JACKSON – The Township Council has adopted an ordinance amending Jackson’s lease agreement with the Cornerstone Presbyterian Church.
Council President Ken Bressi, Vice President Rob Nixon and Councilman Scott Martin voted to adopt the ordinance at the governing body’s Aug. 14 meeting. Councilwoman Ann Updegrave and Councilman Barry Calogero were absent.
Jackson owns the building that is known as the historic Harmony Church, 69 Harmony Road. In 2014, municipal officials entered into a lease agreement with the Cornerstone Presbyterian Church to use the structure for religious services and related community activities. The lease runs for 15 years, with an option to renew for two additional 10-year periods, through 2049.
Jackson officials sought to amend the lease in regard to insurance. The amended ordinance states that “at all times during the term of this lease, tenant (the church), at its sole cost, shall obtain property insurance for both the leasehold improvements made by the tenant, as well as landlord’s building, in an amount not less than $400,000. The insurance proceeds for any property loss under this addendum shall be payable to the tenant.”
In other business, the council introduced a bond ordinance that provides for capital improvements and the acquisition of capital equipment. The council will appropriate $507,960 and authorize the issuance of $483,771 in bonds to finance the costs. The council will provide a $24,189 down payment.
A second bond ordinance that was introduced provides for road, drainage and sidewalk improvements. The council will appropriate $1.625 million and authorize the issuance of $1.625 million in bonds to finance the costs.
The public hearings and votes regarding the two bond ordinances are scheduled for the council’s meeting on Sept. 11.