MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
August 24, 2021
7:00 P.M
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CALL TO ORDER
SALUTE TO COLORS
Mayor Zdichocki 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 13, 2021 and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and on the official website of the Borough of Stanhope.
Furthermore, notice of the change in the meeting location was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on June 9, 2021 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:
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Vance – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wronko – present
Mayor Zdichocki – present
CITIZENS TO BE HEARD
Mayor Zdichocki 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 Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Zdichocki read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
July 13, 2021 Work Session/Agenda Meeting
July 27, 2021 Business Meeting
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Vance and carried by a majority voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved. Councilwoman Kuncken and Councilman Romano abstained from the July 27, 2021 minutes.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by voice vote, the list of correspondence was accepted and ordered placed on file.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
Public Safety – Councilwoman Kuncken/CouncilmanThornton
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Marshal’s report for the month of July states there were no incidents or complaints responded to. There was one inspection at the Valley Road School and there were no violations.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Police Department for the month of July had 118 motor vehicle stops and the total number of calls for the month was 266.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Ambulance Squad for the month of May answered 18 calls in Stanhope, 22 calls in Netcong for a total of 40 calls. There were 4 out of town calls. Two calls to Hopatcong and 2 calls to Mt. Olive. The squad treated 36 patients and made 23 trips to the hospital. For the month of June, the Ambulance Squad answered 15 calls in Stanhope, 26 calls in Netcong for a total of 41 calls. There was 1 out of town call to Byram and 5 to Hopatcong. The squad treated 33 patients and made 29 trips to the hospital. They travelled 899 miles for a total of 243 hours and 26 minutes of volunteer hours.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Department did not submit a report for this month.
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilwoman Kuncken
Councilman Romano stated the tax collections for the month of July totaled $697,041.96. The year to date total is $6,740,318.57. The Borough has collected almost 98% of the first and second quarter taxes and a little under 20% for the third quarter.
Councilman Romano stated the water collections for the month of July were $47,607.18. The sewer collections for the month totaled $60,068.57. Councilman Romano stated he consulted with the CFO regarding the lower collection rate. The CFO indicated the difference is due to when the bills were sent out. Currently the collections are where they should be with regard to the budget. The collection rate is at 52% for the year.
Councilman Romano stated a letter has been received from the Stanhope Senior Citizens Group requesting their budget allocation. The budget allocation is $3,000. Last year, the Senior Citizens did not receive the full allocation because they were not meeting. The Senior Citizens Group and the Little League Organization are two groups that the Borough makes contributions to. Councilman Romano is of the opinion the Borough should be consistent in the way the funds are allocated. The Little League is funded on a per person, Stanhope resident basis. Councilman Romano recommended that the Senior Citizens Group be funded in the same way beginning next year. Based on the $3,000 budget and the number of members this year of 46, the per person rate would be between $60 – $64. Both membership organizations would then be treated in the same way and the tax payer’s funds would be allocated in the same way. Mayor Zdichocki stated this topic can be discussed during Council Discussion. The Little League has a set membership number at registration but the Senior’s membership is constantly changing.
Councilman Romano stated a letter was received in correspondence last week stating that Maria Mascuch completed her tax collection course and received her tax collector certification. Councilman Romano commended Ms. Mascuch, and all the employees, for taking advantage of the professional opportunities that the Borough affords and pays for. Ms. Mascuch did an exceptionally good job under difficult circumstances. The classes were attended from home, not in a classroom.
Community Development – Councilman Wronko/Councilman Riccardi
Councilman Wronko stated there were 14 construction permits issued for the month of July. There are two events coming up. The first is the Pig Roast Fundraiser on September 10th and the 20th Anniversary September 11th Memorial Service to be held on September 11th. Both events are rain or shine.
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Wronko
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
No report was given due to Councilman Thornton’s absence.
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Vance
Councilman Riccardi stated he had no report.
Boards/Commissions – Councilman Vance/Councilman Romano
Councilman Vance stated he reported on the progress of the Land Use Board meetings at last months meeting. The monthly reports, which the governing body has received, contain the Land Use Board meeting minutes from July. The Recreation Commission has received a resignation. There is an ordinance on tonight’s agenda for introduction regarding a change to the Shade Tree Commission ordinance. Mayor Zdichocki stated a verbal resignation was received from a member of the Recreation Commission but nothing has been received in writing to date.
Councilman Romano asked Councilman Vance for his opinion on where the Junto’s application with the Land Use Board stands at this time. Councilman Vance stated it is all about parking. There are 39 parking spots but they are required to have 46 parking spots. The applicant is scheduled to appear at the September meeting to discuss the issue further.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Stanhope Pedestrian Loop Phase 2 – Administrator McNeilly stated the work for the Stanhope Pedestrian Loop Phase 2 project is ongoing. On the Stanhope School path, the light bases and conduits have been installed. The connection to the Stanhope School building will take place this week, along with ground restoration. On the Lenape path, the light bases are installed and the conduit will be installed this week. The water table is high and required the use of sump pumps to keep it dry enough to pour and set the concrete. The rock ledge is also slowing the installation. The path had already been cleared and then the storm dropped trees along the path which was cleared this morning. This week and next week on Sparta Road, the construction signage will be posted and the erosion control devices for the project will be installed. The light bases will begin to be installed on August 30th. Work on Lenape Drive will begin during the second week in September. The resurfacing of the path will be done on Columbus Day when school is not in session. In mid-October there will be a pause when the contractor, Schiffano, will be able to come in and mill and pave the road. The striping will be done afterwards. Administrator McNeilly stated it may be difficult to get the plantings in place during this calendar year.
Baker Place Water Main – Administrator McNeilly stated hopefully Regal Utility Services will have all the required documents on file with the Clerk’s office this week and the signed contracts. The tentative plan is to begin work on Friday, August 27th. The door to door notices for Baker Place, Highland Avenue and North Central Avenue will go out over the next two days.
Highland Avenue / Baker Place Paving – Administrator McNeilly stated the bid opening for the road resurfacing is scheduled for August 31st at 2:00PM. If a good bid is received, it is anticipated the award of contract will be on the agenda for September 14th.
Dell Road – Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW did a great job on the catch basin installations on Dell Road. The final trench repair will take place in early September. Administrator McNeilly stated he was on Dell Road during the storm this past Sunday and the basins were doing exactly what they are supposed to.
Kelly Place, Old Waterloo Road and Furnace Street Project – Administrator McNeilly stated the approval to proceed from the NJDOT has been received. The bid notice was placed in the newspaper and the Borough Engineer, Eric Keller, has delivered the bid packets to the Clerk’s office. The bid opening is scheduled for September 21st with a possible award date of September 28th.
Route 206 Gas Station Fire – Administrator McNeilly stated the gas station located on Route 206 suffered a serious accident on August 16th. The fire was caused by a truck from the highway. Guide wires on a telephone pole usually do one of two things. They either cut a car in half or cause it to pole vault. This truck was travelling so fast it sheared them right off. The quick action by the onsite staff, as well as the Stanhope Fire Department response, enabled the fire to be extinguished quickly with no loss of life. The Construction Official, Thomas Pershouse, worked closely with the business owner and his staff to review and inspect all the systems. The station was granted approval to reopen on August 21st to utilize the remaining undamaged portion of the station. The new gas station had only been open a week when this event occurred.
Surplus Equipment – Administrator McNeilly stated there is a resolution on tonight’s agenda authorizing the sale of surplus vehicles through Municibid. The first bid will go up next week.
Maple Terrace / Brooklyn Road Pedestrian Crossing – Administrator McNeilly stated the Sussex County Engineering Department is preparing the agreement for the Maple Terrace/Brooklyn Road Pedestrian Crossing. Once the agreement is reviewed, a resolution will be prepared permitting the Mayor to sign the agreement. This will become a spring/summer 2022 project for Sussex County. The landings on each side of the crosswalk are not flat and may pose some challenges. Administrator McNeilly stated he sent an email to the governing body showing the current condition of the striping at this crossing which is in very good condition and requires no maintenance at this time.
Budget 2022 – Administrator McNeilly stated the departments, boards and commissions budgets and capital budgets are due by September 16, 2021.
CRC Guidelines – Administrator McNeilly stated the CRC has released the lengthy cannabis guideline document. If they had released the municipal information which appears on just a few pages a few months ago, things would have been handled differently statewide.
Road Closures – Administrator McNeilly stated a straw poll was done at the last meeting to approve the road closure for the Fire Department to conduct their drill on Kelly Place. At this time a straw poll is needed to approve the road closure for the September 11th Memorial Service at Musconetcong Park on September 11th from 8:00am to 12:00pm from Maple Avenue to Towpath Lane. Mayor Zdichocki took a straw poll to approve the road closure for the September 11th Memorial Service. The results are as follows: Councilman Romano – yes, Councilman Riccardi – yes, Councilwoman Kuncken – yes, Councilman Vance – yes, Councilman Wronko – yes. Approval was granted.
Light Bases – Councilman Riccardi asked Administrator McNeilly if there is any concern with regard to the light bases being installed where the water table is high and requires the sump pump to install them. Administrator McNeilly stated there is no concern. The light bases are very large and are set deeply.
Dell Road – Councilman Riccardi asked when the patching of Dell Road will take place to complete the job. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough Engineer is contacting the co-op to set a date for the paving. Once the trench is repaired the paving company will come in and complete the project. Currently, the patch in the road is hardly noticeable.
Budget – Councilman Riccardi stated the mayor and council received an email from the CFO regarding the transfer of a $10,000 budget amount for the insurance. Administrator McNeilly stated funds are allocated to self-fund the deductible for the Borough’s insurance. The CFO needs to move those funds into a dedicated trust account. The Borough has several established trusts such as the snow and brush removal trust and the unused sick and vacation trust. The funds for the insurance will now be moved into their own trust account.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Senior Citizens Group Budget Allocation – Councilman Romano stated the Stanhope Senior Citizens Group has a $3,000-line item. Councilman Romano stated the Seniors have asked for two months of payments. Councilman Romano stated he spoke with the CFO who informed him the funds are dispersed regardless, not monthly. Last year, a meeting was not held with the Seniors due to the pandemic and the Seniors were not conducting meetings. The Seniors received a $1,500 payment last year. Councilman Romano asked the governing body how much of the $3,000 should be dispersed to the Seniors. Mayor Zdichocki stated last year the Seniors did not meet for the first half of the year and when they were going to begin meeting again they asked for $1,500, which was dispersed to them. The group met one time for their reorganization and then did not meet again. Much discussion took place regarding the fact the Seniors fiscal year is different than the Borough’s. The Borough’s fiscal year is from January 1st to December 31st. The Seniors fiscal year starts in August. Councilman Romano stated the Seniors are not required to report how the funds they receive are spent. The Seniors just began meeting again and will probably meet for six months this year. The Mayor and Council do not monitor the Seniors expenses. Councilman Romano recommended the budget for next year should be based on the number of Stanhope residents who are members of the Seniors Group. A date such as January 1, 2022 should be chosen and the number of Stanhope members at that time will determine the amount of funds they receive. The Little League is funded based on membership and Councilman Romano is of the opinion the organizations should all be funded in the same manner and this should be discussed during the planning for next year’s budget. Mayor Zdichocki stated the membership in the Seniors Group constantly changes. Councilman Wronko asked if a meeting could be held with the Seniors to find out how the funds provided by the Borough assist the group. Mayor Zdichocki stated Councilman Wronko can attend the Seniors meeting to find out how the funds are allocated. A finance report is given at each of their meetings.
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, approval was given to disperse $1,500 to the Stanhope Seniors Group for the balance of 2021.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
CRC Cannabis Regulations – Councilman Riccardi stated, as Administrator McNeilly mentioned earlier, the CRC has released a very lengthy document outlining the Cannabis Regulations. The summary provided is good but does not detail the information that applies specifically to the municipalities. The requirements state the municipalities can determine the number of businesses, local licensing, penalties, hours of operation etc. Councilman Riccardi asked the governing body to read the information and review the sample ordinance provided by Councilman Wronko earlier this month in order to discuss this issue in the future. There had been a concern that the State would issue requirements which would override the municipalities, but that does not seem to be the case. Much discussion took place regarding the various requirements and fees. Administrator McNeilly stated he is concerned about the possible runoff and odor issues.
NEW BUSINESS
ORDINANCE
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following ordinance for introduction which was read by title.
Ordinance for Introduction and First Reading [Public Hearing on September 14, 2021]
Ordinance 2021-14 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 53 “SHADE TREE COMMISSION” OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE TO AMEND SECTIONS 53-6 AND 53-7
WHEREAS, the Borough desires to amend certain prohibited acts on private, firm or corporation property and the violations and penalties with regards to the Borough’s Shade Tree Commission.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope has reviewed the Borough Code regarding the Shade Tree Commission and has determined that the revisions to Sections 53-6 and 53-7are required, as follows:
SECTION 1:
Section 53-6B shall be deleted in its entirety and shall be replaced as follows:
B. On private, firm or corporation property:
(1) Except as herein provided, no person shall willfully, carelessly or negligently remove, cut down or injure two or more living trees having a diameter of four inches or more or a circumference of twelve and one half (12.6) inches (dogwood and American holly, one inch) at a distance of four feet measured from the ground within a twelve (12) month period. The acts prohibited in this subsection may be allowed upon the issuance of a permit approved by the Shade Tree Commission. Permits are issued at no cost to single family or two-family dwelling applicants occupied by the owner. An application for a permit must be filed with the Shade Tree Commission and a site inspection must be made prior to approval and tree removal.
Tree removal permits are effective for only three (3) months from date of issue.
(2) Upon application for a major or minor subdivision and/or site plan, the applicant shall indicate therein the location of all trees and designate which trees, if any, are to be removed and the types of trees and/or shrubbery to be planted for aesthetic purposes. A copy thereof shall be filed with the Shade Tree Commission, which shall review the same and notify the Land Use Board of its approval or disapproval. If the plans are not acted upon by the Shade Tree Commission within 10 days after the reference, the same shall be deemed approved. The Land Use Board shall issue approval only upon approval by the Shade Tree Commission or upon expiration of said 10 days.
SECTION 2:
Section 53-7 shall be deleted in its entirety and shall be replaced as follows:
Any person violating any provision of this chapter shall, upon conviction, be punishable by a fine not exceeding $1,000 (nor less than $100) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 90 days or a period of community service not exceeding 90 days, or any combination thereof.
SECTION 3 – SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 4 – REPEALER
All ordinances or parts of ordinances or resolutions that are inconsistent or in opposition to the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION 5: EFFECTIVE DATE
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was introduced.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Wronko, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 158-21 RESOLUTION TO AMEND BUDGET TO INCLUDE GRANT FUNDS FROM THE 2021 AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-87 provides that the Director of the Division of Local Government Services may approve the insertion of any special item of revenue in the budget of any county or municipality when such item shall have been made available by law and the amount thereof was not determined at the time of the adoption of the budget, and
WHEREAS, said Director may also approve the insertion of an item of appropriation for an equal amount, and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope has received a total of $173,017.12 from the Federal Government via the State of New Jersey for the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope now wishes to amend its 2021 budget to include the additional grant funds approved of $173,017.12 as a revenue.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Borough of Stanhope does hereby requests the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of an item of revenue in the budget of the year 2021 in the sum of $173,017.12, which will be available as a revenue from:
Miscellaneous Revenues
Special Items of General Revenue Anticipated with Prior Written
Consent of the Director of Local Government Services – Public And Private Revenues Offset with Appropriations: 2021 American Rescue Plan Act
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a like sum of…………………………$173,017.12
be and the same is hereby appropriated under the caption of:
General Appropriations
- Public and Private Programs Offset by Revenues:
2021 American Rescue Plan Act, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chief Financial Officer shall submit one copy of the Chapter 159 certification form to the Director of Local Government Services.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 159-21 RESOLUTION AMENDING 2021 BUDGET TO INCLUDE 2021 BODY-WORN CAMERA GRANT OF $18,342.00
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-87 provides that the Director of the Division of Local Government Services may approve the insertion of any special item of revenue in the budget of any county or municipality when such item shall have been made available by law and the amount thereof was not determined at the time of the adoption of the budget, and
WHEREAS, said Director may also approve the insertion of an item of appropriation for an equal amount, and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope has received a total of $18,342.00 from the NJ Department of Law & Public Safety, Office of the Attorney General for the 2021 Body-Worn Camera Grant, and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope now wishes to amend its 2021 budget to include the additional grant funds approved of $18,342.00 as a revenue.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Borough of Stanhope does hereby request the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of an item of revenue in the budget of the year 2021 in the sum of $18,342.00, which will be available as a revenue from:
Miscellaneous Revenues
Special Items of General Revenue Anticipated with Prior Written Consent of the Director of Local Government Services – Public And Private Revenues Offset with Appropriations: 2021 Body-Worn Camera Grant, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a like sum of…………………………$18,342.00
be and the same is hereby appropriated under the caption of:
General Appropriations
- Public and Private Programs Offset by Revenues:
2021 Body-Worn Camera Grant, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chief Financial Officer submit one copy of the Chapter 159 certification form to the Director of Local Government Services.
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – 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 160-21 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A REFUND OF CASH GIFT
WHEREAS, Patricia Barile sent $10.00 cash through the US mail, addressed to Officer Corey Kunzer; and
WHEREAS, NJ statutes do not allow for cash gifts to government employees for performing their duties; and
WHEREAS, the Ms. Barile lives out of state and it is cost-prohibitive to drive across state lines to return the gift, nor can we put cash in the US mail.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that a warrant be drawn to the person named below in the designated amount representing a return of a cash gift, as follows:
Patricia Barile $10.00
215 Michael Koury Place, Apt. 2 E
Easton, PA 18042
Resolution 161-21 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PUBLIC SALE OF BOROUGH PROPERTY NO LONGER NEEDED FOR PUBLIC USE THROUGH MUNICIBID.COM PUBLIC AUCTION
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope is the owner of certain property which is no longer needed for public use; and
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-36 authorizes municipalities to sell public property that is no longer needed for public use at a public sale to the highest bidder as surplus property; and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope desires to sell such surplus property in “as is” condition without express or implied warranties.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Borough of Stanhope hereby authorizes the sale of Borough property no longer needed for public use; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the public auction shall be conducted through the Municibid.com public online auction pursuant N.J.S.A. 40A:11-36, Local Finance Notice 2008-9 of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Division of Local Government Services; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the sale of surplus property to be sold in “as is” condition without expressed or implied warranties is as follows:
ITEM MINIMUM BID
1981 Ford Sewer Jet 1FDNF60H0BVA027 $400.00
1994 Ford L8000 Dump Truck 1FDYK82E9RVA14740 $300.00
2005 Ford F-350 Pick-up 1FTWF31Y95EB79180 $100.00
2005 Dodge Durango SUV 1D4HB38N75F578960 $100.00
2009 Ford Explorer SUV 1FMEU73E99UA13812 $100.00
2011 Ford Crown Victoria 2FABP7BV8BX107426 No Minimum
2011 Ford Crown Victoria 2FABP7BVXBX107427 No Minimum
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Borough of Stanhope reserves the right to accept or reject any bid submitted; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Borough Administrator is hereby authorized and directed to conduct the Sale, accept the proceeds in cash or certified check from the highest bidder; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the successful bidder(s) shall be required to pay the full amount of the sale and shall be required to make arrangements for the pick-up of sold property from the Borough of Stanhope within 10 business days of the auction; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if no Bids are received for all or a portion of the surplus property herein relevant, the property may be sold at a private sale without further publication but at no less than the estimated Fair Market Value unless the Administrator of the Borough of Stanhope shall recommend that the property be re-offered at Public Sale; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all other Borough officials and employees are hereby authorized and directed to take all action necessary and appropriate to effectuate the terms of this Resolution.
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Mayor’s Appointment
Resolution 162-21 Resolution Approving The Mayor’s Appointment Of Emanuel Bookspan, As A Member Of The Stanhope Fire Department
Mayor’s appointment of Emanuel Bookspan, 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 Emanuel Bookspan, as a Member of the Stanhope Fire Department effective immediately.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Mayor Zdichocki and the council members thanked Mr. Bookspan, present in the audience, for his service as a member of the Stanhope Fire Department.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 163-21 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 August 24, 2021 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.
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution
Resolution 164-21 RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE AGREEMENT WITH FORTUNATO MONTELLA
BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the Settlement and Release Agreement for Fortunato Montella and release the settlement amount of $16,591.93 to Mr. Montella.
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
Councilman Thornton – absent
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
ATTORNEY REPORT
Jonathan Frodella, Borough Attorney, stated the settlement resolution, which was just adopted, was the result of a personnel matter which has been going on for years. Attorney Frodella stated he will provide a memo outlining the cannabis information for the governing body.
Administrator’s Report
Administrator McNeilly stated there is an MSA meeting on Thursday and the sale of gallonage to Byram Township is on the agenda for approval. The neighboring municipalities have submitted their resolutions approving the sale of 4,300 gallons to Byram Township.
CITIZENS TO BE HEARD
Mayor Zdichocki opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Nancy Hoyt, 33 Lawrence Avenue, asked if the Borough is still in the co-op for electric generation. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough is in the co-op until January 1st. An auction will take place in September. If the bid is good, the contract will continue seamlessly in January. If the bid is not favorable, there may be a lapse until March 1st.
Mayor Zdichocki stated there is a gentleman going door to door in the Borough selling third party electric generation. Mayor Zdichocki checked his credentials because he stated he was from JCP&L and he is not. He is attempting to sell his service to switch residents from their current service.
Seeing no one further from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Wronko, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk