MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
May 23, 2023
7:00 P.M.
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CALL TO ORDER
SALUTE TO COLORS
Mayor Zdichocki invited all those present to stand in a salute to the colors.
MAYOR’S STATEMENT AS TO COMPLIANCE WITH P.L. 1975
Adequate Notice of this Meeting has been provided according to the Open Public Meetings Act, Assembly Bill 1030. Notice of this Meeting was included in the Annual Meeting Notice sent to the New Jersey Herald and the Daily Record on January 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
Council Members:
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Wachterhauser– present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wronko – present
Mayor Zdichocki – present
CITIZEN’S 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:
April 11, 2023 Work Session/Agenda Meeting
April 25, 2023 Business Meeting
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Thornton 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 Fire Department reported, for the month of April, that they answered 7 calls, had 3 mutual aid calls, 3 drills, 1 training and 1 meeting for a total of 126.25 volunteer hours.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Marshal, for the month of April, reported 18 inspections were conducted. One inspection failed and this needed to be corrected and abated by May 18th.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Police Department, for the month of April, reported 169 motor vehicle stops and they had a total of 349 calls.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Ambulance Squad, for the month of January, reported 46 calls, and 4 out of town calls; 1 in Byram, and 3 in Hopatcong. They made 25 trips to the hospital for a total of 769 miles travelled. The volunteered hours totaled 212 hours and 39 minutes. For the month of February, the Ambulance Squad reported a total of 56 calls; 17 in Stanhope and 30 in Netcong. There were 9 out of town calls; 3 in Byram and 6 in Hopatcong. They made 20 trips to the hospital and travelled 593 miles. The volunteered hours for the month totaled 227 hours and 40 minutes.
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilman Thornton
Councilman Romano stated, for the month of April, the Tax Collections totaled $2,249,318.89 and the year to date total is $5,435,426.32. For the first quarter of 2023, 97% of the taxes have been collected. For the second quarter, 71% of the taxes have been collected. The overall tax collections total 84%.
Councilman Romano stated the Water Collections for the month of April totaled $37,047.59. The year to date total is $221,801.88. The Sewer Collections for the month of April totaled $41,507.17 and the year to date total is $266,607.64.
Community Development – Councilman Wronko/Councilman Riccardi
Councilman Wronko stated there were 30 Construction Permits issued for the month of April. The total amount of fees collected was $5,398.00.
Councilman Wronko stated the Memorial Day Parade will be taking place on Monday, May 29th. Mayor Zdichocki stated anyone interested in marching should meet at the Netcong School at noon and it would be nice for everyone marching to wear their Stanhope shirts.
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Romano
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
Councilman Thornton stated the hydrant flushing was completed in late April. The leaf and brush collection have been completed and the equipment has been stored away. The DPW has been busy cleaning the streets, planting trees and getting ready for the parade. Councilman Thornton stated he is sure everything will look great for Monday.
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Wronko
Councilman Riccardi stated both the Incident Response Plan and the Master Technology Policy will be ready for review soon. The Technology Committee will hold a meeting to discuss the next steps. We are still waiting on responses from other towns who have been contacted asking them to provide their IT costs and possible availability for shared IT services. Administrator McNeilly has contacted the MEL vendor to obtain IT security training information for the office personnel and the governing body. Administrator McNeilly stated currently anything to do with our cyber insurance has been handled by private industry. However, just like what brought about the MEL and JIF, where it was felt that these things could be done better in-house, they decided to create the Cyber JIF. There are still issues being worked out so currently it is operating with outside insurance carriers. Once the Cyber JIF is functioning, just like the safety inspections are done by the safety director, all of the Borough’s reviews and training will be done through here as well. Hopefully, this will be ready within the next two months or so, after the regulatory issues are settled.
