MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
February 28, 2023
7:00 P.M
Click Here to View/Print PDF Version of Minutes
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 4, 2023 and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and 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
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Vance – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wronko – present
Mayor Zdichocki – present
CITIZENS TO BE HEARD
Mayor Zdichocki opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Zdichocki read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
January 3, 2023 Reorganization Meeting
January 10, 2023 Work Session/Agenda Meeting
January 24, 2023 Business Meeting
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by voice vote, the list of correspondence was accepted and ordered placed on file.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
Public Safety – Councilwoman Kuncken/Councilman Vance
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Sussex County Fire Marshal, for the month of January, reported there were no fire incidents. There were two complaints responded to and handled. One was at the Black Forest for a nuisance fire alarm and the other was at 10 Furnace Street for a blocked fire department connection. Each of the complaints were resolved with discussions with the property owners. No violations or penalties were issued. There were 13 inspections conducted with no violations.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Police Department for the month of January had a total of 352 calls. The motor vehicle stops totaled 212.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Department did not submit a report to date for January. The Ambulance Squad has caught up on the submission of their reports for 2022 but did not submit a report for January as yet.
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilman Thornton
Councilman Romano stated the tax collections for January totaled $782,269.14, which is also the year to date figure. The first quarter tax collections are just under 25%. This figure is slightly behind last years rate of 27%.
Councilman Romano stated the water collections for the month of January were $29,254.11. The sewer collections for January were $34,623.66. Both of these figures are also the year to date amounts.
Community Development – Councilman Wronko/Councilman Riccardi
Councilman Wronko stated for the months of November and December there were five zoning permits submitted. Four were approved and one was denied. There were seven complaints which are being addressed.
Councilman Wronko stated for the month of January the Construction Department issued 20 permits totaling $5,714.00.
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Romano
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
Councilman Thornton stated he spoke with the DPW Superintendent, Jason Titsworth, today. The DPW employees did a great job overnight of handling the snow storm, despite being short one person. The DPW have been taking care of water leaks which have occurred on Brooklyn Road during the gas line installation. Two lead water services have been replaced. The Sussex County Engineer has indicated the plan is to pave Brooklyn Road early in the summer. The leak detection company will be brought in prior to the paving being done.
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Wronko
Councilman Riccardi stated, due to the inclement weather this morning, the Information Technology meeting has been rescheduled to tomorrow.
Boards/Commissions – Councilman Vance/Councilwoman Kuncken
Councilman Vance stated Councilman Romano has been appointed as the President of the Board of Health.
Senior Citizens Group – Mayor Zdichocki thanked the Stanhope Senior Citizens Group for coming into Borough Hall to fill the envelopes with flyers and the water bills for mailing.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
FY2022 Congressional Directed Spending – Administrator McNeilly stated that he and the CFO are uploading the required information regarding the FY2022 Congressional Directed Spending and it should be ready to submit soon.
FY2024 Congressional Directed Spending – Administrator McNeilly stated he received notification that the FY2024 Congressional Directed Spending request window is opening. Administrator McNeilly proposed that Stanhope give the water tower replacement project another try for this grant program. The Borough does not have enough water stored above ground. This project was submitted in 2023 and made it almost to the President’s desk for signature. Submitting the same project again should indicate that the Borough does have a true need for this project. Administrator McNeilly stated if there are no objections, he will ask Millennium Strategies to begin working on this. There were no objections.
Borough Sign at Sparta Road – Administrator McNeilly stated it has been brought to his attention that SignArt is no longer in business locally and there is no one to contact to have the Borough’s sign returned. Jeff Salmon, the contractor responsible for the project, is in the process of getting the sign replaced by another vendor.
NJ Natural Gas – Administrator McNeilly stated the first three road opening permits from NJ Natural Gas, for the houses on Linden Avenue, are under review. Councilman Riccardi asked if the gas company has sent out letters to the residents where the mains have been run, and if so, could a copy of the letter be obtained for the governing body to view. Administrator McNeilly stated he will ask for a copy of the notice. Weather permitting, Thursday the gas company will begin working on the section from Spring Street to Sparta Road. That will put an end to the unofficial detour that has been taking place within the detour. The gas company is aware of the arrangements necessary for getting people in and out of the Lutheran Church.
