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

Minutes: April 30, 2015

A. OPENING OF WORK SESSION MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Veech. 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 December 19, 2014 by e-mailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on December 4, 2014. 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 24, 2014.

2. Roll Call

PRESENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

Also present: Township Manager Mountain and Keli Gallo from the Law Office of Edward Buzak.

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Veech led the Pledge of Allegiance.

B. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS

1. Proclamation—VFW Buddy Poppy Sale

Mayor Veech presented Randolph VFW Post Commander Scott Montanio with the Proclamation and read:

Buddy Poppy Distribution
May 1 through May 31, 2015

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, Joanne Veech, 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 31, 2015 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.

April 30, 2015 Joanne Veech, Mayor

Past Post Commander Jack Sassaman explained that the Randolph VFW awards three special awards: one each to an EMT, a law enforcement officer, and a firefighter. Chairman Ted Carmen explained that he contacts the Police, Fire, and EMT. Their commanders, chiefs, and members recommend one person because of his/her outstanding service. Ted Carmen introduced award recipients EMT Matt McArdle, Patrolman Brian Brenckman, and Firefighter William Wagner, and presented each with a plaque.

C. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

D. BOARD OF EDUCATION BUDGET PRESENTATION

Vice President of the Board of Education, Al Matos, introduced fellow Board members Ann Standrich, and Jerry Eckert. Mr. Matos handed out a copy of the Tentative Budget for the 2015-2016 school year, and reported the following:

• The final approval for the budget will be Tuesday, May 5th.
• The approved budget must be submitted to the state by May 6th.
• The School District focuses on the “whole student” by focusing on both academics and other opportunities provided to students.
• The School District continues to be in the lower quartile of cost per pupil compared to other similar school districts in Morris County.
• The Tentative Budget includes a 2% increase from last year in the tax levy.
• The state aid remains the same as last year.
• In the Tentative Revenue Budget, the General Fund, or operating fund, is $84,297,779, and Total Revenues is $89,513,357.
• In the Tentative Expenditure Budget, the General Fund is $84,297,779.
• He read some of the expenditures, and noted that the School District continues to invest in technology; there is a five year technology plan that continues to bring Randolph to the forefront.
• Security was a strategy put in place a couple of years ago and is important to continue.
• Office of the Superintendent increased; it includes funding for the Kindergartens such as supplies and equipment. Full time Kindergarten is being implemented in September 2015.
• There is flexibility, within the confines of the law, to move funds within the budget. The General Fund and the Tax Levy are what is approved on May 5th.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak asked what differentiates the Personnel and the Payroll line items. It was explained that items such as office supplies, professional development, and contractor services are under Personnel. There was some discussion on the Personnel line item.

Mayor Veech asked for the trends in enrollment over the last five years as well as when the budget would reflect the downward trend of students. Mr. Matos replied that demographics in Randolph show that the number of students is going down. He stated that in real terms, cost is going down; salaries and utilities continue to increase, but sometimes the number of programs offered has to decrease. Some programs were cut a few years back when there was a significant decrease in state funding. There was some discussion on this topic.

Councilman Forstenhausler reported that residents approach him about their taxes increasing, and why, if there are fewer students, the school budget keeps increasing; to a resident, the increase from last year of 1.4 million dollars isn’t flat. He asked how to best respond to these residents. Mr. Eckert explained that the majority of the increase is typically the health benefit costs.

Councilman Napoliello explained that the Council bases the tax increase on the average house in Randolph; this year, the municipal increase is $46 for the average house. He asked if the school budget has a similar figure. Mr. Eckert explained where to find the figure in the handout; the increase is $128 per average tax bill in Randolph.

Councilman Guadagno asked what other things could the Council tell residents, besides full day Kindergarten, that is part of the Educational Initiatives and Enhancements. Mr. Matos explained that the Board of Education continues to discuss the change to the High School and Middle School start times. Councilman Guadagno asked for an explanation of STEM. Mr. Matos stated that STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The School District is trying to enhance the STEM curriculum in order to better prepare students for the future.

