Donald Trump may not want to be buried in Bedminster

• Trump National will host U.S. Women’s Open in 2017 and PGA Championship in 2022
• Officials raise worries about lights at paddle tennis facility

BEDMINSTER – Donald Trump may not want to spend eternity in New Jersey.

After Trump National Golf Club went through a lengthy approval process from the township and the state to build a family cemetery that would be the real estate magnate’s final resting place, a representative of the Trump Organization told the municipal Land Use Board last week that Trump may want to be buried in Florida.

Even if Trump decides to be buried elsewhere, The Trump Organization will go ahead with plans to build a cemetery with graves for club members and veterans, according to Ed Russo, a former township planning board chairman who now works for the Trump Organization.

“Mr. Trump does not need it yet,” Russo said.

Russo was appearing before the board last week to seek approval for the construction of a paddle-tennis facility at the club and for the relocation of a tee in preparation for one of the club’s two courses hosting the 2017 USGA Women’s Open and the 2022 PGA Championship.

Though there were few questions about the new tee on the 18th hole, board members expressed concern about the lights proposed for the four-court paddle-tennis facility that will be built next to the club’s equestrian facility near the eastern border of the property.

Russo said the equestrian facility, in the heart of the township’s horse country, has not seen a lot of use, though the club has more than eight miles of trails.

“I don’t understand it,” Russo said, adding that maybe members leave their horses at home.

Rob Moschello, the project engineer, said the courts, about 800 to 1,000 feet, will have 24 lights for play until 11 p.m.

Though the lights will be directed downward, some board members worried about their “glow,” especially in winter when the heated courts will receive the most use and nearby trees will not have leaves.

“Neighbors will see the lights,” said board Chairman Clair Martin III. “You’re talking about country life.”

“It’s a huge impact on the whole area,” said George Rodelius, a board member.

Russo told the board the club’s application was “fully compliant” with township regulations, including lighting standards.

“You can’t enforce a law that doesn’t exist,” Russo said.

Russo said the club will plant a buffer of spruce trees to shield the lights.

Russo said the change to the 18th tee was necessitated by the proposed addition of 60 to 70 yards to the 17th hole.

The club also received approval to convert a barn near the practice area into an indoor training facility that will allow golfers to practice and take lessons through the year.

The facility will have state-of-the-art equipment, including simulators, Russo said.

The board approved all of the club’s proposals.

Staff Writer Mike Deak: 908-243-6607; mdeak@mycentraljersey.com