October 23, 2013 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 9 Ho-Ho-Kus Eagle candidate plans improvements at 9/11 memorial by Jennifer Crusco An Eagle Scout candidate’s plan to install a walkway and bench at the 9/11 memorial site at Ho-Ho-Kus Bor- ough Hall has elicited a positive response from the coun- cil. Charles Basralian of Troop 54 advised Mayor Thomas Randall and the council members that his goal is to high- light and enhance the area. Basralian said the memorial site is obscure, and people might tend to walk or drive by it without taking notice. The Scout explained that he would like to improve the visual appeal of the site, and add up-lights that would draw attention to the monu- ments. He indicated that he wants to install a curved walk that would lead to a circular area in front of the monuments. A stone bench would be added within that circle. Basralian said he is working with a landscape archi- tect, and explained that he plans to use brickholds to keep the brick pavers contained in the desired shapes. He noted that the project would include excavation, a sub- grade of gravel, a base of sand, and the bricks. Councilwoman Maryellen Lennon noted that a lot of work would be involved in preparing the site and ensur- ing that the walkway is level. Basralian responded that, in addition to working with the landscape architect, he would also be assisted by a builder and an electrician. “It seems like a very noble endeavor,” Lennon added. Don Cirulli, the borough administrator, questioned whether this project would need to be reviewed by the zoning board or the zoning official. Basralian said he had already contacted the borough’s zoning authorities. Councilman Phil Rorty asked if the Scout had talked with the department of public works. He recommended that Basralian have the DPW look at the plans, noting that the DPW workers will have to drive their lawnmow- ers over the walkway when they maintain the lawn at borough hall. Mayor Randall asked if Basralian had samples of the colors and materials he planned to use. Basralian responded that he did not, but said the materials would match the municipal building. Councilman Steve Shell pointed out that the electrical element of the project would have to tie into the borough’s facilities. Basralian acknowledged Shell’s statement, noting that there is a box around the corner. Councilman Kevin Shea asked how much time Bas- ralian would need. “It depends on when I start,” the Scout responded, noting that the process has gone smoothly so far. He estimated that he would need about two weeks for the installation. He acknowledged that the excavation pro- cess, which will require the removal of four to six inches of soil along the course of the walkway, would be a labor- intensive effort. Shell asked where Basralian would place the fill from the project. The Scout said it would be transported off site. “I think it’s a great project, but I have one concern,” said resident Stanley Kober. He said the tree near the monuments is lit at Christmas. He pointed out that chil- dren tend to run around the tree, and commented that if the up-lights protrude, they might break. Randall said the dual use of the area would have to be addressed. He added that Basralian’s concept is a good idea and would be an enhancement. “It’s a lovely idea,” Councilwoman Kim Weiss added. She recommended that Basralian contact the two bor- ough families whose loved ones, Neil Shastri and Richard “Woody” Woodwell, are memorialized at the 9/11 site to explain his plans for improving the area. Randall agreed, saying Weiss’ suggestion would be a nice gesture.