Suite Green Collective, LLC – Administrator McNeilly stated an email was received and forwarded to the governing body from Suite Green Collective, LLC on February 14th regarding a Class 5 cannabis retail location.
Crossing Guard Study – Administrator McNeilly stated he, the Police Chief and the Engineer had a very productive Zoom work session meeting yesterday regarding the Crossing Guard Study. Some of the misconceptions have been clarified. In essence, there is a project which was stated, pricing requested and this was approved by resolution. The study is being prepared now. There is an additional portion, that the Chief envisions, which will be referred to as “Phase II of the Crossing Guard Study”. This will make sure a living document is created which will list how signage is to be placed, how population is accounted for, and how roadways are looked at on a continual basis. It was agreed that the study, as originally requested, will be presented to the governing body for review and approval. After that time, a quote will be provided for Phase II and if there are funds left toward the end of year for engineering, the governing body can decide whether or not to proceed at that time. If funds are not available, the project can be discussed for the 2024 budget. Administrator McNeilly stated he and the Chief and the Engineer will be continuing to meet regarding the current study. The plan is to have the Crossing Guard Study prepared for the governing body for the April meeting. The Chief and the Engineer will be asked to attend that meeting. Councilwoman Kuncken thanked Administrator McNeilly for following through on this matter.
Lutheran Church Detour – Councilman Thornton asked if the detour at the Lutheran Church is going to direct everyone to exit to the right coming out of the church. Administrator McNeilly stated only one driveway at a time will be utilized but there will be continual access. For example, someone at the corner of Sparta Road will be permitted access to the church.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Salary Ordinance/Resolution (CFO Request) – Angelica Sabatini, CFO, stated the salary ordinance up to this time has listed the position and the exact amount of the salary. The resolution has been done in the same way. Ms. Sabatini proposed having the salary ordinance prepared listing the range for the salaries and the resolution would list the actual salary for the positions. This would eliminate the need to adopt a salary ordinance every year. In addition, if someone is hired during the year and the salary is going to be higher than what is listed on the ordinance, a new ordinance would not have to be adopted as long as it is within the range. Councilwoman Kuncken stated years ago the ordinance was done with the range listed. Administrator McNeilly stated something happened years ago to cause the change. Borough Clerk, Ellen Horak, stated that Mr. Stein, the Borough Attorney at the time, advised the governing body to list the exact salary amounts. Mayor Zdichocki asked the governing body if there were any objections to listing the salary ranges on the ordinance. There were no objections.
Claimant Signature Resolution (CFO Request) – Angelica Sabatini, CFO, stated there is a Local Finance Notice, dated 2018, which states that purchase orders for vendors do not need to be sent out for signature, except in certain circumstances. A signature is required if an employee is being reimbursed or if a direct individual is being paid. Ms. Sabatini stated she has included wording in the resolution that states a signature would be required from a vendor if she deems it necessary. When an invoice is being provided, that vendor is saying they have done the work or provided the product which the Borough has requested. There really is no need to send out paperwork for a signature which does cost money to send. This would be a cost savings. Councilman Riccardi asked if the in-house procedures will remain the same. Ms. Sabatini stated she will send out a memo to everyone to remind them that when they are signing off on a purchase order they are stating the service or product has been provided. Mayor Zdichocki asked if the governing body had any objections. There were no objections.
Cannabis Webinar – Mayor Zdichocki stated she sent an email to the governing body with information about a cannabis webinar. The webinar will provide information about a new item which is being introduced.
Suite Green Collective, LLC – Mayor Zdichocki stated representatives from Suite Green Collective would like to meet with the governing body to discuss their cannabis business. Mayor Zdichocki stated the governing body did vote against having any type of cannabis businesses being located within the Borough due to the lack of information available at that time. Other towns have now changed their ordinances to permit various uses. Mayor Zdichocki stated if there is any interest in readdressing the cannabis topic, Suite Green Collective should be invited to make their presentation. Administrator McNeilly stated the issue needs to be looked at beyond the philosophical side and try to determine where this type of business could be located within the Borough. The location has to be in a “grab and go” area. These types of businesses have a constant flow of traffic in and out. Somewhere along Route 206 or Route 183 might be suitable. The empty storefront next to Dollar General may be an option as far as security because it is located on the second floor. There is ample parking, lighting and highway access. Mayor Zdichocki stated with a Class V retail permit, the governing body can set the restrictions for everything including location and hours. Administrator McNeilly stated he would only recommend a Class V permit. Everything else is a problem for the municipality. Councilman Romano stated he heard at the MSA there can be issues with the water. Administrator McNeilly stated the facility in Lafayette is a hydroponic facility and they will not be disposing of any of the water it will be continuously rolled over. Stanhope does not have the space for a growing facility. If the governing body is interested in hearing from this particular business there is no harm or obligation in doing so. Councilman Thornton stated the letter seems like a form letter which was most likely sent out to many municipalities. He is of the opinion the company probably knows nothing about the Borough and it is his opinion that a meeting is not necessary. Administrator McNeilly stated some of the businesses are having difficulty finding available locations because the larger companies have already obtained the more popular locations. Administrator McNeilly is of the opinion that if a meeting is scheduled, the company will quickly do their due diligence to find out about the Borough. Mayor Zdichocki stated previously there were several governing body members opposed no matter what and if that is still the case then there is no reason to discuss this further. However, if there are open minds about the subject then a meeting can be scheduled to hear what these people have to say. Councilman Thornton stated he recalls in previous discussions, even with the Class V permit, there would not be enough tax revenue to offset whatever negative issues may or may not arise. Mayor Zdichocki stated some things have changed and there are towns making a great deal of money. Councilman Romano asked where the closest retail facility is to Stanhope. Administrator McNeilly stated there is one in Phillipsburg. Mayor Zdichocki stated there is one in Vernon and Councilman Vance stated there is one in Newton. Councilman Thornton stated the marijuana and other chemical products from it are readily available and legally sold in vape shops, without the need for towns to have an actual cannabis retail location. As such, he does not see the necessity for it. Councilman Romano stated he is willing to listen but at this time his position has not changed. Councilman Vance stated he is not interested. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she is willing to listen. Councilman Riccardi sees no issue with having them come and discuss the issue. The governing body can ask them questions and if there is interest in adding business to our town, when we have so few, he is not opposed to it. Councilman Wronko agreed. Councilman Wronko asked that a business plan be submitted in advance of the meeting which would contain some pertinent information and would also give the governing body an idea of what the tax revenue would be. Mayor Zdichocki asked Administrator McNeilly, based on these opinions, to invite Suite Green Collective to attend a meeting. Administrator McNeilly stated the invitation will be for them to attend the business meeting in March or April and a half hour will be set aside for the presentation. Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, suggested the governing body have an executive session prior to the meeting. Administrator McNeilly stated he will ask for any presentation materials to be provided ahead of time for the governing body to review. Administrator McNeilly will extend the invitation for 7:30pm. The regular meeting will begin at 7:00pm with an executive session at the start and the beginning meeting agenda items can be addressed prior to the presentation.
Smoke Shop – Councilwoman Kuncken asked if the owner of the Smoke Shop on Main Street, which has not opened to date, is anticipating a change to the cannabis ordinance. Administrator McNeilly stated the owner was specifically told that a change is not on the table for consideration. Any items the smoke shop may or may not be selling would be a police action.
Cannabis Retail – Councilman Thornton stated he recalls a conversation where it was determined there is no location within the Borough for a cannabis retail store with the proper structure to support the business due to the security issues and vaults required. Administrator McNeilly stated the Police Chief discussed that early on however, when the regulations were finally available, all the issues with cameras and security are sent directly to the cannabis regulatory board in Trenton.
OLD BUSINESS
ORDINANCE
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following ordinance for Public Hearing and Final Adoption which was read by title.
