MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
December 15, 2020
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 8, 2020 and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building.

Furthermore, notice of the change in the meeting location was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on July 22, 2020 and was placed on the official website of the Borough of Stanhope.

Furthermore, notice of the change in meeting time was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on November 2, 2020 and was placed on the official website of the Borough of Stanhope.

In the event the Mayor and Council have not addressed all items on this Agenda by 10:00 PM and they are of the opinion that they cannot complete the Agenda in a reasonable time period, the Mayor and Council may exercise their option to continue this meeting at an agreed to date, time and place. Please turn off all cell phones for the duration of this meeting.

ROLL CALL
Council Members:
Councilman Cipollini – present Councilman Romano – present via cell phone Councilwoman Kuncken – present Councilman Thornton – present Councilman Riccardi – 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.

PRESENTATIONS
Ray Sarinelli, Borough Auditor, stated he has spoken with the Administrator and the CFO to go over the projections and the 2021 budget. Mr. Sarinelli stated there has been a great deal of good planning. Tax collection is down slightly but still good. Some of the revenues have not done as expected such as with the municipal court. The 2021 budget should proceed in the normal budget process. The projected fund balance from 2020 will be utilized in 2021. The 2021 budget is a pretty status quo budget. Based on what has been put together so far, and what the projection is for the year closeout, this is a good budget. There is a small decrease in expenditures and we will see how that relates to the tax increase. Mayor Zdichocki asked what the percentage of decrease was for the tax collection rate. Mr. Sarinelli replied the percentage was less than a quarter of a percent. Hopefully by the end of the year the rate will be close to the same. This is not an issue of concern. Councilman Thornton asked Mr. Sarinelli if the individual homeowners will have difficulty paying their taxes due to the current situation where many have lost their jobs. Mr. Sarinelli replied to date that has not been an issue. With the vaccine in sight and word that the pandemic is coming to an end along with the fact that people have been able to make their payments so far, he does not see the tax collection rate as a concern. Mr. Sarinelli stated the Borough made a big step last year to pay down the debt and this year less of a step is being made. Mayor Zdichocki stated so far the Borough has been very lucky. Other towns have not been as fortunate. Mr. Sarinelli replied the Borough is lucky and prepared. Councilwoman Kuncken stated this is a negotiation year with the PBA, the DPW and the Chief. The governing body does not know at this time what that expense is going to be. Mr. Sarinelli stated those are normal occurrences for a budget cycle. Councilman Thornton asked Mr. Sarinelli if, in his opinion, the Borough will be able to keep the increase below the two percent. Mr. Sarinelli stated the expenditure side at this time is less than two percent. The tax levy cannot be determined until the year is closed out. We will have to wait and see how this works out as the rest of the budget is determined. Councilman Riccardi stated he likes Mr. Sarinelli’s optimism for 2021 and asked Mr. Sarinelli for his suggestion on the plan to follow if 2021 follows the same as 2020. Mr. Sarinelli stated he would not suggest that the Borough deviate from what has been being done. Balance spending and keep in mind tax payer dollars. Stanhope has a good fund balance and good reserves. Many towns have not done as well during these uncertain times. Mr. Sarinelli suggests staying on the current plan. Mayor Zdichocki thanked Mr. Sarinelli for attending this evenings meeting.

Jason Laliker, Borough Tax Assessor, stated the residential real estate market is doing very well right now even during this pandemic. A comparison of where we stand looking to 2021 compared to 2020 is at status quo. There were only four tax appeals this past year. There were only a few added assessments. There were no real losses to the base with regard to construction demolitions or exempt veterans. In terms of sales, they were strong. There were 62 sales. The ratio of assessed value to market value is starting to drop. As the market gets stronger the ratio drops. The Borough is still in a good position. For 2020 the percentage was at 88.49 and for 2021 the percentage is at 89.19. The expectation is this will level off as COVID ends but the ratio is secure. Mr. Laliker stated he does not anticipate receiving a lot of tax appeals and if that does occur, the Borough is in a position to defend them. Looking forward to next year with COVID, an area with issue may be the commercial properties. Across the board, throughout the state, the commercial retail area is going to be hit very hard. The Borough does not have a large ratable base of commercial properties so this will not be devastating but it is something to watch. Councilwoman Kuncken stated there will be two new commercial properties added. Mr. Laliker stated in the past, several residents have called and questioned the assessments but since the pandemic the calls have slowed down. Previously, veteran’s deductions and exemptions were granted based on serving during a certain time period. The state has removed those restrictions. More applications may start being submitted. All things considered, the Tax Assessor’s office has remained consistent over the past year. Of the 62 sales, only 8 of them were short sales. As of the end of November, there were 13 active listings and 16 under contract. Properties are not sitting on the market. They are moving and many times they are being sold for asking price. Mr. Laliker stated the market is the same in Morris, Sussex and Warren Counties. Mayor Zdichocki asked Mr. Laliker if he has any recommendations or suggestions. Mr. Laliker stated to keep things moving and watch the commercial properties and exemptions. Mayor Zdichocki thanked Mr. Laliker for attending this evenings meeting.

Environmental Commission, Owen Newson, Environmental Commission Secretary, and Mike Balogh, Chairman, came forward to make a presentation regarding four initiatives. Mr. Balogh stated the first is the Environmental Commission (EC) would like to install some trails at Furnace Pond located behind the Post Office. The second is to install native plants at Lakeside Park. The third is to install a trail behind the Lutheran church. The fourth is the Open Space Plan. A copy of the map depicting the trails was distributed to the Mayor and Council. Mayor Zdichocki stated the Environmental Commission has been asked to make this presentation due to the fact several of the governing body members are new and as such they were not present for the past discussions.

Furnace Pond Trail – Mr. Balogh stated the map shows trails located on property behind the fire house along the river and the tannery. The state was originally going to assist with the trails but has now backed out of the project. The Environmental Commission feels this trail would be beneficial to Stanhope and would provide trails in the center of town. Mr. Newson stated the State Park is interested in the initiative but for whatever reason they are not able to assist. A few years ago, the Superintendent from Lake Hopatcong toured the area and was very interested in the project. Mr. Newson stated he is of the opinion if the Borough takes some initiative to move forward the state would be interested in seeing it completed on their property. Mr. Balogh stated originally the state was going to apply for the permits for their property and the Borough was going to copy what the state did. The Environmental Commission would like to proceed with the project. Mr. Newson stated the benefits to the town are that Furnace Pond is located right off of Main Street and this would be a recreational trail which would bring people into the downtown area. Also, across the pond in Netcong, there will be a huge influx for residents in the new apartments which are being built. If Stanhope had an attractive trails system and a connecting bridge behind Compaq to connect Netcong to Lake Hopatcong’s property, it could bring more people to Stanhope. Netcong has built up their side and Stanhope is still fortunate to have green space located on our side and we should make the most of it. Councilwoman Kuncken stated due to the fact the state is not involved, the costs for the permits and the engineering would fall to the Borough. Mr. Balogh stated the EC has identified several grants which may be available to fund the shortfall for the project. The engineer’s estimate is $5,000. The EC has asked for $4,500 in their budget. Mr. Newson stated the EC could apply for the ANJEC grant in January. The Borough has a contract with a grant writer and the EC would like to work with them. Councilwoman Kuncken asked if the EC feels the permitting process would go smoothly. In the past, the ability to secure a permit was an issue. Mr. Balogh stated he is of the opinion the project meets the requirements in order to secure the permits. Mayor Zdichocki stated it appears that too much of this project is up in the air. The EC does not know that grants will be received to fund the project. Much discussion took place regarding the fact that more information is necessary. Mayor Zdichocki stated she appreciates the effort being put forth but she cautioned that if letters are being sent and other entities contacted, the governing body and the Administrator need to give approval first for letters to be sent or for anyone to be contacted. The EC cannot proceed on their own without approvals. All correspondence needs to be pre-approved. The EC represents the Borough and if things are being done without council approval and it gets back to the council, it does not look favorably if the council is unaware. Mr. Balogh stated the EC wants the council to be more involved. Mr. Balogh stated the EC invited the Mayor to their EC meeting and appreciated that she attended and all of this was discussed but he does not understand why they are hitting a brick wall now. There is always a wait and see attitude. Mr.Newson asked if there is a specific time when the EC did not follow the procedure. Mayor Zdichocki replied that is not what she is implying. She is just stating how things need to proceed. Councilwoman Kuncken stated the governing body needs more information in order to understand what needs to be done for the trail. Will the project involve plantings, and if so what kind. Will areas need to be cleared? The Borough has gotten into trouble in the past with the DEP regarding the clearing of the trail. This would help to make a decision moving forward. Councilman Wronko asked if there is a cost breakdown for the engineer’s $5,000 estimate. Administrator McNeilly stated this issue goes back many years and there is a great deal of frustration at this point. The State of New Jersey was going to take the lead on this and then their name would be taken off the permits and the Borough’s would be put on and the project would move forward. The council agreed at that point to proceed. The State came back and said this is a problem and they could not proceed. The Borough is now being asked to be the lead in order to move forward. The EC has a rough idea of the engineering costs. The Borough got hurt badly with six violations in the past for some very well intended work done in this area. This area of town has restrictions due to it being a historical area and it has a waterway on both sides which cannot be touched. It is very frustrating because you want to make it look great and publically accessible but because of decisions that were made forty years ago, the historic registry is a problem. The Borough Engineer is the only person that can advise as to what can and cannot be done in this area. If the project moves forward, there will also be field costs and inspection costs associated with the engineering costs. The financial restraints need to be determined first. Once that is determined, then other entities could be contacted if the project is viable. Councilman Cipollini asked if this would be a walking trail or if it would also be a biking trail. Mr. Balogh said this would mainly be a walking trail. The area is not very large. Councilman Cipollini stated in that case the number of grants would be limited. Mayor Zdichocki suggested perhaps the governing body should walk the area to get a better understanding. Councilman Romano stated the DEP would be involved in the project and the Borough does not know what they will require. The Borough Engineer needs to be involved first. Councilwoman Kuncken agreed and stated the costs would then have to be taken under consideration for the 2021 budget. Councilman Thornton stated when he first came onto the council, the engineer had been tasked with surveying the area in question. Councilman Thornton asked if the EC could use that survey to start the planning for the project. Administrator McNeilly stated the property owned by the Borough was surveyed six years ago but there are other properties involved. Councilman Thornton stated the area was staked out and he had walked that area with Councilwoman Kuncken and Administrator McNeilly. The plan could be laid out on that survey to provide a better understanding of the project. Administrator McNeilly stated the governing body could ask the engineer for a proposal based on that drawing and report back to the governing body. At that point a decision could be made whether or not to move forward. Councilman Wronko asked what it would cost for a proposal to be done by the engineer. Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, stated to look at the plan and to evaluate in the context of DEP rules, whether it is for the Borough property or the State Park, and provide guidance to the governing body would require no more than four hours at an estimated cost of $600. Mr. Keller stated he has walked the property in the past but it was some time ago. The proposal would outline what is and is not allowed, the permits required, a site review and a budget outline. Mr. Keller stated if there are wetlands in the area that will have an impact.

Mayor Zdichocki took a straw poll of the governing body to determine if the Borough Engineer should be tasked with providing a proposal for the trail project at Furnace Pond not to exceed $600. The results are as follows: Councilman Wronko – yes; Councilman Cipollini – yes: Councilman Thornton – yes; Councilman Riccardi – yes; Councilwoman Kuncken – yes; Councilman Romano – yes. The governing body approved the Borough Engineer to provide the proposal for the trail project.

Councilman Thornton stated the EC has $400 in their 2020 budget for professional services which should be encumbered to cover the $600 cost.

Mr. Keller asked to have the Environmental Commission’s current plan forwarded to him. Mr. Keller stated he will prepare the proposal prior to the Mayor and Council meeting in January.

Mr. Newson asked for the governing body to walk the area with the EC when the weather permits. Mayor Zdichocki replied she is willing to do so.

Lakeside Park Plantings – Mr. Balogh stated the EC would like to install plantings at Lakeside Park. The plan was presented several years ago as well. The revised list of plants was provided to the governing body. The plants are all native to the area. The type of plants will be based on availability. Councilwoman Kuncken stated in the past there were certain plants on the list that the council was not in favor of such as the blueberries. Mr. Balogh and Mr. Newson presented a slide show with the types of plants to be used. Once the plants are established they will not require much maintenance. Mr. Balogh stated the slides that indicate a plant could grow to 15 feet could only do so under ideal conditions for soil, sunlight etc. That would not be the case at the park. Spring would be the best time for planting. The plants would all be placed to the right of the parking area. The EC is willing to do the planting. Administrator McNeilly stated that would be acceptable. Mr. Newson stated they would like to do the planting in April in conjunction with the Spring Clean Communities Day weekend. The EC had the cost for the plants in their budget a few years ago. Administrator McNeilly stated the funds may have to be placed into the EC budget for 2021. Mayor Zdichocki asked to have a layout of the plantings provided to the governing body for approval. Mr. Balogh stated the estimate for the plants is approximately $350. Mayor Zdichocki asked the governing body to review the types of plants and voice any concerns prior to the purchasing of the plants. The EC will design the layout and meet with the governing body in February for final approval.

Proposed Trail behind Lutheran Church – Mr. Balogh stated the EC proposed a trail from Spring Street to the parking lot of the Lutheran Church. The governing body had approved the idea and then the Lutheran Church was contacted because the trail would lead to their parking lot. The Borough Engineer reviewed the area and determined there are wetlands in the area and constructing a trail would be difficult. Mr. Balogh asked if the Borough Engineer could walk the area with the EC to show them the areas of concern. Administrator McNeilly stated they met with the pastor, church elders and the president of the Lutheran Church and some members of the Environmental Commission when he and Mr. Keller walked the area. They walked from the house up the side of the hill and it was very wet. That entire area has running water. This is a tributary of the Musconetcong River. Mr. Keller stated he did not walk all the way to the church but he did walk from Spring Street until his boots were getting stuck. There are a lot of areas of concern. There is running water and there are riparian areas. Trails can exist in a riparian area but there are limitations on what can be done. It is challenging from a permit perspective and from a construction standpoint and there are maintenance issues. Administrator McNeilly stated it is unfortunate because this is the last area which would allow access around the far side of lake without having to walk in the road. Mr. Newson stated the members of the commission who had walked the area felt the water was runoff from Brooklyn Road. Administrator McNeilly stated Spring Street is named due to the springs in that area. Mr. Keller stated where the water is coming from does not matter the rules apply regardless. Mr. Newson asked if the Borough Engineer could walk the area with the EC and take another look. Mayor Zdichocki stated there is an issue of costs. Mr. Keller stated he would be willing to take some time out of his Saturday and walk the area. This will have to wait until spring.

Mr. Newson stated in his opinion Stanhope has the most beautiful Christmas tree and it would be worth travelling from another town just to see it. The Mayor and Council thanked Mr. Balogh and Mr. Newson for attending this evenings meeting.

MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Zdichocki read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
November 10, 2020 Work Session/Agenda Meeting
November 24, 2020 Business Meeting & Closed Session

On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved. Councilman Cipollini abstained from the minutes of November 10, 2020 and Councilman Romano abstained from the Closed Session minutes of November 24, 2020.

CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by voice vote, the list of correspondence was accepted and ordered placed on file.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Council Committee Reports were waived.

Public Safety – Councilwoman Kuncken/CouncilmanThornton
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)

Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilwoman Kuncken

Community Development – Councilman Wronko/Councilman Riccardi
(Zoning, Construction, Code Enforcement, Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Revitalization)

Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Wronko
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)

Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Cipollini

Boards/Commissions – Councilman Cipollini/Councilman Romano

COVID Update – Mayor Zdichocki stated the COVID report received today states there are 24 active cases and 3 cases pending. Active cases are changed to non-active after 15 days. Currently no one is hospitalized. There are 19 homes with active cases.

ENGINEER’S REPORT
Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, stated the governing body must obtain educational credits annually for stormwater training under the requirements of the Tier A Stormwater Permit. In the past, the training has been provided by the Musconetcong Watershed Association (MWA). However, due to COVID, Mr. Keller will be providing the required training as the MWA is unable to do so. Mr. Keller stated the Borough is responsible for the stormwater issues on both the design and maintenance sides to protect the waterways within the community. This includes Lake Musconetcong and the Musconetcong River. The waterways are a source of attraction for the community and the residents and it is in our best interest to preserve and maintain the waterways as best we can. Unfortunately, the State does not provide funding for this purpose. During a planning board hearing the quantity and quality of the water is taken into consideration along with ground water recharge. The Tier A permit is more concerned with quality and maintaining the retention basins. Mr. Keller’s presentation included a video which outlined the rules and regulations with regard to stormwater management. At the conclusion of the video, Mr. Keller stated the stormwater prevention plan for the Borough has been updated. The outflow map meets the DEP requirements. The DEP ensures the municipalities are doing their part to maintain water quality. The Borough was due this year to have an audit conducted by the DEP. The pandemic has caused the audit to be postponed at this time. The inspections which are done by the Borough Engineer on a quarterly basis and after every major storm event for the Borough, as of today, all of the stormwater management facilities in the Borough are municipally owned until Mr. Singh completes the new gas station. Mr. Singh, the owner of the new gas station, is obligated, just as the Borough is, to do quarterly inspections and to inspect after every major storm event and to provide that documentation to Mr. Keller, as the Borough’s Stormwater Coordinator. The DEP has a website NJStormwater.org which provides a series of training videos. It is required that every Land Use Board member and Governing Body member view the video Stormwater Management Design Review Course. Mr. Keller asked the Governing Body members who have not watched the video as yet to do so and to inform the Administrator when they have completed the task. The video provides an overview of the things which are necessary and why certain things are done to maintain water quality. Mr. Keller stated if anyone has any questions, they can contact him. The Municipal Excess Liability JIF also has a series of video training available. The Borough adopted the stormwater control ordinance in 2005-2006, which came about due to the last major re-adoption of the state’s stormwater rules. The state has redone the rules again and the new stormwater rules were adopted in March of 2020 and will take effect on March 2, 2021. Mr. Keller provided the Clerk with a model ordinance which was forwarded to the governing body. The Borough will have to update and adopt the stormwater control ordinance in order to implement the new rules. This will need to be done early in the new year. The new regulations will affect Land Use Board applications. Mr. Keller stated the new gas station, which is a small development, may not have been designed much differently based on the new regulations. However, if the property on Sparta Road were to be developed, and because it would be a much larger development, there would be several smaller retention basins located throughout the area instead of one single detention basin. There are several criteria which would need to be taken into consideration to determine the design. Mr. Keller confirmed the existing retention basins will be grandfathered. If the Borough is not able to comply with a rule, a mitigation plan can be submitted. At this time the Borough does not have a mitigation plan and as such the regulations must be followed one hundred percent. Mayor Zdichocki thanked Mr. Keller for attending this evenings meeting.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Administrator McNeilly stated he had no report.

Upcoming Storm – Councilman Riccardi asked Administrator McNeilly for a report on plans to handle the upcoming storm. Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW is prepared to be on duty for twenty four plus hours and the trucks are loaded. The DPW will be out at 7am tomorrow morning putting down brine. The department is short one employee but they will be able to get through the storm. The equipment is in good shape and the Borough has enough materials. The sidewalks and hydrants will be cleared. The roads will not be a black surface. Trenton typically will not take any action unless the storm is on their doorstep. This storm is coming right through there. Councilman Thornton asked if the business located across the street from Borough Hall will be restricted from parking on the street. Administrator McNeilly stated the parking restriction does not apply to the downtown business district. This includes the area from Church Street down Main Street South.

Court Case Update – The Zoning Officer has been in contact with the property owner for the business located across from Borough Hall and at the court hearing the attorney for the property owner has indicated there is a conflict with the judge and the case will now be heard in Sparta Township. The business owner is scheduled to be in court on Monday.

COUNCIL DISCUSSION
2021 Reorganization Meeting – Mayor Zdichocki stated the 2021 Reorganization Meeting is scheduled for January 12^th and it will take place along with the regularly scheduled meeting. Ellen Horak, Borough Clerk, stated the reorganization packets were sent to the governing body for review or comments. The only change will be the meetings for 2021 will be advertised with the location being the Stanhope School.

Staff Holiday Luncheon (December 18^th) – Mayor Zdichocki stated traditionally Borough Hall would close early at 2:00pm for the staff holiday lunch. This year the luncheon will be held on December 18^th and the staff will have lunch at Borough Hall. The Department of Public Works will have their luncheon separately at the DPW building. Due to COVID restrictions the luncheon cannot take place off site this year. Mayor Zdichocki asked the governing body if there were any objections to closing at 2:00pm. There were no objections.

NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following resolutions which were read by title.

Resolution 169-20 RESOLUTION TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX FOR COUNTYWIDE MUTUAL AID AND ASSISTANCE BETWEEN PARTICIPATING UNITS

WHEREAS, the New Jersey Fire Service Resource Emergency Deployment Act, N.J.S.A. 52:14E-11, et seq. and Fire Service Resource Emergency Deployment Regulations, N.J.A.C. 5:75A-2.2, require municipalities to adopt local fire mutual aid plans; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope desires to enter into a Countywide Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement (“Agreement”) with Sussex County and other participating Sussex County municipalities to provide coordination of mutual aid and fire assistance; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope desires to enter into this Agreement, effective January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2023, regarding mutual aid and fire assistance.

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

The Mayor is hereby authorized to execute this Agreement between the County of Sussex and all Participating Units.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution shall be forwarded to Sussex County.

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

Roll Call:
Councilman Cipollini – yes Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes Councilman Wronko – yes

Resolution 170-20 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TRANSFER OF 2020 APPROPRIATIONS

WHEREAS, the Finance Officer certifies that there appear to be insufficient funds in the budgetary accounts listed below to meet the demands thereon for the balance of the year; and

WHEREAS, the Finance Officer certifies that there appears to be a surplus in the budgetary accounts listed below, over and above the demand deemed necessary for the balance of the year; and

WHEREAS, N.J.S. 40A:4-58 provides that transfers of funds may be made during the last two months of the budget year;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Borough Finance Officer is authorized to make a transfer in 2020 budget appropriations in the amount of $3,750.00 within the Current Fund, as follows:

CURRENT FUND		From:	To:
Fire Dept – O/E		$ 3,000.00
Solid Waste – O/E		$ 750.00

	Solid Waste – S & W		$ 750.00
	Vehicle Maint – Fire		$ 3,000.00
		$ 3,750.00	$ 3,750.00

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

Roll Call:
Councilman Cipollini – yes Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – 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 171-20 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING STANHOPE BOROUGH TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, IN THE MOUNT OF $16,200 UNDER THE 2021 SAFE AND SECURE COMMUNITIES PROGRAM, SUBAWARD GRANT NUMBER 21-1919

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

1. The Borough of Stanhope is authorized to accept a subaward grant from the State of New Jersey, Department of Law and Safety, Office of the Attorney General, in the amount of $16,200.00, under the Safe and Secure Communities Program, Grant No. 21-1919, with a Match-Fringe Benefits, for a total project cost of $16,200.00.

2. Mayor Patricia Zdichocki and Chief Steve Pittigher are authorized to execute and the Borough Clerk to attest to a Subgrant Award in connection with this grant, and any and all documents in connection with this grant.

3. The Borough of Stanhope is accepting this grant of funds for the purpose described in the application.

4. Subaward Period: January 16, 2021 to January 15, 2022.

5. A certified copy of this resolution shall be provided by the Office of the Borough Clerk to each of the following:

a) Mayor Patricia Zdichocki
b) Borough Council
c) Brian McNeilly, Borough Administrator
d) Ursula H. Leo, Esq., Borough Attorney
e) Dana Mooney, CFO
f) Police Department: Chief Steve Pittigher
g) State of New Jersey, Office of Attorney General

Resolution 172-20 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A TAXICAB LICENSE TO STAR LIMO SERVICE LLC

WHEREAS, Chapter 126 of the Stanhope Code of Ordinances requires that anyone operating a taxicab service within the Borough must obtain a license for same; and

WHEREAS, Star Limo Service LLC, operating at 122 Route 183, Stanhope have applied to the Borough Clerk for a taxicab license and have complied with all the provisions of Chapter 126; and

WHEREAS, the following vehicle is to be operated by Nelson Zuniga and Jossel Zuniga Carcamo within the Borough of Stanhope:

Vehicle #1 – 2008 Honda Odyssey Wagon, VIN # 5FNRL38608B029682; and

WHEREAS, the Municipal Clerk and the Zoning Officer have reviewed said application and recommend approval; and

WHEREAS, said approval is contingent upon receipt by the Borough Clerk of proof of required insurance and payment of all fees;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Borough Clerk is hereby authorized to issue, for the year 2021, said taxicab license to operate expiring at midnight December 31, 2021.

Resolution 173-20 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. 2020-002, representing 2019 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 10704, Lot 1.11, known as 8 Crestview Dr, assessed to Maignan, Gina & Marie, 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: Pro Cap 8, LLC.
US Bank Cust for Pro Cap 8
2500 McClellan Ave, Suite 200
Pennsauken, NJ 08109

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2020-002 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,711.49
Premium Paid by Lienholder 200.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,711.49
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 174-20 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. 2020-007, representing 2019 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11102, Lot 13, known as 33 Linden Ave, assessed to Kumetz, Jonathan & Zotynia, Allison, 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: Pro Cap 8, LLC.
US Bank Cust for Pro Cap 8
2500 McClellan Ave, Suite 200
Pennsauken, NJ 08109

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2020-007 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,604.03
Premium Paid by Lienholder 200.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,604.03
Total From Tax Premium Account 200.00

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

Resolution 175-20 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. 2020-005, representing 2019 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11007, Lot 9.01, known as 51 Linden Ave, assessed to Fortunato, Carmen & Caryn, 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: Pro Cap 8, LLC.
US Bank Cust for Pro Cap 8
2500 McClellan Ave, Suite 200
Pennsauken, NJ 08109

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2020-005 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,618.66
Premium Paid by Lienholder 200.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,618.66
Total From Tax Premium Account 200.00

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

Resolution 176-20 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. 2020-012, representing 2019 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11301, Lot 15, known as 24 Bedford Ave, assessed to Rachel, Harry T & Michele M, 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: Pro Cap 8, LLC.
US Bank Cust for Pro Cap 8
2500 McClellan Ave, Suite 200
Pennsauken, NJ 08109

Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2020-012 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,761.90
Premium Paid by Lienholder 200.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,761.90
Total From Tax Premium Account 200.00

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

Resolution 177-20 RESOLUTION DESIGNATING RICKIE CRAWN JR. AS SUBCONTRACTOR FOR SNOW PLOWING/TEMPORARY LABORER SERVICES

WHEREAS, the Stanhope Department of Public Works desires to hire temporary Snow Plow/Temporary Laborer operator to provide Borough Snow Plowing/Temporary Laborer relief assistance should the need arise; and

WHEREAS, Rickie Crawn Jr. is available and able to provide such services; and

WHEREAS, it is deemed to be in the best interest of the Borough that Rickie Crawn Jr. be retained for future Snow Plowing / Temporary Laborer call outs should the need arise.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey that Rickie Crawn Jr. be retained as standby snow plow operator/temporary laborer at the hourly rate of $15.00 per hour for the 2020 Calendar Year.

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

Roll Call:
Councilman Cipollini – yes Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes Councilman Wronko – yes

PAYMENT OF BILLS

Resolution 178-20 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 15, 2020 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 Wronko, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.

Roll Call:
Councilman Cipollini – yes Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes Councilman Wronko – yes

ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Attorney Ursula Leo stated, with respect to tax assessments, and 100% disabled veterans, there is proposed legislation that will have the State reimbursing the towns for property taxes paid to veterans. Attorney Leo will keep the governing body updated.

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.

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 existing;

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

The public shall be excluded from discussion of and action upon the hereinafter specified subject matter(s).
The general nature of the subject matter(s) to be discussed is as follows:

2 – Personnel
3 – Contract

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 Riccardi, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.

The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 8:20 P.M.

RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 9:45 P.M. with all present.

COUNCIL DISCUSSION
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Wronko and carried by unanimous voice vote, Council granted a 3-month extension of the leave of absence for Officer Montella.

ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Cipollini, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 9:47 P.M.

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

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Borough of Stanhope