By Jennifer Jean Miller
November 12, 2009

Andover Township – Tension between various members of the township committee, and between the committee and the public, is growing so that regardless of the topic, conflict is a constant. The business of running the township, however, moved along at this week’s meeting despite the lack of harmony.

Andover’s Economic Development Advisory Committee is working on new strategies to encourage commerce. Chairperson Rick Melfi said the group is looking for various opportunities to participate in growing the town’s business development.

He said the committee will discuss Newton-Sparta Road’s community business zone near Drake’s Pond in January and will work closely with the township committee on that and the town’s economic development zone.

One area, for example, is the planned small light rail station which will provide service to New York City. Melfi said the committee will try to attract business interests there.

He said work is underway at the former D’Angelos, which is becoming a large farmers’ market, owned by Lentini. “This will be a shining spot in the town,” said Melfi.

He also reported the vacancies on Newton-Sparta Road will be filled.

The committee is working on an interactive Web site similar to one created by Sparta Township.

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