MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
September 22, 2020
7:00 P.M.
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CALL TO ORDER
SALUTE TO COLORS
Mayor Zdichocki invited all those present to stand in a salute to the colors.
MAYOR’S STATEMENT AS TO COMPLIANCE WITH P.L. 1975
Adequate Notice of this Meeting has been provided according to the Open Public Meetings Act, Assembly Bill 1030. Notice of this Meeting was included in the Annual Meeting Notice sent to the New Jersey Herald and the Daily Record on January 8, 2020 and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building.
Furthermore, notice of the change in the meeting location was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on July 22, 2020 and was placed on the official website of the Borough of Stanhope.
In the event the Mayor and Council have not addressed all items on this Agenda by 10:00 PM and they are of the opinion that they cannot complete the Agenda in a reasonable time period, the Mayor and Council may exercise their option to continue this meeting at an agreed to date, time and place. Please turn off all cell phones for the duration of this meeting.
ROLL CALL
Council Members:
Councilman Cipollini – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Wronko – present
Mayor Zdichocki – present
CITIZENS TO BE HEARD
Mayor Zdichocki opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Mayor Zdichocki read aloud the list of minutes being presented for approval:
August 11, 2020 Work Session/Agenda Meeting
August 25, 2020 Business Meeting
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Romano and carried by voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved.
CORRESPONDENCE (List Attached)
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, 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/CouncilmanThornton
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Fire Department report indicates there were 10 calls for the month of August with a total number of man hours of 61.5. There were 5 mutual aid calls for a total number of man hours of 21.75. There were 4 drills, 1 meeting, 7 special details and 2 funerals for a total number of man hours of 216.5.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Sussex County Fire Inspector has resumed on site inspections. The Fire Inspector’s report indicates 12 inspections were performed. Some of the inspections failed for minor reasons and the violations have been corrected and passed inspection.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Police Department for the month of August had 67 motor vehicle stops and the overall total number of calls for the month was 211.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated the Ambulance Squad report for the month of June indicates 18 calls in Stanhope and 40 calls in Netcong for a total of 58 calls. There was 1 out of town call to Hopatcong. There was a total of 41 patients and of those patients, 11 refused care and 2 were deceased. The squad made 28 trips to the hospital for a total of 848 miles and 157 hours and 21 minutes of hours volunteered. The ambulance squad, year to date, have responded to 496 calls.
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilwoman Kuncken
Councilman Romano stated the tax collections for the month of August totaled $2,453,982.14. The collections year to date total $9,199,457.75. The collection rate for the third quarter taxes is at 95% which is very good news.
Councilman Romano stated the water collections for the month of August totaled $11,587.26. The year to date total is $425,019.30. The sewer collections for the month of August totaled $16,181.03. The year to date total is $508,413.46.
Community Development – Councilman Wronko/Councilman Riccardi
(Zoning, Construction, Code Enforcement, Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Revitalization)
Councilman Wronko stated the Food Pantry is available every Monday morning and every Wednesday afternoon at the Linden Avenue School. The Town Wide Garage Sale is scheduled for Saturday, October 10th. Administrator McNeilly stated the Halloween Parade for this year has been cancelled.
Councilman Wronko stated leaf pickup will begin in the month of October. Residents should check the Borough calendar to determine their zone and pickup date.
Councilman Wronko stated the Zoning and Code Enforcement report for the months of July and August state there were 23 applications and 9 violations/complaints.
Councilwoman Kuncken asked if there is any information with regard to children going trick or treating. Administrator McNeilly stated, just as in prior years when we have experienced weather calamities relative to Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Sandy, Halloween is not an official government sanctioned event. The governing body has previously not taken a position on the matter. The event has either happened or not happened. This is probably a good path to follow here. There is some chatter that the Governor’s Office may provide some position. Mayor Zdichocki stated the news media is reporting guidelines for safe trick or treating such as not having bowls of candy that the children all have to reach into. Administrator McNeilly stated if the governing body would like, a best practices flyer could be provided with safety trick or treating information. Councilman Thornton stated the governing body can make recommendations but ultimately the decisions are up to the parents. Mayor Zdichocki stated the Borough does not have the authority to dictate regulations for Halloween Trick or Treating. Administrator McNeilly stated he will create a flyer.
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Wronko
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
Councilman Thornton stated he had no report.
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Cipollini
Councilman Riccardi stated a technology meeting was held last week. The document scanning program has been put on hold during the pandemic. The project is going well. The next section of documents to be scanned will be for the year 2016. This will take a few to complete.
Councilman Riccardi also reported they will assign 2 iPads. One will be for the Clerk and one to the Zoning Official. There is a need for the Zoning Official to have a camera and microphone to participate in virtual court hearings. The iPad will be set up to accommodate this requirement.
Councilman Riccardi stated he received a usage report for the Municipay Program. There were a total of 71 tax bills paid totaling $153,775.23. There were 152 utility bills paid through Municipay for a total of $57,470.44. Councilman Riccardi stated the office has received some calls from residents who were having trouble accessing the system. Some of the issues encountered were where to find the payment program on the website and how to correctly enter account numbers. The office staff has been able to resolve the issues. When the office reopens to the public, a card reader has been installed for residents to make credit card payments.
Councilman Riccardi stated a microphone system will be purchased for use during the Mayor and Council meetings. Administrator McNeilly has found a system which is being researched further.
Boards/Commissions – Councilman Cipollini/Councilman Romano
Administrator McNeilly stated he received an email late this afternoon from the Recreation Commission stating the Halloween Parade has been cancelled. The Recreation Commission is still considering whether or not to hold the tree lighting in December. The tree lighting would not include the party afterward at the church.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
2020 Best Practices Checklist – Administrator McNeilly stated the 2020 Best Practices Checklist was received on September 22nd and it is due to the State by November 3rd. The CFO will prepare the checklist and have it ready for governing body review and comment at the October 27th meeting.
Street Light Request – Administrator McNeilly stated a request was received from a resident on Maryann Terrace for the installation of a street light. The current policy has been for a light to be installed at the end of the street and at the intersections. The granting of the request or the denial is a policy decision. Administrator McNeilly stated, as a reference, Young Drive has 4 lights, James Street has 4 lights, Dell Road has 6 lights and Maryann Terrace currently has 3 lights. Administrator McNeilly stated adding another light to Maryann Terrace would leave just one pole without a light. Councilman Thornton asked when the request was received. Administrator McNeilly stated the request came as an email through the Construction Department which was then forwarded to him. The request was not distributed to the governing body. There is a light in the cul-de-sac, the next pole does have a light, the next two do not have lights and the last pole has a light. Administrator McNeilly stated he is of the opinion the lighting on Maryann Terrace is consistent with the rest of the lighting in the Borough. The poles are approximately 100 feet apart. This is a dead-end street and there is no traffic or connecting streets. Maryann Terrace already has one more street light than the philosophy dictates. Young Drive and James Street have 4 lights and Dell Road has six and these roads are much longer than Maryann Terrace. There are no sidewalks on Maryann Terrace. Neighborhoods are dark. Stanhope is a suburban/rural community and lighting generally comes from the homes or car headlights. The only areas which have extra lighting are heavily travelled roads and the area near the school with the sidewalks. Administrator McNeilly stated he wanted to discuss the issue with the governing body before responding back to the resident. The governing body determined there is adequate lighting provided in the neighborhood and an additional street light is not necessary.
Sussex County Hazard Mitigation Plan Renewal – Administrator McNeilly stated that Sussex County is reviewing and renewing the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The review and renewal process is done every four years. Administrator McNeilly stated he serves as the primary point of contact and Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, is the alternate contact. Wayne Anthony, Borough OEM, also has a support role in the process. The Mayor and Council will be asked for a resolution agreeing to the report submission. The resolution will be on the agenda in December or January. The current plan is posted on the County’s website. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough’s plan will remain very similar to the past plan. The sewer pump stations and wells may be added.
DPW – Administrator McNeilly stated the substantial amount of brush on Lloyd Avenue has been cleared. The new “No Parking” sign for New Street is on order.
Storm Water Training – Administrator McNeilly stated he has contacted Kyle Richter from the Musconetcong Watershed Association. Mr. Richter has indicated they are currently not providing in person presentations. Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, is in contact with NJDEP to discuss options for ensuring the Borough’s compliance with the stormwater management program. If no other options are available, a Zoom meeting may have to be scheduled.
Budget 2020 – Administrator McNeilly stated six of the sixteen budget requests have been received. The CFO is following up to complete the remainder in order for the budget books to be prepared. This will cause a slight delay in preparing the budget books and the schedule has been adjusted accordingly. The schedule is as follows: September 30th – All Operating & Capital Requests Due to CFO; October 5th – Prepare Budget Books; October 9th – Budget Books to Mayor and Council; November 10th and 24th – Budget Discussion; December 15th – Auditor and Tax Assessor Presentation.
Tax Sale – Administrator McNeilly stated the Tax Sale is scheduled for October 21st. To date, the outstanding amount due for both tax and water and sewer is approximately $72,000. Last year at this time, the outstanding amount was approximately $100,000. An account is being created with Lakeland Bank to allow for electronic transfers of funds.
Signage on Linden Avenue Near Route 183 Intersection – Councilman Thornton stated, after the conversation at the last meeting regarding the “No Turn On Red” signage on Linden Avenue, he drove back to that location. There is a sign there but it is located on a lamp post which is quite a distance back from the intersection. Councilman Thornton stated he is of the opinion additional signage is needed. Administrator McNeilly stated Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, is going to contact the NJDOT. The NJDOT is responsible for all signage at that intersection. Councilman Thornton is concerned the NJDOT will state signage is already in place but he would like them to be reminded there was a fatal accident there and precautions should be taken to prevent any others. The field of vision is very poor.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Construction Department (Review of Extra 2 Hours) – Administrator McNeilly stated the discussion regarding the extra two hours of time for the Construction Department is reviewed every six months. Due to circumstances over the past few months the hours were not utilized but going forward there will be a need for the extra hours. The governing body had no objections. The extra two hours can be utilized as needed.
Sound System – Administrator McNeilly stated at the Technology Committee Meeting a discussion was held regarding a microphone/sound system for use at the Mayor and Council meetings. Councilman Riccardi stated the microphones would be wireless. Administrator McNeilly stated the microphones could be connected into the sound system located at the school or the microphones can be connected to the existing portable sound system the Borough uses at the Tree Lighting and other events. The system under consideration contains 12 microphones. The system with 8 microphones would provide one mic for every governing body member and one for the table. This system would not provide a mic for the Administrator or the Attorney. The system containing 12 microphones would be a better choice so 10 microphones could be utilized for Mayor and Council meetings and 12 will be needed for use at the Land Use Board Meetings. Mayor Zdichocki stated the system will also be useful for any meetings held at the American Legion. The cost for the new system is $850.09. Administrator McNeilly has spoken with the CFO to confirm funds are available for the purchase. Due to the fact this item is being purchased due to issues related to COVID, the expense may be reimbursable. The 8-channel system is $528.00. Councilman Romano stated the system appears to have a good range. In order to speak through the microphones a button must be held down. This will help to limit people speaking at the same time and will assist with transcribing the minutes. Mayor Zdichocki stated she is of the opinion this is a necessity and the system should be ordered. The funds are available and there is a chance the cost could be reimbursed. Councilman Cipollini asked if the output will interface with the Clerk’s recording system. Councilman Riccardi stated the output is ¼ inch but it could be converted to 1/8 inch.
Mayor Zdichocki asked the governing body if they are in favor of purchasing the 12-microphone system. The results of the straw poll vote are as follows: Councilman Romano – yes; Councilman Riccardi – yes; Councilwoman Kuncken – yes; Councilman Wronko – yes; Councilman Cipollini – yes; Councilman Thornton – yes. Approval was granted to purchase the new system.
Regional Transportation Initiative – Councilman Cipollini stated he received a blind copy of an email on September 18th addressed to all elected officials. It is a letter which is being sent to the Governor’s Office to encourage our participation in a regional transportation initiative. It would allow us to receive up to $750 million for pollution mitigation transportation projects. This would be specifically earmarked for transit, walkway projects, electric vehicle infrastructure, safe routes to school and safe routes to transit. This is a regional program that would allow the states to coordinate the installation and development of infrastructure to help people stop using cars and have them use bicycles, walk and to use personal electric vehicles. Councilman Cipollini asked the governing body to review the letter and he is of the opinion this program could generate additional revenue for projects to help our citizen groups such as cyclists and pedestrians, as well as people using electric vehicles. Councilman Cipollini stated the letter was sent by Brendan Gill, Board Member of the NJ Bike and Walk Coalition, which Councilman Cipollini is a member of. Councilman Cipollini will forward the email to the governing body and he asked that they review the information.
Young Drive – Councilman Riccardi asked for an update on the property located on Young Drive with the construction issue which was brought to their attention by a resident’s letter some time ago. Administrator McNeilly stated the Zoning Official and the Construction Official are addressing the issue. The home in question was split in two, half was torn down and rebuilt. The other half was then torn down and has not been rebuilt due to personal issues between the owners. The Zoning Official sent warnings and then a summons. The case has been heard in court via Zoom in July and the penalty was levied by the court. There was a monetary fine but no continuing fines are being charged for non-compliance. This happens often with these type of issues in court. They are considered nuisance charges not criminal cases. Due to the fact this case was heard online, the Zoning Official was cut off before the proceeding was finished. The Zoning Official is working with the Prosecutor to have the charge amended to be able to add additional penalties. Mayor Zdichocki stated the Zoning Official is actively pursuing a solution to this issue.
OLD BUSINESS
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following ordinance for public hearing and final adoption which was read by title.
Ordinance for Public Hearing and Final Adoption
Ordinance 2020-08 AN ORDINANCE ADDING NEW SECTION 82-2.V OF CHAPTER 82 OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE ENTITLED “MARRIAGE AND CIVIL UNION CEREMONIES”
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope desire to amend the Borough Code to allow for the charging of marriage and civil union ceremonies.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, Sussex County, New Jersey, as follows:
SECTION 1.
Chapter 82 is hereby amended by the addition of a new section 82-2.V entitled “Marriage and Civil Union Ceremonies” as follows:
V. Marriage and civil union ceremonies
(1) Borough residents’ ceremony performed in Borough: N/A
(2) Out-of-Borough residents’ ceremony performed in Borough: $75.00
(3) Ceremony performed Out-of-Borough, only a maximum of ten (10) miles outside the Borough: $100.00
Persons seeking to be married or joined in civil union by the Mayor of the Borough of Stanhope shall remit the applicable fees set forth above at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled ceremony. The Mayor, at his/her discretion, may waive the applicable fees. The fees shall be paid by check to the Borough of Stanhope.
SECTION 2. SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 3. REPEALER
All ordinances or parts of ordinances or resolutions that are inconsistent or in opposition to the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi 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:
Councilman Cipollini – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Wronko, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Mayor and Council instructed the Clerk to post the ordinance and authorized publication of same.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTIONS
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 140-20 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE AUTHORIZING THE RENEWAL OF LIQUOR LICENSES TO LICENSE HOLDERS IN THE BOROUGH
WHEREAS, due to the unprecedented health hazard posed by COVID-19 and its significant impact on each tier of the liquor industry and the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control’s (the “ABC”) operations, Acting Director Graziano has exercised his broad authority under Title 33 (“the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act”) to extend the 2019-2020 license term for all municipally issued liquor licenses, state licenses and state permits until September 30, 2020.
WHEREAS, the liquor license renewal applications submitted are complete in all respects, the renewal fees have been paid, Tax Clearance Certificates received, the licenses have been reviewed, and the premises inspected;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the statutory requirements thereto having been fulfilled, the applications for renewal of liquor licenses be granted and the Borough Clerk be authorized to complete, sign and deliver said licenses on behalf of the Mayor and Council to the below named applicants, said licenses being renewed for the period October 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 in the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, New Jersey:
Plenary Retail Consumption Licenses:
1919-33-001-002 Karlbar Inc., t/a Black Forest Inn, 249 Route 206
1919-33-002-010 CKJ Corporation, Inc., t/a Shakey Jake’s, 134 Route 183
1919-33-004-008 Kacz MJ Corp., t/a Bell’s Mansion, 11 Main Street
1919-33-005-009 Sammy’s Italian Food, t/a Sal’s Pizza, 81 Route 183
1919-33-006-007 JMK Hospitality Group, LLC t/a The Stanhope House, 45 Main Street
Plenary Retail Distribution License:
1919-44-003-011 Stanhope Liquor Inc., 141 Route 183
Club Licenses:
1919-31-008-001 Musconetcong Post #278, American Legion, 119 Route 183
1919-31-009-001 Stanhope Hose Co. No. 1, 26 Main Street
Resolution 141-20 RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE OPENING OF AN ADDITIONAL GOVERNMENT CHECKING ACCOUNT FOR INCOMING WIRES WITH LAKELAND BANK
WHEREAS, in light of the COVID-19 crisis, including the restrictions on building access, the inability for use of cash to make payments and to insure the health and safety of all personnel, the Borough of Stanhope desires to accept wires from prospective lien buyers at the annual tax sale, and
WHEREAS, Lakeland Bank has proposed a separate checking account, with no minimum balance or fees, to keep the incoming funds separate from all other financial accounts, and,
WHEREAS, at the Borough Council meeting of September 27, 2016, the Borough Council approved Lakeland Bank’s proposal for full banking services with Resolution 151-16, and
WHEREAS, the Borough Chief Financial Officer recommends this account to keep Borough tax sale wired funds segregated from all other funds of the Borough, and allow lien buyers to pay for liens purchased at the tax sale in a contact-free format.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey that it hereby authorizes and directs the Chief Financial Officer to open this account with Lakeland Bank to enable the Borough of Stanhope to accept outside wires for the tax sale.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to Lakeland Bank, and a copy of said agreement be kept on file in the Municipal Clerk’s office for public viewing.
Resolution 142-20 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF MEMBERSHIP IN THE MORRIS COUNTY MUNICIPAL JOINT INSURANCE FUND
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope is a member of the Morris County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund; and
WHEREAS, said renewed membership terminates as of December 31, 2020 unless earlier renewed by agreement between the Municipality and the Fund; and
WHEREAS, the Municipality desires to renew said membership;
NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved as follows:
1. The Borough of Stanhope agrees to renew its membership in the Morris County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund and to be subject to the Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, coverages, and operating procedures thereof as presently existing or as modified from time to time by lawful act of the Fund.
2. The Mayor and Clerk shall be and hereby are authorized to execute the agreement to renew membership annexed hereto and made a part hereof and to deliver same to the Morris County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund evidencing the Municipality’s intention to renew its membership.
Resolution 143-20 RESOLUTION TO REFUND OVERPAYMENT OF TAXES
WHEREAS, both the new property owner and the former property owner’s bank made payment of the 2nd Quarter 2020 property taxes, creating an overpayment of taxes on this property; and
WHEREAS, the new owner has requested a refund of the overpayment.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that a warrant be drawn to the property owner named below in the designated amount representing an overpayment of taxes, as follows:
Homeowner Information:
Block Lot Qual Name & Address Tax Year Amount
11701 13.18 C0702 John M. Gauweiler, Jr. 2020 $1,408.18
702 Stonegate Lane
Stanhope, New Jersey 07874
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilman Cipollini – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 144-20 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF BILLS
WHEREAS, the Chief Finance Officer has certified that funds are available in the proper account; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Finance Officer has approved payment upon certification from the Borough Department Heads that the goods and/or services have been rendered to the Borough;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the current bills list, dated September 22, 2020 and on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Chief Finance Officer and approved by the Chief Finance Officer for payment, be paid.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilman Cipollini – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Attorney Ursula Leo stated she had no report.
CITIZENS TO BE HEARD
Mayor Zdichocki opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Carmen Pico, 25 New Street, requested to have the “No Parking Anytime” signs located near his home changed to read “No Parking Between 8AM to 5PM”, which would be during business hours. On occasion he has family over and they need to be able to park near his home. Mr. Pico stated he would also like to be able to park in that area on the weekends. The signs on the other side of the street say “No Parking This Side of Street”. The “No Parking” sign by his house is posted due to the tractor trailer traffic. Administrator McNeilly stated the signs Mr. Pico is speaking about are located at the top of the street at the “T” intersection. The parking prohibition for this type of intersection are governed by the State of NJ statutes. Mr. Pico stated he drives through the Borough all the time and there are many cars parked within 25 feet of the intersections and nothing is ever done about those areas and there are no signs posted. Mr. Pico stated he drives a school bus and there is car parked on Lawrence Avenue near the “T” intersection which makes it difficult to make the turn with the bus. The area of Linden Avenue and Church Street is also an issue. There are signs posted prohibiting him from parking by his home and in his opinion the police should take notice and start issuing tickets to vehicles parked in these other areas. Mr. Pico stated he was the only person who parked where the no parking sign is now posted by his house and as a result he no longer parks there. Mayor Zdichocki asked if the no parking sign has always been in front of Mr. Pico’s home. Administrator McNeilly stated the sign has been there between 1-2 years. Mr. Pico stated he was parking in the shade in front of his house between runs in an effort to keep the vehicle cooler for the disabled students he transports. A local business complained because he was parked there and their tractor trailers were coming through there. That is when the signs were installed. Councilman Thornton stated no signs were posted in all the years he has lived there and now the tenant that complained has moved. Administrator McNeilly stated the signs were installed as the result of a Mayor and Council meeting with the Borough Engineer present. Concerns were raised by the business owner and the signs were then installed. There was a similar situation on High Street and Linden Avenue and High Street and Main Street which resulted in emotional discussions. Problems arose that resulted in signs being installed due to the fact parking is not permitted 25 feet from the corner of the leading edge of the road on both sides at a “T” intersection. Mayor Zdichocki asked if the signs were installed because of the business and who installed the signs. Councilman Thornton stated the signs were posted at the request of the business tenant who has moved out. The prior tenant never had an issue because they did not bring in the same kind of traffic. Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, stated regardless of whether or not signs are posted it is State law that dictates parking cannot be within 25 feet of the intersection. Councilman Thornton stated that he is of the opinion that Mr. Pico’s point is because the signs are there it draws attention to the fact if someone is parked in that area. There are other areas in town without signs and people are parking without being ticketed. Administrator McNeilly stated the residents were pleased when the signs were posted on the left side of the road. It stopped the business owner’s trucks from parking on the grass and driving on people’s lawns. Mr. Pico stated the business moved approximately three months ago and the tractor trailer traffic has ceased. Mr. Pico stated he would like to be able to park in front of his home once in awhile when they have visitors. Mayor Zdichocki stated the governing body is sympathetic to Mr. Pico’s request however, as stated by the Borough Attorney, the parking restriction is State law. Administrator McNeilly stated a time restriction cannot be made either in that 25-foot section. Mr. Pico stated he has permission from the neighbor to park in front of his driveway and the ordinance permits that as long as permission is granted by the owner. Mr. Pico did park there and was told he had to move or be ticketed by one of the police officers. Mr. Pico thanked the governing body for their time.
Seeing no one further from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
CLOSED SESSION
WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231 P.L. 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances; and
WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently existing;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:
The public shall be excluded from discussion of and action upon the hereinafter specified subject matter(s).
The general nature of the subject matter(s) to be discussed is as follows:
1 – Contract Negotiations
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 Councilman Wronko, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.
The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 8:03 P.M.
RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 8:20 P.M. with all present.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Cipollini, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 P.M.
Approved: Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk