MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MINUTES
February 24, 2026 6:00 P.M.
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CALL TO ORDER
SALUTE TO COLORS
Mayor Wronko invited all those present to stand in a salute to the colors.
MAYOR’S STATEMENT AS TO COMPLIANCE WITH P.L. 1975
Adequate Notice of this Meeting has been provided according to the Open Public Meetings Act, Assembly Bill 1030. Notice of this Meeting was included in the Annual Meeting Notice sent to the New Jersey Herald and the Daily Record on January 7, 2026, and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building.
Furthermore, notice of the change in meeting time was sent to the New Jersey Herald and the Daily Record on February 18, 2026 and was placed on the official bulletin board in the Municipal Building.
In the event the Mayor and Council have not addressed all items on this Agenda by 10:00 PM and they are of the opinion that they cannot complete the Agenda in a reasonable time period, the Mayor and Council may exercise their option to continue this meeting at an agreed to date, time and place. Please turn off all cell phones for the duration of this Meeting.
ROLL CALL
Council Members:
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Smith– present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Simpson – present
Councilman Wachterhauser – present
Mayor Wronko – present
CITIZEN’S TO BE HEARD
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Justin Danneker, Boy Scout Troop #91, stated his Eagle Scout Project is complete. The American Legion is storing the corn hole boards. Justin asked when the Borough would be picking up the boards which will be installed at Dell Road Park. Justin also stated that he has funds left over from his project. Mayor Wronko stated Councilman Simpson had explained to him previously that the additional funds left over could be given to the Borough or the funds can be given to the next Boy Scout that has an Eagle Scout Project to complete. Justin confirmed this. Mayor Wronko asked the governing body if the funds should be given to the next Eagle Scout. The governing body unanimously agreed for the funds to go to the next Eagle Scout Project. Mayor Wronko stated once the weather is suitable, the DPW will pick up the boards. Juana Danneker, Justin’s mother, stated that Justin will be happy to help install the boards.
Rich Perry stated he received his appraisal letter which stated the estimated taxes for next year. Mr. Perry stated his letter indicates his taxes will be reduced, however, the other budgets still need to be accounted for. He asked why he is being teased like this. The number is irrelevant because it still needs to be proved. This gets people rallied up one way or the other, but you will not know until the tax bills come. Mayor Wronko stated the letter does explain that there are other variables.
Seeing no one further from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Wronko read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
January 6, 2026 Reorganization Meeting
January 13, 2026 Work Session & Agenda Meeting
January 27, 2026 Business Meeting & Closed Session
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and carried by a majority voice vote, the minutes were approved. Councilman Thornton abstained from the minutes of January 13th and 27th.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Simpson and unanimously carried by voice vote, the list of correspondence was accepted and ordered placed on file.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Council Committee Reports were waived.
Public Safety – Councilman Wachterhauser/Councilman Riccardi
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilman Thornton
Community Development – Councilman Smith/Councilman Simpson
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Romano
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Wachterhauser
Boards/Commissions – Councilman Simpson/Councilman Smith
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
February 22-23 Storm Update – Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW crew did a great job keeping roads cleared during the recent snow storm. There were no injuries and no equipment issues. With the rising temperatures, final clean up is going well. More snow is in the forecast for tomorrow and early next week. The DPW is prepared for this.
Fire Department / Ladder Truck Damage – Administrator McNeilly stated there was a house fire earlier this month and due to the harsh operating conditions, there was damage caused to the ladder and deck gun when the ladder froze in the up position. The insurance claim has been initiated. The repair quote is approximately $15,000. There is additional equipment being reviewed for repair, which includes a light and some other items.
HUD Water Tower Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated he and Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, had a long conference call with the representative for the HUD Water Tower Grant. The worksheet submission has been completed, and it now moves to department review. Once that is complete, the Borough should receive the very important award letter. Over the next month or so, the geo-technical work award will begin and the initial design work. The hope is to be able to go out to bid by the fall of this year.
Easter Egg Hunt – Administrator McNeilly stated the Recreation Committee is planning the annual Easter Egg Hunt for March 28th with a rain date of March 29th. Administrator McNeilly asked the governing body for permission to close Musconetcong Avenue at the park during the event. Mayor Wronko took a straw poll asking for approval to close Musconetcong Avenue at the park during the Easter Egg Hunt event. The results are as follows: Councilman Romano – yes; Councilman Simpson – yes; Councilman Riccardi – yes; Councilman Thornton – yes; Councilman Wachterhauser – yes; and Councilman Smith. Approval was granted.
Clean Communities – Administrator McNeilly stated a request has been made asking the governing body to consider increasing the stipend provided to non-profits that attend the annual clean up day. The current amount that the groups receive is $200 per group. This amount has remained the same for well over ten (10) years, perhaps as long as fifteen (15) years. The governing body is being asked to consider raising the amount to $275 – $300 per group. The funds are provided through the Clean Communities trust and is not a budget item. Angelica Sabatini, CFO, present in the audience stated there are funds in the trust from the past few years. Administrator McNeilly stated the grant is used for tools like the brushes for the street sweeper etc. Mayor Wronko asked if a maximum number should be determined based on how many groups may participate. Councilman Thornton asked how many groups traditionally participate. Councilman Riccardi stated there are usually three (3) to four (4) groups at the clean-up. Administrator McNeilly stated that even if there is a year where eight (8) groups participate, there is enough funding to cover the cost.
Mayor Wronko took a straw poll asking the governing body for approval to provide $300 to each group that participates in the clean up day and meets the criteria. The results are as follows: Councilman Romano – yes; Councilman Simpson – yes; Councilman Riccardi – yes; Councilman Thornton – yes; Councilman Wachterhauser – abstained; Councilman Smith – yes. The governing body approved the $300 stipend.
Deskpro – Administrator McNeilly stated the required documentation to allow the Borough to process a payment to Deskpro has finally been received.
Budget 2026 Timeline – Administrator McNeilly stated the budget introduction is tentatively scheduled to take place on March 10th. The capital budget introduction is tentative for March 24th. The second reading and public hearing for the budget is tentatively scheduled for April 14th. This keeps the Borough in compliance with the State.
Snow Removal – Councilman Thornton stated there have been complaints from the residents at the bottom of Elizabeth Avenue regarding how quickly the mayor’s street is taken care of. Councilman Thornton asked if priority is given to that street. Administrator McNeilly stated no priority is given and every road in town is important. The methodology for the plowing of the roads has been consistent for many years, not just the last two winters or since the advent of social media. Plowing is done in sections. The section with Elizabeth Avenue puts it in a consistent rotation similar to all the other streets. Elizabeth Avenue is a very steep street along with Port Morris, Spring Street and Central Avenue. The steep streets are located throughout the community. A white road is not an impassable road though it could be challenging. Cars today, traction control and four-wheel drive far exceed anything that was driven in the 50’s, 60’s or 70’s and we never had a complaint from Elizabeth Avenue stating they were neglected. Councilman Thornton asked if it would make more sense to have the steeper roads in each section plowed more often due to the fact they are harder to navigate if the road is white. Administrator McNeilly stated he can pass on the concern but there are no promises or assurances that the surface is going to be black, or that it may not be slippery. The road could turn white while the other streets are being plowed. Councilman Thornton stated the area along Main Street was done very well during this past storm.
Missing County Guardrail on Brooklyn Road – Councilman Riccardi asked Administrator McNeilly if he has heard from the County regarding when the guardrail that is missing will be replaced. Administrator McNeilly stated he does not have an update at this time.
Crosswalk Sign by Little League Field – Councilman Riccardi asked for the status on the repair of the crosswalk sign by the Little League Field. Administrator McNeilly stated the sign itself may not look great, because it had been stuck underneath a vehicle, but it is functioning.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (Planner William Hamilton)
Mayor Wronko invited William Hamilton, Borough Planner, to come forward to present his report.
Mr. Hamilton stated he received comments from Councilman Riccardi on Friday. Mr. Hamilton stated he responded by email today regarding those comments. The first three items were more typographical issues related to the 2010 Census Data, and it should be 2020. This was a quality control issue that occurred back in June and that was fixed. Mr. Hamilton stated, with regard to the mapping, specifically on Area 2, originally a number of lots in Area 2 were included that would receive the overlay zone for residential use. That acreage was 8.8. A larger area was then incorporated, which had not been included before, due to the sewer and slope issues. The council decided this was not appropriate and did not want to move in that direction, so this has been changed back to the original. However, in the original, the entire lots were not included that were part of the frontage along Route 206. It was determined that it was important to define those lots not just because of their distance to the highway. We took roughly 250 linear feet, but it was decided to include those whole lots. The reason for this is, for example, in Area 6, where there is the high density residential, although the requirement is 10 units per acre, it was determined there would only be a certain amount of units for that site based upon some conceptual plans that were done by the contract purchaser and also the site topography and other environmental constraints. This theory was applied to Area 2. This does not change the number at all. The same density remains of 22 units per acre. The reason that the density was not increased even though the area increased was because of the smaller lots that they believe will be developed along the highway. This will give them the ability to get the density. For example, if someone comes in with a 2 acre or 1 acre lot, they would have the same density. Councilman Riccardi stated he is confused with the first one, as stated in his email, which had 8.8 acres with a density of 15 units with, theoretically, 26.4 affordable units. The second larger one, which was determined to be not appropriate, was 49 acres at 22 units per acre for a total of 200 units with 40 affordable units. The third one is at 20 acres, with a density still at 22 units with 200 units with 40 affordable units. Councilman Riccardi asked how is it possible to fit that density with same number of units and the same number of affordable units on less than half the acreage? Mr. Hamilton stated with the original, there were 15 units per acre. That was when he had proposed commercial on the first floor and residential above. In speaking with the Land Use Board and the Council, the decision was made to try to maximize the residential to be more like Area 3 in terms of development. This would allow for a three-story building with all residential units and no commercial space. This is when the number went from 15 units to 22 units. Councilman Riccardi asked if with that the number of units can it still provide for 200 units and 40 affordable units? Mr. Hamilton confirmed this to be the case. Councilman Riccardi stated full lots are being utilized instead of partial lots. Mr. Hamilton confirmed this and stated this gives the developers some flexibility, because although some of that area is not in the sewer service area now, it does not mean it cannot be developed. It just means that units cannot be put in those areas. This will give flexibility to the design. Councilman Thornton asked for confirmation that this does not extend into the lots which were discussed at the last meeting which are not to be included. Mr. Hamilton confirmed this.
Mr. Hamilton stated he also submitted a revised spending plan and marketing plan based upon comments from the Council at the last meeting. Mr. Hamilton stated he appreciates the review of the document which was done by the Council. Councilman Smith stated on page 7 of the Spending Plan, the total revenue is listed as $49,000 and the interest of $1,500 is listed separately. However, on page 3 the $1,500 in interest is included in the calculated total for revenue to get to $49,000. Otherwise, the total would be $47,500 for the development fees. The numbers do not match. Mr. Hamilton stated Councilman Smith is correct and it should have been included. Councilman Smith stated that would make the total amount of revenue $111,000 on page 3.
Administrator McNeilly stated, in reference to Councilman Thornton’s previous question, on page 13 (Fair Share Plan) it states the overlay map of six areas listed below for residential development with a 20% affordable housing set-aside, Area 2 calls out blocks 1 through 10 plus 7.01, 9.01, 9.02 and 11. Lot 11 was a big part of the discussion which took place two weeks ago. Councilman Riccardi stated the map has been changed but not the text. Administrator McNeilly stated that is his concern. Mr. Hamilton stated he was under the impression this had been changed but Administrator McNeilly is correct that the verbiage needs to be changed to eliminate Lot 11. The map has been updated. Administrator McNeilly asked, with Lot 11 out of play, does this change any of the other numbers in the statement for Area 2? This would change the amount of acreage and the density. Mr. Hamilton stated the density does not change. It is still 22 units per acre. Administrator McNeilly stated the available number would change and the total affordable would drop. Mr. Hamilton stated the total of affordable units would remain the same in Area 2. The 200 units remains the same with or without the extra acreage. Administrator McNeilly stated then the density would increase. Mr. Hamilton replied the density would not go up. Administrator McNeilly stated the acreage for Lot 11 is 31.4 acres which is more than double the size of the remaining acreage that stays in play. Councilman Wachterhauser stated, for the amended Area 2, the map shows 20.3 acres, the density is 22 units per acre, with a projected 200 units of which 40 are affordable units. Administrator McNeilly asked if by taking Lot 11 out of the statement, does the rest of the statement remain the same? Mr. Hamilton confirmed this. Attorney Leo asked if 20.5 should be changed to 20.3. Councilman Thornton stated the report now needs to be changed which means the ordinance has to be changed. Attorney Leo confirmed the report must be changed and she will check the ordinance. Mr. Hamilton stated he is of the opinion that the ordinance does not need to be changed but he will check. Borough Clerk, Ellen Horak, stated the ordinance was introduced at the last meeting. It is not on tonight’s agenda. Ms. Horak provided Attorney Leo with a copy of the ordinance to review. Attorney Leo read through the ordinance and stated it is correct and Lot 11 is not included in the ordinance.
Councilman Riccardi stated, on page 7 of the Spending Plan, last time the $50,000 was missing. The $50,000 is included now but the calculation is incorrect. It shows the amount as $87,768 but the correct amount is $88,268. Mr. Hamilton confirmed the figure should be $88,268.
Councilman Riccardi stated, in the Rehabilitation Program Operating Manual, he mentioned last time that this was referencing the third round of COAH, N.J.A.C. 5:97-9, on Page 6 which is incorrect. Mr. Hamilton stated this does not change the numbers. Councilman Riccardi stated the document cannot reference the incorrect information. Councilman Riccardi asked if this should reference the relevant affordability controls or >>>>>>> and should both of them be included? Attorney Leo stated she will check on this.
Administrator McNeilly stated, for the record, all references, written description, map description, and calculations should exclude Lot 11 in that zone as directed by the governing body on February 10th. This is very important. Attorney Leo stated this has been set forth within the ordinance as noted. Administrator McNeilly stated there cannot be any ambiguities. Lot 11 is not to be included, and it is to be purged from all documents.
Councilman Riccardi stated, as he mentioned at the last meeting, on Page 4 of the Operating Manual, the reference under Income Limits needs to reference the DCA, not the Affordable Dispute Resolution Program. Mr. Hamilton stated he will make that adjustment.
Councilman Smith stated, in the Fair Share Plan on Page 10, the document, under Employment Characteristics, is still referencing a table which is not there, Table 5 which is the unit breakdown. That sentence needs to be removed. Mr. Hamilton stated the Table 5 reference will be removed.
Councilman Thornton stated the revised Housing & Fair Share Plan that we just received now has to be revised again and he asked if this is hurting the timeframe. Attorney Leo stated the Fair Share Plan has to go to the Land Use Board for consideration and adoption and then back to the Mayor and Council for adoption. Ellen Horak, Borough Clerk, stated the Land Use Board meeting will be held on March 9th. Mayor Wronko asked if the resolutions which were tabled at the last Mayor and Council meeting will have to be tabled again this evening. Mr. Hamilton asked when the next meeting is scheduled for the Mayor and Council. Ms. Horak stated the meeting will be on March 10th. Mr. Hamilton stated that he will get the revised plan to the governing body by next week and there will be sufficient time to review the documents. Ms. Horak stated the Land Use Board needs the document sooner as their meeting packets are sent to them prior to their meeting. Councilman Wachterhauser asked Mr. Hamilton if he could provide the documents by the end of this week. Mr. Hamilton confirmed he will provide them by the end of this week.
Lenape Valley Regional High School Senior Awards – Mayor Wronko stated correspondence has been received regarding senior awards for students at Lenape Valley Regional High School. Mayor Wronko asked if there is any history available with regard to senior awards. Ms. Horak stated there is a $100 award for Stanhope School but not for the high school. Mayor Wronko asked the governing body for their input on providing the same award amount for the high school. Administrator McNeilly stated that the award for the Stanhope School student is received by a Stanhope resident. An award given at the high school may not be received by a Stanhope resident. Discussion took place regarding options. It was suggested putting a stipulation that the scholarship could only be for a Stanhope resident. However, if other municipalities do the same and the amounts are different, that would not be good. If the other municipalities are participating perhaps, it would be one award from all the municipalities. Administrator McNeilly asked Mayor Wronko to forward the correspondence to him, and he will contact the Administrators from the other towns to find out whether or not they are participating in providing funds toward an award.
Environmental Commission’s Request for a Student Liaison – Councilman Riccardi stated the Environmental Commission has provided a sample resolution from Sparta regarding a student liaison position to the Environmental Commission. Councilman Riccardi asked if the Environmental Commission could accept a student liaison that resides in another town due to the fact the high school is regional or would the position have to be filled by a Stanhope resident. Attorney Leo stated either is an option. The governing body would have to decide. Councilman Riccardi stated the position being open to any student would provide a way to fill the position if there is not a Stanhope student interested in the position. This would be for a high school student, and they would be a non-voting member of the commission. The goal is to get the students involved. Administrator McNeilly suggested that if more than one student is interested, they could all be part of the ad-hoc, non-voting committee. Mayor Wronko asked if any of the council members were opposed. There were no oppositions.
Hometown Heroes Banner Program – Councilman Wachterhauser stated he is hoping to wrap up orders at the end of the week. The order will be placed so that the banners will all be received by Memorial Day. Councilman Wachterhauser stated he was able to get information from the widow of Sgt. Garrett Mongrella. The American Legion will be sponsoring this banner. Sgt Mongrella was killed in action during the Gulf War. The American Legion is also sponsoring another banner for Corpsman Lou Pearce who was killed in action during Vietnam.
2026 Municipal Budget – Mayor Wronko thanked Angelica Sabatini, CFO, for attending tonight’s meeting and invited her forward to discuss the 2026 budget.
Water Utility OE (Page 13C) – Mayor Wronko stated Line 60550025 Heating Fuel-Well #2 is reduced by 92% and he asked if the amount of $100 is sufficient. Ms. Sabatini stated the DPW Superintendent made this change. There was nothing charged to this line item in 2025. Administrator McNeilly stated there is a large oil tank at Well #2 and oil is used to heat Well #2, the records room, and the public works building. No changes were made.
Water Utility OE 2 (Page 13D) – Mayor Wronko asked why Line 60550051 Printing/Advertising has increased 700%. Ms. Sabatini stated it may have to do with the printing of the Water Quality Reports. Councilman Riccardi stated the reports are sent out every year, but no expenditures are provided for 2024 or 2025. Administrator McNeilly will get the answers to these questions, and he will email the governing body. Councilman Riccardi asked why Line 60550061 Contracts/PWT Tax increased from $1,000 to $2,400 and less than half of what was budgeted last year was used. Ms. Sabatini stated that is the estimate that the DPW Superintendent anticipates the water tax to be for 2026. Administrator McNeilly was asked to check this line number. Councilman Smith stated Line #60550081 Prof Training/Education was not used last year but the amount is increasing for this year. Administrator McNeilly stated there are employees attending water school and there is a new employee who will begin attending training this year. Councilman Riccardi stated Line #60550071 Engineering Services has increased and asked what the anticipated costs are for. Ms. Sabatini stated work on the new water tower will be done this year. Administrator McNeilly stated there will be items for the water tower project that will not be covered by the grant. No changes were made.
Water Utility Other Expenses (Page 13E) – Ms. Sabatini stated this page lists the capital improvement, debt and statutory expenditures. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough is in the middle of a four (4) year rate adjustment. Ms. Sabatini stated when the Auditors did the rate study, they did not anticipate that the health care insurance costs would increase 36%. Ms. Sabatini stated she is of the opinion that another conversation is going to be necessary at the end of the year. Administrator McNeilly stated this was unavoidable. No changes were made.
Sewer Utility OE (Page 14C) – Councilman Smith asked why Line #62550021 Departmental Supplies is increasing by $13,000. Administrator McNeilly stated he will contact the DPW Superintendent to obtain the backup documentation for the increase. Mayor Wronko asked why the budget for Line #62550042 Generator Repair/Maint is being doubled and why there are no expenditures listed for 2024 or 2025. Ms. Sabatini stated the charges may have been charged in the water budget. Mayor Wronko asked why Line #62550041 2016 Sewer Jet Trailer has an increase of 150%. Administrator McNeilly stated the sewer jet is ten (10 years old. The newest generator is located at Wells #3 and #4 and that is approaching ten (10) years old. A lot of the costs are driven by age. The contract is through the Morris County Co-op and like everything else, that cost is increasing. Councilman Riccardi asked if there are issues with the generators that need to be repaired. Ms. Sabatini stated the Borough does have a maintenance contract for the generators and they are serviced four times a year. If repairs are required, they are done at that time. Councilman Riccardi asked Ms. Sabatini to find out if those charges are being charged somewhere else and what those actual charges are. Councilman Riccardi asked Administrator McNeilly if the sewer jet has issues that need to be fixed. Administrator McNeilly replied the increase could have something to do with the accessories such as the stainless-steel cutters, but he will ask for the reason in the increase. No changes were made.
Sewer Utility OE (page 14D) – Line #62550046 Weatherworks Subscription had no amount listed for 2026. Ms. Sabatini corrected the omission and added $435 as the budget amount. Councilman Riccardi asked why Line #62550062 Concrete/Blacktop Disposal has no budget amount. Administrator McNeilly stated the process for handling the concrete and blacktop disposal is being managed differently. The debris is no longer hauled back to the DPW and piled. Funds are budgeted elsewhere to cover the costs. No changes were made.
Sewer Utility OE (page 14E) – Ms. Sabatini stated these are statutory expenditures and capital. No changes were made.
Water Revenue (page 13A) – Ms. Sabatini stated Line #604100 Surplus Fund Balance was reduced. The regeneration is not what it used to be years ago. Line #60503 Rents-increase is the 2% which has been worked into the budget. Line #604505 Misc Revenue is for any other charges collected. Administrator McNeilly stated this revenue includes connection fees. Ms. Sabatini stated Line #604506 Reserve for Connection Fees is a line item that can be pulled from as revenue. Line #604509 Reserve for PFAS Litigation are funds received from the PFAS litigation. The Borough should continue to receive PFAS funds over the next couple of years. Councilman Wachterhauser asked if the PFAS funds are to be used for a water filtration system. Ms. Sabatini stated the funds are in a reserve account and can be used as a revenue in the budget. Administrator McNeilly stated the funds are not being used for budget. They are being held for a “rainy day”. Ms. Sabatini stated she is using the funds to balance the budget. Administrator McNeilly stated there will be approximately $300,000 from 3M when all is said and done. Funds are still due from Dupont and Allied. Discussion took place regarding the PFAS issue. It is unknown what the future mitigation costs might be. The information is constantly changing. Administrator McNeilly stated if the $80,000 PFAS funds are used now, another source will have to be found in the future. Ms. Sabatini stated if the $80,000 is not used in this budget, then $80,000 more needs to be used of fund balance. As of January 1, 2025 the fund balance was $498,000. We are now at $391,000. That is using more than half of what is left. Administrator McNeilly asked if the rate discussion that needs to take place would take care of this? Will this be a one-time use of those funds? Mayor Wronko stated if this is a symptom of a problem which has to be solved by raising the water rates, then a finance discussion needs to take place. Administrator McNeilly agreed but stated that will not fix the issue for right now. Councilman Wachterhauser asked if there is a way to put a percentage of funds back into this account once the rates are changed. Ms. Sabatini stated contributions could be made to the reserve. Mayor Wronko asked if any other municipalities are currently working on the PFAS issues. Councilman Riccardi stated Hopatcong and Roxbury are dealing with the PFAS. Ms. Sabatini stated she is aware that in her other municipality, a lot of money is being put into PFAS mitigation. In that town the normal budget is $15 million, and the capital expenditures yearly are $25 million. Administrator McNeilly stated this is a moving target. The size of the water systems has to be considered and a determination made as to how much water flows through those filters. Everything has a high six-digit figure to it because there needs to be a design created by an engineer. It has to be built and maintained. This is also based on the concentration. The Borough is still waiting for a standard that goes low enough to capture our number. The Borough is not in the action area as this is only detectable under some very extreme circumstances. Determination would need to be made if one well is affected or all four wells. All of this would determine how many filtration systems may be needed. It is possible that the system will cost at least one million dollars. Councilman Romano stated the question right now is what amount do we want in the reserve now. If the $80,000 is taken from the reserve, it will need to go back in. Councilman Thornton stated it seems that the CFO is recommending that the money be used from the reserve as opposed to using funds from the surplus. Councilman Thornton is of the opinion the funds should be used from the reserve now. The PFAS issue is going to continue to be a moving target. Councilman Romano agreed. Administrator McNeilly stated there will be an $80,000 hole in the water revenue for 2027 plus any changes to the O&E. This issue will be discussed in 2026 for the 2027 budget. Councilman Riccardi asked if the settlement payments which will be received in the future will all be for the same amount. Ms. Sabatini stated the largest payment was received first and the other payments will be lower. No changes were made.
Sewer Revenue (page 14A) – Mayor Wronko asked why Line #624508 Reserve for Connection Fees increased by $45,000. Ms. Sabatini stated there is a reserve of $281,000 in the sewer connection fees reserve that the Borough has been sitting on for a very long time. There is an increase in debt service and an increase in capital, which is what that line item will go toward. Administrator McNeilly stated there have been quite a few connections made over the past ten years. Councilman Riccardi asked what the amount of the connection fees are. Administrator McNeilly stated the fee for sewer connections is $7,503 along with an additional charge of $1,500. The water connection charge is $2,000 with an additional charge of $1,500. For a new house to connect to the water and sewer services, the overall cost is approximately $12,000. Councilman Riccardi asked if this reserve can be used to cover the $80,000 needed for the water budget. Ms. Sabatini stated there is a reserve for water, however those funds have already been drawn from. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough has two utilities, the water utility which stands alone and the sewer utility which stands on its own. There are some residents that only have water service and some that only have sewer service. Ms. Sabatini stated the funds cannot be moved from one to the other. Administrator McNeilly stated the sewer fund is larger due to the fact that gallonage has been sold to Byram Township on three occasions. Ms. Sabatini stated there is $12,000 left in the water reserve which is being used in this budget. No changes were made.
2026 Revenue Budget – Ms. Sabatini stated Line #104000 Fund Balance (Surplus) Anticipated has increased by $50,000 for a total of $1,000,000. The surplus has consistently increased and therefore the Borough Auditor, Ray Sarinelli, has indicated to Ms. Sabatini that he is comfortable with this figure. No changes were made.
2026 General Capital Program (Page 15B) – Administrator McNeilly stated two permanently mounted speed signs are part of the capital program. One sign will be placed between Spencer Street and Sagamore Road and Delaware Avenue. Three additional portable units will also be purchased. The cost is $17,185. Administrator McNeilly stated the $4,000 for Street Lights is to have an inventory of spare lights in storage. The Borough has received funds for the damaged lights in the past but because there are none on hand, the waiting time for replacements is long. The $4,000 will cover the cost for two (2) streetlights. The 2025 budget allows for eight (8) Main Street lights to be replaced and the remaining twelve (12) need to be budgeted for in 2026. The heads of the streetlights are being replaced and changed to LED. The lights on Sparta Road will not have this issue as they are LED lights. Councilman Thornton asked what the delivery date is for the lights which have been ordered. Administrator McNeilly stated he will check on that tomorrow.
2026 Water Capital Program (Page 15C) – Ms. Sabatini stated there are no water capital requests for this year. No changes or additions were made.
2026 Sewer Capital Program (Page 15D) – Ms. Sabatini stated the only request for the sewer capital is for the sewer injector pump. Administrator McNeilly stated this is another item which will be purchased to have available on the shelf. There are areas in town, mostly near Musconetcong Avenue, which have in-house sewer injection pumps due to the fact that they are pumping up to the sewer line. There are approximately 6-7 pumps existing. A decision was made back in 1991 that the injection pumps were installed by the Borough and therefore they are the responsibility of the Borough forever. The injector pumps can be sent out to be rebuilt but there needs to be one available to install in a timely manner. This will avoid having to use an outside company for the installation and it will save the Borough money.
Ms. Sabatini stated she will make the updates and prepare the budget document.
Administrator McNeilly recapped the questions he needs to provide answers for. They are as follows: 051 in the Water Utility OE 2; 061 Contract Pre Tax Amount for water; Departmental Supplies in Sewer; and find out if anything is wrong with the sewer jet.
Shred Day – Councilman Riccardi asked Administrator McNeilly if Shred Day has been scheduled. Administrator McNeilly stated Shred Day has been scheduled. There is a disconnect between Spring Clean Up Day and Earth Day. Shred Day is tied to Earth Day. Shred Day this year is scheduled for April 25th. Traditionally, Shred Day is on Saturday and Clean Up Day is on Sunday and closer to Earth Day, but this year Clean Up Day is scheduled to take place the day after the Easter Egg Hunt. Councilman Riccardi stated the date was changed due to a conflict with other events and difficulty getting people to attend. Ms. Sabatini stated Clean Communities Funds cannot be utilized for Shred Day anymore. This will be paid for by the Recycling Trust.
Environmental Commission Request – Administrator McNeilly stated the Chair of the Environmental Commission is asking for assistance in ordering supplies. Ms. Sabatini stated she forwarded the request to the DPW Superintendent to see if he could assist. Administrator McNeilly stated the list consists of metal shelving for the shed, gloves, garbage bags, a canopy pop up tent, tick spray, wipes, and Clean Community Pens and Pencils to hand out.
OLD BUSINESS
ORDINANCE
Ordinance for Public Hearing and Final Adoption
Mayor Wronko offered the following ordinance for public hearing and final adoption which was read by title.
Ordinance 2026-01 AN ORDINANCE OF BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AMENDING THE BOROUGH CODE, INCLUDING THE ZONING MAP, REZONING BLOCK 11802, LOT 1 AS HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL, AND AMENDING CHAPTER 100, “LAND DEVELOPMENT, ARTICLE XIV, ENTITLED “HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ZONES”, SECTIONS 100-89, 100-90 AND 100-91.
WHEREAS, the governing body for the Borough of Stanhope wishes to amend its zoning map to rezone certain properties presently located in the Industrial Zone to High Density Residential; and
WHEREAS, the governing body wishes to amend Chapter 100 of its ordinances entitled “Land Development”, Article XIV to modify the principal and accessory uses and the required conditions in the High Density Residential Zone to, among other things, provide a realistic opportunity for affordable housing; and
WHEREAS, the governing body also wishes to amend Chapter 100 of its ordinances entitled “Land Development”, Article XVIII which imposes design standards for development in the Borough.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:
The Code of the Borough of Stanhope is hereby amended and supplemented, as follows:
Section 1. Chapter 100, Land Development, Article VII, Zoning Districts and Zoning Map is hereby amended and supplemented by designating Block 11802, Lot 1 to be zoned High Density Residential, and the Borough Zoning Map shall be so revised.
Section 2. Chapter 100, Zoning, Article XIV, High Density Residential Zones, is hereby amended by adding the following new subsections to Section 100-89 – Principal Use, as follows:
C. Townhouse and condominium residential units as part of an inclusionary housing neighborhood provided no townhouse or condominium building contains more than 12 units and provided at least one affordable unit is constructed on site for every five market rate units.
D. Stacked multifamily apartment residential units in buildings containing no more than 25 units.
E. Conservation area, recreation and open space.
Section 3. Chapter 100, Zoning, Article XIV, High Density Residential Zones, is hereby amended by deleting existing Section 100-90.B and adopting a new subsection B to section 100-90 – Accessory Uses, as follows:
B. In addition to “Accessory Uses” permitted as defined by Section 100-3, the following accessory uses shall be permitted in the HR Zones:
(1) Private garages
(2) Off-street parking in accordance with RSIS
(3) Patios and decks
(4) Fences and walls
(5) Signs
(6) Trash Enclosures, Solid waste/Recycling areas
(7) Stormwater management and other utilities
(8) Hot Boxes if required by any utility authority
(9) Monument Sign
(10) Building-mounted signs for identification and emergency services
(11) Recreational uses and residential amenities including, but not limited to common open spaces, walking paths, gazebos, tot lots, gardens, maintenance building(s).
(12) Leasing/Maintenance office
(13) Accessory buildings or structures required for maintenance and operations
(14) Electronic vehicle charging stations
(15) Stormwater management basins and associated structures
(16) Accessory uses on the same lot and customarily incidental to a principal use.
(17) Cluster mailboxes
(18) Generator for apartment buildings
Section 4. Chapter 100, Zoning, Article XIV, High Density Residential Zones, subsection 100-91, A – Required conditions for Principal Buildings, is hereby amended by the addition of the following:
(10) Minimum Distance Between Buildings (side to side) – 25 feet
(11) Minimum Distance Between Buildings (rear to rear) – 50 feet
(12) Minimum Distance Between Decks – 20 feet
(13) Maximum Building Length – 180 feet
(14) Minimum Townhouse facade offset– 2 feet between units
(15) Minimum Apartment facade offset– At least 2 feet offset every 50’
(16) Maximum Building Height – 45 feet
(17) Maximum Stories – Three
Section 5. Chapter 100, Zoning, Article XIV, High Density Residential Zones, subsection 100-91- Required conditions, is hereby amended by adding a new Subpart C – Additional requirements, as follows:
C. Additional requirements.
(1) Apartments and townhouses shall only be developed as an inclusionary residential development with a 20% set aside of units very low income, low- income and moderate income affordable units pursuant to the Fair Housing Act, the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) Rules, the Uniform Housing Affordability Controls (UHAC) and any rules promulgated by any Department of New Jersey government, including the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
(2) The development shall provide a minimum of a ¼ acre cleared lawn area or areas for open play.
(3) A fenced tot lot shall be provided as part of the overall development, to include:
- a handicap accessible path to neighborhood sidewalks;
- a pavilion for shade and outdoor seating with trash receptacles, and
- a facility including at least 1,500 square feet enclosed by a fence with play features to support a range of activities for tots, children consisting of weather resistant play equipment which shall include climbing and sliding activities and which provides equipment for at least 3 additional activities such as swinging, spinning, balancing, jumping, hanging, creative play, crawling, hiding, rocking, rolling, bouncing, digging, sand and water play.
Play apparatus shall comply with all applicable government agency requirements for playground design and safety. Design and construction of playgrounds must conform to the requirements of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
(4) Sidewalks shall be provided on at least one side of all streets.
(5) The driveway length between the garage door and the edge of pavement shall be:
- at least 20 feet where no sidewalk exists, and
- at least 26 feet between the garage door and edge of pavement when the sidewalk is proposed.
- No more than a 12% slope.
(6) More than one principal building or structure shall be permitted per lot.
Section 6. SEVERABILITY. The various parts, sections and clauses of this Ordinance are hereby declared to be severable. If any part, sentence, paragraph, section or clause is adjudged unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected thereby.
Section 7. NOTICE. The Borough Clerk is directed to give notice at least ten days prior to a hearing on the adoption of this ordinance to the Sussex County Planning Board and to all other municipalities and persons entitled thereto pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-15, and N.J.S.A. 40:55D-62.1.
After introduction, the Borough Clerk is hereby directed to submit a copy of the within Ordinance to the Land Use Board of the Borough of Stanhope for its review in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40:55D-26 and N.J.S.A. 40:55D-64. The Land Use Board is directed to make and transmit to the Borough Council within 35 days after referral, a report including identification of any provisions in the proposed ordinance which are inconsistent with the master plan and recommendations concerning any inconsistencies and any other matter as the Board deems appropriate.
Section 8. REPEALER. Any ordinances or parts thereof in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed as to their inconsistencies only.
Section 9. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon 1) adoption; 2) publication in accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey; (3) filing of the final form of adopted ordinance by the Clerk with a) the Sussex County Planning Board pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-16.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Smith and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Roll Call:
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Smith – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
NEW BUSINESS
ORDINANCE
Ordinance for Introduction and First Reading [Public Hearing on March 10, 2026]
Mayor Wronko offered the following ordinance for introduction and first reading which was read by title.
Ordinance 2026-04 AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY AMENDING CHAPTER 10 “JOINT MUNICIPAL COURT”
WHEREAS, the Borough Code contains a section establishing a Joint Municipal Court and setting forth the members, the specifics of operation and the necessary personnel; and
WHEREAS, two (2) of the original municipalities have terminated their participation in the Andover Joint Municipal Court; and
WHEREAS, one (1) additional municipality has become a member of the Andover Joint Municipal Court, which has been approved by the Assignment Judge of the Morris/Sussex Vicinage and shall become effective February 1, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Stanhope Borough Attorney has reviewed the Code and recommended changes in accordance with the changes to the member municipalities; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have reviewed the recommended changes and approved of same; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, Sussex County, New Jersey, that Chapter 10 “Joint Municipal Court,” shall be amended to read as follows:
SECTION 1. Various sections of Chapter 10 “Joint Municipal Court”, shall be amended to read as follows:
§ 10-1 Creation; name; jurisdiction.
A. Creation of Court. There has been created a Joint Municipal Court consisting of the following members: the Township of Andover, Township of Byram and Township of Green, Borough of Andover, Borough of Hopatcong and Borough of Stanhope. This Court is created by the shared services agreement executed by the original five municipalities in October of 2014, by Andover Borough and the two new municipalities in March 2023, and by the execution by all remaining municipalities and Green Township in November 2025, and amongst the aforesaid municipalities and is subject to the terms thereof. The shared services agreements are attached hereto and incorporated in this chapter and shall be approved by and filed with the Administrative Director of the Courts.
B. Name of Court. The name of the Joint Municipal Court shall be the “Andover Joint Municipal Court (Andover, Byram and Green Townships and Boroughs of Andover, Hopatcong and Stanhope)” effective February 1, 2026 and it shall have a seal bearing the name of the Court.
C. Jurisdiction. The jurisdiction of the Joint Municipal Court of Andover shall be coextensive with the territories of the Townships of Andover, Byram and Green and the Boroughs of Andover, Hopatcong and Stanhope in the County of Sussex. The Court shall be under the jurisdiction of the Assignment Judge and Municipal Court Administrator for Vicinage 10 – Morris/Sussex.
§ 10-9 Withdrawal by member municipality.
The members of the Joint Municipal Court of Andover established by this article are the Township of Andover, Township of Byram, Township of Green, Borough of Andover, Borough of Hopatcong and Borough of Stanhope. Collectively, the Township of Andover, Township of Byram, Township of Green, Borough of Andover, Borough of Hopatcong and Borough of Stanhope shall be referred to as members. Any member of the Andover Joint Municipal Court may withdraw by complying with the provisions of the shared services agreements amongst the members identified in § 10-1 above or such subsequent agreements or amendments then existing and in effect.
§ 10-10 Contributions and compensation.
A. The Township of Byram, the Township of Green, the Borough of Andover, Borough of Hopatcong and Borough of Stanhope shall pay the Township of Andover a fee in accordance with the shared services agreement then existing between the parties.
B. The Township of Andover shall remit fines and levies collected for infractions occurring in the Township of Byram, the Township of Green, the Borough of Andover, the Borough of Hopatcong and the Borough of Stanhope to the applicable municipality on at least a monthly basis or as set forth in the agreements amongst the municipalities.
§ 10-11. Joint Municipal Court Committee.
A Joint Municipal Court Committee shall be formed for the Andover Joint Municipal Court (Andover, Byram and Green Townships and Andover, Hopatcong and Stanhope Boroughs) consisting of the Administrators of each member municipality, the Joint Municipal Court Liaison for each member municipality and the Court Administrator. In those municipalities that do not have an Administrator, the Clerk shall serve as the Committee member.
All sections of this Article not addressed herein shall remain unchanged.
SECTION 2. All ordinances of the Borough of Stanhope, which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.
SECTION 3. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause of phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not affect the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 4. This Ordinance may be renumbered for purposes of codification.
SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall take effect upon final passage, approval, and publication as required by law.
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was introduced.
Roll Call:
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Smith – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
On motion by Councilman Wachterhauser, seconded by Councilman Simpson, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Wronko offered the following resolutions which were read by title.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, Resolution 051-26, Resolution 052-26 and Resolution 053-26 were tabled.
Roll Call:
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Smith – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Thornton– yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
TABLED
Resolution 051-26 RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE “AFFIRMATIVE MARKETING PLAN” FOR THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE
WHEREAS, in accordance with the Fair Housing Act and the New Jersey Uniform Housing Affordability Controls (N.J.A.C. 5:80-26-1, et seq.), the Borough of Stanhope is required to adopt an Affirmative Marketing Plan to ensure that all affordable housing units created, including those created by the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan within the Borough of Stanhope, are affirmatively marketed to very low, low and moderate income households, particularly those living and/or working within the Affordable Housing Region encompassing the Borough of Stanhope.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, do hereby adopt the Affirmative Marketing Plan attached hereto.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
Resolution 052-26 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING FOURTH ROUND AFFORDABLE HOUSING SPENDING PLAN
WHEREAS, on March 20, 2024, Governor Murphy signed into law P.L. 2024, c.2 which amended various provisions of the New Jersey Fair Housing Act (N.J.S.A. 52:27D-301 et seq. (“Amended FHA”); and
WHEREAS, the Amended FHA sets forth that the Fourth Round period of affordable housing obligations shall run from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2035 (“Fourth Round” or “Round Four”); and
WHEREAS, A municipality may not spend or commit to spend any affordable housing development fees, without first obtaining the approval of the expenditure as part of its compliance certification or by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA); and
WHEREAS, the Borough adopted a development fee ordinance, which has been revised for the Fourth Round; and
WHEREAS, the development fee ordinance establishes an affordable housing trust fund that includes development fees, payments from developers in lieu of constructing affordable units on-site, barrier free escrow funds, rental income, repayments from affordable housing program loans, recapture funds, proceeds from the sale of affordable units, and/or any other funds collected for affordable housing purposes; and
WHEREAS, the Borough planner has prepared a 2026 Affordable Housing Trust Fund Spending Plan.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, Sussex County, New Jersey, that the Borough of Stanhope hereby adopts the 2026 Affordable Housing Trust Fund Spending Plan for the Borough of Stanhope, prepared by Borough Planner William Hamilton, Principal Planner of Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd., which is attached hereto and incorporated herein.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
TABLED
Resolution 053-26 RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE “REHABILITATION PLAN” FOR THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE
WHEREAS, in accordance with the Fair Housing Act and the New Jersey Uniform Housing Affordability Controls (N.J.A.C. 5:80-26-1, et seq.), the Borough of Stanhope is required to adopt a Rehabilitation Plan to ensure that all affordable housing units rehabilitated through the Borough’s Rehabilitation Program, are rehabilitated according to all rules and regulations applicable to rehabilitation programs and participants meet income requirements, particularly those living and/or working within the Affordable Housing Region encompassing the Borough of Stanhope.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, do hereby adopt the Rehabilitation Plan attached hereto.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
Resolution 058-26 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING 100% DISABLED VETERAN EXEMPT STATUS TO OWNER OF BLOCK 11105 LOT 2 FOR TAX YEAR 2026 AND PARTIAL REFUND OF TAXES PAID FOR 1ST QUARTER 2026
WHEREAS, John Campanile is the lawful owner of Block 11105, Lot 2, also known as 3 Spring Lane, and has been deemed 100% disabled by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs; and
WHEREAS, John Campanile has applied to the Stanhope Borough Tax Assessor for a 100% Disabled Veteran exemption in accordance with 54:4-3:30, which will be granted for the year 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Tax Assessor has recommended that this exemption be retroactive to February 2, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Tax Collector has determined that the property taxes are paid through the 1st quarter 2026. Therefore, a refund is due in the amount of $2,062.05 which represents a pro-rated amount of 1st quarter 2026 taxes; and
WHEREAS, the Tax Collector is to cancel a pro-rated amount for 1st quarter 2026 taxes in the amount of $2,062.05 and 2nd quarter 2026 property taxes in the amount of $3,180.45 totaling $5,242.50.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the property be classified as 100% exempt effective February 2, 2026, and the Tax Collector be authorized to issue a refund in the amount of $2,062.05 to John Campanile, 3 Spring Lane, Stanhope, NJ 07874, and cancel a portion of 1st quarter 2026 and 2nd quarter 2026 taxes in the amount of $5,242.50.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Smith – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Thornton– yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 059-26 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF BILLS
WHEREAS, the Chief Finance Officer has certified that funds are available in the proper account; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Finance Officer has approved payment upon certification from the Borough Department Heads that the goods and/or services have been rendered to the Borough;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the current bills list, dated February 24, 2026, and on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Chief Finance Officer and approved by the Chief Finance Officer for payment, be paid.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Smith – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
ATTORNEY REPORT
Attorney Ursula Leo stated she had no report this evening.
CITIZEN’S TO BE HEARD
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Rich Perry asked what the age requirement would be for the Environmental Commission Liaison position and if this would count toward community service hours. Councilman Riccardi stated the minimum age requirement would be 16 with parental consent and this would count toward community service hours. Mr. Perry stated grants were received from the government to install the streetlights on Sparta Road. He is uncertain whether the lights on Main Street were part of a grant, but now we are paying thousands of dollars for lights. JCP&L still has lights on Sparta Road. Mr. Perry stated this is a hindsight is 20/20 statement but, we took the grant money and now we have the responsibility. Mayor Wronko stated it is beneficial to the community to have the streetlights but there is a cost involved. Administrator McNeilly stated the Main Street lights were paid one hundred percent by the Borough, and we have only lost one in almost twenty years.
Seeing no one further from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
CLOSED SESSION
1. The general nature of the subject matter(s) to be discussed is as follows:
1 – Personnel
2. It is anticipated at this time that the above stated subject matter(s) will be made public at the conclusion of each individual specified subject matter.
3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Smith, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.
The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 7:46 P.M.
RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 7:48 P.M. with all present.
On motion by Councilman Smith, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 7:48 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk