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

Minutes: April 22, 2021

A. OPENING OF REGULAR MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Mayor Forstenhausler. This meeting is held pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Adequate and electronic 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, on the main entrance doors to 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 December 2, 2020, by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on November 12, 2020. 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 10, 2020. The amended annual resolution was adopted by the Council on January 21, 2021 and notice was provided by email to the Randolph Reporter, the Morris County Daily Record and TapInto Randolph on January 22, 2021. The amended annual resolution which included this meeting date was advertised in the Randolph Reporter, the official newspaper of Randolph Township and the Morris County Daily Record on January 28, 2021.

2. Roll Call

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

Also present: Township Manager Mountain, Township Chief Financial Officer Darren Maloney and Attorney Ed Buzak from the Buzak Law Group (via Zoom).

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Forstenhausler led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Forstenhausler read a brief statement from the Diversity Inclusion Steering Committee (DISC) into the record:

The goal of the DISC is to generate a thorough and in-depth report. We take this charge seriously and continue to work towards completing this report at the end of the summer. Most recently, a survey was released to students, parents, and staff of the Randolph Township School District. Our next survey is geared towards all members of the Randolph community. It is vital for us to hear from our entire community in order to create this comprehensive report. Once complete, the report will be submitted to the Township Council, Board of Education, and the community.

B. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Council is now open to the public. If you plan to address the Township Council please bear in mind that you will be asked to limit your comments to six minutes. Should you reach the five-minute mark, you will be advised that you have one minute remaining. If you go past the six-minute mark, your microphone will be muted.

Meredith Ross of 40 Misty Mountain Road thanked the Township Council on behalf of the Randolph Partnership Endeavor for All Citizens’ Equality (PEACE) for recognizing April as Diversity Month. In that vein, she wanted to propose a resolution.

She shared that she is the founder of Randolph PEACE; a group that was created out of a need to drive community-led efforts to support Randolph’s rapidly evolving diverse community and improve inclusion efforts. PEACE reflects diversity in race, ethnicity, religions, and gender, as well as those with family members in special education of varying abilities and neurodiversity. The group meets regularly; meetings are open and anyone can join. The group functions with full transparency with a visible and known leadership team representing many aspects of Randolph’s diverse community.

She shared that in just six months, PEACE has led a diversity and inclusion book drive for the Randolph library so children can see themselves in a book, and be exposed to others different from themselves. To date, over 250 books have been donated through the drive.

She shared that the group has partnered with the DISC from the very beginning to encourage and provide participants for the town halls. They have demonstrated support for community members who are experiencing or were experiencing issues with systemic racism or bias incidents in our community. People have reached out to the group directly to share their concerns, and continue to do so. She stated that that Randolph PEACE has provided resources and training to the schools, as well as networked and provided resources to promote diversity in hiring in the schools.

She stated that Randolph PEACE applauded the efforts of the DISC to try to eliminate the impact of bias and racism in the community. However, the group felt it was time to move forward aggressively without impediment and not wait for the outcome of a survey. The survey can help fuel the direction for an outside committee, which is empowered to move across the spectrum of community and school issues. She commented that a single committee with community members could move the community forward without impediment.

Randolph PEACE brought forward a resolution with partners - Randolph African American Community Experience, Randolph Indian Association, Rabbis Moshe Rudin of Adath Shalom, Rabbi Menashe East of Mt Freedom Jewish Center, Moshe Vaknin, Head of School for Gottesman RTW Academy, and Resurrection Church to name just a few organizations supporting the endeavor.

She hoped the council would consider that the path of progress is only possible with a path of action. She read the endorsement for the PEACE’s proposed resolution:

Dear Mayor Forstenhausler and the Members of the Town Council:

On behalf of Randolph PEACE (Partnership Endeavor for All Citizens’ Equality), we are presenting a resolution to support a diverse and inclusive Randolph community. Randolph PEACE believes that issues of racism and bias are not issues that can only be addressed in the short term, but rather they require an ongoing process that may take years to address and eliminate. While the DISC has taken on a very bold mission, we feel that a permanent committee made up of members of the community should be established to tackle these ongoing initiatives and to deal with new issues that may arise in the future.

This resolution and proposal were developed based on nine months of gathering input from members of the community multiple ethnicities, races, cultures, religions, gender status, ability, and neurodiversity, on issues regarding racism and bias experienced in Randolph. Thus, Randolph PEACE has proposed a Six Point Plan to address diversity initiatives in the Township, as well as on the Board of Education level.

We anticipate presenting this resolution to the Board of Education, as these issues occur in both the Township as well as in the School District. It should be noted that we are not seeking to eliminate the DISC, but rather we are adding a community led effort with a more permanent outlook. It also establishes an action plan that could be readily carried out by the DISC, the Township and/or the Board of Education. Finally, this resolution is not only important to the over 100 members of Randolph PEACE, which is a diverse group representing the various communities within Randolph, but also the community organizations listed below that have endorsed this resolution as well.

Thank you for your time and attention today.

Sincerely,
Randolph PEACE

Robert Soni of 6 Brookview Circle read the PEACE’s proposed resolution for the record:

Resolution to Support a Diverse and Inclusive Randolph Community

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of Randolph Township as well as Board of Education of the Randolph desire to foster a diverse and inclusive community through the adoption of key recommendations creating a Diverse and Inclusive Randolph for moving forward the efforts of the jointly created ’Diversity and Inclusion Steering’ committee, aka “DISC.”

WHEREAS, the mission of the DISC is to work towards the goal of eliminating acts of bias based on race, color, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation or ethnicity in Randolph Township by understanding the causes and identifying solutions.

WHEREAS, we seek to make recommendations to educate and train individuals, groups, organizations, institutions and businesses in order to interrupt and eradicate racism, bigotry and prejudice in Randolph Township

WHEREAS, the key recommendations for a Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee would be in the following key areas of focus: including (1) the examination of diverse hiring practices with an intentional focus to recruit and retain educators and police officers and first responders of diverse backgrounds, (2) the creation of a permanent community advisory committee hereby referred to as the Diversity Equity and Inclusion committee and/or the “permanent DEI” who are appointed by the DISC, (3) the conclusion of a community, as well as school district “pulse-point” surveys, which could also ’seed’ key recommendations for the permanent DEI, and (4) the establishment of methods and procedures to recruit and retain diverse community members to serve on key community/township committees, and also (5) to liaison with Board of Education committees, as well as ad-hoc committees, created by the school district. (6) Finally associated with this effort would be a uniform effort to train/educate and inspire township and district employees to become aware of their community member’s diverse needs and interests. Collectively these six points form the establishment of a “Six Point Plan” or the “Plan.”

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of Randolph township as well as the Board of Education for Randolph recognize the need to endorse and to move forward the key recommendations of community members and the DISC, this resolution provides the opportunity to advance key initiatives and proposal related to what is desired overall by the community, and to reflect on the time spent in meetings in collaboration with the Human Resources Commission of Morris County, as well as joint discussions between the Randolph Board of Education, the Randolph Town Council, and both Township and District Employees.

WHEREAS, the purpose of the Resolution is to increase the degree of consistency among plans between the Township and the Board of Education and to provide strong endorsement for the overall Six Point Plan.

WHEREAS, there is recognition that programs launched by either the Township or Board of Education potentially imply financial and fiduciary decisions, that this endorsement resolution and creation of this plan may require judicious choice of resources, the endorsement jointly by both groups suggests that there is widespread support in both Randolph Township and the Randolph School District to be able to move forward on this resolution.

WHEREAS, Point 1 of the Plan must be achieved based on the establishment and recognition that hiring persons of color and of diverse backgrounds is important towards ensuring the mission of the DISC can be achieved.

WHEREAS, Point 2 of the Plan must move forward in recognition that achieving a diverse and inclusive community is not a temporary goal, but is a permanent goal. And, that a permanent DEI of committed community leaders and stakeholders can move forward effectively without political pressure or impediment.

WHEREAS, Point 3 of the Plan recognizes that there is a need to continue to acquire data and understanding of the community at large and to resolve what is/was the mission of DISC to complete their analysis on the pervasiveness of systemic racism in our community.

WHEREAS, Point 4 of the Plan recognizes the need to include diverse inputs from the community in the planning of our community. This includes both the growth and mentorship of these committee members to become engaged and involved in the development of our community.

WHEREAS, Point 5 of the Plan recognizes that committees in the Board of Education, as well as ’ad-hoc’ committees created by the district, need to go out of their way to recruit, engage and involve those of diverse interests.

WHEREAS, Point 6 of the Plan recognizes the incredible effort to ensure that individuals who are employed by the community and district are trained in such a manner to interrupt and eradicate racism, bigotry, bias, and prejudice in Randolph Township which is consistent with the mission/vision of DISC.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Council of Randolph Township and the Board of Education of Randolph hereby approves and adopts the following:

Randolph Township Council and the Board of Education of Randolph establishes an appointed permanent Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee consisting of between 5 and 10 members with at least 50% of the members identified as persons of color, with a Self s nominated/elected chairperson and vice-chair person, and with all committee members serving overlapping 1 year and 3 year terms (the “Permanent Committee”):

• The Permanent Committee shall also report to the Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee regularly on the status of the adoption of the Six Point Plan.
• The Permanent Committee shall be entitled to call to its assistance any personnel of any municipal department or school district department or consultant thereto as it may require in order to perform its duties.
• The Permanent Committee is established for the purpose of guiding the plan endorsement process for the municipality and the school district. Serving as the liaison with local officials throughout the plan endorsement process; Assisting the municipality and school district in the meeting the deadlines of plan endorsement;
• Take the lead on completing the continuous self-assessment of progress and submitting the required architects to the Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee;
• Helping to facilitate community visioning as described as consistent with the Six Point Plan;
• Reporting the findings and conclusions of the self-assessment and community visioning to the community at large on a regular basis; and
• Facilitating completion of the Action Plan items in order to achieve endorsement of the community at large and enjoy the benefits available to the municipality as a result of the endorsed plan.

THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of Randolph Township shall transmit a copy of this resolution and the notice as required to the Board of Education of Randolph.

Christian Ahrens of 10 Evergreen Lane shared that he is a college student who just returned from a two-year missionary trip for the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints. He wanted to speak to express his gratitude to the town, highlight the presence of his religious organization in Randolph, and provide an example of the good that religious organizations do in the community, including faiths different from his own.

He commented that he was grateful for his time in Randolph and shared the impact Randolph High School had on him in his preparation for his college career. He provided background on his missionary service experience. He shared an experience that highlighted the powerful impact that faith could have on people and the different circumstances that they face.

Hazel Ball of 236 Dover Chester Road shared her support for the 6-point plan proposed by Randolph PEACE.

Tessa Schultz of 57 South Road shared her support for the resolution proposed by Randolph PEACE. She stated that the resolution was very important. She explained that there were many members of Randolph PEACE and many different community groups joining the meeting today to show their support for the resolution. She stated that it was disappointing that no community members or people of color were included on the DISC when it was formed. She commented that it was a misstep. She believes that there is an opportunity to include townspeople on a permanent committee that can come up with a plan as the DISC has not released theirs after nine months of work. This would be an ongoing committee, and address things as they come up; she commented that this was not a stagnant issue. She explained that other towns surrounding Randolph have established permanent committees. She stated that the town needs to embrace a more inclusive and permanent committee and adopt the 6-point plan.

Richard Mariano of 6 Shaker Mill Road stated that he has not seen a person of color or a female on the police force. He shared that he did not see a person of color or a female working at the DPW during an incident which took place two years ago at the facility. He stated that no exceptions were made for him as an elderly person wanting to work in the town.

He referenced a Chapter 63 Noise Control Ordinance from the Borough of Rutherford which prohibited any kind of operations on a Sunday as it is a day of rest. He complained about the level of noise that was coming from a neighboring property last Sunday and stated that the Police could not do anything because the decibel level was not breached. He asked why the township did not have an ordinance where commercial operations could not be performed on a Sunday.

Mayor Forstenhausler explained that there is an ordinance already in existence in Randolph. Mr. Mariano interrupted and continued to express his concerns.

Clerk Luciani informed Mr. Mariano that he had one more minute to speak.

Mr. Mariano expressed his frustration with the NJ Governor, the incident at the DPW, and staff diversity. He demanded that they name a person of color or female working within the police department.

Manager Mountain informed Mr. Mariano that this was not a debate. Mr. Mariano expressed his frustrations with commercial operations on Sundays.

Clerk Luciani informed Mr. Mariano that his six minutes were up and that he has been muted.

Jennifer Halpern of 6 Laurel Hill Drive shared that she has been a resident of Randolph for 23 years and that both of her children have gone through the Randolph school system. She has seen many positives and many challenges in town. She believed in a collaborative and progressive process through community effort and shared that she supported the resolution proposed by Randolph PEACE.

Valencia Hutchinson of 21 William Street shared that she supported the proposed resolution. As an educator, she knows of the importance of children seeing a representation of themselves at higher levels. She was supporting the resolution so that children can see diversity in higher levels of the community.

Rebecca Fisher of 24 Chelsea Drive shared that she has been a resident since 2009. She has four children in the Randolph school system. She commented that since her family’s move to Randolph she has experienced many positives and many wonderful people. She shared that since PEACE has been established many more positives have been added to her family’s educational growth. She is understanding how to be an ally for all human beings. She supported the resolution read by Robert Soni. She wanted to make sure that as the community moves forward the town has people in positions where everyone can look up to them, relate to them, and see themselves in those individuals.

Theresa Maughan of 21 Radtke Road stated that she supported the resolution proposed by the Randolph PEACE. She is an educator and has children in the Randolph school system. Through her experiences, she has been concerned as a mother and educator. She stated that Randolph was a good place to live, but she felt like the town could do more in terms of diverse representation.

Alex Devleeschouwer of 5 Darlene Court shared her support for the resolution proposed by Randolph PEACE.

Angelica Rochat of 1062 Sussex Turnpike stated that she loved her experience as a resident of Randolph. She spoke in support of the resolution proposed by Randolph PEACE. She explained that the resolutions were important to herself and other members of the community. She commented that it would be a great next step to take.

Shellie Carter of 53 Carrell Road stated that she supported the resolution presented by Robert Soni. She has lived in the community since 1982 and shared that she did not enjoy her experiences at the middle school and high school, however, she loved the town. She stated that her family has had many positive and negative experiences in the community. As a guardian of a child, it was important to her that the town continues to grow and evolve, and that every step possible is taken to make things better for the whole community.

C. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

COVID-19 Update - The number of reported COVID cases in Randolph has finally begun to trend downward. Since the council’s last regular meeting, 121 new cases have been reported, including 11 new confirmed cases today. Six of the 11 new cases today are several weeks old and are showing up in current figures due to a lab being delinquent in their reporting. The township’s total number of cases is now up to 1,936. Cases in recent weeks are in the younger demographic, suggesting the vaccine administration is having a positive impact. He reminded everyone of the importance of social distancing, mask wearing, and adherence to travel and gathering restrictions.

COVID-19 Vaccination Rollout - As of today over 2.63 million people have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19 in New Jersey, including over 140,000 in Morris County. Eligibility for a COVID vaccination now includes all individuals in the State of New Jersey over the age of 16. The state has been able to keep up with the expanded eligibility criteria in thanks to vaccination supplies continuing to increase. Information on obtaining a vaccination can be found on the township, county and state websites or by calling the state COVID hotline number. The Randolph “COVID Angels” volunteer group also continues to provide assistance to anyone in the community seeking a vaccination appointment. Information on how to secure help from the “COVID Angels” can be found on the township website or by calling the Township Health Department.

Tree Removal Plan - As reported to the council during the budget review process, the township has developed a plan for assessing the condition of trees in town right of ways (specifically Ash Trees) and prioritizing the removal of these trees. In 2020 the efforts of the DPW, the town’s tree removal contractor, and JCP&L’s tree removal contractor lead to over 300 dead trees being removed from Township right of ways. Despite this progress, the database that has been assembled contains another 300 plus trees that have been assessed as dying, dead or dead and hazardous. These are trees that were planted in the ROW by developers when subdivisions were built and form the character of those particular neighborhoods.

In several cases the trees that line these streets are Ash trees and they are dying. The town has established a corresponding plan for these streets where DPW will be sending in a separate crew to focus specifically on the removal of these trees on a scheduled basis. The information would be communicated to the neighborhoods as well. The township will be replacing the trees removed on a lower density ratio in the fall to lessen the visual impact of the tree removal. This element of the plan is being closely coordinated between Engineering/Planning and DPW. This is an enormous undertaking and it is going to take a couple of years to get through the most intense demand for the work. It is anticipated that over the next two years the town will have completed the majority of the most needed tree removal and return to a more normal maintenance mode. He informed that public that any calls regarding trees should be referred to the Engineering Department. Utilizing the database, which is constantly being updated, the department can determine the status of a tree and confirm a general timeframe for its removal.

Weekend Clean-Up Events - The Clean Communities Day event is on for Saturday, however, it is being handled differently this year due to COVID restrictions. There will be no ceremony/gathering of the groups at the municipal building. Groups have all been encouraged to pick up their materials in advance of Saturday and assemble directly at their assigned field location.

The Spring Shredding Day event is also scheduled for Saturday morning as is Operation Drug Take Back Collection. The Shredding Day event is at the municipal building and the Drug Take Back Collection is at the ACME parking lot in Mount Freedom.

This weekend is the first annual Community-Wide Garage Sale. Close to 200 properties signed up for this event. Information on where the garage sales are located can be found on the township website. With the Bulk Waste Collection scheduled for next week the hope is that any remaining unsold items find their way into this curbside collection service.

D. 2021 MUNICIPAL BUDGET/PUBLIC HEARING ADOPTION

1. Municipal Budget Presentation

Manager Mountain stated that the preparation of this year’s budget was like everything else in the last year, an extraordinary challenge. The COVID-19 Pandemic and its associated impacts affected nearly every part of our municipal operation in 2020 and these impacts had to be accounted for in this year’s budget. In spite of the many obstacles we had to overcome, we were able to produce a structurally balanced and responsible budget which addresses all of the core needs of the community. Manger Mountain explained that in assembling the 2021 Budget there are 4 critical questions to consider:

• Will any element of the proposed budget create or compound challenges in 2021 and beyond?
• How are reductions to the budget’s bottom line balanced with expectations on the municipal organization by the public?
• How will actions to defer expenditure impact the following year’s budget and will the Township be able to catch up in the future?
• Will the decisions that shape this year’s budget make Randolph a stronger community five years from now?

Manager Mountain reviewed the following 2021 budget details:

• Municipal Budget and Capital Improvement Program total $32,318,857. This represents a 0.74% decrease or $240,602 reduction from the adopted 2020 budget.
• The tax rate for the Municipal Budget and Open Space/Recreation tax are proposed to remain at the same level as in 2020.
• No increase in the municipal tax rate for 2021. This marks the fifth consecutive municipal budget to be adopted without an increase on the municipal tax rate.
• The 2021 Budget again does not exceed the 2 percent tax levy cap. The Township ended 2020 with a fund balance of $7,679,368 and we project that this budget will regenerate a similar if not greater fund balance by the end of 2021.

The Budget achieves all of the goals set at the outset of the process:

• Maintain or enhance services while maintaining existing staffing levels.
• Minimize impact on the municipal tax rate.
• Continue aggressive investment in support of the community’s physical infrastructure.
• Manage use of surplus in support of budget towards non-recurring expenditures.
• Maintain Randolph’s “AAA” Bond Rating.

2021 Budget Appropriations:

Percentage of Township Budget for Expenditures:

• Debt Service 2.73%
• Municipal Library 3.33%
• Capital 7.16%
• Community Programs 7.50%
• Statutory and Other Charges 8.02%
• Reserve for Uncollected Taxes 8.73%
• Insurance 14.40%
• Public Works 14.51%
• General Government 15.12%
• Public Safety 18.50%

2021 Revenues:

Percentage Sources of Revenues:

• Receipt Delinquent Taxes 1.70%
• State Aid 5.71%
• Miscellaneous Revenues 9.88%
• Surplus 17.22%
• Property Tax (Primary Source of Budget) 65.49%

Shared Services that the Township provides:

• Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council Lead Agency
• Health Services to Roxbury Township and Rockaway Borough
• Animal Control Services to Dover, Rockaway Borough, Mendham Township and Mendham Borough

Shared Services that the Township receives:

• Construction Services from Roxbury Township
• 911 Dispatch Services from Morris County
• Recycling Disposal Services from Morris County
• Sewer Treatment from the Rockaway Valley Regional Sewerage Authority (RVRSA) and the Morris Township Butterworth Sewer Treatment Plan

Shared Services that the Township has partnerships with:

• Public Works Maintenance Facility with Randolph BOE
• Computer Services with the Randolph BOE
• Land Acquisition with the Randolph BOE
• Athletic Facilities with the Randolph BOE
• Insurance with Morris JIF/HIF
• Energy Aggregation with NJSEM
• Purchase of Public Works Equipment with Multiple Towns
• Mutual Aid - Emergency Services with Multiple Towns

2021 Water and Sewer Budget:

• 2021 Water Budget totals $3,888,927
• 2021 Sewer Budget totals $4,045,409
• Combined Water & Sewer budget totals $7,934,336, a 12.57% decrease from the 2020 budget.
• An analysis of the two funds at the end of 2020 found both to be in good financial order.

The water utility’s spending plan for 2021 is conservative, in order to allow the utility’s fund balance to regenerate from the rate restructuring approved in 2019. This year in addition to regular operational activities, the Department will be continuing efforts to aggressively replace meters, fire hydrants and valves with the long standing goal of limiting water loss in the system.

The sewer utility budget contains funding for several capital initiatives above and beyond regular operational costs, including the purchase of a Farm/Arnold Road area sewer service extension, and the replacement of aging pump stations.

The water and sewer utility spending plan for 2021 remains conservative. The two funds are in good financial order.

Services and Improvement Highlights:

The 2021 Budget provides funding for:

• The maintenance of core service levels in all departments.
• Funding for library and emergency service activities.
• Implementation of the Parks & Recreation and Trails Master Plans.
• Funding for essential public works, health and senior and social service activities.
• Capital Funding for infrastructure/vehicles & equipment including: Purchase of Body Worn Cameras and Conductive Energy Devices for the Police Department
• Funding of critical Fire Department personal protective gear and replacement of fire hose.
• Repairs and improvements to municipal facilities
• Continued investment in the Retaining Wall Replacement and Road Resurfacing Program.
• Funding for Tree removal and replacement (ash tree infestation)
• Improvements to stormwater management facilities.
• Replacement of Police & Public Works Vehicles and Equipment

Manager Mountain recognized the hard work and dedication exhibited by the township staff, the Township Council, and the Township CFO Darren Maloney during the budget process. He reminded the council that this was Darren Maloney’s last budget with Randolph Township, as he would be retiring in October of 2021. During CFO Maloney’s tenure, the township kept its AAA bond rating and had 0% tax increases while maintaining a healthy surplus fund. He stated that CFO Maloney would be missed. Manager Mountain wished him a long and healthy retirement.

Mayor Forstenhausler echoed Manager Mountain’s sentiments. He thanked the entire organization for their work throughout the budget process. Each year the council discusses the budget with Manager Mountain and Darren Maloney; the council’s goal for the last several years has been to try their best to minimize tax impact to residents and to keep the tax rate leveled, which they have accomplished for 5 consecutive years.

Councilman Loveys shared his support for the municipal budget and capital improvement program as it was introduced on March 18. He was appreciative of the foresight and leadership that corresponded with the prudent fiscal approach that was taken throughout all of last year.

He was appreciative of the leadership exhibited by Manager Mountain, Darren Maloney, and the Township Department Heads, and the work of the township staff that kept operations going through the challenges of last year. He thanked everyone for the sacrifices they made last year. He stated that the township would hopefully be heading into a stronger year from a revenue standpoint as normalcy continued to return. He believed that great things would be seen as a result of the fiscal improvements. He stated that Darren Maloney would be missed and wished him all the best.

Councilman Nisivoccia echoed Councilman Loveys’ comments and congratulated Darren Maloney on his retirement. He thanked all of the township professionals and vendors who kept their fees leveled this year.

Councilwoman Carey stated that Manager Mountain, Darren Maloney, and the township staff did a great job. She commented that it could sometimes be taken for granted that the town does a great job and that there is a great deal of fiscal responsibility practiced. She stated that she was very proud that the township had gone five years without increasing municipal taxes.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public budget session was closed.

2. R-84-21 Adoption of 2021 Municipal Budget

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) $19,650,478.91 (Item 2 below) for municipal purposes, and

(b) $______________ (Item 3 below) for school purposes in Type I School Districts only (N.J.S.A. 18A:9-2) to be raised by taxation and,

(c) $______________(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.A. 18A:9-3) and certification to the County Board of Taxation of the following summary of general revenues and appropriations.

(d) $912,965.00 (Sheet 43) Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Levy

(e) $1,516,614.09 (Item 5 below) Minimum Library Tax

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 22nd day of April, 2021. 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 2021 approved budget and all amendments thereto, if any, which have been previously approved by the Director of Local Government Services.

Councilwoman Carey made a motion to adopt the 2021 Budget. Councilwoman Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

E. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to approve the February 20, 2021 Budget Minutes. Deputy Mayor Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

F. COMBINED ACTIONS

1. R-85-21 Self-Examination of Budget
2. R-86-21 Refund registration for child to attend Budding Stars summer program due to conflicting schedule with Covid-19 schooling extension to Mili Khubani - $400.00
3. R-87-21 Authorizing electronic tax sale to take place in 2021 for all municipal delinquencies through December 31, 2020
4. R-88-21 Authorizing the award and rejection of MCCPC Contract #10 for Lumber, Insulation, Hardware, Paint and Paint Supplies to various bidders
5. R-89-21 Authorizing the award and rejection of MCCPC Contract #13A for Fire Equipment Services to various bidders
6. R-90-21 Authorizing the award of MCCPC Contract 13B for Fire Water Pumps on Motorized Fire Apparatus
7. R-91-21 Authorizing the award of MCCPC Contract #29 - Pest Control Services - Buildings to E&G Exterminators, Inc.
8. R-92-21 Authorizing the award and rejection of MCCPC Contract #30 for Office Paper Supply to WB Mason Company, Inc.
9. R-93-21 Authorizing the award to Downes Tree Service Company, Inc. and rejection of bid from Arborist Services by Dujets for MCCPC Contract #34 for Tree Spraying Services
10. R-94-21 Authorizing the rejection of bid for MCCPC Contract 43 for Propane Gas by Amerigas Propane Company
11. R-95-21 Authorizing the award of MCCPC Contract 46 for Preventive Maintenance/Repair of Emergency Generators to Genserve, Inc
12. R-96-21 Authorizing the award of MCCPC Contract #47 - Water Meters/Data Recorders & Radio Frequency Meter Interface Units to Core & Main, LP and Rio Supply Inc.
13. R-97-21 Authorizing the award of MCCPC Contract #50 for Fire Department Uniforms - Purchase to Turn Out Uniforms, Inc.
14. R-98-21 Authorizing the award of MCCPC Contract 37 for Traffic Signal Maintenance & Repairs to Jen Electric, Inc.
15. R-99-21 Authorizing the Trade-in of surplus township property no longer needed for public use

Councilman Nisivoccia made a motion to approve the Combined Action Resolutions. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Potter
Mayor Forstenhausler - Abstain from R-89-21, R-90-21 and R-97-21

NAYS: None

G. UPCOMING EVENTS

1. Clean Communities Day, Saturday, April 24, 2021
2. Confidential Paper Shredding, Saturday, April 24, 2021 from 9:00 am - 12 noon in the Municipal Building parking lot at 502 Millbrook Avenue
3. Operation Drug Take Back Collection, Saturday, April 24, 2021, from 10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. outside of the ACME at the corner of Millbrook Avenue and Sussex Tpke.
4. Community Garage Sale - Clean Up and Clean Out - April 24, 2021 and April 25, 2021 - 9am to 4pm - Register online at randolphnj.org
5. Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting for Hibiscus Island Grill at 1594 Rte. 10 (corner of Sussex Tpke. and Rte. 10) Randolph, on Saturday, May 1, 2021, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. with the ribbon cutting at 2:00 p.m.
6. Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting for Silver Lake Physical Therapy at 1201 Sussex Tpke. Randolph, on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at 5:00 p.m.

Councilwoman Veech informed the public that a list of the garage sale participants could be found on the township websites. Registration for the event has closed.

Mayor Forstenhausler added that anyone who wanted to register could no longer get their name on the participant list, but they could still participate in the garage sale.

H. ORDINANCES: INTRODUCTION

1. Ordinance No. 10-21 Appropriating $900,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2021 Road Overlay Program

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to provide funding for the 2021 Road Overlay Program. BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $900,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2021 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, 2021, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting.

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.

Mayor Forstenhausler shared that he has been on the Road Overlay Subcommittee for several years. He stated that the committee has been doing a great job. He commented that the township’s roads have been steadily improving each year. This year the program was lowered to $900,000 from $1 million; they have been able to pave a few roads and the quality is improving.

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

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

NAYS: None

2. Ordinance No. 11-21 An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $851,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2021 Capital Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to provide funding for various 2021 Capital Improvements for the Rescue Squad, Police Department, Parks and Recreation Department, Fire Department and improvements to municipally owned properties.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $851,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2021 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting.

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 adopt the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

3. Ordinance No. 12-21 An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating the $35,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Retaining Wall Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to provide funding for retaining wall improvements in various locations of the Township.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $35,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Retaining Wall 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting.

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.

Mayor Forstenhausler commented that the township has been discussing the retaining wall projects for several years. The township has been discussing how to best address the deterioration of the wooden retaining walls. He believed that the township has done a great job of funding the ongoing retaining wall improvement project with expenses each year.

The town has been taking care of the worst walls first and trying to do as much as possible with grading to limit cash impact to the municipality. He explained that the wall on Millbrook Avenue was repaired earlier than planned due to the need for an emergency repair. He commented that the Township Engineer was working with additional homeowners to discuss and plan for tree removal, grading, and replacement of walls. Councilman Loveys made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

4. Ordinance No. 13-21 Bond Ordinance Providing for the Improvement of Calais Road (Phase 1) In and By the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, NJ, Appropriating $500,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $142,500 Bonds for Notes of the Township for Financing Such Appropriation

Manager Mountain explained that this Bond Ordinance provides for Phase 1 of the Calais Road Improvements in the township by financing all structures, appurtenances, milling, paving, curb reconstruction, drainage improvements, engineering, surveys, equipment, work and materials necessary and as shown on and in accordance with the plans and specifications filed in the office of the Township Engineer. The project is also being funded by a significant portion of state aid.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “Bond Ordinance Providing for the Improvement of Calais Road (Phase 1) In and By the Township of Randolph, In the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $500,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $142,500 Bonds or Notes of the Township for Financing Such Appropriation” 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting.

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 Loveys asked for clarification on the location covered by Phase 1 of the project. He stated that the project was from Dover Chester Road to a stream crossing, and inquired where the stream crossing was located. Manager Mountain informed the councilman that it was located in between the park and Edgewood Terrace.

Councilman Nisivoccia asked if the balance of the project was for next year. Manager Mountain confirmed. Mayor Forstenhausler commented that this was a grant project for which the township was getting additional funding. Manager Mountain confirmed that the township was receiving $350,000 from the state to aid with the project.

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

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

NAYS: None

5. Ordinance No. 14-21 Bond Ordinance Appropriating $445,000 and Authorizing the Issuance of $422,750 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

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is for various improvements including the purchase of two pick-up trucks and a compact loader for the Department of Public Works and upgrades the HVAC system and chiller at the Municipal Building.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “Bond Ordinance Appropriating $445,000, and Authorizing the Issuance of $422,750 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting.

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 adopt the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

6. Ordinance No. 15-21 Bond Ordinance Providing for the Acquisition of New Equipment for use by the Fire Department of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $690,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $655,000 Bonds or Notes of the Township for Financing such Appropriation

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this Bond Ordinance is to fund the acquisition of Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (S.C.B.A.) units. It will be a full replacement of all the units requiring replacement every 15 years.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “Bond Ordinance Providing for the Acquisition of New Equipment for use by the Fire Department of the Township of Randolph, In the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $690,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $655,000 Bonds or Notes of the Township for Financing such Appropriation” 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting

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 Loveys asked if every firefighter required an S.C.B.A assigned to them. Mayor Forstenhausler informed him that it was not assigned specifically by firefighter; he explained that each seated position on an apparatus is required to have an S.C.B.A. assigned to a seat.

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

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

NAYS: None

7. Ordinance No. 16-21 An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Amending Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to amend Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18 to add the purchasing of lighting and other equipment for the rescue squad ambulances

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Amending Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18” 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 remotely on the 6th, of May, via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. at which time and place all persons interested shall be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance. Instructions on how to join the meeting will be posted on the Township website prior to the May 6, 2021, Council meeting.

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 adopt the ordinance. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

I. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Council is now open to the public. If you plan to address the Township Council please bear in mind that you will be asked to limit your comments to six minutes. Should you reach the five-minute mark, you will be advised that you have one minute remaining. If you go past the six-minute mark, your microphone will be muted.

Hazel Ball of 236 Dover Chester Road shared that the Randolph PEACE would be hosting their first-ever Juneteenth event on Saturday, June 19, at the Brundage Park Pavilion. There will be a discussion about Juneteenth, dancers, prayers, and other activities. She invited the council to attend and participate.

Mayor Forstenhausler thanked Mrs. Ball. He shared that they have spoken about this before; he passed the invitation to other council members. Once he knows who will be able to attend, he would let her know.

Rachita Chandak of 6 Brookview Circle shared that she is a member of the Randolph Indian Association and a member of the Randolph PEACE. On behalf of the Randolph Indian Association, she stated that they supported the resolution proposed by Randolph PEACE. She hoped that the township would consider the resolution and ensure that any diversity inclusion committee would include representation from various ethnicities, races, cultures, gender, etc., and be reflective of the diversity in the town. She shared that Livewell Pharmacy was offering COVID-19 vaccinations.

Christina Gazzillo of 4 Forrest Road shared that she was in full support of the resolution proposed by Randolph PEACE. She shared that her family was made up of mixed ethnicities and that diversity inclusion was important to them.

Seeing and hearing no one further, the public session was closed.

J. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilwoman Carey reported that she attended a Library Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday, April 15. She shared that Library Director Lore Reinhart was in the process of applying for a grant to fund a new program that would lend technology to residents in the community without full access to technology or connectivity; the program will be called, Tech to Go. If awarded the grant, the library will be purchasing leapfrog leaf pads and ipads.

She reported that Lore Reinhart visited surrounding towns that host Storywalks; the activity involves book pages being displayed throughout community areas. Mrs. Reinhart will be discussing the project with Township Parks and Recreation Director Russ Newman and Manager Mountain to see if there is a way to incorporate it into the community.

She reported that the Cannabis Work Group met on Wednesday, April 14. During the meeting, officials from other towns with existing medicinal marijuana facilities were invited to speak to provide the group with input about their experiences. On Wednesday, April 21, the group met with Police Chief Stokoe to get more information on the impact that the cannabis businesses would have on law enforcement in New Jersey.

She shared that the Cannabis Work Group would be holding the first of their two public forums on Thursday, April 28; from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Information about the forum would be disseminated through the township’s communication channels. The second cannabis forum will be held on Wednesday, June 9. The cannabis group is surveying the community over the next 6 weeks to get input on the cannabis licenses.

Mayor Forstenhausler asked Councilwoman Carey to repeat the date of the first public cannabis forum. Councilwoman Carey informed him that it would be taking place on Wednesday, April 28, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Mayor Forstenhausler asked Councilwoman Carey if the survey would be anonymous. Councilwoman Carey stated that the survey was anonymous and very brief.

Councilman Loveys reported that the Board of Health met on Monday, April 12. During the meeting, Township Health Officer Mark Caputo provided a brief update on COVID-19 and his meetings with the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH). He explained that the NJDOH discouraged discontinuing K-12 schools from in person learning.

Councilman Loveys reported that the Morris County Homebound Vaccination Program was well underway. Mark Caputo expressed his gratitude for the efforts of Deputy Mayor Potter and the Randolph COVID angels in securing over 400 vaccination appointments for Randolph residents and providing the county with a list of homebound residents that require assistance. He suspected that the county’s homebound program slowed down due to the CDC’s pause of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

He shared that the township was eligible to receive a $240,000 grant to be used for the continuation of identifying at-risk groups in the community. As of April 12, Mark Caputo has been working on the application.

The Recreation Advisory Committee met on April 15. It was reported that spring sports were continuing, pending any change of state health guidelines. The registration numbers for Randolph’s summer camps, clinics, and the Randolph Lake appear to be strong; there are two months left in the registration period. Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Steve Eisenstein is communicating with the schools to ascertain if their facilities could be used for the summer camps in the event of inclement weather.

He shared that the committee continued discussing the possibility of placing a new equipment shed at Freedom Park. There was also discussion about the boys and girls lacrosse programs’ request to have a bounce wall constructed at Freedom Park.

He briefly mentioned that the Trails Advisory Committee was looking into new potential trail sections.

Councilman Nisivoccia wished everyone a happy Earth Day. He reported that the Municipal Alliance Committee was sponsoring two upcoming events. The first event for students would be taking place at the middle school on April 29, and the second event for adults would be taking place on June 11 via Zoom. Mental Health First Aid Training is scheduled for June 8 and June 10; information about the event will be forwarded to the Township Manager for dissemination on the town’s communication channels.

He reported that Girl Scout Troop #4965 proposed a service project to place crossing flags in areas where trails cross busy roads. The troop will be submitting a proposal to the committee. Additionally, three Randolph High School students who are members of the Tomorrows Leaders Program identified some improvements for Ted’s Pond at Hidden Valley Park.

He reported that members of the Trails Advisory Committee surveyed the trails for new trail options. Some of the suggested options were not a part of the existing 2017 Trails Master Plan. The committee would be working with Russ Newman on further development. Committee Chair Phil Sheehy invited the council on a field trip to tour the prospective sites. He informed the public that Saturday, June 5, was National Trails Day; the committee encouraged everyone to go take a hike.

He reported that the Liberty Tree Committee was working out a few details for the project. The committee was reviewing the Randolph Historical Society insurance against the township’s insurance coverage for the museum.

He concluded his report by sharing that he attended a Morris County League of Municipalities meeting and a Randolph Area Chamber of Commerce meeting.

Councilman Tkacs reported that the workgroups he participated in continued to meet weekly.

Councilwoman Veech shared that she attended the Morris County League of Municipalities meeting. She also attended the last two Cannabis Work Group meetings.

She reported that the Randolph Community Garden was in the process of installing a pollinator garden. The Lowe’s on East Hanover Avenue agreed to supply the garden with a seed spreader and other equipment needed for the project; they are big supporters of the community parks and veterans. She shared that community gardeners were invited to attend a meeting at the garden on Saturday, April 24. She concluded her reported by sharing that there were over 30 people waitlisted for the garden.

Mayor Forstenhausler inquired about the pollinator garden. Councilwoman Veech informed him that the pollinator garden is used to attract honey bees which will aid with pollination at the garden.

Deputy Mayor Potter reported that the Environmental Landmarks Advisory Committee did not meet since the last council meeting. She acknowledged that it was Earth Day and outlined the many ways in which Randolph is environmentally active. She briefly reviewed the efforts of the Advisory Environmental and Landmarks Committee and the Environmental Master Plan Committee and discussed the township’s many award-winning parks and trails, and community garden.

She reported that any resident 16 years or older could reach out to the Randolph COVID angels for assistance with vaccination appointments. She also shared that homebound individuals could get assistance from the county. The contact information was available on the township website.

She commended the Township’s Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad for their efforts in assembling detailed requests for their organizations.

She attended the Randolph Chamber of Commerce meeting on March 18.

Mayor Forstenhausler thanked the Randolph PEACE group for their recommendations; he stated that it was clear that the group put a lot of effort into drafting the resolution. The proposed resolution has been shared with all the council members and the members of the DISC after it was presented to himself and Councilman Loveys earlier in the week. He stated that everyone was committed to reading it and understanding it. The proposed resolution would be taken into consideration; he appreciated their efforts.

He reported that the Ordinance Subcommittee held two additional meetings since the last council meeting. The subcommittee has been gathering information and is continuing plans for a new committee to address diversity in Randolph. He stated that while the subcommittee had not yet received the final report from the DISC, the group is moving forward with plans so when the recommendations are released the township can move quickly.

He informed the public that it typically takes a while to put a new committee together as the group’s mission statement, goals, and structure need to be established. They have been in discussion with the Township Attorney about how to set the committee up.

He reported that the DISC was continuing to meet weekly; he has attended two committee meetings since the last council meeting.

He echoed Deputy Mayor Potter’s comments and wished everyone a happy Earth Day. He looked forward to Clean Communities Day on Saturday and wished everyone success during the township’s first Community-wide Garage Sale event.

K. 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:

Personnel Update: Police and Finance Department

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 Carey made a motion to move into Executive Session at 7:00 p.m. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to close the Executive Session at 7:20 p.m. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

I. ADJOURNMENT

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:20 pm. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None