MAYOR AND COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AND
AGENDA MEETING
April 10, 2018
6:30 P.M.

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 3, 2018 and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building.

Furthermore, notice of the early Closed Session was forwarded to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on April 2, 2018 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:
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilwoman Thistleton – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilwoman Zdichocki – present

Mayor Maio – present

CLOSED SESSION
WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231 P.L. 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances; and

WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist.

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

1. The public shall be excluded from discussion of and action upon the hereinafter-specified subject matter(s).

2. The general nature of the subject matter(s) to be discussed is as follows:

1 – Litigation (Officer Montella)

3. 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.

4. This resolution shall take effect immediately.

On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.

The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 6:31 P.M.

RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 6:56 P.M. with all present.

A recess was held until 7:00PM. At 7:00PM the meeting resumed. Mayor Maio amended the agenda and asked Mr. Sarinelli, Borough Auditor, to come forward to give his presentation.

PRESENTATION
Annual Audit – Raymond Sarinelli, Borough Auditor, thanked Mayor Maio for amending the agenda. Mr. Sarinelli stated this is an annual process. The current fund, fund balance, expectedly declined this year by $100,000. It went from $1.8 million to $1.7 million. The revenues came in as expected. The tax collection percentage has been very good. The unexpended balances were approximately the same. The planned reduction of $100,000 did occur. The Governing Body is very good at budgeting. The 2018 budget used $100,000 less of fund balance. This is a good planning process. The overall outstanding debt of the capital accounts was reduced from $2.2 million to $2 million. The Governing Body has been very careful with the capital plan. Discussion will take place with regard to the opportunity to bond or not to bond. Some of the reserves have started to build in the trust funds. There is an accumulated sick reserve of $133,000 and a storm recovery of $135,000. This is good planning to have funds set aside while the economy has been in recovery, for those years when it is not so good.

Mr. Sarinelli stated the water and sewer utility while both are in reasonably good shape; we have discussed moving the billing rate so as to not impact anyone. The sewer utility rate would be reduced with an equal offset of the water. This has been done twice in the past. Mr. Sarinelli stated he agrees now would be a good time. This year the fund balance for water decreased approximately $45,000 and the sewer utility increased approximately $75,000. There is a much larger fund balance in the sewer than there is in the water. Most of which is a result of the forty year debt going away several years ago. The Borough has had the opportunity to not impact the users by decreasing one rate and increasing the other. Mr. Sarinelli stated he and Administrator McNeilly and Dana Mooney, CFO, have discussed the issue and agree it is time to make the switch. The $5.00 change would impact each utility by a small amount. The difference would be approximately $7,500 from one to the other per quarter. This would be a $30,000 impact over the course of the year. Mayor Maio stated she is of the opinion the amount was significantly higher last time. Mr. Sarinelli suggested perhaps the change amount should be $10.00 instead of $5.00. These figures should be reviewed. The water rents are down slightly. Last summer was a wetter season and there was less water usage in most municipalities. Mayor Maio stated the ordinance is on the agenda for tonight. Mayor Maio asked Mr. Sarinelli if the ordinance should be pulled for this evening. Much discussion took place. The Governing Body agreed to pull the ordinance for tonight and review the figures prior to introducing the ordinance. The ordinance will be revised for the April 24^th meeting agenda.

Mr. Sarinelli stated there is a recommendation reminding the Borough to look at the grants. There are some receivables and reserves to be cleaned up which is an ongoing process. Other than that the Borough is in very good shape.

Bonding and NJEIT – Mr. Sarinelli stated he met on December 21, 2017 with the Finance Committee to discuss whether or not the Borough should roll the notes over to bonds when they come due in a couple months. The discussion at that time revolved around what the interest rates might be. Historically speaking these are very low interest rates of 2-3% for long term bonding. These rates have been low for approximately ten years but signals are showing this may change. All of the open projects at the time were reviewed and we discussed consolidating the debt and trying to understand if it was still affordable and not a have an impact on the future. It was close. The Borough was then going to review all of the projects under consideration. A bond sale is expensive and can cost between $30,000 – $50,000. Mr. Sarinelli stated he spoke with Administrator McNeilly last week or so and he informed him not all of the decisions have been made with regard to the larger items. The Borough is probably not ready to roll the bonds into notes. Once the debt is issued the Borough would be locked in for the next fifteen or so years. Mr. Sarinelli stated he has spoken with Dana Mooney, CFO, regarding six month bonds or shorter term notes and issue bonds later in the year. Mr. Sarinelli stated in speaking with Administrator McNeilly there was concern this would not work due to the timing. A six month note needs to be decided on at least three months prior. Administrator McNeilly stated if the short term bond ends in this calendar year, the Borough is not prepared for that to occur. Mr. Sarinelli confirmed this and stated when a six month note comes due, the interest is due and the Borough does not have these funds included in the budget. Mr. Sarinelli stated his estimate for bonding the existing debt projects was approximately $2.8 million. Some of this would be paid down to approximately $2 million. Adding the projects for 2018 would total $3 million with another $850,000 for the municipal building and $600,000 for roads which was still to be determined. Mayor Maio stated, aside from existing debt, the Governing Body has prepared a list of this year’s capital and overall capital which totals approximately $6 million. Much discussion took place regarding the projects and the overall costs. Mayor Maio asked Mr. Sarinelli if the Borough should go with bonding for everything or should the water and sewer portion, which totals over $1 million, go to the Infrastructure Trust. Mr. Sarinelli stated the NJEIT will provide a better interest rate and the costs of issuing debt through NJEIT are generally much lower. Mayor Maio stated she is concerned about the results of the flow meter monitoring. Repairs may be needed. Mayor Maio is of the opinion NJEIT should be utilized and the other projects should be bonded. Mr. Sarinelli agreed and stated they can be done at different times. Administrator McNeilly stated this requires moving funds around. The general one has road work included which dictates water work to be done. The water work will automatically trigger a rate increase. There is no more moving around of money which can cover the amount of money to be borrowed to do this project. Mr. Sarinelli stated the trust provides a loan half at market rate and half at approximately half of the market rate. Administrator McNeilly stated the forgiveness the Borough received was good but the Borough originally borrowed $2.3 million. This ended up to be $1.8 million and the payment per year for twenty years is approximately $112,000. Water would have to come up with another $112,000. Councilwoman Kuncken asked Mr. Sarinelli what he is comfortable with. Mr. Sarinelli stated decisions need to be made with regard to the other expenses which have not been decided. The Borough is in the range to bond this amount and it should be less in total debt service than what you are paying now. The budget includes $400,000 and the Borough may be paying something close to that but it will be locked in at an interest rate of 2%-3% for the next 15-20 years. Mr. Sarinelli stated once the other decisions regarding the projects are made he can discuss with bond counsel what the useful life is and if the payments can be stretched out longer. If the figure is $3.5 million or $3.8 million in current fund operation can that be bonded long enough in order for that debt service to be lower than the $400,000 being paid now. This would leave some room to continue to do capital and step up the interest payment on the new capital over time. Utilities are a separate issue. Mayor Maio stated the Governing Body needs to make final determinations. Mr. Sarinelli stated the figures will not be prepared in time for this note rollover. Mayor Maio stated the figure for the municipal building is the only amount which is unknown at this time. Mr. Sarinelli suggested rolling the notes over for a year in order to provide more time to evaluate what should be done with the building.

