No Lights at Mosle Preserve
Purpose
This website serves as a platform to raise awareness and provide information regarding the proposed installation of stadium field lighting at Mosle Preserve in Mendham Township, New Jersey. Supported by a growing number of local residents, our aim is to oppose Mendham Township's plan to introduce sports field lights in this cherished natural space. We firmly believe that such a plan sets a dangerous precedent within the township, disregarding the historical and environmental significance of this section of Mendham, which holds a crucial position at the headwaters of the Raritan River. Our opposition stems from concerns about excessive development in the area, as we remain steadfast in our commitment to preserving not only Mosle Preserve but also the idyllic charm of Mendham and the surrounding communities.
Concerns
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Safety of our residential streets of Roxiticus, Carriage Hill, and Hunters Glenn
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Preserving our drinking water, wildlife, and the environment from runnoff, light and noise pollution
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Fiscally responsible usage of taxpayer money; investments in the community should benefit all not a just a few
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Preserving the character of the Mendham we love
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Protecting the value of homes for the residents of Mendham and surrounding areas
Mosle Field
Photo Credit - HikeMendham.org
Timeline
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2008
Purchase of Mosle Preserve 2009
In conconjunction with the Trust for Public Land, the Mosle Preserve was acquired from Sisters of St John the Baptist....
Protecting the land was a priority of the township, both for its open space resources and to protect drinking water quality.
For more information see Trust for Public Land - Mosel Preserve
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2009
Grand Opening of Mosle Preserve
The opening ceremony will be hosted by the Mendham Township Open Space Trust Committee, acknowledging the many organizations that partnered with and contributed to the acquisition. These include the Mendham Township Committee, the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Green Acres Program, the Trust for Public Land, the Schiff Natural Lands Trust, the New Jersey Water Supply Authority, the Victoria Foundation, and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. Mendham Township provided $1,500,000 towards the $8,350,000 total cost, with the rest provided by the other partners to preserve the historic, environmental, and other features of the property.
For more information see Hike Mendham
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2014
Mr. Merkt stated that the matter is addressed in the Township Ordinance, which closes public facilities at dark. Mr. Tolley agreed that it is unnecessary to add that lighting is not permitted. It should be clear; however, that temporary lighting is not allowed without the authorization of the Committee. Mr. Mills noted that such requests made to the Committee have been denied.
- Council Members Merkt and Trolley. Past and Present Township Attorney Mills February 10, 2014 Towhnship Committee Meeting Minutes2016
a promise was made to residents that there would never be lights on the field and feels they should be respected.
- Council Member Mrs Thomas (August 8th 2016)Mayor Cioppettini explained the ordinance in place states that parks are open from dusk to dawn and should obey that.
- Mayor Cioppettini (August 8th 2016) February 10, 2014 Towhnship Committee Meeting Minutes -
2023
May 22, 2023 - Mendham Township Council approved a resolution permitting the installation of lighting at Mosle Preserve and potentially other parks within the Township. This decision marks a significant departure from the towns longstanding
Sunset Ordinance
, which has historically prohibited the use of Township parks after sunset; and therefore the use of lights. This unprecedented move raises questions about the Council's commitment to long held norms and the potential impact on the community's quality of life.
Many concerned residents have reminded the board about committments from previous mayor's, the township's attorney, and council members that lighting is not permitted and that a promise was made to the residents around Mosle the lights would never be allowed at the preserve.
For more information see Project Layout
Our Concerns
We are deeply concerned about various issues stemming from this project, particularly pertaining to traffic safety, the environmental impacts, and the preservation of our quiet residential neighborhood's open spaces and wildlife. Our worries extend to potential consequences such as increased light pollution, which could disrupt the natural balance, as well as the risks of water pollution and noise pollution. It is crucial that these concerns are taken into serious consideration before proceeding with the implementation of this project.
Join Us
We invite you to join us in our collective endeavor to safeguard the serity of Mosle Preserve and our community. By lending your voice, you can contribute to the preservation of this cherished area, ensuring that Mendham and its surrounding regions remain appealing to new residents and growing families. Let us uphold the commitments, traditions, and historic integrity that have defined this locality, ensuring its enduring beauty for generations to come. Together, we can make a difference and protect the essence of Mosle Preserve.