WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=Kc8eN0t2g2Y

Part: 1

1
00:01:54.799 --> 00:02:10.720
Good evening everybody and welcome to the July 15th Longill Township Committee meeting. Would everybody please rise and join me in the pledge of allegiance? >> I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under

2
00:02:10.720 --> 00:02:35.680
God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Megan, please read the statement of presiding officer. I got it. In compliance with the open public meetings act of New Jersey, adequate notice of this meeting, specifically the

3
00:02:35.680 --> 00:02:51.519
time, date, and public call and information were included in the meeting that was electronically sent to the Echosetin Morris daily record and posted on the township website. The agenda and public handouts for this meeting can be viewed online at www.longhillnj.gov. A public comment period will be held in the order it is listed on the meeting

4
00:02:51.519 --> 00:03:07.519
agenda. Failure of the governing body to provide a live broadcast of this meeting or technological problems encountered during the meeting that pro that affect remote viewing and/or participation will not invalidate this meeting or any action taken including but not limited to the adoption of any ordinance,

5
00:03:07.519 --> 00:03:25.440
resolution or motion. >> Committeewoman Fettis >> Committee Liberado >> present. Committeeman Verza is under the weather, but he is on Zoom. So, I'm just going to promote him to a panelist. He does not have any voting privileges, but

6
00:03:25.440 --> 00:03:46.400
he is on uh Deputy Mayor Dorsy. >> Yes. >> Mayor Peria >> present. >> Okay. So, tonight we have two proclamations. Item number four on your agenda. Two of the superstars. And I mean that sincerely.

7
00:03:46.400 --> 00:04:02.799
allar superstars for many many years here in Longill Township. Uh the first one we're going to do is Mayor George Arment and I here >> there he is.

8
00:04:02.799 --> 00:04:18.079
>> All right. So I'm going to read this and then there are several other uh titles uh that may held over the years but I'll read the proclamation. Whereas the untiring work and dedication of volunteers, while certainly

9
00:04:18.079 --> 00:04:35.040
appreciated, too often goes without adequate recognition of the valuable contribution that is made. Whereas George Orte is being honored as a Sterling Fire Company firefighter for 60 years of dedication, serving his township where he lives for his entire

10
00:04:35.040 --> 00:04:52.320
82 years of life. Whereas George for 60 years has demonstrated extraord extraordinary dedication, courage, and selfless service as a volunteer firefighter, answering the call to protect the lives and property of all citizens of Long Hill. Whereas George

11
00:04:52.320 --> 00:05:08.880
has served various roles throughout his six decades, deputy chief, president of the state relief association, life member of the state association, truck committee chairman in the 80s, and chairman of the 75th anniversary parade. and responded to countless emergencies

12
00:05:08.880 --> 00:05:25.759
and other incidents with his compassion and commitment. Whereas George, in addition to responding to emergencies, devoted countless hours to training and mentoring new firefighters, supporting community fire prevention efforts, maintaining equipment, and strengthening

13
00:05:25.759 --> 00:05:41.039
the traditions and values of the volunteer fire service. Whereas George has remarkable milestones of 60 years of volunteer service, it reflects a lifetime of sacrifice, dedication, and steadfast commitment to the safety and

14
00:05:41.039 --> 00:05:56.800
well-being of others, serving as an inspiration to fellow firefighters and the entire community. And before I read the therefore part, uh George was also and as I mentioned, he was also mayor for a number of years. He was on the township committee for a number of

15
00:05:56.800 --> 00:06:14.160
years. He was police commissioner. I I I don't know if there are any others. I see his family out there. If there are things I'm missing, please by all means uh tell me. Uh but George is like the lifetime volunteer of Long Hill Township.

16
00:06:14.160 --> 00:06:31.120
Therefore, be a proclaimed that on July 15, 2026, the township committee of the township of Long Hill in the county of Mars, state of New Jersey, on behalf of the residents of Longill Township does hereby extend deepest thanks and appreciation for George Arthy Jr.

17
00:06:31.120 --> 00:07:41.440
service to the township. He's also a Hall of Fame watch. That's right. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> entire township committee. I think Jack should join. Randy should join as well. Everybody.

18
00:07:59.919 --> 00:11:26.120
We'll do that later. You have to come up. Nice. Thank you. >> [laughter] >> Enjoy yourself. How are you? He was enjoying his moment. It >> was nice. It was very nice.

19
00:11:26.160 --> 00:11:57.680
It was I thank you for organizing everything. All right. And Megan, thank you for arranging everything. So, if it's possible for our next proclamation to not have gone first, it's only because

20
00:11:57.680 --> 00:12:13.440
George. So, we have our second long volunteer in Lord knows how many capacities. So, I'm going to read it. Whereas theiring work and dedication of volunteers, while certainly appreciated,

21
00:12:13.440 --> 00:12:29.680
too often goes without adequate recognition of the valuable contribution that is made. And whereas Lisa Scandlin is a dedicated and accomplished professional whose impact on our community extends far beyond her role as director. A long time res and passionate

22
00:12:29.680 --> 00:12:45.440
volunteer, Lisa exemplifies service, leadership, and compassion in everything she does. Whereas Lisa in 2014 was nominated as volunteer of the year in recognition of the extraordinary time and energy she devotes to both her

23
00:12:45.440 --> 00:13:01.920
profession and volunteer efforts. She consistently goes above and beyond for her township and its residents, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to helping others. Whereas among her many contributions, serves as an EMT with the local first

24
00:13:01.920 --> 00:13:17.440
aid squad and an especially demanding and vital role. She is known for her selflessness and reliability, never hesitating to step in and assist regardless of the situation. Her ability to manage a diverse team of volunteers and employees of all ages while

25
00:13:17.440 --> 00:13:32.480
navigating a wide range of personalities and emotions speaks to her exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills. Whether interacting with residents who are frustrated, frightened, or joyful, Lisa responds with empathy,

26
00:13:32.480 --> 00:13:47.360
professionalism, and care. Whereas Lisa, perhaps most notably, her courage and dedication were put to the ultimate test last year when she to respond to an emergency call only to discover it involved her own husband and

27
00:13:47.360 --> 00:14:07.519
their two dogs and Jack. Without hesitation, she sprang into action, performing life-saving measures that ultimately helped save her husband's life. Thanks to her quick thinking and expertise, he has since made a strong recovery.

28
00:14:07.519 --> 00:14:23.680
Lisa Scan embodies the very spirit of community service. Her resilience, compassion, and tireless dedication make her an outstanding person to be recognized by the county of Morris as a nominee for the Lori award.

29
00:14:23.680 --> 00:14:40.079
Therefore, we proclaim that on July 15, 2026, the township committee of the township of Long Hill in the county of Mar state of New Jersey on behalf of the residents of Longill Township does hereby extend deepest thanks and appreciation for Lisa Scanland's

30
00:14:40.079 --> 00:15:11.079
lifetime service to Longill Township. [applause] Lisa just loves when we embarrass her. [laughter] >> So everybody again if we don't mind and Megan maybe this time you could be in the photograph. >> I don't think so.

31
00:15:11.120 --> 00:16:35.560
>> I'm afraid of three people in this town. My wife, Megan, and Colette. [laughter] Not necessarily in that order, by the way. Where's the complaint? Everybody, look at me. Ready?

32
00:16:49.279 --> 00:18:44.559
One two three. All right. We'll give everybody a chance to thank you for coming. Is that a neighbor? All right, here we go. >> All right, back to the more mundane

33
00:18:44.559 --> 00:19:02.000
parts of township committee meeting. Item number five, the meeting is open to the public. Remarks and statements pertain to agenda. only comments and remarks will be limited to three minutes. I'm not cutting you off the >> It should be a relative

34
00:19:02.000 --> 00:19:32.240
chance at the end for items not on the agenda. >> Right. Charles Reno with Milling Question first. Um, these are items about the agenda. Would it also include since it was posted the bill list? Could I

35
00:19:32.240 --> 00:19:48.240
comment on that now? >> Yes. Okay, good. Resolution 2619. I thought this was passed last meeting on compensation.

36
00:19:48.240 --> 00:20:10.440
Was it not? That's a question. >> The um there was an error on the last meeting. While the heading was 2026, the actual salaries were that of 2025. So this is correcting that.

37
00:20:10.559 --> 00:20:25.919
So the agenda from last meeting was incorrect. Correct. Okay. Let's turn to the bill list. And I guess these questions since [snorts] Ry's I guess response for

38
00:20:25.919 --> 00:20:42.159
the finances and approval of these things these questions are addressed at Randy. I'll do it by page page four chestnut run at Longill municipal reimbursement $4,000 to the condo. What's that all about? That is

39
00:20:42.159 --> 00:20:58.320
for the municipal services law that provide condo associations that don't get certain municipal services that they could get reimbursed by the township for those services. This is for snow plowing and street light. Thank you. Page seven,

40
00:20:58.320 --> 00:21:14.880
J. Coburn Associates. I was under the impression that round four was complete and everything was taken care of. And I see invoices here from the township planner about I don't know $5,800 for

41
00:21:14.880 --> 00:21:30.720
development plans KA fees. I see charge hold on I see charges for Jack for COA fees. Isn't this over in February? What are we working on? Round five, round six. there were certain steps that we had to implement in order to comply with

42
00:21:30.720 --> 00:21:47.120
the settlement agreement and the court order. Uh so in Jessica's case, I believe she was uh drafting manuals for various parts of the uh the fair share of plans. >> $5,800 worth.

43
00:21:47.120 --> 00:22:03.600
>> I'd have to look at her bill, but I >> sounds reasonable to me. >> Page 10, Randy, it's made of view at Millington Condo. another $3,500 in uh miss reimbursement. I assume that's the same answer as of Okay. >> And that's the only two condo

44
00:22:03.600 --> 00:22:18.480
associations in town that are entitled to those reimbursements. >> Okay. Page 14. Uh Blaznia Cohen LLC. I thought we were done with all the labor stuff and the chief and uh other labor issues. We got a bill here for $1,800.

45
00:22:18.480 --> 00:22:37.840
We got another lawsuit >> that uh No, we we have uh personnel issues on an ongoing basis. Uh so it's not just a matter of one lawsuit or anything else. He he's our labor attorney. So any kind of

46
00:22:37.840 --> 00:22:54.960
contract uh uh questions, uh contract negotiations, um any kind of personnel issues, uh we talk to our labor attorney about. >> Okay, here's the big one. Then the final one, page 20, our township engineer

47
00:22:54.960 --> 00:23:14.720
We got a vendor total here of a mere 38,900. The one that struck me the most was the first one, $7,876 for roadway opening engineering fees. [snorts] Then a couple other ones got me of interest. Chestnut Street

48
00:23:14.720 --> 00:23:33.120
improvement $5,800. Central Park. Oh, let's see. That's 3,600. Oh, we have Caner Park. They get 700 total. I don't know. Subtotal of 30,000 is a subtotal of 38,000.

49
00:23:33.120 --> 00:23:48.400
God, I wish I was an engineer. Randy, you want to respond to the road one? The one that got me was the was the $7876 for the road closing engineering fees. That is no cost to the township, which

50
00:23:48.400 --> 00:24:04.240
is a good news. That is inspections for public service, electric, and gas when they were when they're doing their meter pits and uh inspections to make sure that they uh correct they fill in the road and repave the road and repave that sections correctly.

51
00:24:04.240 --> 00:24:19.840
>> So, who's paying that? PC service. >> Good. Okay. What about the other 30,000? >> So, 12,000 is uh engineering services for various things. Um the next one is long hel >> 12,000 a month. Is that is that

52
00:24:19.840 --> 00:24:34.720
reasonable? >> This is this was higher month. This is not a normal month. So we had him doing um not only uh the office hours but we uh he did the DOT not he but they did

53
00:24:34.720 --> 00:24:52.159
the DOT application for the next round and some other things. Um, Long Hill Road. Uh, that was, I believe, phase one. Uh, so that was in May. That would have been the

54
00:24:52.159 --> 00:25:08.080
bidding, getting all the paperwork together for them to do the project, the bonding, and so forth. Chestnut Street improvement is again a capital ordinance that was for Chestnut. Uh, in May, it would have been the same type of items, finishing up the um

55
00:25:08.080 --> 00:25:23.520
contracts, uh, getting um mobilization and so forth for the for the pavement long hill two phase two um that would again same same process New Jersey American water sour easements

56
00:25:23.520 --> 00:25:40.480
um that is the ongoing New Jersey American s where they have a they may have a question about easements and so forth and we talk we have our engineer talk to them. Central Park is the uh bid for the trail

57
00:25:40.480 --> 00:25:57.279
which uh they they mobilized I believe yesterday. So that construction will be starting very shortly. Park is the tennis courts and basketball improvements. >> The uh charges on Central Park, are we going to get that back from the grants

58
00:25:57.279 --> 00:26:14.320
or are we paying for that taxpayers? >> Which one? Cancer Park. >> No, the Central Park. >> Central Park we did get a construction um grant. >> Yeah. But is is his are his fees included in there? >> Uh some of the fees, not not 100% of the fees. The other fees will be coming from

59
00:26:14.320 --> 00:26:30.799
the open space uh taxation. >> So it's 30,000 and 12,000. That's reasonable charges for a month. >> Well, I think it's not just the engineer we're paying for. If I'm correct, Randy, that's whatever work the engineering firm's doing, inspectors they send out.

60
00:26:30.799 --> 00:26:47.360
>> So >> I would assume with the paving going on, that's probably A lot of that money is buried in there, I would guess. >> So 30,000 is not typical monthly bill. >> Okay. >> Okay. Um engineer uh billing is usually driven by a lot of capital projects. So

61
00:26:47.360 --> 00:27:04.640
once these capital projects are done, >> there's no more billing for that. So um no, this is not usual. This is this is a high high area, a high time because we have a lot of projects going on. >> Good. I that eases my mind a little bit.

62
00:27:04.640 --> 00:27:20.960
>> So his office hours is what like maybe 10 hours a week here? >> Monday, Wednesday, right? Monday, Wednesday, one to five. >> Eight hours. >> Yeah, that's eight hours a week. So everything else is really all office staff and outside time. >> Let me thank you all for including this

63
00:27:20.960 --> 00:27:38.480
bill list. I'm looking forward to continuing to receive it and I love looking at some of the numbers. >> Glad to make you happy, John. Yeah, I hope we are uh astute in what we're approving here that it all makes sense.

64
00:27:38.480 --> 00:27:54.559
Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Chuck. >> Chuck, I mean this sincerely. I appreciate you keeping us on our toes. [laughter] >> Snarky will come at the second comment section.

65
00:27:54.559 --> 00:28:09.919
>> All right. So, any any other member of the public here in person? I see no one. If anybody on Zoom would like to make a public comment, please raise your hand now. >> I don't see anyone. Mayor, >> thank you, Megan. All right, so let's go

66
00:28:09.919 --> 00:28:27.520
to item number six, ordinance 594-26, introduction first reading amending section 720 entitled vehicles over excluded from certain streets in chapter 7 entitled traffic by adding a weight restriction on a

67
00:28:27.520 --> 00:28:44.720
portion of road. Sounds like this came from the police department and I just it prohibits vehicles with more than 10,000 pounds from using that portion of Lon Hill Road. As I say, I was at the

68
00:28:44.720 --> 00:29:06.480
request of the police department. >> Thank you. Any questions, comments from the town committee since it first read a motion to approve. Committeewoman Fettis. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Verza,

69
00:29:06.480 --> 00:29:22.399
sorry. Committeeman Liberado. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Dorsy. Yes. Mayor Peria. >> Yes. So, here we're going to add 595-26 intro first reading. Jack's going to explain. Did you want to actually go through it? You want me to read the

70
00:29:22.399 --> 00:29:38.720
ordinance or you want to go through it? Either way, I can uh >> I'll read it. I'll read it and then Jack will explain it. So, this is for discussion. Well, it's actually for uh first reading. An ordinance of the township of Longill County of Mars,

71
00:29:38.720 --> 00:29:54.080
state of New Jersey, amending the township zoning map and land use ordinance by creating a new assistant living zone and reszoning block 11301, lot four to an assisting living and memory care res.

72
00:29:54.080 --> 00:30:10.000
has permitted primary use consistent with the township's fourth round housing element and fair share plan the township settlement agreement with fair share housing center and the superior court's judgment of compiance and repos supplementing and amending various

73
00:30:10.000 --> 00:30:26.399
sections of the township land use ordinance now I know the public saying that's a lot of legal and even saying that so Jack could you >> yes >> break it down for us >> in 2023 the uh contract purchaser at that time

74
00:30:26.399 --> 00:30:42.960
of the lot across the street next to Walgreens obtained uh bulk and use variances to construct a 100 unit or 100 bed I should say assisted living facility. Uh that uh approval was granted with a number of conditions and

75
00:30:42.960 --> 00:30:59.200
one of the conditions was that they had to provide 10 affordable beds which became part of our fourth round housing element and fair share plan. All this ordinance does is it memorializes the terms of that approval by the board of

76
00:30:59.200 --> 00:31:15.919
adjustment. Uh I think it's better and I fair share housing center prefers it if uh mechanisms that are part of the fair share plan are actually embedded in an ordinance rather than just a board approval. So this ordinance does not

77
00:31:15.919 --> 00:31:31.120
really change anything. As I say, it just memorializes the terms and conditions of the uh board of adjustment approval. And it's an unusual ordinance in that it basically incorporates the terms and conditions of that board of

78
00:31:31.120 --> 00:31:47.440
adjustment resolution. Uh and then it includes bulk standards on the last page which were crafted to uh meet that particular development. I've run this uh ordinance by the planner Jessica

79
00:31:47.440 --> 00:32:05.519
Corwell. She's approved it and she added certain things to it. So, if you're okay with that, we can introduce it tonight. It will have to get referred to the planning board uh and then come back to you. But that that's the basis for it

80
00:32:05.519 --> 00:32:22.080
is basically to memorialize uh that use across the street so that we protect our fourth round housing element fair share plan. That was a great explanation and I assume what comes back probably have some tweaks in their recommendations.

81
00:32:22.080 --> 00:32:36.240
So this is not the final draft or the final ordinance that that's correct. The planning board is free to make uh their basic job is to decide whether it's not inconsistent with the master plan which

82
00:32:36.240 --> 00:32:52.480
is state talk double negative. Uh but and they can also recommend other changes uh to the county committee. And usually they're very useful and we we incorporate them. >> So any questions, comments from

83
00:32:52.480 --> 00:33:08.240
>> Yeah. Can I say one other thing? I know we've much recommendation in part we've always had a discussion at one meeting before we introduced an ordinance at the next meeting. Uh but because of the fact that this ordinance merely memorializes the status quo of the town committee,

84
00:33:08.240 --> 00:33:23.679
thought it would be okay to proceed tonight, especially because it's only first reading and we only meet during the summer. >> So with that question, comments committee if not for a motion to

85
00:33:23.679 --> 00:33:42.240
approve. >> Second. >> Committeewoman Fettis. Committee Liberado. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Dorsy. >> Yes. >> Mayor Peria. >> Yes. So this is second reading ordinance 592-26. An ordinance amending and supplementing

86
00:33:42.240 --> 00:34:03.200
certain sections of ordinance of the township of Long Hill 1996 to add or update certain terms to remove. Yeah, this is basically a house cleaning ordinance that came from the planning board and as the title suggests, it just cleans up the language basically.

87
00:34:03.200 --> 00:34:21.440
>> And you have a memo from or a resolution from the planning board um 592 that says they reviewed it and it's not inconsistent with the master plan. >> Okay. So now since it is second meeting,

88
00:34:21.440 --> 00:34:39.359
I'm going to open up a public Anybody in the audience for this ordinance only? Seeing none. >> Anybody on Zoom would like to make a public comment regarding ordinance 592-26. Please raise your hand now.

89
00:34:39.359 --> 00:34:56.720
>> I don't see anyone. Mayor, >> thank you. Megan, can I have a motion to adopt ordinance 592-26? >> So moved. >> Committeewoman Fettis. >> Committee Liberado. >> Yes. Deputy Mayor Dorsy. >> Yes. >> Mayor Peria.

90
00:34:56.720 --> 00:35:12.880
>> Yes. Ordinance 593-26 also second reading an ordinance amending land use ordinance of the township of regarding places of assembly, places of worship and public and private schools. Mr. Jack. >> Yeah. Once again, this is an ordinance

91
00:35:12.880 --> 00:35:28.960
from the planning board that clarifies many of those sections that pertain to those uses named in the title. Uh we also discussed this at the last meeting. So, ready for oh I'm sorry we we discussed it and then it was introduced at the last meeting so it's ready for

92
00:35:28.960 --> 00:35:44.240
adoption this evening >> and the planning board also reviewed this for master plan consistency. You guys have a resolution 593-26 um saying it's not inconsistent with the

93
00:35:44.240 --> 00:36:12.560
master plan. So, we'll open up the meeting to public at home. >> Anybody on Zoom would like to make a public comment regarding ordinance 593-26, please raise your hand now. I don't see anyone. Mayor, >> thank you. To the public, I have a

94
00:36:12.560 --> 00:36:34.000
motion to adopt ordinance 593-26. Committeewoman Fettis. >> Committee Liberado, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Dorsy, >> yes. >> Mayor Peria, >> yes. So, item number seven on your agenda, >> do we have to vote individually 1878 or combined

95
00:36:34.000 --> 00:36:49.920
>> for the audit? >> CFO says you can combine. >> So, this is the audit presentation 2025 26-1878 the governing body certification of the annual audit. Everybody has

96
00:36:49.920 --> 00:37:05.680
the audit and as well 188 the auto record action plan. Um I just want to add a comment. Um so basically um you know that the state certification is that committee

97
00:37:05.680 --> 00:37:23.280
review at minimum the recommendations. Uh I know you guys have reviewed more of it. It was sent to you earlier this week um electronically. Uh but the one uh recommendation that we do have in the audit uh is a repeat of last year and is

98
00:37:23.280 --> 00:37:38.000
a repeat of the year before and is a repeat of the year before that uh we we do not have the proper amount of staffing to have proper segregation of duties within the finance office. Um we have evaluated that we have put steps in

99
00:37:38.000 --> 00:37:55.760
place to um mitate as much as we can of redundancy and and people doing too much of the steps within the tax office. We also include tax collector. So within

100
00:37:55.760 --> 00:38:11.680
that and myself reviewing I review on a monthly basis the general ledger entries the general entries the bill list and review the revenues. So to have additional staff in finance

101
00:38:11.680 --> 00:38:26.640
would be not would not be cost effective to the residents of the town and I know this committee does appreciate that very much and they try to keep the cost down. So with that Being said, uh the rest of of the audit

102
00:38:26.640 --> 00:38:43.520
is in good uh good shape. Uh we're in a decent uh fiscal position relative to other municipalities that Maki does and this audit will be once adopted will be placed on the

103
00:38:43.520 --> 00:39:02.400
website under the finance department. >> Randy, thank you. And I just wanted to add one thing if I could that staffing issue regarding finance is really in all towns our size. >> Correct. We're just not big enough to have 8700 people and I would venture to

104
00:39:02.400 --> 00:39:19.760
guess every similar size to us get that same comment. So that said, any questions for Randy comments? I have a motion to adopt resolutions 26-187 and 26-18.

105
00:39:19.760 --> 00:39:38.480
>> So moved. Committeewoman Fettis. Yes. >> Committee Liberado. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Dorsy. Yes. >> Mayor Bergia. >> Yes. Item number eight on your agenda, consented agenda resolutions. Anybody need anything for clarification or to

106
00:39:38.480 --> 00:40:04.000
recuse themselves? Seeing none, I'll look for a motion to approve 26-189 through 200 on the consent agenda. >> Committeewoman Fettis, >> Committee Liberado, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Dorsy,

107
00:40:04.000 --> 00:40:25.119
>> Mayor Pergia, >> right? >> You didn't vote. >> I'm sorry. >> You didn't vote. >> I just approved. >> Yes or no? Yes. >> Thank you. >> Item number nine, committee reports.

108
00:40:25.119 --> 00:40:40.480
>> Frank, you want to start? >> Uh, I can start. I don't have too much to report tonight other than u I know HPAC was meeting tonight. So, we hadn't had a meeting since our last meeting. So, I don't have anything new to report uh in regards to that. Um, open space,

109
00:40:40.480 --> 00:40:57.880
we have a meeting, I believe, coming up next week. I on the 20th if I'm correct. So, I'll be attending that and um I have some announcement later, but uh no other uh committee reports uh at the moment. Kind of a light month.

110
00:40:59.040 --> 00:41:17.040
>> I'm good. >> You good? >> I'm done. Is Vic going to read the recreation report remotely? [laughter] >> I think we're gonna get to see [laughter] >> I don't know. He's in a good mood. That's >> vibes. >> Microphone.

111
00:41:17.040 --> 00:41:31.760
>> We need the mic. Matt, >> summer vibes all the way in wreck right now. Next slide. Our dog days of summer concert series in full swing Thursday nights. Caner Park, including this Thursday. Speaking of which, Street Hassel will

112
00:41:31.760 --> 00:41:46.480
play this Thursday, 7 o'clock, Caner Park. It's a free concert. Scream Truck will be there from 7:30 to 8:30. What a great way to cool off. Construction continues. They're going to pave. It's got to cure. And then they're going to do what they have to do. It'll

113
00:41:46.480 --> 00:42:03.680
be ready early September. Next slide. Wednesday, Sterling Lake. Um Albi Ashbrook, the librarian will be there at 3:00 to read books and do a craft with anyone who is there. Um it's free, so come on down, enjoy the book and craft.

114
00:42:03.680 --> 00:42:19.839
They're halfway through the summer rec season. That means still have another half to make a lot more summer memories. Last week in the grades K to A camp, they had Hawaii day. Always a lot of fun with our campers and they get to do the limbo hula hoop and lots of luauing. We

115
00:42:19.839 --> 00:42:36.079
also crowned this year's checker champion. Congratulations. They collected food donations for 12 baskets food pantry and made a drop off at the First Presbyterian Church of the items needed most for the summer distributions. Thank everybody, all the kids and their families for

116
00:42:36.079 --> 00:42:53.280
contributing. Slide [snorts] seven. National Night Out. I don't know if Frank was going to announce that. Mark your calendars. August 4th, 6 to9 Caner Park. It's free for everybody. Um the local businesses, emergency services. We'll have live music games food treats special

117
00:42:53.280 --> 00:43:10.079
demonstrations, and it's a fun night for everybody. So, come on down. Fall field hockey registration will be open by the end of the week on Community Pass. Grades 5 to eight for players in Longill, Warren, Wong, and Greenbrook. Want to have some fun with summer parks

118
00:43:10.079 --> 00:43:26.960
and wreck? Come join the wreck advisory committee. Visit their website for more information. And the last one, clean up the parks, please. There's so many garbage, you practically trip over them. It doesn't take a lot of effort. Just throw your stuff out. It's really pathetic that people just can't pick up after

119
00:43:26.960 --> 00:43:45.839
themselves. So, please throw the stuff out. The township DPW employees and good Samaritans that go through the park shouldn't have to clean up your garbage. So please pick up after yourselves. All right, the library update now.

120
00:43:45.839 --> 00:44:01.520
>> Libraries open Monday to Saturday during July and August. So the only change since last time is they are closed on Sunday. >> What a good update. >> How about that? There's a lot going on every day for all ages. There's dance class for local businesses

121
00:44:01.520 --> 00:44:19.520
this Friday that's lots of fun. All right. They have a mindful movement class for adults. All are welcome. It's gentle movement, so it's low impact, but it's a way to get moving and get some exercise. There are multiple silent book clubs all around town, so stop in the library and

122
00:44:19.520 --> 00:44:35.440
ask how to join one. It's free and open to everybody. We're having online art talks each month. Register online or with the front desk at circulation. And finally, this could be a big one. We have a K-pop demon party going on this Saturday. And

123
00:44:35.440 --> 00:44:50.160
if that isn't your style, come read it. Read to a dog from the creature comfort. So, I think there's going to be a big crowd this Sunday for the K-pop demon party this Saturday. And if you don't like that, who doesn't like reading to a dog? So, come on down on Saturday. Thank

124
00:44:50.160 --> 00:45:09.200
you, Madam Clerk. >> I thought that was excellent. >> Thank you, Teresa. >> I don't have anything. >> No words at all. All right. So, just a couple of things. I know this took a little bit to get off the ground, but we are going to institute uh town committee

125
00:45:09.200 --> 00:45:27.200
office hours. Uh Mondays 10 to 12 a member of the town committee. I'll start it off. Frank is going to do it. Any other member will be at least one up to two. You can't have more than two. Uh Mondays 10 to 12. Ideally, you can reach out to Megan just to say just set the

126
00:45:27.200 --> 00:45:44.480
appointment. Not because we want to control anything. Uh but if multitude of people come uh we don't want everybody waiting. So if you want to make an appointment, great. If you don't want to make an appointment, that's fine as well. Mondays 10 to 12. The meetings will take place.

127
00:45:44.480 --> 00:46:01.359
>> Yeah. We'll we'll get one of those machines that tracks the amount of people. So if there's a long line serving number five, number 15, we're good. We'll be prepared. >> Yeah. Yeah. Your number's 12 come in, you know. All right,

128
00:46:01.359 --> 00:46:18.560
everybody participated in the storm of whatever it was, right? Whenever it was. All I want to say is a big thank you uh to everybody who helped out. Special thanks to Chief, Chief Gallow, Colette,

129
00:46:18.560 --> 00:46:35.680
Frank, uh the police department, the DPW department. Uh everybody chipped in. It was an unusual that it came into a long weekend and and I would say JC while they do a

130
00:46:35.680 --> 00:46:52.599
good job most times there was some there was some challenges this time people on vacation etc. uh the information that was put out wasn't as helpful as it typically is. Uh the cut and run which is what we

131
00:46:53.040 --> 00:47:09.520
so the roads can be open safely quickly that also was a little bit slower than usual. So all that said uh thank you Cliff Chief Chief and everybody who participated. If I got

132
00:47:09.520 --> 00:47:25.920
anybody I do a I take this opportunity every time. I don't do it in the middle of the storm because nobody wants to hear or get as power out of the power. Please, please, please sign up for long. That is

133
00:47:25.920 --> 00:47:41.920
the best way to find out what's going on. It's not running to your Facebook page and having your best friends complain about their power being out. You can do that, too. The first thing you should do is report it to JCPNL

134
00:47:41.920 --> 00:47:59.720
and if you signed up alert you will get a message from Randy somebody from town hall there will be messages going out there multitude of messages that went out that I know a lot of people on social because they weren't signed up.

135
00:48:02.720 --> 00:48:18.880
I promise the last time these words are going to come out of my mouth. >> Rooster gate. >> Rooster gate. We did a lot of research on this one. No town to my knowledge allows rooers. We weren't outside the box on that one. So

136
00:48:18.880 --> 00:48:36.319
that was fine. We can do tailgate our relative to every time I've seen towns like you know all these things we don't care how many chickens you have per se we're not going to go out there and count them I don't

137
00:48:36.319 --> 00:48:54.800
think the chief wants to go out and count chickens as long as you're reasonable so let's just put that one to bed is over this is question I wanted to ask you

138
00:48:54.800 --> 00:49:09.680
before we did it in public, but I think time is of the essence. >> That's a pretty scary intro. >> Well, you and I talked about it and I read it and now I think the clock. So, this is something that we should discuss.

139
00:49:09.680 --> 00:49:34.319
We may have to do it tonight. Yes. Yes, >> but we may want to add to that. So the only way I can see to add to that or you can put it to the public.

140
00:49:34.319 --> 00:49:50.880
So I I don't know if we would want to consider a referendum specific to that and is there a deadline? >> It's 81 days before election. I'm not sure that I think that's after our next meeting. Is it Megan?

141
00:49:50.880 --> 00:50:06.400
>> Hang on. I can check. >> Hold on. >> I'm not saying I want to do it. I think it would be a good idea to let the public decide. Either way, they're going to pay >> August 12th. >> It has to be in August.

142
00:50:06.400 --> 00:50:24.000
>> I guess that the discussion I think maybe you guys want to have input discussion from the public. because the referendum at this point we're going to put there or anything else we do know a trail that's being

143
00:50:24.000 --> 00:50:44.319
started and that's being funded by Morris County CFO hat on >> could we even faster than we expect in 2026

144
00:50:44.319 --> 00:51:00.640
and then have a referendum in pay, but that's something once you do a bond or township committee has a right to enter into a bond or you don't need a referendum. >> That's right.

145
00:51:00.640 --> 00:51:15.599
>> Because you're you're you're doing the same thing as a referendum would do. Allow debt and to pay off that debt. >> Yeah. In fact, in fact, >> an interest rate. >> In fact, the public has a right to follow a protest to a bond ordinance and and force a binding referendum as

146
00:51:15.599 --> 00:51:38.800
opposed to a non-binding referendum. >> My point is I'd rather not pay more than you need to >> I never borrow money until I eat. And then what you do is get you get tax anticipation notes that are very

147
00:51:38.800 --> 00:52:08.319
And then once the project's done and you have a have a group of projects or maybe one large project, then you go out for permanent. >> Okay. I I mean I just wanted to put it out there so it's in our minds. This is something. Okay, that's it. That's what I have. So,

148
00:52:08.319 --> 00:52:24.400
now I'm gonna turn it over to Randy. >> Okay. Uh so, Longill phase one is uh complete. We're awaiting um DOT inspection with punch list items. If any will be addressed chestnut street, the

149
00:52:24.400 --> 00:52:40.240
same same thing. It's it's completed. We're waiting DOT inspection and the punch list will be completed before we close out the project. New Jersey American Water continues to do work throughout the township and one of those sort of projects is going to be in Long

150
00:52:40.240 --> 00:52:56.160
Hill Road. Um the county section and I I do recall telling you guys great news. The county is going to do Long Hill Road, but with this anticipated uh sewer

151
00:52:56.160 --> 00:53:13.920
work, the county has pushed off the 2026 repaving of that road until the 2027 project >> because of it made sense. Obviously, they don't want to pave the road and then have it dug up right away. >> Um tennis courts and basketball courts,

152
00:53:13.920 --> 00:53:32.079
um this has um been a a more difficult than what it originally appeared to be. Uh they have submitted the drainage system for approval by the engineer for around the tennis courts. Basketball court has been paved. Uh restoration is

153
00:53:32.079 --> 00:53:49.680
still to be completed uh around the basketball courts when they restore the tennis courts. Um the overlay painting um that will be done has to be completed no less than 30 days after the final paving. So they're going to both courts

154
00:53:49.680 --> 00:54:09.920
after they do the paving of the tennis courts which I would think would be probably uh around the end of August. >> Oil oil. >> Um so the we we are very very very aware

155
00:54:09.920 --> 00:54:24.640
of the pathway situation. Uh certain section is is blocked off. Um we will once the heavy trucks are out uh we will have a temporary fix uh with the um

156
00:54:24.640 --> 00:54:43.119
pathways and we do have repaving uh in capital ordinance already. So I anticipate that they'll be likely in September or October where the pathways will be. Um planning board zoning got two new applications, one of them being

157
00:54:43.119 --> 00:55:01.440
Sterling Crossing. Um for a total of 13 that are before the boards, two projects are still in resolution compliance. Um they issued seven zoning permits and three locking permits. Clerk's office issued 620 daily

158
00:55:01.440 --> 00:55:17.839
parking permits and 101 other registrations, licenses and requests processed through them. Fire prevention had 17 fire incidents whereby nine investigations were completed. They are busy with inspections. Uh they're doing business

159
00:55:17.839 --> 00:55:32.720
inspections, annual business inspections. Um and they are um they are updating their list of new businesses that moved in and Don is finding new that has never gone to the

160
00:55:32.720 --> 00:55:50.720
zoning board zoning person. So he's telling that they have to get a zoning permit and so on. So we're catching people and taking people off. Um he also collected um delinquent fees

161
00:55:50.720 --> 00:56:05.839
from Sunrise Detox for fire alarms for 2025 and 26. They are up to date with all the state registrations [clears throat] and municipal fines and

162
00:56:05.839 --> 00:56:23.280
registrations. Ver enforcement had 42 complaints come through the office. All 42 were investigated. Notices and/or summones were sent out appropriately. 12 temporary signs were issued. There were he issued 15 recycling warning tags and

163
00:56:23.280 --> 00:56:42.559
he did four fire inspections. Uh finance uh we collected 2025 During the month of June, we collected 16,661 2026 taxes, $158,196, [cough] other revenue 205,463

164
00:56:42.559 --> 00:56:59.794
and parking utility 2600. Uh total dispersements we had local school tax, 594,554, regional school tax 637,866, and other dispersments. including

165
00:56:59.794 --> 00:57:17.359
[clears throat] salary and wages 1,64,42 and the park utility of 222 deputy mayor have already talked about the uh the concerts in the park and recreation municipal court um we

166
00:57:17.359 --> 00:57:33.359
collected 13,987 in fines and cost in which the town were able to keep 3,937 70 tickets were 18ued.

167
00:57:33.359 --> 00:57:52.480
Year to date we have collected 65,446 and the township was $23,022. Public works they have finished the storm debris curbside pickup as of 7:15. As of the end of today they they have

168
00:57:52.480 --> 00:58:08.559
finished. So if you if you have uh debris out um There were certain properties that cut down bushes in front of their houses and put them out. This was for storm debris only. So, uh, bring

169
00:58:08.559 --> 00:58:24.319
those stuff in before the code enforcement gets to you. Um, you have to dispose of them, um, on your own. Uh, the public works will not go back as stated in the beginning. Uh, they did one through, one straight

170
00:58:24.319 --> 00:58:40.799
through. Uh, they did have 120 truckloads of So there were three styrofoam days of processing, 10 days basin cleanings uh completing uh all 1300 plus routine B uh

171
00:58:40.799 --> 00:58:58.559
basin repair continue uh and we also do prepaving upgrades uh for the streets that'll be coming that'll be in our um milling and paving program. Um how do we have a tenative date for that yet?

172
00:58:58.559 --> 00:59:15.520
Okay. Um and once once those uh once we have those tenative dates, it will be advertised on the uh website and uh projected dates for each street and we'll have the list of streets and so forth. So um just again like the mayor

173
00:59:15.520 --> 00:59:32.640
said, either sign up for alert uh longill alert long or go to our website. That's where you'll get the information. Um they did a lot of clean up at the lake, spread the sand. Uh they did two days of

174
00:59:32.640 --> 01:00:02.640
sweeping storm clean up, five days of tree clean up separate from the storm and lawn maintenance and welcome signs that were reports. That's great. >> You already mentioned the

175
01:00:02.640 --> 01:00:22.640
meet the mayor office hours and meet the committee office hours >> 10 to 12 every Monday. >> There you go. We should put it on the website. >> It will it will be on the website tomorrow. Um and it starts this coming Monday. >> July 20th.

176
01:00:22.640 --> 01:00:41.680
>> Mayor's kicking it off. First one >> mayor said the first 20 people will get free coffee. [laughter] >> I just put you on the spot. >> Yeah, there you go. You got to write that in your notes now. >> Anyway, that's not relevant.

177
01:00:41.680 --> 01:00:58.400
>> Item number where are we? Oh, here we go. Discussion items. I do apologize. Item number 11. This is for discussion. An ordinance amending and supplementing C. of the land use ordinance long to amend section L-123

178
01:00:58.400 --> 01:01:16.000
entitled prohibited uses. Um is this in light of what my conversation regarding data centers? >> Uh yes to some extent. >> I just want Okay. But I want to give some context as to why I called Jack on this. >> It has been said in this room and I

179
01:01:16.000 --> 01:01:32.160
didn't really know at the time uh that towns like Warren and Warren in particular [clears throat] had banned data centers. In fact, that is not correct. Been in touch with the mayor on various reasons over the last couple of months.

180
01:01:32.160 --> 01:01:48.000
What they did is uh made data centers a prohibited use which in my opinion I think but in either case our current ordinance already does however I think we had already kicked it to the so it's

181
01:01:48.000 --> 01:02:05.119
a prohibited use if somebody wanted to apply to data center. It's not banned. Can't ban it. So, they would have to go to one of the land use for site planning or adjustment. But the point is Warren

182
01:02:05.119 --> 01:02:23.280
which was referenced here did not prohibit which I believe we already have existing ones. That said, I'm going to turn it over to you. >> Yeah, this is another ordinance that came from the planning board, mayor. uh and it does two things with respect to

183
01:02:23.280 --> 01:02:40.079
prohibited uses in the zoning ordinance. The first thing it does is removes super superolous and obsolete language. For example, the current ordinance prohibits mink farms, fox farms, and commercial pigaries,

184
01:02:40.079 --> 01:02:55.680
nightclubs, and dance halls, various other uses that uh are archaic to say the least. And it replaces that with a catch all prohibition that says all uses not specifically permitted by this

185
01:02:55.680 --> 01:03:12.160
ordinance are expressly prohibited. So that would apply to data centers as you referenced. So they cleaned up the language. We did and at the recommendation of Liber we did send it to the planning board and they have responded as we asked them to. have

186
01:03:12.160 --> 01:03:29.520
insisted they answer us as quickly as possible and appears they have and they did before there was a litany of uses and it appears that over time anytime something became controversial they just added it to the uh to the list and now as I said they they've changed that and

187
01:03:29.520 --> 01:03:48.720
substituted one blanket prohibition and then it it continues the prohibition against cannabis establishments Okay, that's it for that. >> So, questions or comments to Jack because this is something you specifically asked. >> Well, is our discussion discussion still

188
01:03:48.720 --> 01:04:04.000
not dead about the data centers? Correct. >> No, you can still >> Yeah, I mean I don't know why just throw it as a prohibited use because I mean everybody wants to be cute and be honest, no offense to Patrices, you and everybody else that really busted their butts to do the the uh master plan.

189
01:04:04.000 --> 01:04:20.640
Nobody reads it. So to be honest with you, the general public doesn't care what the master plan says. They know buzzwords. They know certain catchphrases. And if we can prohibit a pigory or a motel or a movie theater, why can't we prohibit a data center? >> No longer banned. >> Well, okay, then I can start a pigory

190
01:04:20.640 --> 01:04:35.359
next week and a Fox form. >> Night nightclub. What about nightclub, Jack? That's too >> That was prohibited before. Yes. No, but to be And I hear what you're saying. It's kind of like why didn't the governor ban I apologize. Why didn't she declare a state of emergency? I went

191
01:04:35.359 --> 01:04:52.599
painstakingly through the reasons why it was not necessary in order to qualify. That aside, I hear what you're saying. Why not do it anyway? >> Correct. >> I think the answer is what the plan said to us any notific

192
01:04:54.799 --> 01:05:10.559
>> and so I don't understand then what's the harm of just adding two words to the or three words AI data data center to the thing. I don't see what the harm is in doing this. And it's not gonna hurt anybody. >> You could certainly do that. >> Yeah. And granted, look, we all know logistically it's almost impossible. But

193
01:05:10.559 --> 01:05:26.640
as you said, was a a emotional support ordinance. >> Is that what it's referred to as stole that? >> You stole that from Yes. But that's what it is. You know what? If it makes people feel better, it's a very simple thing to do and it's done. And if somebody wants to come get a variance, fine. But I

194
01:05:26.640 --> 01:05:42.079
think it's just easier. Designate it that, take it off the playing field, and it's done. Then we don't have to talk about it anymore. >> This is not a hill I'm going to die on. particularly when back whatever the majority says I'm fine with but understand the only only thing that

195
01:05:42.079 --> 01:05:58.640
would be banned correct me if I'm wrong would be anything that's not on the list and data centers >> that's fine and cannabis >> and cannabis is fair enough >> so we could certainly add a paragraph C >> to the ordinance and add data centers >> and I I would say put in the back of

196
01:05:58.640 --> 01:06:13.359
your mind I said it at first facitiously when it was first brought up and I brought up small modular reactors, nuclear reactors. They're coming sooner than we think maybe 10 years from now and that does not require as much space.

197
01:06:13.359 --> 01:06:30.559
So at least it's still banned. SMRs are banned by what you just said. Correct me if I'm wrong. >> Yes. >> So I'm not I'm fine either way. >> If the vote is 32 to ban it, I have no problem doing >> All right. No, I guess that's fair because tonight it might be

198
01:06:30.559 --> 01:06:51.760
22. But he can't vote. >> Well, he can participate in the discussion item. No, >> he can participate, but he can't vote. That's right. >> Vic, if you can hear us, unmute yourself if you want to make a comment in regards

199
01:06:51.760 --> 01:07:13.920
to um data centers in the ordinance. >> I guess he's not going to Sorry, we put you on the spot there. All right. So, just if you don't mind, put it on the next meeting. I think we kind of know what people are. I'm fine either way. I just

200
01:07:13.920 --> 01:07:30.000
>> So, I'll continue this particular ordinance. Oh, >> no. This one. >> Hello. >> I'm good. I have no comment. I'm good. >> Okay. >> But if you have no comment, that doesn't help us. It can still end up too. >> But this ordinance will be introduced at

201
01:07:30.000 --> 01:07:45.599
the next meeting. So it could be introduced either with or without >> paragraph C. >> So are we going to leave it as is and then >> I put it on for introduction and >> right we'll put it on >> the question of whether we're adding a paragraph C. >> Is that okay? >> Perfectly fine by me. >> Okay.

202
01:07:45.599 --> 01:08:07.200
>> Everybody good? >> Y me too. >> Thank you. All right. An ordinance amending section L134-7 sheds to update standards. What about this one? >> I don't know. >> They're going through the master plan and getting

203
01:08:07.200 --> 01:08:25.920
>> Yes, this is a cleanup from the planning board that also came through. The um ordinance review committee submitted this to you guys just for consideration. >> This is just discussion. >> Correct. It's just discussion.

204
01:08:25.920 --> 01:09:00.960
will be introduced. >> Pretty self-explanator. [laughter] >> All right, we'll move on. Item number 12, all new business. Seeing none or >> the only thing I would throw out there is um you know I want to thank Randy and

205
01:09:00.960 --> 01:09:16.640
I want to thank Mark Andre uh for assisting uh keeping an eye on things DPW for us. We've had some people from out of town uh taking advantage of our very kind services here of, you know, take care of the brush and the debris. And it's very

206
01:09:16.640 --> 01:09:33.440
nice that Mark was able to put some time in and come down here and spot check IDs and start discovering we have some visitors from out of town dumping with our brush pile and such. So, uh it's good that we did that. I appreciate that. And you know, Mark will be keeping an eye out and uh you know, because

207
01:09:33.440 --> 01:09:50.560
obviously it costs our taxpayers money to process all that material and make it in the mulch. And you know, other towns don't necessarily offer that service. So, of course, people would want to drive over here, but just try to keep everybody honest. So, you might see Mark out there checking your uh ID, make sure

208
01:09:50.560 --> 01:10:15.199
you're from town. That's uh and like I said, DPW did a great job along with everybody else. So I would say our very own DorsyW department become a little bit of a recycling rockar in all the local newspapers. >> That's right. He was in the paper.

209
01:10:15.199 --> 01:10:31.600
That's right. >> Facebook. >> Yeah. >> It's gone viral. >> It has gone viral. And kidding aside, this is that worked on a number of including Warren,

210
01:10:31.600 --> 01:10:48.880
especially Matt and Steve for the styrofoam, but any chance we get to partner with our neighbors, our towns, we do. And so I said that honestly, Matt has worked very hard on recycling for

211
01:10:48.880 --> 01:11:04.400
probably 10 years now. >> Just I have to say I was down there because my mother got a new TV. So I recycled the box, the styrofoam, old batteries, uh what else? Oh, I electron the old TV I got rid of down there >> and there was a gentleman dumping food

212
01:11:04.400 --> 01:11:20.960
waste. I was there and I recycled plastic bags and then I was accosted by a resident and then I went to work [laughter] >> and the resident's in the room. >> Yeah, correct. >> Mark asked for >> No, Mark was not at the gate, but yes, but there was somebody else policing the area and he got to me. Yeah, Chuck

213
01:11:20.960 --> 01:11:36.560
volunteered to fill it when Mark's not available. >> I'm sure he will. >> So, anything else? >> Item number. >> Yes. When we get to that. >> Yeah. So, item number 13. So, that's announcements. National Night Out has been announced previously this evening,

214
01:11:36.560 --> 01:11:54.589
but it's August 4th 6 to 9. It is always a wonderful time. It's right here at Park. Um, >> are they doing Dunk the Mayor this year? I think it's the new >> Well, theres is the newest. [laughter]

215
01:11:55.920 --> 01:12:14.400
>> So, it would be you. [laughter] >> That's right. I think a pass. >> That's right. Yes, he does. >> All right. So, you have an announcement? >> Yes. Um, so the only announcement I have for tonight is um mark your calendars for next year. We got all four uh first

216
01:12:14.400 --> 01:12:30.640
responder agencies together. Millington Fire, Sterling Fire, Will Police, First Aid Squad. We're going to do a our first all together golf outing next year which will benefit uh all the agencies and it'll be open obviously to the

217
01:12:30.640 --> 01:12:46.320
community, whoever wants to sign up. Uh there will be information coming in the near future, but we do have a date. It's going to be May 24th, 2027. It's the Monday of the week before Memorial Day, so the weather should be nice. It's going to be at Brook Lake Country Club

218
01:12:46.320 --> 01:13:01.040
and uh it should be a great time for all. It'll be good to meet all your first responders in town. It'll be great for residents and sponsors and businesses. And I think it'll be something that, you know, kind of brings the community together and hopefully if it really takes off, it'll be something

219
01:13:01.040 --> 01:13:17.520
we'll do annually. Um and it'll be nice to have everybody working together on a team. We have set up our committee together. We've already met. So once uh hopefully for the next meeting, council meeting, our flyers will be together. You'll start looking for it on social media and uh it should be a great a

220
01:13:17.520 --> 01:13:36.800
great event and we're really looking forward to it. >> I think that just tremendous idea because you folks men and women typically when you meet it's an emergency. So I think that's a great idea. Yeah, it's going to be something really nice and you know I've run other golf outings

221
01:13:36.800 --> 01:13:53.120
with other agencies and God bless you. >> So we're going to piggy back off of that and uh it'll just be nice all four agencies working together. >> So it'll be a great event. >> So thank you. >> Thank you for bring All right. So uh anybody else know item number 14. The meeting is open to the public remarks

222
01:13:53.120 --> 01:14:22.880
statements pertaining to any matter any matter. While we know each other well just to give you a little additional information or 26 as a member of the planning board our

223
01:14:22.880 --> 01:14:40.080
legal council advised us not to delineate prohibited uses in her expert opinion that can be used against you. But you list you're prohibited, then when someone comes in

224
01:14:40.080 --> 01:14:57.120
with um site plan, whatever that they want to do, which is not good for the town but isn't listed on the prohibited list, it kind of gives them additional fuel to say, well, you didn't prohibit

225
01:14:57.120 --> 01:15:13.440
this. So, it's expert that told us us being the planning board not to start singling out things as as prohibited. So bear that in mind that's

226
01:15:13.440 --> 01:15:30.880
I appreciate you coming. In fact, that was my point all along because and I I have a good mentor Jack has explained that to me. If you b I'm trying to think something analogy, but if you ban one thing, but you didn't ban something that's similar.

227
01:15:30.880 --> 01:15:47.040
>> Therefore, since you didn't similar, you've approved it, which isn't true, of course but >> so you know, it's still going to go through zoning board or planning board or whatever. Um, but bear that in mind. That's why data centers were not

228
01:15:47.040 --> 01:16:02.719
specifically or any anything else was notified. Um, also as a member of the planning board, the shed ordinance that was recommended to the planning board in the annual report by the zoning board that

229
01:16:02.719 --> 01:16:19.840
was one of the complaints that they saw on their hit list quite often and asked the planning board to address the sheds issue. So that's why has gone high up on the list of ordinances that we are the planning board are looking at, but

230
01:16:19.840 --> 01:16:36.880
specifically the ordinance review. Uh just changing things a little bit the asphalt side sidewalking in Caner Park. I'm glad that you're addressing that. It's more than just repaving. I'm sure you've walked around there on there

231
01:16:36.880 --> 01:16:54.880
almost every day. It's in really hazardous repair. It's an accident waiting to So I hope that it's budgeted. If not, we come up with the money because it's going to be more than just paving over. It looks like a huge project.

232
01:16:54.880 --> 01:17:13.520
>> Yes. And we have also discussed about adding a >> Yes, we we are aware of that. We were aware of it prior to the construction beginning and we had money set aside last year to do it and we consciously

233
01:17:13.520 --> 01:17:30.159
decided not to do it not to waste the taxpayer money uh because we were having cement trucks, front end loaders, dump trucks uh doing that work on the two ports. So it unfortunately it got destroyed a lot quicker than I thought

234
01:17:30.159 --> 01:17:47.520
it would. Um it only held up one day I think with the heavy trucks but We are fully aware of it. U quite honestly, I was hoping that they would be out already. That's not the case. We had some issues. You know, we're resolving those issues, but um you know,

235
01:17:47.520 --> 01:18:03.199
we're gonna we're going to have a a great product at the end of today and uh the paths are going to look sharp. Al Lisa and I are working together to put in the limits of where we need to

236
01:18:03.199 --> 01:18:20.960
do. It will If there's any base that needs stone that needs to be put down, we'll put that down. >> Excellent. >> It'll be it'll be done the right way. >> And I'm glad to hear you say there are some areas that are heavy traffic. >> Yes. >> That probably could could benefit from

237
01:18:20.960 --> 01:18:37.840
>> Yeah. We we see where foot traffic goes off the paths. So we're trying to redirect people and maybe put top soil and fill in grass where grass should instead of foot. So we're we're working

238
01:18:37.840 --> 01:18:52.400
on that and like I said probably in reality probably September October but it'll be nice fall weather for walking. Um lastly, uh in my previous role as being a member of the master plan

239
01:18:52.400 --> 01:19:07.280
committee, um I had a task of taking photos of some areas around town that could be potentially in need of redevelopment. So just getting cutting to the chase, I have a photo of the

240
01:19:07.280 --> 01:19:24.320
thermoplastics site on my phone from November 11th, 2019. Needless to say, I'm pleased to see that something has happened there. Uh, Battleship Gray is better than than Rust.

241
01:19:24.320 --> 01:19:39.840
>> So, I don't know who facilitated that or how you got it done. >> But it it's appreciated and now maybe we can focus our attention on the property next to it. But this is a start and it's something and maybe it even helps the

242
01:19:39.840 --> 01:19:56.880
land owner get that property leased because it's better looking than it was prior to the paint job. Thank you, >> Pam. Vic was out there. I saw him my own two eyes the day after you spoke to us about two months ago and he was out

243
01:19:56.880 --> 01:20:12.640
there the next day. >> Yeah, I also brought it to his attention whenever I saw him. >> Nice. >> Just he heard. >> Thank you, man. >> Pam, thank you for your patience for staying all this time. And Vic, if you're here, I mean this in a very complimentary way. did get something. He

244
01:20:12.640 --> 01:20:31.840
gets that bone in his mouth. >> That's true. >> So that best that was done. >> Okay. Meeting still open to the public. >> Hi Justin Daly from Myersville. >> Hi. >> I'm one of the chicken gate people.

245
01:20:31.840 --> 01:20:47.040
Um you know. All right. So first of all, I'm here to object to police regulation section 3-20. uh we'll call it the unnecessary chicken law. Um overnight you made activities

246
01:20:47.040 --> 01:21:04.159
that I have participated in for the last 10 years illegal for you. I guess it's not a big deal. Counting chickens is not something that you're worried about, but there's a lot of people in the community that are uh being able to freerange our chickens. That's another item that's in

247
01:21:04.159 --> 01:21:19.360
that law. That's something I like to do. It's not legal. $100 fine. All right. Like you have to understand like words have meanings. This can be used against us. This is like very anxiety writing for a lot of people in

248
01:21:19.360 --> 01:21:35.280
the community. All right. This is a direct attack at us. It's a fine. Maybe it's not a big deal. It's only $100, right? But you can still come at us. Our neighbors can come after us. Like it's not a fun thing to have hanging over our heads.

249
01:21:35.280 --> 01:21:51.760
So I and I know it's this was about a rooster originally, but you did a whole law and I understand you're saying yes that other towns had this like we're just using what other people used, but it wasn't in this town. Okay. 10 years ago when I moved here, I moved here

250
01:21:51.760 --> 01:22:08.159
because it was a town that was not full of tons of regulations. Overnight, an activity that I enjoy, which is freeranging my chickens, is now legal. Now, I know it's it's maybe a simple thing for for you guys just, oh yeah, it got passed. It's not that big of a deal,

251
01:22:08.159 --> 01:22:24.080
but it it affects people. It hurts a lot of people. >> Oh my god. >> All right. So So in your rule, in your mandated shall, the use of the word shall, you mandated that my chickens

252
01:22:24.080 --> 01:22:41.199
have to stay within an enclosure andor the coupe. Okay. outside of the coupe and the enclosure in my yard enjoying my wonderful yards, my beautiful hens can enjoy the insects, take care of all the little uh you know uh deer ticks that my

253
01:22:41.199 --> 01:22:57.760
kids might get otherwise. Chickens do have a purpose. Okay. When they free range in my backyard outside of the enclosure, >> right, >> that you have mandated they must be within, they are serving a purpose. >> No, I want to make sure I understand

254
01:22:57.760 --> 01:23:15.600
I get I get the concept, but do they are they able in your yard? Are they able to go on to your neighbors properties? >> Yes, they are. In my yard, they absolutely are. And my neighbors I've spoken them to about it 10 years ago when I first moved in, I told them I was

255
01:23:15.600 --> 01:23:31.120
going to get chickens. And I asked them, "Hey, is it okay if I do this or do I need to put up a fence?" They said, "No problem." So, for 10 years, my chickens have gone into my neighbor's yards. And guess where else my chickens love to go? My front yard where I have garden beds,

256
01:23:31.120 --> 01:23:47.280
okay? And I'm right there on Myersville Road for the whole world to see. Okay? So, it could not just be my neighbors. It could be one of our many citizens who hate chickens for whatever reason. I don't know why people have a vendetta against a beautiful little domesticated

257
01:23:47.280 --> 01:24:02.560
bird. Okay, we have plenty of wild birds in this town, but all of a sudden our domesticated birds are a huge issue. Okay, listen. This affects me and I'm angry about it. Okay, I wouldn't otherwise come to this meeting if it

258
01:24:02.560 --> 01:24:19.280
wasn't for the fact that literally right now as actually at this point they're in the they're in the coupe, but today and most days they're doing an activity that I will get hit with a $100 fine for and I don't want that hanging over my head. If you want to leave it with the rooster, I think you should repeal the

259
01:24:19.280 --> 01:24:35.199
entire ordinance. But if you want to just prohibit it ordinant the roosters, then do that. But get rid of the rest of the law because the rest of the law is a direct attack at me and I do not want to pay $100. >> I I just want to make sure I understand something. When you say you raise a

260
01:24:35.199 --> 01:24:50.239
hobby, that's wonderful. You said it's a business as well. >> I never said business. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, no, no. I absolutely not a business. I mean that's a whole another thing that I mean you can bring that up. I mean so when I say an unnecessary rule, one of the things that

261
01:24:50.239 --> 01:25:07.080
I point that you even pointed out on Facebook was the New Jersey regulations. Like there are so many other agencies that can regulate this stuff. This town did not need to regulate this. You did not need to insert yourself in something that just was unnecessary.

262
01:25:07.360 --> 01:25:22.719
>> And you and you were right to do that and you were very right to do that. selling eggs and the state regulates that for good reason. I mean intuitively I thought well that's >> that and I and honestly I have no problem with that whatsoever there like and listen we have a lot of great places

263
01:25:22.719 --> 01:25:38.159
in town Lombardo Farms and all the rest of them and like they should be subject people should not be just selling them willy-nilly. There's a whole other thing where people can share eggs. Fair enough. Exactly. And I'm on point with you on that. Like the business part of it I completely agree with. I think

264
01:25:38.159 --> 01:25:54.400
that's a zoning issue, but I don't think it should be a law enforcement issue. That's a whole another thing. And then the like there's another thing in there like people can't kill their own bird. Like at the end of the a bird's life, like some people like to kill the bird and eat it. Okay. Like this is a pet

265
01:25:54.400 --> 01:26:14.239
that people eat. Okay. And I know to to some people this is a problematic ethical issue. >> I kind of not I think I agree with you. We allow the raising chicken but

266
01:26:14.239 --> 01:26:29.360
that is so why would we ban somebody having a chicken and then I'm sorry to put you on the spot >> you can change it >> there

267
01:26:29.360 --> 01:26:45.600
as you said >> so that was in the ordinance that was used from another town I guess Yeah, you don't have to get you don't you don't have to you don't have to worry about the double bagging it if it dies and putting it in the garbage either. >> But as Jack's looking that up, I will

268
01:26:45.600 --> 01:27:08.000
say this on road by the way and that was relatively close to the line Jack. Let's just make chicken poops the same setback as >> I think it's greater though. I think it's actually

269
01:27:08.000 --> 01:27:26.560
>> intention was to help to hurt. But in the question that I'm bringing up, the chickens get out of his neighbor's yard. The neighbor wasn't upset about two dogs. And he said, "If my dogs

270
01:27:26.560 --> 01:27:42.880
on my property, am I in trouble?" He said, "I don't know. I don't think so." Like I'm just saying, >> listen, I get I get both sides of this just as you do. And and like this is the difficult job that you have as a mayor. Listen, you had your you were out without electricity providing this town

271
01:27:42.880 --> 01:28:00.320
updates. You did a phenomenal job. >> Yeah. No, but you guys all do a phenomenal job. I got nothing against any of you. But this is one thing where I did feel I needed to come in person and express my opinion about like I'm happy to work with you guys. I'll tell you how to rewrite this law. You're not

272
01:28:00.320 --> 01:28:17.080
actually probably not a good idea. You probably need somebody in the middle. But >> yeah. [laughter] No, but honestly I'm I'm with you. Yeah, exactly. Yeah. >> Thanks, >> Matt. The intent was never

273
01:28:19.360 --> 01:28:33.920
That's why I said I hope this is chicken. Nobody's honestly nobody nobody's coming to your house. Has anybody come? >> That's not That's the That's the point. Like Yes. Exactly. That's the point. Like listen, this is today. How is this

274
01:28:33.920 --> 01:28:51.600
going to be used 10 years from now? is allowed unless the neighbor complains in their liv only complaint I've ever had about chickens going on someone else's property wasn't the complaint about the chickens on his property it was concern

275
01:28:51.600 --> 01:29:07.760
that if his dog killed the chicken was he behind >> and listen I know that family and I know the whole story about that too the person didn't knock on their neighbor's door and talk to them about it like a lot of this a lot of this at the end of the day comes down to the fact that we don't talk to our neighbors anymore. And

276
01:29:07.760 --> 01:29:24.480
that's the bigger problematic issue here like like so you know like that and I know that specific issue. That's the funny part about I know exactly which house you're talking about. I know the family and everything like there's a whole bunch of other stuff that goes back to we as a community just need to

277
01:29:24.480 --> 01:29:41.520
talk to each other. We and we don't need these unnecessary laws. >> Yeah. Exactly. Well, it comes down to not passing unnecessary laws because that that that makes us have to talk to each other. I know you like that, right? As Matt as Matt threw me under the bus, I am a lawyer and a libertarian. So,

278
01:29:41.520 --> 01:30:00.320
>> it was never meant to limit. That's the Lant, you know, the rooster [snorts] going. The irony is I live next to the farm as you probably know. I like the rooster when I hear him in the morning. >> I do too, >> but he doesn't go on all day. >> Yeah. I don't listen, I don't have I

279
01:30:00.320 --> 01:30:17.719
don't have a rooster. And I asked them specifically, but again, I talk to my neighbors. I asked him, "Is it okay if I I'm not going to have a rooster?" And they were happy and I haven't had one, you know. So, you know, again, all these things kind of work together. >> I remember one time a buddy of mine lived up in New York somewhere

280
01:30:18.159 --> 01:30:43.520
and I knew he had enjoy. >> It's just like a It's the same idea. You're not making money. It's it's it's much more than that. >> Exactly. I appreciate that. >> Understood. >> Nobody ever came to your house before.

281
01:30:43.520 --> 01:30:58.639
Nobody's ever come to the house now. But I hear what you're saying. You feel that it's >> exactly >> I don't know how to resolve this. >> I mean, I if Justin wants to send us some ideas. I mean, I know his ideas are no more, but at the end of the day,

282
01:30:58.639 --> 01:31:14.400
>> No, no. I I I'm happy to submit some stuff. >> That's fine. I'll open discussing it. Like I'm not really for limiting the number. You have 75 chickens on the truck. >> Enjoyed what I said. This is the last of who's the >> Well, I was sitting over there smiling, but actually I was a little bit uh stewing actually.

283
01:31:14.400 --> 01:31:30.560
>> I wasn't I wasn't talking. [laughter] >> No, I know. I know exactly what you were getting at. It's all good, man. So, I appreciate all you guys. >> In fact, I'll leave it. I was stunned when I saw I think it was but a couple of town you can't have you can't have a chicken

284
01:31:30.560 --> 01:31:47.840
right town one of them >> outren you can only have chickens if you have one and a half acres >> counts five was the most interesting I thought they had it right but I don't know how you delineate that was based on if you have

285
01:31:47.840 --> 01:32:04.960
a third of an acre you can have four chickens if you have two chickens etc. etc. >> So you also have to look at the time period in which they were made. A lot of them came uh when a lot of people were coming from Sicily. I wanted to have chickens. So there is there's an element of that just for you Italian guys. No,

286
01:32:04.960 --> 01:32:21.280
no, it was an anti-Italian rule. There's a whole thing about it. So anyway, I appreciate you guys. >> I appreciate you coming in and being so respectful. Thank you. >> Any other member of the public in the courtroom? I see nobody.

287
01:32:21.280 --> 01:32:36.000
I'm listening. >> If anybody on Zoom would like to make a public comment, please raise your hand now. >> I don't see anyone else. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Thank you,

288
01:32:36.000 --> 01:32:39.000
>> Mike.

