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

Minutes: May 21, 2020

A. OPENING OF REGULAR MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Mayor Carey. 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 6, 2019 by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on November 5, 2019. 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 November 14, 2019. The time change for this meeting was posted on all the entrance doors of the municipal building, on the township website, and on TAPInto Randolph on May 5, 2020 as well as posted on the township’s Facebook page and Twitter account. The time change notice was also emailed to the Daily Record and Randolph Reporter on May 5, 2020.

2. Roll Call

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

Also present (in person): Township Manager Mountain and Darren Maloney; Attorney Keli Gallo from the Buzak Law Group (via Zoom)

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Carey led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Carey took a moment to recognize the passing of Jack Sassaman, a beloved member of the community and VFW. She sent condolences to his family. Mayor Carey asked for a moment of silence to reflect on Mr. Sassaman’s memory.

B. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Deputy Freeholder Director Stephen Shaw offered his condolences to the family and community for its loss. He continued his comments stating that he has been participating in many remote meetings in Morris County, and thanked the council for their leadership during this difficult time. He wanted to remind council members and the community that county resources are available to provide help and guidance to those in need. He briefly described revenue challenges on the county level, explaining that the county would keep providing essential services and further review economic impact of the current pandemic. He also briefly discussed testing trends seen from the County College of Morris (CCM) testing site.

Mayor Carey added that the testing site at CCM has been well run and that the county has done a great job communicating with local municipalities.

Councilman Forstenhausler thanked Freeholder Shaw for attending the council meeting, adding that it shows the level of care from the county freeholders. Freeholder Shaw expressed that it is rewarding communicating with local municipalities. Councilman Loveys echoed Councilman Forstenhausler’s comment, adding that Freeholder Shaw has always communicated and provided guidance to the township in a timely manner.

Adam Zyto commented that he previously sent a letter to the township council expressing some concerns he had with the state’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Outlined in the letter was a list of thoughts that he felt would contribute to opening the community and county as recovery continues to develop. He thanked the council for the consideration of a resolution of support to re-open Morris County, and expressed his appreciation to the council for their leadership.

Deputy Mayor Veech asked Freeholder Shaw about the Unlocking New Jersey Movement, and wanted to inquire about the Freeholders position with this movement. Freeholder Shaw was unavailable to respond.

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

C. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain reported the following:

COVID-19 Update
- Today’s update—1 new confirmed case today, which brings our total to 273; 22 of the cases are from long term care facilities. We have had 20 COVID-19 fatalities to date; 11 of which were from long term care facilities. As of today, 203 cases have reported their symptoms have been resolved. The number of new cases per week has been at 10 or less over the past four weeks, which is the best four week average since the pandemic first impacted Randolph in March.
- Dashboard—the new dashboard to display case information on the township website was introduced a couple of weeks ago; the township has received very positive feedback from the community regarding the dashboard. It continues to be tweaked based upon input from residents.
- Township Staffing/Services—The township administrative and clerical staff have all been back in the office on regular schedules for two weeks now without issue.
- Communications—daily communications utilizing all media platforms continues; there has been very positive feedback from residents on the township communications.
- This week the community garden opened utilizing the plan described by Councilwoman Veech at the last meeting. The township parks are open for hiking, biking and small group passive activities. The Governor’s Executive order allowing for the opening of ocean and lake front beaches clears the way for the opening of Randolph Lake. The Recreation staff is currently finalizing the plan required to open and is looking at a June 22nd opening date. The operation due to the social distancing requirements will be different from regular years, but township staff is very happy to be able to provide this recreation opportunity to the public.
- This week through Executive and Administrative Orders the Governor has allowed for numerous non-essential retail businesses to open. Further orders are anticipated in the coming week expanding allowances for business operations. The township economic development committee continues to work aggressively to help promote local business as these re-openings occur.
Resolutions R-138-20 & R-139-20—under the consent agenda there are two resolutions related to capital projects that are being added to the capital plan for the water utility. The expenses which are a Valve Maintenance Trailer and the development of a plan required under the Water Quality Accountability Act (WQAA). Both of these items were known at the time the budget was being prepared, but the final cost details were still being worked out. It was decided the best approach would be to finance the two items via a capital re-appropriation (funding through the cancellation/re-appropriation of old capital ordinance balances) rather than setting aside new funding from the water utility fund. Both the Valve Maintenance Trailer and the plan are needed to meet new state regulations placed upon water utilities. The trailer is needed to exercise and locate water valves in our system and the WQAA plan will fulfill the requirement of an asset management plan for the water utility. The two resolutions amend the capital plan and cancel the old capital balances needed for the funding the two new projects. Ordinance 14-20 on for introduction tonight will provide for the re-appropriation of the funds.
Reservoir Avenue Paving—Morris County held a pre-construction meeting for the paving of Reservoir Avenue. The project is expected to begin next week and to be completed by mid-June.
Memorial Day Ceremony—he has been in contact with the Governor’s Office multiple times over the past few weeks regarding whether the Memorial Day Service could proceed. As of this meeting he was still awaiting guidance on whether the ceremony can proceed even with conditions. He anticipates that the ceremony will be permitted, but with no public audience to maintain restrictions on public gathering. He hopes the guidance will allow participation by dignitaries in support of the ceremony, but that still remains an open question. He will advise the VFW Commander of the state guidelines upon receipt and will share the same with the Council as soon as they are known.