Boards/Commissions – Councilman Vance/Councilwoman Kuncken
Councilman Wachterhauser stated minutes were received from the Sussex County Solid Waste Advisory Council for February 14th. The Shade Tree Commission minutes for April 4th, the Recreation minutes for April 5th, the Lake Musconetcong Regional Planning Board minutes for April 19th, the Land Use Board minutes for April 10th, and the Board of Health minutes for April 12th were all received. The Recreation Commission is planning Family Fun Day for July 15th.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the annual Pig Roast Fundraiser will be held on Friday, June 9th and the proceeds benefit the Fire Department and the Ambulance Squad. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she and Rosemarie Maio have tickets for sale and the cost is $35.00 each. This is always a nice event and it would be nice to see everyone there.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
NJ DEP Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated Borough Engineer, Eric Keller, has provided his engineering quote for the storm water management mapping project. This project is funded by a NJDEP grant. We have received 50% of the grant upfront and the final 50% will arrive once the project is complete. The Engineer’s proposal was emailed to the governing body prior to the meeting. The Engineer’s total cost is approximately $24,800 out of the $25,000. Mayor Zdichocki stated if funding is available within the grant for traffic control, this should be included, as opposed to having the Borough’s DPW responsible for flagging. Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Engineer has already stated the DPW would be handling the flagging. Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW always does this. However, the infrastructure for stormwater is not located in the middle of the road. It is in the retention basins and outflow into the lake. The likelihood of having to set up shop in the roadway is pretty slim. For larger jobs, the Engineer will have to put in for flaggers. Councilwoman Kuncken stated Mr. Keller is counting on the Borough to send out the notifications. Administrator McNeilly stated the notices will be sent out through Nixle and the website.
E-Ticket System – Administrator McNeilly stated, as part of the court system switch over, there is a need to transition to e-ticket. Chief Pittigher arranged for a demonstration which was attended by the Mayor and Council President. The system, as quoted, will provide for the in-car capability for the Police Department and for a desktop version for the Code Enforcement Officer as well. The Animal Control Officer in Hopatcong will still have a paper ticket book from Stanhope. The costs savings associated with the change in court systems will cover the costs associated with using this system. Councilwoman Kuncken stated this is a five-year commitment. The cost remains the same each year and the court owns the equipment. Administrator McNeilly stated it will take some time to integrate the new system.
Bender Family Memorial Bench Donation – Administrator McNeilly stated he and the DPW Superintendent met with the Bender family on Friday regarding their desire to donate a bench in memory of their brother Bruce Bender. The location for the bench is lakeside at Musconetcong Park with a small plaque. The tree honoring Lorraine Bender is located near the bench location. Once the cost is determined, a resolution will be prepared for the governing body to accept the donation for the purchase of the bench.
2023 Local Recreation Improvement Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated a meeting is scheduled for Thursday with a representative from Ben Shaffer Recreation to begin to draft a design plan for the upgraded playground for Dell Road Park. Ben Shaffer is in the Education Services Commission of NJ Co-op (ESCNJ). The Borough is a member of the ESCNJ and therefore going out to bid will not be required. The company’s landscape architect will design a system based on the size of the area and the funds available. Once that drawing is provided it will be distributed to the governing body for discussion. Councilwoman Kuncken stated some of the systems have a main piece that can be purchased and installed and then added onto in the future. Some of the pieces require a fall zone. Administrator McNeilly stated all of our playgrounds have the requirement for some type of compressed material on the ground. The old equipment, which is approximately 25 years, old will be removed except for the swings and the slide. Every child should have the chance to go down a metal slide which has sat in the sun. It is a life lesson. The two existing main structures can be replaced. The fence is in good condition. Work does not need to be done for the parking lot. The border area will need to be redone. Some updates might be able to be done to the half court basketball court and perhaps something in the open field which leads to the sewer easement. Mayor Zdichocki stated the catalog shows a combination basketball court with a pickle ball court, which is the latest fad. Administrator McNeilly stated this would be a separate project. All of the $71,000 being provided will be utilized for the playground along with some Borough funds which have been set aside for this purpose. This subject will be discussed again at the June 13th meeting when more details are available.
Congressional Directed Spending 2022 – Administrator McNeilly stated the Congressional Directed Spending water main project paperwork continues.
Borough Maintenance – Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW has replaced the three dead and dying streetscape trees located on Main Street. They have also installed the flag banners, planted flowers and, as part of a shared service with Hopatcong Borough, the street was swept with the streetsweeper. On Friday at 9:30am, the trailer/stage will be set up for the parade and it will be removed on Tuesday.
Road Repair – Administrator McNeilly stated Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, will be present at the June 13th meeting. Administrator McNeilly stated he was speaking with Mr. Keller regarding road repair which had been put to the side due to the gas line installation. Mr. Keller’s recommendation is to submit Main Street on the Local Aid Grant for 2024. The Borough has come very far with road repair and putting a pause on this would not be advisable. If paused this would be repeating history and then trying to catch up again. Main Street has not been paved since prior to 2009. The road has high usage and it is wearing out. Just like what was done on Sparta Road could be done for Main Street. Sparta Road was just paved last year but with 2017 funding. If Main Street receives the award next April, the funds have to be used within two years. But, even after that, a request can be made to NJDOT to extend it for an additional year. Next year the focus would be on funding for Grove Road, Delaware Avenue and the roads near the school. Administrator McNeilly asked the governing body for approval to move forward with the Main Street funding. A resolution will be prepared for the next meeting. Councilwoman Kuncken stated the crosswalk near the school by Valley Road School is like a giant pothole and she asked why this was not included in the Valley Road project which was recently completed. Administrator McNeilly stated Mr. Keller has stated in the past, as soon as the face of a crosswalk is touched, the entire crosswalk has to be redone. That crosswalk is slated to be redone with Elm Street. The same situation exists at Spencer Street.
NJ Natural Gas – Mayor Zdichocki asked if NJ Natural Gas is still sending out letters to homeowners asking if they are interested in changing over to natural gas service. Administrator McNeilly confirmed letters are being sent out. The Borough owns property at 156 Brooklyn Road and we did receive a letter. The letter does state there is a moratorium on the timeframe for being able to connect on Brooklyn Road due to the County’s plan to pave the road. Discussion took place regarding paving of roads and gas line installation. Residents need to make decisions sooner rather than later. There are some natural gas customers in the Borough already.
Decorative Tree Maintenance – Councilman Thornton stated the decorative tree on Main Street, located in front of the apartment building, is touching the building. Administrator McNeilly stated he and the DPW Superintendent walked the entire street and the tree in question is scheduled to be trimmed.
Municipal Infrastructure Meeting – Councilman Thornton stated he would like to schedule an Infrastructure meeting.
Street Lamp on Sparta Road – Councilman Riccardi asked for an update on the street lamp in need of replacement on Sparta Road. Administrator McNeilly stated he does not have an update at this time. He will need to speak to the DPW Superintendent. When the insurance money is received, two complete street lamps will be ordered. In the 15 years that the street lamps have been on Main Street, only one was ever damaged. On Sparta Road, we have lost two in six months. Administrator McNeilly stated the TAP Grant did not allow the Borough to purchase spare street lamps. However, in hind sight the Borough should have purchased some spare lamps at that time.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Resolution Authorizing Participation in the Sussex County Volunteer Fire and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program Funded by the American Rescue Plan – Administrator McNeilly stated the funding the Borough originally received from the American Rescue Plan was $234,000. Originally, based on the guidance from the Administrator and the CFO, that funding was going to be allocated for the water line replacement project on Sunset Avenue, Ridge Road and Overhill Road. In further review and listed in the documentation from all of the classes for the water line replacement project, the Borough cannot use other federal funds as part of the matching funds for this project. Sussex County received a large sum of funding and what remains will be divided up among the Fire Departments who request to be included. The amount to be awarded is approximately $71,000 and if the department applies for it they will get it. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she is of the opinion the Fire Department should send in a request. Councilman Wronko stated the application has been prepared and a resolution from the governing body is required as part of the application process. The deadline for submission of the application is June 30th. Councilwoman Kuncken asked if the Ambulance Squad is eligible to receive this funding, as the title does state it is for Volunteer Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Administrator McNeilly will look into this and he will forward the information to the Ambulance Squad. The squad would need to file on their own. Borough Clerk, Ellen Horak, stated a copy of the resolution has already been forwarded to the governing body and she asked if the resolution should be placed on the June 13th agenda. The governing body confirmed this should be on the agenda.
OLD BUSINESS
Ordinances for Public Hearing and Final Adoption
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following ordinances for Public Hearing and Final Adoption which were read by title.
Ordinance 2023-09 ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF VARIOUS ROADS IN AND BY THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AND APPROPRIATING $287,000 THEREFOR CONSTITUTING PROCEEDS OF A GRANT FROM THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The improvement described in Section 2 of this ordinance is hereby authorized as a general improvement to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey, and there is hereby appropriated therefor the sum of $287,000 constituting moneys received or expected to be received by the Borough from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 as a grant-in-aid of financing said improvement.
Section 2. The improvement hereby authorized and the purpose for the financing of which the appropriation is made as provided in Section 1 of this ordinance is the improvement and reclamation of various roads in and by the Borough including Ridge Road, Overhill Road, Mountainview Road and West Street, together with all the aforesaid all paving, structures, appurtenances, engineering, surveys, equipment, work and materials necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the plans and specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and hereby approved.
Section 3. The capital budget or temporary capital budget of the Borough is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency herewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing all detail of the amended capital budget or temporary capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, are on file with the Borough Clerk and are available for public inspection.
Section 4. The ordinance of the Borough adopted on November 9, 2021 (#2021-15) and entitled: “Ordinance providing for the improvement of the water supply and distribution system in and by the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, appropriating $173,017.12 therefor constituting proceeds of a grant from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021” is hereby repealed. Any moneys expended and obligations incurred pursuant to appropriation made by said ordinance shall be accounted and deemed to have been expended or incurred pursuant to this ordinance.
Section 5. This ordinance shall take effect after publication after final passage as provided by law.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Wronko 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.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
On motion by Councilman Romano, 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.
Ordinance 2023-10 BOND ORDINANCE MAKING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF $160,000 FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM IN AND BY THE BOROUGH HERETOFORE AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $152,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR FINANCING SUCH SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The improvement described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance has heretofore been and is hereby authorized as a general improvement to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey, by the bond ordinance (the “Prior Ordinance”) of the Borough adopted on May 10, 2022, entitled: “Bond ordinance providing for the improvement of the water supply and distribution system in and by the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, appropriating $687,540 therefor and authorizing the issuance of $10,540 bonds or notes of the Borough for financing such appropriation”. The cost of the improvement described in Section 3(a) of this bond ordinance, estimated in May, 2022, at $687,540 is now estimated at $847,540. By the Prior Ordinance there has been appropriated to payment of the cost of said improvement the sum of $687,540. It is now necessary for the Borough to raise the additional sum of $160,000 to meet the remainder of said $847,540 estimated cost of said improvement (including for purposes of applicable United States Treasury regulations reimbursing expenditures hereafter made for said improvement or purpose) not provided by the appropriation therefor made by the Prior Ordinance.
Section 2. For the said improvement or purpose stated in Section 3(a) of this bond ordinance, and in addition to the sum of $687,540 heretofore appropriated therefor by the Prior Ordinance, there is hereby appropriated the further sum of $160,000 including the sum of $8,000 as a down payment for said improvement or purpose required by law and now available therefor. Said additional appropriation of $160,000 shall be financed and met from the said down payment and the proceeds of negotiable bonds of the Borough which are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of $152,000 pursuant to the Local Bond Law of New Jersey. In anticipation of the issuance of said bonds and to temporarily finance said improvement or purpose, negotiable notes of the Borough in a principal amount not exceeding $152,000 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
Section 3. (a) The improvement authorized by Section 3(a) of the Prior Ordinance and by this bond ordinance and purpose for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued is the improvement of the water supply and distribution system in and by the Borough, including by the installation and rehabilitation of water mains in and along various roads, including also the pavement reclamation of Sunset Avenue, together with all the aforesaid all paving, site work, structures, appurtenances, engineering, surveys, equipment, work and materials necessary therefore or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the plans and specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and heretofore and hereby approved.
(b) The estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for said purpose is $162,540 inclusive of the $10,540 principal amount of bonds or notes of the Borough heretofore authorized for said improvement or purpose pursuant to the Prior Ordinance.
(c) The estimated cost of said purpose is $847,540 inclusive of the sum of $687,540 heretofore appropriated for said improvement by the Prior Ordinance.
Section 4. The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:
(a) The said purpose described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance is not a current expense and is a property or improvement which the Borough may lawfully acquire or make as a general improvement, and no part of the cost thereof has been or shall be specially assessed on property specially benefited thereby.
(b) The period of usefulness of said purpose within the limitations of said Local Bond Law, according to the reasonable life thereof computed from the date of the said bonds authorized by this bond ordinance, is forty (40) years.
(c) The supplemental debt statement required by said Local Bond Law has been duly made and filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and a complete executed duplicate thereof has been filed in the office of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey, and such statement shows that, while the net debt of the Borough determined as provided in said Local Bond Law is not increased by this bond ordinance, the gross debt of the Borough as defined in said Local Bond Law is increased by the authorization of the bonds and notes provided for in this bond ordinance by $160,000, and the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
(d) An aggregate amount not exceeding $25,000 for interest on said obligations, costs of issuing said obligations and other items of expense listed in and permitted under section 40A:2-20 of said Local Bond Law may be included as part of the additional cost of said improvement and has been included in the foregoing $160,000 additional estimated cost thereof.
(e) This bond ordinance authorizes obligations of the Borough solely for purposes described in paragraph (h) of section 40A:2-7 of said Local Bond Law, and the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance are to be issued for a purpose which is self-liquidating within the meaning and limitations of section 40A:2-45 of said Local Bond Law and are deductible, pursuant to paragraph of (c) of section 40A:2-44 of said Local Bond Law, from the gross debt of the Borough.
Section 5. All bond anticipation notes issued hereunder shall mature at such times as may be determined by the chief financial officer, acting chief financial officer or treasurer of the Borough (the “Chief Financial Officer”), provided that no note shall mature later than one year from its date. The notes shall bear interest at such rate or rates and be in such form as may be determined by the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer shall determine all matters in connection with the notes issued pursuant to this bond ordinance, and the Chief Financial Officer’s signature upon the notes shall be conclusive evidence as to all such determinations. All notes issued hereunder may be renewed from time to time subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A. §40A:2-8. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to sell part or all of the notes from time to time at public or private sale at not less than par and to deliver them to the purchasers thereof upon receipt of payment of the purchase price plus accrued interest from their dates to the dates of delivery thereof. The Chief Financial Officer is directed to report in writing to the governing body of the Borough at the meeting next succeeding the date when any sale or delivery of the notes pursuant to this bond ordinance is made. Such report must include the principal amount, interest rate and maturities of the notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser.
Section 6. The full faith and credit of the Borough are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance. Said obligations shall be direct, unlimited obligations of the Borough, and, unless paid from revenues of the water supply and distribution system of the Borough, the Borough shall be obligated to levy ad valorem taxes upon all the taxable property within the Borough for the payment of said obligations and interest thereon without limitation of rate or amount.
Section 7. The capital budget or temporary capital budget of the Borough is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency herewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing all detail of the amended capital budget or temporary capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, are on file with the Borough Clerk and are available for public inspection.
Section 8. This bond ordinance shall take effect twenty (20) days after the first publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by said Local Bond Law.
On motion by Councilman Wronko, 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.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
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
Resolution 114-23 RESOLUTION TO CANCEL CAPITAL BALANCES
WHEREAS, certain Capital Improvement appropriation balances remain dedicated to projects now completed and/or cancelled; and
WHEREAS, the Finance Officer certifies that it is necessary to formally cancel said balances so that the unexpended balances may be returned to either Capital Improvement Fund or Surplus or Reserves, and unused debt authorizations and grant receivables may be canceled;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the following unexpended and dedicated balances of General Capital, Water Capital, and Sewer Capital Appropriations be canceled:
General Capital Amount Cancelled
Ord. # Project Description Funded Unfunded
2016-11 Supp Main Street Lighting $ 363.60
2018-03 NJ TAP Grant $148,926.83
2018-09 Fire Vehicle-Pumper $ 3,002.41
2018-09 Upgrade Communications/Tower $ 1,821.14
2019-01 Bond Ord-Various Impr $ 20,881.16
2020-02 Ford F-550 Mason Dump $ 1,019.00
2020-02 Robts/Lkview/Cntl $ 13,371.98
2020-02 Highland/N Cntrl/Baker $106,193.89
2020-05 Various Fully Funded $ 2,110.02
2021-03 TAP Grant Add’l Funding $ 20,098.98
Grant Receivable Balance to be Canceled: $169,025.81
To be canceled to Capital Fund Balance $ 363.60
To be canceled to Capital Improvement Fund: $ 2,110.02
To cancel debt authorized: $146,289.58
Water Capital Amount Cancelled
Ord. # Project Description Funded Unfunded
2014-18 Impr. to Water-Fencing/Gates $ 14,928.92
2015-08 Port Morris Water Mains $ 12,893.77
2020-03 Various Imps. Brooklyn/Baker $ 79,189.40
To cancel debt authorized: $107,012.09
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 Wachterhauser – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 115-23 RESOLUTION TO AMEND BUDGET TO INCLUDE 2023 CLEAN COMMUNITIES GRANT
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-87 provides that the Director of the Division of Local Government Services may approve the insertion of any special item of revenue in the budget of any county or municipality when such item shall have been made available by law and the amount thereof was not determined at the time of the adoption of the budget, and
WHEREAS, said Director may also approve the insertion of an item of appropriation for an equal amount, and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope has received a total of $9,061.94 from the NJ Solid Waste Administration for the 2023 Clean Communities Grant; and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope now wishes to amend its 2023 budget to include the additional grant funds approved of $9,061.94 as a revenue.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Borough of Stanhope does hereby requests the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of an item of revenue in the budget of the year 2023 in the sum of $9,061.94, which will be available as a revenue from:
Miscellaneous Revenues
Special Items of General Revenue Anticipated with Prior Written
Consent of the Director of Local Government Services – Public
And Private Revenues Offset with Appropriations: 2023 Clean Communities Grants, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a like sum of………………………$9,061.94
be and the same is hereby appropriated under the caption of:
General Appropriations
- Public and Private Programs Offset by Revenues:
2023 Clean Communities Grant, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chief Financial Officer shall submit one copy of the Chapter 159 certification form to the Director of Local Government Services.
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, 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 Wachterhauser – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Mayor Zdichocki stated she spoke with the Administrator and the CFO about purchasing an electronic sign using Clean Communities funding. Other municipalities have used their Clean Communities funding for this purpose. This would be a permanent sign and a location would have to be determined.
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 116-23 RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE CONTINUED ENJOYMENT OF THE STATE’S WATERS FOR DRINKING WATER AND RECREATION WITHOUT HARM TO AGRICULTURE
WHEREAS, Stanhope Borough has approximately 3,526 residents, most of whom receive drinking water from underground aquifers; and
WHEREAS, Stanhope Borough contains many miles of streams and rivers, including the Musconetcong River and other waters which may be used for recreation; drinking water, agriculture, fish and wildlife habitat, and other purposes; and
WHEREAS, significant investments have been made for the acquisition of land for the public use and enjoyment, especially land with surface waters, through use of public funds by Stanhope Borough and governmental and non-governmental agencies; and
WHEREAS, clean water from streams, rivers, lakes and other surface waters contribute to the municipality’s scenic and aesthetic qualities, real estate and home values and economic opportunities from recreation and tourism; and
WHEREAS, the loss of good water quality in streams, rivers and lakes and other surface waters can result in a loss of the municipality’s scenic and aesthetic qualities, real estate and home values and economic opportunities from recreation and tourism; and
WHEREAS, recreational uses have not been incorporated by the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection into assessments for developing anti-degradation safeguards for discharges to surface waters; and
WHEREAS, the waters in streams and rivers are held in the public trust and recreation may occur on those waters, but the land underlying them may be owned privately or publicly, and trespass on private lands is prohibited; and
WHEREAS, agriculture is an important activity, and no additional restriction or undue burden should be placed on agriculture with regard to water withdrawals, which are already regulated by the Water Supply Management Act; and
WHEREAS, municipal residents rely on underground aquifers as their drinking water source; and
WHEREAS, underground aquifers can include porous rock formations, vulnerable to the mixing of contaminated surface and ground waters, such as carbonate bedrock; and
WHEREAS, the presence of pollutants in a surface water or groundwater may inadvertently put drinking water aquifers at risk; and
WHEREAS, the additional costs associated with the treatment of degraded drinking water supplies can be a burden to homeowners, industry, and drinking water suppliers; and
NOW, BE IT RESOLVED, that Stanhope Borough encourages:
- The Department of Environmental Protection to develop methods for identifying waters already utilized for recreational purposes to ensure water quality in these areas are not degraded by new discharges; and
- The Department of Environmental Protection to promote the protection of drinking water aquifers, including waters in carbonate rock areas; and
- The Department of Environmental Protection to establish anti-degradation standards for small public water supply systems and waters in the Highlands Region to protect drinking water quality; and
- The Department of Environmental Protection to preserve and enhance water quality by protecting headwater streams from disturbances; and
- That any actions the Department of Environmental Protection may take in response to this resolution, be done so in consultation with the stakeholders, including municipalities; and
- That the state should provide adequate resources to ensure the public’s access to state lands and waters.
Resolution 117-23 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. 2022-004 representing 2021 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11102, Lot 13 Qual known as 33 Linden Ave, assessed to Jonathan Kumetz & Allison Zotynia, 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: Trystone Capital Assets, LLC
PO Box 1030
Brick, NJ 08723
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2022-004 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,668.72
Premium Paid by Lienholder 2,300.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,668.72
Total From Tax Premium Account 2,300.00
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the 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 Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 118-23 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 May 23, 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.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
ATTORNEY REPORT
Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, stated she has heard back from the Land Use Board attorney regarding the Main Street Redevelopment Project. The Borough Planner has been authorized to do the work and it is anticipated that the hearing will take place at the July 10th Land Use Board meeting. The plan should be before the governing body in early fall for consideration.
CITIZEN’S 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 stated the annual fishing contest, sponsored by the Lake Musconetcong Regional Planning Board, will be held on Sunday June 11th. For Junior Fishermen the time is from 9:00am to 11:00am. Due to the fact that Stanhope Day is not happening this year, a Senior Fishing Contest has been added which will take place from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. The Senior group is for people between the ages of 50 to 100. Anyone over 70 years of age does not need a fishing license.
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 Riccardi and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk