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

Minutes: June 27, 2019

A. OPENING OF REGULAR MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 5:30 p.m. by Mayor Loveys. This meeting is held pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Adequate notice of the meeting has been provided by posting written notice of the time, date, location, and to the extent known, the agenda of the meeting in Randolph Township. This notice was posted on the bulletin board within Town Hall, it was filed with the Township Clerk, and it was provided to those persons or entities requesting notification. Notice was also provided to the Randolph Reporter and the Morris County Daily Record on November 29, 2018 by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on November 1, 2018. The annual resolution, which included this meeting date, was advertised in the Randolph Reporter, the official newspaper of the Township of Randolph, and the Daily Record on December 6, 2018. The time change for this meeting was emailed to the Randolph Reporter on June 10, 2019 and was advertised in the Randolph Reporter on June 13, 2019.

2. Roll Call

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

Also present: Township Manager Mountain, Darren Carney, Michael Guadagno, Bill Schroeder and Kathy Mantell from Nisivoccia, LLP, and Attorney Ed Buzak from the Buzak Law Group

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Loveys led the Pledge of Allegiance.

B. 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:

* Affordable Housing Litigation Update

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 5:30 p.m. Deputy Mayor Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to close the Executive Session at 6:50 p.m. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

C. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

D. PRESENTATION—BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ANNUAL REPORT

1. Board of Adjustment Annual Report—Darren Carney

Manager Mountain explained that each year the Board of Adjustment adopts an annual report that they present to the Council. He introduced Planning and Zoning Administrator Darren Carney.

Darren Carney explained that the Board of Adjustment (BOA) raised a couple of issues in their annual report:

• Open Porches/Porticos—last year this was a big issue with the bad winters creating ice or water issues. Most of the homes in the township have been constructed at or near the minimum required front yard setback. The township ordinance only allows front steps, terraces or balconies without a roof in the required front yard. A lot of homes were getting water damage in the front door; the BOA had a lot of variance applications for porches/porticos to protect the front of the house. One thought was to allow the encroachment of porticos/porches into the front yard setback. Currently stoops and steps are allowed to encroach, but any roof structure requires a variance.
• Automobile Service Stations—the ordinance does not permit any public garage, gasoline service station or filling station to be used for any other purpose. Of the 10 existing gas stations in the township, the BOA has granted a variance for a convenience store in six of them. They felt that the ordinance might be revised in the future since convenience stores are now a customary accessory to gas stations. Also, the sign requirements for gas stations are contained within the conditional use section of the ordinance. Any diversion from the signage requirements triggers a D3 variance. It may be more appropriate to move the signage requirements to the Signs section of the supplementary zoning regulations portion of the land development ordinance.
• Swimming Pools—in 2004 the Council removed the setback requirements for swimming pools from the Health and Sanitation Code and inserted them into the Land Development Ordinance in order to enable residents a venue to seek relief from the required setbacks to principal structures and property lines. Since there are some technical issues and conflicts that weren’t realized at the time; they would like to clean them up and make them consistent.
• Self Storage Facilities—last year the BOA approved the Metro application next to Midas; they approved one on South Salem Street in the late 1990s and is currently reviewing another one. The BOA felt that, rather than having a prohibited use in all sections of town, get guidance on where the township wants to see self storage facilities be allowed.

Manager Mountain explained that the Council can ask Darren questions, but they were also asking for Council feedback to determine if there was general support for the recommendations. If there was support, they will work to develop draft ordinances or come up with a process such as a master plan review.

Councilman Forstenhausler asked if they were only looking at open porticos or if they could have sides. Darren replied that it would be open porticos to keep the open look on the front of the house, but allow for weather protection for front doors.

Councilwoman Veech noted that on the Memorandum, where it lists the years from 2014 to 2018, there is $86,983.52 for 2018 and asked where the majority of that money came from. Darren replied that it came from self storage facilities; the fees are based upon square footage of the building.

Mayor Loveys stated that he felt everything discussed was reasonable, and asked if the other Council members had any issues with them. Council members were in agreement that township staff and the BOA could proceed accordingly.

E. PRESENTATION—RETIRED COUNCILMAN

1. Recognition of Retired Councilman Michael Guadagno

Mayor Loveys asked Mike Guadagno to join him. The Mayor thanked him on behalf of the Township Council and Township Manager for his years of service to Randolph; he explained all of the boards that Mike had served on over the years. Mayor Loveys also noted that Mike was the Mayor in 2012 during Superstorm Sandy, and worked tirelessly throughout the storm and recovery. His knowledge of the township and its infrastructure was a significant value for the Council; he would take every opportunity to improve and expand the sewer and water systems. Mayor Loveys presented Mike with a clock on behalf of the Township Council, Manager Mountain, and all of the residents of Randolph.

Mike Guadagno explained that none of the things he did, he could have done without the Township Council’s support. During Superstorm Sandy, he called on fellow Council members to help, and he appreciated all their help and support. He thanked the Council members for their service on the Council as well as their help during his tenure.

F. PRESENATION OF AUDIT

1. Presentation of the 2018 Audit—Bill Schroeder

Mayor Loveys introduced Bill Schroeder from Nisivoccia, LLP.

Bill Schroeder stated that Kathy Mantell will be the auditor next year.

Attorney Ed Buzak stated that Councilman Nisivoccia would be recusing himself from participation in the audit.

Mr. Schroeder reported the following:

• The township is consistently excellent.
• The fund balance was up $410,000 to $18,825,000.
• The township used close to $7,000,000 of fund balance as a revenue in the budget. He reminded and cautioned that, when drawing down fund balance, it should be used for non-recurring items.
• The township has a AAA rating due to the excellent budgeting.
• The outstanding debt service—the Green Trust and the Wastewater Trust loans will be paid off this year.
• The debt capacity is about $154,000,000; there is about $130,000,000 left of debt capacity.
• The $20,000,000 of outstanding bonds are around 3%.
• Fixed asset—same recommendation as in past years—it’s important to know the physical location of the assets, and have them accounted for.
• Management suggestion—they always recommend that if Capital Ordinances are more than five years old and there has been little to no activity, they be cancelled or re-appropriated.

Manager Mountain added that the practice has been that he and Darren Maloney review the budget approved capital for a given year, they go back to through the Department Heads open balances on their capital and discuss which ordinances are ready to be retired. This is something they look at regularly.

Mayor Loveys recognized Darren Maloney for his financial management, along with Manager Mountain.

G. PROCLAMATION

1. Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative—“PAARI”

Mayor Loveys introduced Police Officer Richard Biase, and explained that this is a new initiative. He read the proclamation and presented it to Officer Biase:

Supporting the Hope One Project
Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative—“PAARI”

Whereas, the Randolph Township Police Department has announced they will take part in a new initiative, Hope One Project—PAARI (Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative); and

Whereas, the mission is to aid those actively seeking police assistance when struggling with opiate or other substance use disorders to obtain resources and access to treatment; and

Whereas, the Randolph Township PAARI enables police officers to immediately offer a pathway to recovery by providing a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and a safe, private environment to discuss the help needed; and

Whereas, non-judgmental support and immediate and ongoing assistance by a professional Peer Recovery Specialist will have a positive impact on the recovery and healing of an individual as well as their family; and

Whereas, the Randolph Township Police Department partnering with the School District, Inter-Faith Leaders, and the Municipal Alliance Committee recognize the disease of addiction as a nationwide epidemic; and

Whereas, the Randolph Township Council plays a vital role in assisting the Randolph Police Department through joint crime, drug, and violence prevention efforts in the Township of Randolph and is supporting PAARI; and

Whereas, it is essential that all citizens of the Township of Randolph be aware of the importance of drug addiction and crime prevention programs and the impact that addiction recovery and advocacy will have on their quality of life as well as reducing crime, drugs, and violence in the Township of Randolph; and

Now, Therefore, Be It Proclaimed that Randolph Township declares its support for the Police Department and the community groups partnering with them in their implementation of the PAARI and for taking a leadership role in creating a positive impact on individuals and their families struggling with addiction, thus, providing a clear path to recovery.

June 27, 2019
James B. Loveys, Mayor

Officer Biase thanked the Mayor and Council. He explained that this is meant to change the stigma of addiction and get an addicted person the help he needs instead of criminalizing him.

H. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

• Meadowbrook Road Water Line/Road Improvement Project Update—the contractor has completed work on the water line installation and laid the base paving on the section of Meadowbrook Road, from Rickland Drive to Butternut Road. The contractor will be completing the final paving for that section in mid July. The paving/curbing and drainage improvements scheduled for the remaining section of Meadowbrook Road, from Butternut Road to Old Chimney Road, will be conducted under a separate contract as previously discussed. The design plan and specifications for this work are currently being finalized and will be going out to bid in late July. The award for this work is expected in September, and the contractor to complete this section of the project later in the fall, weather permitting.
• Veteran’s Park Update—the contractor for Veterans’ Park has been challenged by the wet spring weather. The weather has held up the final site grading and base work for the parking area. The restroom structure is completed and the finishing work should be completed in the next week or two. The work on the band shell footing just started, with anticipation of the structure being in place in the next couple of weeks; the gazebo structures will also be installed in the coming weeks. The electrical subcontractor is onsite and has begun to install the electrical infrastructure for the parking lot and walking area oval lights. He expects the infrastructure work to continue into August and perhaps early September depending on weather. The contractor was informed that the township does not want the final landscaping and planting to be done until September. He has been meeting regularly with the contractor, Paul Ferriero, Russ Newman, and Darren Carney.

Mayor Loveys reported that he received a compliment about Meadowbrook Road, particularly the road improvement and its intersection with Chimney Road. The resident felt it was a much safer intersection.

Mayor Loveys asked for an update on the Habitat for Humanity project. Manager Mountain explained that the full plan design is complete; the problem is that the site is difficult to plan for for de-watering due to the contamination history. In a couple of areas, there are still high readings. He and Paul Ferriero have met with EcolSciences several times. They have also spoken with the RVRSA and asked to put the water into the sewer system; they would not allow it. EcolSciences said that the local treatment facility in every other county they have worked in has allowed it. The Manager and Paul spoke with the Assistant Engineer in Dover since they had a similar project being redeveloped. He explained what steps Dover took to de-water their site. The township has EcolSciences applying for a permit, and they are building into the specification the de-watering mechanism the contractor will have to follow. They also have EcolSciences doing some additional testing and remediation work at the site. In one small corner of the site they have sometimes gotten higher than acceptable readings, but they have not been consistent. EcolSciences will do more excavation and soil replacement and do follow up testing. If they can get the entire site to have the water test results below the acceptable limits, then they will tell the contractor they can de-water on the site and not have to truck anything off. If water has to be trucked off, it will need to be included in the bid specifications. The township has informed Habitat for Humanity of the situation; they have also contacted the state who granted the township an extension so there won’t be any issues with the permit. It will probably not go out to bid until September. Councilman Nisivoccia asked how long the site work is expected to take; Manager Mountain replied that it will take at least 12-18 months.

I. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES

1. Approving the Regular Council Meeting Minutes for April 18, 2019

Councilwoman Veech made a motion to approve the minutes from the April 18, 2019 regular Council meeting. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

J. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

1. Refund a Tree Bond for 22 Berry Lane for Block 27.02, Lot 21 to Cherry Wnek—$400.00

R-158-19

WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Department received a tree bond posted by Cherry Wnek, 22 Berry Lane, for Block 27.02, Lot 21 in the amount of $400.00; and

WHEREAS, the requirements have been met and completed.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Darren Carney, Planning and Zoning Administrator that the tree bond in the amount of $400.00 be refunded to Cherry Wnek, 22 Berry Lane, Randolph, NJ 07869.

Darren Carney, Planning & Zoning Administrator
Date:

2. Release Cash Road Opening Bond and Road Opening Application Fee for the Purpose of Connecting to the Township Storm Drain at 1 Cornell Drive, Block 93.03, Lot 1 to Jennifer Locke—$700.00

R-159-19

WHEREAS, the Engineering Department has received a request from Jennifer Locke for the release of a $500.00 cash road opening bond and $200.00 road opening application fee posted for the purpose of connecting to the township storm drain at 1 Cornell Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869 (BL93.03/L1); and

WHEREAS, the Road Opening Bond consisted of a $500.00 cash bond and a Road Opening Permit application of a $200.00 fee which was received and deposited with the Finance Department on June 1, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the applicant no longer needed the road opening permit at 1 Cornell Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869; and

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 Wayne A. Corsey, Engineering Administrator that the Cash Road Opening Bond in the amount of $500.00 and the $200.00 Road Opening application fee for a total of $700.00 be refunded to Jennifer Locke at 1 Cornell Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869.

3. Release Cash Road Opening Bond for the Purpose of Connecting to the Township Catch Basin at 9 Morgan Ct., Block 110, Lot 29 to Cedrick Fontes—$500.00

R-160-19

WHEREAS, the Engineering Department has received a request from Cedrick Fontes for the release of a $500.00 cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of connecting to the Township catch basin at 9 Morgan Court, Randolph, NJ 07869 (BL110/L29); and

WHEREAS, the Road Opening Bond consisted of a $500.00 cash bond, which was received and deposited with the Finance Department on April 30, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the Applicant was required to post this cash bond to guarantee the connecting to the township catch basin at 9 Morgan Court, 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 Wayne A. Corsey, Engineering Administrator that the Cash Road Opening Bond in the amount of $500.00 be refunded to Cedrick Fontes at 9 Morgan Court, Randolph, NJ 07869.

4. Cancellation of Outstanding Checks from the General Account—$2,601.00

R-161-19

WHEREAS, the attached list of checks issued in 2017 are currently outstanding; and

WHEREAS, the Finance Department has sent numerous letters with no response; and

WHEREAS, it is recommended by the Finance Director that the checks outstanding from the following accounts be cancelled:

General Account $2,601.00

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, Morris County, New Jersey that the Finance Director be instructed to cancel the attached list of outstanding checks.

5. Liquor License Renewals for the 2019-2020 Season

R-162-19

BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Randolph, Morris County, New Jersey, that the following applications for renewal of alcoholic beverage licenses for the respective premises hereinafter designated, for the 2019-2020 season commencing July 1, 2019 and ending June 30, 2020 be and the same are hereby granted. The fees being as hereinafter listed and the said applicants having complied with all requirements of the Statutes and Rules and Regulations of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control:

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Township Clerk be and is hereby ordered and directed to sign and issue said licenses in the name of the Township of Randolph and to deliver the same to the licensee when receipt is signed by the licensee or the authorized agent to the licensee.

6. Refund a Portion of the $990.00 Teen Camp Program Registration Fee Due to an Unexpected Family Illness—Camila Diaz—$965.00

R-163-19

WHEREAS, Camila Diaz registered her child for the Teen Camp program and paid the fee of $990.00; and

WHEREAS, her child will not be attending due to an unexpected family illness.

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 $ 965.00 be refunded to Camila Diaz, 128 Quaker Church Rd., Randolph, NJ 07869.

7. Authorizing Rescission of Award of a Portion of MCCPC Contract #20-A, Category H for Sporting Goods from Legacy Sports

R-164-19

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph (“Township”) on behalf of the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council (“MCCPC”) sought bids for Contract #20-A (Sporting Goods); and

WHEREAS, bids had been advertised and received on October 4, 2018, in accordance with Local Public Contracts Law; and

WHEREAS, the Randolph Township Council awarded Items #2 through #11, #12, #13, #18, #24, #26, #29 through #31, #40, #44, #53, #55 through #75, and #77 in Category H (Sports Clothing) of Contract #20-A (Sporting Goods) to Legacy Sports, Inc., in Ocala, Florida, as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder on November 29, 2018, for the term January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the MCCPC learned on June 3, 2019, through a third party that BSN Sports acquired Legacy Sports on May 23, 2019; and

WHEREAS, the MCCPC contacted BSN Sports on June 4, 2019, to confirm whether or not BSN Sports would honor the pricing for the items awarded in Contract #20-A to Legacy Sports; and

WHEREAS, in an email dated June 13, 2019, and an email dated June 20, 2019, BSN Sports confirmed that Legacy Sports was no longer in existence and that BSN would not honor the pricing for the items awarded to Legacy Sports in Contract #20-A; and

WHEREAS, Legacy Sports is in default of Contract #20-A and the items noted above that were awarded to Legacy Sports on November 29, 2018 must be rescinded.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that the Township Council on behalf of the MCCPC hereby finds Legacy Sports in Ocala, Florida, in default of their award of a portion of Category H in Contract #20-A (Sporting Goods) with a term of January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Township Council hereby authorizes the rescission of, and hereby rescinds, the items noted above in Category H of Contract #20-A (Sporting Goods) from Legacy Sports.

8. Requesting the Approval of Items of Revenue and Appropriation for the 2019 Municipal Alliance Committee (MAC) Grant for $17,248

R-165-19

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 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 2019 in the sum of $17,248, which is now available from the FY 2019/20 Municipal Alliance Grant in the amount of $17,248; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the like sum of $17,248 is hereby appropriated under the caption Municipal Alliance Grant—2019; and

BE IT FURTHUR RESOLVED, that the sum of $4,312 representing the amount required for the municipality’s share of the aforementioned undertaking or improvement, appears in the budget of the year 2019 under the caption Municipal Alliance—Salaries and Wages and is hereby appropriated under Municipal Alliance—Town Match; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the above is the result of a State grant of $17,248 from the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Fiscal Grant—Cycle July-2019 through June 2020.

9. Authorizing Certification of Annual Audit

R-166-19

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 2018 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.

10. Authorizing Submittal of the Township’s Corrective Action Plan to the Division of Local Government Services as a Result of the 2018 Audit

R-167-19

WHEREAS, in accordance with Local Finance Notice 92-15, all municipalities must prepare a Corrective Action Plan as part of their annual audit process; and

WHEREAS, the 2018 Audit report for the Township of Randolph has been filed; and

WHEREAS, attached is the Township’s Corrective Action Plan as a result of the 2018 audit.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council, Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that a Corrective Action Plan be approved and submitted to the Division of Local Government Services.

11. Release of Police Detail Escrow to Sarai Management, LLC—$217.50

R-168-19

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:

Sarai Management, LLC $217.50

12. Release of Police Detail Escrow to Schifano Construction Company—$209.50

R-169-19

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:

Schifano Construction Corp. $209.50

13. Release of Police Detail Escrow to Sa & Sons Construction, Inc.—$261.00

R-170-19

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:

Sa & Sons Construction Inc $261.00

14. Authorizing the Submittal of a Grant Application and Execution of a Grant Contract with the NJ DOT for Calais Road Paving

R-171-19

Resolution: Approval to submit a grant application and execute a grant contract with the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the Calais Road paving project.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Council of Randolph formally approves the grant application for the above stated project.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor/Council and Clerk are hereby authorized to submit an electronic grant application identified as ID#00493 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation on behalf of Randolph.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor/Council and Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the grant agreement on behalf of Randolph and that their signature constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of the grant agreement and approves the execution of the grant agreement.

15. Refund a Portion of the $1,000.00 Escrow for 21 Crestwood Dr., Block 117, Lot 32 to William Boczon—$690.00

R-172-19

WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Department received escrow funds from William Boczon, 21 Crestwood Drive, Block 117/Lot 32, and in the amount of $1,000.00; and

WHEREAS, the project has been completed and closed out and there are no outstanding payments due.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey that it is recommended by Darren Carney, Planning and Zoning Administrator the remaining escrow funds in the amount of $690.00 be refunded to William Boczon, 21 Crestwood Drive, Randolph, NJ 07869.

Darren Carney, Planning & Zoning Administrator
Date:

16. Raffle License, Off-Premise Merchandise, Greek Orthodox Community Center of Randolph at The Meadow Wood, 461 Route 10, Randolph on November 2, 2019 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

17. Raffle License, Casino Night, at Randolph Engine Co. No. 5, 118 West Hanover Ave, Randolph on October 12, 2019 from 7:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

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

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler
Councilman Nisivoccia (abstain for Items #9 & #10)
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Councilwoman Veech
Deputy Mayor Carey
Mayor Loveys

NAYS: None

K. UPCOMING EVENTS

1. Library Music Event—The Kootz, Monday, July 1 at 7:00 p.m.
2. Freedom Festival Events: Carnival at CCM on Thursday, July 4 and Friday, July 5 from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.; Saturday, July 6—parade at 12:00 p.m., carnival at CCM from 2:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.—fireworks rain date of Sunday, July 7 at 9:30 p.m.
3. Library Music Event—Little Raymond and the Rhythm Preachers, Monday, July 8 at 7:00 p.m.
4. Randolph Area Chamber of Commerce Monthly Networking Luncheon, Thursday, September 19 at LaStrada Restaurant from 11:40 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

L. DISCUSSION ITEMS

1. Time Capsule Project

Manager Mountain explained that he met with Councilwoman Potter and she briefed him on the work that the committee has been working on. The committee has assembled a complete draft of the project. Some details will still need to be worked out.

Councilwoman Potter explained that the committee members were invited to attend the Council meeting, but some couldn’t make it due to vacation, etc. Committee members include Joe Faranetta from the Board of Education, Janet Costello from the Trails Committee, Walter Nickens from Environmental and Landmarks Committee, Travis Ruffo from Parks Committee, and Councilwoman Potter. She explained that the project is to plan an age-friendly, inclusive community building event and creating and planting a time capsule in the new Veterans Community Park. If appropriate, the time capsule would be planted at the Grand Opening of the new park. Students studying local Randolph history would be encouraged to participate and to provide the majority of the content. Other groups to provide content would be the Senior Club, the Historical Society, and other interested groups. The time capsule would be opened when the student class had their 25th reunion from high school; Joe Faranetta confirmed that it is a second grade class that studies local Randolph history so it would be opened in approximately 35 years. The committee will plant the time capsule based upon the recommendation of the Parks Committee. Their research indicated that planting it three feet below ground level is sufficient. For markings at the site, they are considering planting a white oak tree as a reminder of the Liberty Tree, and possibly a plaque.

Councilwoman Potter provided a photo of a possible time capsule. Council members thought the time capsule was very small for what was being considered to be placed inside. Since it is rather small, she said they may even get four of them to plant at each of the schools; the details are still being discussed. Councilwoman Potter explained that the time capsule needs to be of professional quality and not just a coffee can-type container, otherwise water will get in and damage the contents. The time capsule committee does not want there to be a cost to the township; they want the items to be donated. She expected the cost to be under $500. There was a suggestion from a Council member that PVC piping, with caps on both ends, would work also. Councilwoman Potter asked the Council if they were agreeable to moving forward with the project based upon this information.

Mayor Loveys felt the information was good and that the committee was heading in the right direction. He cautioned about the tree; he felt placing it near a building or placing it in a concrete sidewalk would be better for longevity. Councilman Forstenhausler added having a concrete slab over the top, with an inscription about the time capsule and when it’s to be opened. Mayor Loveys suggested that the committee speak with, or Google, Parsippany for information since they recently either planted or unplanted a time capsule. Councilwoman Potter explained that the committee would work with the Parks Committee to determine placement; it can also be registered with the International Time Capsule Society using an online form. Councilwoman Veech suggested the coordinates of the location be contained in a plaque in the Manager’s Office. The Council members were agreeable for the project to move forward.

M. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilwoman Potter attended the Environmental and Landmarks Committee meeting. At the meeting, a draft of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Township of Randolph and the Friends of the Randolph Liberty Tree for use of liberty tree wood and creation of memorials from wood was distributed for review.

At the Environmental and Landmarks Committee meeting, they also spoke about single-use plastics; there is currently a NJ Senate bill (S2776) pending that has been vetoed by Governor Murphy as not being restrictive enough. She explained the details of the bill. According to NJ.com, seventeen municipalities have ordinances in effect; 10 municipalities have ordinances waiting to go into effect; and at least 11 municipalities are known to be actively developing plastic bag regulations. The recommendation from the discussion at the meeting was to form a research committee made up of members from the Environmental and Landmarks Committee, Economic Development Committee, Board of Health, and Council liaisons to decide a plan for Randolph, from a range of “do nothing” to “full implementation.” A community education effort was also suggested. They also recommended that care be given if an ordinance, if created, would not need to be untangled if a state bill should pass. The Environmental and Landmarks Committee volunteered to take the lead in the research committee if the Council desired.

Councilman Forstenhausler commented that the legislature passed one bill that the Governor vetoed and he gave them instruction to make it more restrictive. In his opinion, he felt that until the state makes a decision, he did not understand why municipalities would work on ordinances controlling paper and plastic bags. He felt it made more sense to wait for the decision by the state before moving forward. Councilwoman Potter replied that it was not solely about drafting an ordinance, but to at least educate the public about single-use items. Councilwoman Veech added that in another municipality she knows about, they spent about one year and passed an ordinance. During that year, they educated the public and distributed reusable bags at community events. Councilwoman Veech liked the idea of beginning to educate the community about reusable bags, and she felt that at community events, such bags could be distributed and information provided. Mayor Loveys stated that he did not have a problem with an educational campaign; Councilman Forstenhausler concurred. Councilwoman Potter asked if any others should be included in the committee; Manager Mountain felt it was important to include the EDC as there will be a business impact. Councilwoman Potter explained that there’s also a consortium of communities sharing information which she felt Randolph should likely get involved with; there is a lot of research to be done. Mayor Loveys felt it was a good idea for the Council members to educate themselves on the issue, as well as to educate the public. Councilwoman Potter asked how the Council wanted to her to proceed. After a brief discussion, it was decided that the Council liaisons for the EDC and Board of Health would present the information to their committees. They also felt the Randolph Chamber of Commerce should be included, as well as high school students. Councilman Nisivoccia could present information to the Randolph Chamber of Commerce.

Councilwoman Potter, along with other Council members, attended the Randolph Middle School’s “Middle School to Watch” award presentation. She also attended the Randolph High School graduation ceremony.

Councilman Forstenhausler attended the Randolph Middle School presentation. He also attended Mission Gratitude at the Pediatric Dental Associates on Route 10. The event recognizes EMS, fire and police; it was a well attended event.

Councilman Forstenhausler also attended a NJ DOT meeting at Assemblyman Bucco’s office; he felt the meeting was productive.

Councilman Forstenhausler attended the township’s affordable housing informational meeting; it was not as well attended as he would have liked.

Councilman Forstenhausler also attended the Municipal Alliance Committee meeting. They discussed the Healthy Body, Healthy Mind Expo held in May; it was a successful event, but they felt it better to have it every other year so it doesn’t become stale.

Councilman Tkacs attended the Planning Board meeting; they accepted the Council’s new ordinance on portable storage containers as it is consistent with the master plan. The board accepted an application by Corner Bistro for their outdoor awning; they had constructed it without realizing they needed prior approval.

Councilman Tkacs also attended the affordable housing informational meeting; he commended Attorney Buzak for his presentation.

Deputy Mayor Carey attended the Randolph Education Foundation’s 5K.

Deputy Mayor Carey attended the Trails Committee meeting in Councilwoman Veech’s absence, but it was cancelled due to the lack of a quorum.

Deputy Mayor Carey reported that the Freedom Festival parade will be on Saturday, July 6th at noon. She asked Council members to arrive early, and bring a lot of candy to toss. All seven Council members will be in the parade, as well as Freeholder Darling, Assemblyman Bucco, and County Clerk Ann Grossi. There are currently not enough convertibles, but they are working to obtain more.

Mayor Loveys attended the 5K and Mission Gratitude that were previously discussed.

Mayor Loveys attended and spoke at the Kiwanis Club meeting. He explained that the club awards four scholarships for Randolph High School students; this year they also gave four to Dover High School students. Two of the recipients attended the Kiwanis Club meeting. At the meeting, he provided information about the affordable housing.

Mayor Loveys attended the NJ DOT meeting; it was an entirely different feeling in the room than the previous meeting. Director of Government and Community Relations, Zenovia Fields, seemed sincere and was apologetic for the township’s frustration. The NJ DOT engineer and the Township Engineer discussed each of the four intersections. The NJ DOT engineer agreed with nearly all of Paul Ferriero’s points; some of them are addressable relatively soon, and others will take time. The NJ DOT invited Paul to go to Trenton for a meeting in a few weeks. Mayor Loveys and Manager Mountain were promised another meeting in September; if they have not heard anything by October, they will reach back out to the NJ DOT. Councilwoman Veech thanked them for following up and continuing to contact the NJ DOT about these issues.

O. EXECUTIVE SESSION

The Executive Session was held prior to the start of the regular meeting.

P. ADJOURNMENT

Deputy Mayor Carey made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:15 p.m. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None