All meeting minutes posted on the township website are unofficial minutes. Official copies of minutes may be obtained from the township clerk.

Minutes: April 18, 2019

A. OPENING OF REGULAR MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Loveys. This meeting is held pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Adequate notice of the meeting has been provided by posting written notice of the time, date, location, and to the extent known, the agenda of the meeting in Randolph Township. This notice was posted on the bulletin board within Town Hall, it was filed with the Township Clerk, and it was provided to those persons or entities requesting notification. Notice was also provided to the Randolph Reporter and the Morris County Daily Record on November 29, 2018 by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on November 1, 2018. The annual resolution, which included this meeting date, was advertised in the Randolph Reporter, the official newspaper of the Township of Randolph, and the Daily Record on December 6, 2018.

2. Roll Call

PRESENT:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

Also present: Township Manager Mountain, Assemblyman Bucco, Board of Education Vice President Joe Faranetta, and Attorney Ed Buzak from the Buzak Law Group

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Loveys led the Pledge of Allegiance.

B. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS

1. Buddy Poppy Distribution - VFW

Mayor Loveys explained that the Buddy Poppy is a symbol to honor deceased veterans. The Mayor presented a Proclamation to VFW Post 7333 Commander Scott Montanio and read:

BUDDY POPPY DISTRIBUTION MAY 1 THROUGH MAY 30, 2019

WHEREAS, the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has been officially recognized and endorsed by governmental leaders since 1922; and

WHEREAS, VFW Buddy Poppies are assembled by disabled veterans, and the proceeds of this worthy fund-raising campaign are used exclusively for the benefit of disabled and needy veterans, and the widows and orphans of deceased veterans; and

WHEREAS, the basic purpose of the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars is eloquently reflected in the desire to “Honor the Dead by Helping the Living,”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, James B. Loveys, Mayor of the Township of Randolph, do hereby urge the citizens of this community to recognize the merits of this cause by contributing generously to its support through the purchase of Buddy Poppies from May 1 through May 30, 2019, which are symbols of appreciation for the sacrifices of our honored dead.

FURTHER, I urge all patriotic citizens to wear a Buddy Poppy as mute evidence of our gratitude to the men and women of this country who have risked their lives in defense of the freedoms which we continue to enjoy as American citizens.

C. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing no one from the public, the public portion was closed.

D. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

1. Refund Road Opening Cash Bond for the Purpose of Repaving the Driveway at 2 Wooded Hill Lane, Block 149, Lot 7 to Mara Glauberg - $500.00

R-89-19

WHEREAS, the Engineering Department has received a request from Mara Glauberg for the release of a $500.00 cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of repaving the driveway at 2 Wooded Hill Lane, Randolph, NJ 07869 (BL 149/L 7); and

WHEREAS, the Road Opening Bond consisted of a $500.00 cash bond, which was received and deposited with the Finance Department on March 11, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the Applicant was required to post this cash bond to guarantee the repaving of the driveway at 2 Wooded Hill Lane, Randolph, NJ 07869, within the Township Right of Way; and

WHEREAS, the Engineering Department has inspected the road opening work, and found it to be acceptable.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it was recommended by Raffaele Carchia, former Engineering Administrator, that the Cash Road Opening Bond in the amount of $500.00 be refunded to Mara Glauberg at 105 Radtke Road, Randolph, NJ 07869.

2. Refund Summer Day Camp Registration Fee due to Child Being Registered for Incorrect Camp to Dustin Poretskin - $915.00

R-94-19

WHEREAS, Dustin Poretskin registered his child for the Summer Day Camp program and paid the fee of $915.00; and

WHEREAS, his child will not be attending due to registering for the incorrect camp.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Russ Newman, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services that $915.00 be refunded to Dustin Poretskin, 27 Ridgewood Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869.

3. Refund Tree Bond Posted for 105 Radtke Road, Block 149, Lot 7 to Wooded Hill, LLC - $1,200.00

R-95-19

WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Department received a tree bond posted by Wooded Hill, LLC, 105 Radtke Road for Block 149, Lot 7 in the amount of $1,200.00; and

WHEREAS, the requirements have been met and completed.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Darren Carney, Planning and Zoning Administrator that the tree bond in the amount of $1,200.00 be refunded to Wooded Hill, LLC, 105 Radtke Road, Randolph, NJ 07869.

Darren Carney, Planning & Zoning Administrator
Date:

4. Refund Overpayment of Adult Softball League Fee due to Incorrect Amount Being Sent In - Joseph Bosotina - $450.00

R-96-19

WHEREAS, Joseph Bosotina registered his team for the Adult Softball League and paid the fee of $1,400.00; and

WHEREAS, he overpaid for his team’s league fees when the check was written.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Russ Newman, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services that $450.00 be refunded to Joseph Bosotina, 19 Forrest Rd., Randolph, NJ 07869.

5. Refund Tax Sale Certificate for Block 221, Lot 1, 2 Southview Road to TLOA of New Jersey, LLC - $8,953.25

R-97-19

WHEREAS, Tax Sale Certificate #2069 held by TLOA of NJ, LLC., and currently assessed to Hector Rios and known as, Block 221 Lot 1 and also known as 2 Southview Road; and

WHEREAS, the above mentioned Tax Sale Certificate has been redeemed by Hector Rios owner of the property. The redemption includes principal and interest in the amount of $5,246.25 legal foreclosure fees of $1,307.00. There is also a premium due in the amount of $2,400.00.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, acknowledges that the Tax Collector redeem and refund the total amount of $8,953.25 to TLOA of NJ, LLC lien holder of Tax Sale Certificate #2069.

6. Approving the Submission of 2019 Housing Element and Fair Share Plan for Review by NJ Superior Court

R-98-19

WHEREAS, on March 10, 2015, the New Jersey Supreme Court issued its decision in In the Matter of the Adoption of N.J.A.C. 5:96 and 5:97 by the New Jersey Council on Affordable Housing, 221 N.J. 1 (2015) (the “2015 Case”). In that decision, the New Jersey Supreme Court transferred primary jurisdiction over affordable housing matters from the New Jersey Council on Affordable Housing (“COAH”) to the New Jersey Superior Court and established a transitional process for municipalities, like the Township of Randolph, to file declaratory judgment actions seeking to declare their Housing Element and Fair Share Plans (“HEFSP”) as being constitutionally compliant and seeking similar protections to what they would have received if they had continued to proceed before COAH; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:27D-313 and the 2015 Case, the New Jersey Superior Court has the authority to enter an Order granting protection and repose against exclusionary zoning litigation to a municipality that is in compliance with its affordable housing obligations under the Fair Housing Act, N.J.S.A. 52:27D-301, et seq.; and

WHEREAS, on July 2, 2015, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) filed a declaratory judgment action with the New Jersey Superior Court seeking to declare its HEFSP as being constitutionally compliant and seeking protection and repose against exclusionary zoning litigation for a ten (10) year period; and

WHEREAS, the Superior Court of New Jersey has ordered the Township to file a draft, updated HEFSP with all of the supporting information required by law no later than May 1, 2019 including the Township’s justification for its fair share obligation for 1999 to 2025 and any requests for other relief by the Township; and

WHEREAS, the Township’s Planning Consultant, Katherine O’Kane, PP, AICP, has prepared an updated HEFSP dated April 10, 2019 that addresses the Township’s affordable housing obligation and the waivers requested by the Township (“2019 HEFSP”); and

WHEREAS, it is acceptable if the Planning Board does not undertake all of the formal, procedural requirements involved with adopting the 2019 HEFSP if the Planning Board instead adopts a Resolution accepting the 2019 HEFSP and commits to promptly comply with the formal, procedural requirements for the adoption of the 2019 HEFSP if the 2019 HEFSP is approved by the Court; and

WHEREAS, on April 15, 2019, the Planning Board of the Township of Randolph adopted a Resolution accepting the 2019 HEFSP and, if the 2019 HEFSP is approved by the Court, committing to promptly adopt the 2019 HEFSP; and

WHEREAS, a true copy of the Resolution of the Planning Board accepting the 2019 HEFSP is attached hereto; and

WHEREAS, the Governing Body desires to approve the submission of the 2019 HEFSP accepted by the Planning Board to the New Jersey Superior Court.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, they being the Governing Body thereof as follows:

1. The Township hereby approves the submission of the 2019 HEFSP accepted by the Planning Board for review by the New Jersey Superior Court; and
2. The Township hereby commits to endorse the 2019 HEFSP once the Planning Board formally adopts the same after receiving approval from the Court; and
3. The Township reserves the right to amend the 2019 HEFSP, if necessary, after the receipt of any decisions rendered by the New Jersey Superior Court regarding the Township’s affordable housing obligations.
4. The Mayor and Township Clerk, together with all other officers, professionals and employees of the Township are hereby authorized and directed to take any and all steps necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution.
5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.

7. Authorizing the Award of a Professional Services Agreement to Ferriero Engineering Inc. for Engineering Design Services for the Brookside Road Repaving Program - Not to Exceed $32,500

R-99-19

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) requires Engineering Design Services for the Brookside Road Repaving Program; and

WHEREAS, Elizabeth Crescibene, Purchasing Agent, has determined and certified in writing that the value of these services will exceed $17,500; and

WHEREAS, the Township has agreed to retain Ferriero Engineering, Inc. located at PO Box 571, 180 Main St, Chester, NJ 07930 to provide the necessary Engineering Design Services for the Brookside Road Repaving Program for a total amount not to exceed $32,500; and

WHEREAS, the fees are as noted in the attached proposal and will remain as stated for the term of this contract; and

WHEREAS, the term of this contract is until this project is fully completed; and

WHEREAS, the contract with Ferriero Engineering, Inc. is for a total amount not to exceed $32,500 and was not solicited through receipt of sealed bids or competitive contracting, therefore the requirements of N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.5 (Anti Pay-to-Play Legislation) apply; and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the Anti Pay-to-Play Legislation, Ferriero Engineering, Inc. has submitted to the Township the Political Contribution Disclosure Form, Stockholder Disclosure Certification and Business Entity Disclosure Certification as required; and

WHEREAS, Ferriero Engineering, Inc. has also submitted to the Township a New Jersey Business Registration Certificate, as required; and

WHEREAS, there are funds available for the retention of such professional services from account 04-215-55-992-300; and

WHEREAS, said professional services may be retained without competitive bidding pursuant to the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, as follows:

1. The Township hereby hires, employs and retains Ferriero Engineering, Inc. having an office at PO Box 571, 180 Main St, Chester, NJ 07930 to provide Engineering Design Services for the Brookside Road Repaving Program until the project is fully completed.
2. Ferriero Engineering, Inc. shall be compensated for a total contract amount not to exceed $32,500.
3. The contract with said firm is for professional services and exempt from the bidding requirements under the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq.
4. The award is also subject to compliance with the Equal Employment Opportunity Requirements pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27 et seq.
5. The Mayor and Township Clerk, together with all appropriate officers, employees, professionals and staff of the Township, are hereby authorized and directed to take all steps necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution.
6. It is hereby directed that Notice of Award of this Contract shall be published once in the official designated newspaper of the Township within ten (10) days of the date hereof.
7. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: April 18, 2019

As required by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-57, N.J.A.C. 5:30-14.5, and any other applicable requirement, I, Darren Maloney, Director of Finance for the Township of Randolph, have ascertained that funds will be available in the General Capital Fund, Ordinance #09-18,to award a contract to Ferriero Engineering for engineering services for Brookside Road, per his proposal to the township

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Account: 04-215-55-992-300 (not to exceed $32,500)

8. Authorizing Award of a Professional Services Agreement to Ferriero Engineering, Inc. for Engineering Design for the Birchwood Connector Trail, NJDEP Permitting Phase I Project - Not to Exceed $15,800.00

R-100-19

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) requires Engineering Design Services for the Birchwood Connector Trail, NJDEP Permitting Phase 1 project; and

WHEREAS, the Township has agreed to retain Ferriero Engineering, Inc. located at PO Box 571, 180 Main St, Chester, NJ 07930 to provide the necessary Engineering Design Services for the Birchwood Connector Trail, NJDEP Permitting Phase 1 project for a total amount not to exceed $15,800; and

WHEREAS, the fees are as noted in the attached proposal and will remain as stated for the term of this contract; and

WHEREAS, the term of this contract is until the project is fully completed; and

WHEREAS, the contract with Ferriero Engineering, Inc. is for a total amount not to exceed $15,800, was not solicited through receipt of sealed bids or competitive contracting, and the aggregate total amount of all awarded contracts this year to Ferriero Engineering, Inc. exceeds $17,500, therefore the requirements of N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.5 (Anti Pay-to-Play Legislation) apply; and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the Anti Pay-to-Play Legislation, Ferriero Engineering, Inc. has submitted to the Township the Political Contribution Disclosure Form, Stockholder Disclosure Certification and Business Entity Disclosure Certification as required; and

WHEREAS, Ferriero Engineering, Inc. has also submitted to the Township a New Jersey Business Registration Certificate, as required; and

WHEREAS, there are funds available for the retention of such professional services from account 04-215-55-956-311 ($27.50), 04-215-55-961-313 ($3,075.26), 04-215-55-993-307 ($12,697.24); and

WHEREAS, said professional services may be retained without competitive bidding pursuant to the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, as follows:

1. The Township hereby hires, employs and retains Ferriero Engineering, Inc. having an office at PO Box 571, 180 Main St, Chester, NJ 07930 to provide Engineering Design Services for the Birchwood Connector Trail, NJDEP Permitting Phase 1 project until it is fully completed.
2. Ferriero Engineering, Inc. shall be compensated for a total contract amount not to exceed $15,800.
3. The contract with said firm is for professional services and exempt from the bidding requirements under the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq.
4. The award is also subject to compliance with the Equal Employment Opportunity Requirements pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27 et seq.
5. The Mayor and Township Clerk, together with all appropriate officers, employees, professionals and staff of the Township, are hereby authorized and directed to take all steps necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution.
6. It is hereby directed that Notice of Award of this Contract shall be published once in the official designated newspaper of the Township within ten (10) days of the date hereof.
7. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: April 18, 2019

As required by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-57, N.J.A.C. 5:30-14.5, and any other applicable requirement, I, Darren Maloney, Director of Finance for the Township of Randolph, have ascertained that funds will be available in the General Capital Fund, Ordinances #15-13, #16-14 and #10-18, to award a contract to Ferriero Engineering for engineering services for the Birchwood Connector Trail, per his proposal to the township.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 04-215-55-956-311 (not to exceed $27.50)
04-215-55-961-313 (not to exceed $3,075.26)
04-215-55-993-307 (not to exceed $12,697.24)

9. Extending the Contract for a Maintenance Contract with Fire and Safety Services, Ltd. For the Township’s Fire Apparatus for the Period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 at a Maximum Not to Exceed $10,000.00

R-101-19

WHEREAS, bids had been advertised and received on April 28, 2017 in accordance with LPCL for a Maintenance Contract for the Township’s Fire Apparatus from July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 with the option to extend for two one-year periods or one two-year period ending June 30, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on May 18, 2017 via R 128-17 the Township of Randolph awarded a one-year contract to Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. of South Plainfield, NJ from July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 with the option to extend for two one-year periods or one two-year period ending June 30, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on April 5, 2018 via R 92-18 the Township of Randolph extended the contract for the period of July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the prices awarded to Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. of South Plainfield, NJ are
Hourly Rate for Supplemental Services - $114
Hourly Rate for Emergency Service - $134
Cost for pick-up and delivery (per vehicle) from Fire Department locations
to vendor’s facilities - $200
Percentage Above Cost on Parts used 20%

WHEREAS, the Fire Chief, the Public Works Director, and the Purchasing Agent recommend the extension of the contract to Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. of South Plainfield, NJ for the final one year period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 at the rates listed above for the maximum contract amount of $10,000; and

WHEREAS, the Finance Director has certified to the availability of funds from account 01-201-26-315-308.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that the contract with Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. of South Plainfield, NJ for a Maintenance Contract for the Township’s Fire Apparatus for the prices listed above be extended for the final one year period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 for the not to exceed amount of $10,000.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: April 18, 2019

As required by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-57, N.J.A.C. 5:30-14.5, and any other applicable requirement, I, Darren Maloney, Director of Finance for the Township of Randolph, have ascertained that funds will be available in the 2019 Budget, Fleet Management, O&E, to award a contract to Fire and Safety Services for maintaining township fire apparatus, per its response to a township bid solicitation.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 01-201-26-315-308 (not to exceed $5,000)

10. Raffle License, On-Premise 50/50, Foundation for Morristown Medical Center, at the Meadow Wood Manor, 461 Route 10, Randolph on May 4, 2019 from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to approve the Combined Action Resolutions. Deputy Mayor Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

E. BOARD OF EDUCATION PRESENTATION 2019-2020

Mayor Loveys introduced Board of Education (BOE) Vice President Joe Faranetta. He explained that the budget numbers were similar to those in the past; therefore, he was going to talk more about the budget process and the questions surrounding how the board will deal with the loss of state aid. Mr. Faranetta reported the following:

• The budget is discussed in every Finance, Facilities and Transportation (FFT) committee meeting during the year.
• The budget is developed with full administration input; all staff is included.
• They have gone to the 2% cap - tax levy; this translates to a 1.23% increase in property tax.
• Special Services - there is a $400,000 reduction; this is a direct result of the work Walter Curioni has done in bringing students back into the district. The transition house has been a tremendous success; it has helped to keep students in the district through age 21. He felt that this may become a revenue generator in the future since there is room in the facility and with the staff for additional students. The district is receiving interest and accolades from all over the county. This reduction helped to cover the loss of the state aid.
• Randolph Township is comparable to school districts in the area for amount spent per pupil.
• Each year the district reviews its goals.
• Each summer at least 50 curricula are reviewed.
• Social-Emotional Learning - a focus at all of the schools depending on their need.
• Promote Innovation
• Referendum - was an important lever; it is the safety net for what may or may not happen with state aid. It will allow for some of the larger infrastructure projects such as roof replacement at Center Grove School.
• They will continue to purchase buses and keep the fleet fresh; they are doing a lot with propane buses since they are more efficient to run and to maintain.
• Technology - will continue to expand the cameras and security, and continue to work on the PA system and wireless upgrades.

Assemblyman Anthony Bucco expressed his concern about the loss of state aid in Randolph; it is a little over a $760,000.00 loss and it will continue each year. He felt it was not fair to the suburban districts and to Randolph students. Mr. Bucco has already convened meetings in his legislative office which included Mayor Loveys and school district officials to determine how to address this issue moving forward. He felt the community needs to become involved and fight for the funding. He expressed how impressed he was with the transition house, as well as with the recent stigma-free program; he contacted the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown to request those students perform the stigma-free program on stage and invite the rest of the county’s school districts to attend. Mr. Bucco is concerned that if these state aid cuts continue each year, these types of programs will be impacted. He plans to work with the municipality and the school district to be pro-active in determining ways to address this with the state.

Councilwoman Veech asked what could be done since it’s the Governor and the democratic legislature. Assemblyman Bucco stated that it will be an uphill battle; however, people need to get involved and get the word out via letter writing and other avenues regarding the impact of these cuts. He would fully support the community and school district’s efforts to be heard at the state level; not only should the Governor’s office be contacted, but the Department of Education as well.

Deputy Mayor Carey stated that she felt that the Board of Education has done a good job in budgeting and planning for state aid cuts; however, by doing so the district parents may not realize the potential impact which could be the reason that there isn’t the public angry. Assemblyman Bucco stated that the Randolph school district shouldn’t be punished for doing a good job when other school systems, such as Paterson, receive a lot more funding, but don’t have money for even the smallest item.

Mr. Faranetta felt that both the Deputy Mayor and Assemblyman were correct. He explained that next year and the following few years the state aid will be cut by $1,000,000.00. The BOE will move forward planning as if they will receive no state aid; they have to figure out how to do this without damaging the valuable programs they have already built. He agreed that the community needs to get angry and have their concerns heard by the state representatives. Mr. Bucco stated that efforts need to be coordinated to be sure that everyone knows where the impact will be. Mr. Faranetta stated that every lost dollar of state aid will need to be replaced locally. Mr. Bucco added that it will impact both the education and the taxpayer; he attended the Council meeting in order to be proactive with this issue and trying to get the decisions on state aid reversed or make changes to help the school district implement the reductions.

Mr. Faranetta asked Assemblyman Bucco if there was a plan for all the school districts in his legislative district to coordinate efforts to address the cuts to state aid. Mr. Bucco explained that he brought in all the districts that lost a large amount of funding; they are beginning to formulate a plan.

Councilman Forstenhausler commented that the BOE worked hard last year to inform residents about the referendum and to get it passed. He felt that if a similar effort was taken to inform residents of how much state aid was lost for the school district, they might react. He felt that residents are unaware of the amount of funding lost this year and how much will be lost in the coming years. With the BOE absorbing it, there is no impact to residents; taxes are still being increased 2% like before while additional programs and other improvements continue at the schools. It looks like the money wasn’t really needed. Councilman Forstenhausler felt that residents need to be educated about the impact of the lost funding, otherwise they will wonder why they should write a letter or have issue with the state. Mr. Faranetta agreed that it would have to be a focus of their communications. He explained that if the referendum hadn’t passed, some things such as the new roof at Center Grove School would have made a big hit to the budget and caused a large problem. They discussed how the decreased student enrollment has impacted the district, both the staffing and financially.

Mr. Faranetta continued with the following budget information:

• The $75,577,147 is the local tax levy, the 2% increase which is 1.23% property tax increase.
• Capital reserve remains flat.
• State sources - lost $760,000.

There was a brief discussion on the other sources and revenue; however, Mr. Faranetta explained that for a more detailed answer, any questions should be answered by Gerry Eckert.

Mr. Faranetta continued:

• It is a $92M budget.
• It is a reasonably small property tax increase of 1.23% without any material impact to growing the offerings to students and growing the support they provide.

Pat Robinson from the Randolph Reporter asked what the tax increase was per average home in Randolph. Mr. Faranetta was unsure, but he and Mayor Loveys thought it was approximately $100.00.

Mayor Loveys thanked Mr. Faranetta for the information and presentation.

F. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

• Veterans Community Park Construction - the site has been fully cleared and the preliminary grading has been completed. The water infrastructure has been installed and water service is ready in preparation for the completion of plumbing to the various facilities. The septic tank for the rest room facility has been installed and inspected. The field is currently under construction and should be completed within the week. The footings for the rest room facility have been installed and inspected; the foundation is expected to be completed within the week. The elements for the pre-fab restroom facility have been delivered to the site; they will begin to be installed as the final plumbing and electric for the building are completed. The poles have been installed by JCP&L for the electrical service; the wiring is not yet in. The wet weather has been a challenge for the contractor to do the final grading. He is expecting to begin the installation of the band shell, the picnic shelter, and the gazebo in May. Once the final site work is completed, he will begin paving certain areas. Township staff will be meeting with the contractor every other week through the remainder of the project.

Councilwoman Veech asked for clarification on the clearing since they were not supposed to clear the area for the community garden. Manager Mountain replied that they have not cleared that area, but they had to disturb some of it for the water line installation. Once this phase of the project is completed, the Manager will schedule a meeting with the contractor, Councilwoman Veech and other key people to discuss the plan for the garden beds.

• Meadowbrook Water Line Project - the contractor has been making excellent progress. The water main is 100% complete from Rickland to Old Chimney; this is the completion of all the phases for water and sewer, including hydrants and services. The first phase of the curbing is 100% complete from Rickland to Butternut; the last section is part of the project that will be bid this year that will also include the paving for that last section. The restoration of driveways and the top soil restoration are 100% complete on the lake side of the road; the other side of the road is approximately 50% complete, and should be completed by the end of the week.
• Shongum Road and Old Chimney Intersection - has been under construction and is basically completed. The paving will be completed in two passes, the first to level the road. The milling is scheduled for the week of May 6, and is expected to take one week. The paving is scheduled for the week of May 13. Once the final surface is completed, the striping will be done for the entire project area during the summer. The DPW has been doing the inlet work; they have approximately another 10 days before it’s complete.

Mayor Loveys asked for some clarification on the Meadowbrook Road water line project. Manager Mountain clarified for him the various phases of the project and the locations. Mayor Loveys noted that on the paving list, Meadowbrook Road is the 19th road, with paving from Butternut to Drum Hill. He asked what happens from Rickland to Drum Hill. The Manager replied that the base paving will be done for the section up to the piece that is scheduled to be done this year as part of the paving project. There was more clarification on the paving and curbing work.

• New Residents’ Meeting - will be held on May 2nd. The regular Council meeting will start at 5:30 p.m.; the new residents’ meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Court Room. The letters were sent and residents have begun to RSVP; it the number attending is below 50, they will be broken into two groups and brought around the building. The departments that are not located in the municipal building, and the police department, will be set up in the conference rooms and Council chambers. The staff will provide a brief overview of their department. After the tour, there will be a brief question and answer session followed by a small reception. The event should be done no later than 9 p.m.; the school administration was invited as well. For those residents unable to attend, there will be a welcome packet they can pick up at the municipal building.

Councilwoman Veech expressed her concern about having the school administration as part of the tour; she felt residents may ask questions and stay with the schools instead of the intended idea of becoming familiar with the municipal offices. Manager Mountain explained that the school administrators will be given the same amount of time to briefly provide information, and it will be the last stop on the tour. Councilwoman Veech felt that was acceptable. The final agenda and a draft of the power point presentation will be provided by the Manager to the Council within the next week; feedback should be given to the Manager.

G. 2019 MUNICIPAL BUDGET/PUBLIC HEARING ADOPTION

1. R-102-19 Adoption of 2019 Municipal Budget

Manager Mountain recognized Darren Maloney and the township staff for their efforts in creating the budget. He also thanked the Council for their support during the budget process. Manager Mountain highlighted the following:

• The process was guided by a set of questions:
  • Will any element create or compound Randolph’s budget challenges in 2019 and beyond?
  • How does the value of the reduction balance with the expectations on the municipal organization by the public?
  • If the expenditure is deferred for a year, can and will the township catch up in the future?
  • Will this decision make Randolph a stronger community five years from now?
• A very good job has been done over the last several years to keep the operating budget at a relatively slow growth rate.
• The Municipal Budget and Capital Improvement Program total this year is $32,568,204; it represents a 0.85% increase from the adopted 2018 budget.
• There is no increase in the municipal tax rate for 2019; this is the third consecutive year.
• Goals that were achieved:
  • Maintain Randolph’s AAA bond rating.
  • Minimal difference in appropriations from 2018 and 2019.
    • Managed down capital improvements.
    • Salary and wage budget decreased slightly from 2018.
    • Debt service has increased slightly. (It was noted that there was a typographical error in the power point presentation showing a decrease in debt service - this will be corrected)
  • The township has done extremely well with revenue for the last several years.
    • The non-tax revenue areas have remained stable or grow.
    • The tax ratables have grown the last couple of years.
• Shared services:
  • The township is the lead agent on a number of shared services as well as receives or partners with other shared services. All of those arrangements have helped in terms of maintaining costs.
  • Dispatch services from Morris County have provided significant savings to the township.
• In the Morris County per capita tax comparison, Randolph compares favorably to other municipalities. There was a brief discussion on the comparison data.
• An increase in the water rates and a decrease in the sewer rates were recommended and implemented.
• The budget maintains the core level of service in all departments.
• The township is again moving aggressively on infrastructure; there is another large investment in the repair and overlay of roadways.
• The retaining wall project will continue.
• A large lighting project at Brundage Carrell is scheduled and expected to be completed this year.
• The municipal portion of the total property tax is only 15%.

Deputy Mayor Carey felt Manager Mountain provided a thorough summary. She felt it was a solid budget; 15 cents on the dollar for the municipal portion is great for all that the community offers.

Councilman Forstenhausler agreed with the Deputy Mayor. He noted one typographical error in the presentation; the Wildlife Brush Truck should be Wildfire Brush Truck.

Councilwoman Veech commented that she didn’t feel the residents recognized the amount of savings from the various shared services. She suggested that the township continue to look into shared services, as well as grants. There may be some available through the state for the community garden. She was very happy with the budget.

Mayor Loveys thanked Darren Maloney and Manager Mountain; he agreed with the other Council members’ comments.

R-102-19

Be it resolved by the Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris that the budget hereinbefore set forth is hereby adopted and shall constitute an appropriation for the purposes stated of the sums therein set forth as appropriations, and authorization of the amount of:

(a) $19,569,401.00 (Item 2 below) for municipal purposes, and
(b) $0.00 (Item 3 below) for school purposes in Type I School Districts only (N.J.S. 18A:9-2) to be raised by taxation and,
(c) $0.00 (Item 4 below) to be added to the certificate of amount to be raised by taxation for local school purposes in Type II School Districts only (N.J.S. 18A:9-3) and certification to the County Board of Taxation of the following summary of general revenues and appropriations.
(d) $909,198.00 (Sheet 43) Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Levy
(e) $1,507,586.05 (Item 5 below) Minimum Library Levy

It is hereby certified that the within budget is a true copy of the budget finally adopted by resolution of the Governing Body on the 18th day of April, 2019. It is further certified that each item of revenue and appropriation is set forth in the same amount and by the same title as appeared in the 2019 approved budget and all amendments thereto, if any, which have been previously approved by the Director of Local Government Services.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Jim McConnell of 45 Carrell Road realized the effort put forth in creating the budget; as a long-time resident he has seen and heard a lot of budgets. He felt that often politicians are focused on not increasing the budget and raising taxes; however, he felt it is more important to spend the money wisely than to focus on not increasing taxes. Mr. McConnell felt infrastructure should always be a priority.

Seeing no one further from the public, the public portion was closed.

Mayor Loveys replied that the Council does pay attention to where the dollars are spent; he didn’t feel that the present members were solely focused on not increasing taxes. Council members are just more sensitive to the issue since they hear from the residents. The Mayor felt that there has been several years of prudence from the township administration and staff and the Council which has allowed the three years of no tax increases. Mayor Loveys thanked Mr. McConnell for his comments.

Deputy Mayor Carey made a motion to adopt the 2019 Municipal Budget. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

H. UPCOMING EVENTS

1. Clean Communities Day, Saturday, April 27 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Randolph Municipal Building
2. Confidential Document Shredding, Saturday, April 27 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building
3. Little League Opening Day at Freedom Park, Saturday, April 27 at 9:00 a.m.
4. Operation Take-Back, Saturday, April 27 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., at the Acme on Millbrook Avenue and Sussex Turnpike
5. Historical Society of Old Randolph Historic Bus Tour, Saturday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m., departs from the Municipal Building
6. Randolph Rotary Taste of Randolph, Monday, April 29 at 6:00 p.m., at the Mount Freedom Firehouse, Millbrook Avenue
7. May 2nd Council Meeting to begin at 5:30 p.m.
8. New Residents Meeting, Thursday, May 2 at 7:00 p.m., at the Municipal Building - Council meeting to start at 5:30 p.m.
9. Trail Wayfinding and Signage Implementation Day at Freedom Park, Saturday, May 4 at 10:00 a.m. RSVP to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this e-mail address) - rain date May 11
10. Randolph MAC Healthy Body, Healthy Mind Expo on Saturday, May 4 from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Community Center
11. Library Event: Viva Vallenato! on Sunday, May 5 at 2:00 p.m., registration required, 973-895-3556
12. Randolph Community Garden Lecture: Garden to Fork, Monday, May 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Library
13. Gordon Raupp/Kiwanis Fishing Derby, Saturday, May 11 from 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 am Randolph Park, 43 Green Lane
14. 4th Annual “Cissy Laureys” Award and Recognition Ceremony, Monday, May 13 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum
15. Randolph Arts in the Park, Saturday, May 18 from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at the Community Center and Library Complex
16. VFW Memorial Day ceremony, Monday, May 27 at 11:00 a.m. at VFW Post 7333, 103 Carrell Road
17. 4th Annual Mission Gratitude event honoring first responders, Saturday, June 15 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., at Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph, 390 Route 10

I. ORDINANCES: SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING

1. Ordinance No. 06-19 Authorizing the Vacation and Release of a Pedestrian Easement Located on Lots 7.06 and 7.07, Block 93

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE VACATION AND RELEASE OF A PEDESTRIAN EASEMENT LOCATED ON LOTS 7.06 AND 7.07, BLOCK 93 WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is a vacation of an easement that the township no longer needs for a walking trail. The course of the trail was reconfigured due to security concerns after 9/11/01 of the trail being too close to the water tank. The residents asked for the easement to be vacated.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing no one from the public, the public portion was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE VACATION AND RELEASE OF A PEDESTRIAN EASEMENT LOCATED ON LOTS 7.06 AND 7.07, BLOCK 93 WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilwoman Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

J. ORDINANCES: INTRODUCTION

1. Ordinance No. 07-19 Amending Ordinance 05-18 to Provide and Determine the Range of Compensation for Specified Officers and Employees

Manager Mountain explained that this is the annual ordinance establishing the range of compensation for employees that are not part of the teamsters or police contract.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 05-18 TO PROVIDE AND DETERMINE THE RANGE OF COMPENSATION FOR SPECIFIED OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES IN THE TOWNHIP OF RANDOLPH” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

2. Ordinance No. 08-19 Amending Ordinance No. 19-15 and to Provide and Determine the Range of Compensation in Accordance with the Teamsters Collective Bargaining Agreement Effective January 1, 2018

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance covers the Teamsters contract; there are no changes to the minimum and maximum ranges, the only change is to the performance stipend to reflect what was negotiated in the last contract. The performance stipend is going down.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 19-15 AND TO PROVIDE AND DETERMINE THE RANGE OF COMPENSATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TEAMSTERS COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2018 IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

3. Ordinance No. 09-19 Appropriating $558,000 an Authorizing the Issuance of $506,350 Bonds or Notes of the Township for Various Improvements or Purposes Authorized to be Undertaken by the Township of Randolph

Manager Mountain explained that this bond ordinance covers the two pieces of apparatus in the fire department as well as some public works equipment that is scheduled for replacement.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $558,000, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $506,350 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP, FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS OR PURPOSES AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH, IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, NEW JERSEY” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler (Abstain)
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

4. Ordinance No. 10-19 Appropriating $1,035,500 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2019 Capital Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that this the general cash capital ordinance that is covering the majority of the capital improvement projects for the year including the police department, parks department, rescue squad and municipal improvement projects.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,035,500 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2019 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

5. Ordinance No. 11-19 Appropriating $415,000 from the Recreation/Open Space Trust Fund for Various 2019 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that this is the cash ordinance funding the Parks and Recreation capital improvements; these items were all part of the capital budget for this year, and part of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommendations.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $415,000 FROM THE RECREATION/OPEN SPACE TRUST FUND FOR VARIOUS 2019 PARKS AND RECREATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Deputy Mayor Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

6. Ordinance No. 12-19 Appropriating $260,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for 2019 Water/Sewer Capital Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that this is the cash ordinance that funds the three projects recommended as part of this year’s water and sewer capital improvements.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $260,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2019 WATER/SEWER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Nisivoccia made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Deputy Mayor Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

7. Ordinance No. 13-19 Appropriating $340,000 including $122,500 from the General Capital Improvement Fund and $217,500 due from a New Jersey Department of Transportation Grant for Improvements to Brookside Road

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides the funding for Brookside Road improvements; it includes the funding from the township as well as the anticipated funding from the state.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $340,000, INCLUDING $122,500 FROM THE GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND AND $217,500 DUE FROM A NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION GRANT FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO BROOKSIDE ROAD” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilwoman Potter made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

8. Ordinance No. 14-19 Appropriating $1,200,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2019 Road Overlay Program

Manager Mountain explained that this is a cash ordinance funding the roads scheduled for repaving this year under the overlay program.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,200,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE 2019 ROAD OVERLAY PROGRAM” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

BE IT RESOLVED, that said Ordinance shall be further considered for final passage at the meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Randolph on the 2nd of May 2019 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening, prevailing time, at the Municipal Building in said Township, at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk be authorized and directed to advertise said Ordinance in full or by summary with the notice of introduction thereof, in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilwoman Veech commented that the road overlay program is something that the residents see and for which they get their money’s worth.

Mayor Loveys commented that the evaluation process is not an exact science, but that he was confident that the roads listed were definitely in need of repair.

Councilman Forstenhausler commented that a few years ago the funding for the road overlay program was increased to $1,000,000. He stated that the residents do notice the roads, and they deserve to have the roads repaved on a regular basis. He felt the township does a good job funding the program and he is very pleased that it is funded with cash.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilwoman Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

Mayor Loveys added that he has received some complaints from residents who travel on Shongum Road; there are a couple of areas on Shongum Road that are actually in Denville, and they will be paving those this year.

K. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing no one from the public, the public portion was closed.

L. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilman Forstenhausler attended the Safety Committee meeting where they discuss all the accidents, injuries, and incidents with a goal to limit preventable events in the future; the discussion went well.

Councilman Forstenhausler attended the Morris County League of Municipalities meeting with Councilwoman Veech and Councilman Tkacs. There was a presentation about the need for a new Morris County Courthouse; the assignment judge and the Sheriff spoke. The current historic building was built in 1827; it is very limited in what can be done to improve it. The last addition was built in 1970.

Councilman Tkacs attended the Board of Health meeting on behalf of Councilman Nisivoccia. Three items were discussed: the marijuana bill did not pass the legislation, there is a bill proposed to tighten the loopholes for mandatory vaccinations for which the Randolph Board of Health is going to write a supporting letter, and there is new legislation proposed for right to die.

Councilman Tkacs attended the Planning Board meeting. A resolution was passed thanking Mike Guadagno for his 15 years as a Planning Board member. There was also a resolution passed for Sal Campo to build two homes on Quail Run where the fairway was supposed to be.

Councilman Tkacs also attended the Morris County League of Municipalities meeting.

Councilwoman Veech added that Morris County is looking for approximately $106,000,000 between budget years 2018 and 2029 to renovate the Courthouse complex. The courts generate about $171,000,000 in revenue yearly. She explained that there are safety issues with the current Courthouse, and it’s also not ADA compliant. Councilwoman Veech had a copy of the County’s presentation and asked Donna Luciani to make copies of the handout for the other Council members.

Councilwoman Veech attended the Trails Committee meeting; there was a study done on the trail head kiosks. There are some issues with them and they need to be updated. She gave a document to Manager Mountain that contained their observations. Councilwoman Veech also reported that there will be a trail blazing on May 4th. Greener by Design will be installing posts and volunteers will help with the project. If anyone is interested in volunteering, they can sign up. It was also reported at the Trails Committee meeting that there were 52 deer taken in the parks this year during the deer hunt; there were four does for every buck, which is a good ratio in terms of reproduction. The deer hunt numbers for private property will be available in June.

Councilwoman Veech reported that she and a few other Council members attended the Chamber of Commerce Luncheon.

Councilwoman Veech reported that there are about 90 garden plots reserved in the Community Garden; there are 168 plots total. In June the registration will open up for those wanting a second plot. There is a handbook for the garden if a resident wishes to have one; they also must sign a participation and registration agreement which explains the requirements of the gardener. Councilwoman Veech reported that Deputy Mayor Carey attended the last Community Garden meeting in her place while she was on vacation.

Councilwoman Veech reported that the Parks Committee meeting was cancelled due to the lack of a quorum.

Deputy Mayor Carey reported that she attended the Community Garden meeting; she was impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm of the members. She added to the information Councilwoman Veech reported by noting that there was some confusion with registering online since the Community Pass system was used and people had to accept the sports code of conduct prior to registering. They have gotten emails from Girl Scout troops who want to do a butterfly garden, and from other residents who do not want a plot, but want to volunteer. On May 6 there will be a presentation at the library, “Garden to Fork.” They are encouraging those who have registered to attend the program. Boy and girl scout troops are looking into volunteer opportunities. There was a discussion at the garden meeting on the park construction as well as the amount of tools to purchase. They are trying to spread the word about the garden through a presence at various community events.

Deputy Mayor Carey reported that she and many of the Council members supported the schools by attending the PTO fundraiser, “All In.”

Deputy Mayor Carey reported that she and all of the Council members attended the Ironia Fire Company’s Pancake Breakfast.

Deputy Mayor Carey attended the County College of Morris’ Legislative and Community Relations Breakfast. She felt that Dr. Iacono is a great ambassador for the college. There were approximately 100 people in attendance, and it was a very good and well-run event.

Deputy Mayor Carey attended the Parks and Recreation Committee meeting; the bench dedications are May 15th at the museum and at Heistein Park. The trail blazing will take place on May 4th; they expect it to only take one day. The Little League Opening Day will be held on April 27th. There was a discussion about the park ordinances. The committee will meet with Russ Newman to review the ordinances to determine if they include information on the parks and who and how they can use them. Manager Mountain added that they want to make sure that all the ordinances are reflecting current practices. They don’t want the police to go out and respond to a complaint if it isn’t a violation of an ordinance. Registrations for sports programs are on track, except for the Teen Travel Camp and spring tennis lessons. Since the Teen Travel Camp only had 57 registrations compared to 80 at the same time last year, they opened it up to other towns; they have also checked with previous attendees to see if there was a problem, but no one reported anything. The spring tennis lessons have a waiting list of 74 people; last year at this time there were two people on the waiting list.

Mayor Loveys commented that the kiosks at the trail heads are missing the maps. Councilwoman Veech replied that the Trails Committee is aware of that, and it is one of the issues that she was referring to in her report. Mayor Loveys noted that former Township Manager John Lovell used to drive around and fill the kiosks with the maps, but he felt that now that there is a Trails Committee, they may want to do it. Councilwoman Veech explained that at the Trails Committee meeting they discussed taking out all the information currently at the kiosks and determining specific items to put at each of them. The items they felt would be appropriate are a map, a QR code that linked to a map, and information on bears and coyotes; the Trails Committee and Parks and Recreation Department would keep the items current. Russ Newman wasn’t at the meeting, so they weren’t able to work out all the details. Manager Mountain added that the trail maps are being updated, and that is why they were out of stock at the kiosks. Mayor Loveys felt that posting a sign at the kiosks indicating that the maps are being updated and more will be printed, it would be helpful.

Mayor Loveys attended the Randolph Reminisces program at the museum. Mr. Henry Holden, author and aviation historian, presented a continuation of his previous talk on women in aviation. The Mayor encouraged others to attend upcoming Randolph Reminisces programs at the museum. Councilman Nisivoccia added that Mr. Holden has published over 100 articles on aviation.

M. EXECUTIVE SESSION

WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231, P.L. 1975 (N.J.S.A. 10:4-12) permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting under certain circumstances; and

WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, and State of New Jersey, as follows:

1. The public shall be excluded from the Executive portion of the meeting.

2. The general nature of the subject matter to be discussed is as follows:

* Manager’s Compensation

3. As nearly as now can be ascertained, the matter or matters to be discussed at this time will be disclosed to the public at such time and under such circumstances as are prescribed by law.

4. At the conclusion of the Executive Session, the Council may or may not reconvene in public session for the purpose of taking formal action.

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to move into Executive Session at 9:20 p.m. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

Deputy Mayor Carey made a motion to close the Executive Session at 10:10 p.m. Councilwoman Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

N. ADJOURNMENT

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:10 p.m. Councilwoman Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None