Letter to the Editor: Wyckoff's Future Looks Bright

To the Editor: 

Mark Twain once said,  "If you don't like the weather in New England, wait a minute." If we could ask Mr. Twain today for an observation about Wyckoff, he might say, "If you don't like the way it looks now, wait a minute."

Unfortunately, Wyckoff has been as ever-changing as the New England weather during the past 30 years, and not all good. We've seen farms disappear, 18^th-century homes razed, a ravine compromised by development and a less than aesthetic shopping center renovation. Over the years, our various Township Committees and their boards granted variances as often as…well…clouds pass in front of the sun. These variances only resulted in losing faith in our town's decision-makers regarding Wyckoff's future. But skies are turning brighter!

In 2006, residents had the opportunity to vote for and passed the first Open Space referendum, thanks to the diligence of the newly formed environmental group, Friends of Wyckoff. Although the Township Committee opposed the placement of an Open Space referendum on the ballot that year, Friends of Wyckoff initiated a petition drive to ensure voters had the opportunity to vote for that Open Space Trust Fund.

In January 2010, our current governing body was able to submit an application to purchase Russell Farms and recently received $1.8 million in Open Space funds for the purchase of this property, in part, because Wyckoff now has this Open Space fund. This is surely a step in the right direction to preserve Wyckoff as the "Garden Town" as it was originally perceived.

Another recent "climate" change is the seemingly genuine concern for historic preservation and open space by our current Township Committee. The Master Plan was up for re-examination this year, and for the first time residents were asked for input through a transparent forum. As a result, a historical element will be part of the Master Plan. This will include support for homeowners who wish to seek grants and low-interest loans for historic restoration and maintenance. An inventory of current historic homes as well as potential homes is also included in the plan. The Township Committee has also implemented the removal of affordable housing from Maple Lake, which is an important step to preserve it.

Lastly, I am encouraged that the Township Committee is ready to seek Sustainable Jersey certification. Several surrounding towns already participate in this voluntary program, which provides access to grants to save tax dollars by "going green." This includes reducing energy consumption and increasing recycling. I commend Committeeman Brian Scanlan for encouraging Wyckoff to join Sustainable Jersey last November and to our current governing body and Environmental Commission for finally recognizing its importance.

This year is turning out to be an especially important one for the residents of Wyckoff. Just as we save our pennies for a rainy day, parts of Wyckoff should be preserved for future generations. Thinking about preserving—taking action to preserve—the character of Wyckoff and its history is a big step forward for our governing body.

Mark Twain also said, "A great deal has been said about the weather, but very little has been done." Let's not just talk about doing something to preserve Wyckoff, let's work together to take positive steps now to preserve our town for the future. Ah, sunny days are here again.

Linda Vreeland

chair, Friends Of Wyckoff