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

Minutes: June 16, 2015

A. OPENING OF COMBINED 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. This meeting date change to June 16, 2015 was emailed to the Randolph Reporter on June 9, 2015, and advertised on June 11, 2015.

2. Roll Call

PRESENT:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

Also present: Township Manager Mountain, Ed Buzak from the Law Office of Edward Buzak, Officer Melissa Bailey, FOP Representatives Rich Biase and Danny Schick, Township Labor Counsel Art Thibault, Police Chief David Stokoe, and Lieutenant Harzula.

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Veech led the Pledge of Allegiance.

B. APPOINTMENTS

1. Appointing Student Liaison to the Board of Health—Lauren Forstenhausler

Deputy Mayor Hirniak made a motion to appoint Lauren Forstenhausler as a Student Liaison to the Board of Health. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

2. Appointing Student Liaison to the Recreation Committee—Alexis Gihorski

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to appoint Alexis Gihorski as a Student Liaison to the Recreation Committee. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

C. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Judith Stewart of 114 Everdale Road stated that she would be leaving early to attend the Board of Education meeting.

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

D. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

Liquor License Approvals—they are required to be completed in June. Several Liquor License applications have not yet been received, and several others are pending tax clearance from the state. The Council needs to act on the applications before June 30th. He suggested a public meeting by phone to avoid meeting for a single agenda item; he suggested a special meeting on June 30th, time to be determined.
Officer Brian Brenckman has received notice that his Naval Reserve Unit is going to be deployed to Afghanistan later this summer; the scheduled report date for duty is August 28th, with an approximate return date of May 19, 2016.
Road Resurfacing—DPW and the contractor have begun milling and paving work; it will continue for several weeks. This is part of the 2015 Capital Road Projects.
Two DPW Retirements—Rich Smith and Joe Kott, two long-time employees, will be retiring at the end of July. The process to fill the positions has begun; it is expected that the positions will be filled by early August. The last two positions vacated by retirements were not filled as a result of the transition of the recycling program.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak asked if there was an update on the Dover Chester Road county project. Manager Mountain reported that the information was supplied to the county; it is currently in the design phase. The county advised the Manager that they would provide a map showing the redesign as soon as it is available, and for sharing with the Council. He expects to receive it toward the end of July.

E. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES

1. Approval of Regular and Executive Minutes of the May 21, 2015 Meeting

Councilman Loveys made a motion to approve the Regular and Executive Meeting Minutes from May 21, 2015. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

F. DISCUSSION

1. Update of Fire Department Installation Dinner—Steve Cohrs

Mayor Veech introduced Fire Chief Steve Cohrs.

Steve Cohrs introduced Deputy Chief Tony Moschella. He explained that they approached Meadow Wood Manor at their 2014 Installation Dinner about their dinner for 2015; they were unable to accommodate them due to a previously scheduled event. They asked to discuss opportunities for 2016, but the staff at Meadow Wood Manor wasn’t ready to discuss 2016. Chief Cohrs explained that they then looked into other venues; they knew they could get into Zeris since they’ve had the event there in the past. They went to Picatinny Arsenal since they have attended other events there which were very nice, and affordable. The pricing between Picatinny and Zeris was fairly equivalent, and they were lower than what they were paying at Meadow Wood Manor. He reminded the Council that they had provided a small amount of money to help fund the Installation Dinner at the Meadow Wood Manor in 2014 since they’re funds were insufficient. They liked what they saw when they met with staff at Picatinny Arsenal; they also found out that they take the net revenue and they donate that to active service members that are returning from overseas. Chief Cohrs made a request to the Council to have their Installation Dinner at Picatinny Arsenal on November 14, 2015.

Mayor Veech asked the Council for any discussion. Councilman Guadagno stated he felt it was a great idea. Deputy Mayor Hirniak stated that it made sense from a financial perspective.

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to accept Fire Chief Cohrs’ proposal for the 2015 Installation Dinner to be held at Picatinny Arsenal. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

2. FOP Grievance—3rd Step

Manager Mountain noted that Officer Melissa Bailey, FOP Representatives Rich Biase and Danny Schick, Township Labor Counsel Art Thibault, Police Chief David Stokoe, and Lieutenant Harzula were all present. The Manager provided the following background:

The Council received a letter from the Manager with copies of the full grievance, and also provides the response to the grievance on the first two levels.
Under the contract, the first level of the grievance is responded to by the Police Chief. The second level of the grievance is responded to by the Township Manager.
The grievance focuses on a written reprimand issued to Officer Bailey on April 15, 2015. The grievance asserts that the reprimand issued to Officer Bailey for not generating a concise and well written report is unjust since the reprimand lists the event date as November 11, 2014 and not October 31, 2014. The grievance further contends that the reprimand is untimely since the event in question occurred on October 31, 2014, and the reprimand was not issued until April 15, 2015.
The Council has been provided with the full denial that was provided by Chief Stokoe, as well as the Manager’s response also upholding that denial.
The genesis of the denial:
- The grievance was rejected on the basis that it was submitted by the FOP in a timeframe that was viewed as untimely, as the reprimand was issued on April 15, 2015, and the notice of the grievance was not provided until April 29, 2015. The collective bargaining agreement indicates that the party should present the grievance in writing, signed by the grieved party within 10 calendar days. However, that notwithstanding, as you saw in the grievance response, the response went on to state in furtherance that the grievance was rejected on the following additional points:
  - The allegation that the reprimand utilized the wrong incident date was found to be misleading. The November 11, 2014 date was utilized in the reprimand as that was the date the internal affairs was notified of the issue with Officer Bailey’s report. The body of the reprimand is clear in its indication the date of the incident was October 31, 2014.
  - The 45 day rule on which the FOP is claiming the reprimand is untimely, was found to be inapplicable to reprimands. Even if it was applicable, it does not require an agency to complete an investigation and issue discipline within 45 days of the event or within 45 days of the department’s notice of the same. Rather, the statute requires the discipline to be issued when the individual issuing the discipline has sufficient information to act. It was on that basis that the denial was issued and upheld at the Manager’s level.

Manager Mountain stated that with this background, and the more detailed background shared in the Council letter, he turned the matter over to the Council for their consideration and action.

Attorney Ed Buzak stated that Officer Bailey was given a RICE notice. A RICE notice is a notice which is given to an individual whose employment issues may be discussed in closed session. It gives the employee the opportunity to request that it be done in open session as opposed to closed session. While they do not have the right to be in closed session, they do have a right to demand that the Council discuss it in open session. That notice was provided by the Township Clerk on June 2, 2015, and Miss Bailey responded on June 3, 2015 indicating that she wanted the matter to be discussed in the open session portion of the meeting in which she and others would attend. This is normally discussed in closed session, but the employee always has the right to demand that it be done in open session. Attorney Buzak then turned the discussion over to Attorney Thibault.

Mayor Veech asked the Council members if they had the opportunity to review the materials and the correspondence that was sent. She asked if any Council members had questions regarding the matter. Deputy Mayor Hirniak stated that he felt the record was very concise. There were no questions from the Mayor and Council. Mayor Veech asked for a motion, and asked Attorney Thibault to clarify what the motion would be.

Attorney Art Thibault explained that the question before the Council is either to grant the grievance or to deny the grievance.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak explained that the Council sits as a step three review panel, and Officer Bailey, as he understands it, is within her rights to grieve this up to the Council having been dissatisfied with steps one and two. The Deputy Mayor stated that in looking at the letter from the FOP dated April 29th, which indicates two areas of grievance, and based upon the record that’s been presented, he didn’t see any errors in fact or at law with steps one or two.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak made a motion to deny the grievance. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

G. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

Item #1, Public Space Bonus Grant application—Councilman Loveys asked how the recycling containers are going to differ from what is currently in the parks. Manager Mountain explained that, as he understands it, they are divided in two sections, half is for trash and half is for recycling; it encourages recycling.

Item #2, LOSAP benefits—Councilman Guadagno asked if this needs to be done yearly. Manager Mountain explained that the benefits need to be certified each year.

Item #7, Professional Services Agreement for Municipal Building HVAC—Councilman Loveys asked why there was a $3,000 increase. Manager Mountain explained that the contractor has done additional work due to a few complications with the project once they got into it; there was additional work in the balancing of the system as well as the upgrades to the boilers.

Item #9, Trailer mounted sewer jet—Councilman Guadagno asked if this piece of equipment would be shared with other towns. Manager Mountain said it would not be shared. It will be used on a regular basis, at least weekly, and it is needed 24/7 in case of emergency. It is replacing a unit that the township currently has. Councilman Guadagno suggested that if it is ever loaned to another town, that Randolph staff operate it.

Councilman Loveys explained that he and Manager Mountain shared emails about the sewer jet prior to the meeting. He stated that his recollection was that money was budgeted a couple of years ago for a Vac truck; however, the Vac truck was never purchased. Manager Mountain explained that that budgeted money was never used, and this is still being spent against that Ordinance. This amount is lower than what was in the Ordinance so once the sewer jet is purchased, the remainder of the money in the Ordinance will be cancelled and returned to Capital Surplus. Manager Mountain stated that this equipment is being purchased for the purpose in which the Vac truck was going to be purchased.

Item #12—Kensington Square project, TWA—Councilman Loveys asked for clarification; what it is expected to look like. Manager Mountain explained that the exact design, and the way in which it will be handled on site will be a matter of further discussion; the township would have to consent to it via the plan. This Resolution allows the developer to move forward and get their application, with the township’s endorsement, to DEP. The plan is conditional, as is the number of units allowed to connect in, and the township would still have to approve both.

Councilman Guadagno stated that he had some concerns about Item #12, and would have to review the details; he didn’t understand why this came up. Manager Mountain stated that he thought it had to do with the developer’s ability to get financing for the project. He agreed with the Councilman that they will have to pay attention to the details, and that is why the review of the plan will be critical. The Manager and Township Engineer spoke with Attorney Buzak and they felt this was a necessary step, and it will possibly give greater control in getting the project done in a timely fashion.

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

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

1. Authorizing Endorsement of Submitting the Public Space Bonus Grant Application to the NJ DEP for the Sole Purpose of Purchasing Recycling Containers for Designated Public Spaces

R-155-15

WHEREAS, The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has announced a $400,000 “Bonus” grant program that will provide targeted grants for recycling initiatives in three areas: food waste recycling, scrap tire removal and recycling in public spaces. Bonus grants will be made available to local governments (municipalities and counties) and to county institutions (colleges, health care and corrections facilities). This program is funded through the Recycling Tax established in the “Recycling Enhancement Act.”

WHEREAS, It is the intent and the spirit of the Recycling Enhancement Act, to use a portion of this fund to provide bonus grants for more recycling opportunities in public spaces; and

WHEREAS, The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has promulgated recycling regulations to implement the Public Spaces Bonus Recycling Grants; and

WHEREAS, The recycling regulations impose on municipalities certain requirements as a condition for applying for bonus grants, including but not limited to, making and keeping accurate, verifiable records of the public space locations where containers will be utilized, population to be served and weight of materials collected and recycled; and

WHEREAS, A resolution authorizing this municipality to apply for the Public Space Bonus Grant will memorialize the commitment of this municipality to recycling and to indicate the assent of Randolph Township Council to the efforts undertaken by the municipality and the requirements contained in the Recycling Act and recycling regulations; and

WHEREAS, Such a resolution should designate the individual authorized to ensure the application is properly completed and timely filed.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Randolph Township Council that Randolph Township hereby endorses the submission of the Public Space Bonus Grant application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the monies received from the Public Space Bonus Grant be used solely for the purposes of purchasing recycling containers for designated public spaces.

2. 2014 LOSAP Benefit to be Paid in 2015—Volunteer Fire Department and Randolph Rescue Squad

R-156-15

WHEREAS, the Randolph Township Fire Department as well as the Randolph Rescue Squad have submitted the attached list of volunteers who qualify for the 2014 LOSAP Benefit, which is paid in 2015; and

WHEREAS, these lists have been reviewed by the Director of Finance and found to be accurate.

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:

Both the Fire Department and the Randolph Rescue Squad shall post their lists in their administrative offices for a period of 30 days to allow sufficient time for membership review.
Both lists shall also be posted at the office of the Township Clerk while the Fire Department list shall be posted at each township fire station.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.

3. Cancelling the 2014 Road Program Balance in Ordinance #14-14

R-158-15

WHEREAS, the General Capital Improvement Authorization balance in Ordinance #14-14 remains dedicated to the 2014 road program project that is now complete; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to formally cancel any remaining balance.

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 balance in the 2014 road program in Ordinance #14-14.

4. Authorizing Full Refund of Cancelled Class Due to Lack of Enrollment in Brundage Playhouse Budding Stars Program to Krishna Mehta—$380.00

R-159-15

WHEREAS, Krishna Mehta registered her child for Brundage Playhouse Budding Stars program and paid the fee of $380.00; and

WHEREAS, her child will not be attending Brundage Playhouse Budding Stars program due lack of enrollment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Russ Newman, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services that $380.00 be refunded to Krishna Mehta, 28 Fairfield Ave., Randolph, NJ 07869.

5. Authorizing Full Refund of Cancelled Summer Artworks Class Due to Lack of Enrollment to Tracy Esposito—$350.00

R-160-15

WHEREAS, Tracy Esposito registered her child for Summer Artworks program and paid the fee of $350.00; and

WHEREAS, her children will not be attending Summer Artworks, Week # 2 -Session #2, due to lack of registrants

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Russ Newman, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services that $350.00 be refunded to Tracy Esposito, 8 Matthew Court, Randolph, NJ 07869.

6. Amending a Professional Services Agreement with Robert Michaels Associates for Planning Services for the Affordable Housing Program—Time Extension to June 30, 2016 with No Cost Increase from Original Contract of $15,000

R-161-15

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) adopted Resolution 196-12 on June 28, 2012 awarding a professional services agreement to Robert Michaels and Associates for planning services for the affordable housing program for $15,000 for the period of June 28, 2012 through June 27, 2013; and

WHEREAS, the project is still not complete through no fault of the contractor; and

WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Administrator has determined that the contract with Robert Michael and Associates for planning services for the affordable housing program should be extended through June 30, 2016; and

WHEREAS, the original contract amount of $15,000 will not increase as a result of this time extension.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that the professional services agreement awarded to Robert Michaels and Associates for planning services for the affordable housing program be extended to June 30, 2016 with no increase in the award amount.

7. Amending a Professional Services Agreement with Strunk-Albert Engineering for Mechanical Engineering Services for the Municipal Building HVAC Upgrade Project—Time Extension to December 31, 2015 with a Cost Increase of $3,000 Bringing Total Cost to $31,900

R-162-15

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) adopted Resolution 210-13 on June 27, 2013 awarding a professional services agreement to Strunk-Albert Engineering for mechanical engineering services for the Township of Randolph Municipal Building HVAC Upgrade Project for $28,900 for the period of June 27, 2013 through June 26, 2014; and

WHEREAS, the project has taken longer than anticipated and is still not completed; and

WHEREAS, the Engineer has determined that the contract with Strunk-Albert Engineering should be extended through December 31, 2015; and

WHEREAS, the Engineer has determined that the agreement amount should be increased by an additional $3,000 to cover additional costs for a contract total of $31,900.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that the professional services agreement awarded to Strunk-Albert Engineering for mechanical engineering services for the Township of Randolph Municipal Building HVAC Upgrade Project be extended to December 31, 2015 and increased by $3,000 for a total contract amount of $31,900.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: June 16, 2015

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 #12-13, Improvements to Municipal-owned Property account, to amend a contract with Strunk-Albert engineering for mechanical engineering services.

__________________________________
Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 04-215-55-954-303 (not to exceed $3,000)

8. Authorizing Mayor to Execute the Municipal Shared Defense Agreement to Allow Randolph to Participate in a Joint Municipal Consortium to Collectively Obtain Information Regarding the Development of Housing Obligations that May Be Used in Planning and in Litigation Associated with the Filing of a Declaratory Judgment Action in Accordance with In the Matter of the Adoption of N.J.A.C. 5:96 and 5:97 by the New Jersey Council on Affordable Housing 221 N.J. 1 (2015)

R-163-15

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph has filed or anticipates filing a Declaratory Judgment Action in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris County in furtherance of the Supreme Court’s March 10, 2015 decision captioned In re Adoption of N.J.A.C. 5:96 & 5:97 by N.J. Council on Affordable Housing, 221 N.J. 1 (2015) (the “Supreme Court Decision”); and

WHEREAS, Fair Share Housing Center (“FSHC”), through the services of David Kinsey, has prepared what it considers to be the statewide fair share numbers (the “FSHC Numbers”) for use by the 15 vicinage Mt. Laurel Judges to calculate a municipality’s affordable housing obligation pursuant to the Supreme Court Decision; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph desires to participate in the preparation of a statewide fair share analysis to be undertaken by Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (“Rutgers”), through Dr. Robert W. Burchell, Principal Investigator, and various other experts employed by Rutgers in order to establish a rational and reasonable methodology (the “Burchell Fair Share Analysis”) for determination of a municipality’s obligation to provide a realistic opportunity through its land use ordinances for its fair share of the region’s affordable housing needs in accordance with the Mount Laurel Doctrine as set forth in In the Matter of the Adoption of N.J.A.C. 5:96 and 5:97 by the New Jersey Council on Affordable Housing, 221 N.J. 1 (2015) (“Decision”) and prior decisions of the Courts of New Jersey, and the Fair Housing Act, N.J.S.A. 52:27D-301 et. seq.; and

WHEREAS, Rutgers, utilizing Dr. Burchell as the Principal Investigator and author has agreed to prepare the Burchell Fair Share Analysis within 90 days of being retained to establish his view of the proper way to determine each municipality’s fair share obligation; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Burchell estimates the cost to prepare the initial Burchell Fair Share Analysis will be $70,000; and

WHEREAS, it is anticipated that there will be a need for Dr. Burchell to analyze any challenges to his conclusions and prepare a rebuttal report to said challenges which is not included in the $70,000; and

WHEREAS, it is anticipated that if each municipality contributes $2,000, there will be sufficient monies to pay the cost to prepare the initial Burchell Fair Share Analysis, to analyze any challenges to the Initial Fair Share Analysis and to Prepare A Rebuttal Report given the number of municipalities that have expressed an interest in retaining Burchell; and

WHEREAS, a Municipal Shared Services Defense Agreement (hereinafter “MSSDA”), has been prepared (a) so that monies can be collected to enter into an agreement with Rutgers (hereinafter “the Rutgers Agreement”) and so that Burchell, along with various other experts from Rutgers, can perform the tasks described above and (b) so that the rights and responsibilities of each municipality that wishes to sign the agreement to retain Rutgers are defined; and

WHEREAS, the MSSDA provides that the Law Offices of Jeffrey R. Surenian and Associates, LLC (“Surenian”) will serve as the administrative entity to sign the Rutgers agreement on behalf of the municipalities that signed the MSSDA and paid the $2,000 fee; and

WHEREAS, it is imperative given the time constraints for municipalities that wish to retain Burchell to sign the MSSDA and pay the $2,000 fee so that Burchell can conduct the necessary analysis; and

WHEREAS, notwithstanding the foregoing, it is possible that the MSSDA may need to be changed as a result of ongoing negotiations with the Rutgers agreement following execution of the MSSDA and the payment of the $2,000 fee; and

WHEREAS, in such an event, any member that objects to the changes that Rutgers may require shall have the opportunity to relinquish membership in the Municipal Group and to receive back the $2,000 payment as more specifically set forth in the MSSDA.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, as follows:

The terms and conditions of the MSSDA attached hereto are hereby approved, ratified and confirmed.
The amount of $2,000 is hereby authorized to be expended by the Township of Randolph for Rutgers through Dr. Robert Burchell, Principal Investigator to prepare the Burchell Fair Share Analysis.
A certification of funds authorizing the aforesaid expenditure has been signed by the Chief Financial Officer of the Township of Randolph and is appended hereto.
The Mayor be and is hereby authorized to execute the aforesaid MSSDA to memorialize the participation of the Township of Randolph in the preparation of the Burchell Fair Share Analysis and to take any and all actions reasonably required to effectuate said Agreement.
The Township of Randolph hereby authorizes Jeffrey R. Surenian, Esq. to execute on behalf of the Township of Randolph the Research Agreement with Rutgers to initiate and complete Burchell Fair Share Analysis and to do such other actions to effectuate the purposes of said Research Agreement.
If further changes to the MSSDA are needed as a result of finalizing the Rutgers Agreement, within ten (10) days of notification by Surenian of the changes, the Township of Randolph will inform Surenian if it objects to the changes and wishes to withdraw from the Municipal Group and obtain a refund of the $2000 it paid.
This Resolution shall take effect immediately.

9. Awarding a Contract for the Purchase of New 2015 or Newer O’Brien 704030-SC or Equivalent Trailer-Mounted 700 Gallon Sewer Jet from W.E. Timmerman Co.—$85,800

R-164-15

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph advertised for the Purchase of One (1) New, Unused 2015 or Newer O’Brien 704030-SC or Equivalent Trailer-Mounted 700 Gallon Sewer Jet project in accordance with Local Public Contracts Law and received bids on May 20, 2015; and

WHEREAS, 2 bids were received; and

WHEREAS, bids were received from the following and for the bid prices listed:

Jack Doheny Companies, Inc., Northville, MI—Base Bid: $76,820; and
W.E. Timmerman Co., Inc., Whitehouse, NJ—Base Bid: $85,800; and

WHEREAS, the Engineering/W&S Administrator reviewed the bids and it was determined that the bid submitted by Jack Doheny Companies, Inc. does not comply with the specifications and therefore must be rejected; and

WHEREAS, the Engineering/W&S Administrator reviewed the bid from W.E. Timmerman Co., Inc. and determined that their bid does comply with the specifications; and

WHEREAS, the Engineering/W&S Administrator recommends the award of the contract to W.E. Timmerman Co., Inc. as the lowest responsive, responsible bidder; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph desires to award a contract for the Purchase of One (1) New, Unused 2015 or Newer O’Brien 704030-SC or Equivalent Trailer-Mounted 700 Gallon Sewer Jet to W.E. Timmerman Co., Inc. of Whitehouse, NJ.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that a contract be awarded to W.E. Timmerman Co., Inc. of Whitehouse, NJ for the Purchase of One (1) New, Unused 2015 or Newer O’Brien 704030-SC or Equivalent Trailer-Mounted 700 Gallon Sewer Jet project for the price of $85,800 per their bid proposal.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: June 16, 2015

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 Sewer Capital Fund, Ordinance #14-13, Sewer Jet Vac account, to award a contract to WE Timmerman Co. for the purchase of one brand new 700 gallon sewer jet, in response to a township solicitation for bids.

__________________________________
Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 08-215-55-908-302 (not to exceed $85,800)

10. Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Personal Property No Longer needed for Public Use on an Online Auction Website and-or Other Government Agencies

R-165-15

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph has determined that the property described on Schedules A, B, C & D attached hereto and incorporated herein is no longer needed for public use; and

WHEREAS, other governmental agencies have expressed a potential interest in some of the vehicles/equipment for sale; and

WHEREAS, the Local Unit Technology Pilot Program and Study Act (P.L. 2001, c. 30) authorizes the sale of surplus personal property no longer needed for public use through the use of an online auction service; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph intends to utilize the online auction services of USGovBid located at usgovbid.com for most of the items; and

WHEREAS, the sale is being conducted pursuant to the Division of Local Government Services’ Local Finance Notice 2008-9.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph in the County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that the Township is hereby authorized to sell the surplus personal property as indicated on Schedules A, B, C & D on an online auction website entitled usgovbid.com and/or to other governmental agencies; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the terms and conditions of the agreement entered into between USGovBid and the Township of Randolph are available at usgovbid.com and in the Township of Randolph Clerk’s office.

11. Release of Police Detail Escrow to Randolph Education Foundation—$650.16

R-166-15

WHEREAS, the Finance Department received escrow funds for Police Detail.

WHEREAS, the Detail work has been completed.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, Morris County, New Jersey that it is recommended by the Finance Department that the escrow funds for the following amounts be refunded:

Randolph Education Foundation $650.16

12. Authorizing Manager to Endorse the Application to NJDEP for the Kensington Square at Randolph Project—Block 101, Lots 21 and 22—Treatment Works Approval—TWA

R-167-15

WHEREAS, Kensington Square at Randolph, (the “Applicant”) has submitted to the Township of Randolph (the “Township”) an application for the construction of a temporary sanitary sewer holding tank to service the applicant’s property, Lots 21 and 22, Block 101, on the Official Tax Map of the Township of Randolph (the “Property”) for premises situated on Old Shunpike Road, Randolph, New Jersey; and

WHEREAS, the applicant has requested that the Township endorse said application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP); and

WHEREAS, the applicant has obtained a Treatment Works Approval for a sanitary sewer main to service the project and the effluent from the system will flow through the Township’s sewer system and through a portion of the Morris Township sanitary sewer system; and

WHEREAS, Morris Township has determined that the additional flow from the applicant’s project will have a negative impact on their sanitary sewer collection system because of that system’s marginal capacity and has therefore informed the applicant and the Township that Morris Township will not permit any flow from the Property until such time as the Sussex Turnpike Interceptor Project (the “Interceptor”) construction is complete and operational; and

WHEREAS, the Interceptor will take a up to 12 months to complete and the Applicant wishes to allow occupancy of a portion of it development project on the Property before the construction is complete; and

WHEREAS, the Township recognizes that some occupancy of the project is important to allow the Interceptor project to proceed more quickly; and

WHEREAS, the only means to provide sanitary sewer service for any portion of the Applicant’s project before the Interceptor is complete is to install a temporary holding tank; and

WHEREAS, the terms and conditions of the use of the tank will be subject to the sanitary sewer agreement between the Township and the Applicant the terms of which will contain the number of units permitted for occupancy, the length of the service of the temporary tank, etc.; and

WHEREAS, the application must be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to obtain a TWA approval for the construction of the temporary sewer holding tank for this project; and

WHEREAS, the holding tank for the project site will be operated and maintained by the developer; and

WHEREAS in order for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to consider the application, the same must be endorsed by the Township among others; and

WHEREAS the Township desires to authorize the execution of the endorsement of the said application,

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

The Township Manager is herby authorized and directed to execute the appropriate endorsements for the Treatment Works Approval, together with other appropriate officers and employees of the Township of Randolph, and hereby authorized to take all actions necessary to effectuate the purpose.
This resolution shall take effect immediately.