Administrator McNeilly recommended asking the finance department what the impact would be to the water rate for some of the items from the list specifically Young Drive, Maryann Terrace, the section of water work through Roberts Place, Lakeview, Central Avenue and Walton Street which totals almost $1.5 million and the water work from the Highland Avenue loop and the East Drive loop which totals almost a quarter million dollars. If the $1.8 million is borrowed from the NJEIT, those funds would be paid back entirely through the utilities. Having a rough estimate would be beneficial. Mr. Sarinelli calculated there would be an approximate increase of 25% in the water rate to generate another $140,000. Administrator McNeilly stated the road project for Young Drive and Maryann Terrace totals $943,000, which would be included in the bond, is tied to the water projects. Much discussion took place regarding the importance of the water projects. Councilwoman Kuncken asked Mr. Sarinelli what the time frame is for coming to a decision. Mr. Sarinelli stated in order to move forward with bonding and to include the road projects, the capital ordinances have to be in place, the bonding authorization has to be in place and the commitment to do it. This should be complete by the end of August. Decisions will have to be made this month. Dana Mooney, CFO, asked if there is more being added than what is on the capital plan. Ms. Mooney is concerned there will not be enough capital improvement fund money for the deposit if additional projects are being added. Administrator McNeilly asked if the long term plan list of projects can be put into the plan which would get authorized at the reorganization meeting and become part of the temporary budget. Mr. Sarinelli confirmed this can be done. Administrator McNeilly stated it can be prepared in the fall for the reorganization meeting as the temporary capital plan with improvement fund money in the temporary budget. This will provide enough time to obtain the figures for the municipal building and make final determinations. Councilwoman Kuncken asked Mr. Sarinelli if he is going to be comfortable with the amount of debt service the Borough will have to pay every year. Mr. Sarinelli stated he needs to do a closer study of the actual figures and some of it has to do with useful life, but he thinks the Borough will be alright. Mr. Sarinelli reviewed the plan which is to roll the notes over until next May. The Governing Body’s objective is to move through the capital plan and determine how much will be spent. Once that information is obtained, in the fall bond counsel will be contacted to determine what the useful life is and see if the Borough can enter into a bonded situation. Next year the capital improvement fund will be available and then the Borough can move forward with all the capital projects and have a bond sale next May.

Budget – Mr. Sarinelli stated this is not a State review year for the budget. The Borough has already done the proper procedures to move forward with the self-examination and adoption of the budget tonight. The total budget is $4,826,000 which is an increase of $62,000 over last year. The tax levy is $3,399,000 which is an increase of approximately $48,500. In taxes this is a 1.6 cent increase or about 1.4%. The levy cap and the appropriation cap are both under. Mr. Sarinelli stated he noticed $100,000 less was used in surplus which is very good planning and the debt service was reduced by $72,000. The largest expense is the pension expense. The Police and Fire is $39,000 and the PERS is $9,000. This increased the budget by $48,000. Councilwoman Kuncken stated these expenses are beyond the Borough’s control. Mr. Sarinelli stated coincidentally the tax levy increased by $48,000. Mr. Sarinelli stated the Borough watches every penny and how it is spent which is very important.

Dana Mooney, CFO, stated the overall budget has decreased, not increased as Mr. Sarinelli had stated. Mr. Sarinelli reviewed the figures and confirmed that Ms. Mooney is correct. Last year’s budget was $4,884,000 and this year’s budget is $4,826,000. The budget is less due to the reduction of the $100,000 fund balance and paying less debt service.

Mayor Maio thanked Mr. Sarinelli for his assistance and input. Mayor Maio amended the agenda by moving the adoption of the budget forward.

OLD BUSINESS

PUBLIC HEARING AND ADOPTION OF THE 2018 MUNICIPAL BUDGET

Resolution 073-18 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE AUTHORIZING READING OF THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET BY TITLE

WHEREAS, N.J.S.40A:4-8 provides that the budget may be ready by title only at the time of the public hearing if a resolution is passed by not less than a majority of the full Governing Body, provided that at least one (1) week prior to the date of public hearing a complete copy of the approved budget, as advertised, has been posted in the Municipal Building and copies have been made available by the Clerk to persons requesting them; and

WHEREAS, these conditions have been met;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the 2018 Municipal Budget shall be read by title at this Public Hearing for same.

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

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

Resolution 074-18 Resolution of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope Adopting the 2018 Municipal Budget

BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, that the budget herein before set forth is hereby adopted and shall constitute an appropriation for the purposes stated of the sums therein set forth as appropriations, and authorization of the amount of $4,826,169.00 for municipal purposes.

On motion by Councilwoman Zdichocki, seconded by Councilman Riccardi, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.

Mayor Maio opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Maio closed the public portion of the meeting.

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

Mayor Maio and the Governing Body thanked Mr. Sarinelli and Ms. Mooney for attending this evenings meeting.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Lake Musconetcong – Administrator McNeilly stated he sent an email to Melissa from the NJ State Park asking for the draw down refill information on the lake. In addition he has requested an update on the timeline for the work on the dam as well as the Borough’s portion of the project.

Environmental Commission – Administrator McNeilly stated he has notified Owen Newson and John Rogalo from the Environmental Commission regarding the Governing Body’s wishes for the commission to put their focus on the Plaster Mill site. The plantings for Lakeside Park still need to be discussed.

Environmental Commission Open Space Plan – Administrator McNeilly stated a question was raised at the last meeting regarding the Borough’s Open Space Plan. Administrator McNeilly stated he has reviewed the plan and it is dated 2009. In order to apply for open space funds from the State of New Jersey, such as Green Acres, the plan must be no older than 10 years. Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, stated as part of the Municipal Land Use Law, if the plan is not reviewed every 10 years, there is a presumption of the validity and it is unenforceable. Mayor Maio stated this was an issue through the Land Use Board. Mayor Maio stated she will work on appointing members for an Open Space Committee.

Clean Up Day, Shred Day, E-Recycling – Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough is set up for Shred Day and E-Recycling on April 21^st. Clean Up Day will be on April 22^nd. All the required notices have been sent and posted. No glass tube televisions will be accepted.

Condominium Services Agreement 2017 – Administrator McNeilly stated the calculations for Highpoint and Stonegate Condominiums are complete and they have been given to the Borough Attorney to send to their attorneys.

Borough Ordinance 133-53 – Administrator McNeilly stated he received an email from the Municipal Court Clerk regarding a ticket that had to be tossed out due to the language in the Borough Code Book. The ordinance specifically states parking must be between the white lines. The lines in the lot are yellow. Administrator McNeilly suggested Ordinance 133-53 be corrected to read parking between the painted lines. The ordinance can then be placed on the April 24^thAgenda.

Capital 2018 – Administrator McNeilly provided the final break out for the 2018 Capital Budget as it was discussed during the budget process. The Capital Budget is ready for introduction at the April 24^th meeting with the second reading, a public hearing, at the May 8^th meeting. If the Capital Budget is passed at the May 8^th meeting, the funds will become available on or around June 1^st. Mayor Maio asked to have the Capital for 2018 added to Council Discussion for the next scheduled meeting.

Houston-Galveston Area Council – Administrator McNeilly stated in order to shorten the timeline for the Fire Truck purchase and to realize a cost savings, it is recommended that the Borough join the Houston-Galveston Co-op. If this is acceptable, a resolution can be added to the agenda for the April 24^th meeting and then the application can be submitted. Attorney Leo stated under NJ statutory law regarding the bidding process this is allowed. There is a Local Finance Notice from 2012 that specifically deals with the out of state co-ops. There are certain provisions to be checked. Attorney Leo stated she does not see any issues with using this co-op. Other municipalities in Sussex County have used this particular co-op. Administrator McNeilly stated using the co-op will speed up the process. No bid packets or bonds will be needed. There will also be a cost saving. The Borough has benefitted from other co-op purchases such as the sewer jet and the backhoe which had a $48,000 savings. Councilwoman Kuncken asked if the Fire Chief has been informed that Attorney Leo approves of the co-op. Administrator McNeilly stated he was waiting for approval from the Governing Body before informing the Fire Chief. Councilman Riccardi asked Attorney Leo what requirements are necessary. Attorney Leo stated the list of requirements.

Hydrorake – Administrator McNeilly stated the Hydrorake will be transported from the storage location at Wells 3 and 4 to the lake on Friday. The Hyrdorake cannot be transported across the iron bridge and will have to be brought to the lake by way of Mount Olive. The Netcong Police Department will provide an escort. The conveyor will be put in place as well. Mayor Maio stated the Lake Musconetcong Regional Planning Board received permission and assurances from the State that they will pick up a lot of the cost with regard to the removal of the debris from the lake. Administrator McNeilly stated one of the ongoing issues is that the conveyor dumps the debris into the dumpster in the same spot all the time. The older backhoe will be kept inside the fence at Well #2 and once a week the backhoe will be used to move the debris as necessary within the dumpster. Mayor Maio stated all the municipalities have a share in the responsibilities.

Annual Official’s Training – Administrator McNeilly stated he is waiting for a reply from Wayne Dietz regarding the date for the annual official’s training.

FEMA AFG Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated the FEMA AFG Grant that the Fire Department applied for was denied. The request was for five additional PPE’s (turnout gear).

Eagle Scout Project – Mayor Maio stated a young man has asked to do some work at Salmon Park as his Eagle Scout Project. He will clean up the debris in the park area, place two benches facing the canal and will restripe the basketball court. He will contact Administrator McNeilly with his plan for painting the stripes. Administrator McNeilly stated this young man’s brother was the Boy Scout who did his Eagle Scout Project at Musconetcong Park.

WORK SESSION

TAP Grant – Mayor Maio stated no further information is available at this time.

Amend Base Billing Rate for Municipal Water and Sewer Service – Mayor Maio stated no further discussion is needed at this time.

Fire Department Bucket Drop Request – Mayor Maio stated the Fire Department has requested approval to conduct a bucket drop. Ray Wexler is the Fire Department contact person. Administrator McNeilly stated the request is the same as last year. The locations are as follows: Brooklyn Road near Route 183, Sparta Road near Brooklyn Road, Linden Avenue between McKinley Street and Route 183 and Dell Road near Route 183. If there is not enough manpower, all the locations will not be utilized. Mayor Maio asked the Governing Body if there are any objections. There were no objections. A resolution will be prepared for the next scheduled meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

ORDINANCES

Mayor Maio offered the following ordinances for Introduction and First Reading which were read by title:

Ordinance for Introduction and First Reading [Public Hearing on April 24, 2018]

Ordinance 2018-05 AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY FIXING THE SALARY AND WAGES FOR BOROUGH EMPLOYEES AND OFFICIALS

BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey as follows:

SECTION 1. That the Annual salary, wage and compensation to be paid to Borough employees and officials in 2017 be as follows:

Mayor $ 3,013.00
Borough Council Member 2,739.00
Administrator 109,742.00
Borough Clerk 61,294.00
Deputy Borough Clerk 36,403.00
Registrar 3,713.00
Deputy Registrar 1,789.00
Website Content Manager 3,687.00
Chief Financial Officer/
Tax Collector 100,757.00
Utility Collector/
Asst to Tax Collector 38,186.00
Accounts Payable 23,176.00
Tax Assessor 20,035.00
Custodian 7,880.00

POLICE DEPARTMENT
Chief of Police As per contract
Sergeant As per contract
Sergeant’s Stipend As per contract
Detective’s Stipend As per contract
Patrolman As per contract
Clerk Typist – Police Dept. 34,729.00
Police Matron $22.43 per hour
Police Matron – Call-out $50.00 per call-out
Special Officer $21.72 per hour
Crossing Guard $15.21 per hour

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Acting D.P.W. Superintendent $ 67,155.00
Water Operator 5,342.00
Sewer Operator 5,342.00
Water T-1 License Stipend 3,500.00
Public Works Repairer As per contract
Laborer As per contract
Part-time Laborer $12.00 to $12.86 per hour
Seasonal Help $14.25 per hour

CONSTRUCTION DEPARTMENT
Construction Official 23,343.00
Fire Subcode Official 3,174.00
Plumbing Subcode Official 3,649.00
Zoning Officer 10,998.00
Code Enforcement Officer 11,448.00
Municipal Housing Stipend 2,016.00
Clerical –Construction 8,427.00

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS:
Land Use Secretary $ 9,510.00
Board of Health Secretary 4,491.00
Secretary to:
Shade Tree $25.00 per month*
Environmental Commission $25.00 per month*
Recreation Commission $25.00 per month*
*submission of monthly minutes required.

SECTION 2. Salaries and wages for all Borough employees and officials shall be paid in bi-weekly installments as nearly equal as possible.

SECTION 3. Unless otherwise provided herein, remuneration for all employees shall be retroactive to January 1^st of each year.

SECTION 4. The salaries and wages herein established shall be in lieu of any and all fees to which the respective incumbents of said offices might otherwise be entitled by statute or ordinance; which fees shall immediately upon collection thereof be paid over to the Treasurer for use of the Borough except as otherwise provided herein.

SECTION 5. The Borough shall pay medical insurance premiums in accordance with State law, collective bargaining agreements and the Borough’s elected participation in any State health benefit program for all eligible employees and their eligible dependents.

SECTION 6. The terms and conditions of all collective bargaining agreements negotiated between the Borough and any bargaining unit representing Borough employees are hereby incorporated into this Ordinance.

SECTION 7. All Ordinances and Resolutions, or parts thereof, inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.

SECTION 8. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon final adoption and publication as required by law

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

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

On motion by Councilwoman Zdichocki, 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.

Mayor Maio pulled the following ordinance from the agenda.

Ordinance 2018-06 ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 82 OF THE CODE ENTITLED “FEES” BY AMENDING THE BASE BILLING RATE FOR MUNICIPAL WATER AND SEWER SERVICE

RESOLUTIONS

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

Resolution 075-18 RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE CLICK IT OR TICKET SEAT BELT MOBILIZATION FOR MAY 21 THROUGH JUNE 3, 2018

WHEREAS, a large percentage of the motor vehicle occupants killed in traffic crashes were not wearing a safety belt; and

WHEREAS, use of a safety belt remains the most effective way to avoid death or serious injury in a motor vehicle crash; and

WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey will participate in the nationwide Click It or Ticket seat belt mobilization from May 21 through June 3, 2018 in an effort to raise awareness and increase seat belt usage through a combination of enforcement and education; and

WHEREAS, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety has set a goal of increasing the seat belt usage rate by 1.5% to 95.5% through a targeted two-week seat belt enforcement campaign; and

WHEREAS, a further increase in seat belt usage in New Jersey will save lives on our roadways;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope declares its support for the Click It or Ticket seat belt mobilization both locally and nationally from May 21 through June 3, 2018 and pledges to increase awareness of the mobilization and the benefits of seat belt use.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope authorizes the filing of an application for a grant for Click It or Ticket 2018 Seat Belt Mobilization.

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

Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – 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 076-18 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. 2016-004, representing property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11004, Lot 4, known as 9 Ridge Road, assessed to Matthew T. O’Brien, 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: Stuart Lasher
P.O. Box 83
Milltown, NJ 08850

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2016-004 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,578.12
Premium Paid by Lienholder 200.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,578.12
Total From Tax Premium Account 200.00

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 077-18 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. 2016-015, representing 2015 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11402, Lot 51, known as 4 Elizabeth Ave, assessed to Miguel A Otero, 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 BV002 Trust & Creditors
50 S. 16^th Street, Suite 2050
Philadelphia, PA 19102-2513

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2016-015 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 34,550.48
Premium Paid by Lienholder 19,100.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 34,550.48
Total From Tax Premium Account 19,100.00

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

Resolution 078-18 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. 2017-012, representing 2016 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11501, Lot 2, C0030, known as 330 Alpine Ct, assessed to Christopher Baulier, 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 Actlien Holding Inc.
50 South 16^th Street, Suite 2050
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2017-012 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,180.69
Premium Paid by Lienholder 0.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,180.69
Total From Tax Premium Account 0.00

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

Resolution 079-18 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. 2017-005, representing 2016 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11103, Lot 3, known as 32 Musconetcong Ave, assessed to Panagioti Ziakos, 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 Actlien Holding Inc.
50 South 16^th Street, Suite 2050
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2017-005 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,318.32
Premium Paid by Lienholder 700.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,318.32
Total From Tax Premium Account 700.00

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 Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.

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

PAYMENT OF BILLS

Resolution 080-18 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 April 10, 2018 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:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes

AGENDA ITEMS
All items listed on the Agenda for April 24, 2018 were approved. Ordinance 2018-06 will be placed on the agenda for introduction, not for final adoption.

Arbor Day – Ellen Horak, Borough Clerk, stated the Valley Road School Arbor Day Program will take place on Tuesday, April 24^th at 1:15pm with a rain date of Thursday, April 26^th. Mayor Maio asked Ms. Horak to prepare a proclamation to be presented to the school on the day of the program. Mayor Maio, Councilwoman Kuncken, Councilman Thornton and Councilman Riccardi stated they will be attending.

ATTORNEY REPORT
Attorney Leo had no report.

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.

CLOSED SESSION
WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231 P.L. 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances; and

WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist.

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

1. The public shall be excluded from discussion of and action upon the hereinafter-specified subject matter(s).

2. The general nature of the subject matter(s) to be discussed is as follows:

1 – Litigation – Chief Pittigher

3. 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.

4. This resolution shall take effect immediately.

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

The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 8:10 P.M.

RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 8:20 P.M. with all present.

ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Thornton, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 P.M.

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

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Borough of Stanhope