MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
May 28, 2024 7:00 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 10, 2024 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
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Simpson – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wachterhauser – present
Mayor Wronko – present
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.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Wronko read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
April 9, 2024 Work Session and Agenda Meeting & Closed Session
April 23, 2024 Business Meeting & Closed Session
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Simpson and unanimously carried by voice vote, the minutes for April were approved.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi 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 Riccardi
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Department for the month of April reported 5 calls answered, 1 mutual aid call, 4 drills, 1 meeting and 7 special details for a total of 215.25 volunteer hours.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Marshal for the month of April reported there were no incident responses and no complaints. There were five inspections conducted.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Police Department for the month of April reported 79 motor vehicle stops and a total of 258 calls.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Ambulance Squad for the month of March reported 17 calls in Stanhope, 21 calls in Netcong, 1 stand-by and 1 out of town call to Hopatcong for a total of 40 calls. The squad travelled 454 miles, made 15 trips to the hospital and had a total of 153 hours and 56 minutes of volunteer hours.
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilman Thornton
Councilman Romano stated the tax collections for the month of April were $600,356.39 and the year to date total is $3,893,229.27. The first quarter collection percentage is nearly the same as last year’s percentage. The second quarter percentage last year was 71% and this year’s percentage is lagging behind with 18% collected as of May 1st.
Councilman Romano stated the water collections for April totaled $70,091.00 and the year to date total is $197,268.60. The sewer collections for April totaled $88,921.86 and the year to date total is $243,912.47. This year’s figures are behind last year’s which may be due to the timing of the reports.
Community Development – Councilman Wachterhauser/Simpson
Councilman Wachterhauser stated work is being done to make some determinations with regard to the property of 5 Ridge Road.
Mayor Wronko thanked Councilwoman Kuncken for all the work she did to prepare for the Memorial Day Ceremony. Unfortunately, due to the weather conditions, the parade had to be cancelled but a very nice ceremony was held at the American Legion. The event was well attended and Mayor Wronko thanked everyone who attended from the council to show their support, which is greatly appreciated.
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Romano
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
Councilman Thornton stated he would like to have a Municipal Infrastructure Meeting scheduled and he would like NJ Natural Gas to be included to provide an update on the gas line installations. Administrator McNeilly stated he will work on arranging the meeting.
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Wachterhauser
Councilman Riccardi stated the technology migration is still continuing and an update on the status should be available next month.
Boards/Commissions – Simpson/Councilwoman Kuncken
Councilman Simpson stated yesterday’s Memorial Day Ceremony was a very nice event and he thanked Mayor Wronko and Councilwoman Kuncken for their part in organizing the event and for the nice speeches they each made. Councilman Simpson also thanked the American Legion for hosting the event and he thanked Congressman Kean for attending as well.
Councilman Simpson stated the boards and commissions will be meeting on the following dates: Recreation Commission June 5th, Land Use on June 10th, Board of Health June 12th, Environmental Commission June 13th and the Shade Tree Commission will not be meeting this month.
Councilwoman Kuncken and Mayor Wronko thanked Councilman Simpson for his comments.
ENGINEER’S REPORT
Sunset Avenue / Ridge Road / Overhill Road Water Main Replacement – Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, stated construction began on Monday, May 20th. Two new hydrants have been installed and they are working on installing the temporary water bypass system. Some of the residents had a few issues and the contractor is taking care of those items. One of the residents had a punctured tire. Mr. Keller stated he believes the tire damage occurred on Ridge Road where the 90-degree bend is located. The contractor will be working on Saturday to fix something and they are moving along pretty efficiently. The DPW Superintendent sent out the water sample for the hydrant for the Ridge Road circle for bacteriological testing. This is required before the temporary bypass can be filled with water. Once this is completed, coordination will take place in order to access each house to make sure that when they are hooked up to the temporary water system, that a flood is not created. This will also allow the DPW to determine the type of piping coming into the home and the status of the meter. Mr. Keller stated the hydrant that has been installed at the corner of East Drive and Valley Road will provide a second feed for the temporary system and, in addition, it will add to the fire protection system in that part of the Borough which was severely lacking. The hydrant will be there permanently.
Elm Street & Grove Road Local Aid Project – Mr. Keller stated the Elm Street and Grove Road project is out to bid for ADA work. The bid opening is scheduled for June 18th. The plan is to have the resolution to award the contract on the meeting agenda for June 25th. There has been some coordination needed with NJDOT. Mr. Keller stated he has been receiving messages from their processing system.
Local Aid Application – Mr. Keller stated he and the Administrator are working on the Local Aid Application. The project needs to be something which we think would be approved and can receive funding for and something that the Borough needs. New Street is being considered and the last time it was done was before Mr. Keller’s time with the Borough. Main Street has already been approved and is scheduled for next year. Mr. Keller is of the opinion that Sunset Avenue and Ridge Road will never get approved based on experience with requests submitted previously like for Hickory Drive. The budget will also have to be made for next year. New Street would just need to be milled and paved and have the speed humps reinstalled. Mr. Keller stated the project next year will include the replacement of the crosswalks and the apron across the street.
Solar Lights on Sparta Road – Mr. Keller stated he spoke with the DPW Superintendent today and solar lights have been installed on the Borough sign located on Sparta Road. Mr. Keller asked the governing body to look at the lights when travelling in that area and to let him know if they feel the lights need to be adjusted. The arms have been lengthened so the lights are further away from the panel and there is enough existing cord. Councilwoman Kuncken reminded Mr. Keller how bright the lights were on Main Street when they were first installed. The road looked like a runway landing.
6 Summit Street – Mr. Keller stated there were residents who attended the Land Use Board Meeting and a previous Mayor and Council Meeting regarding 6 Summit Street. Mr. Keller stated he was not in attendance at that Land Use Board Meeting and he issued a stop work order pre-emptively. That same week, Mr. Keller visited the site and there were no new trees cut down. All the stumps which were there have been there for quite some time and were aged. Mr. Keller stated when he spoke with Mr. Lynch, what had happened was that Mr. Lynch took all the dead fallen trees and stacked them into one area. There is still more dead fall in the area. Some of the wood he chipped and created a pile which is closer to the retaining wall on the East side of his house. That is all the work that had been done. Mr. Lynch also identified the trees to be removed. Mr. Lynch attended the Land Use Board Meeting on May 13th and reported to the Land Use Board and the residents in attendance that he recognizes there was a miscommunication and he stated there was no other work done. A resolution compliance letter has since been issued on the plans which had been resubmitted and it is fairly lengthy so there is still work to be done. Mr. Lynch has now received his County approval and SCD (Soil Conservation District) approval but not Mr. Keller’s approval. Mr. Keller stated there may be future calls from the residents but it is compliant with the regulations; however, the plans are not ready to be signed and there will be no work done.
Mayor Wronko stated there was a resident who attended the last Mayor and Council Meeting and he also emailed all of the governing body members regarding an issue with a deed restriction. Mr. Keller stated there was a deed restriction on the property for no disturbance below elevation 940. Mr. Keller stated he had a copy of it when it was being reviewed by the Land Use Board and the plans were presented as an exhibit and they were revised to show no disturbance below elevation 940. This will be part of the construction work. A construction fence will have to be placed at elevation 940 and no work can be done beyond that area. The restriction stays in affect. There are a number of easement documents for access for utilities that have to be done. Mr. Keller has reviewed them but he does not know where the Land Use Board Attorney stands with those. Once approved they will need to be recorded. Councilwoman Kuncken asked what type of response will be given to the Steven’s family because they keep talking about this deed restriction. Mr. Keller stated at the last meeting he stated the plans were being reviewed and the review letter was going to be submitted to the Board. The letter is available to the public through the OPRA request process and the letter details information about all the documents. Councilman Thornton asked why the resident would have to OPRA the letter as opposed to the Borough providing them with the letter stating that is answers their concerns and to please read it. Attorney Ursula Leo stated, from a municipal perspective, it is standard procedure for the Clerk’s office to document this through the OPRA procedure when requesting documents. Mr. Keller stated when he is working in towns where he knows the Engineer and asks for documents, he too, is told it has to be done through the OPRA process. Administrator McNeilly stated at the last Mayor and Council Meeting the resident was advised to attend the proper board with their concerns and they would be able to obtain information in real time. Mr. Keller stated the residents did attend the May 13th Land Use Board Meeting and the process was explained and Mr. Lynch was also in attendance. They had the opportunity to speak resident to resident. Councilman Riccardi asked if there is anything in the deed restriction that would prevent the subdivision from occurring. Mr. Keller confirmed the deed restriction does not prevent the subdivision. The applicant has an obligation, even though they are not a major development under the stormwater rules, to address stormwater which has been reviewed with a great amount of detail. Administrator McNeilly stated the Soil Conservation District (SCD) will be inspecting the area as well. Mr. Keller stated and the SCD has certified the plan. Councilman Thornton stated the problem seems to be that the residents seem to believe that nothing can be done because the deed restriction exists as opposed to the fact that nothing can be done below a certain elevation. Mr. Keller stated the application was filed without variances and under the Municipal Land Use Law, which was also discussed on May 13th, is a State law that the Borough must abide by, does not require notice for conforming minor subdivisions, and therefore there was no public notice. Councilman Riccardi asked if the stormwater management plan for the property has been submitted. Mr. Keller confirmed it has been submitted and reviewed and there is still more work to be done. It has not been approved as yet. Councilman Thornton stated the residents have said they are getting more water runoff onto their property and Councilman Thornton asked Mr. Keller for his thoughts on this. Mr. Keller stated there has been no disturbance as defined under the law. There has been no disturbance period on the site to be developed other than stacking the dead trees. No further work will be done until a silt fence is installed. Administrator McNeilly asked Mr. Keller to explain the difference between taking trees down and disturbance. Mr. Keller stated cutting down a tree and leaving a stump is not disturbance because the ground surface has not been disturbed. Administrator McNeilly stated in order for all the property owners involved to have their rights protected it is necessary for the residents to attend the proper meeting to voice their concerns and in this case that is the Land Use Board. Mr. Keller stated trees which are dead and trees under four inches do not count in the removal process. Administrator McNeilly stated the best advice that can be given to residents is to direct them to the proper board to have their concerns addressed. Mr. Keller stated all the roof leaders on the new plan are run into the drywells which are being constructed and they will have an overflow. Soil testing will be done in the future. The seepage pits will hold water and let it out slowly. Mr. Keller stated he has walked the property in the proposed area of disturbance and there are no channels or rivulets that point to any type of erosion issues.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
FY2025 Local Aid Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated the local aid grant request for FY2025 being considered is for New Street. New Street was last paved in the mid 1990’s. If awarded, paving would not take place until after the gas line project is complete which would be 2026 at the earliest.
2024 Congressional Directed Spending Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated he received the kick off email for the water tower grant award. The process of setting up accounts and procedures with the Department of Housing and Urban Development will begin soon. Their process seems a bit more straightforward that the last grant. As a reminder, in the upcoming 2025 budget cycle, the Borough will need to bond the 20% local funding which totals $660,000.
2025 Congressional Directed Spending Grant – Administrator McNeilly stated he received word from Senator Booker’s Office that the Stanhope Municipal Complex Project was selected to be moved forward for funding consideration. Although this is good news, there are still several more hurdles to cross. Administrator McNeilly stated this is a $2.5million project with a 20% match. When Tom Kean’s office opened up the opportunity to apply for the House side, our project was submitted there as well. Administrator McNeilly stated he has spent a great deal of time on the USDA webinars and this program is ideal for towns with under $5,000 people.
NJ Natural Gas – Administrator McNeilly stated, according to NJ Natural Gas, they have installed one third (1/3) or 11,000 feet of gas mains in zone 1 and 2 in just 9 weeks. The permits for house connections are increasing. The crews will be installing house connections on Grove Road and Elm Street on Saturday’s to minimize travel disruptions to Stanhope School. Currently, discussions are going to be taking place to determine how to streamline the permit process.
Shade Tree Planting – Administrator McNeilly stated a request has been received from the Shade Tree Commission asking for permission to have the Girl Scouts plant a tree at the Kelly Place parking lot for Arbor Day. The governing body agreed to allow the Girl Scouts to plant a tree. Administrator McNeilly stated he will inform the Shade Tree Commission of the approval.
Leo Avenue – Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW has installed the drains on Leo Avenue. The trench paving will take place this week and next week, weather permitting. After the gas lines are installed, that section will be repaved. Councilman Riccardi asked if the resident that was having the water runoff issue has been informed. Administrator McNeilly stated the DPW checks on that area after every storm due to the fact if a rut forms the resident cannot access their driveway.
Lloyd Avenue and Lawrence Avenue – Administrator McNeilly stated the resident at the corner of Lloyd Avenue and Lawrence Avenue on the lake side was concerned because the berm is gone. The DPW will replace the berm tomorrow.
Canfield Street – Councilman Riccardi stated there is an area on Canfield Street that is washed out quite a bit. Administrator McNeilly stated he will look into it.
COAH Funds – Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough Planner, Bill Hamilton, will be attending the June 25th meeting to discuss options for the Borough’s COAH plan. A plan should be put into place to utilize the funds before the State decides to take them away.
Leaf Trailer 2024 – Administrator McNeilly stated he is happy to report that the new leaf trailer was received this past Thursday and it is ready for use when the season arrives.
20 Main Street (Tannery Building) – Administrator McNeilly stated there is an in-person court hearing scheduled for June 17th at the Andover Joint Municipal Court.
Kelly Place – Councilman Wachterhauser stated he noticed white lines and arrows marked on the road and he asked if these lines were indicating areas to be paved. Administrator McNeilly stated no paving is going to take place until the gas lines are completed and he stated the lines may be mark outs for the gas lines. Mr. Keller stated the gas company has agreed to pave half of the road. Administrator McNeilly stated the gas company is working with the Borough on the paving issues.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Communication – Mayor Wronko stated, based on Ms. Anderson’s request regarding acknowledgement of correspondence, he asked Councilman Riccardi to research if there are any types of programs available for the receipting of correspondence. Councilman Riccardi stated he is still in the process of researching what might be available.
Gas Lines – Councilman Thornton asked when gas line work will be done on the weekends. Administrator McNeilly stated when they get to the area near the school the work has to be done on the weekends so the road is not closed. Councilman Thornton stated school will be ending in two weeks. Mr. Keller stated the gas company has also been told that after Elm Street and Grove Road are paved, there will no longer be the option for house connections to be made. Councilman Thornton asked if the residents are being informed of this. Administrator McNeilly stated all of the gas company’s advertisements and door knocker signs acknowledge this fact. The DPW will also be hand delivering this information. Councilman Thornton stated the information should also be placed on the website.
ORDINANCES
Ordinances for Public Hearing and Final Adoption
Ordinance 2024-06 BOND ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $343,500, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $132,170 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH, FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS OR PURPOSES AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY
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 several improvements described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance are hereby respectively authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey. For the said several improvements or purposes stated in said Section 3, there are hereby appropriated the respective sums of money therein stated as the appropriations made for said improvements or purposes, said sums, except as described in said Section 3, being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefor and amounting in the aggregate to $343,500 including the aggregate sum of $9,500 as the several down payments for said improvements or purposes required by law and more particularly described in said Section 3 and now available therefor by virtue of provision in a previously adopted budget or budgets of the Borough for down payment or for capital improvement purposes and including also in the case of the improvement or purpose described in paragraph (a) of said Section 3, the sum of $201,830 received or expected to be received by the Borough from the New Jersey Department of Transportation as a grant-in-aid of financing said improvements.
Section 2. For the financing of said improvements or purposes, including for the purpose of applicable United States Treasury regulations, the reimbursement of expenditures heretofore or hereafter made therefor, and to meet the part of said $343,500 appropriations not provided for by application hereunder of said down payments and grant, negotiable bonds of the Borough are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of $132,170 pursuant to the Local Bond Law of New Jersey. In anticipation of the issuance of said bonds and to temporarily finance said improvements or purposes, negotiable notes of the Borough in a principal amount not exceeding $132,170 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
Section 3. The improvements hereby authorized and the several purposes for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued, the appropriation made for and estimated cost of each such purpose, and the estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for each such purpose, are respectively as follows:
| IMPROVEMENT OR PURPOSE | APPROPRIATION AND ESTIMATED COST |
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF BONDS AND NOTES |
| (a) Improvement of Elm Street and Grove Road in and by the Borough by the construction or reconstruction therein of roadway pavements at least equal in useful life or durability to a roadway pavement of Class B construction (as such term is used or referred to in Section 40A:2-22 of said Local Bond Law) together with all structures, appurtenances, milling, curb and sidewalk reconstruction, drainage improvements, 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, the $300,000 hereby appropriated therefor being inclusive of the sum of $201,830 received or expected to be received by the Borough from the New Jersey Department of Transportation as a grant-in-aid of financing said improvements | $300,000 | $93,170 |
| (b) Acquisition by purchase of new and additional vehicular equipment, including one (1) mason dump truck for use by the Department of Public Works of the Borough, together with all equipment, appurtenances and accessories necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and hereby approved, the $43,500 hereby appropriated therefor being exclusive of the sum of $87,000 appropriated therefor on the date hereof by a water utility bond ordinance and a sewer utility ordinance of the Borough |
43,500 |
39,000 |
| Totals | $343,500 | $132,170 |
Except as otherwise stated in paragraph (a) above with respect to the said $201,830 grant-in-aid of financing the purpose described in said paragraph, the excess of the appropriation made for the improvement or purpose aforesaid over the estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued therefor, as above stated, is the amount of the said down payment for said purpose.
Section 4. The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:
(a) The said purposes described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance are not current expenses and each 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 average period of usefulness of said purposes within the limitations of said Local Bond Law and taking into consideration the respective amounts of the said obligations authorized for the several purposes, according to the reasonable life thereof computed from the date of the said bonds authorized by this bond ordinance, is ten (10) 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 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 $132,170, and the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
(d) Amounts not exceeding $35,000 in the aggregate for interest on said obligations, costs of issuing said obligations, engineering costs 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 costs of said improvements and are included in the foregoing estimate thereof.
Section 5. The funds from time to time received by the Borough on account of the grant referred to in Section 1 of this bond ordinance shall be used for financing the improvement or purpose described in Section 3(a) of this bond ordinance by application thereof either to direct payment of the costs of said improvement or purpose, or to payment or reduction of the authorization of the obligations of the Borough authorized by this bond ordinance. Any such funds so received may, and all such funds so received which are not required for direct payment of such costs shall, be held and applied by the Borough as funds applicable only to the payment of obligations of the Borough authorized by this bond ordinance.
Section 6. All bond anticipation notes issued hereunder shall mature at such times as may be determined by 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 7. 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 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 8. 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 9. 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 Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was not adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Administrator McNeilly stated the first four ordinances on the agenda this evening were tabled from the last Mayor and Council Meeting. These four ordinances need to be voted down due to the fact that the next two ordinances replace these ordinances. Attorney Leo stated ordinances 2024-06 through 2024-09 will be replaced with 2024-10 and 2024-11.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – no
Councilman Simpson – no
Councilman Riccardi – no
Councilman Thornton – no
Councilman Romano – no
Councilman Wachterhauser – no
Ordinance 2024-07 BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF NEW AND ADDITIONAL VEHICULAR EQUIPMENT FOR USE BY THE WATER UTILITY OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $43,500 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $38,500 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR FINANCING SUCH 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 is hereby authorized as a general improvement to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey. For the said improvement or purpose stated in said Section 3, there is hereby appropriated the sum of $43,500, said sum being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefor and including the sum of $5,000 down payment for said improvement or required by law now available as the purpose thereof by virtue of provision in a previously adopted budgets of the Borough for down payment or for capital improvement purposes, and exclusive of the sum of $87,000 appropriated therefor on the date hereof by virtue of a sewer utility bond ordinance and a general capital bond ordinance of the Borough.
Section 2. For the financing of said improvement or purpose, including for the purpose of applicable United States Treasury regulations, the reimbursement of expenditures heretofore or hereafter made therefor, and to meet said $43,500 appropriation not provided for by application hereunder of said down payment, negotiable bonds of the Borough are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of $38,500 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 $38,500 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
Section 3. (a) The improvement hereby authorized and purpose for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued is the acquisition by purchase of new and additional vehicular equipment for use by the water utility of the Borough, including one (1) mason dump truck, together with all equipment, appurtenances and accessories necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and hereby approved.
(b) The estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for said purpose pursuant to this bond ordinance is $38,500.
(c) The estimated cost of said purpose is $130,500, the excess thereof over the appropriation hereby made therefor being the amount of $87,000 appropriated on the date hereof by virtue of a sewer utility bond ordinance and a general capital bond ordinance of the Borough.
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 benefitted 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 ten (10) 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 $38,500, 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 $4,500 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 cost of said improvement and is included in the foregoing estimate 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 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, 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 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 Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Simpson and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was not adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – no
Councilman Simpson – no
Councilman Riccardi – no
Councilman Thornton – no
Councilman Romano – no
Councilman Wachterhauser – no
Ordinance 2024-08 BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF NEW AND ADDITIONAL VEHICULAR EQUIPMENT FOR USE BY THE SEWER UTILITY OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $43,500 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $32,500 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR FINANCING SUCH 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 is hereby authorized as a general improvement to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey. For the said improvement or purpose stated in said Section 3, there is hereby appropriated the sum of $43,500, said sum being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefor and including the sum of $11,000 down payment for said improvement or required by law now available as the purpose thereof by virtue of provision in a previously adopted budgets of the Borough for down payment or for capital improvement purposes, and exclusive of the sum of $87,000 appropriated therefor on the date hereof by virtue of a water utility bond ordinance and a general capital bond ordinance of the Borough.
Section 2. For the financing of said improvement or purpose, including for the purpose of applicable United States Treasury regulations, the reimbursement of expenditures heretofore or hereafter made therefor, and to meet said $43,500 appropriation not provided for by application hereunder of said down payment, negotiable bonds of the Borough are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of $32,500 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 $32,500 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
Section 3. (a) The improvement hereby authorized and purpose for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued is the acquisition by purchase of new and additional vehicular equipment for use by the sewer utility of the Borough, including one (1) mason dump truck, together with all equipment, appurtenances and accessories necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and hereby approved.
(b) The estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for said purpose pursuant to this bond ordinance is $32,500.
(c) The estimated cost of said purpose is $130,500, the excess thereof over the appropriation hereby made therefor being the amount of $87,000 appropriated on the date hereof by virtue of a water utility bond ordinance and a general capital bond ordinance of the Borough.
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 benefitted 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 ten (10) 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 $32,500, 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 $4,500 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 cost of said improvement and is included in the foregoing estimate 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 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, 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 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 sanitary sewerage 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 Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Wachterhauser and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was not adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – no
Councilman Simpson – no
Councilman Riccardi – no
Councilman Thornton – no
Councilman Romano – no
Councilman Wachterhauser – no
Ordinance 2024-09 ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF NEW AND ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT BY THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AND APPROPRIATING $133,750 THEREFOR FROM VARIOUS FUNDS OF THE BOROUGH
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 or purpose described in Section 2 of this ordinance is hereby authorized a general improvement to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey, and there is hereby appropriated therefor the sum of $133,750, to the extent of $46,965.76, from moneys available in the Capital Improvement Fund of the Borough, to the extent of $27,750, from moneys available in the Capital Fund Balance of the Borough, and, to the extent of $59,034.24, from the proceeds of a grant received from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
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 acquisition of new and additional equipment, including video equipment and portables for use by the Police Department of the Borough, and air bottles and a hose line for use by the Fire Department of the Borough together with all equipment, accessories, apparatus and appurtenances necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the 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. This ordinance shall take effect after publication after final passage as provided by law.
On motion by Councilman Simpson, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was not adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – no
Councilman Simpson – no
Councilman Riccardi – no
Councilman Thornton – no
Councilman Romano – no
Councilman Wachterhauser – no
Ordinance 2024-10 ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AND APPROPRIATING $564,250 THEREFOR FROM VARIOUS FUNDS OF THE BOROUGH
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The improvements described in Section 2 of this ordinance are hereby authorized general improvements to be made or acquired by The Borough of Stanhope, New Jersey, and there is hereby appropriated therefor the sum of $564,250, to the extent of $17,282.67, from moneys available in the Capital Improvement Fund of the Borough, to the extent of $201,830, from the proceeds of a grant received from the New Jersey Department of Transportation, and, to the extent of $345,137.33, from the proceeds of a grant received from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
Section 2. The improvements hereby authorized and the several purposes for the financing of which the appropriation is made as provided in Section 1 of this ordinance are as follow: the engineering, acquisition of new and additional equipment, including video equipment and portables for use by the Police Department of the Borough, air bottles and a hose line for use by the Fire Department of the Borough, and one (1) mason dump truck for use by the Department of Public Works of the Borough; and the improvement of Elm Street and Grove Road in and by the Borough by the upgrade thereof, together with all paving, milling, equipment, accessories, apparatus, appurtenances, 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 $286,103.89 balance remaining under ordinance of the Borough adopted on May 9, 2023 (#2023-09) and entitled: “Ordinance providing for the improvement of various roads in and by the Borough of Stanhope, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, appropriating $287,000 therefor constituting proceeds of a grant from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021” is hereby cancelled. Any additional 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 Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
On motion by Councilman Romano, 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 2024-11 BOND ORDINANCE MAKING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF $86,000 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 $76,000 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 ordinances (the “Prior Ordinances”) of the Borough adopted on May 10, 2022 and May 9, 2023 and respectively, 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” and “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”. The cost of the improvement described in Section 3(a) of this bond ordinance, estimated in May, 2023, at $847,540 is now estimated at $933,540. By the Prior Ordinances there has been appropriated to payment of the cost of said improvement the sum of $847,540. It is now necessary for the Borough to raise the additional sum of $86,000 to meet the remainder of said $933,540 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 $847,540 heretofore appropriated therefor by the Prior Ordinances, there is hereby appropriated the further sum of $86,000 including the sum of $10,000 as a down payment for said improvement or purpose required by law and now available therefor. Said additional appropriation of $86,000 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 $76,000 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 $76,000 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 Ordinances 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 $238,540 inclusive of the $162,540 principal amount of bonds or notes of the Borough heretofore authorized for said improvement or purpose pursuant to the Prior Ordinances.
(c) The estimated cost of said purpose is $933,540 inclusive of the sum of $847,540 heretofore appropriated for said improvement by the Prior Ordinances.
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 $86,000, 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 $10,000 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 $86,000 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 Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing ordinance was adopted.
Mayor Wronko opened the meeting to the public for questions or comments on this ordinance only. Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – yes
On motion by Councilman Romano, 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.
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Wronko offered the following resolutions which were read by title.
Resolution 110-24 RESOLUTION TO AMEND BUDGET TO INCLUDE SAFE & SECURE COMMUNITIES PROGRAM
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
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Borough of Stanhope in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, 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 2024 in the sum of $22,575.00, which will be available as a revenue from Safe & Secure Communities Program in the amount of $22,575.00.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a like sum of $22,575.00 is hereby appropriated under the caption of:
General Appropriations
- Public and Private Programs Offset by Revenues:
Safe & Secure Communities Program, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the above is the result of funds from the Safe & Secure Communities Program in the amount of $22,575.00.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chief Financial Officer submit one copy of the Chapter 159 certification form to the Director of Local Government Services.
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Simpson 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
Resolution 111-24 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE GRANTING RELEASE OF PERFORMANCE SURETY BOND NUMBER 76172860 IN THE AMOUNT OF NINETEEN THOUSAND, FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY-NINE DOLLARS AND NINETY-EIGHT CENTS ($19,459.98)
WHEREAS, Performance Surety Bond No. 76172860 was issued related to Jorawar Fuel, LLC’s proposed site improvement costs at the premises located at 246 US Highway 206 and US Highway 206, known as Block 11703, Lot 1 and Block 11703.01, Lot 1 (the “Premises”); and
WHEREAS, Jorawar Fuel, LLC, c/o Mangit Bajwa, has requested the release of the Performance Surety Bond being held by the Borough of Stanhope for site improvement costs at the Premises; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer recommends the release of the Performance Surety Bond, as the project was completed over two (2) years ago.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey agree to release Performance Surety Bond No. 76172860, in the amount of nineteen thousand, four hundred fifty-nine dollars and ninety-eight cents ($19549.98).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Clerk is authorized and directed to forward a certified copy of this resolution to the Stanhope Borough Land Use Board and to Jorawar Fuel, LLC, c/o Mangit Bajwa, 8 Peach Tree Lane, Chester, New Jersey 07930.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Simpson – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Thornton– yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wachterhauser – 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 112-24 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND OF ESCROW FOR BLOCK 11205 LOT 1 & 4.01
WHEREAS, Juntos Holdings LLC was required to post an escrow deposit for variance for Block 11205, Lot 1 & 4.01, 8 Plane St & 1-3 Kelly Place; and
WHEREAS, the land use board 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 $2,169.95.
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:
Juntos Holdings LLC $2,169.95
125 Main St
Netcong, NJ 07874
Resolution 113-24 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. 2023-013 representing 2022 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11106, Lot 2 known as 11 State Route 183, assessed to Stanhope Shiva Realty, LLC, 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: NJSL 301, LLC
650 E. Palisades Ave
#2258
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2023-013 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 19,206.47
Premium Paid by Lienholder 300.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 19,206.47
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 Borough Treasurer be authorized to prepare the necessary check as stated above and to forward same to the lien holder.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer/Tax Collector.
Resolution 114-24 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. 2023-016 representing 2022 property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11501, Lot 2 Qual C0081 known as 581 Dell Pl, assessed to Nascimento, Jacquelyn M, and;
WHEREAS, the Tax Collector certifies that reimbursement is now required to be made to the following lien holder for the required redemption amounts as shown below:
To Lienholder: Pro Cap 8
PO Box 774
Fort Washington, PA 19034
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2023-016 and
Interest to Date of Meeting $ 1,043.10
Premium Paid by Lienholder 400.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 1,043.10
Total From Tax Premium Account 400.00
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 Councilman Riccardi, 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
Mayor’s Acceptance of Resignation
Resolution 115-24 MAYOR’S ACCEPTANCE OF THE RESIGNATION OF CARMEN PICO FROM THE STANHOPE Board of Health WITH COUNCIL CONCURRENCE
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Stanhope that they do hereby concur with the Mayor’s acceptance of Carmen Pico’s resignation as an appointed member on the Board of Health, effective immediately.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted. Both Councilman Romano and Councilwoman Kuncken motioned with their regrets that Mr. Pico is resigning.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 116-24 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 28, 2024 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 Simpson 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
ATTORNEY REPORT
Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, stated Sussex County has been chosen to adopt a Municipal Flood Plain Ordinance which is ridiculously complicated. It is requiring a lot of changes. Attorney Leo stated a draft will be prepared for next month. Administrator McNeilly stated the administrator for the flood plain is the Construction Official. Mr. Keller stated the DEP adopted new stormwater rules last July and Mr. Keller, as the Borough’s Stormwater Coordinator and Reviewer, is required to see that the stormwater ordinance is updated to comply with the latest changes. Fortunately, it has not affected anything due to the fact it mainly affects major development or if you are in the flood plain.
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.
Carmen Pico stated when everything is finished on New Street the residents would like an additional speed bump installed. When Mount Olive completes their project the traffic on New Street is going to increase. The distance between Main Street and the first speed bump is too long of a distance. People are travelling too fast. Mayor Wronko asked Mr. Keller if this issue can be reviewed. Mr. Keller confirmed he will look into it. Mr. Pico asked Administrator McNeilly, now that tractor trailers are no longer travelling down the road, could the sign be changed to prohibit parking between the hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm in order to be able to park on the road in the evenings and weekends when people are visiting. The signs currently say no parking anytime. Administrator McNeilly asked Mr. Keller to add this issue to his list for review. Mr. Pico invited everyone to visit the Valley Road School to see where the Boy Scouts planted flowers and plants to beautify the school parking lot. The Boy Scouts did a wonderful job.
Linden Avenue School Parking – Councilman Thornton stated a few years ago the parking regulations were changed when the school was not being used. Now that it is in use again, cars are parking on both sides of the street for drop off and pick up and children are running across the road and the residents are concerned. Administrator McNeilly stated there had been a restriction for bus parking only on the school side of the road which was lifted due to the fact the school had been empty for many years at that time. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she has travelled through that area at 3:00pm and it is very busy but not like a regular school pick up because all the children do not come and go at the same time. Administrator McNeilly stated parking is only permitted on one side of the road. Councilwoman Kuncken suggested that the daycare administration contact the parents and let them know that children should not be unattended when outside. Administrator McNeilly stated he will look into the situation.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Wronko closed the public portion of the meeting.
CLOSED SESSION
WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231 P.L. 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances; and
WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exists;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:
- The general nature of the subject matter(s) to be discussed is as follows:
1 – Contract
- It is anticipated at this time that the above stated subject matter(s) will be made public at the conclusion of each individual specified subject matter.
- This resolution shall take effect immediately.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.
The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 8:10 P.M.
RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 8:45 P.M. with all present.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk