Politics & Government

New Fence Could Bar Revenue Source for Board of Ed

Hasbrouck Heights Board of Education continues to pursue the idea of signage at Depken Field as a way to generate some revenue however borough officials say signs on the new fence may upset neighbors.

Now that the new fence is up at the Franklin Avenue side of Depken Athletic Field the Board of Education  wishes to pursue the sale of signs at the field however there are challenges involved with the revenue-generating idea.

Years ago the borough gave the Hasbrouck Heights Board of Education the nod to go ahead to sell signs at the field but the district never pursued it at that time.  Over the past year or so talks have resumed as the current Board of Education believes this could be a good way of generating additional revenue for the district.

Tuesday night at the council meeting Board of Ed trustee Mark Nazarro raised the possibility once again after thanking the borough for the new fence. Through discussion with borough officials and the borough’s attorney it appears that hanging signs from the decorative fence may not be easily accepted by those in the neighborhood. 

Find out what's happening in Hasbrouck Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Mayor Rose Heck commented that neighbors are likely to give them flack for hanging signs on the inner side of the decorative fence. Original plans called for a screen-like type fencing however residents in the area came forward with a petition stating they wanted to see the view of the field therefore the borough chose the decorative design.

Borough Attorney Ralph Chandless stated that he would look into the ordinance once again to see what is allowed. Officials believed the area designated for signage would be the inside back wall however Nazzarro pointed out the foliage in front of it would interfere with the visibility of the signs.

Find out what's happening in Hasbrouck Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Police Chief Michael Colaneri reiterated that the outside of the fence which borders Route 17 is not recommended as it could be a distraction to drivers coming off the highway.

Prior discussion on this issue included other options the Board could explore such as hanging signs from light posts or putting up a portable fence which could feature signage.

Borough Engineer Ken Job updated all on the field improvement next steps, which include a pavilion for the snack bar area, walkways and a paved area near the Franklin Avenue side for EMS vehicles, will take place in the spring before track season begins. 

See related stories

Field Fence Work Has Begun

Fence Won't Block Residents' View Of Field

Depken Field Sign Discussion Continues Between Borough and School District

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