Millstone committee looks to preserve farmland

Would acquire development rights for 69.6-acre farm on Backbone Hill Road.

By: Frank C. D’Amico
   MILLSTONE — The township is in the process of acquiring the development rights to another piece of property for preservation purposes.
   At its March 7 meeting, the Township Committee introduced an ordinance that would acquire the rights to a farm on Backbone Hill Road for $1.1 million.
   The township plans to get state Farmland Preservation Program reimbursement for the 69.6-acre piece owned by James Rocco Valerio.
   Mayor Evan Maltz said the Valerio property will remain a farm.
   In December, the committee acquired 165 acres of land on Prodelin Way for open space.
   A public hearing on the ordinance will be held at the next committee meeting, 8 p.m. March 21.