Council Authorizes Baldwin House Purchase

The Tuesday night gave final approval to an ordinance authorizing the town's purchase of the historic Baldwin House at 460 S. Beverwyck Road. That action was one of the moves made during the business portion of the council's regular meeting.

Under the new ordinance, Business Administrator Jasmine Lim and Township Attorney John Inglesino will move forward to . The stated selling price for the home is $672,750, according to Lim. The money will come from the Open Space Trust Fund, a portion of which can be used for historic preservation.

Councilman John Cesaro reminded the audience that the use of open space funds means the project will require no tax increase.

The Baldwin House was built in 1820 and has been owned by the Smith-Baldwin family since American Revolution veteran Hiram Smith Jr. bought the home in 1831. 

Resident Roy Messmer expressed concern that the home will sit unused. Council President Michael dePierro stated that the worry is groundless.

"The garage is going to be used by the medical squad so they have shelter for their ambulances," he said. "The home is going to be used for meeting rooms and there is discussion that the could move into that space as well."

Answering Messmer's questions regarding the condition of the building, Mayor James Barberio offered reassurance.

"The house has a new oil burner, a new roof. The house is in immaculate shape," the mayor said. "It will be used for historical events too. We will reach out to civil war and historical groups. That house will be used."

The council approved two additional ordinances after their second readings. New No Parking Fire Zones will be established at 77 E. Halsey Road and at Arya International, 1571 Route 46.