H. UPCOMING EVENTS

Council Only—Realtor Meeting and Luncheon—June 17th at noon
Revaluation Public Meeting—June 23rd at 7 p.m. in the Municipal Building
Multi-Chamber Networking Event—Wednesday, June 24th at 11:30 a.m. at Skylands. Reservations recommended.
Freedom Festival at CCM—July 2nd to July 4th; parade at noon on July 3rd and fireworks that evening. Ken Daneyko will be the Grand Marshall of the parade.
Animal Shelter Annual Garage Sale—June 20th from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 173 Morris Turnpike.

I. ORDINANCES: INTRODUCTION

1. Bond Ordinance #13-15: Providing for Improvements to the Real Property Located at 42 Bennett Avenue by Township of Randolph, Appropriating $2,000,000 Therefore, Including $1,000,000 from the Township’s Housing Development Trust Fund and a Grant in the Amount of $600,000 Expected to be Received from Habitat for Humanity, and Authorizing the Issuance of $380,000 Bonds or Notes of the Township to Finance Part of the Cost Thereof

Manager Mountain explained that this is the Ordinance funding EA Porter as discussed in the Capital Plan. Funding is coming from several sources including the Township’s Capital Fund, the Township’s Housing Development Trust Fund, and $600,000 from Habitat for Humanity. The estimates for this project have been tweaked multiple times, but there are some elements that are a range of cost because it deals with remedial actions on subsurface conditions. In putting together the Ordinance, the middle range has been used. If needed, there is a reserve of additional housing funds that were not put into this Ordinance. The Manager explained that this project is unlike any development activity that is typically done; it is part a straightforward development project, but it is also a brown field remediation. Design specifications are currently being developed for the demolition of the building, which is the one element of the project that will happen this year. Once the demolition is complete, the remediation will begin. Under the agreement with Habitat for Humanity, the township is obligated to do everything short of putting up the units themselves; the township will complete all the site work including the footing and foundations of the buildings. The reason for doing it this way, is that the site has to be fully capped in order to satisfy the DEP and for the township to get the approval letter from the DEP allowing the new development to continue. Habitat for Humanity is currently reviewing the Memorandum of Understanding that was revised from the original to reflect the $600,000 contribution as well as a few other changes. It is expected to be ready for execution at the next Council meeting. This Ordinance will allow for the bids to move forward for the demolition. The project will be done in phases so the project isn’t tied down to one developer; the initial phase of the project will be out for demolition only, and then the site work will be a second phase. The cleanup work is being overseen by Ecol Sciences. After the Ordinance is adopted, the Council will receive Ecol Sciences proposal for execution.

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 42 BENNETT AVENUE BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH, APPROPRIATING $2,000,000 THEREFOR, INCLUDING $1,000,000 FROM THE TOWNSHIP’S HOUSING DEVELOPMENT TRUST FUND AND A GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $600,000 EXPECTED TO BE RECEIVED FROM HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $380,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF” 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 9th of July 2015 at 5:00 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.

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

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

2. Ordinance #14-15: An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $100,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Retaining Wall Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that this Ordinance is appropriating supplemental funds for the retaining wall project. The bids for the project came in approximately $50,000 higher than estimated, predominantly due to the cost of the wall materials; there were about six bidders. A prior year’s road overlay Ordinance was cancelled, and are re-appropriating through this Ordinance for the differential. It also allows the project to move ahead on the design work for the next set of wall projects for 2016; they want to ensure they are in position to have a recommendation for the 2016 budget. The Manager explained that as the Council is aware, the walls had an important, time sensitivity to them and the township wanted to move forward on the project rather than defer them to next year to add funding. Manager Mountain is satisfied with the contractor. He explained that the economy is pushing the bid prices a little higher than a couple of years ago when the contractors were looking for work.

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $100,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR RETAINING WALL IMPROVEMENTS” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Councilman Guadagno asked if this Ordinance covers all three properties; Manager Mountain stated it does.

Councilman Forstenhausler asked if the agreements from the other two homeowners were completed. Manager Mountain reported that one was signed, one was in, and the third hasn’t yet been returned.

Councilman Loveys stated that he thought this project was originally set out to bond, and now this is cash. Manager Mountain explained that Councilman Loveys was correct, but since it was mid-year, he didn’t want to add any more debt to this year’s capital and the cash was available.

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

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

3. Ordinance #15-15: Accepting the Dedication of Heritage—Block 47, Lots 12.17 and 27.29 Located within the Township of Randolph for Municipal Public Purposes

Manager Mountain explained that this Ordinance is another step closer to closing the Heritage 55 development and dedication of lots. There were a number of lots associated with the Heritage 55 development that were originally an SJC, Sal Campo, development that were required to be completed as part of that development approval. The township received a good portion of the former golf course property and formed the 90 acres through dedication about a year and a half ago. This Ordinance accepts the dedication of two other pieces of Open Space associated with that development, lots 12.17 and 27.29; there was a key map distributed with the Ordinance. On the key map, they are parcels 5 & 6. Manager Mountain explained that there were a number of items, both legal and physical, that had to be dealt with on these properties before the township could accept title. That has all been done, and reviewed by the Zoning Officer, and Tiena Cofoni of Ed Buzak’s office; they are satisfied that all is complete. It was agreed between the township and Sal Campo, that rather than hold up this dedication, it would be moved forward. There are still a couple of remaining pieces that are still to come.

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH ACCEPTING THE DEDICATION OF BLOCK 47, LOTS 12.17 AND 27.29 LOCATED WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH FOR MUNICIPAL PUBLIC PURPOSES” 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 30th of July 2015 at 7:00 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.

Councilman Guadagno asked if the items previously on the properties have been removed. He expressed his concern that they may move back onto the properties, and asked if there was anything in place to monitor the properties. Manager Mountain reported that Darren Carney had walked the properties and all items had been removed. He will review with Darren Carney and his staff the need to go back and monitor the properties from time to time.

Councilman Loveys asked if Cherokee Lake is on that piece of property and the Manager said it is on one of the two parcels. The Councilman commented that he’s never been on the property, but he has been on the cul-de-sac and said the lake is very nice. He suggested that perhaps in the future, it would be a good addition to the trail system. Mayor Veech asked if at some point in the future the Council could go to the properties to see them. Councilman Loveys confirmed with the Manager that the property is land locked, with no access to it. Manager Mountain stated that there is probably more to it than just the easement that they have been negotiating with the Rosenfarbs as one way to get access to it, but there were some other elements envisioned as part of connecting those properties via trail. The Manager reported that he received correspondence that looks like the township will be able to move forward on that easement without any further issues.

Councilman Forstenhausler asked if the lake is entirely on the township property or if it is shared by the surrounding properties. Manager Mountain explained that the lake is adjacent to the property, and he believes it is shared by the other properties. Councilman Forstenhausler stated that he would like to know how much of the lake would be owned by the town once the township accepts the property. Manager Mountain will check on it, and report back to the Council.

Councilman Forstenhausler clarified that the property is land locked, with no access to it except through another resident’s property; Manager Mountain stated that was correct.

Mayor Veech asked if the consultant for the Parks Master Plan will be notified of the additional space that the township is acquiring. Manager Mountain stated he would let the consultant know.

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

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

J. DISCUSSION ITEMS

1. Discussion of 2014 Audit—Bill Schroeder—R-157-15 Certification of Annual Audit

Bill Schroeder reported that Randolph had a financially strong year; he presented highlights from the audit. Mr. Schroeder’s comments and recommendations included:

Fixed asset—there are internal records, just not the way the state needs them.
Two court recommendations—bank reconciliations should be done on a monthly basis throughout the year. The tickets assigned, but not issued report should be kept up to date.

Overall the report was very positive; the fund balance is excellent.

Manager Mountain explained that the court recommendations have been addressed. The Court Administrator is following through with a work plan which is being overseen by Darren Maloney.

Mayor Veech asked Mr. Schroeder if Randolph has the largest fund balance of the Morris County municipalities. Mr. Schroeder stated that he didn’t do an actual study, but he felt Randolph was probably up near the top. Mayor Veech asked when is too much for a fund balance. He explained that school boards have a statutory excess surplus calculation, but municipalities do not; for municipalities, it’s an internal decision for cash flow and operating purposes. The Mayor asked what effect, if any, the revaluation would have on the fund balance. Mr. Schroeder explained that there would be no effect on the overall fund balance.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak asked how rating agencies view the fund balance, and what the township should be careful of. Mr. Schroeder stated that he is not an expert for rating agencies, but it seems the only time they comment on fund balance is when it is too low. The key is to maintain whatever fund balance level is decided upon.

Councilman Forstenhausler asked if paying debt down would be one way of paying down a fund balance. Mr. Schroeder stated that it would, if there was callable debt.

There was some discussion on the future of the 2% tax cap.

R-157-15

Governing Body Certification of the Annual Audit

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A: 5-4 requires the governing body of every local unit to have made an annual audit of its books, accounts and financial transactions, and

WHEREAS, the Annual Report of Audit for the year 2014 has been filed by a Registered Municipal Accountant with the Municipal Clerk pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A: 5-6, and a copy has been received by each member of the governing body; and

WHEREAS, R.S. 52:27BB-34 authorizes the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey to prescribe reports pertaining to the local fiscal affairs; and

WHEREAS, the Local Finance Board has promulgated N.J.A.C. 5:30-6.5, a regulation requiring that the governing body of each municipality shall, by resolution, certify to the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey that all members of the governing body have reviewed, as a minimum, the sections of the annual audit entitled “Comments and Recommendations”; and

WHEREAS, the members of the governing body have personally reviewed, as a minimum, the Annual Report of Audit, and specifically the sections of the Annual Audit entitled “Comments and Recommendations,” as evidenced by the group affidavit form of the governing body attached hereto; and

WHEREAS, such resolution of certification shall be adopted by the Governing Body no later than forty-five days after the receipt of the annual audit, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-6.5; and

WHEREAS, all members of the governing body have received and have familiarized themselves with, at least, the minimum requirements of the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey, as stated aforesaid and have subscribed to the affidavit, as provided by the Local Finance Board; and

WHEREAS, failure to comply with the regulations of the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey may subject the members of the local governing body to the penalty provisions of R.S. 52:27BB-52, to wit:

R.S. 52:27BB-52: A local officer or member of a local governing body who, after a date fixed for compliance, fails or refuses to obey an order of the director (Director of Local Government Services), under the provisions of this Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, may be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both, in addition shall forfeit his office.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, hereby states that it has complied with N.J.A.C. 5:30-6.5 and does hereby submit a certified copy of this resolution and the required affidavit to said Board to show evidence of said compliance.

2. FOP Disease Awareness Initiative

Mayor Veech explained that she had received an email about the FOP (Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva) Awareness Day at Giants Stadium. The group is trying to get townships to create Resolutions or Proclamations on FOP awareness; the Mayor stated she didn’t have an issue with supporting this request. Council members agreed to support the request by creating a Resolution to be passed at the next Council meeting.

K. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Fletcher Moppert, with Jack Doheny Companies, 15 Taylor Road, Wharton stated they represent manufacturers to help provide people with products. They have been working with Randolph Township to provide a jetter unit (Combined Action Resolutions #9, R-164-15). He stated that they were informed that for the awarded bid it would be their competitor, even though they are in compliance with, and exceeding, what the machine can do and they are $10,000 less. Mr. Moppert said he had documentation if they would like to review it. He asked for clarification on why they didn’t receive the award. Manager Mountain stated that the bids from both bidders were reviewed by the Engineer and the Township Attorney. In the opinion of those reviewing the bids, the finding was that the bid that Mr. Moppert referenced was not technically in compliance with the specifications; there was a great deal of detail provided. The Manager stated there was an appeal process offered for that purpose; however, since the Council meeting was not the proper forum to discuss the specifics, Mr. Moppert could arrange for a follow up with the Manager after the meeting.

Dr. Rachel Koshi of 17 Georgian Road asked for clarification regarding the revaluation, and asked if it was true that there wouldn’t be any increase in taxes. Manager Mountain explained that the overall tax base, the taxes received, will not change; how it affects the individual property depends on where a property is relative to the mean of the overall property value for the town. The Manager stated that his explanation was a very brief overview, and encouraged Dr. Koshi to attend the upcoming Revaluation meeting where more detail would be provided. Councilman Forstenhausler suggested that Dr. Koshi take a copy of the summer Quarterly or visit the township website to gain more detailed information.

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

L. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Deputy Mayor Hirniak reported that he, Mayor Veech, Manager Mountain, and Darren Carney began meeting with some of the highest tax paying business entities; they have met with Beta Realty, Center Grove Associates, Skylands, and Bob Carragino (Carco). The Deputy Mayor felt the meetings have been enlightening, productive, and positive.

Deputy Mayor Hirniak also reported that he attended a joint meeting with the Recreation and Parks committees. Prior to the meeting, Russ Newman and Jeanne Montemarano took them to Artworks Studio, Brundage Park Playhouse, and the VFW building. He explained that he had attended productions at the playhouse, but had never been in the area behind the stage. Deputy Mayor Hirniak stated that the tour of the facilities made him more aware of the areas of need. He felt the meeting was very informative, and that the feedback from both committees was very beneficial. It is his hope that whenever there is an opportunity or a need in the future to get a better perspective on something, the Council would continue to view things as an organized body in order to make informed decisions. Mayor Veech agreed and asked Manager Mountain to arrange for some tours for the fall, particularly related to Parks and Recreation. Deputy Mayor Hirniak commended Russ Newman and Jeanne Montemarano for their overall efforts.

Councilman Guadagno reported that the Water Master Plan is still being tweaked. He also reported that he went to the Blue Plains Plant in Washington, DC, and spent a week on bio-solids; he explained some of what is done there and said the plant was incredible.

Councilman Loveys stated that he noticed at the Memorial Day ceremony that the VFW building looked great. He thanked Donna Luciani for all of her effort coordinating the upgrades. The Councilman also reported that he saw John Van Brunt, who was aware of the grant the township will be receiving for the installation of an elevator at the VFW. Mr. Van Brunt suggested the staff and Council visit the VFW building in Cranford where an elevator was recently installed since that building is very similar to the VFW building in Randolph. Manager Mountain stated that the design was based on an elevator that was installed at the Far Hills Municipal Building that was an exterior installation.

Mayor Veech reported that Tom Russo sent her a brochure, “Welcome to Newton, a College Town.” Mr. Russo was proud that the town partnered with their County College and created the brochure. Mayor Veech suggested that Randolph might do something similar with CCM, and asked the Council members to give some thought to how they might approach the college.

Mayor Veech also reported that there are six Student Liaison openings on the boards and committees. Donna Luciani stated that she would notify the Principal at the high school about the openings and ask her to determine if any students, preferably Juniors, were interested. It is hoped that by the end of the summer or early September appointments will be made.

Mayor Veech reported that she received a resignation from Dean Buttafuoco from the Economic Development Committee. She asked the Council to consider farm owner John McAndrew for the committee, or provide suggestions for other business owners to serve. Councilman Guadagno felt that if the EDC would like a farm owner on the board, that all of the farm owners in town be approached to determine their interest.

Mayor Veech stated that Matt Tal had reached out with some options, after his proposal during the Executive Session of the last meeting. Manager Mountain explained that Mr. Tal is interested in exploring other options with the Manager and some representatives from the Council. The Council created a short term work group to work with Matt Tal, the Mayor appointed Councilman Guadagno, Deputy Mayor Hirniak, and Councilwoman Carey to serve.

Manager Mountain reviewed the upcoming Council meetings: June 30 for just liquor licenses, July 9 at 5:00 p.m. with a brief agenda, and July 30 with a full agenda.

M. ADJOURNMENT

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 p.m. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Guadagno
Councilman Loveys
Deputy Mayor Hirniak
Mayor Veech

ABSENT:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None