UPPER FREEHOLD: Court settles fire service cost dispute

By Jane Meggitt, Special Writer
   The long-running dispute between Allentown and Upper Freehold over fire protection costs has finally come to an end.
   On July 7, the Superior Court of New Jersey, Monmouth County, issued a consent order of settlement and dismissal regarding litigation brought by Upper Freehold against Allentown concerning funding of Hope Fire Company, which services both municipalities. The township filed suit against the borough nearly three years ago on July 14, 2011.
   In its complaint, Upper Freehold alleged that Allentown had not increased its financial contribution for fire services since 2003, and had not signed a shared services agreement for fire protection since 2005. In 2010, Upper Freehold paid for approximately 82 percent of fire services costs, while Allentown paid 18 percent.
   According to the consent order, Allentown agrees to pay Upper Freehold the sum of $175,000 on or before Dec. 15. The parties agree to enter into a shared services agreement for providing fire protection in the borough and township, as authorized by state law. Upper Freehold is designated as the “lead agency,” and the parties will share all costs associated with the provision of fire protection as of July 7, with the agreed-upon percentage of Upper Freehold paying 72.5 percent and 27.5 percent for Allentown.
   The order states that Upper Freehold’s counsel will present a proposed form of a shared services agreement to Allentown. The borough retains the right to object to any provisions of the agreement other than designation of the township of lead agency and the percentage of costs payable. If the borough and township cannot agree as to the form of the shared services agreement, the matter will go to binding arbitration, according to the order.
   ”The parties hereto agree and acknowledge that this is intended to be a general, complete, and global resolution and release of all claims against each other,” according to the order.
   Upper Freehold Township Committeeman Steve Alexander said the decision “is in the best interests of township residents.”
   Mayor Lorisue Horsnall Mount said she is glad there is closure.