Ordinance for Public Hearing and Final Adoption
Ordinance 2023-01 CALENDAR YEAR 2023 ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NJ TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK
(N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14)
WHEREAS, the Local Government Cap Law, N.J.S. 40A: 4-45.1 et seq., provides that in the preparation of its annual budget, a municipality shall limit any increase in said budget up to 2.5% unless authorized by ordinance to increase it to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, subject to certain exceptions; and,
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.15a provides that a municipality may, when authorized by ordinance, appropriate the difference between the amount of its actual final appropriation and the 3.5% percentage rate as an exception to its final appropriations in either of the next two succeeding years; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope in the County of Sussex finds it advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2023 budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, in the interest of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the citizens; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council hereby determines that a 1.0% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $37,439.30 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council hereby determines that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, a majority of the full authorized membership of this governing body affirmatively concurring, that, in the CY 2023 budget year, the final appropriations of the Borough of Stanhope shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14, be increased by 3.5%, amounting to $131,037.55, and that the CY 2023 municipal budget for the Borough of Stanhope be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and,
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years; and,
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance as introduced be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services within 5 days of introduction; and,
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance upon adoption, with the recorded vote included thereon, be filed with said Director within 5 days after such adoption.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.
Mayor Zdichocki opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Riccardi, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following resolutions which were read by title.
Resolution 061-23 Resolution of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope Introducing the 2023 Municipal Budget
BE IT RESOLVED that the attached Statements of Revenues and Appropriations shall constitute the Municipal Budget for the 2023 calendar year; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a Summary of said Budget shall be published in the New Jersey Herald and the public hearing and final adoption shall be held on March 28, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building, 77 Main Street, Stanhope, NJ at which time and place objections to the 2023 Municipal Budget may be presented by taxpayers or other persons of interest.
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 062-23 SELF-EXAMINATION OF BUDGET RESOLUTION [as required by DCA]
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-78b has authorized the Local Finance Board to adopt rules that permit municipalities in sound fiscal condition to assume the responsibility, normally granted to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services, of conducting the annual budget examination; and
WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 5:30-7 was adopted by the Local Finance Board on February 11, 1997; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-7.2 through 7.5, the Borough of Stanhope has been declared eligible to participate in the program by the Division of Local Government Services, and the Chief Financial officer has determined that the local government meets the necessary conditions to participate in the program for the 2023 budget year.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the governing body of the Borough of Stanhope that in accordance with N.J.A.C. 5:30-7.6a & 7.6b and based upon the Chief Financial Officer’s certification, the governing body has found the budget has met the following requirements:
1. That with reference to the following items, the amounts have been calculated pursuant to law and appropriated as such in the budget:
a. Payment of interest and debt redemption charges
b. Deferred charges and statutory expenditures
c. Cash deficit of preceding year
d. Reserve for uncollected taxes
e. Other reserves and non-disbursement items
f. Any inclusions of amounts required for school purposes.
2. That the provisions relating to limitation on increases of appropriations pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.2 and appropriations for exceptions to limits on appropriations found at N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.3 et seq., are fully met (complies with CAP law).
3. That the budget is in such form, arrangement, and content as required by the Local Budget Law and N.J.A.C. 5:30-4 and 5:30-5.
4. That pursuant to the Local Budget Law:
a. All estimates of revenue are reasonable, accurate and correctly stated,
b. Items of appropriation are properly set forth
c. In itemization, form, arrangement and content, the budget will
permit the exercise of the comptroller function within the municipality.
5. The budget and associated amendments have been introduced and publicly advertised in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Local Budget Law, except that failure to meet the deadlines of N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5 shall not prevent such certification.
6. That all other applicable statutory requirements have been fulfilled.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution will be forwarded to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services upon adoption.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 063-23 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 FOR BOWMAN CONSULTING GROUP FOR THE VALLEY ROAD & DELAWARE AVENUE SIDEWALK AND ADA RAMP IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
WHEREAS, engineering services are required by the Borough for design and inspection of the Valley Road and Delaware Avenue Sidewalk and ADA Ramp Improvements Project; and
WHEREAS, a contract was entered into for engineering services for design and inspection for the Valley Road and Delaware Avenue Sidewalk and ADA Ramp Improvements Project between the Borough of Stanhope and Bowman Consulting Group, for an original contract price not to exceed $33,300.00 by the adoption of Resolution No. 120-22 on June 28, 2022; and
WHEREAS, Bowman Consulting Group submitted a proposal dated March 7, 2022, to complete such services for $33,300.00; and
WHEREAS, Bowman Consulting Group has submitted Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $3,500.00 to complete the construction observation services, increasing the overall contract amount to $36,000.00; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that there are available funds to award Change Order No. 1.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, authorizes Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $3,500.00.
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 064-23 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MUNICIPAL ADVISOR SERVICES OF PHOENIX ADVISORS, LLC
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope has a need for a Municipal Advisor to assist with the issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes in the Borough; and
WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law (N.J.S.A. 40:11-1 et seq.) exempts professional services from public advertising for bids which may be awarded by resolution of the Governing Body; and
WHEREAS, the Borough would like to acquire the services of Phoenix Advisors, LLC as Municipal Advisor to assist with the issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes.
NOW, THEREFORE, 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 Mayor is hereby authorized and the Borough Clerk to attest to an Engagement Letter and Municipal Advisory Agreement between the Borough of Stanhope and Phoenix Advisors, LLC with regard to the aforesaid services, as per the proposal submitted by Phoenix Advisors, LLC.
2. That the Chief Financial Officer has certified that there are adequate funds available for the purpose of this award for $1,000 plus $0.25 per $1,000 issued (per transaction; an additional fee of $1,000 applies when notes are sold with a Preliminary Official Statement) as compensation to Phoenix Advisors, LLC.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 065-23 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR RECYCLABLE MATERIALS COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope currently provides for the collection and disposal of municipal recyclable materials for certain properties located in the Borough; and
WHEREAS, the Borough’s current contract for the collection and disposal of municipal recyclable materials expires as of May 31, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Borough wishes to continue to provide for the limited collection and disposal of municipal recyclable materials; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Attorney has prepared Bid Specifications in accordance with the Local Public Contracts Law and NJDEP Regulations for the collection and disposal of municipal recyclable materials, including the required Notice to Bidders;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Borough is hereby authorized to advertise for a new contract for the collection and disposal of municipal recyclable materials effective June 1, 2023 in accordance with the prepared bid Specifications.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 066-23 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope currently provides for the collection and disposal of municipal solid waste for certain properties located in the Borough; and
WHEREAS, the Borough’s current contract for the collection and disposal of municipal solid waste expires as of May 31, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Borough wishes to continue to provide for the limited collection and disposal of municipal solid waste; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Attorney has prepared Bid Specifications in accordance with the Local Public Contracts Law and NJDEP Regulations for the collection and disposal of municipal solid waste, including the required Notice to Bidders;
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Borough is hereby authorized to advertise for a new contract for the collection and disposal of municipal solid waste effective June 1, 2023 in accordance with the prepared bid Specifications.
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
CONSENT AGENDA (All items listed on the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the Borough Council and were enacted by one motion of the Borough Council with no separate discussion.)
Resolution 067-23 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING STANHOPE HOSE CO. #1 TO CONDUCT A BUCKET DROP
WHEREAS, Stanhope Hose Company No. 1 has indicated a desire to hold a “Bucket Drop” July 7th to and including July 9th, 2023, within the hours of 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, at the intersection of State Rt. 183 and CR 602 in the Borough of Stanhope and on Linden Avenue from State Route 183 to McKinley Street and on Stanhope Sparta Road near the intersection of Brooklyn Road; and
WHEREAS, should the weather be inclement, the following rain dates and times will be utilized instead, at the same locations: July 14th to and including July 16th, 2023 within the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and
WHEREAS, Fire Department personnel are to be stationed at the above-mentioned location and all collections shall be done in a manner as to not impede the flow of traffic at any time, pursuant to the Traffic Safety Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Borough directs the Chief of Police to sign the NJDOT application for a charitable solicitation permit and to monitor compliance of the Traffic Safety Plan as necessary; and
WHEREAS, Fire Department members shall wear safety vests and traffic safety setup shall conform with the “Manual on Uniform Traffic Control”; and
WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 16:40-3.1 et seq. requires charitable organizations to obtain approval of the Commissioner of Transportation before soliciting contributions within State highways and County Commissioners approval for county highways.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, State of New Jersey hereby approves the Stanhope Hose Company No. 1’s request to hold a “Bucket Drop” on July 7th to and including July 9th, 2023, within the hours of 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, at the intersection of State Rt. 183 and CR 602 in the Borough of Stanhope and on Linden Avenue from State Route 183 to McKinley Street and on Stanhope Sparta Road near the intersection of Brooklyn Road and rain dates of July 14th to and including July 16th, 2023 within the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the same locations, per the Traffic Safety Plan and subject to obtaining approval of the Sussex County Board of County Commissioners and a charitable solicitation permit from the New Jersey State Department of Transportation.
Resolution 068-23 Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Fiscal Grant Cycle FY2024
WHEREAS, the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse established the Municipal Alliances for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse in 1989 to educate and engage residents, local government and law enforcement officials, schools, nonprofit organizations, the faith community, parents, youth and other allies in efforts to prevent alcoholism and drug abuse in communities throughout New Jersey.
WHEREAS, The Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey recognizes that the abuse of alcohol and drugs is a serious problem in our society amongst persons of all ages; and therefore has an established Municipal Alliance Committee; and,
WHEREAS, the Borough Council further recognizes that it is incumbent upon not only public officials but upon the entire community to take action to prevent such abuses in our community; and,
WHEREAS, the Borough Council has applied for funding to the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse through the County of Sussex;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex does hereby recognize the following:
- The Borough Council does hereby authorize submission of a strategic plan for the Lenape Valley Municipal Alliance grant for fiscal year 2024 in the amount of: DEDR $ 3,918.00 // Cash Match $ 979.50 // In-Kind $ 2,938.50
- The Borough Council acknowledges the terms and conditions for administering the Municipal Alliance grant, including the administrative compliance and audit requirements.
Resolution 069-23 BOROUGH OF STANHOPE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF ESCROW FOR BLOCK 11701 LOT 20
WHEREAS, Anthony Milelli was required to post an escrow deposit for variance for Block 11701, Lot 20, 177 Us Highway 206; and
WHEREAS, the engineer review is complete; and
WHEREAS, the work is complete and there is no further billing forthcoming; and
WHEREAS, there are unused funds in the amount of $175.00.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Borough shall refund to the following owner the following amount:
Anthony Milelli $175.00
177 Route 206 North
Stanhope, NJ 07874
Resolution 070-23 BOROUGH OF STANHOPE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF ESCROW FOR BLOCK 11701 LOT 2
WHEREAS, Manjit Bajwa was required to post an escrow deposit for variance for Block 11701, Lot 2, 273 Us Highway 206; and
WHEREAS, the engineer review is complete; and
WHEREAS, the work is complete and there is no further billing forthcoming; and
WHEREAS, there are unused funds in the amount of $2,982.13.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Borough shall refund to the following owner the following amount:
Bajwa, Manjit S & Ravinder K $2,982.13
8 Peachtree Ln
Chester, NJ 07930
Resolution 071-23 BOROUGH OF STANHOPE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF ESCROW FOR BLOCK 10612 LOT 1
WHEREAS, William Poisseroux was required to post an escrow deposit for variance for Block 10612, Lot 1, 10 Hillside Ave; and
WHEREAS, the engineer review is complete; and
WHEREAS, the work is complete and there is no further billing forthcoming; and
WHEREAS, there are unused funds in the amount of $354.62.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Borough shall refund to the following owner the following amount:
William Poisseroux $354.62
10 Hillside Ave
Stanhope, NJ 07874
Resolution 072-23 BOROUGH OF STANHOPE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF ESCROW FOR BLOCK 11207 LOT 11
WHEREAS, Vicenzo Bruzzese was required to post an escrow deposit for variance for Block 11207, Lot 11, 67-69 Main St; and
WHEREAS, the engineer review is complete; and
WHEREAS, the work is complete and there is no further billing forthcoming; and
WHEREAS, there are unused funds in the amount of $434.72.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Borough shall refund to the following owner the following amount:
Vicenzo Bruzzese $434.72
PO Box 603
Netcong, NJ 07857
Resolution 073-23 BOROUGH OF STANHOPE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF ESCROW FOR BLOCK 11303 LOT 15
WHEREAS, Ryan Leavy was required to post an escrow deposit for variance for Block 11303, Lot 15, 20 King St; and
WHEREAS, the engineer review is complete; and
WHEREAS, the work is complete and there is no further billing forthcoming; and
WHEREAS, there are unused funds in the amount of $0.01.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Borough shall refund to the following owner the following amount:
Ryan Leavy $0.01
20 King St
Stanhope, NJ 07874
Resolution 074-23 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. 2022-012 representing 2021 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11701, Lot 13.18 Qual C0806 known as 806 Stonegate Lane, assessed to Audrey Winkler, 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: Evolve Bank & Trust
600 Poplar Ave
Suite 300
Memphis, TN 38119
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2022-012 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,977.18
Premium Paid by Lienholder 3,800.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,977.18
Total From Tax Premium Account 3,800.00
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 Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, with the exception for resolution 067-23 which Councilman Wronko abstained from, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Mayor’s Appointment
Resolution 075-23 MAYOR’S APPOINTMENT OF LINDA CHIRIP AS RECEPTIONIST WITH COUNCIL CONCURRENCE
Mayor’s appointment of Linda Chirip as Receptionist with Council concurrence.
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Stanhope that they do hereby concur with the Mayor’s appointment of Linda Chirip as Receptionist effective immediately at an annual salary of $5,000.00 retroactive to January 1, 2023.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 076-23 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 28, 2023 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.
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
ATTORNEY REPORT
Borough Attorney, Ursula Leo, stated she had no report this evening.
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.
Rosemarie Maio, 31 Maple Terrace, stated she would like to speak to the governing body tonight as the Chairperson of the Land Use Board. Ms. Maio stated back in November there was a presentation made to the governing body from a property owner complaining how they were treated by the Land Use Board and the fact that her application had been dismissed. She said it was essentially dismissed unfairly. Ms. Maio stated she feels it necessary to provide some background information. The application was for Juntos Holdings, which has been before the Land Use Board for many years. The application was dismissed and was done so on the advice of the board’s attorney for the following reasons. The Juntos attorney had presented to the Land Use Board that the company would be providing an entirely new site plan and use plan, which was based on the fact that they had acquired properties adjacent to their existing building that were not part of the original plan. Their whole plan had changed and they now wanted areas to park buses overnight and large trucks would be accessing the property on a quarterly basis. This plan was very different than the one that had been described to the Land Use Board over the course of many months. The applicant’s attorney announced at the September Land Use Board meeting that an entirely new plan was coming to the board to tie up all the loose ends and to utilize the new properties. Also in attendance at that meeting, along with their attorney, were the applicants and their Engineer. The Land Use Board attorney stressed the fact that a whole new application was going to be presented and the applicant’s attorney replied yes. They would be coming back maybe not the next month but certainly by the month after that with the new site plan. They did not attend the following meeting and the Land Use Attorney stated we cannot have an open application because a new application was going to be submitted. The board’s attorney recommended the application be dismissed so when the new plan was submitted it could go right to a completion hearing and move forward. This is what the Land Use Board did. Ms. Maio stated she is sorry to say, but the statement made by Mrs. Yelenko that she knew nothing about this is false. She was in attendance at the meeting when her attorney stated a new plan was going to be submitted to move forward. Ms. Maio stated the Land Use Board has done nothing wrong and has no apology for what was done. The applicant has not been back to the Land Use Board. The governing body thanked Ms. Maio for the information.
Seeing no one further from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Wronko, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 7:43 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak
Borough Clerk