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

Minutes: December 6, 2018

A. OPENING OF REGULAR MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Forstenhausler. This meeting is held pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Adequate notice of the meeting has been provided by posting written notice of the time, date, location and to the extent known, the agenda of the meeting in Randolph Township. This notice was posted on the Bulletin Board within Town Hall, it was filed with the Township Clerk, and it was provided to those persons or entities requesting notification. Notice was also provided to the Randolph Reporter and the Morris County Daily Record on November 17, 2017 by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on October 10, 2017. The annual resolution, which included this meeting date, was advertised in the Randolph Reporter, the official newspaper of the Township of Randolph on November 23, 2017, and in the Daily Record on November 21, 2017.

2. Roll Call

PRESENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Guadagno (arrived 7:10 p.m.)
Councilman Napoliello
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Mayor Forstenhausler
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Loveys

Also present: Township Manager Mountain, Darren Carney, and Ed Buzak from the Buzak Law Group

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Forstenhausler led the Pledge of Allegiance.

B. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS

1. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2018 Year End Holiday Crackdown

Mayor Forstenhausler presented the proclamation to Sergeant Matt Rispoli, and read:

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2018 Year End Holiday Crackdown

Whereas, impaired drivers on our nation’s roads killed 10,874 people in 2017; and

Whereas, 20% of motor vehicle fatalities in New Jersey are alcohol-related; and

Whereas, an enforcement crackdown is planned to combat impaired driving; and

Whereas, the season at the end of the year is traditionally a time of social gatherings which often include alcohol; and

Whereas, the State of New Jersey, Division of Highway Traffic Safety, has asked law enforcement agencies throughout the state to participate in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Year End Holiday Crackdown; and

Whereas, the project will involve increased impaired driving enforcement from December 7, 2018 through January 1, 2019; and

Whereas, an increase in impaired driving enforcement and a reduction in impaired driving will save lives on our roadways;

Therefore, Be It Resolved that Randolph Township declares its support for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2018 Year End Holiday Crackdown from December 7, 2018 through January 1, 2019 and pledges to increase awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving.

Mark H. Forstenhausler, Mayor

C. REVIEW MOUNT FREEDOM ZONE CHANGE

1. Review of Mount Freedom Zone Change Proposals—Darren Carney

Manager Mountain explained that Darren Carney would be reviewing a couple of proposed ordinances; they reflect recommendations from the Mount Freedom master plan update which was done approximately one year ago.

Darren Carney distributed a draft version of the proposed ordinances. He explained the following related to the proposed ordinance amending sections 15-23.2, 15-25, 15-26.2, 15-35.3 and 15-39.5 of the Land Development Ordinance:

• Change to the Limited Village Commercial (LVC District)—this is the area in Mount Freedom which is bounded on the south by Sussex Turnpike and the north and west by West Hanover Avenue. The proposed ordinance would change the uses within that zone; it would allow direct sale of retail products as well as professional offices.
• Section Three (SS/VO Specialty Shop/Village Office)—this is the larger part of the Mount Freedom area which is bounded on the east by Brookside Road, south of Sussex Turnpike and goes down to Heritage Plaza South by the bank and Burrini’s. The proposed ordinance would allow a mix of uses within the zone; this would allow more multifamily units in the area and a mix of use with retail or office on the first floor with residential above. The mixed use buildings would front on Sussex Turnpike, with parking in the back.
• For developments of six or more dwelling units, the developer shall provide an affordable housing component.
• Allow reduced principle structure setbacks which would allow more room for parking behind.
• Remove the floor area ratio requirements.
• Section Three allows for retail and service businesses, professional offices, banking, restaurants, taverns, and multi-family dwelling units with a permitted commercial use on the first floor. It prohibits drive-in restaurants, strip shopping centers, or garden apartments.

Mayor Forstenhausler asked what was meant by “home occupations” under prohibited uses. Darren replied that it refers to a professional office-type use, such as a dentist office or lawyer’s office in a multi-family dwelling unit. Councilwoman Veech suggested clarifying the term or providing examples in the ordinance.

