MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
December 12, 2017
7:00 P.M.
Click Here To View/Print PDF Version of Minutes
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 4, 2017 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 – absent
Councilman Romano – present
Councilwoman Zdichocki – present
Mayor Maio – present
Mayor Maio stated Councilman Depew is absent due to a medical issue. Mayor Maio asked the Governing Body if there were any objections to accepting Councilman Depew’s medical absence. The Governing Body unanimously accepted the medical excuse for Councilman Depew.
DISCUSSIONS
Mayor Maio stated Ray Sarinelli, Borough Auditor, and Jason Laliker, Borough Tax Assessor, are here this evening to provide the Governing Body with their end of year reports.
Ray Sarinelli, Borough Auditor – Mr. Sarinelli stated we started this process two years ago to get an idea of where the budget may be and the year-end close out. The 2017 budget was put together craftily, meaning the appropriate amounts of fund balance and revenue were used. There was an increase to the amount of revenue by $120,000 but the payoff of debt service and funding of capital was increased. The one time increase in fund balance sort of balances out with what was done on the expense side. Should the fund balance go back down, which is likely, then you would fully fund or you would not at such a high level fully fund capital or debt service. You have that option. Mr. Sarinelli stated he does not have a lot of precautions. There is nothing that he sees at this point in the budget that is dangerous. The CFO has not contacted him with any concerns. The Federal Reserve Interest Rate is being watched right now. Mr. Sarinelli stated he spoke with Administrator McNeilly several months ago regarding long term bonding and whether or not it would be a good time to obtain a lower rate on the $2.2-$2.3 debt that the Borough has in order to capture the best long term rate for 10-15 years. The cost to issue the debt would range between $30,000-$70,000. The Borough is judicious about capital and careful about what is spent. The Borough is always under 10 years with the rolling bond anticipation note with the knowledge that the debt could always be paid off in 7-8 years. As well as the economy is doing, the long term interest rates have not changed significantly in the past year and a half. Bond rates are still very favorable from a historical standpoint. The long term rate would probably be under three percent.
Mr. Sarinelli stated Administrator McNeilly likes to have the capital plan in place prior to the adoption of the budget. This allows lead time for the various projects for 2018. This would take a lot of moving parts to get the capital plan in place, to adopt it and have the bond sale early on. Mayor Maio asked Mr. Sarinelli if he could schedule a meeting with the Finance Committee to discuss the long term bond. As for capital, the Borough has the potential for the highest capital in years, depending on the outcome of the discussions. There is the possibility for the purchase of a fire truck in excess of $500,000, a truck for DPW $75,000, fire equipment and we have not yet heard from the Ambulance Squad regarding an ambulance. The discussion on long term capital is critical and also the possibility of using the sale of assets money for outright purchase may be necessary. Mr. Sarinelli stated he is in favor of using those funds for a one time purchase. Mr. Sarinelli is not in favor of using the sale of assets money to lower the tax rate. Mayor Maio stated a fire truck should last 30 years and the dump truck would last at least 15 years. Mr. Sarinelli stated there seems to be stronger evidence that the interest rates will increase. Mr. Sarinelli stated he would be happy to meet with the Finance Committee. Mayor Maio asked Administrator McNeilly to coordinate the scheduling of the meeting. After some discussion the meeting date was selected for Friday, December 22nd, at 10:00AM. Administrator McNeilly will send out an email. Mayor Maio thanked Mr. Sarinelli for attending tonight’s meeting and Mr. Sarinelli thanked the Governing Body and left the meeting. Ms. Horak, Borough Clerk, stated Borough Hall will be closed for the holiday on December 22nd. Mayor Maio stated the Finance Committee can still meet with Mr. Sarinelli on the 22nd. Administrator McNeilly stated in his opinion the Finance Committee should not meet without having the Borough Staff available as well. Administrator McNeilly stated he will contact Mr. Sarinelli to check availability for December 21st at 10:00AM.
Jason Laliker, Borough Tax Assessor – Jason Laliker, Tax Assessor, stated the Borough is in a very good place right now with regard to tax assessment and has been very stable for the past few years. Between 2017 and 2018 the ratable base is not going up much. We would like to see this number increase. Everything else remains relatively the same such as the average residential home value and commercial value. The ratio last year was 92.17% and this year the ratio is 93.50%. This is very stable and a great spot to be. The 93.50% gives a cushion for appeals. The assessments are relative to market, which makes sense to the homeowners. There were just under 100 sales this year, with approximately half of them being usable sales. This is a fair number when you consider estate sales, family transfers and similar situations. The percentage last year for short sales and foreclosures was 22%. This year the percentage has decreased to approximately 16%. Councilwoman Kuncken asked how this compares to other communities. Mr. Laliker stated overall most of the percentages have decreased. There are some other towns he is familiar with, such as Hamburg and Montague, where there are still many foreclosures and sheriffs sales. There have been some higher sale prices for properties sold in Stanhope this year in the $300,000 – $400,000 range. The added assessments for last year have remained relatively the same. Mr. Laliker stated this is the area he would like to see increase. Mayor Maio asked how long the Borough waits before adding an assessment if a resident obtains a permit and begins construction but then work stops before the project is complete. Mr. Laliker stated he can pick up the assessment when the project is substantially completed for its intended use. Mayor Maio stated potentially if the project is not completed this could go on forever. Mr. Laliker confirmed this but stated at the end of the year he can do a follow up to see how far along the project is. Administrator McNeilly stated the new Mitchel Humphrey software in the Construction Department provides much better information when the permits are closed out and real time reports are provided. Mr. Laliker confirmed this and stated every week there are permits on his desk for review. The added assessment schedule is from October to October. Mr. Laliker stated he is seeing more assessable improvements but they are for smaller items such as air conditioning and siding. The Borough had five appeals this year. There was one reduction based on an issue with the land they had. The other four were affirmed. This resulted in minimal losses. Mr. Laliker stated it is difficult to anticipate what type of appeals will be received but he is of the opinion next year will be similar to this past year. Overall the Borough is in good condition and there are no neighborhoods of concern. The coefficient of deviation was 8.63% which is the study of uniformity in the assessments. For small towns any percentage under 12% is great. Mayor Maio stated she is hopeful that the commercial business will increase. Mr. Laliker stated there is stability and slow growth beginning. The interest rates have helped. Administrator McNeilly stated there may be some potential commercial growth in the near future. Discussion took place regarding a few properties which are currently under construction. Mayor Maio thanked Mr. Laliker for attending this evening’s meeting.
CITIZENS TO BE HEARD
Mayor Maio opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Maio closed this public portion of the meeting.
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Maio read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
November 28, 2017 Business Meeting & Closed Session
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and carried by voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilwoman Thistleton, seconded by Councilwoman Zdichocki and unanimously carried by voice vote, the list of correspondence was accepted and ordered placed on file.
Tree Lighting Thank You – Mayor Maio stated she would like to thank the Recreation Commission for a really fine job at the annual tree lighting. Mayor Maio also extended a special thank you to Peterson Tree Service for placing the lights on the tree for the past several years. This year there were problems with the lights and they had to be replaced. Peterson’s Tree Service provides the labor and the Borough is very thankful. Councilwoman Kuncken stated the DPW has also done a beautiful job decorating the Borough. Mayor Maio stated the Sparta Road sample light post was a nice addition and a conversation piece. Administrator McNeilly stated the lights provided by the Fire Department worked well and run on a battery pack and last 3-4 hours.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
Public Safety – Councilwomen Kuncken/Thistleton
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Department report for the month of November states 9 calls were answered, 33 man hours, 1 mutual aid call, 5 drills and 5 training sessions for a total of 156 man hours.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Police Department reported 278 calls for the month.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Ambulance Squad report for the month of October states there were 61 calls answered; 26 in Stanhope, 31 in Netcong; 4 stand-bys, 2 out of town calls; 2 to Byram, 3 to Hopatcong for a total of 5. They treated 51 patients and made 36 trips to the hospital and travelled 1,067 miles for a total of 375 hours and 18 minutes. There were no assists from the Police Department or Fire Department in October. September’s report states there were 58 calls; 19 in Stanhope and 34 in Netcong; 5 stand-bys, and 3 out of town calls to Hopatcong. They treated 38 patients, made 30 trips to the hospital and travelled 719 miles for a total of 453 hours and 9 minutes.
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilwoman Kuncken
Councilman Romano stated the year to date tax collections are $11,932,585.52 vs. $11,863,476.84. The delinquencies have decreased which is nice. The delinquencies are $221,601.43 as opposed to $236,410.30. The overall collections are at 97.072% which is good.
Councilman Romano stated the year to date collections for the water utility is $527,078.84. The year to date collections for the sewer utility is $752,652.28. The Borough is solvent.
Community Development – Councilwoman Zdichocki/Councilman Thornton
(Zoning, Construction, Code Enforcement, Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Revitalization)
No Report
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilwoman Zdichocki
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
No Report
Information Technology – Councilmen Depew/Romano
No Report
Boards/Commissions – Councilwoman Thistleton/Councilman Depew
Councilwoman Thistleton thanked the Recreation Commission for the fantastic job they did this year for the Tree Lighting and the reception held at the Presbyterian Church afterwards. The Tree Lighting was a success and was attended by more people this year than last year. Next year for pictures with Santa and the Elf the Recreation Commission would like to have a backdrop. Next year the event will be held on Saturday, instead of Sunday, to avoid a conflict with the Netcong Parade. The Valley Road students and Miss Stanhope attended this year’s event and sang.
Councilwoman Thistleton stated the Recreation Commission will be travelling around the Borough this week to determine the winners of the Holiday House/Condo Decorating Contest. The winners should be announced on the 14th or 15th.
Councilwoman Thistleton stated there were no issues with regard to the Board of Health.
Mayor Maio asked Administrator McNeilly if the Environmental Commission has prepared the list of plants as discussed during their prior presentation. Administrator McNeilly stated he has not received any information to date.
ENGINEER’S REPORT
Sparta Road – Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, stated at the meeting on November 28th, the Governing Body requested a sign redesign in order to reduce the cost. The consensus was for a natural granite backdrop and to simplify the sign. Mr. Keller presented two options. The first is a 13 ½ foot wide granite panel on a pedestal. The pedestal would be finished with a natural stone veneer. Option two is for a granite slab a little over 18 feet. More detailed pricing has been obtained from the supplier for the granite slab, which comes in three pieces, and the stone base. We have removed the lighting. If lighting is requested, it will be done with up lighting from the ground or mounted on the pedestal. Mr. Keller stated it is difficult to know how a contractor will bid a sign such as this but looking at materials, time for installation and the lettering, the small sign estimate is $35,000 and the larger sign estimate is $45,000. Lighting would cost approximately $5,000-$7,000 depending on the type of control mechanism. Mr. Keller recommended both signs be included as we move into the design phase. The sign designs are the same except for the size. The bid can include both options and the choice can be made based on the funds available. The pillar on the other side has been dropped and we are only focused on the sign for the southbound side. Mayor Maio stated she was expecting the sign to say Welcome to Stanhope. Mr. Keller stated the sign can be modified. Mayor Maio asked if having the letters pinned to the pedestal is secure enough to keep the letters from being removed. Mr. Keller stated it would take a fair amount of work to remove the letters. Councilwoman Zdichocki asked what the cost would be to have Welcome to Stanhope carved into the granite. Mr. Keller stated he does not have a price for that option. Much discussion took place regarding the sign options. Another option which was suggested is to have black letters for more contrast and to have the letters attached directly to the granite instead of pinned into the base.
Mr. Keller stated the locations for the planting of the trees still needs to be determined. Small trees will be used for areas under power lines and in confined spaces. Large trees such as; thorn less honey locust, which is a more open tree; willow oaks; red oaks; ginkgo; zelcovas; and a fruitless sweetgum are options to choose from. It was suggested to have two species used. Mayor Maio stated she would like to show the list to the Shade Tree Commission, not to have them select the trees, but to see if there are any objections to a specific species. Mr. Keller stated the trees should be in the 3 – 3 ½ inch caliper, which depending on the exact species, would be a tree in the 20 foot range. Much discussion took place regarding the various trees and sizes. The smaller trees would be used along the high school parking lot where the power lines are located. The smaller trees are determined by their height not by caliper. Choices would be Japanese tree lilac; purple leaf plum; eastern redbud in tree form; thorn less hawthorn; and fruitless crab apple.
Mr. Keller stated the surveys for Sparta Road and the Valley Road Trail have been completed. The Lenape High School Trail will be completed by the end of the week. The base mapping is scheduled to be completed by Christmas.
Mayor Maio asked Mr. Keller if there are federal requirements with regard to lane width. Mr. Keller stated there are requirements for highways. This project is providing a shoulder but in the form of a bike lane. The Borough may have to ask for a design exception for this project. The reason would be to provide traffic calming. The speed limit in Hopatcong is 50mph and as you enter Stanhope the speed limit decreases to 35mph. We may need to ask the Chief of Police to provide details regarding the number of speeding tickets which have been issued over the past three years. Administrator McNeilly asked Mr. Keller to provide him with the detailed information for the request and he will contact the Chief of Police. Administrator McNeilly stated the lane width at the gas station is 12’3” and 10’9” at the corner of Maple Terrace and Brooklyn Road. The width of Sparta Road at the gas station is 13’3”.
Administrator McNeilly stated the Infrastructure Committee will meet on 21st. All of this information has to start coming together as the capital budget items are discussed. Mayor Maio asked, in terms of Sparta Road, is the bike lane and width of the road part of the separate grant for the milling and paving or is it part of the TAP Grant. Mr. Keller stated the bike lanes and other calming aspects are part of the TAP Grant. The traditional local aid grant is for milling and paving. The center line striping will be done under the local aid grant which can be done through the co-op. Administrator McNeilly stated Mr. Keller is designing the TAP Grant project and then he has to step away. The TAP Grant will be on a timeline and as that grant is awarded, all the work required such as the installation of the light poles, the crosswalks, the addition of the hydrant and the curbing all need to completed first. Then Mr. Keller will come back to supervise the milling and paving. During that time the TAP Grant work for the lighting on the trail can be worked on. Mr. Keller stated police officers will be required for four days during the milling and paving process. Administrator McNeilly stated from a safety standpoint he cannot stress the importance of having the striping done as soon as possible. This is a major thoroughfare. There was a head on collision on Route 565 in the County due to the fact the striping was not done in a timely manner. Mr. Keller stated the road will have to be stickered. The problem with the co-op is that the milling and resurfacing is done by one company and then Denville Line Painting has to come in to do the striping. Administrator McNeilly stated when the center line is painted it will not be in the center of the road due to the bike lane. Where the line needs to be painted will have to be specifically marked out.
Mayor Maio thanked Mr. Keller for attending tonight’s meeting.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Construction Department – Administrator McNeilly stated the Construction Official has submitted a request for additional hours for the Construction Secretary to take effect January 1st. The hours would be overtime due to the fact the secretary will work these hours in addition to the regularly scheduled 35 hours per week. Two additional hours have been requested at a cost of $51.00 and this arrangement would be reviewed in six months. The employee will be made aware that if the hours are no longer needed the additional wages do not become part of the employee’s salary. Mayor Maio asked if there were any objections. The Governing Body had no objections. Administrator McNeilly stated the additional hours will be included in the salary ordinance for 2018.
Recycling Tonnage Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated the Recycling Tonnage Grant has been received. Like many programs through the State, this one is running behind. The report is for 2015. The numbers had been decreasing and the Borough worked closely with Renee Casapulla from SCMUA and the number has increased. The Borough is going to continue to try and improve the tonnage figures. The Recycling Co-coordinator position will be part of the DPW Supervisor’s position and training will be provided.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
2018 Reorganization Meeting – Mayor Maio stated the Clerk has provided the Governing Body with a packet of information regarding the annual reorganization meeting. Mayor Maio asked if there are any questions. Ms. Horak, Borough Clerk, stated January 1, 2019 falls on a Tuesday. The reorganization meeting must be held within 7 days of the new year. Administrator McNeilly stated the American Legion hosts a New Year’s Eve Party and the hall would not be available on January 1st. The Governing Body agreed to schedule the 2019 reorganization meeting for Wednesday, January 2nd. Ms. Horak stated the Chief of Police has informed her that he will not be presenting any awards this year. The Fire Department and the Ambulance Squad have not replied to date.
TAP Grant (Sparta Road) – Mayor Maio stated the TAP Grant was discussed earlier in the meeting and no additional discussion is needed at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 182-17 RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH PRELIMINARY COSTS FOR PEDESTRIAN LOOP PHASE II
WHEREAS, The Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope hereby acknowledge the requirement of preliminary costs to determine the scope and cost of the Pedestrian Loop Phase II project. The purpose of these preliminary costs are for the engineering and related studies to analyze and present possible options for the completion of this project, and that the amount to be charged is for the purpose for which bonds may be issued under Chapter 2 of Title 40A.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the amount appropriated for preliminary costs shall not exceed $10,000.00 and the Chief Financial Officer is authorized to set up a “Reserve for Preliminary Expenses” out of the Capital Improvement Fund of the General Capital Fund.
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 – absent
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes
Resolution 183-17 RESOLUTION APPROVING CHANGE ORDER FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RELATING TO ENGINEERING WORK FOR THE DESIGN OF SIDEWALK ON ROUTE 183 AND ROUTE 206
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope adopted Resolution 119-14, awarding the contract for the Design of Sidewalk on Route 183 and Route 206 to Omland Engineering, now known as Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.; and
WHEREAS, the work on the design of the sidewalk has incurred additional unanticipated costs associated with the following;
$ 5,000.00 – Allowance for retaining wall structure
$ 950.00 – Sidewalk Easements
$16,038.75 – Unforeseen charges due to contractor’s rate of progress and performance through November 30, 2017;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope accepts the Change Order submitted by Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd. and hereby authorizes the increase in contract price for the retaining wall structure, sidewalk easements and unforeseen charges by $21,988.75 for a total price of $77,363.75.
On motion by Councilwoman Zdichocki, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Mayor Maio asked Mr. Keller, Borough Engineer, for an explanation regarding this resolution. Mr. Keller stated budgeting for construction observation is based on the duration of the contract, which was 60 days. We do not anticipate that they will work for 60 days or that we are required to be present all day, every day that they work. The Borough gave an extra 11 days during the contract and the contractor went over by 10 or 12 days. The contractor took approximately 90 days to complete this contract. Mr. Keller stated it was also anticipated that everything would be working at the same time. The retaining wall design was supposed to be completed and approved prior to the work beginning. It took six weeks and two different design engineers to design the retaining wall, which was the responsibility of the contractor under the contract. The retaining wall design was not approved until early October. Almost everything else was done by then except the wall and the sidewalk in front of it. Mr. Keller stated this added days to the project and required his inspector to be onsite more days and more hours. Mr. Keller stated the bills list will contain the contractor’s third pay requisition plus retainage. The Borough will not pay more than what the contract was, less this amount, plus the cost the Borough paid to remove two trees. Mr. Keller complimented Peterson’s Tree Service for the speed in which they were able to remove the two trees and at a cost 20% less than what Your Way was going to charge the Borough. Mr. Keller stated the payment amount of the contract is not going to be exceeded. Administrator McNeilly stated Your Way has removed all the debris and equipment. The area behind Gyro Bob’s has been completely cleared. Mr. Keller stated he has sent an email to Bill Hayden asking if the DOT is satisfied with the job. Mr. Keller stated he will check to see if the shut off has been repaired on the one property.
Roll Call:
Councilman Depew – absent
Councilwoman Thistleton – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – absent
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 184-17 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. 2017-024, representing 2016 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11605, Lot 9, known as 17 Maryann Terrace, assessed to Christiana TST Wilmington Sav Fund, 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 16th Street, Suite 2050
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2017-024 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 933.08
Premium Paid by Lienholder 1,100.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 933.08
Total From Tax Premium Account 1,100.00
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 185-17 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. 2017-007, representing 2016 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11103, Lot 24.01, known as 12 Hill Road, assessed to Douglas O & Sylvia S Hunts, 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 PC7 Firstrust Bank
Tax Lien Services Group
50 South 16th St, Suite 2050
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2017-007 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,792.70
Premium Paid by Lienholder 0.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,792.70
Total From Tax Premium Account 0.00
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 186-17 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. 2017-013, representing property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11501, Lot 2, C0092, known as 692 Audubon Ct, assessed to Lisa Didomenico, 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 #2017-013 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 5,268.01
Premium Paid by Lienholder 5,900.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 5,268.01
Total From Tax Premium Account 5,900.00
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.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano 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 – absent
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 187-17 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 December 12, 2017 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 – absent
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Zdichocki – yes
ATTORNEY’S REPORT
No attorneys report.
CITIZENS 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.
Don Drake, Stanhope SWAC Representative, stated the percentages should not be looked at for the 2015 Recycling Grant which is based on total tons in the landfill. Mr. Drake stated 2015 was a low year and the percentages have increased. These percentages will not be the same in the future. The recycling tonnage has increased every year and we are doing very well. Mayor Maio asked what area is causing the increase. Administrator McNeilly stated the highest dollar per ton is for electronics recycling. The years being discussed are the ones when electronics collection began. Mayor Maio asked if the Borough gets credit when we bring in a vendor to collect the electronics. Administrator McNeilly confirmed the Borough does receive credit. The Borough also receives credit for the businesses within the Borough who recycle. Mr. Drake stated the State has approved the next phase of the landfill’s vertical expansion and it started being utilized at the first of the month. The fiscal year for SCMUA is December 1st. Last year’s average tonnage revenue on everything is above what it was ($110.40). The rates will be stabilized for several years. Hopefully recycling will continue to increase. The life of the landfill should last until approximately 2050. Wood is also being recycled now which is beneficial for the landfill. Originally the landfill was slated to close in 2016. SCMUA generates its own power from the methane. Mayor Maio thanked Mr. Drake for providing this report.
Anthony Riccardi, 4 Lawrence Avenue, stated there is correspondence and resolutions which were not discussed. Mayor Maio stated the items on the correspondence list are not discussed unless there is a point of interest that someone has. The correspondence list just notes that the Borough has received those items.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Maio closed the public portion of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Thistleton, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk