Panel’s recommendations designed to protect the rights of both riders and homeowners.
By: Melissa Edmond
One of last year’s biggest headaches for the Township Committee the use of all-terrain vehicles may be closer to being resolved, as the committee takes up discussion at Tuesday’s meeting on an ordinance proposed by an advisory committee on the issue.
The seven-member All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Advisory Committee established in May will present a report of its recommendations for ATV use in Hillsborough at the committee meeting.
The members say their recommendations will protect the rights of riders and homeowners, according to township officials.
The group will present a proposed ordinance they unanimously agreed on, which includes a buffer zone that allows ATV enthusiasts the right to ride on private property while respecting the rights of homeowners whose dwelling is within 450 feet of the riding area.
The committee, which has two members for, two members against, and one member neutral to ATV use, includes Chairman Blair Meiser, Tom Kelly, Michael Cascio, Rick Rizzon and Anthony Risoli. Bob Hollingshead served as Parks Commission liaison and Louise Wilkins was liaison from the Open Space Advisory Committee.
The group held eight meetings during the year starting in June.
"I’m very pleased that both sides were able to come together, share their thoughts, ideas and suggestions, and formulate draft ordinances that protect the rights of the riders as well as their neighbors," said Mr. Meiser. "It’s a win-win for all. And I thank the team for their hard work, especially listening to each other and being open to new ideas."
According to township officials, the committee met with various officials including Police Chief Robert Gazaway, Township Attorney Albert Cruz, and township insurance advisor, regarding ATV use. The members also reviewed noise standards from other towns, court opinions, and information from the Society of Automotive Engineers on noise standards.
"This group truly did their homework," said Committeeman Anthony Ferrera, liaison to the Advisory Committee. "They did an impressive amount of research and worked toward finding a compromise solution that is in the interest of the people of Hillsborough."
A group of irate residents persuaded the Township Committee to postpone enacting an ordinance that would have set strict limits on the use of ATVs on private property in Hillsborough at a Sept. 14, 2004, committee meeting. The committee planned to introduce the ordinance to force ATV operators to keep at least 200 feet from their neighbor’s property line unless the adjacent property owner gave his or her written consent after receiving complaints from several homeowners.
The Township Committee members decided to table the issue until the ATV committee could study various options for ATV use and determine the limits, if any, that should be established in the township.

