MAYOR AND COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
September 28, 2021
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 13, 2021 and was placed on the Official Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and on the official website of the Borough of Stanhope.
Furthermore, notice of the change in the meeting location was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on June 9, 2021 and was placed on the official bulletin board in the Municipal Building.
In the event the Mayor and Council have not addressed all items on this Agenda by 10:00 PM and they are of the opinion that they cannot complete the Agenda in a reasonable time period, the Mayor and Council may exercise their option to continue this meeting at an agreed to date, time and place. Please turn off all cell phones for the duration of this meeting.
ROLL CALL
Council Members:
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Vance – present
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wronko – present
Mayor Zdichocki – present
PRESENTATION
Mayor Zdichocki invited Michael Rossi, Superintendent of Lenape Valley Regional High School, and Richard Kuncken, Board of Education President, to come forward to give their presentation.
Lenape Valley Regional High School (LVRHS) – Dr. Rossi thanked the governing body for inviting him and Mr. Kuncken to tonight’s meeting. Dr. Rossi stated he is the new Superintendent and he is proud and honored to be here. He has spent his entire professional career of 34 years in education as a teacher, advisor, coach for basketball and baseball at various schools and at varying age levels. He has also been a principal in three different districts. This is his 17th year as a public-school superintendent in New Jersey. Dr. Rossi stated all the people who work at the school are there to provide opportunities for the students to carve out their own futures and to create their own destinies. To that, the teachings have to be current and relevant. Students will ask why do I need to know this and when will I ever use it. Dr. Rossi stated we have to be able to answer these questions for them and if you cannot answer it, you shouldn’t be teaching it. This is the foundation used to consider everything which is done on a regular basis. The type of courses being offered has expanded. Partnerships with higher education is important. There are 13 concurrent courses right now with higher education. The classes are taught at the high school and if the student is successful, they will earn credits toward a college education. These classes do have a cost involved but it is not as costly as attending a college class. LVRHS has enough diversification in the offerings that if a student wants to, when he or she walks across the stage at graduation for their high school diploma, they can enter college as a Junior and in some cases actually have an Associate Degree. Dr. Rossi stated he is working with Sussex County Community College and Centenary University. Dr. Rossi stated another goal is to prepare the students to be job ready. They must have college and career readiness. The school is working with the Department of Education to provide these mini pathways which would include courses in architecture, marketing, broadcast journalism and several areas in the STEM field. Dr. Rossi invited the governing body to attend upcoming meetings which will be held to formulate the strategic plan to put these programs in place. The meetings will be held on October 25th, December 16th and January 26th beginning at 7:00pm. Dr. Rossi described how the curriculum receives approval, the benefits and the discussions which will take place at the strategic meetings.
Dr. Rossi stated another goal for this year is to create a Lenape Valley High School Alumni Association. Alumni can provide input on what LVRHS could have done differently, what was done correctly and suggestions they may have to benefit the current students.
Dr. Rossi stated he feels he has been accepted into this new job by the school board, the town, the teachers, the students and the community.
Richard Kuncken stated he is an elected school board member from Byram Township serving for the past 8 years and Board President for the last 6 years. Mr. Kuncken stated he and Dr. Rossi are here this evening because there is a disconnect between the school and community since the budget vote went away if the school held to a 2% tax increase. The school has held the line at 2% since that time. Approximately five years ago and for this current year there has been a 1% tax increase. The school’s budget is roughly $17 million and of that, $11 million is the tax levy. And while we say we did 1%, which is $110,000, it does not necessarily correlate to a tax decrease because this is a very complex regional school tax funding formula. This is a combination of the assessed property value, current student population, and tax revenue for each town. Mr. Kuncken stated the school wants to not only connect with the school community of parents, students and staff, but with the entire Stanhope community. Mr. Kuncken asked the governing body to spread the word about the plans the school has and to check out the school’s webpage, follow the school on Twitter and Facebook, and follow Dr. Rossi on Twitter. There is a QR Code available to scan which will provide school information. Mr. Kuncken asked the governing body to check out the athletic schedules, attend a sporting event, and look at the facilities. The school board also meets on Tuesdays but on the second and third Tuesdays of the month and everyone is welcome to attend. The agenda is posted online the Friday before the meeting. Mr. Kuncken stated he and Dr. Rossi are here this evening to let the community know what Lenape Valley is and what the plans are for the school for the next five years. This is a goal that we can all participate in setting. Mr. Kuncken stated he and Dr. Rossi are always available by phone or email, which are listed on the school website, to answer any questions. Mr. Kuncken thanked the governing body for their time.
Mayor Zdichocki stated the governing body is looking forward to working with the school.
Dr. Rossi was asked if Lenape provides shop class. Dr. Rossi stated the school does not provide shop class in the traditional sense. There is a STEM Lab which utilizes items which would have been done in the traditional shop classes, such as wood, sheet metal, hard plastic, 3d printing is available and laser printing. The Sussex County Vo-Tech does provide the traditional shop classes.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated she appreciates Dr. Rossi and Mr. Kuncken taking the time to meet with them this evening. This is a new beginning and a new relationship which we would like to get started on the right foot, which is being done. Councilwoman Kuncken also thanked Dr. Rossi for attending the 9/11 Memorial.
Councilman Wronko asked when the college programs will be implemented. Dr. Rossi stated the program is underway. The program began prior to when he was hired. Currently, there are 13 courses available to earn college credits. The plan is to increase the amount to approximately 3 dozen classes. This spring, the hope is to have at least one or two classes taught at the high school by the college professors. The classes will be Theatre Appreciation and the History of Rock and Roll. Mr. Kuncken stated these classes would be taught right after school. Students would be able to take the late bus home. Mr. Kuncken stated the school enrollment has decreased over the years. Lenape Valley is now a Choice School. This means students from other districts have the opportunity to apply to attend Lenape Valley which provides additional funding to the school from those districts. There are a limited number of spaces available each year, approximately 70. The funding amounts to approximately $650,000 for the revenue. This has allowed Lenape to complete several projects over the past 5-6 years. Some are additions and some are improvements and some are necessary repairs. The capital projects which were done in the past few years include replacing the entire roof on the school building, replaced the parking lots, added handicap parking, turfed the football field, added more turf to the baseball and softball fields, added another soccer field, replaced the home side bleachers in the main stadium and made them ADA compliant, the seating in the auditorium has been upgraded, the bleachers in the gymnasium have been replaced, the STEM Lab was created and air conditioning work was to be done in November but the equipment is delayed. This has all been done within the 1%-2% tax increase. This was all possible largely because of the School Choice Program. Dr. Rossi stated he has also reached out to Drew University, Fairleigh Dickinson University and St. Elizabeth’s but he has not connected on the level that he has with SCCC and Centenary but he does feel they will become part of the consortium. Dr. Rossi stated he has worked with these schools in the past. Dr. Rossi stated Lenape Valley also has a state-of-the-art Student Center and if any of the governing body would like to take a tour of the facilities, they should contact him.
Mayor Zdichocki and the governing body thanked Dr. Rossi and Mr. Kuncken for attending tonight’s meeting and they will be in contact.
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.
Rana Degil, 4 Delaware Avenue, stated she has been asking for five years to have speed bumps installed to slow the traffic due to the fact the school children are walking in this area. There are sections of the road without sidewalks. Grove Road has a 15mph sign and a school sign. There are no signs on her block. Ms. Degil stated she was told there would be signage, police presence and a speed notification light placed in the area and a yellow line painted down the middle of the road which have not been done. Ms. Degil stated she is afraid the children are going to get hurt. Mayor Zdichocki stated she does recall the times Ms. Degil has spoken to the governing body in the past. Administrator McNeilly stated the governing body never agreed to the installation of speed bumps. The speed sign has been placed on multiple streets around the Borough and continues to rotate its way through. It was never intended to be a permanently stationed speed sign. The police are not permanently stationed on any one street in the Borough as there is only one officer per shift. A “SLOW” sign was to be installed. Administrator McNeilly stated he will follow up to make sure the sign is purchased and installed. Painting a yellow stripe on the road was never agreed to. No permanently installed speed sign was agreed to nor a permanent police presence. The first house on the right does not have a sidewalk and the first three houses on the left do not have sidewalks and there is a section at the end of the road without sidewalks. The rest of the road has sidewalks. Just after the first house on the right all the way to the end does have sidewalk. Administrator McNeilly stated the speed limit on a residential street is 25mph.
Much discussion took place regarding sidewalks and the lack of sidewalks throughout the Borough, as well as speed humps. Administrator McNeilly stated the police officers have been patrolling the area around the school. Councilman Vance asked why speed humps cannot be placed on Delaware Avenue when they are installed on Dell Road, James Street, Young Drive and New Street. Mayor Zdichocki asked Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, to speak about the requirements for installing speed humps. Mr. Keller stated the placement of speed humps on a roadway is governed in part by State Law under Title 39 and it is also based on an engineering study. The speed humps on New Street predate his tenure as Borough Engineer. With regard to Pennington Woods, it was decided at that time to put the speed humps on Dell Road because at that time there were approximately 340 units in Highpoint Condominiums trying to get to Route 183. This caused a significant amount of traffic and a significant amount of speeding. The speed humps were installed on James Street and Young Drive due to the opinion that people would utilize those roads to avoid the speed humps on Dell Road. The engineering study has to look not only at the street in question, but all the other parallel streets. Mr. Keller stated he lived in this Borough for many years and is aware of how people travel through the residential areas. It is not unusual, at certain points in time, when people do not follow the law. There are various reasons for considering different types of traffic calming, not necessarily speed humps, but other forms. They are not always appropriate in any given location.
Mayor Zdichocki stated the concerns have been heard and no one wants anyone to get hurt. Much discussion took place regarding various options. Councilman Vance asked what the cost of an engineering study would be. Mr. Keller stated the study could cost anywhere from $5,000 – $10,000. Administrator McNeilly stated the results of this conversation are as follows: the governing body may or may not discuss the possibility of conducting an engineering study for speed humps; a caution sign relative to speed will be posted as determined by the engineer at the lead in section coming off of Brooklyn Road onto Delaware Avenue and the radar trailer is in a rotation schedule but will be placed on Delaware Avenue somewhere between the third and fifth house on the right hand side of the street. Administrator McNeilly stated he will speak to the Police Chief to make sure patrols continue to be done in the school area and he will ask about the possibility of parking a police car in the area. Mayor Zdichocki suggested costs be obtained for discussion during budget planning for a standalone permanent radar sign. Ms. Degil thanked the Mayor and Council for their time.
Seeing no one further 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 10, 2021 Work Session/Agenda Meeting
August 24, 2021 Business Meeting
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Wronko and carried by a majority voice vote, the above listed minutes were approved. Councilman Thornton abstained from the August 24, 2021 minutes.
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
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by voice vote, the Council Committee Reports were waived.
Public Safety – Councilwoman Kuncken/CouncilmanThornton
(Police, Fire, Ambulance, Court & Violations Bureau, Emergency Management)
Finance & Administration – Councilman Romano/Councilwoman Kuncken
Community Development – Councilman Wronko/Councilman Riccardi
Municipal Infrastructure – Councilman Thornton/Councilman Wronko
(Water Distribution, Sewer Collection System, Road Construction & Maintenance, Buildings & Grounds)
Information Technology – Councilman Riccardi/Councilman Vance
Boards/Commissions – Councilman Vance/Councilman Romano
ENGINEER’S REPORT
Mayor Zdichocki invited Eric Keller, Borough Engineer, forward to give his report.
Sparta Road TAP Grant Project – Mr. Keller stated construction is proceeding well with the underground electrical installations for the Sparta Road TAP Grant Project. Mr. Keller thanked the governing body for approving the night work to be done for the crossings. This was a much more efficient manner to get the work done and hopefully it was not too disruptive. The installations along the two trails are complete and the Sparta Road installation is going well. The new curbing on Sparta Road has been completed along with the installation of the new hydrant. Pole and fixture installations for the trails are anticipated for the week of October 11th with Sparta Road to follow at the end of October early November. The sidewalk work will be proceeding in early October with the landscaping in mid-October. The project is well within the contract timelines. Mr. Keller stated he has spoken with Schifano and the target date for milling and resurfacing is mid-October.
Baker Place Water Main Replacement – Mr. Keller stated the Baker Place Water Main Replacement Project has begun. Most of the water main has been installed. There is a sub-contractor needed for the two wet taps on either end to tie the new water main at Highland Avenue into the existing and there has been some difficulty in getting this work scheduled. Once that work is complete, the partial milling and resurfacing of Highland Avenue, Baker Place and N. Central Avenue will be coordinated with the Sparta Road project. There is a resolution on tonight’s agenda to reject the bid received for the Baker Place reclamation and repaving due to the fact the bid exceeded the estimated amount.
Kelly Place, Waterloo Road and Furnace Street Improvement Project – Mr. Keller stated bids were received for the Kelly Place, Waterloo Road and Furnace Street Improvement Project on Tuesday, September 21st and a resolution is on tonight’s agenda to award the project to Reivax Corporation. The bid came in below the estimate and below the amount of the Local Aid Grant. The resolution of approval is subject to approval by NJDOT Local Aid concurrence. Mr. Keller will submit the signed and sealed resolutions to NJDOT along with the bid tabulation.
Baker Place/Highland Avenue and N. Central Avenue Milling and Resurfacing – Administrator McNeilly stated a resolution will be placed on the next agenda. The estimated cost is $40,000 with the work being done through the co-op by Schifano Construction as compared to the road reclamation project cost of $180,000.
7th Heaven Gas Station/Convenience Store – Mr. Keller stated the 7th Heaven Gas Station and Convenience Store was given a punch list of items on August 10th which need to be completed. This was around the same time that Tom Pershouse, Construction Official, issued the Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). Mr. Keller stated he and Administrator McNeilly have had numerous conversations with Mr. Bajwa, owner of 7th Heaven. The TCO ends October 3rd. Mr. Keller stated he spoke with Mr. Bajwa again this morning and Mr. Bajwa has indicated the work will be completed by the end of next week. Administrator McNeilly stated there is a potential for the business to be shut down depending on what items, if any, are not complete. Mr. Keller stated, if the governing body is supportive of this, they will hold to the October 3rd date, which is this coming Sunday. The governing body agreed but stated the closure, as stated by Administrator McNeilly, would depend on what items are not complete. Mr. Keller stated the safety issue still to be completed is the guide rail which has been partially installed. The guide rail has to extend all the way to the propane enclosure. Mr. Keller stated Mr. Bajwa told him this morning the guide rail was installed according to the plan. The problem with that is the retaining walls were built parallel to the curb line which did not follow the plan and now that requires the guide rail to be extended. Mr. Keller stated this fact regarding the guide rails has been detailed in the memos and multiple conversations. Administrator McNeilly stated the delays in completing the punch list are not a result of the fire. Mr. Keller stated there is a driveway which needs to be closed off which is still open and this is a safety issue as well. A fence needs to be installed on the top of the retaining wall at the back of the retention basin. The leader drains on the front of the building discharge right onto the sidewalk. Mr. Keller informed Mr. Bajwa that he would be speaking with the governing body this evening regarding the TCO. Much discussion took place regarding the timeframe, safety issues and the process to shut down the business if necessary. The shutdown would be ordered by the Construction Official and monitored by the Police Department. If activity were to continue, daily fines would be incurred. Mr. Keller stated a full Certificate of Occupancy (CO) will not be issued until every item, including any construction issues, are complete. Administrator McNeilly stated it is very important to leave a certain amount of leeway in the hands of the Engineer so that he can make that call. The Engineer knows what needs to be done from a professional engineer’s standpoint to act in the best interest of this board and the public safety. If a week’s time to do that is advised, the business owner needs to be informed in writing and, as was suggested during discussion, the business owner needs to confirm in writing that the work will be completed within that time or risk having the business shut down.
Mayor Zdichocki took a straw poll of the governing body to determine if they are in favor of extending the TCO to October 11th with the stipulation that the business owner be notified by email and he must confirm receipt of that email and deadline date. The results of the straw poll are as follows: Councilman Wronko – yes; Councilman Vance – yes; Councilman Thornton – yes; Councilman Romano – yes; Councilman Riccardi – yes; Councilwoman Kuncken – yes.
As a result of the straw poll, Mr. Keller stated he will email Mr. Bajwa tomorrow.
Councilman Vance asked what the estimated timeframe is for total completion of all outstanding items in order for a CO to be issued. Mr. Keller stated the final CO will be issued by the Construction Official. Prior to that, the Construction Official will confirm with him that all engineering projects are complete. Mayor Zdichocki asked how many times can a TCO be extended. Mr. Keller stated that is under the Borough’s control. Administrator McNeilly stated if the TCO expires and the work is not complete, the governing body will be notified.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Surplus Equipment – Administrator McNeilly stated there were two successful bids on Municibid. Two of the cars were placed on the bid site to determine how the process would work. This week some of the other items will be listed on the Municibid website. The amount of the bids received for the two cars are approximately $825.00 and $750. Bid acceptance resolutions will be prepared for the October 12th meeting agenda. Then the purchasers will be contacted to pickup the vehicles. Administrator McNeilly stated he is working up to adding the larger, higher priced items. He wants to be sure of the process.
2021 Best Practices Checklist – Administrator McNeilly stated the 2021 Best Practices Checklist was received on September 27th. The checklist is due to the State right after the October business meeting. Administrator McNeilly stated he and the CFO will prepare the document and have it ready for governing body review and comment at the October 26th Mayor and Council meeting.
2021 Storm Water Training – Administrator McNeilly stated he has reached out to the Watershed Association. Kyle Richter, who provided the storm water training for the past several years, has left the organization. Administrator McNeilly is hopeful that Mr. Richter has been replaced with someone who will be able to provide the annual training. If this is not possible, the Borough Engineer will once again have to be asked to provide the service, as he did last year.
SCMUA – Administrator McNeilly stated SCMUA is sponsoring a Free Electronic Waste Collection Day on Saturday, October 23rd. Information has been posted on the Borough website and social media.
Walk To School Day – Administrator McNeilly stated Stanhope’s Valley Road School will be having their annual Walk To School Day on October 6th. The information will be posted on the electronic message board and a Nixle will be provided.
Tax Sale 2021 – Administrator McNeilly stated the Tax Sale for 2021 is scheduled for November 4th. The final list will be advertised on October 7th. According to the Tax Collector, the list is lighter than usual. The Borough had a very good tax collection for 2020.
Borough Hall Telephone System – Administrator McNeilly stated around 3:00pm today the Borough’s telephone system suffered a critical failure. Upon inspection in the back room, the smell of burnt electronics was evident. The vendor, a gentleman from Sparta, was on site very quickly. The system is very old and he was not able to completely repair it tonight. He was able to patch the system however, the auto attend feature, which provides the automated message and the voice mail system, will not be operable. The phone system may have to be updated as part of the 2022 capital budget. Tomorrow morning information regarding the phone issues will be posted on the Borough website. The emergency number will still bounce to Dispatch. There are extensions which are hard wired to the Police Department which should route to the secretary’s desk. If that does not happen, Dispatch will call the Patrol Room. Councilman Thornton asked if there would be any construction issues to fix or replace the telephone system which will affect the employees. Administrator McNeilly replied there would be no issues as all the work to be done would be in the maintenance closet area.
Infrastructure Committee Meeting – Administrator McNeilly stated an Infrastructure Committee Meeting needs to be scheduled to discuss the 2022 capital budget.
Budget 2022 – Administrator McNeilly stated the 2022 budget schedule is as follows: October 5th – Prepare Budget Books; October 9th – Budget Books to Mayor and Council; November 9th and 23rd – Budget Discussion; and December 14th – Auditor and Tax Assessor Presentation.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Halloween Parade – Mayor Zdichocki stated Administrator McNeilly forwarded a copy of the Halloween Parade flyer with the changes being made for this year. Mayor Zdichocki asked the governing body members if they had any questions or concerns. Councilwoman Kuncken stated she was happy to see that the flyer indicates the parade is sponsored by the Recreation Commission and the trunk or treat is sponsored by the school. The Recreation Commission is aware that their funds cannot be intermingled with school funds. Mayor Zdichocki stated originally a fee of $10 per car was going to be charged for the trunk or treat and she informed the school group that the Borough could not be part of that arrangement. Subsequently, the charging of a fee has been eliminated. Councilwoman Kuncken asked why the date is set for October 15th. Daylight savings time is still in effect until November 7th. The parade is usually held closer to Halloween. Administrator McNeilly stated this also poses a problem due to the fact the Borough calendar has the parade listed as happening on Saturday, October 23rd. Mayor Zdichocki stated perhaps the school was not available. Councilwoman Kuncken stated there is nothing that can be done now as the flyers have already been distributed. This does go back to being a communication issue. Mayor Zdichocki stated the calendar was set a year ago but in the future the commission should try to adhere to the set dates.
Tunnel to Towers Walk – Mayor Zdichocki stated she would like to thank the governing body members who represented Stanhope this past weekend at the Tunnel to Towers Walk and the residents who participated. Mayor Zdichocki stated she attended along with Councilman Riccardi, Councilman Wronko and approximately two dozen Stanhope residents. Councilman Wronko stated the event was attended by approximately 30,000 people. Stanhope’s team consisted of around 30 people who raised $15,000.
Pig Roast Fund Raiser – Councilwoman Kuncken stated, while the pig roast is not a Borough sponsored event, she would like to thank everyone who attended. Councilwoman Kuncken will be presenting a check to the Ambulance Squad tomorrow and on the second Wednesday of the month a check will be presented to the Fire Department at their business meeting. The fundraiser was a big success and the weather cooperated.
Recreation Commission Future Events – Councilman Thornton asked if the Recreation Commission has plans to join with the school for other events throughout the year such as the Tree Lighting, Easter Egg Hunt etc. Mayor Zdichocki stated she spoke with the chairperson of Recreation and it does seem like they would like to join forces with the school for various events throughout the year. Councilwoman Kuncken stated, if that is the case, it would be helpful for the governing body to have a little more notice, prior to flyers being printed. Mayor Zdichocki stated the chairperson was unable to attend tonight’s meeting but she will relay the information. Mayor Zdichocki stated the council representative for boards and commissions is also welcome to attend the Recreation Commission meeting to let them know the governing body’s wishes. Councilman Romano stated he is of the opinion their efforts are commendable and joining together is good for the community.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 173-21 RESOLUTION REJECTING BIDS FOR HIGHLAND AVENUE, BAKER PLACE AND NORTH CENTRAL AVENUE PAVEMENT RECLAMATION AND RESURFACING PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope received responses, publicly read aloud for the Highland Avenue, Baker Place and North Central Avenue Pavement Reclamation and Resurfacing Project on August 31, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the Borough received one (1) bid from Asphalt Paving Systems, as attached; and
WHEREAS, the New Jersey Administrative Code at N.J.A.C. 7:26H-6.5(h) allows for rejection of bids by the governing body in conformity with the New Jersey Local Publics Contract Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-13.2 et. seq., and
WHEREAS, the New Jersey Local Publics Contract Law (N.J.S.A. 40A:11-13.2(b)) allows for rejection of bids by a governing body where the lowest bid substantially exceeds the appropriations for the goods or services; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer and Administrator have determined that bid submittals substantially exceed anticipated budgetary appropriations for said services.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope authorizes the rejection of bid submitted by bidders in response to the Highland Avenue, Baker Place and North Central Avenue Pavement Reclamation and Resurfacing Project.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 174-21 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING use OF SCHIFANO CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION & DENVILLE LINE PAINTING, INC. AS SET FORTH IN THE MORRIS COUNTY co-op PUBLIC BIDS FOR DELL ROAD milling, paving AND STRIPING NJDOT LOCAL AID PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope is in need of roadway milling, paving and striping for Dell Road (“Road Project”);
WHEREAS, the Borough applied for and received a Local Aid Grant from the New Jersey Department of Transportation; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer’s estimate for milling, paving and striping on Dell Road is $105,212.00; and
WHEREAS, the Borough is a member of the Morris County Co-Op which has already publicly bid milling, paving and striping services for the year 2021 and has awarded contracts therefore for the various services needed; and
WHEREAS, the Borough may utilize the Co-Op bid price as a member of the Co-Op without the need for further public bidding; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer has recommended the use of the Co-Op bids for the various construction items for the Dell Road Local Aid Project; and
WHEREAS, the Borough awards the milling and resurfacing to Schifano Construction Corporation for District #2 at $2.75 per square yard for milling 0” – 2” in a total amount of $22,550.00; and for HMA 9.5M64 at $72.20 per ton in a total amount of $79,420.00 (see attached bid tabulation); and
WHEREAS, the Borough awards the striping to Denville Line Painting, Inc, for traffic striping on roadways, 4” wide using “Epoxy” at $0.29 per linear foot in a total of $2,726.00; and striping, 4” wide, long life thermoplastic at $0.86 per linear foot in a total amount of $516.00 (see attached bid tabulation);
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, that the Borough shall utilize Schifano Construction Corporation for milling and paving; and Denville Line Painting, Inc. for striping for the Dell Road Local Aid Project at the 2021 Morris County Co-Op awarded bid prices and quantities as set forth in the attached bid tabulation.
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Wronko and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
Resolution 175-21 RESOLUTION AWARDING BID TO REIVAX CONTRACTING CORPORATION FOR THE FURNACE STREET, KELLY PLACE AND WATERLOO ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Borough accepted sealed, competitive bids on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 for the Furnace Street, Kelly Place and Waterloo Road Improvement Project (the “Project”; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Attorney has reviewed the bids for compliance with the Local Public Contracts Law and the Borough’s bidding requirements; and
WHEREAS, the lowest responsive, responsible bidder for the Project was Reivax Contracting Corporation, with a Bid of $192,193.50; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer concurs in the recommendation of the award of the contract to Reivax Contracting Corporation; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has reviewed and approved of the award to Reivax Contracting Corporation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Borough does hereby award the contract to Reivax Contracting Corporation, in an amount not to exceed $192,193.50 for the Project, subject to concurrence by the NJDOT Bureau of Local Aid; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the award of this bid is subject to certification of the availability of funds by the Chief Financial Officer.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
CONSENT AGENDA (All items listed on the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the Borough Council and were enacted by one motion of the Borough Council with no separate discussion.)
Resolution 176-21 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE RELIEVING WATER AND SEWER FEES
WHEREAS, Kyle and Alanna Herda, the owners of the property located at 3 Young Drive in Stanhope Borough (the “Property”), had their house on the Property severely damaged due to a fire on May 1, 2021; and
WHEREAS, Mr. and Mrs. Herda have continued to receive bills in the amount of $224.00 per quarter for sewer and $186.00 per quarter for water for the Property, as set forth in Section 82-2.J(1)(a) and 82.2.P(1)(a); and
WHEREAS, since May 1, 2021, the Property has not been occupied by the homeowner and has not used any water and sewer; and
WHEREAS, Mr. and Mrs. Herda have requested a waiver of water and sewer fees via correspondence to the Borough Administrator dated September 2, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Council has considered Mr. and Mrs. Herda’s request and has determined that they should be responsible for all water and sewer fees up through the end of the 2nd quarter of 2021, but should be exempt from paying water and sewer fees after the 2nd quarter of 2021 through the time a certificate of occupancy is obtained for the Property;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Mr. and Mrs. Herda shall be relieved from the payment of water and sewer fees in the amount of $410.00 per quarter from the end of the 2nd quarter of 2021 through the time a Certificate of Occupancy is obtained for the Property.
Resolution 177-21 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BID PUBLIC SALE OF BOROUGH PROPERTY NO LONGER NEEDED FOR PUBLIC USE THROUGH MUNICIBID.COM PUBLIC AUCTION
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope conducted an online public auction for Borough surplus property that was no longer needed through Municibid.com; and
WHEREAS, one vehicle, a 2011 Ford Crown Victoria (VIN 2FABP7BVXBX107427) was bid on and was won by the highest bidder, Carmen Yannuzzi of State Surplus Auto Sales, LLC, 833 Broadway, Newark, New Jersey 07104 in the amount of $752.00; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Borough of Stanhope hereby accepts the bid of Carmen Yannuzzi of State Surplus Auto Sales, LLC in the amount of $752.00 through the Municibid.com public online auction.
Resolution 178-21 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BID PUBLIC SALE OF BOROUGH PROPERTY NO LONGER NEEDED FOR PUBLIC USE THROUGH MUNICIBID.COM PUBLIC AUCTION
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope conducted an online public auction for Borough surplus property that was no longer needed through Municibid.com; and
WHEREAS, one vehicle, a 2011 Ford Crown Victoria (VIN 2FABP7BVXBX107426) was bid on and was won by the highest bidder, Robert Hillegass, 135 Kings Highway, Hackettstown, New Jersey 07840 in the amount of $825.00; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Borough of Stanhope hereby accepts the bid of Robert Hillegass, in the amount of $825.00through the Municibid.com public online auction.
Resolution 179-21 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATION OF A PRINTER FROM THE SPARTA POLICE DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, the Sparta Police Department has agreed to graciously donate new HP LaserJet Pro M404n Printer with a value of $300.00 to the Borough of Stanhope for use by the Construction Department; and
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:5-29 authorizes the Borough to accept gifts such as the donation being made by the Sparta Police Department.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the donation of the new HP LaserJet Pro M404n Printer.
Resolution 180-21 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. 2020-017, representing property taxes and/or utility charges on Block 11501, Lot 2, C0296, known as 16296 Dell Pl, assessed to Robert J McCrimlisk, 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: M & P Retirement Plan
P.O. Box 2051
Morristown, NJ 07962-2051
Redemption Amount: Tax Title Lien #2020-017 and Interest to Date of Meeting $ 19,278.67
Premium Paid by Lienholder 13,100.00
Total From Current Fund: $ 19,278.67
Total From Tax Premium Account 13,100.00
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Borough Treasurer be authorized to prepare the necessary check as stated above and to forward same to the lien holder.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Borough Chief Financial Officer/Tax Collector.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolutions were duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 181-21 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 28, 2021 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.
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
ATTORNEY REPORT
No report was given due to the attorney’s absence.
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.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION
Meetings – Councilwoman Kuncken asked for a Public Safety Committee meeting to be scheduled. Mayor Zdichocki asked the representatives from the Public Safety Committee and the Infrastructure Committee to remain after this meeting to schedule those dates and times.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilwoman Kuncken, and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk for
Ellen Horak, RMC
Borough Clerk