MAYOR AND COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AND AGENDA MEETING MINUTES
February 11, 2025 6:00 P.M.
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CALL TO ORDER
SALUTE TO COLORS
Mayor Wronko 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, 2025, and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building.
Furthermore, notice of the change in the meeting time was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on February 5, 2025, 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 Simpson – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wachterhauser – present
Mayor Wronko – present
2025 Municipal Budget
Salaries – Angelica Sabatini, CFO, stated the first topic for discussion is the salary increase for the non-union employees. Mayor Wronko stated, given everything being equal, he is of the opinion a five (5%) percent increase should be given. Administrator McNeilly stated the PBA is receiving a four (4%) percent increase along with all the other things that go along with their contract. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she agrees with the 5% increase. Councilman Romano stated the problem is, as has been pointed out many times by the Administrator, that Stanhope is at the low end of the salary bracket for the county and the area. It is obvious that the Borough is having trouble hiring people at the current rates. There has been no success in hiring a Construction Secretary and there has been little to no luck in replacing the CFO/Tax Collector. Mayor Wronko agreed and stated the Borough has been fortunate to retain the staff we have. Those who have left recently, however, have been difficult to replace. Councilman Wachterhauser asked how many employees this covers. Administrator McNeilly stated the Police and DPW are union employees. Ms. Sabatini stated the Administrator, and the Police Chief have contracts. Administrator McNeilly stated this salary increase would apply to 7-8 employees; some are part-time. Mayor Wronko stated several employees wear multiple hats and that does save the Borough money. Some are doing double and triple duty, which should also be considered. Councilman Simpson stated he agrees with the 5% increase. Councilman Wachterhauser stated he is indifferent. The only concern would be if there would be any contention down the line for offering the agreement employees something different than the non-agreement employees. However, the contract employees have other items which go along with their contracts. Councilman Thornton agreed with Councilman Wachterhauser’s sentiments, and 5% is not necessarily considered a lot, but he disagrees with Councilman Romano’s statement. Councilman Thornton is of the opinion that small towns tend to be a stepping stone, which has also been evident at the Board of Education meetings, and he stated the council needs to keep their minds on what is being done here. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she sees Councilman Thornton’s point and that has been an issue with the schools. It is only recently that this has impacted on the municipal office. We have lost some people, and we are not attracting new employees. Councilman Thornton stated inflation is pricing people out of town and out of the state. The employees do need to be able to make a living. Administrator McNeilly stated there is another part to this as well, which is not often spoken about. There are senior people here who have been here for a very long time. The increases over the past ten to fifteen years has not kept pace with the people who jump from job to job. Filling those positions as time goes on is going to be difficult. Councilman Thorton stated this 5% for these people is not going to be the straw that breaks the camels back. Mayor Wronko stated this is why it is important for the Borough to keep costs in check and to be looking for new opportunities to bring revenue into the Borough. Councilwoman Kuncken stated there are people wearing multiple hats and they reach a point where it is not feasible to add on anything else even if additional money is included. Councilman Thornton stated his concern is where does the percentage expectation lie for next year. He does not see it going backward. Administrator McNeilly stated in the past the increases were flat for a long time. Then there was a bump up which then went back down approximately four years ago. This operation, even on the best day, we are way short on people and way low on salary. The sins of the tax bill cannot be burdened by the 28% received. Administrator McNeilly stated he was shocked to hear from the school superintendent that the number of para-professionals has increased over the past several years from 9 to 31, which has been dictated by the state. Councilman Thornton stated it is also a result of the school administration who decided to take many of the special needs children back into the district. The state has been slashing school budgets. Councilwoman Kuncken stated often times this is a cost savings to keep the children in district. Mayor Wronko stated even with the school budget being slashed, they still receive $1.2 – $1.5 million dollars more than the municipality receives. Mayor Wronko stated based on the budget numbers provided, the total increase in dollars with the 5% increase, and if one of the positions had to be filled for someone wearing a second hat, the cost would easily hit that, if not exceed it. And that would be without giving our staff anything additional. Councilman Riccardi stated he is in agreement with the 5% increase. The increases were flat for a few years and after increasing, they did go back down. This would be possible next year depending on the financial situation. A 5% increase is not going to hurt the overall budget. Councilman Riccardi stated this is well within reason to be able to take care of the employees. Councilman Simpson stated he is in agreement for the 5% and asked if this is something which is done every year or every few years. Mayor Wronko stated the salary increase is reviewed every year and increases are based on the financial situation. Sometimes they are lower and some years we try to adjust them up. The governing body agreed to the 5% increase for the non-union employees and those without contracts.
2A Revenue Budget – Ms. Sabatini stated she worked with the Borough Auditor on this, and he is comfortable with the projections for the surplus and the miscellaneous revenues. Mayor Wronko asked why Fees & Permits are proposed with a lower amount than the actual from this year. Ms. Sabatini stated she did not want to use the actual due to the fact this includes the road opening permits. Once the gas lines are done, this number will decrease. Councilwoman Kuncken asked why there is no amount for the Safe & Secure Grant. Ms. Sabatini stated the only grants permitted to be included in the budget are those which have been awarded, or the funds have been received. Councilman Thornton asked why there has been such a drop off in the Recycle Tonnage Grant. Administrator McNeilly stated he will look into this. Some of the issues may be due to the fact there is no Recycling Coordinator in town to follow up with all the businesses to get their reports. Dollar General does send theirs in. Isolatek sends theirs in for their packaging materials. Councilman Thornton asked if it is required for the businesses to have separate dumpsters for garbage and recycling. Administrator McNeilly stated the businesses do have to recycle. The Borough does have a shared service with SCMUA for the Recycling Coordinator to file all the paperwork and certify it. No changes were made.
2B Expenses Summary – Ms. Sabatini stated 2B is the Expenses Summary which has already been reviewed. No changes were made.
1A Current Fund Budget Summary – Ms. Sabatini stated page 1A is a summary of where the taxes are with the revenues. The final figures for the Fund Balance are not available as yet. The Borough Auditor is still working on the Annual Financial Statement (AFS). The actual number will be slightly different than the one shown on the sheet provided. No changes were made.
13A Water Revenue Budget – Ms. Sabatini stated she reviewed the water and sewer budgets with the Borough Auditor. There is a larger use of Fund Balance. Based on the projections for the water and sewer study, the Borough Auditor has informed Ms. Sabatini that the figures are where he expected them to be and he does not see this as a problem. No changes were made.
14A Sewer Revenue Budget – No changes were made.
Councilman Thornton asked if the Musconetcong Sewerage Authority (MSA) increases have been included in the budget. Ms. Sabatini confirmed this and stated the next water/sewer bill which will be mailed out at the end of this month will include the next programmed price increase. The Rents Increase for both Sewer and Water are listed on 13A and 14B. The amounts listed cannot be for much more than what was collected last year. This year the budget will be under review and will be scrutinized a bit more. Administrator McNeilly stated the price increase program will take place over the next four years. This was done due to some forward visibility with what is taking place at the MSA. There is always a chance something may happen and that will have to be adjusted for, but things are good for right now.
Administrator McNeilly asked Ms. Sabatini if there was anything else to be addressed before the budget can be introduced. Ms. Sabatini stated the budget is ready. Councilwoman Kuncken stated there is one contract which is not settled as yet. Ms. Sabatini stated the budget can be introduced without the contract in place as long as there are enough funds budgeted. Administrator McNeilly stated at the February 25th meeting, any final discussions could take place with the results of the final negotiations. The budget could then be introduced at the March 11th meeting. The adoption of the budget could then be on the agenda for the April 8th meeting.
Mayor Wronko and the Council thanked Ms. Sabatini for all her work on the budget and for attending this evening’s meeting.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Sussex County Hazard Mitigation Plan – Administrator McNeilly stated, after a lengthy process, the required documents have been completed and submitted to the County for the Sussex County Hazard Mitigation Plan. In the past, this was done every ten years. Then it dropped down to every seven and then to five. Now we are ready to go with kickoff meetings after just 24 months. The main focus is on areas in the flood plain. Stanhope does have ground in the flood plain, but no buildings. The Borough does not have any problems. Administrator McNeilly thanked Eric Keller, Jason Titsworth and Wayne Anthony for their input. The draft document will be posted on the County’s website for public comment.
Hepatitis B Vaccine – Administrator McNeilly stated arrangements have been made with Sussex County to once again provide the first responders the ability to receive the Hepatitis B Vaccine.
JIF Insurance Certificates – Administrator McNeilly stated 14 insurance certificates were requested and sent out. The Sussex County Fire Academy agreement and the Morris County Fire Academy agreement have been sent out as well.
DPW Gas Pump – Administrator McNeilly stated he was happy to report the lights have been repaired at the DPW gas pumps. The DPW ordered the parts and repaired them on their own due to the inability to find a vendor to do so. All the vendors contacted were unresponsive. An upgrade is needed to conform with the new clean air regulations. The vendor is reviewing the issue, and the estimate will be provided soon.
Shred / E-Waste Day – Administrator McNeilly asked if the shredding event and electronic waste day should be scheduled for Saturday, April 26th. The governing body agreed to schedule the event. Administrator McNeilly stated he will contact the vendors to check availability. Councilman Riccardi asked Administrator McNeilly to let the Environmental Commission know when the date is confirmed.
Ryan Home Presentation – Administrator McNeilly provided a follow-up to the Ryan Home presentation which was held on January 28th. Mayor Wronko asked what the next step will be and he asked if Ryan Homes is pushing to have an ordinance introduced on the agenda. Administrator McNeilly stated he is of the opinion that Ryan Homes is anxious to move forward. They are looking for the Borough’s exact definition of high-density housing, which has been on the books since the late 1960’s. Administrator McNeilly asked if the governing body would like to discuss this issue with the Borough Attorney at the next upcoming meeting. The governing body agreed. Administrator McNeilly stated he will ask the Borough Attorney for a copy of the ordinance paperwork, and he will then forward it to the governing body for review. Much discussion took place regarding the traffic issues and how they have changed over time and the possibility of having a traffic light installed. There is an existing traffic problem at certain times of the day. Councilman Thornton asked to address these concerns with the Borough Engineer at the next meeting. Administrator McNeilly stated another issue to remember is that the property is zoned for warehousing. If a company came in and built a warehouse, that would add a bigger problem with trucks being added to these roadways.
WORK SESSION
Stanhope School Home and School Association (HSA) Request (5K Spring Event) – Mayor Wronko stated the Stanhope Home and School Association is requesting permission to sponsor a 5K event in the Spring. Administrator McNeilly stated he took the map which was emailed to him by the Stanhope HSA and compared it to the Borough tax map. Some of the lots are owned by the Borough but there are others which are privately owned. Much discussion took place regarding the various existing paths. Administrator McNeilly stated it is hard for the governing body to take a position to allow or not allow due to the fact that there is a possibility of the route going across private property. Councilman Wachterhauser stated the existing paths are not posted as no trespassing and there are no fences. Councilman Wachterhauser asked Alyssa White, one of the HSA representatives, present in the audience, if the participants will be required to sign a waiver. Ms. White stated there will be a website for the registration which will include a waiver. Non-runners will be able to register to walk the course. The paths are used by the high school for their events. Ms. White asked the governing body if there is another location that could be utilized for the run. Councilman Riccardi stated the issue is that the governing body cannot say yes or no to the course, even though the likely hood of someone objecting is minimal. Councilman Wachterhauser stated the governing body can say yes to the property owned by the Borough. Ms. White stated she is working on this project with Matt Villardo who is a member of the school board. The HSA has insurance, and the school does as well. Mayor Wronko asked if the Borough needs to be added to the waiver. Administrator McNeilly stated that is not necessary. One of the good things about the area is there are no cars. The yellow section of the course does have some difficult terrain. Administrator McNeilly advised the governing body that this is a school event, and the governing body should not take any ownership of it because they do not have the ability to do so. Ms. White stated the EMS will need to be on site and parking on the streets will have to be addressed. The event is being scheduled for Saturday, May 31st. Councilwoman Kuncken stated it is nice that the HSA is trying to do something different. Ms. White asked for permission to maintain the trails. Councilwoman Kuncken stated that is something the governing body cannot give approval for either. Administrator McNeilly provided a copy of the tax map to Ms. White. Councilman Riccardi stated the course is essentially the same one used by the school for cross country events. Councilman Wachterhauser stated, in the state of New Jersey, it is not trespassing as long as there is no signage, fencing or warning notice given by the owner. The governing body wished the HSA luck with this event.
Cannabis Ordinance – Administrator McNeilly stated the municipality can tax the cannabis product locally at a 2% retail tax which would be included in the ordinance. Copies of the proposed ordinance will be forwarded to the governing body for review. A new chapter “Cannabis License Requirements” would be added to the Code Book. This would list who can have a business, the permit fee cost annually; first year initial application fee $5,000 / renewal application $2,500 / with additional escrows that go along with those fees. There would be a new chapter by ordinance regarding the taxation regulations as determined by the CRC to outline how the 2% tax would be collected. Some of the challenges are that this is a cash-based business. Councilman Wachterhauser stated during the League of Municipalities Conference the CRC spoke about some cannabis establishments providing a lounge area. Councilman Wachterhauser stated the lounge is not a feature he is in favor of. Administrator McNeilly stated prohibiting a lounge can be added to the ordinance. Restaurants are not allowed to provide smoking indoors. So, why would a cannabis lounge be permitted. Mayor Wronko asked if the license fees are set by the state or does the municipality have the ability to change those amounts. Administrator McNeilly stated he will ask the Borough Attorney. The ordinance will be to permit cannabis retailers within the Borough, adding definitions, permitting cannabis retailers as a conditional use, and the recommendation is for this to be in the highway/commercial zone only and only for Class V. Class VI is delivery which is occurring now regardless. The ordinance will state no use of the product on site or in the parking lot.
Administrator McNeilly stated there are three aspects which should be discussed. The number of cannabis retailers needs to be determined. At least one retailer shall be provided to a NJ Certified, woman owned, veteran owned, disadvantaged, and/or a minority owned business, provided all other eligibility requirements are met. Businesses have already been vetted with the CRC at the state. Administrator McNeilly recommended three (3) cannabis retailers be permitted within the Borough. Mayor Wronko stated the Borough will provide the “guardrails” for where the businesses can be located but the potential business owners will have to obtain the locations on their own. The ordinance will also state that the locations must have direct access throughout Route 183 and Route 206. Access in and out should not take place on a residential street. The facilities shall be at least 500 feet door to door from a school, a state-licensed childcare/daycare facility, which is measured via the shortest natural path. This would prevent a cannabis business being located by the daycare on Route 183 which is located across from the hardware store. This should not cause an issue. The other restriction will be that the business cannot be located closer than 50 feet from corner to corner to any adjacent residential dwelling.
Councilman Wachterhauser asked if having three (3) retail cannabis businesses is a requirement. Administrator McNeilly stated that three is just his recommendation. Councilman Riccardi stated in his opinion, the Borough probably will never have three cannabis businesses, however having three available shows a good faith opportunity. Discussion took place regarding locations which could be utilized for a cannabis retail business. Administrator McNeilly stated one of the previous cannabis presentations was more of a boutique concept which may be a good option for a smaller location. Councilman Wachterhauser stated, due to the small footprint of the available locations, he is of the opinion only two (2) cannabis businesses should be permitted. Councilman Thornton stated he too is of the opinion to start with two businesses and if needed in the future, the ordinance could be revised. Administrator McNeilly stated he will contact the Borough Attorney to find out if the number of businesses can be changed in the future. Administrator McNeilly stated he is of the opinion that requirements for signage will be very important, and he is of the opinion no signs in the Borough should have pictures of pot leaves. Mayor Wronko asked Administrator McNeilly to confer with the Borough Attorney as to what type of signage requirements would be permitted. Councilman Riccardi stated the current signage ordinance has certain restrictions and he asked if these businesses would need to follow those as well. Administrator McNeilly stated flashing lights and neon signs would be a problem. There are no restrictions on colors, shapes or sizes. There are requirements for total square footage of signage on a property. Councilman Riccardi stated he is of the opinion that a business should be permitted to use a picture of what their business is selling. A picture of the product you are selling is easily recognizable and that is what you would want in your signage, and he does not believe this marketing tool should be restricted. Councilman Riccardi stated a good compromise would be to have the signage follow suit with the historic nature of the Borough which is already established. Administrator McNeilly will consult with the Borough Attorney. Councilwoman Kuncken asked if the vendors will need to be contacted once the use is approved, or will they be contacting the Borough. Administrator McNeilly stated he is of the opinion the vendors will be calling us. The location to Route 80 is very convenient and some of the neighboring towns are still not permitting the use. Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, will be attending the meeting at the end of the month. If everything is in place, a first reading for the cannabis ordinance could be introduced at the first meeting in March.
Fire Ordinance – Mayor Wronko stated a copy of the updated Fire Ordinance was forwarded to the governing body members. Mayor Wronko asked if there were any questions. Councilwoman Kuncken stated it is important for everyone to read through the ordinance. Councilman Thornton stated he agrees the ordinance needs to be updated but asked what is prompting this, aside from the fact the existing ordinance does not allow women in the department. Mayor Wronko replied he is the safety officer, and he attended a course. The instructor encouraged all the attendees to go back and review the ordinances in their municipalities to see if they provided the proper items for the Fire Department. Mayor Wronko stated it was determined that the Borough ordinance, which only contains two or three sentences, did not comply. Administrator McNeilly stated the current ordinance was written in 1905. It states you can outfit up to 50 men. That number, from a cost containment standpoint, has held during all this time and even now, the Borough would not want to cover the cost of more than 50. The current ordinance states that the Chief is appointed by the Mayor and approved by the governing body. Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Chief is elected by the Fire Department members. The governing body does not choose the Fire Chief. Administrator McNeilly read the current ordinance aloud which was adopted on 12/6/1905.
15-1 Establishment; title; composition
There may be formed by a number, not greater than fifty (50), all of whom shall be men of legal age, a Fire Department in said borough, to be known as “Stanhope Hose Company No. 1,” and as such may elect all necessary officers (excepting Fire Chief) and make and provide a constitution and such bylaws for its government and control as shall not be inconsistent with the laws of this state.
15-2 Selection of Fire Chief
Said Hose Company may nominate one (1) of its members as Chief, who shall become such if such nomination shall be confirmed by the Mayor and Council of said borough.
Mayor Wronko stated, since 1905, there have been many changes in the Fire Department. The ordinance needs to be updated to ensure that going forward everything is in order. The updated ordinance includes wording requiring the Fire Department to meet with the Public Safety Committee each quarter. Administrator McNeilly asked if the officers will have an opportunity to attend a Mayor and Council meeting to state on the record that they are in support of these revisions. Mayor Wronko stated, prior to the updates being sent to the Borough Attorney, the Fire Department Officers were all involved in writing the updates and they agreed to attend a meeting to show their support. Councilwoman Kuncken asked if residency is addressed. Mayor Wronko stated the new ordinance will state that members have to live within five (5) miles. Existing members are grandfathered in. Mayor Wronko stated the by-laws will apply to the association and the ordinance will manage the fire house. The fire house will still control their day-to-day things through their standard operating procedures, which does not need to be micromanaged. There is wording included that would permit the governing body to assign someone from the Public Safety Committee should an issue arise if an arbitrator is needed. Administrator McNeilly asked Mayor Wronko when the ordinance should be introduced. Mayor Wronko stated as soon as the Clerk can have it added to the agenda. Discussion took place regarding the timeframe for introduction and adoption. Administrator McNeilly stated the introduction should take place on February 25th and the adoption can be scheduled for March 25th. Any fire department member wishing to speak could then do so at the March 25th meeting. The governing body agreed.
Recreation Committee Facebook – Councilman Simpson stated the Recreation Committee asked if they could have a Facebook page to post events. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough Attorney can be consulted. Mayor Wronko stated the members can post on their own pages. Councilwoman Kuncken stated one of the members does post all the events already.
NEW BUSINESS
Ordinances for Introduction and First Reading [Public Hearing on February 25, 2025]
Mayor Wronko offered the following ordinances for Introduction and First Reading which were read by title.
Ordinance 2025-01 AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A NEW ARTICLE III OF CHAPTER 1, “GENERAL PROVISIONS”, SECTION 1-16, ENTITLED “MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS, RESTRICTED AREAS TO SAFEGUARD RECORDS”
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope officials and employees are entrusted with the responsibility to maintain and safeguard public records that consist of or contain information deemed confidential pursuant to federal, State or local law; and
WHEREAS, to ensure compliance with such laws, including the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (“OPRA”) set forth at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq. and its statutorily defined responsibilities, as well as for certain personnel records, the maintenance and custody of specific records are required; and
WHEREAS, the Borough desires to provide a productive, safe, and secure work environment in which Borough officials and employees can perform their official duties and responsibilities unimpeded or disturbed by intrusion or disruption; and
WHEREAS, due to this responsibility to maintain and safeguard records, reports, documents and information in municipal offices, records may not be available for immediate public viewing since they may contain personal information, phone numbers, social security numbers, medical data, and other confidential information; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Mayor and Council to protect records, and to create secure areas with clear signage that will prohibit persons from entering secured areas where government records exist and to a create safe, secure, productive work environment in which Borough officials and employees can perform their duties and responsibilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:
Section 1.
Chapter 1 of the Borough Code, “General Provisions”, is amended to add a new Article III, Section 1-16, “Municipal Buildings, Restricted Areas”, which shall read as follows:
Article III, Municipal Buildings, Restricted Areas
§ 1-16. Municipal Buildings, Restricted Areas to Safeguard Records
- Purpose. Municipal offices, work areas, break rooms, storage areas, and other such areas not open to the public, located in, or adjacent to any municipally owned property, leased, or controlled by the Borough shall be secured against public entry for the purpose of protecting documents, digital data, and other written, copied or printed materials, displayed on computer terminals or screens, that are not subject to the Open Public Records Act, which materials may include, but are not limited to, personally identifiable information, and to provide a productive, safe and secure work environment in which Borough officials and employees can perform their official duties and responsibilities unimpeded or disturbed by intrusion or disruption.
- Restricted areas. While the general public may be permitted to access Borough buildings during regular business hours, municipal office areas, storage, and workstations have been secured and are closed to the public for the purposes set forth in this section, including protecting documents, digital data, and other written, copied or printed materials that may contain confidential information that is protected by relevant laws and regulations. These areas include, but are not limited to, the following departments:
- Administrator’s Office
- Clerk/Registrar Office
- Finance/Tax/Utility Offices
- Zoning/Code Enforcement Office
- Employee Kitchen area
- Storage Areas
- Electrical Room
- Public Works Department Areas
- Police Department (except for the main lobby area)
- Volunteer Fire Company (except for main lobby area)
C. Conditions imposed on access to municipal facility. All persons entering Borough-owned and/or Borough-controlled property, buildings, structures, and facilities, shall be subject to the following conditions upon entering or remaining in any such property, building, structure or facility.
- All persons shall have access only to areas that are open to the public and shall not proceed past any posted sign as provided for herein and shall not enter before such time that the property, building, structure, or facility has been opened to the public, or remain therein after such property, building, structure, or facility has been closed to the public.
- All persons entering Borough property, buildings, structures, and facilities shall comply with the directions of any Borough employee, official, or agent to immediately leave any area that has been designated as a restricted area, and to immediately relocate to the nearest public area. Such directions, notwithstanding any posted signage, shall constitute notice of violation of the conditions of entry imposed upon persons of the public.
D. Signage. The Borough shall post the terms and conditions of entry into any Borough building, structure, or facility at the main entrance of all buildings, structures, or facilities to which the public is permitted to access, together with the time the property, building, structure or facility is open to the public and the time which it is closed to the public.
At the entry point of all secured areas not open to members of the public inside buildings, structures or facilities, and in all exterior areas which are required to be secured, such as but not limited to, storage of equipment, vehicles, parking area, or places that pose a danger to the public, or for security purposes, a sign shall be posted which shall state, “Stop Restricted Area, Authorized Personnel Only. Violators shall be subject to prosecution pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3”.
Section 2. 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 3. 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 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was introduced.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Simpson, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
Ordinance 2025-02 AN ORDINANCE TO VACATE HUDE ROAD, LOCATED IN STANHOPE BOROUGH
WHEREAS, there exists in the Borough of Stanhope (hereinafter “Stanhope”), a paper street known as Hude Road on the Borough’s Official Tax Map; and
WHEREAS, the public necessity and general welfare of the inhabitants of the Borough do not require that Hude Road be maintained as a public road; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope are of the opinion that the public interest will be best served by vacating, releasing and extinguishing any and all public rights which the Borough may have to Hude Road
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Morris, State of New Jersey, as follows:
Section 1.
The public rights and interests of the paper street more commonly known as Hude Road, as more particularly described on the Tax Maps of the Borough of Stanhope are hereby vacated and the public rights therein are hereby forever extinguished and the said lands referred to shall be unencumbered by public rights, as if said public rights had never existed, except for as set forth herein, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40:67-1, et seq.
Section 2.
Expressly reserved and excepted from this vacation Ordinance are all rights and privileges possessed by public utilities, including Borough utilities, as defined in N.J.S.A. 48:2-13, and by any cable television company, as defined in the Cable Television Act, N.J.S.A. 48:5A-1, et seq., to maintain, repair and replace existing facilities in and adjacent to, over and under the street or portions thereof, are hereby vacated, and the same are hereby expressly reserved and accepted from said vacation.
Also expressly reserved and excepted from this Ordinance are all rights and privileges heretofore possessed by Stanhope Borough to own, maintain, repair or replace any utilities in the vacation area.
Section 3.
The Borough Clerk shall, after the introduction and passage of this Ordinance on first reading, publish a copy of the Ordinance in the Borough’s official newspapers at least once and not less than ten (10) days prior to the time fixed for further consideration and passage pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:49-6. The Borough Clerk shall mail a copy of the Ordinance, along with a notice of introduction, to the contiguous property owners as shown on the Tax Maps of the Borough of Stanhope. Said notice shall be mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested and shall indicate the time and place when the Ordinance will be further considered for final passage by the Mayor and Council.
Section 4.
A notice of passage of this Ordinance shall be published by the Borough Clerk in accordance with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 40:49-2.
Section 5.
The Borough Clerk shall, within sixty (60) days after this Ordinance becomes effective, file a certified copy thereof under the seal of the Borough of Stanhope, together with a copy of the publication thereof, in the Office of the Clerk of Sussex County.
Section 6. 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 7. 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 8. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.
On motion by Councilman Thornton, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and carried by a majority of the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was introduced.
Councilman Riccardi asked when the notice to adjoining property owners will be sent. Ellen Horak, Borough Clerk, stated the adjoining property owners will receive notice after the introduction of the ordinance.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – no
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Wronko offered the following resolutions which were read by title.
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 059-25 RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT PUBLISHING LEGAL NOTICES ON OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITES
WHEREAS, the sunset provision of March 1, 2025 imposed under P.L. 2024 c.106 is fast approaching in what was a temporary solution that allowed local governments to comply with the public notice requirements under the law in time for annual reorganization meetings in January; and
WHEREAS, local government officials serve as the stewards of property taxpayer dollars and should no longer be required to subsidize the newspaper industry with revenues collected from publishing legal notices in the press; and
WHEREAS, long before NJ Advanced Media’s announcement that it was terminating daily print publications in January of 2025, local government officials found it increasingly difficult to comply with the public notice requirements under the law as the media has become almost exclusively digitized and struggled to retain staff, resources, and publications; and
WHEREAS, legislation that will authorize local governments to publish legal notices on a local government’s official website will streamline an antiquated and overly burdensome process and save valuable time, resources, and property taxpayer dollars; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Borough of Stanhope does in fact, hereby urge state leaders to pass legislation that will authorize municipalities, counties, school districts, and all local governments to publish legal notices in a clear, transparent, and timely manner on a local government’s official website.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution shall be sent to Governor Phil Murphy; Senate President Nicholas Scutari; Speaker of the General Assembly Craig Coughlin; Senator Parker Space; Assemblymembers Dawn Fantasia and Michael Inganamort; and the New Jersey State League of Municipalities.
Resolution 060-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE REFUND OF REDEMPTION MONIES TO OUTSIDE LIEN HOLDER
WHEREAS, at the Municipal Tax Sale held on October 19, 2023, a lien was sold on Block 11004 Lot 2, also known as 5 Ridge Road, for 2022 delinquent sewer and water charges; and
WHEREAS, this lien which is known as Tax Sale Certificate #2023-007 was sold to Pro Cap 8 FBO Firstrust Bank at 0% interest and a Premium of $300.00; and
WHEREAS, Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB, mortgagee, has effected a redemption of certificate #2023-007 in the amount of $10,173.65; and
WHEREAS, the Tax Collector certifies that the reimbursement is now required to be made for the required redemption amounts as shown below:
Redemption Amount: Outside Lien #2023-007 and Interest $10,173.65
Premium Paid by Lienholder 300.00
Total From Current Fund: $10,173.65
Total From Tax Premium Account 300.00
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey that the Governing Body acknowledges that Pro Cap 8 FBO Firstrust Bank is entitled to the redemption in the amount of $10,473.65; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chief Financial Officer be authorized to issue a check in the total amount of $10,473.65 for the total redemption of certificate #2023-007 payable to Pro Cap 8 FBO Firstrust Bank, PO Box 774, Fort Washington, PA 19034; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer and the Borough Tax Collector.
Resolution 061-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE REFUND OF REDEMPTION MONIES TO OUTSIDE LIEN HOLDER
WHEREAS, at the Municipal Tax Sale held on October 30, 2024, a lien was sold on Block 10405 Lot 5, also known as 27 Lawrence Ave, for 2023 delinquent sewer and water charges; and
WHEREAS, this lien which is known as Tax Sale Certificate #24-00002 was sold to Bala Partners, LLC at 0% interest and a Premium of $600.00; and
WHEREAS, Keith & Beth Detombeur, property owners, have effected a redemption of certificate #24-00002 in the amount of $1,239.77; and
WHEREAS, the Tax Collector certifies that the reimbursement is now required to be made for the required redemption amounts as shown below:
Redemption Amount: Outside Lien #24-00002 and Interest $1,239.77
Premium Paid by Lienholder 600.00
Total From Current Fund: $1,239.77
Total From Tax Premium Account 600.00
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey that the Governing Body acknowledges that Bala Partners, LLC is entitled to the redemption in the amount of $1,839.77; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chief Financial Officer be authorized to issue a check in the total amount of $1,839.77 for the total redemption of certificate #24-00002 payable to Bala Partners, LLC, PO Box 303, Pottersville, NJ 07979; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer and the Borough Tax Collector.
Resolution 062-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE REFUND OF REDEMPTION MONIES TO OUTSIDE LIEN HOLDER
WHEREAS, at the Municipal Tax Sale held on October 30, 2024, a lien was sold on Block 11701 Lot 13.18 Qualifier C205A, also known as 2005A Stonegate Lane, for 2023 delinquent real estate taxes; and
WHEREAS, this lien which is known as Tax Sale Certificate #24-00034 was sold to M & P Retirement Plan at 0% interest and a Premium of $7,900.00; and
WHEREAS, Robin A. Raabe, property owner, has effected a redemption of certificate #24-00034 in the amount of $6,206.51; and
WHEREAS, the Tax Collector certifies that the reimbursement is now required to be made for the required redemption amounts as shown below:
Redemption Amount: Outside Lien #24-00034 and Interest $6,206.51
Premium Paid by Lienholder 7,900.00
Total From Current Fund: $6,206.51
Total From Tax Premium Account 7,900.00
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey that the Governing Body acknowledges that M & P Retirement Plan is entitled to the redemption in the amount of $14,106.51; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chief Financial Officer be authorized to issue a check in the total amount of $14,106.51 for the total redemption of certificate #24-00034 payable to M & P Retirement Plan, PO Box 2051, Morristown, NJ 07962; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer and the Borough Tax Collector.
Resolution 063-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PAYMENT OF A STIPEND TO THE BOROUGH CONSTRUCTION OFFICIAL
WHEREAS, the Borough Construction Official, Thomas Pershouse, has been covering the positions of both Plumbing Sub-Code Official and Electrical Sub-Code Official as an additional service to his role as Construction Official; and
WHEREAS, as a result of the additional services, the Borough wishes to provide Mr. Pershouse with a stipend for his additional duties; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Pershouse shall receive an annual stipend of $3,400.00, retroactive to January 1, 2025, for Plumbing Sub-Code and Electrical Sub-Code Official duties.
NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Mayor and Council does hereby authorize the stipend of $3,400.00 annually to Mr. Pershouse, retroactive to January 1, 2025.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 064-25 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 February 11, 2025, 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 Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
AGENDA ITEMS
All items listed on the Agenda for February 25, 2025, were approved.
CITIZEN’S TO BE HEARD
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Alyssa White, Stanhope HSA, asked if they will be allowed to post signs within the Borough to advertise the 5K event. Administrator McNeilly stated posting signs on Borough property is a decision the governing body can make. The governing body agreed to permit the signage. Administrator McNeilly asked if the event will require any road closures. Ms. White stated no roads will be closed, just the parking lot. The governing body wished the HSA luck with their event and thanked Ms. White for attending this evening’s meeting.
Seeing no one further from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 7:30 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk