MAYOR AND COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AND AGENDA MEETING
January 11, 2022
6:00 P.M.
Click Here to View/Print PDF Version of Work Session Agenda Meeting Jan 11, 2022
CALL TO ORDER
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 5, 2022 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 time was sent to the New Jersey Herald and Daily Record on January 5, 2022 and was placed on the official bulletin board in the Municipal Building and on the official website of the Borough of Stanhope.
In the event the Mayor and Council have not addressed all items on this Agenda by 10:00 PM and they are of the opinion that they cannot complete the Agenda in a reasonable time period, the Mayor and Council may exercise their option to continue this meeting at an agreed to date, time and place. Please turn off all cell phones for the duration of this Meeting.
ROLL CALL
Council Members:
Councilwoman Kuncken – present
Councilman Thornton – present
Councilman Riccardi – present
Councilman Vance – present (arrived at 6:54pm)
Councilman Romano – present
Councilman Wronko – present
Mayor Zdichocki – present
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Hopatcong/Stanhope Shared Court – Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough’s current agreement with Hopatcong Borough for Shared Court Services, expired in December 2021. The contract does continue on a month to month basis until the new agreement is in place. The proposed agreement is a five (5) year agreement under the same terms as the previous agreement. The cost increase remains the same at 2% per year. Administrator McNeilly stated he has sent a copy of the agreement to the governing body on Google Drive. The Borough does not have the ability to hold court in the Stanhope Municipal Building. The agreement with Hopatcong is still for a shared court, not a joint court.
Annual Insurance Certificate Requests – Administrator McNeilly stated he received and processed 12 insurance certificate requests for the Borough for 2022. Both of the Fire Academy’s have received use agreements as well.
Hepatitis B Vaccine – Administrator McNeilly stated an arrangement has been made with Sussex County to once again provide the first responders with the ability to get the required vaccines. This arrangement is also available for the Department of Public Works.
Street Evacuation Ordinance – Administrator McNeilly stated Ursula Leo, Borough Attorney, has drafted a road opening ordinance. A copy has been provided to the governing body on Google Drive. The ordinance can be discussed with the Borough Engineer and if agreeable, the ordinance can then be added to the February 22nd meeting for introduction. Road openings up to now have ben done by the DPW for water, sewer and drainage issues or by contractors running service to houses. Gas line openings is a new era of cuts for residents to tie into the lines. The ordinance would provide moratoriums regarding when roads can be opened for non-emergency purposes. Bonding requirements would be put in place to ensure for the correction of the pavement.
Borough Engineer – Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough Engineer will be attending the January 25th Mayor and Council meeting.
Project Update – Administrator McNeilly stated the lights are installed on the path. There was a resident who was initially concerned about where the light would shine. That resident is happy with the how the lights shine down to the ground. The two speed monitoring signs are still pending. Administrator McNeilly stated the deadline of January 27th for completion of the project should be manageable.
Speed Sign(s) – Administrator McNeilly stated in October the governing body discussed the possibility of purchasing two additional portable speed signs as possible Capital items. Councilman Romano stated a note was received from a resident on Dell Road regarding the portable speed sign not working. Administrator McNeilly stated there are timers on the speed signs to turn them off during non-peak times and a stealth mode feature both of which help to conserve the battery time. Administrator McNeilly stated the sign will be moved to the other side of the street when the weather changes.
Sparta Road – Administrator McNeilly stated Sparta Road has come so far with traffic calming in an effort to reduce the speed. In order to reduce the speed to 25mph, the governing body could pass an ordinance to change the speed but it would not hold up in court if challenged. A speed plan study would be the way to properly change the speed. The engineering study would have to show a certain percentage to warrant the change. Councilman Thornton suggested changing the speed limit and monitor what occurs as far as challenges or failures in court. Administrator McNeilly stated Sparta Road is a municipal street and it is the only one that is not 25mph. Radar is being run in this area all the time. With the new speed signs, the data can be captured and evaluated. Reducing the speed limit will be good for the school and the Little League Field crossing. Administrator McNeilly stated he will harvest the data when available and consult with the Borough Attorney. The issue can be readdressed in the future.
Potential Cannabis Facility in Mt. Olive – Councilman Thornton asked Administrator McNeilly if he has received any additional information regarding a potential cannabis grow facility to be located at the New York Box property which is in close proximity to Stanhope Borough. Administrator McNeilly replied he has not received any news from the attorney or Mt. Olive. Councilman Thornton stated he was under the impression there are buffer zones which must be adhered to if a facility is going to be placed within a certain distance from a municipality which does not permit the cannabis use. Administrator McNeilly stated he will consult with the Borough Attorney.
WORK SESSION
2022 Municipal Budget
4-c Tax Collector-Other Expenses – Line 10514523 Tax Bill Costs has an increase this year due to the cost of postage for the pre-stamped envelopes. Line 10514524 Seminars & Conferences has a requested increase in order to send two people to the Spring Conference. The governing body stated only one (1) person from the department has attended the spring conference and the league conference in the past and only one shall be budgeted for in 2022. The amount of $330.00 was removed from this line item.
7 Police Department – Line 10524024 Equipment Purchased has a cost of $3,144 (shown on 7-a-4) for Radio Replacement x2. The governing body agreed this item should be moved to the capital budget.
Councilman Wronko asked if the Borough is paying Altice for work done in the Borough. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough does not pay Altice. There is an Administration cost that Altice pays to the Borough.
7-a-2 Meetings & Seminars – Line 10524026 There is a new budget amount of $900 for the second in command to attend. There are two Sergeants, one more senior than the other. This is the same philosophy as the Tax Collector budget. The governing body stated the budget shall only provide for one (1) person to attend. The $900 was removed from this line item.
8-a-1 Road Maintenance – Line 10529026 Tree Trim & Removal Mayor Zdichocki stated the Ash Borer is causing many trees to be cut down. Administrator McNeilly stated $8,000 was budgeted last year and the amount spent exceeded that. Fortunately, the department was able to handle the cost overage. The DPW Superintendent is of the opinion $12,000 is a good figure for 2022. There are trees at the road edges and in behind houses which will need to be taken care of. With the budgeted amounts in the water and sewer departments, there should be enough funds. Councilman Thornton asked if the giant tree across from the municipal building, which was just cut down, belonged to the homeowner or the Borough. Administrator McNeilly stated after reviewing the survey it was determined the tree was on private property. There is a large tree on Linden Avenue however, which is owned by the Borough. The governing body agreed to budget $12,000 for this line item.
8-a-3 Road Maintenance – Line 105290040 Licenses, Permits, Registrations (Shown on 8-a-5) lists all the permits which are yearly fees except for the Air Quality Permit, which is for five years.
9 Shade Tree – The Shade Tree Commission submitted a capital request for $9,000 to plant Japanese Lilac Trees along Dell Road. The request was received in October as required. The governing body approved the request for $9,000 for the capital budget.
9-b-1 Vehicle Maintenance – Line 10531534 2005 Pumper/Ladder has a request for $8,000 but the CFO has concerns about this item. The cost to repair the pumper in 2021 exceeded $10,000. Administrator McNeilly stated the 1995 pumper should be replaced before the 2005. Mayor Zdichocki asked which one is in better condition. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough has to stay with the 10-year plan and continue to replace the oldest vehicles first. Some discussion took place regarding the costs, the fact that the Borough is not ready to buy a new truck and the supply chain at this time is still not good. The governing body agreed to budget $17,500 as suggested by the CFO. In the event that the funds are not needed during the year, the funds can be transferred in November. The Police Fleet is relatively young and should not have any issues. The DPW will not be purchasing any vehicles this year. Councilman Wronko asked how many vehicles are in the Police Department and Fire Department and is there a required number of vehicles. Administrator McNeilly replied there is no set number of vehicles required. The Police Department has the Taurus and 5 Interceptors. The fifth is a backup. The Taurus does not have patrol capability. Currently, some of the vehicles are being used by our officers for traffic control for Altice. Altice is paying the Borough for the use of the vehicles. Councilman Wronko asked if the Fire Department has to have three active trucks. Administrator McNeilly stated there are ISO standards for insurance ratings for communications, water supply equipment, and training every four years. It is possible the rating could be affected if the number of trucks was decreased. Councilman Wronko stated the department rolls with two trucks so he does not know why three are needed. Administrator McNeilly stated years ago there were four trucks. The strategy is to be able to throw enough water and pump from the lake. Councilman Wronko stated mutual aid is available for that purpose. Administrator McNeilly stated years ago that was not the case and Byram does not have a ladder truck. Netcong does have a ladder truck. Having three trucks is a legacy item.
9-b-4 Vehicle Maintenance DPW – Administrator McNeilly stated the Sterling Mercedes Benz vehicle had a deal for ten years of service once the company was sold. The parts are now getting hard to obtain. Sterling mason dumps are being phased out. The CDL licensing is being moved away from which would be a big savings. The F150 red truck is holding up well. The budget request has an increase of .3%.
9-c Board of Health – Line 10533021 Office Supplies has increased. The increase is for a laptop computer for the department which has been purchased and received.
Note: Councilman Vance arrived at this point in the meeting (6:54pm).
9-c Animal Control Services – There is a one-year agreement for Animal Control Services with Hopatcong. Line 10534061 has been increased to $6,500 from $6,000.
10-a Recreation Commission – Line 10537028 Summer Program was reduced by $500. Line 10537025 Family Fun Day was increased by $500 for 2022. The budgeted funds will remain in the Summer Program in the hope that the program will be reinstated. Councilman Thornton stated Line 10537072 Trips and Dances has a budget of $1,000 and he asked if these events be taking place this year. Mayor Zdichocki stated, if possible, the commission would like to hold these events. Councilman Vance stated Line 10537035 Easter Events used $219 in 2021 but the budget request is $600. Mayor Zdichocki stated in year’s past the funds have been needed. Administrator McNeilly stated leaving a footprint of funds can provide for events when the Recreation Commission volunteers are enthusiastic and the events can take place. Funds left at the end of the year go to surplus. Councilwoman Kuncken stated at the Recreation Commission meeting the volunteers did mention there are prizes and items in storage which they were unable to use due to cancellation of events. Mayor Zdichocki stated the eggs for Easter are purchased through a company called Sunny Bunny which is a program for disabled people. When purchased early in the year, there is a discount provided to the Borough. This is a good program for all.
10-b Environmental Commission – Councilman Riccardi stated all of the plants for Lakeside Park have already been purchased. Administrator McNeilly stated the trails grant was submitted to Sussex County through Millennium Strategies. No changes were made to this budget.
11-a Electricity – A question was asked if the JCP&L lights would be removed on Sparta Road. Administrator McNeilly stated the new decorative lights installed on Sparta Road are for walking, not for lighting the street. Administrator McNeilly stated the overhead lights by the Little League and by the school are necessary. Cobra heads would also be beneficial north of the school as lighting helps to contribute to vehicles travelling at lower speeds. Administrator McNeilly will request a quote to install Cobra lights in that area. Councilman Thornton is of the opinion no lights should be removed. Administrator McNeilly stated Main Street was different because it is a much smaller and slower road. Cobra lights would be beneficial at the bus terminal, which is very dark, and along Route 206 from the Black Forest to Acorn Street. The Byram section of Route 206 is flooded with lighting. No changes were made to the budgets for electric, telephone or gas. The governing body keeps the fuel costs where they need to be. The Borough is not affected by the fluctuations and we receive a discount. The Borough does not pay taxes on fuel. All the various groups; fire, ambulance, police, administration, have their own keys and pin numbers for fueling. Lenape Valley School also has access and they reimburse the Borough.
12-a Condo Services – No changes.
12-a Line 10547120 PERS Retirement System has increased.
12-b Stormwater Management – Administrator McNeilly stated whenever there is a storm, with over one inch of rain, an onsite inspection must be done by the Engineer for all the detention basins. Councilwoman Kuncken stated perhaps a flyer should be included in the water bill reminding residents to keep the storm drains clear.
12-c Municipal Court – No changes were made.
13 Debt Service – Line 10920020 Bond Principal is $0 due to the fact the Borough has notes not bonds. Line 10940020 Note Principal is budgeted at $400,000 for 2022. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough Auditor has indicated the Borough is in a good spot now. $425,000 would be a better amount to budget. A decision will have to be made once the amount of the surplus has been provided. Line 10950020 Note Interest has dropped from $54,000 to $28,000 for 2022.
13-a Grant Expenditures – Line 10700021 Safe & Secure Communities Program was $30,000 last year but the requested amount this year is $16,200. The CFO will be asked at the next meeting to provide the detail.
Administrator McNeilly stated the budget process is in a good position. The review has been finished and the Borough Auditor has provided his input. The CFO will be asked to attend the February 8th meeting. A determination will need to be made as to the start time for the January 25th meeting. Currently, it has been advertised as starting at 6:00pm.
4-b Nixle System – Councilman Thornton asked if the amount budgeted for the Nixle System, Line 10514028, is adequate. Administrator McNeilly stated the Borough has 500,000 credits to use per year. The current amount is sufficient as long as the system is utilized carefully. 100,000 is set aside for emergencies. Each message uses 8,000 – 9,000 credits. The current system is working well and the messages are reaching approximately 1,500 telephones. Councilman Thornton stated he is of the opinion more messages need to be sent out to keep the residents informed. This year there were extraordinary circumstances like when the leaf collector broke. Administrator McNeilly stated messages were sent out however, daily updates are not a practical use for the system. Too much information can be too much. The system is used carefully to ensure there are enough credits left as winter approaches. Councilman Thornton asked if a higher allotment would be beneficial. Administrator McNeilly stated the cost is $1,800 per 500,000. Another 500,000 would cost an additional $1,800. Red alert messages for accidents or road closures etc. use more credits. Councilman Wronko suggested looking for other means of communications through social media. Administrator McNeilly asked who would be responsible for posting that information. Mayor Zdichocki stated the Borough website does provide information. Administrator McNeilly stated in May of 2020 Nixle dropped text messages and sent only emails to residents registered with both. The Borough lost connection with many residents but that problem has since been rectified. Sending notifications is really an Information Officers job and the Borough does not have one. Councilman Thornton stated during extenuating circumstances more information is better than less. Administrator McNeilly explained a Nixle for a power outage during the winter which can let people know about a warming station is more important. An outage that might occur in the summer is not as important for the Borough to be involved. Residents can find the same information we can. Councilman Wronko stated the residents need to be educated on how the Borough will communicate. Mayor Zdichocki stated this is a conversation which can be discussed in the future.
8-a-3 Road Maintenance – Line 10529037 Weatherworks Subscription Mayor Zdichocki is of the opinion the Borough does not need this service. Councilwoman Kuncken asked what the DPW Superintendent thinks of the service. Councilman Thornton stated he would value the Superintendent’s opinion. Councilman Thornton stated when the Borough subscribed to the service he was under the impression the Mayor and Council would also have access to the service. Administrator McNeilly stated the service can only be utilized by a Primary and Secondary subscriber. Mayor Zdichocki stated when the tornado and blizzard occurred, there was no notification. Councilman Romano stated it is his opinion that the governing body is pleased with the work which is done by the DPW and if the Superintendent says the service is of use and he needs it, that is what should matter. Administrator McNeilly stated the service helps to plan days for laying blacktop, when to brine or salt etc. The meteorologist is available to consult with which has been valuable for planning events such as clean up day, etc. The annual cost for the service is $1,700 ($850 split between two-line items). Councilman Romano stated for Family Fun Day they were told the weather would hold until 3 o’clock and that information was spot on. Councilman Vance, Councilwoman Kuncken and Councilman Romano all support the Superintendent’s need for the service.
NEW BUSINESS
Mayor Zdichocki offered the following resolutions which were read by title.
Resolution 034-22 RESOLUTION APPROVING WATER AND SEWER PAYMENT AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, Robert and Heidi Waldron (hereinafter “Property Owners”) own certain real property located at 13 New Street, Stanhope, New Jersey, Block 11303, Lot 6 on the Tax Map of the Borough of Stanhope; and
WHEREAS, the Property Owner currently owes $965.93 to the Borough for outstanding water and sewer fees and has requested a payment plan for the outstanding fees due to COVID-19 complications; and
WHEREAS, New Jersey Senate Bill 4081, effective December 21, 2021, requires that a utility service bill payment plan be offered to residential customers prior to discontinuing services or taking any action regarding a lien for outstanding water and service fees; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council has considered the request from the Property Owners for payment of the outstanding water and sewer fees in installments.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council that the Property Owner’s request for payment of the water and sewer fees in installments is hereby approved in accordance with the terms and conditions contained in the attached Water and Sewer Fee Payment Agreement.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Borough Clerk be authorized to sign the Agreement on behalf of the Borough.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall take effect immediately. However, it shall be void and of no effect in the event that the Property Owners fail to approve and execute the Agreement within thirty (30) days of the date of this resolution.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, 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 035-22 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE RELEASE OF THE PERFORMANCE BOND OF REGAL UTILITY SERVICES, INC. FOR THE BAKER PLACE WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council had deemed it necessary for Regal Utility Services, Inc. to submit a performance bond prior to the commencement of the Baker Place Water System Improvement Project; and
Whereas, Regal Utility Services, Inc. did produce and the Borough did accept a performance bond guaranteeing the quality and completeness of the work; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer has inspected the project site and deemed the project has been completed in general compliance with the contract; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Attorney has advised the Mayor and Council that a maintenance bond be required in the amount of $100,983.61 to be effective for one year from the date of issuance to ensure the quality of the work.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, at the concurrence of the Borough Attorney do hereby authorize the release of the performance bond to Regal Utility Services, Inc. for the Baker Street Water System Improvement Project.
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
Resolution 036-22 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF MAINTENANCE BOND OFFERED BY REGAL UTILITY SERVICES, INC. FOR THE BAKER PLACE WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council heretofore authorized the release of a performance bond submitted by Regal Utility Services, Inc.; and
Whereas, Regal Utility Services, Inc. has substantially completed the Baker Place Water System Improvement Project; and
WHEREAS, Regal Utility Services, Inc. has offered to the Borough a Maintenance Bond in the amount of $100,983.61, which amount has been specified by the Borough Attorney; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Attorney has reviewed and approved of the form of said Maintenance Bond.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Borough does hereby accept the Maintenance Bond issued by Regal Utility Services, Inc. in the amount of $100,983.61 for the Baker Place Water System Improvement Project.
On motion by Councilman Vance, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman 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 037-22 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AWARD OF CONTRACT TO MILLENNIUM STRATEGIES
WHEREAS, the Borough of Stanhope is in need of the services of a grant consulting firm with knowledge of all aspects of the availability of applications for state and federal grants that may be available to the Borough of Stanhope on a competitive basis to assist the Borough in identifying and applying for such grants; and
WHEREAS, the services of a grant consultant constitute extraordinary unspecifiable services pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a)(ii); and
WHEREAS, Millennium Strategies, LLC has the necessary experience and qualified staff to provide grant consulting services to the Borough on an ongoing basis; and
WHEREAS, Millennium Strategies, LLC has made a written proposal to the Borough of Stanhope to provide grant consultation services; and
WHEREAS, the proposed agreement between the Borough and Millennium Strategies, LLC provides for a retainer of $1,250 per month, which amount is not in excess of the Borough’s bid threshold; and
WHEREAS, said agreement with Millennium Strategies, LLC is terminable at will by the Borough.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope that the Borough does hereby award a contract for extraordinary unspecifiable services to Millennium Strategies, LLC, a copy of which agreement is attached hereto;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to execute said agreement on behalf of the Borough.
Resolution 038-22 RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A TAXICAB LICENSE TO STAR LIMO SERVICE LLC
WHEREAS, Chapter 126 of the Stanhope Code of Ordinances requires that anyone operating a taxicab service within the Borough must obtain a license for same; and
WHEREAS, Star Limo Service LLC, operating at 122 Route 183, Stanhope have applied to the Borough Clerk for a taxicab license and have complied with all the provisions of Chapter 126; and
WHEREAS, the following vehicle is to be operated by Nelson Roberto Zuniga and Jossel Roberto Zuniga Carcamo within the Borough of Stanhope:
Vehicle #1 – 2008 Honda Odyssey Wagon, VIN # 5FNRL38608B029682; and
Vehicle #2 – 2005 Honda Odyssey Ex, VIN # 5FNRL38725B131392; and
WHEREAS, the Municipal Clerk and the Zoning Officer have reviewed said application and recommend approval; and
WHEREAS, said approval is contingent upon receipt by the Borough Clerk of proof of required insurance and payment of all fees;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Borough Clerk is hereby authorized to issue, for the year 2022, said taxicab licenses to operate expiring at midnight December 31, 2022.
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, 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
Mayor’s Acceptance of Resignation
Resolution 039-22 MAYOR’S ACCEPTANCE OF THE RESIGNATION OF DANA MOONEY 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 Dana Mooney’s resignation as Chief Financial Officer and Tax Collector for the Borough of Stanhope, effective April 1, 2022.
On motion by Councilwoman Kuncken, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Resolution 040-22 MAYOR’S ACCEPTANCE OF THE RESIGNATION OF John Castellucci as Stanhope borough crossing guard 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 John Castellucci’s resignation as a Crossing Guard for Stanhope Borough, effective January 5, 2022.
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Councilwoman Kuncken stated John has been working here for a long time and has done a fine job. Mayor Zdichocki asked Administrator McNeilly if the Borough is looking for his replacement. Administrator McNeilly replied that the Police Chief is taking care of this.
Mayor’s Appointments
Resolution 041-22 Mayor’s Appointment of Cynthia Lounsberry to the Borough of Stanhope Shade Tree Commission With Council Concurrence
Mayor’s appointment to the Shade Tree Commission as follows:
Cynthia Lounsberry as Alternate #1 to fill the unexpired 1-year term, said term to expire 12/31/2022.
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Stanhope that they do hereby concur with the Mayor’s appointment of Cynthia Lounsberry as Alternate #1 to the Shade Tree Commission to fill an unexpired 1-year term, with said term to expire December 31, 2022 .
On motion by Councilman Riccardi, seconded by Councilman Romano and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Resolution 042-22 Resolution Approving the Mayor’s Appointments to the Recreation Commission With Council Concurrence
Mayor’s appointments to the Recreation Commission as follows:
Nicole Bolognini, unexpired 5-year term, term to expire 12-31-23
Maureen Kurtz, unexpired 5-year term, term to expire 12-31-22
Thomas Yowe, Jr, as Alternate #1, unexpired term to expire 12-31-22
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Stanhope, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that they do hereby concur with the Mayor’s appointment herein named to the Recreation Commission.
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Vance and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Resolution 043-22 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 January 11, 2022 and on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Chief Finance Officer and approved by the Chief Finance Officer for payment, be paid.
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Thornton and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote the foregoing resolution was duly adopted.
Roll Call:
Councilwoman Kuncken – yes
Councilman Thornton – yes
Councilman Riccardi – yes
Councilman Vance – yes
Councilman Romano – yes
Councilman Wronko – yes
AGENDA ITEMS
All items listed on the Agenda for January 25, 2022 were approved.
CITIZEN’S TO BE HEARD
Mayor Zdichocki opened the meeting to the public after advising attendees that there is a five (5) minute time limit for each speaker.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak, Mayor Zdichocki closed the public portion of the meeting.
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 – Real Property
3. 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.
4. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
On motion by Councilman Wronko, seconded by Councilman Romano, and unanimously carried by voice vote, the foregoing resolution was adopted.
The Mayor and Council went into Closed Session at 7:43 P.M.
RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Mayor and Council reconvened the public meeting at 8:04 P.M. with all present.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilman Romano, seconded by Councilman Riccardi and unanimously carried by voice vote the meeting was adjourned at 8:04 P.M.
Approved:
Linda Chirip
Deputy Clerk