MAYOR AND COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AND AGENDA MEETING
September 13, 2016 at 7:00 P.M.

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CALL TO ORDER

SALUTE TO COLORS

Mayor Maio 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 6, 2016 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 11:00 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 within ten (10) days of this meeting. Please turn off all cell phones for the duration of this meeting.

ROLL CALL

Council Members:
Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – present
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilwoman Zdichocki – present

Mayor Maio – present

ENGINEER’S REPORT

Mayor Maio invited Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, forward to present his report. Mr. Keller distributed copies of his report.

Reclamation Project – Mr. Keller stated he has received confirmation that the reclamation project will begin next Monday. Mr. Keller stated Adam, from Bowman Consulting, will be onsite to inspect the work. All six streets will be completed within ten working days. The contractor has received their Notice to Proceed and the contract period runs until October 20, 2016. The paving work has to follow closely behind the reclamation work. Administrator McNeilly stated it has been stressed several times that the areas of Port Morris and Spring which meet at Brooklyn Road will have specific times when they can be accessed. Mayor Maio asked if notices have been distributed to the residents. Mr. Keller stated he will bring the notices to Administrator McNeilly tomorrow.

Main Street Crosswalk Rehabilitation – Mr. Keller stated only one bid has been received for the Main Street crosswalks which did not exceed the bid threshold. The bid is approximately twice the amount of our estimate. Mr. Keller had estimated the project high due to the small quantity. Mr. Keller stated the paving portion of the project is the issue. The project will have to be moved to the spring. The bid from Lakeside Construction was $16,805 to mill and pave the crosswalks. The Borough’s estimate was $8,805. It appears the small quantity is impacting the unit prices more than we anticipated. Mr. Keller will continue to solicit bids from local pavers though at this point he stated we are running out of time.

Councilman Thornton asked if the DPW would be able to mill and pave the crosswalks. Mayor Maio stated this was discussed previously and the Governing Body agreed that if the DPW does the work and a problem occurs with the installation, the Borough could be at fault. Mayor Maio asked Mr. Keller if the Governing Body approves the bid from Lakeside can we move forward with the installation of the crosswalks. Mr. Keller stated the Borough held a bid opening for the installation of the crosswalks but did not receive any bids. The project will have to be rebid. Much discussion took place regarding how the project should proceed and the funding. Administrator McNeilly stated even if the paving is completed now, there is not enough time to bid the project and have the crosswalks installed prior to winter. The installation has to wait until spring. The sum of $62,000 has been allocated for this project. Councilman Thornton is of the opinion it would not be practical to mill and pave now. This would subject the paving to the winter weather, salting and plowing. Mayor Maio stated other projects under consideration for next year may have to be changed due to the increased cost for the crosswalk project. Mayor Maio does not want to combine the milling and paving with another project. Administrator McNeilly stated if the temporary capital ordinance is in place for the reorganization meeting, the Borough can go out to bid in February.

Main Street Lighting – Mr. Keller stated there is an ordinance for consideration on tonight’s agenda to provide the additional funding for the Main Street Lighting Project. The low bidder for the project was J.C. Contracting with the bid of $123,210.00. Mr. Keller provided the timeline for awarding the contract, scheduling the pre-construction meeting by mid-October and an overview of the required paperwork.

Mr. Keller stated, as previously discussed in the planning stages, there is a long lead time of approximately 12 weeks for the light fixtures. The supplier no longer stocks non-LED fixtures and these will have to be ordered from the manufacturer. The contract requires the shop drawings for the light fixtures be submitted within ten days of the Notice to Proceed. Upon approval of the shop drawings, the contractor must submit the order for the light fixtures within seven calendar days. This will result in the light fixture order being placed at the end of November. The anticipated delivery of the light fixtures is late February or early March 2017. The contractor has the right to install the conduit, junction boxes and bases while waiting for the fixtures to be delivered or after, as long as the project is completed within 60 days from receipt of the fixtures.

Mayor Maio stated she is frustrated by the fact this is the second project scheduled for this year which is hopefully going to be done by spring. Mayor Maio is concerned the lead time will be even longer than estimated due to the holidays. Administrator McNeilly stated in addition to the long lead time for the fixtures, the bid was delayed due to the bidder’s objection of the paperwork. Mayor Maio stated the time frames for the projects need to be tightened. Delaying projects by almost a year is unacceptable. Mr. Keller stated the bid documents went out in June. The bid opening was scheduled for July and was delayed by two weeks due to the bidder’s objection. The bid received came in over the amount and funds were not available. Much discussion took place regarding the timeline.

Musconetcong Dam Rehabilitation – Mr. Keller stated the revised plans from NJDEP’s consultant have been received which address the concerns raised by the governing body. A stained concrete surface has been selected for the walkway which will blend with the armoring. The color is “Steadman Buff” which is a beige color with a heavy broom finish. Four (4) trees will be planted, two sugar maples and two flowering dogwoods. The placement of the trees will be in consultation with the Borough. The next step in the process is for the Governing Body to authorize the signing of the “Easement for Dam Construction and Maintenance”. Mr. Keller stated he does not know if any changes need to be made to the agreement. Administrator McNeilly asked Mr. Keller to forward the revised plans from July 26, 2016. Administrator McNeilly will forward all the paperwork to Mr. Stein for review. Mayor Maio stated the project is supposed to begin in October. Mr. Keller stated he does not know if that is still the schedule.

Mayor Maio stated the Shade Tree Commission is pursuing planting along the canal bank. They are waiting for a proposal from the landscaper. Mr. Keller stated the area is regulated and the species will have to be native plants.

Route 183/206 Sidewalk Project – Mr. Keller stated he is of the opinion that discussions have concluded with Stanhope Mountain and they will sign the easement agreement for their parcel. Mr. Keller stated he spoke with Mr. Stein about adding a clause to the agreement. Stanhope Mountain was concerned due to the fact they may want to obtain access to the property from the State in the future. The clause states the Borough will be supportive of any applications to NJDOT and would modify the retaining wall if need be at such future date. Mr. Keller will be meeting with Park Quinsel in West Orange on Thursday night and hopefully he will give Mr. Keller the signed easement agreement. Mr. Keller stated Administrator McNeilly has been speaking with Mr. Grafe regarding the easement for his parcel. Mr. Keller stated he has deferred to Mr. Stein for the status with Public Services.

Mayor Maio stated the Borough still does not know if the funds are going to be provided. The funds may be provided once the Transportation Trust Fund becomes available or the Borough might be penalized because the project did not meet the deadlines. Mr. Keller stated the last time he spoke with the representative from the State; it was the representative’s opinion that there were suitable extenuating circumstances for the delay. Trenton will make the decision.

Sagamore Road – Mr. Keller stated the milling on Sagamore Road has been completed. Additional asphalt was needed which added $700 to the project but the cost was still below the amount which was originally anticipated. Mr. Keller stated there was a mailbox knocked down during the paving operation. Tilcon was contacted and will replace the mailbox. Mayor Maio asked what the final cost was. Mr. Keller stated the cost was $26,604.98. Mayor Maio stated the original estimate was $34,000.

24-26 Lawrence Road Drainage – Mr. Keller stated the slotted drain was installed at 24-26 Lawrence Road which should rectify the ponding issue.

Route 206 Access Level Classification – Mr. Keller stated a letter has been received, dated August 24^th, stating the application is complete. Mr. Keller stated he and the Borough received letters asking for comments on the application. Mayor Maio stated the Borough made the request and of course we are in favor of it. Mr. Keller stated the law requires the two towns affected to be permitted an opportunity to comment. There should be a caveat stating unless one of the towns is the applicant. The comment period is 50 days. An answer should be received by October 13^th. Mr. Keller stated he is concerned due to the fact when the application was deemed incomplete, they stated it does not meet the minimum section length of a mile. When you take into consideration what is north of us, it does meet the requirement. Mr. Keller stated this explanation was accepted for the completeness of the application. Mayor Maio stated her concern is that the longer this takes, the less chance the Borough has to get the property developed and it lessens the chance for any type of economic development in the area.

Infrastructure Committee – Mr. Keller stated an Infrastructure Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday morning at 9:00AM to discuss next year’s capital and the five year plan. Mr. Keller stated he met with Administrator McNeilly and Bill Storms, DPW Superintendent, last week to prepare for the meeting.

TAP Grant Application – Administrator McNeilly stated there was a Community Development Committee meeting held last week with Millennium Strategies to review projects which will fit the criteria for the DOT TAP Grant.

Mr. Keller stated there are three components. The desired scope for this application would include walkway lighting for the Valley Road School (to High Point Condominiums) and to Lenape Valley Regional High School (from Elm Street), as well as streetscape/traffic calming improvements along Sparta Road. Most of the path is in the paper right of way of Delaware. There is one piece between Meadowbrook and the high school owned by Cronheim. The path goes through Cronheim’s property, and it has for years, but there is no right of way to the school property at Delaware.

Mr. Keller provided a handout with various styles of LED lighting fixtures which are available. The lights along the pathway would be spaced approximately 100 feet apart. Much discussion took place regarding the styles and placement. Lighting options for Sparta Road were also discussed. Administrator McNeilly stated if the grant is received to install the lighting, a letter of understanding would be required from Valley Road School to provide the power for the lights. The power required will be minimal. Mr. Keller stated there will be approximately six (6), 40 watt LED fixtures and a control cabinet. Using the bid prices for the Main Street Phase II Lighting, the rough estimate for the Valley Road School lighting is approximately $130,000. The estimate for the Lenape Valley walkway lighting, consisting of 20 lights and a control cabinet, is $305,000. Much discussion took place regarding the grant requirements, the type of projects the DOT is looking for and the available lighting options. Administrator McNeilly stated the spill over light issue must be taken into consideration for the neighboring homeowners. Mr. Keller stated there are dimming options available for an additional cost. A timer can be placed in the cabinet to control the lighting.

Mr. Keller distributed handouts with ideas for traffic calming options for Sparta Road. The state will not allow speed bumps on Sparta Road due to the volume of traffic. There are other ways to slow the traffic down such as visually narrowing the roadway by bringing in the shoulder lines, installing bike lanes, colored shoulders to enhance the narrowness, colored approaches to intersections, emblems in the roadway, the speed limit sign can be placed onto the pavement, automatic electronic speed limit signs which monitor your speed can be installed and rumble strips. Mr. Keller stated he does not like to use rumble strips in residential areas.

Mayor Maio asked Mr. Keller if a center median with trees could be installed as opposed to widening the shoulders. Mr. Keller stated the concern is with parking along Sparta Road, which is permitted. Mayor Maio stated there is no parking in front of the high school. Mr. Keller stated this is not by code. There are no parking regulations for Sparta Road. Mayor Maio suggested the section of Sparta Road by the high school could have a median. Much discussion took place regarding the options for calming the traffic on Sparta Road.

Councilwoman Kuncken asked if the options have to be determined now and how detailed the grant application has to be. Mayor Maio stated the application has to specific. Administrator McNeilly stated the DOT has to be informed this week if the Borough is going to submit an application for the grant. Councilwoman Zdichocki stated the grants start at $150,000 and can be for as much as one million dollars. Councilwoman Zdichocki stated the suggestion from the grant writer was to submit an application for a minimum of $750,000 but as high as $900,000. Councilwoman Kuncken stated the easy decisions are for the trails on the two paths. Mr. Keller stated the lighting for the two paths would cost approximately $435,000. Mr. Keller asked if the grant requires the Borough to match or provide funds. Councilwoman Zdichocki stated no funds are required from the Borough. Mayor Maio stated the grant should be for a project which is a continuation of work already undertaken by the Borough.

Mr. Keller stated he broke down Sparta Road from Brooklyn Road to the high school driveway which is approximately 1900 feet. This is the area where the sidewalks exist. Installing lights and crosswalks or intersection devices would cost approximately half a million dollars. The cost for 20 lights, at $6,000 each, with wiring and the control cabinet would total approximately $270,000. The cost of lighting from the high school to the Borough line would be an additional $300,000. Councilwoman Zdichocki asked if the reflectors in the middle of the road would be considered a calming device. Mr. Keller stated the two-way plowable markers could be used. Mr. Keller stated deco mark can be used to print words into the pavement using the same material which is used for crosswalks. The speed limit can be imprinted, slow school ahead or any information the Borough would like to use to calm down the traffic speed. Mr. Keller stated a bike lane could be put in place from the old Sparta Road gate to the Little League field. Much discussion took place regarding the areas for crosswalks and placement of trees. Councilwoman Kuncken stated Lenape Valley High School will have to be contacted to discuss the plans. Councilwoman Zdichocki stated letters of support will be requested from the schools and property owners for submission with the grant. Mayor Maio stated the Borough will also request letters from the Chamber of Commerce and the businesses.

The Governing Body chose the hooded lamps for the paths and the globe lights for Sparta Road from Brooklyn Road to the end of the sidewalks. From the Hopatcong side coming into the Borough the inlaid signs, trees and standard crosswalks will be installed. Mr. Keller asked if the Governing Body would like treatments at the intersections and/or to have the shoulders widened. Administrator McNeilly suggested the widening of the shoulders be discussed in the future when Sparta Road is repaved. Mayor Maio stated the Borough needs to be mindful of the deadlines.

On motion by Councilman Thornton, seconded by Councilwoman Zdichocki and unanimously carried by voice vote, approval was granted to move forward with the TAP Grant application.

Administrator McNeilly asked Mr. Keller to prepare the packet which will be forwarded to Katherine at Millennium Strategies. Administrator McNeilly will contact both schools.

Mayor Maio thanked Mr. Keller for attending this evenings meeting.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Budget 2017 – Administrator McNeilly stated there was a slight delay in providing budget sheets to the Mayor and Council. The following departments have submitted requests: the Borough Clerk, Police Department, Fire Department, Environmental Commission, Public Works Department, Land Use Board and the Recreation Commission. The remaining departments will receive a reminder notice. Administrator McNeilly requested the Budget and Capital Discussion be added to the agenda beginning with the October 11^th meeting and remain on the agendas for the remainder of the year.

Schuffenhauer Property – Administrator McNeilly stated he spoke with Mr. Schuffenhauer this afternoon who claims he has not heard from anyone in the Borough since April. Administrator McNeilly stated Mr. Schuffenhauer stated he has been waiting for zoning approval. Administrator McNeilly stated he directed Mr. Schuffenhauer to contact the Zoning Officer and informed him that the Borough is requiring the building be torn down. Mr. Schuffenhauer will also be speaking with Tom Pershouse, Construction Official. Administrator McNeilly stated Mr. Schuffenhauer still wishes to rebuild or build a house on the property.

Byram Sewer Request – Administrator McNeilly stated a property owner in Byram Township is in need of sewer gallonage. Administrator McNeilly stated Byram’s Administrator contacted him to see if Stanhope is interested in the sale of surplus gallonage. If the Governing Body is in favor of approving the request, the Borough Auditor and Attorney will be contacted to begin the process. Administrator McNeilly suggested an escrow check in the amount of $2,500 should be required.

Mayor Maio is of the opinion a previous sale fell through several years ago due to the fact the Borough held too firm on a price. Mayor Maio stated the final cost will be determined by the Governing Body. Administrator McNeilly stated he will request an escrow check from the property owner. Administrator McNeilly will then contact the Auditor and the Borough Attorney.

OPEIU Local 32 (DPW) and Stanhope Police PBA – Administrator McNeilly stated the union negotiation dates need to be set for the DPW and the Police. Mayor Maio stated the negotiation team will remain the same for both groups. The Finance Committee & Administration will be part of the committee. Mayor Maio asked Administrator McNeilly to ask both unions to submit possible dates.

Chester Lighting (Main Street Replacement Light) – Administrator McNeilly stated Chester Lighting attempted to deliver the Main Street light fixture today. Unfortunately, the driver only had one box but the packing slip was for several boxes. Administrator McNeilly stated he refused delivery of the partial order.

Shed – Councilwoman Zdichocki asked Administrator McNeilly for an update on shed storage space for the Recreation Commission. Administrator McNeilly stated the shed at the DPW yard is utilized by the Police Department and is not available for storage of recreation supplies. Councilwoman Zdichocki stated she is of the opinion the recreation equipment should not be stored in the same area as the Borough’s records.

E-Waste Recycling – Councilman Thornton asked Administrator McNeilly if there is an update regarding the electronic recycling. Administrator McNeilly stated no new information is available at this time.

WORK SESSION

Tie A Ribbon Campaign (October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month) – Mayor Maio stated the Tie A Ribbon Campaign begins October 1^st. The Governing Body members will meet on Thursday, September 29^th, 10:00AM at Borough Hall to tie the ribbons along Main Street.

TAP Grant – Mayor Maio stated no further discussion regarding the TAP Grant is needed at this time.

Employee Handbook – Mayor Maio stated the Governing Body members have each received an updated employee handbook for review. Administrator McNeilly stated the resolution to adopt the changes will be on the September 27^th agenda.

Energy Aggregate – Mayor Maio stated the energy aggregation ordinance was introduced at the last meeting. This is a new co-op with Sussex and Warren Counties. The public hearing and final adoption is on tonight’s agenda.

Land Use Board – Mayor Maio stated the Land Use Board voted last night to hire a new attorney. Glen Gavin has his own firm, along with one partner, which is located in Sparta. Attorney Gavin is also a Municipal Judge in Wantage. Attorney Gavin will formally attend the October Land Use Board meeting.

OLD BUSINESS

Mayor Maio offered the following ordinances for Public Hearing and Final Adoption which were read by title:

Ordinances for Public Hearing and Final Adoption

Ordinance 2016-10
AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, SUSSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY ESTABLISHING AN ENERGY AGGREGATION PROGRAM

WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey has been engaged in a process to establish a competitive market place through deregulation and restructuring the electric utility market and natural gas market; and

WHEREAS, the establishment of a government aggregator and an energy aggregation program to purchase electric generation service pursuant to N.J.S.A. 48:3-93.1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 14:4-6.1 et seq. will increase competition for the provision of electric power to residential users, thereby increasing the likelihood of lower electric rates for these users without causing any interruption in service; and

WHEREAS, under the aggregation process the residential ratepayers may likely receive a direct reduction in their electric bills; and

WHEREAS, the realization of energy costs savings is in the interests of the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the Borough of Stanhope; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope hereby finds that it is in the best interests of residential ratepayers for the Borough to create the opportunity for them to enter into an aggregation agreement in order to seek substantial savings on electric rates; and

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope in the County of Sussex and the State of New Jersey, as follows:

The Borough of Stanhope publicly declares its intent to become an aggregator of electric power on behalf of its residential users of electricity pursuant to the Government Energy Act of 2003, N.J.S.A. 48:3-91.3 to -98, and implementing regulations.
The Borough of Stanhope will utilize approved vendor Concord Engineering’s dba Concord Energy Services Reverse Energy Auction Platform pursuant to the NJ E-PROCUREMENT Pilot program (P.L. 2001, c.30) under the NJ Department of Community Affairs. The Reverse Energy auction will seek bids from licensed and appropriate third party suppliers. If such winning bid is selected and agreement executed, individual residential consumers would retain the option not to participate and to choose any alternatives they desire.
The Mayor and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute any documents necessary to carry out the purpose of the Ordinance.
All ordinances and parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
If any portion of this ordinance shall be deemed invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder shall survive in full force and effect.
This ordinance shall be effective immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.

On motion by Councilwoman Thistleton, seconded by Councilman Romano, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.

Mayor Maio opened this portion of the meeting to the public for discussion on this item only.

Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Maio closed this portion of the meeting.

Roll Call:
Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes

On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilwoman Zdichocki, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Borough Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.

Ordinance 2016-11
CAPITAL ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $39,900.00 OF CAPITAL FUND BALANCE FOR SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING FOR ORD. 2016-04 – MAIN STREET LIGHTING, AS AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY

BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, AS FOLLOWS;

Section 1. The improvements described in Section 3 of this capital ordinance are hereby respectively authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by the Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey. For the said several improvements or purposes stated in said Section 3, there are hereby appropriated the respective sums of money therein stated as the appropriations made for said improvements or purposes, said sums being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefore and amounting in the aggregate to $39,900.00, which has heretofore been set aside for the improvement or purpose stated in Section 3 and now available therefore by virtue of provision in a previously adopted budget or budgets of the Borough for capital improvement purposes.

Section 2. For the financing of said improvements or purposes and to meet the part of said $39,900.00 appropriations, the Borough will use $39,900.00 from General Capital Fund Balance, as described in Section 3.

Section 3. The improvements hereby authorized and the several purposes for the allocation of which said obligations are to be spent, the appropriation made for an estimated cost of each such purpose, and the estimated maximum amount of funds to be spent for each such purpose, are respectively as follows:

Supplemental Funding for Ord. 2016-04 – Main Street Lighting $39,900.00

$39,900.00 General Capital Fund Balance

All the aforestated improvements or purposes where applicable, are in accordance with specifications on file in the office of the Borough Clerk, which specifications are hereby approved.

Section 4. The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:

(a)The said purposes described in Section 3 of this capital ordinance are capital expenses and are each a property or improvement which the Borough may lawfully acquire or make as a general improvement, and no part of the cost thereof has been or shall be specifically assessed on property specially benefited thereby.

(b)The average period of usefulness of said purposes within the limitations of said Local bond Law and taking into consideration the respective amounts of the said obligations authorized for the several purposes, according to the reasonable life thereof computed by this capital ordinance, is five (5) years.

Section 5. This capital ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days after the publication thereof after final adoption.

On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilwoman Thistleton, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.

Mayor Maio opened this portion of the meeting to the public for discussion on this item only.

Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Maio closed this portion of the meeting.

Roll Call:
Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes

On motion by Councilwoman Thistleton, seconded by Councilwoman Zdichocki, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Borough Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.

NEW BUSINESS

RESOLUTIONS

Mayor Maio offered the following resolutions which were read by title:

Resolution 137-16
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING BOROUGH OF STANHOPE TO EXECUTE MORRIS COUNTY COOPERATIVE PRICING COUNCIL AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-11(5) authorizes two or more contracting units to enter into a cooperative pricing agreement for the purchase of work, materials and supplies; and

WHEREAS, the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council (“MCCPC”) was established in 1974 to conduct a voluntary cooperative pricing system with municipalities, boards of education and other public bodies; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope heretofore became a member of the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council; and

WHEREAS, the MCCPC publicly bids for a wide range of services, materials and supplies, which bid price is then available to any of its members without the need for further public bidding; and

WHEREAS, membership in the MCCPC has resulted in substantial savings to the Borough of Stanhope due to the large quantity bidding done by the MCCPC, as well as by alleviating the Borough of Stanhope’s need to individually bid for said goods; and

WHEREAS, the current five (5) year membership of the Borough in the MCCPC is about to expire; and

WHEREAS, the Borough wishes to continue its membership in the MCCPC; and

WHEREAS, the MCCPC has offered a new five (5) year cooperative pricing agreement effective October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2021; and

WHEREAS, the proposed form of agreement has been reviewed and approved by the Borough Attorney;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Borough is hereby authorized to enter into a five (5) year agreement with the MCCPC; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Clerk be and same are hereby authorized to execute said agreement on behalf of the Borough of Stanhope.

On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.

Roll Call:

Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes

CONSENT AGENDA (All items listed on the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the Borough Council and were enacted by one motion of the Borough Council with no separate discussion.)

Resolution 138-16
RESOLUTION TO REFUND OVERPAYMENT OF TAXES FOR 100% DISABLED VETERAN

WHEREAS, the homeowner was approved to receive the property tax exemption of a totally disabled veteran on August 31, 2016 and is therefore exempt from property taxes from that date forward; and

WHEREAS, the total amount due in 2016 was $8,030.01 less the Veteran’s Deduction of $250.00, or $7,780.01. Pro-rating that amount for (8) months (taxes are based on 12 30-day months) will reduce the liability for 2016 to $5,186.67; and

WHEREAS, the property owner had in good faith paid the first three quarters of property taxes in the amount of $5,759.97, creating an overpayment of $573.30 in taxes on this property; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that a warrant be drawn to the homeowner in the designated amount representing an overpayment of taxes, as follows:

Homeowner Information:

Block Lot Name & Address Tax Year Amount
11304 26 Michael & Diane Skibicki 2016 $573.30
127 Main St,
Stanhope, NJ 07874

Resolution 139-16
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF TAXES

WHEREAS, the homeowner made payment for the redemption of an outside lien on September 7, 2016, and the redemption figure included legal fees; and

WHEREAS, it was brought to the attention of the Tax Collector on September 8, 2016 that the legal fees were not liable for payment until 30 days from the date of the attorney’s letter (August 31, 2016) or September 30, 2016; and

WHEREAS, the Tax Collector then applied the payment originally intended for legal fees to the homeowner’s property tax, creating an overpayment of property taxes for 2016; and

WHEREAS, the homeowner would like a refund rather than a credit on his account.

Block Lot Qual Name & Address Tax Year Amount
11501 2 C0171 Mitchell Kriegsfeld 2016 $1,307.00
10171 Dell Place
Stanhope, New Jersey 07874

Resolution 140-16
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF REDEMPTION MONIES
TO OUTSIDE LIEN HOLDER

WHEREAS, the Tax Collector has received payment for the redemption of Tax Title Lien No. 2015-002, representing 2014 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 10401, Lot 14, known as 37 Lloyd Avenue, assessed to Sergio J & Kelly P Chavarria, and;

WHEREAS, the Tax Collector certifies that reimbursement is now required to be made to the following lien holder for the required redemption amounts as shown below:

To Lienholder: US Bank Cust for BV Trust 2015-1
c/o Blue Virgo Capital Mgmt, LLC
50 S. 16^th Street, Suite 1950
Philadelphia, PA 19102-2513

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2015-002 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 28,273.24
Premium Paid by Lienholder 33,100.00

Total From Current Fund: $ 28,273.24

Total From Tax Premium Account 33,100.00

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Borough Treasurer be authorized to prepare the necessary check as stated above and to forward same to the lien holder.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer/Tax Collector.

Resolution 141-16
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF
REDEMPTION MONIES TO OUTSIDE LIEN HOLDER

WHEREAS, the Tax Collector has received payment for the redemption of Tax Title Lien No. 2013-026, representing 2012 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11501, Lot 2, C0171, known as 10171 Dell Place, assessed to Mitchell Kriegsfeld, and;

WHEREAS, the Tax Collector certifies that reimbursement is now required to be made to the following lien holder for the required redemption amounts as shown below:

To Lienholder: US Bank Cust for BV Trust 2015-1
c/o BlueVirgo Capital Mgmt., LLC
50 S. 16^th Street, Suite 1950
Philadelphia, PA 19102-2513

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2013-026 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 32,100.69
Premium Paid by Lienholder 13,300.00

Total From Current Fund: $ 32,100.69

Total From Tax Premium Account 13,300.00

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer/Tax Collector.

On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilwoman Zdichocki and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.

Roll Call:
Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes

Mayor’s Appointment

Resolution 142-16
Resolution Approving The Mayor’s Appointment Of Nicholas R. Ferrer, As A
Member Of The Stanhope Fire Department

Mayor’s appointment of Nicholas R. Ferrer, as a member of the Stanhope Fire Department.

BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Stanhope that they do hereby concur with the Mayor’s appointment of Nicholas R. Ferrer, as a Member of the Stanhope Fire Department effective immediately.

On motion by Councilwoman Zdichocki, seconded by Councilman Thornton and carried unanimously by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.

PAYMENT OF BILLS

Resolution 143-16
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 September 13, 2016 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 Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.

Roll Call:
Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes

AGENDA ITEMS

All items listed on the Agenda for September 27, 2016 were approved with the addition of the resolutions for the Employee Handbook and the signing of the Energy Agreement.

CITIZEN’S TO BE HEARD

Mayor Maio opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.

Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Maio closed the public portion of the meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

On a motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilwoman Thistleton, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:51 P.M.

Approved:
Linda Chirip,
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk

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Borough of Stanhope