Wyckoff September 22, 2010 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 7 Rambault Lake dwellers may form consortium by John Koster The substantial majority of Wyckoff residents whose houses surround Beekmere Pond – also known as Rambault Lake – have agreed in principle to form a coalition and subsidize the rebuilding of the now-crumbling dam that makes the lake possible. “If the present status continues, the DEP will breach the dam – they will leave it like that in a natural state,” said Ray Wiss, an attorney appointed to serve as moderator by the Wyckoff Township Committee. Last week’s meeting about the lake drew 17 of the 21 people whose Lakeview Drive homes face the lake, along with a dozen other residents. By show of hands, 14 of the 17 Lakeview Drive neighbors present volunteered to join a group to be formed in the next few weeks which would formally incorporate. They agreed to fund the replacement of the dam, now targeted for destruction by the Department of Environmental Protection if some decision is not reached. Another woman said she would pay but would not join because she envisioned credit complications if she belonged to a condominium-style organization. Tom Buda, a restoration advocate, said he carried three proxy votes with him from neighbors who could not be present, and added that two other neighbors said they would refuse to join. Four residents who live farther from the lake also stood up to be counted as potential supporters, while a half-dozen others did not. “Nothing is free in this world,” said Jonathan Strauss, who offered to pay, even though he does not live on Lakeview Drive. “The entire town is not going to pay for this.” Strauss said that since he derives enjoyment from the proximity of the lake, it was just and reasonable that he help pay for the new dam. However, he said that the residents from other parts of Wyckoff were not liable – a position heartily endorsed by the members of the township committee. Wyckoff Mayor Rudy Boonstra and U PICK PUMPKINS Celebrating 100 Years! Township Committeeman Christopher De Phillips remained firm on two key points: The dam would not be funded for through a general tax increase, since some residents benefit far more than others, and Wyckoff would not buy Beekmere Pond and assume maintenance responsibilities. “I don’t know that it’s fair to saddle taxpayers in other neighborhoods with any expenses for this project.” Mayor Boonstra said. “I sense no interest on the part of the governing body to take over Rambault Lake. I hear no thought at all of the desire to own the property. Are you with me, guys?” They were. “Everyone here wants to save the lake and get the dam done,” De Phillips said “We’re at the point now where we want to fix the dam, and find put how to finance it.” (continued on page 8) Secor• Mahwah, NJ 07430 Farms 85 Airmont Ave 201-529-2595 secorfarms.com HAYRIDES Sat. & Sun, 10:00-4:00, Large & Small Corn Mazes, Small Petting Zoo ��������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������� ������������������������� ����������������������������� ������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������� WE HAVE MOVED TO OUR NEW LOCATION! 9-22-10 JOAN/JANINE SecorFarmsPumpkins3x3Color(9-22-10) 3x3” Rev1 ������������������������������������������ �������������������������������������� ������������ ��������������������������� ���������������������� ����� ��������� 266 Harristown Rd, Suite 102, Glen Rock GLEN ROCK PLAZA 201.345.5621 LASER & COSMETIC DENTISTRY FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY FULL SERVICE DENTAL CARE • Orthodontics • Invisalign (Invisible Braces) • Porcelain Veneers • Implants • Teeth Whitening • Oral Cancer Screening • Periodontal Treatment Mayra Modesto-Garrido D.D.S We Offer Line Of Credits And Financing Plans Free Consultation • We Accept Most Dental Insurance We Offer Oral Sedation