Ho-Ho-Kus September 23, 2009 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 3 Energy audit leaves borough with residual questions by Jennifer Crusco A recent energy audit has left Ho-Ho-Kus officials with additional questions about potential savings. At this month’s council work session, Ho-Ho-Kus Borough Administrator Don Cirulli reported that UREnergy of Fairfield had provided statistics that indicated the borough might be able to save energy and money through an energy efficient lighting upgrade. The buildings covered by this audit were borough hall, which includes police headquarters, the ambulance corps building, and the fire department; the public library; and the Ho-Ho-Kus Department of Public Works. According to the executive summary provided by UREnergy, Ho-Ho-Kus could potentially save 46,750 kilowatt hours for an annual savings of $8,415. The total project value is listed at $31,925, and the customer payment from savings is listed at $25,245. A state grant of $6,680 could also be applied. The monthly savings would be approximately $701, and the monthly savings payment would be $526 for a 48-month term. The borough’s payment to UREnergy would be made from the savings realized in energy costs. “What happens if the savings is not reached?” Councilman Gordon Hamm asked Cirulli. “I’ve done this in New York City and the rates go up, or other companies would not guarantee it.” Hamm cautioned Cirulli to proceed with care. Mayor Thomas Randall asked about the cost of the new replacement bulbs for the light fixtures, and Councilman Doug Troast asked if the borough could perform its own installation and get a rebate. Randall said the issue is something that would be considered further, and Cirulli said he would seek additional information from Public Service Electric & Gas. PSE&G was due to provide an audit at press time. “We are always looking for ways to save,” Cirulli told Villadom TIMES. After the council meeting, Hamm told Villadom TIMES he had pursued energy efficient options at a few dozen buildings in New York City through the Big Apple Program. He explained that a program representative came in to evaluate the existing lighting in those buildings, and calculated potential savings based on replacing light fixtures with new, energy efficient light bulbs, reflective materials, and an updated ballast and bulb system. However, Hamm said the program has not worked out as anticipated, because power company rates increase, the replacement of ballasts can be expensive, and sometimes replacement bulbs are unique and individuals are limited as to where they can obtain those bulbs. “You just have to do your homework,” Hamm continued. He said it is possible to realize some savings from the replacement program, but “usually not the number they quote.” He said it is particularly important to analyze the payback period and to recognize that there can be hurdles involved. Richard’s Run scheduled for October 4 On Sunday, Oct. 4, the Contemporary Club of Ho-HoKus will host the Sixth Annual Richard’s Run HHK 5K. Since the event was founded in 2003, Richard’s Run has become a tremendously successful community fundraiser for those affected by pediatric cancer. Last year, nearly 1,000 people participated in Richard’s Run to show their support of Go4theGoal Foundation. Go4theGoal Foundation is a local non-profit organization that was founded by Dr. Richard and Beth Stefanacci. The Stefanaccis lost their oldest son, Richard, Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Richard battled this disease until his passing at age 14 with great courage, strength, and a passion for living life to the fullest every day. Richard participated in the 5K in 2006, and his strength and adventurous spirit continue to inspire many. Cancer kills more children than any other disease, but childhood cancer research is under funded. The mission of the Go4theGoal Foundation is to help pediatric cancer patients and their families by providing financial assistance for day-to-day expenses as well as special requests. The Foundation will be directing the proceeds from Richard’s Run to benefit the many programs and oncology patients they support at Tomorrows Children’s Fund at Hackensack University Medical Center. For additional information about Richard’s Run and to register, visit online at www.HHK5K.com. American Window Factory Windows to Fit Any Budget! Go Green with Energy Star Windows! Don’t Miss Out on Your $1500 Tax Credit! For a Greener Lawn Next Spring… Sat 8-5 Major Credit Cards Accepted • www.homehardwaresupply.com Experience 30+ Years For a FREE Home Demo, Call 1(877) 778-0878 (201) 815-7999 Over 100,000 Windows Installed 201-652-5666 �������������������� ��������������������� ����������������� ������������������ ������������������ ������ �������������������� ����������������� ����������� ����������������� ���������������� ������� ������������������������������������������� ��������� ��������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������������������� ����������������� BAI’S TAE KWON DO ����������������������������������������������� 8 Week Program ������������������������������������������� $ ��������������������������������������� Includes Uniform Includes ���������������������������������� 195 1 FREE Trial Class Mon-Wed 7:30-6, Thurs & Fri 7:30-8 Sat 8-5 27 FRANKLIN TPKE, WALDWICK • 201-652-5666 OPEN SUNDAY 9-3 Ramsey • 201-327-7080 Bai’s Tae Kwon Do ����������������������������