Turf Field Discussion

Much to my surprise, there was not a large crowd at the meeting last night to discuss the plans for a Turf Field. Of the small group there an even smaller group requested to speak. I also have to say I was surprised at the speakers - I expected a 50/50 turnout for people for or against the field - instead every person who spoke understood the need, and only one was not whole heartedly behind it. The most interesting thing was that of the few who spoke, some didn't even have children who would benefit from this field - but they still see the benefit to the township and the children.

The two concerns-

1. financial
2. The impact on the spring track team, that uses the track for practices. This is the only track in the town, so they really need to practice, but cannot be practicing with lacrosse and soccer balls flying around their heads.

After the discussions among board members and listening to the speakers, these are my thoughts.

1. Financial - We currently pay $20,000/year to maintain a field that is used by 1 team - the football team - for approximately 5 home games. That money is much better spent paying towards a turf field and having it able to be used by thousands of children in the district. The turf would be a 50/50 split between the HS sports and recreation. How could you possibly imagine a better way to spend money?? We used to use the field for around 60 athletes - now we can use it for a few thousand (going on the theory there are approximately 1000 children in the soccer program alone). We also have commitments from both the Band Patrons Assoc and the Football Booster club for amounts of $5000 and $2000 per year respectively.

2. Health concerns - Synthetic turf isn't artificial turf. There have been many advances in the fibers used - and according to the consultants hired by the township the fibers now being used are fibers found in everyday household items. You can argue that we may find down the line that something could cause cancer - but do you really live your life that way?? Wondering when something is going to come and get you?? The kids are not EATING turf - they are playing on it - for a limited amount of time.

3. Track team - while I completely understand the concern of the resident who spoke on behalf of the track team, I think we have to put trust in our recreation director to continue to nourish that team and give them the time they need to practice. She is correct - that is their only place to practice - and the turf would be much safer for the children to run on than a worn down track - but thought needs to be given when scheduling teams. Just because the track runs on the outside of the field itself, does not mean that they should not get their time to practice without having to worry about flying balls hitting someone.

One resident made a comment that we shouldn't let the turf field go the same way as the pool. I thought to myself - WHAT POOL?? That was her point. We apparently had an opportunity many years ago to build a pool - and didn't. She didn't want us to pass by another opportunity. I agree.

Moving forward-

BOE meeting on Monday, Sept 21. We will discuss this further and vote. I had thought we couldn't vote until after the Town Council voted but that is not the case.

Town Council meeting on Tuesday, Sept 22. They will discuss this further and vote.