There was some discussion on the cost of health care.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak explained that residents ask about the municipal budget as well as the school budget, and that the Manager provides the Council with the primary budget drivers. He asked if the Board of Education could prepare something similar for the Council. Mr. Matos and Mr. Eckert replied that they could provide the primary budget drivers.

Councilman Loveys asked for the current district enrollment. Mr. Eckert stated it is just under 4,900 which does not include anticipated Kindergarten.

E. 2015 MUNICIPAL BUDGET/PUBLIC HEARING/ADOPTION

1. R-102-15 Adoption of the 2015 Municipal Budget

Manager Mountain recognized Darren Maloney for his work on the budget document. He also recognized the staff for their work, and the Council for their time throughout the budget process. The Manager highlighted the following:

• The process was guided by a set of questions:
  • Will this action compound Randolph’s budget challenges in 2015 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?
• The township finished 2014 in an outstanding financial position.
• Throughout the process, the optimism has been somewhat tempered by the fact that tax appeals remain a concern due to a backlog in the state tax court.
• Because of the Council and the management’s sound approach to the financial management of the township over the years, it continues to hold a AAA bond rating.
• The 2015 Municipal Budget continues the township tradition of remaining below the state mandated caps. The budget is roughly $300,000 below the 2% tax levy cap, and it will continue to be well under the appropriation cap.
• The Municipal Budget and Capital Improvement Program total this year is $29,640,792; the Water and Sewer budget is $6,973,260, for a combined budget total of $36,614,052.
• The 2015 budget is increasing by a total of just over $680,000, approximately 2% over the prior year. The majority of the operating budget remained level. The drivers were:
  • Recycling—cost of transition to privatization, but in the long run will be a savings to the municipality. In addition, two staff members will be retiring in 2015 and recycling vehicles will be sold at auction.
  • Increases in health insurance.
  • Deferred charges increased primarily due to the township-wide revaluation.
  • Capital Improvements—investment in improvements to the infrastructure, particularly the roads in the township.
• The increases in expenses mentioned were, in part, offset by some increases in revenue and growth in the ratable base. The surplus has also regenerated.
• The Water and Sewer Fund is an independently managed budget; both functions are supported by customer billings. They are both carrying healthy fund balances; increases in these fund balances have been planned.
• The Municipal Tax Rate, including the Library, the Open Space Park Development Tax and the Reserve for Uncollected Taxes, is increasing by 1.92% for the 2015 year. The increase of 1.4 cents is the lowest in several years, and will generate an additional $480,000 in tax revenue to help Randolph meet its obligation.
• The impact on the average assessed residential structure is $46.35 for the year.
• A variety of other ways to approach the budget were considered. Manager Mountain and Darren Maloney concluded that none of those options was fiscally prudent.
• The budget introduced by the Council in March, and up for public hearing tonight is a sensible spending plan.

Councilman Loveys thanked Manager Mountain and Darren Maloney for the time they invested in the budget, and thanked the Council members for their time as well. He stated that he agreed with the Manager that it was a sensible spending plan.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

R-102-15

Be it resolved by the Mayor and 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) $19,017,839.00 (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) $872,037.00 (Sheet 43) Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Levy

(e) $1,440,744.00 (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 30th day of April, 2015. 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 2015 approved budget and all amendments thereto, if any, which have been previously approved by the Director of Local Government Services.

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to adopt the 2015 Municipal Budget. Councilman Napoliello seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

F. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

• Sussex Turnpike water line project—bids were taken; the bids were in excess of the estimate for the project. The bid project will be revised quickly, with some of the work being done in-house. He is meeting with the Engineer and staff to go into more detail. The rejection of the bid will be on the agenda for the next Council meeting. Paul Ferriero is confident that the project can fit into the price that was budgeted for, without straining too much, and can still meet the targeted start of the project in August.
• Retirements of Tom Chudley and Ed Garrison—both retired from DPW in April after 27 and 25 years, respectively. He wished them both the best in retirement. The retirements were anticipated in the recycling program projections; the positions will be eliminated.
• Emergency Management Month—this is done twice per year, in April and October. Testing of the generators was done at the Municipal Building, the Library, Community Center, the Public Works Maintenance Facility, and the YMCA.
• Cell Tower—he is looking to schedule a meeting in the next two weeks with the workgroup. He and Darren Carney have been working through documents, and there are some discussion items for the workgroup. He has been hearing regularly from two national carriers who are extremely eager to see this project completed.
• Revaluation—a workgroup meeting will be coming up. Appraisal Systems has been working in conjunction with him and the staff on a variety of public information materials. He would like the workgroup to see the materials before the letter and brochure go out, and discuss any other approach to the public relations. A kickoff meeting is anticipated in late May or early June.
• No Parking Ordinance—Keli Gallo has put it together. As a courtesy, he sent it to Mt. Freedom synagogue for their review. They had questions and asked if it could wait until they review things with the Police Chief. It will most likely be on the agenda for the next meeting.
• Coyote in the community—he had circulated information to the Council, and staff has been following up with the incident. A Swift Reach went out to the specified area to alert residents of the precautions they should be taking.

G. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES

1. Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes and the Executive Meeting Minutes from March 26, 2015

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes and the Executive Meeting Minutes from March 26, 2015. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Mayor Veech

ABSTAIN: Deputy Mayor Hirniak

NAYS: None

H. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to accept the Combined Action Resolutions. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

1. Authorizing an Agreement for Randolph to Provide Animal Control Services to the Boro of Rockaway for $10,900.00

R-98-15

WHEREAS, the Borough of Rockaway wishes to obtain Animal Control Services from the Township of Randolph.

WHEREAS, both parties agree to abide by the provisions set forth in the Services Agreement dated January 1, 2015.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph do hereby approve the Contract with the Borough of Rockaway.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign the contract.

2. Refund Tree Bond for 9 Revere Ct. for Block 21, Lot 181 to Vikas Bangia—$1,200.00

R-99-15

WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Department received a tree bond posted by Vikas Bangia, 9 Revere Court for Block 21, Lot 181 in the amount of $1800; and

WHEREAS, a remaining portion of 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 Vikas Bangia, 9 Revere Court, Randolph, NJ 07869.

________________________________________
Darren Carney, Planning & Zoning Administrator

3. Authorizing the Award of a Professional Services Agreement to Ferriero Engineering for Engineering Services for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement Project—Not to Exceed $38,000

R-100-15

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) requires engineering services for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement Project; 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 located at PO Box 571, 180 Main St, Chester, NJ 07930 to provide the necessary engineering services for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement Project for a total amount not to exceed $38,000 per their attached proposal; and

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

WHEREAS, the contract with Ferriero Engineering is for a total amount not to exceed $38,000 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 has submitted to the Township the Political Contribution Disclosure Form, Stockholder Disclosure Certification and Business Entity Disclosure Certification as required; and

WHEREAS, Ferriero Engineering 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; 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 having an office at PO Box 571, 180 Main St, Chester, NJ 07930 to provide engineering services for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement Project until the project is fully completed.
2. Ferriero Engineering shall be compensated for a total contract amount not to exceed $38,000.
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.
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

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 Water Capital Budget, Sussex Turnpike Water Extension (Ord. 09-15), to award a contract to Ferriero Engineering for engineering services for the Sussex Turnpike Waterline Replacement Project.

__________________________________
Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 06-215-55-909-600 (not to exceed $38,000)

4. Cancelling 2012 and 2013 Road Program Balances in Ordinance #7-12 and #11-13

R-101-15

WHEREAS, certain General Capital Improvement Authorization balances in Ordinance #7-12 and #11-13 remain dedicated to 2012 and 2013 road program projects that are now complete; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to formally cancel these balances.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that the Finance Director is instructed to cancel the unexpended and dedicated balances the 2012 road program in Ordinance #7-12 and the 2013 road program in Ordinance #11-13.

5. Raffle License, Off-Premise 50/50, Randolph Township Women’s Club on October 3, 2015 at the Randolph Country Fair, 502 Millbrook Avenue, Randolph, NJ at 3:00 p.m.; Rain date—October 4, 2015 at 3:00 p.m.

6. Application for Social Affairs Permit, Randolph Chemical Engine Company #2, 340 Route 10 West, Randolph, NJ on May 30, 2015 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

I. UPCOMING EVENTS

1. Morris County EDC—May 8th at the Birchwood Manor
2. Historic Bus Tour of Randolph—May 9th at 2 p.m., leaving the Municipal Building, $5
3. Commemorative Bench Dedication—In memory of Jacob Levy, Brundage Park, on May 12th at 6:30 p.m.
4. Commemorative Bench Dedication and Tree Dedication—In memory of Ty Thompson, Mt. Freedom Park, on May 19th at 6:30 p.m.
5. Millbrook Firehouse #2—Beefsteak Dinner—May 30th at 6 p.m.
6. MCCPC Luncheon—May 13th from 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building
7. Morris County EDC—May 20th at 5 p.m. at the Mountain Lakes Club
8. Memorial Service at the VFW—May 25th at 11 a.m.
9. Morris EDC—June 2nd from 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. in Florham Park
10. Relay For Life—June 6th at CCM

J. ORDINANCES: SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING

1. Ordinance #05-15: Salaries—Amending Ordinances 16-09, 23-10, 12-11, 10-12, 14-12, 17-12 and 9-13 to Provide and Determine the Range of Compensation for Specified Officers and Employees in the Township of Randolph

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 16-09, 23-10, 12-11, 10-12, 14-12, 17-12 and 9-13 TO PROVIDE AND DETERMINE THE RANGE OF COMPENSATION FOR SPECIFIED OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this Ordinance sets the maximum salary levels for employees and appointed officials for the township. It is a required Ordinance by law to be done annually. It covers all employees with the exception of the FOP and Teamsters groups.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Judith Stewart of 114 Everdale Road stated that there are two asterisked items on page 3, section 4, Building Inspector and part time Zoning Officer. The asterisk notes that the title is eliminated December 31, 2013. Mrs. Stewart asked if the salary of $58,000 is for the half-time Zoning Officer. Manager Mountain stated that it was a typo which he hadn’t caught. He stated the asterisk shouldn’t be there for the Zoning Officer; it is inaccurate since the title was not eliminated.

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

Deputy Mayor Hirniak made a motion to amend the Ordinance to reflect the deletion of the asterisk after part time Zoning Officer. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 16-09, 23-10, 12-11, 10-12, 14-12, 17-12 and 9-13 TO PROVIDE AND DETERMINE THE RANGE OF COMPENSATION FOR SPECIFIED OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES IN 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 Guadagno made a motion to accept the ordinance as amended. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

2. Ordinance #06-15: Appropriating $323,300 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2015 Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $323,300 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2015 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is a capital cash Ordinance. It provides capital funding for EMS, Fire, Parks, Police, the Master Plan project, and the animal shelter.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $323,300 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2015 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” 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 Guadagno made a motion to accept the ordinance. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

3. Ordinance #07-15: Appropriating $770,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for 2015 Water/Sewer Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $770,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2015 WATER/SEWER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is a capital cash Ordinance for water and sewer improvements.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $770,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2015 WATER/SEWER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” 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 Guadagno made a motion to accept the ordinance. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

4. Ordinance #08-15: Appropriating $97,500 from the Recreation/Open Space Trust Fund for Various 2015 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $97,500 FROM THE RECREATION/OPEN SPACE TRUST FUND FOR VARIOUS 2015 PARKS AND RECREATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is a capital cash Ordinance for recreation/open space trust funded projects.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $97,500 FROM THE RECREATION/OPEN SPACE TRUST FUND FOR VARIOUS 2015 PARKS AND RECREATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” 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 Napoliello made a motion to accept the Ordinance. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

5. Ordinance #09-15: Providing for Various Capital Improvements Appropriating the Aggregate Amount of $2,128,000 Therefore and Authorizing the Issuance of $1,952,250 Bonds or Notes of the Township to Finance Part of the Cost Thereof

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH, APPROPRIATING THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $2,128,000 THEREFORE AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,952,250 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is a bond Ordinance which funds the remaining portion of the 2015 capital plan.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH, APPROPRIATING THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $2,128,000 THEREFORE AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,952,250 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF” 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 Napoliello made a motion to accept the ordinance. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

K. ORDINANCE INTRODUCTION

1. Ordinance #10-15: An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $945,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2015 Road Overlay Program

Manager Mountain explained that the Ordinance includes the list of road improvements for the Capital Overlay program for 2015. There was a discussion at the prior meeting, as well as with the infrastructure workgroup; the recommendation is to move ahead with the Ordinance.

Councilman Loveys stated that he was supportive of the Road Overlay program; however, he felt that in the future it would be better if the weighting system was explained to the Council since it’s difficult understand by just looking at a list of roads and corresponding numbers. Manager Mountain responded that it would be explained. The Manager also stated that he had some concerns about the overall weighting in general; there are some criteria that could potentially skew the way the roads come up. He would like to review the weighting system with the infrastructure workgroup.

Councilman Guadagno reported that one of the discussions was that getting a list was fine, but getting a map of Randolph indicating where the roads are would be helpful. Councilman Loveys suggested going back 4 or 5 years and color coding the maps to indicate what roads have been done. The Council was in agreement that they want to be sure that the roads throughout the whole township are being considered when developing the road overlay program.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak stated that he had asked Manager Mountain to prepare something similar, a color coded map for the 2015 road overlay program. The Manager had provided one to the Deputy Mayor just prior to the Council meeting. Deputy Mayor Hirniak showed the Council the map and added that what was discussed about having this type of map for each year was a good idea. Manager Mountain explained that with the GIS system it would be easy to do for at least the past few years.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $945,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE 2015 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 21st of May, 2015 at 7 o’clock 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.

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

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None

L. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Judith Stewart of 114 Everdale Road stated that she was impressed with the new animal facility; however, she’s heard people mention how far it is from Randolph. She said something needs to be done so that people in Randolph want to go there to adopt animals. Mrs. Stewart suggested including information about the facility in the next Quarterly. She also felt the site needed more signage. Mrs. Stewart stated that she was confident that the road overlay program would be good.

Jim McConnell of 45 Carrell Road agreed with Judith Stewart about the animal facility. He also stated that he takes advantage of the shredding event each year, and said that it was very well run this year.

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

M. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilman Guadagno reported that several Council members had attended the Morris County Transportation program. He reported that they had hired an agency to help with the transportation program. Councilman Guadagno felt that they need a lot of help because they are off on their planning. For example, they had Dover Chester Road as an existing bike path. Deputy Mayor Hirniak added that the county will be having a second round of workshops starting in October; these public workshops will be held at events in the county. The Deputy Mayor stated that if his fellow Council members agreed, he had suggested they use the Country Fair in October so Randolph residents can provide feedback. Councilman Guadagno felt the program wasn’t going to move forward after the study since there isn’t any agency to implement the program. Deputy Mayor Hirniak explained that the study is to modify the circulation of Federal dollars that come into Morris County, everything that deals with bikes, trains, cars, public transportation, etc. The Federal dollars for projects go into the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) which includes 13 northern New Jersey counties. All of the Freeholders from each of those counties sit on the Executive Board of the NJTPA. By the end of the year the NJTPA will have a plan, and they will then take it to the County Planning Board. The County Planning Board will take the plan and work with it, and then present it to our Freeholders. The Freeholders take the plan, work with it, and then include it with the other 12 counties’ plans. So there will be 13 counties, each pitching for a portion of the Federal dollars. Deputy Mayor Hirniak explained this is years away from fruition, but he would like to invite them to Randolph and provide them with some assistance.

Councilman Forstenhausler reported that he attended the Environmental Commission meeting. There was discussion about the types of plantings that should be planted in Randolph; they should be non-invasive plants. There was some discussion at the meeting about the particulars of the recycling program, the road overlay program on Quaker Church Road, and possibility of preserving open space at the Mount Freedom Driving Range.

Councilman Napoliello reported that the MAC hosted speaker Dr. Bradley, and he was well received. Councilman Napoliello stated that Harry Ruiz has not attended a MAC meeting this year. He asked the Chairperson if she wanted him removed, and she said she’d like to find a replacement for his position first. Councilman Loveys reported that he attended the presentation by Dr. Bradley and felt it was very good. The Councilman was interested to know if the MAC felt it was successful in terms of number of attendees. Councilman Napoliello stated that the MAC felt it was very successful.

Mayor Veech reported that there are three open committee positions, the Board of Trustees for the Library, the EDC, and the Board of Adjustment. If Harry does get removed from the MAC, there will be four open positions.

Councilwoman Carey reported that she attended the Sussex Turnpike Improvement Project meeting, and felt it was informative and well done. Manager Mountain added that the county acknowledged that they had an issue with their bid, the specifications have to have a certain language in it for Pay to Play. There were inconsistencies in the language of the bid because it is different for county, state, and federal, and someone had inserted the incorrect language. The issue went unnoticed during the reviews prior to the bid going out. The project needed to go back out to bid, and therefore will delay the project. Some residents and business owners brought up some issues in the sessions held at the Municipal Building, that can now be worked out prior to the new bid being rewarded. The county is now looking at an August start date, and the project lasting 18 months.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak reported that he and Manager Mountain attended the Wildlife Management Committee meeting. A presentation was made by the Student Liaison on his efforts on trapping coyotes. The discussion began about trapping coyotes, and other members of the committee began talking about hunting them. The consensus was that there is an issue in the community which needs to be addressed. There was also a discussion about bear population. Deputy Mayor Hirniak asked the Council to support him and Manager Mountain in going back to the Wildlife Management Committee and ask them to start the process of putting together a plan for doing the same for the coyote population as has been done for the deer population. The Council supported Deputy Mayor Hirniak and Manager Mountain asking the Wildlife Management Committee to create a plan. Manager Mountain explained that the township is working with the family and he expects them to attend the Wildlife Management Committee meeting. He explained that the state hunting permits are that there is a season for coyotes, September through December. However, trapping can be done outside of the hunting season, but it will still need to be coordinated. The Police Department spent time on the phone with the State Fish and Game; the problem is that there is no guarantee that the coyote involved is the one that gets trapped. Councilman Forstenhausler asked what would be done with a coyote once it’s trapped. Manager Mountain stated that is one of the problems that would need to be determined. Councilman Forstenhausler stated that the residents should be alerted and told to not allow their pets to be outside unattended due to the coyote population. The Manager explained that the information is on the website, the Alternative Press wrote an article, it is on Facebook, and that a Swift Alert went out to the targeted neighborhood.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak also reported that he had the numbers for the deer hunt if anyone wanted specifics, but the total for 2014-2015 is currently 471; that is 20 less than last season.

Mayor Veech reported that she and Manager Mountain are working on an article about the Regional Animal Shelter which they plan to submit to the Municipal magazine. Once they’ve completed the article, they will distribute it to Council members. The Mayor also reported the stakeholder meetings took place last week for the Parks Master Plan. She was disappointed that more people didn’t attend. Mayor Veech noted two areas that came up, Artworks Studio which is in a very old building and looking for more space, and Brundage Park Playhouse which needs various repairs. There was some Council discussion on Brundage Park Playhouse.

N. ADJOURNMENT

Councilman Napoliello made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:10 p.m. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Napoliello
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

NAYS: None