Darren Carney continued:

• The minimum lot area was reduced to 8,000 square feet.
• The front yard set-back was reduced to 10 feet.
• The maximum height was increased to 45 feet or three stories to allow for commercial use on the first floor and two stories of residential use above.
• The maximum impervious coverage was increased to 70 percent of the total lot area.
• Set a maximum of 10 dwelling units per acre or eight units per structure.
• Parking is not permitted in front yards.
• Residential uses must be located on the floor above all non-residential uses in a mixed-use structure; commercial and residential should not be on the same floor.
• Encourages shared parking between businesses.

Councilwoman Veech asked for clarification on the difference between item C, “Parking is not permitted in front yards,” and item E, “To the greatest extent possible, parking should be provided behind the stores and shops on Sussex Turnpike.” Darren explained that parking is not permitted in front yards; however, businesses might need to utilize side yards for parking. Parking behind the stores will be highly encouraged. Councilwoman Veech suggested combining items C & E.

Darren Carney continued:

• Section Four deals with gas stations in Mount Freedom; there are a couple of B-1 zone districts. Automobile service stations are allowed within B-1 and B-2 zones; they want to prohibit that within the B-1 zones in Mount Freedom. The proposed ordinance refers to the technical report from the 2006 Master Plan where the boundaries of Mount Freedom are identified.
• Section Six (Village Center Residential Overlay District - 3)—there are currently four overlay districts in Mount Freedom; specifically the Pulte site has two, three and four. Pulte developed under four. This will eliminate overlay districts two and three on Pulte and redo the overlays on district three to create the new standards. This will allow townhomes and single-family duplex or triplex housing in Mount Freedom; it prohibits garden apartments, and sets up minimum bulk requirements.
• For developments of six or more dwelling, an affordable housing component will be required.

There was a brief discussion on the conditional uses within overlay district 3.

Darren also explained the proposed zone change, PO/R, noted in Exhibit A; the rear parking lot will have the same use as the front portion of the property.

The one change that was not addressed in the proposed ordinance was the cottage housing; this was in the 2006 Master Plan and the re-examination report. Darren reviewed it for Mount Freedom; it is very hard to implement due to the topography there. A lot of the cottage housing is small units with large, flat parking areas away from the dwelling units. If a developer wanted to build cottage housing, the master plan does encourage it, but it did not make sense to create the standards at this time since they would need to change in the future.

Darren Carney explained the following related to the proposed ordinance amending the Land Development Ordinance to establish the Village Mixed Use District and to rezone several properties:

• As part of the Mount Freedom Planning Study Update, the professional office zones within Mount Freedom were reviewed; there are several PO/R zones within Mount Freedom. The current PO/R zone along Sussex Turnpike does not layout very well for professional office use; there is already a lot of retail there and some multifamily units and bungalows.
• The recommendation was to create a new zone to permit commercial uses and some mix of residential uses that are appropriate.
• The Village Mixed Use (VMU) District is basic B-1 zoning, which allows for retail and service businesses, professional offices, banks, restaurants, single and two family dwellings. The accessory uses are outdoor storage and outdoor dining.

Councilwoman Veech asked for clarification on outdoor storage. Darren explained that it is limited displays of products, such as flowers or other types of seasonal items that are allowed in the B-1 zone. It is not for storage of vehicles or of bulk products. Councilwoman Veech suggested including more wording in the ordinance for clarification.

Darren continued:

• The main difference between the B-1 zone and this zone is that restaurants with drive-up window service are prohibited.
• It allows the overlay zone for multifamily housing.
• All the bulk requirements and buffer requirements are the same as in the B-1 zone.

Councilwoman Veech asked why the small, separate section on the map in Exhibit A was proposed to be part of the VMU district. Darren explained that it is currently in a commercial zone and is currently multifamily. The zone change would allow the property owner to come before the Planning Board or redevelop that property as residential.

Councilman Guadagno asked about the first proposed ordinance, 15-25.5—Development standards on page 3. He stated that he thought the State set the limits for the affordable housing. Darren explained that the township can require whatever they would like; the idea behind setting it at six was that at that number it becomes more intense development. He also explained that the State used to set the limits for affordable housing under the growth share, but they have since changed that.

Manager Mountain explained that Darren Carney will contact the affected property owners to educate them on the changes. He stated that the Council should review the proposed ordinances in the following couple of weeks and if they had other questions or comments, to contact him and Darren. It would then be put on the agenda in February. Manager Mountain explained that the process took over a year to research and speak with various land use boards as well as members of the Council. The zoning will put into place the requirements to facilitate the vision of creating a village-type center.

Councilwoman Carey suggested that an article be written for an upcoming Randolph Quarterly about the changes, why they were being done, and the impact they will have to the area.

D. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Judith Stewart of 114 Everdale Road commented on the lighting of the Menorah; she was curious why the event took place on the fourth night of Hanukkah. She said the event was great.

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

E. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

• Leaf collection update—the DPW continues to work hard on completing the curbside collection; the snow in November threw the schedule off by approximately one week. Notifications have been on the website, social media, the weekly email blast, and the electronic signs. Crews have been working longer days and on Saturdays; in addition to the Public Works crew, several Water & Sewer and Parks & Recreation workers are helping on Saturdays.
• He acknowledged and thanked Councilmen Guadagno and Napoliello for their service on the Council as well as to the community.
• He recognized Mayor Forstenhausler and thanked him for his leadership over the past year. He noted the challenges during the year; he also commended the Mayor for his awareness and attendance at various civic and cultural events.

F. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES

1. Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes from the October 18, 2018 Council Meeting

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to approve the Regular Minutes of the October 18, 2018 Council meeting. Councilman Napoliello seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey (ABSTAIN)
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Napoliello
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Mayor Forstenhausler

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Loveys

G. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

1. Refund Cash Road Opening Bond for the Purpose of Removing and Replacing a Concrete Sidewalk at 15 Aldebaran Drive, Block 21.05, Lot 136 to Evan Moretzsky—$500.00

R-358-18

WHEREAS, the Engineering Department has received a request from M. Evan Moretzsky for the release of a $500.00 cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of removing and replacing a concrete sidewalk at 15 Aldebaran Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869 (BL 21.05/L 136); and

WHEREAS, the road opening bond consisted of a $500.00 cash bond, which was received and deposited with the Finance Department on August 21, 2018; and

WHEREAS, the applicant was required to post this cash bond to guarantee the removing and replacing of a concrete sidewalk at 15 Aldebaran Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869, within the Township Right of Way; and

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

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Raffaele Carchia, Engineering Administrator that the Cash Road Opening Bond in the amount of $500.00 be refunded to M. Evan Moretzsky at 15 Aldebaran Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869.

2. Refund Tax Sale Certificate for Block 155, Lot 58, 95 W. Hanover Avenue to C&E Tax Lien Fund I—$13,936.07

R-359-18

WHEREAS, Tax Sale Certificate #18-34 held by C&E Tax Lien Fund I, and currently assessed to Anthony Guntali and known as, Block 155, Lot 58 and also known as 95 W. Hanover Ave.; and

WHEREAS, the above mentioned Tax Sale Certificate has been redeemed by Anthony Guntali the current owner of the said property. The redemption includes principal and interest in the amount of $4,536.07. There is also a premium in the amount of $9,400.00.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, acknowledges that the Tax Collector redeem and refund the total amount of $13,936.07 to C&E Tax Lien Fund I, PO Box 5021, Philadelphia, PA 19111 lien holder of Tax Sale Certificate #18-34.

3. Refund Tax Sale Certificate for Block 27.01, Lot 25, 31 Wilkinson Road to Tom Tiehua Cao & Michelle Qing Chang—$6,930.74

R-360-18

WHEREAS, Tax Sale Certificate #17-03 held by Tom Tiehua Cao & Michelle Qing Chang and currently assessed to Silver Hammer Homes, LLC and known as, Block 27.01, Lot 25 and also known as 31 Wilkinson Rd.; and

WHEREAS, the above mentioned Tax Sale Certificate has been redeemed by Silver Hammer Homes, LLC the current owner of the said property. The redemption includes principal and interest in the amount of $4,930.74. There is also a premium in the amount of $2,000.00.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, acknowledges that the Tax Collector redeem and refund the total amount of $6,930.74 Tom Tiehua Cao & Michelle Qing Chang, 19 Edendale St., Ladera Ranch, CA 92694 lien holder of Tax Sale Certificate #17-03.

4. Refund Tax Sale Certificate for Block 89, Lot 2, 179 Morris Tpke to US Bank C/F Tower DB VIII Trst—$29,797.90

R-361-18

WHEREAS, Tax Sale Certificate #18-19 held by US Bank C/F Tower DB VIII Trst 2018, and currently assessed to Joseph & Gail Piazza and known as, Block 89, Lot 2 and also known as 179 Morris Tpke.; and

WHEREAS, the above mentioned Tax Sale Certificate has been redeemed by Joseph & Gail Piazza the current owner of the said property. The redemption includes principal and interest in the amount of $21,297.90. There is also a premium in the amount of $8,500.00.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, acknowledges that the Tax Collector redeem and refund the total amount of $29,797.90 to US Bank C/F Tower DB VIII Trst 2018, 50 South 16th Street-Suite 2050, Philadelphia, PA 19102 lien holder of Tax Sale Certificate #18-19.

5. Cancellation of Property Tax Refund or Delinquent Accounts in the Amount of Less Than $10.00

R-362-18

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:5-17.1 allows for the cancellation of property tax refunds or delinquent accounts in the amounts of less than ten dollars ($10.00); and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph may authorize the Tax Collector to process, without any further action of the part of the Governing Body, any cancellation of property tax refunds or delinquencies of less than ten dollars ($10.00);

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, that the Tax Collector be instructed to cancel the 2018 tax delinquencies and overpayments of less than ten dollars ($10.00).

6. Refund Overpayments to Various Property Owners that Have a Credit on Their 4th Quarter 2018 Taxes

R-363-18

WHEREAS, the following listed property owners have a credit on their 4th quarter 2018 taxes by reason of overpayment; and

WHEREAS, it is recommended by the Tax Collector that these overpayments be refunded at this time.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, that the Treasurer be instructed to refund the following overpayments.

7. Authorizing Change Order #1 (Increasing Contract by $40,933.20) to CMS Construction Inc. for Butterworth III-Mt. Freedom Pump Station—Rebid Project—due to Required Additional Rock Excavation—Bringing the New Contract Total to $1,505,602.20

R-364-18

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph Council awarded a contract for the Butterworth III/Mt. Freedom Pump Station-Rebid project to CMS Construction Inc. (“CMS”) on March 1, 2018 via R 72-18 for $1,464,669.00; and

WHEREAS, excessive amounts of rock were encountered during sanitary sewer pipe installation for this project; and

WHEREAS, the increased rock quantity was tracked and verified by the Engineering Department; and

WHEREAS, the initial quantity anticipated for Contract Line Item #16—Rock Excavation was 100 cubic yards; and

WHEREAS, CMS bid $231.00 per cubic yard for Contract Line Item #16 for an initial amount of $23,100.00; and

WHEREAS, the additional amount of Rock Excavation required is 177.20 cubic yards, totaling an additional $40,933.20; and

WHEREAS, the additional Rock Excavation will increase the line item amount to $64,033.20; and

WHEREAS, this change order will increase the contract amount by $40,933.20 from $1,464,669.00 to $1,505,602.20 (an approximate 2.795% increase); and

WHEREAS, the Finance Officer has certified to the availability of funds for this increase from 08-215-55-912-300.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that Change Order #1 to CMS be approved and the contract amount amended per the above.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: December 6, 2018

As required by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-57, N.J.A.C. 5:30-14.5, and any other applicable requirement, I, Darren Maloney, Director of Finance for the Township of Randolph, have ascertained that funds will be available in the General Capital Fund, Ordinance #23-15, Butterworth Project, to award a change order contract to CMS Construction for the Butterworth/Mount Freedom Pump Station Project.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 08-215-55-912-300 (not to exceed $40,933.20)

8. Authorizing the Release of Monies Representing a Performance Bond Submitted by Innovative Municipal Products, Inc. for the November 1, 2017 thru October 31, 2018 DPW Winter Chemicals Contract—$89,600.00

R-365-18

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) awarded the DPW Winter Chemicals contract on October 19, 2017 to Innovative Municipal Products (US), Inc. (“Innovative”) for the period of November 1, 2017 through October 31, 2018; and

WHEREAS, Innovative provided a certified check in the amount of $89,600 to cover the 100% performance bond as required by the bid specifications; and

WHEREAS, Innovative has certified that they have successfully fulfilled and completed the contract; and

WHEREAS, the Public Works Director has certified that the contract has been satisfactorily completed; and

WHEREAS, the Township shall now release the performance bond in the amount of $89,600 to Innovative.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that monies in the amount of $89,600 representing the performance bond submitted by Innovative Municipal Products (US), Inc. for the DPW Winter Chemicals contract for the period of November 1, 2017 through October 31, 2018 be released to Innovative Municipal Products (US), Inc.

9. Requesting the Approval of Items of Revenue and Appropriations per NJSA 40A:4-87—Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Year End Holiday Crackdown Grant

R-366-18

WHEREAS, NJSA 40A:4-87 provides that the Director of the Division of Local Government Services may approve the insertion of any special item of revenue in the budget of any county or municipality when such item has been made available by law and the amount was not determined at the time of the adoption of the budget; and

WHEREAS, the Director may also approve the insertion of an item of appropriation for an equal amount.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, hereby requests the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of an item of revenue in the budget of the year 2018 in the sum of $5,500, which is now available from the FY 2018 Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Year-End Holiday Crackdown Grant in the amount of $5,500.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the like sum of $5,500 is hereby appropriated in the 2018 budget under the caption Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Year-End Holiday Crackdown 2018; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the above is the result of funds from the State of the New Jersey Division of Highway Safety’s 2018 Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Year-End Holiday Crackdown Grant in the amount of $5,500.

10. Authorizing the Settlement of Certain Residential and Commercial Tax Appeals for 2017, 2018 and 2019 on Block 146, Lot 72.29—4 Skyline Drive—Mahboob u Bonhi N. Rahman

R-367-18

WHEREAS, appeals of the real property tax assessments of the following property have been filed in the Tax Court of New Jersey:

; and

WHEREAS, the property owners and the Township have agreed to a settlement for the pending appeals; and

WHEREAS, the property owners have agreed to waive pre-judgment interest due on any refunds payable as a result of the proposed settlement provided that the refund is made within sixty (60) days of the date of entry of Judgment by the Tax Court; and

WHEREAS, the settlement of this matter, as set forth herein, is in the best interest of the Township of Randolph and is recommended by the Township Tax Assessor & Special Tax Counsel and should, therefore, be settled pursuant to the terms set forth herein.

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

1. The settlement of the following tax appeals filed at the Tax Court of New Jersey is hereby authorized as follows:

2. Upon receipt of the Tax Court Judgment, the Township Tax Collector is hereby authorized to refund the amount due and to be paid within sixty days of the issuance of the Judgment by the Tax Court of New Jersey.

3. This resolution shall take effect immediately or as otherwise provided by law.

11. Authorizing the Settlement of Certain Residential and Commercial Tax Appeals for 2017, 2018 and 2019 on Block 48, Lot 1.02—1 Fairway to Shyh-Kuan and Lei Chen

R-368-18

WHEREAS, appeals of the real property tax assessments of the following property have been filed in the Tax Court of New Jersey:

; and

WHEREAS, the property owners and the Township have agreed to a settlement for the pending appeals; and

WHEREAS, the property owners have agreed to waive pre-judgment interest due on any refunds payable as a result of the proposed settlement provided that the refund is made within sixty (60) days of the date of entry of Judgment by the Tax Court; and

WHEREAS, the settlement of this matter, as set forth herein, is in the best interest of the Township of Randolph and is recommended by the Township Tax Assessor & Special Tax Counsel and should, therefore, be settled pursuant to the terms set forth herein.

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

1. The settlement of the following tax appeals filed at the Tax Court of New Jersey is hereby authorized as follows:

2. Upon receipt of the Tax Court Judgment, the Township Tax Collector is hereby authorized to refund the amount due and to be paid within sixty days of the issuance of the Judgment by the Tax Court of New Jersey.

3. This resolution shall take effect immediately or as otherwise provided by law.

12. Raffle License, Off-Premise 50/50, Chester PTO, Dickerson School, at the Meadow Wood Manor, 461 Route 10 East, April 12, 2019, 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

13. Raffle License, Tricky Tray, Chester PTO, Dickerson School, at the Meadow Wood Manor, 461 Route 10 East, April 12, 2019, 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

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

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Loveys

H. UPCOMING EVENTS

1. Operation Appreciation—assembly of care packages at Brighton Cromwell, 111 Canfield Avenue, Bld C., Saturday, December 8th from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
2. Library Event—Broadway veteran Karen Luschar: Mistletoe & Holly, Sunday, December 9th at 2:00 p.m. Registration required.
3. Senior Holiday Luncheon, Randolph Community Center, on Tuesday, December 11th from 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
4. Recreation Volunteer Awards, Randolph Community Center, on Tuesday, December 11th at 6:30 p.m.; RSVP to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this e-mail address)
5. Employee Appreciation Breakfast, Wednesday, December 12th, in the Municipal Building Lobby at 9:00 a.m.
6. 2019 Reorganization Meeting, Thursday, January 3rd, at the Municipal Building; light dinner served at 6:00 p.m. followed by reorganization meeting at 7:00 p.m.
7. The Max Challenge Open House, Saturday, January 12th, College Plaza, 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; ribbon cutting at 3:30 p.m.
8. Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at the Community Center, 30 Calais Road, on Wednesday, January 16th at 6:30 p.m.
9. Habitat for Humanity, Hearts and Hammers Gala, Saturday, February 23rd at the Meadow Wood Manor from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. RSVP by 1/23/19 to morrishabitat.org/gala

I. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Jim McConnell or 45 Carrell Road noted that an article was in the Randolph Reporter about the township’s mailbox replacement policy related to snowplowing. He asked whose specifications determined mailbox placement. Manager Mountain replied that it was the Post Office. Mr. McConnell felt it wasn’t right that the township does not replace a mailbox if a resident follows the specifications of the Post Office when placing his mailbox and the township plow knocks it down. He also felt that if the township was to replace a mailbox, it should be equivalent to the one that was knocked down. Mr. McConnell explained that many of the plow operators do a good job, but often they drive very fast down his road. He felt the homeowners should not be responsible for replacing their mailbox if a snowplow operator knocks it down. He commended the plow operators for the jobs they do, but felt they need to be more careful and slow down.

Mayor Forstenhausler explained that the right of way varies. He also explained that the mailbox replacement policy has been the same for many years. Manager Mountain validated Mr. McConnell’s concern about the speed, and said that it will be addressed with the DPW Director and reinforced with the crews. As related to the mailbox replacement policy, the Manager explained that if the mailbox is actually damaged by the truck, the township will replace the mailbox. However, if the weight of the snow causes the damage, the township will look at it and if there is an easy way to fix it, they will repair it. The Manager also addressed the issue of replacing one with an equivalent mailbox, and stated that he doesn’t know of any town that has that policy. Manager Mountain reiterated that they will reinforce the issue of speed with the drivers. Mayor Forstenhausler explained that they are trying to keep communication open and available to residents on all issues, and those types of posts are published on the township website as well as other communication media.

Councilwoman Carey asked if the number of affected residents per year was known. Manager Mountain replied that he would have to look into it, but believed it to be a rather small number, such as 100. Mayor Forstenhausler stated that the policy could be revisited.

Joanne Napoliello of 179 Park Avenue stated that the cars regularly speed on her street; she felt that perhaps the police department could do more traffic patrol on Park Avenue to control the speed of motorists. Manager Mountain stated that he would follow up with Chief Stokoe.

Jim McConnell thanked Councilmen Napoliello and Guadagno for their years of service.

Judith Stewart of 114 Everdale Avenue noted that the budget meetings will be coming up, and she thanked the staff for their hard work on the budgets.

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

J. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilman Guadagno commented that it has been a pleasure working with everyone; he learned a lot over the years. He thanked Ed Buzak, Steve Mountain, and Donna Luciani; he appreciated being able to work with all the Council members and wished everyone well.

Councilman Napoliello commented that he enjoyed his 16 years on the Council. He appreciated working with both township managers John Lovell and Steve Mountain, as well as Attorney Ed Buzak. He also thanked his wife for her support.

Councilman Tkacs attended the Traffic Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting; they reviewed the overnight parking ordinance. Their recommendation was to keep the ordinance as is; they felt that calling to report parking on the street is not an onerous requirement. The Police Department also recommended keeping the ordinance as is for the safety of residents. At the TAC meeting, a resident on Dover Chester Road complained about the speed of cars on the road, although he realized it was a county road. They told the resident that they invited the Morris County Department of Transportation representative to an upcoming TAC meeting, and they would address that topic.

Councilman Tkacs attended the Christmas tree lighting and the Menorah lighting.

Councilman Tkacs thanked Councilmen Guadagno and Napoliello for their time, and explained that he learned a lot from their experience.

Councilwoman Veech asked Manager Mountain about the ash trees; she has had residents ask her if the County would be paying to have the trees taken down or if they need to pay for it themselves, and what the township is doing about the situation. She asked the Manager to research the issue and suggested providing residents with a notice as to the township’s position and what is expected of the County. Manager Mountain replied that if the ash tree is in the County right of way or on County parkland where it might create a dangerous situation, the County would remove it. The township also has money budgeted, and is looking at ash trees in the rights of way as well as those adjacent to trails and roadways in the parks. JCP&L is also aggressively removing ash trees while they are trimming and removing trees in the township. If the tree is on private property, it is the property owner’s responsibility to remove it. Manager Mountain explained that an article was in the Quarterly last summer, and provided residents with tips for preventative action. He added that residents can contact his office if there is an ash tree on township or county property; he has also asked township staff while they are out in the field to identify areas where there are ash trees in the rights of way.

Councilwoman Veech reported that she and Councilman-elect Lou Nisivoccia went to the holiday party at Brightview. They also went to a holiday party at John Herold Jewelers.

Councilwoman Veech also reported that she attended the community garden meeting; they are planning to host some library programs on gardening. There is a Facebook page now for the community garden, Randolph Community Garden. They will be having a combined meeting with the Parks Committee on January 8th where the construction of Veterans Community Park will be discussed; Paul Ferriero will lead the discussion.

Councilwoman Veech thanked Councilman Guadagno for his time and service; she commented that they sometimes had opposing views, but she appreciated his perspective and learned a lot from him. Councilwoman Veech thanked Councilman Napoliello for his time and service; she commented that most people don’t realize what is involved and the time away from other things. Councilwoman Veech also thanked and commended Mayor Forstenhausler for his year as mayor.

Councilwoman Carey thanked Councilmen Napoliello and Guadagno for all of their work and dedication to the township. She also thanked and commended Mayor Forstenhausler for his year as mayor. Councilwoman Carey also thanked the families of the councilmen and mayor.

Mayor Forstenhausler thanked Councilman Guadagno for his eight years of service, and Councilman Napoliello for his 16 years of service. He concurred with the others that a lot has been learned from the two of them over the years. The Mayor invited the councilmen to the reorganization meeting.

Mayor Forstenhausler attended the Christmas tree lighting and the Menorah lighting; both were good events. He commented on the similar theme of light overcoming darkness throughout our diverse community celebrations over the past month of Diwali, Hanukkah, and Christmas as well as the advent candles being lit at Catholic churches. He appreciated being invited to all of the events, and enjoyed participating in them.

Mayor Forstenhausler noted that there has been a lot of television coverage of the passing of the 41st President of the United States, George W. Bush. He commented on the patriotism and service of George W. Bush, and asked for a moment of silence.

Councilman Napoliello thanked Donna Luciani and felt that she did an excellent job.

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:

Review Nominations for Outstanding Volunteer Award
Teamsters Contract
Personnel

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

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

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to move into Executive Session at 8:20 p.m. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Loveys

Councilman Napoliello made a motion to close the Executive Session at 9:10 p.m. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Loveys

L. ADJOURNMENT

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

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Loveys