturday Sept 12 to help with set up. Contact Gary if you can attend: GaryR426@comcast.net or call 609-294-9021.  $12.00 for adults, children under 12 free.  BYOB.  Salads and desserts are needed call Jayne Soney @ 609-296-6775 to inform her you want to bring to avoid duplicate items.  Jayne passed a sheet to sign.
• Golf Outing Monday October 12, 2009, will be combined with the annual dinner. Additional information to follow.
• Christmas Party will be discussed at next OIRA Meeting.

 
Meeting Adjourned at 9:05pm

7/24/2009

OIRA Scuttlebutt for July 2009  

Hello everyone, 

June was so cold, rainy and dreary; I began to doubt if summer would ever arrive.  But, here she is and the weather these past 2 week in July has been glorious --- perfect for enjoying our beautiful island. 

CONGRATULATIONS to Carl and Roseanne Modica on their 50th wedding anniversary on June 6.  A beautiful party and renewal of their wedding vows was held at La Reggia Restaurant in Secaucus NJ.  Many good Osborn Island friends were honored to join in the day with them.  A beautiful time was shared by all who attended. 

THANKS to Anne & Gene Iodice and Gary Rizzolo for the use of their boats for the dredging project.  It is very much appreciated. 

THANKS to Erin Kopp for being chairperson of the boat trip to the “Flying Cloud Café” on July 13. What a great time!!   Seven boats and 45 people had a great lunch, and the weather was perfect.  Thanks to Erin & Fred for hosting the after party at their house. 

The June 2009 Osborn Island Residents Association Scholarship winners were: Bridget Giery, who will be attending Arizona State & Zachery Yade, who will be attending Penn State --- both Osborn Island residents.  CONGRATULATIONS! 

Channel Markers & “No Wake” signs are now in place for the entrance to our island!!! 

GARAGE SALE is Saturday August 1, from 8:00AM until 2:00-3:00PM. Drop off your saleable items at the Senior Center on July 31 from 9am - 2pm. Call (908) 947-1235 Donna for more info.  Volunteers are needed to help. 

ANNUAL PICNIC is September 12 [rain date – Sept 13] on Kentucky Dr from 2:00PM-7:00PM.  Cost $12.00.  Call Jayne Soney at (609) 296-6775 and let her know if you are coming and if you will bring a salad or dessert. 

ANNUAL GOLF OUTING (& Dinner) will be on October 1 at Atlantis Golf Course; more info to follow. 

T- Shirts are ready for pick up (NO DELIVERY). Call Jayne at (609) 296- 6775 to arrange your time for pickup at her house at 27 Ohio Dr on Saturday, July 18th from 8AM-12NOON and Sunday, July 19th from 8:00AM -11:00AM. 

There have been reports of several “attempted” break-ins of homes on the island, specifically Kansas Rd.

You, full-time residents please be aware of your neighbor’s homes, especially those neighbors who only come down on weekends. 

Next meeting Monday, September 14 at 8:00PM.  See you there. 

Call me with any of your items for publication in the Scuttlebutt. 

Have a safe summer. 

Jayne Soney

Corresponding Secretary

(609) 296-6775

 

PET BLESSING

   FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO SHARE YOUR HOMES, LIVES AND HEARTS WITH A PET, THE MYSTIC ISLAND AMERICAN LEGION POST 493 WILL SPONSOR A PET BLESSING IN HONOR OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI.

   THE BLESSING WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 [RAIN DATE – OCTOBER 10^TH; PHONE: 609-812-1501] AT 10:00AM IN THE FIELD DIRECTLY BEHIND THE LEGION POST. THE BLESSING WILL BE CONDUCTED BY REV. JOHN CARDELLO, THE POST CHAPLAIN AND PASTOR OF THE TEMPLAR MINISTRIES – AND – A MEMBER OF O.I.R.A.

   THIS PROGRAM IS OPEN TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WHO'S PETS SHARE A SPECIAL PLACE IN THEIR LIVES. ANYTHING WITH FUR, FEATHERS OR SCALES, ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL, ALL THINGS GREAT AND SMALL ARE INVITED, SO TELL YOUR NEIGHBORS, FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

   PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT THE POST AND WE ASK EACH PET OWNER TO ACT RESPONSIBLY REGARDING THE SAFETY OF THEIR PETS AS WELL AS OTHERS, AND TO NOT LEAVE ANY WASTE BEHIND.

6/16/2009

Meeting Minutes May 11, 2009

The OIRA Meeting was called to order at 7:40 pm by President Gary Rizzolo.  Tom Alessi, Vice Chairman led the flag salute. The Preamble was read by Gary Rizzolo. The March 9, 2009 OIRA Meeting Minutes were read and approved. The meeting was attended by 28 people.

REPORTS

• Vice Chairman:                         Tom Alessi, No report
• Recording Secretary:                 Michele Maas, Read Minutes March 9, 2009
• Corresponding Secretary:           Jayne Soney, No Report
• Treasury Report:                       Bob Dalton, distributed Financial Summary Report for March 2009 thru April 2009. There is a negative balance of $1,540.47. This is due to the bulk mailing permit and fees; the printing of the Osborn Island Directory.

OLD BUSINESS

• Cass Sweeney still has fly traps available for sale. $7.00 for two. Please give her a call and have exact amount ready for your purchase, 609-458-9700

NOMINATIONS

• This was a nomination meeting for all Officers positions. Positions were opened up for volunteers. All current positions were affirmed as follows:

o        Gary Rizzolo, Chairman      

o        Tom Alessi, Vice Chair

o        Treasurer, Bob Dalton

o        Recording Secretary, Michele Maas

o        Corresponding Secretary, Jayne Soney

TOPICS COVERED WITH MAYOR SCOTT STITES

• The Landings Homes land owner is asking $4.2 million for the property and is suing LEHT over the recreation fees;
• Wal-Mart has been approved; waiting for CAFRA and DOT approvals;
• The pumping station on Osborn is undergoing scheduled upgrade;
• The county is looking to repair the Osborn bridge; there is some seepage they need to correct first;
• Graveling Point: Fishermen trash issue on Scotty’s Bait & Tackle has addressed this with a posted notice. There is also a problem with double parking; if you see this call the police. There are 3 new trash cans – Thank you to Mayor Scott Stites, he helped deliver these himself;
• Other Topics covered in regards to Graveling Point & Osborn:

* Paint Wall                              * Turtle signs gone                    * Street sweeping         

* Wood stakes need cutting        * Dead tree removal                  * Roadside debris by Kansas/Radio

• Maryland Avenue still floods after storms, this was addressed in prior meeting with Mayor;
• Transfer Station; the township is against it so project is on hold for now;
• Section 8 Housing; this is supported by State taxes not property tax;
• Questions on Tuckerton and LEHT joining Police forces.

Page 2 OIRA Minutes May 11, 2009

 

DREDGING COMMITTEE

Tom Alessi had the following information:

·         The Dredging Committee met with the dredge spoil site owner and attorney, a letter of intent is in process;

·         TO DO:

o        Dredge spoil test for contamination;

o        Test spoil site(s) for contamination;

o        Core samples and soundings;

o        Compare costs for haul to site vs. pump to site;

o        There is approximately 5,000 cubic yards of dredge (current estimate);

o        Hopefully this will be completed by fall.

NEW BUSINESS

·         Jayne Soney is holding a T-Shirt sale for Osborn Island and brought sample of the T-Shirts.  Please place your order by June 15^th with your payment.  (SEE enclosed flyer.)

·         July 13 Flying Cloud Luncheon @ 12:15 for $20.00 per person.  RSVP by June 15 with payment to Erin Kopp.   (SEE enclosed flyer.)

·         Motion made to donate $100.00 to Memorial Day Parade Committee LEHT; approved.

 

Meeting Adjourned 9:45pm

Copy of recent Dredge Letter:
                                                                                                                   Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Dear Osborn Island Friends and Neighbors,

            On behalf of the Osborn Island Residents Association Dredging Committee we wish to first say “Thank You” to all of you for your participation of time, contributions, and recommendations in regard to this important project for our community.

We are pleased to inform you that significant progress has been made over the last several months with our dredging project, and we will soon present to you a final proposal.   The current economic environment has put us in a strong position to secure very favorable terms, previously unavailable, from engineers and contractors.   It is unknown how long this opportunity will last, so we must act quickly over the next several weeks to have all the details of the proposal finalized.

Most importantly, the cost of this project has fallen into the lower range of our earlier projections.   The cost of the project, per household, with full participation from all Osborn Island residents is in the range of $750.00 to $950.00.   This cost can be spread out over the next couple of years.   If we act quickly, we believe that the cost per household will NOT increase.   This cost is in addition to what has already been collected to date for engineering expenses and is minimal compared to the negative ramifications of allowing navigation to continue to deteriorate throughout Osborn Island.

Once the proposal is finalized, we will announce a meeting to update all interested residents with the particulars of this project.

Thank you for your continued interest, patience and participation in this important undertaking for our wonderful island.

Sincerely,

Osborn Island Residents Dredging Committee          Phone:           (609) 294-9021

 

Osborn Island Residents Dredging Committee          Phone:           (609) 294-2285

===============================================================================================================

03/14/2009

Scuttlebutt Newsletter - March/April 2009

Hello OIRA Members:

Spring 2009 is finally here!   I am glad the long cold winter is over.   We want to welcome back all our snowbirds.   Soon it will be time for all the gardeners on Osborn Island to start planting their flower and vegetable gardens.   Some of our gardeners generously share their delicious vegetables with neighbors and it is very much appreciated.   The gorgeous flowers in bloom add to the beauty of our island.   Can't wait to see some color!!!

If spring is here...summer 2009 can't be very far behind.

Just a reminder to make sure all boaters have completed the required NJ Marine safety course.   It is the law this year!!!   If you have any questions contact the NJ state police and they will give you the info you need.

Our Ladies luncheon is Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at the Careme's at ACCC.

If interested in attending please call Pat Shepherd at 609-294-9740.

Also, call Pat with restaurant suggestions for future luncheons.

Our OIRA season gets in full swing beginning in May.   We want to offer many events to our members, but we need volunteers!!!   It is very easy and a great way to get to know your neighbors.   Call Gary at 609-294-9021, and get involved!!!

Don't forget your OIRA dues of $25.00 are now due for 2009-2010.  OIRA was founded in 1989, so this year is our 20th anniversary.

All suggestions as a way to make this anniversary special are appreciated.

Call Gary at 609-294-9021 if you have any ideas.

Please call me with info you want me to publish it in the Scuttlebutt.

I am at 609-296-6775.

See you at the May 11^TH meeting @ 8:00PM. 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

Jayne Soney

====================================================================================

Meeting Minutes March 9, 2009 

The OIRA Meeting was called to order at 7:40 pm by President Gary Rizzolo.  Gary led the flag salute. The Preamble was read by Gary. The January 8, 2009 OIRA Meeting Minutes were read and approved. The meeting was attended by 15 people.

REPORTS

• Vice President:                        Tom Alessi, not present; No report;
• Recording Secretary:              Michele Maas; Read Minutes from January 8, 2009;
• Corresponding Secretary:       No Report;
• Treasury Report:                     Bob Dalton, not present; No report.

OLD BUSINESS

• Dredging Committee letter to be sent out after March 18th, the letter is available for review – contact Gary or other members

             of the Dredging Committee for a copy.

NEW BUSINESS

•      Volunteers are needed to assist with 2009 O.I.R.A. Events; Call Gary at: 609-294-9021;

•       Beach Clean-up and breakfast is scheduled for April 18, rain date April 19, for Osborn Island, Radio Road, and
  

                         Graveling Point beach. Moira Modica is our contact [609-294-0599].  The Mystic Island Firehouse is being contacted to

                         assist with the clean up around the bridge; they did a super job last year in helping out;

•     A special “Thank You” to Jayne Soney for her tribute to Jeanne Phillips in the January Scuttlebutt;

•    The new OIRA Directories have been printed and are ready for distribution. John Mocko brought labeled copies to the
  

                         meeting; they will also be at the next meeting.  If you can’t wait, call John @ 609-294-6967 to arrange a pickup date & time;

•      Jayne Soney is looking into custom T-shirts for Osborn Island;

•      John Mocko was recognized for his several years of dedication and hard work to O.I.R.A.   John is looking for relief of
  

                           some of these duties; someone is needed to do membership updates, mailings; correspondence, etc...;

                           He will be happy to train anyone interested;

•        AARP will be at the Community Center every Wednesday 9am – 1pm until April 15 doing free taxes for those over
  

                            50 years of age;

•         Annual Christmas Party may be held at the Atlantis Golf course; more info to follow

•         Membership Dues are to be paid May 1, 2009 and valid thru April 30, 2010.   Dues are $25.00;

•         BoatUS Group Membership has been renewed by Wilbur “Shep” Shepherd for the 2009 year.  Our group rate is

                              half price at $12.50 and includes a 1-year subscription to BoatUS magazine;

                      Use Group #: GA82917B; Any questions call Shep @ 609-294-9740;

                      BoatUS also has towing services; Call 800-888-4869 for rates;

•         Garage Sale will be held August 1, 2009 @ the Senior Center; Drop off date is July 31st;

•         The Graveling Point sign is missing. Gary has called the Division of Gaming – it is unknown when they will replace it;

                       ·                                 NOTE: All O.I.R.A. meeting times will now be 8:00PM on the Second Monday;

                       ·                           REMINDER – view the new O.I.R.A. website at:

http://osbornisland.org/

======================================================================================

1/05/2009

Meeting Minutes January 8, 2009 

The OIRA Meeting was called to order at 7:30 pm by President Gary Rizzolo.  Tom Alessi led the flag salute. Approximately 14 people were in attendance. The Preamble was read by Gary.

The November 10, 2008 OIRA Meeting Minutes was read and approved.  

Gary noted that in memory of Jeanne Phillips the OIRA made a contribution to the Memorial Fund at Sussex United Methodist Church, Sussex, NJ. 

The Atlantic City Electric Company deposit of $1200.00 + interest was credited to the OIRA account in error. Gary called the electric company and a check should be mailed out shortly. 

REPORTS

• Vice President:   No Report;
• Recording Secretary:  Read Minutes from November 10, 2008. Also, reminded members that Sun Bank now handles OIRA accounts and any mail from Sun Bank could include our mailers with upcoming event information;
• Corresponding Secretary: No Report;
• Treasury Report:  Read by Bob Dalton.   The ending balance is $6,901.80. The Bank of America accounts have been closed and monies moved to Sun Bank interest bearing accounts. There is a $1,000.00 balance in a money market account. The Holiday Party had a loss of $182.00.

 

OLD BUSINESS

• Green Street:   74 home sites approved; Property owner has to re-apply to DEP;
• Dredging meetings with Hyland Designs & Highland Marine; the committee is waiting for estimates for a total cost of the dredging project.

 

NEW BUSINESS

• REMEMBER OUR NEW MEETING DATES FOR THE YEARS – 2009 – 2010:

[Second Monday of the following months – 8:00PM – LEH Senior Center]

• Donations for 2009:
• PAL $250.00;   All in favor;
• Habitat for Humanity $100.00; All in favor;
• Pinelands High School:  Two(2) – $500.00 Scholarships;

       Tom Alessi motioned;   All in favor; 

Upcoming Events

• Beach Clean-Up dates April 18^th, {rain date April 19^th} and another one in Sept?

      [Need Committee Chairperson.]

• Membership Dues [2009-2010]:  Dues payable starting May 1^st, 2009;   $25.00.
  
• Memorial Day Parade:   Tentative;
• Boat Trip to Atlantic City:  Flying Cloud, July 13^th – Tentative;
• Annual Picnic September 12^th at Tom & Kitty Alessi’s on Kentucky Drive;
• Annual Golf Outing:   October 5^th – Bob Dalton;
• Holiday Party – December 12^th:  Ideas for location –?

      [Back to Firehouse, Holiday Inn, Atlantis Golf Course, Tuckerton Beach Grille];

• Annual Dinner – Tentative.

Meeting Adjourned 8:30pm; Motion by Tom Alessi, Second by Gary Rizzolo, All in favor.

Please note our new Website Address:

www.osbornisland.org

1/05/2009

O.I.R.A. SCUTTLEBUTT for January/February 2009 
 
 

This month’s issue of the Scuttlebutt is a tribute to our member Jeanne Phillips.  

      The value of a volunteer, neighborhood association such as OIRA is measured by the strengths and talents of its members.  OIRA was fortunate to have Jeanne Phillips as one of our most valued, talented, dedicated, members these past years.

      The first year Jeanne and Ron came to Osborn Island she immediately volunteered their home on Radio Road for the site of the annual garage sale.   I would describe Jeanne as ORGANIZED!    First at her home, and later at the Senior Center, Jeanne set up the tables, collected money, gave change, collected donations, took out the trash, knitted and baked for the sale, wrote the newspaper publicity, and supplied us workers with bug spray against the gnats! 

      A few years later, Jeanne said "Let's do an OIRA cookbook."   Once again Jeanne took on the task.   She collected and sorted the recipes, typed every one of them herself, picked out the cover page, arranged the sections inside and promoted the book tirelessly.   The cookbook was a huge success and made a nice profit for OIRA's charities.   Many members bought several copies and gave them as gifts.  Most of us refer to the cookbook frequently to look up favorite recipes. 

      Of all Jeanne's efforts on behalf of OIRA, I think Jeanne's forte was the annual Christmas party.   Again, Jeanne was Chairperson.   When members arrived, the hall we entered into was a beautiful, twinkling, sparkling room.   All tables were candlelit and were exquisite.   The menu was always delicious and the evening just a great time.   And of course, Jeanne was on clean-up duty that night too. 

      When I heard Jeanne had passed away I thought of her husband, Ron and her sons, especially, Allan.    How they must miss her.   I hope reading this will give them some comfort to know we, her neighbors miss her and will remember her too. 

Thanks, Jeanne, for all you did for your neighbors and friends. 

OIRA thanks you and may you rest in peace.  
 

Respectfully Submitted,

Jayne Soney

Corresponding Secretary

11/21/08

Osborn Island Residents Association, Inc.

Meeting Minutes November 10, 2008 

The OIRA Meeting was called to order at 7:30 pm by President Gary Rizzolo.  Tom Alessi led the flag salute. Approximately 24 people were in attendance.  

REPORTS

• Vice President:   No Report
• Recording Secretary:  No Report
• Corresponding Secretary: No Report
• Treasury Report:  The report dated 05/01/08 – 10/23/08 was read by Bob Dalton.  Ending Balance $7,041.98.  We are still waiting for the deposit from the Atlantic City Electric Company from the OIRA bridge sign.   $416.22 was lost on the Picnic which was attended by 80 people.   The Golf Outing made $70.00 and was attended by 28 people and an additional 10 people came for the dinner.  The Bank of America accounts have been moved to Sun Bank.   These are interest bearing money market accounts.   Sun Bank will do our mailings for us.   For example you will receive the Holiday Party Flyer and other announcements from Sun Bank with offers from them.   Sun Bank is offering Osborn Island residents free banking, see Christine the bank manager.   John Mocko made the motion to accept the Treasury Report, seconded by Tom Alessi, and passed by consensus.

 

DREDGING UPDATE

• Tom Alessi and Gary Rizzolo met November 10th with Hyland Designs to work on plans for a preliminary dredging estimate

 

UPCOMING EVENT

• Christmas Party will be held Saturday December 13th from 6pm to 11pm at the Mystic Island American Legion Post 493 on Radio Road and is limited to 100 people. RSVP by December 3RD. Volunteers needed to decorate: Kitty Alessi and Pete Terlecky have volunteered to date; WE NEED 4-5 MORE PEOPLE; PLEASE HELP!!!   Call JOHN MOCKO – 609-294-6967.

 

OIRA Business Meeting was adjourned at 7:50pm to introduce Guest Speaker Mayor Scott Stites 

TOPICS COVERED WITH MAYOR SCOTT STITES

• Pumpkin Festival & Halloween Hayride was attended by approx. 10,000 people.  Next year the town will be looking for sponsorship from local HOA’s and small business;
• NEW PROJECTS: A possible Sprinkler Park; dock for fishing; police boat 1200’ bulkhead @ Community Center needs replacing – a CAFRA permit is needed, the town has met with DEP;
• The Osborn Bridge inspection, NO new information to date. The paving of the road by the bridge will be a spring 2009 project.

 

ISSUES FROM RESIDENTS

• Pirates Cove – someone left chicken wire & lumber in the area. Mayor will have Code Enforcement take a look;
• Maryland Ave drainage issue after storm; can a storm drain be installed? No longer permitted unless properly filtered, this is a County Road. Also, if there is ice build-up call Township first, if they can’t handle it they should call County;
• Graveling Point signs keep disappearing; trying to come up with a solution;
• Will property taxes be reassessed?   NO, because total amount needed & collected for the LEH, County & State budgets would still be the same amount & spread out over the entire township residents;
• Graveling Point wall, painting and repairs – Will be addressed in Spring 2009;
• Weeds on vacant lots – Owners are not obligated to keep cut natural vegetation.

 

PLANNING BOARD ITEMS

• Dec 30, 2002 Re-zoning meeting included “The Landings”, reducing the building lots from over 125 to 74;
• Discussed with Mayor regarding “The Landings” levy/retention basin; the bridge; traffic; bonding for any damages by the construction; animal life, etc…
• MUA meets 2nd Tuesday of every month;  Good idea to attend as they have no idea of the ramifications that an additional 74 homes would produce;
• COAH = Affordable Housing - 1 out of 7 units; 200 units due. The township has until 2018 to fulfill. There will be 49 very low income units @ $498 rent per month provided by town.

  

REMEMBER OUR NEW MEETING DATES: 

Second Thursday of Every Other Month

• Nov. 10, 2008  January 8, 2009 March 12, 2009
• May 14, 2009  July 9, 2009  Sept. 10, 2009
• Nov. 12, 2009  January 14, 2010

 

Please note our new Website Address: 

http://sites.google.com/site/osbornislandoira/Home

11/21/08

7/29/2008

Osborn Island Residents Association, Inc.

Meeting Minutes July 17, 2008

 

The OIRA Meeting was called to order at 7:30 pm by President Gary Rizzolo followed by the flag salute. Approximately 18 people were in attendance.  The Planning Board Meeting was also being held tonight and several residents were in attendance there.

ATTENTION:  NEW MEETING DATES: From now on our meetings will be the Second Thursday of every other month starting with:          09/11/2008; 11/13/2008; 01/08/2009; 03/12/2009; 05/14/2009.

 

REPORTS

·                     Vice President:                             No Report;

·                     Recording Secretary:                No Report;

·                     Corresponding Secretary:      No Report;

·                     Treasury Report:                       Read by Bob Dalton Starting Balance $5,795.33.  Total Income

$1,955.00 from membership dues and gifts.  Expenses $963.16 leaving an Ending Balance of

 $6,758.49.

 

RESULTS OF MEETING WITH MAYOR STITES

 

• The sidewalk at Graveling Point has been repaired
• The wall at Graveling Point is to be painted
• The NO DOG signs have been put back up
• Turtle Crossing signs will be put up
• Additional Trash cans have been placed at Graveling Point

 

UPCOMNG EVENTS

• August 2^nd Yard Sale at the Senior Center on Radio Road from 8am – 2pm.   Please drop off your items August 1; Contact Dolores Dalton 609-294-0975

 

• September 13^th, 2pm-6pm Picnic.  Location is cul-de-sac on Kentucky Drive.  RSVP Postcards will be mailed out.  Cost is $12.00 per person member or non-member; BYOB.
• October 6^th Golf Outing at The Atlantis, $65.00 per person, covers golf and dinner.   Or if you just want to attend the buffet dinner, it will be $25.00 per person with a cash bar.   Mail your check to Bob Dalton.   A flyer with details is included with this mailing.
• December 13^th Christmas/Holiday Party will be held at the American Legion on Radio Road from 6pm to 11pm.   Additional information will follow.

 

Green Street Development HOMES UPDATE

Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) has a $10,000.00 grant that Little Egg Harbor is matching with $14,075.00.   Please see the article in Tuckerton Beacon dated July 17, 2008.   Gary and Tom will address Mayor Scott Stites with questions on this project.

 

PLEASE REMEMBER drop off your 2008 dues, either to john Mocko at 20 kentucky dr – or - mail to: o.i.r.a. po box 425 leh, nj 07087-1035.          [Checks made out to o.i.r.a.]

 

Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm in order to attend the Planning Board Meeting.

 

 

 

O.I.R.A. SCUTTLEBUTT for July/August 2008

 

Hello Everyone:

 

Can you believe we are already in the middle of summer already?  Where does the time go?  I hope everyone is having a happy healthy summer in spite of the green heads!  Oh well, they will be gone by September.

 

OIRA would like to welcome new members Bob and Kathy Valentine of 25 Ohio Dr.  The Valentines are from Bucks County PA and this is their summer home. 

 

Don't forget the Ladies Luncheons; next one is August 27 at the Grapevine.  Call Pat Shepherd at 294-9740 to sign up.

 

The OIRA garage sale is Saturday August 2, set up is Friday August 1.  Much help is needed.  Call Dee Dalton at 295-0975.

 

The OIRA Picnic is September 13; [We’re planning for it to happen at the end of Kentucky dr.].  This is a great annual event.   CHECK the sign on Radio Rd when we get closer; REFER to the O.I.R.A. Meeting Minutes included with this mailing.  Make plans to attend and meet your neighbors and friends.

 

Please call me at 609-296-6775 if you have any items of interest for the next issue of the SCUTTLEBUTT, feel free to brag or boast a bit.

 

If you haven't already done so, please register with the county clerk's to vote.  The 2008 Presidential election will be very important to the future direction of our country.  Please make sure you are eligible to exercise your right to vote.

 

Yours Truly,

Jayne Soney

Corresponding Secretary

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