Councilman Tkacs asked for an update on the progress of the communication tower project. Manager Mountain reported that the contractor has completed all they need to do with erecting the tower. They are in the process of switching over the tech and materials from the old tower to the new one. Once done, they can remove the old tower. The installation of AT&T’s infrastructure will take several more months as it relies on infrastructure installed by JCP&L; it is expected that everything should be ready by fall. The township will then look into any other carriers through a second bid offering.

Councilman Forstenhausler commented that he was very disappointed that the Governor’s office opened the beaches and gave guidance for recreational activities for this weekend, when the focus of the holiday is remembering fallen soldiers and those who gave to this country. He was disappointed that the state had not yet provided any guidance to municipalities for Memorial Day ceremonies. He agreed with Manager Mountain, that the ceremony should happen but be limited to officials, VFW members, and he would like to direct the memory of Jack Sassaman who served the country in the Vietnam War and was a dedicated member of the community.

Councilwoman Potter inquired if the Memorial Day Ceremony could be live streamed on the township’s Facebook page. Manager Mountain responded that he is not familiar with live-streaming, but someone could look into it.

D. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

Item #13, R-144-20, funding to Morris County under the CARES Act—Mayor Carey briefly explained for the public that the federal government has allocated 3.44 billion dollars to New Jersey; one billion of which is supposed to go to counties that have more than 500,000 residents. Unfortunately Morris is among the top 10 facing challenges and impacts of COVID-19, but it falls short of that population quota. The Morris County Freeholders have already adopted a resolution to urge the Governor to reallocate those funds so that Morris County would receive funding. Councilman Loveys added that he believed the opening of the testing facility at County College of Morris was done with no state funding; he agreed with Mayor Carey that Morris County should receive funding under the CARES Act. Deputy Mayor Veech asked how likely it would be for Morris County to receive the funding; she asked if there was any indication from the Governor’s office that there would be a change. Manager Mountain replied that it would be a federal answer; he believed that the Governor’s office and the federal legislative representatives have all expressed desire to see this corrected. However, he did not know what the chances were of getting the change. Councilman Loveys felt that it would be a real shame if Morris County didn’t receive funding; Councilman Forstenhausler agreed with the other Council members and with adopting the resolution. Councilman Forstenhausler also thanked the members of the public who called and emailed in support of this resolution.

Item #12, R-143-20, supporting reopening of Morris County—Mayor Carey explained that this resolution, that Mr. Zyto had noted previously, is coming directly from the township and its residents. It acknowledges that COVID-19 has hit New Jersey and the township hard, but that the residents have responded well and cooperated very well and embraced social distancing. But now it’s time to safely, responsibly, and equitably reopen the state. There are examples of where small businesses that have been hurt more than some of the larger businesses that were allowed to remain open. Mayor Carey explained that the township is adding its voice to others such as Senator Bucco, the Morris County Freeholders, and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce in agreeing that it’s time for a safe, sensible, and timely reopening of the state. Councilman Forstenhausler supported the resolution and commented on small businesses starting to open.

R-132-20 Authorizing the Cancellation and Refund of Property Taxes for Any Portion Paid by the Veteran after May 7, 2020 for 2nd Quarter, and the 3rd and 4th Quarters of 2020 for Block 161, Lot 8, 19 Forrest Road to Joseph and Sierra Bosotina in Accordance with Approval by the United States Veterans Administration
R-133-20 Authorizing the Cancellation and Refund of Property Taxes for any Portion Paid by the Veteran after April 1, 2020 for Block 145, Lot 12, 119 High Street to Richard and Joann M. Van Erem in Accordance with Approval by the United States Veterans Administration
R-134-20 Release Road Opening Cash Bond for the Purpose of Connecting to the Township Storm Drain at 3 Iron Forge Road, Block 205, Lot 12 to TM Landscaping—$500.00
R-135-20 Refund Registration for Summer Day and Teen Camp Programs due to COVID-19 to Candice Wiberg—$2,410.00
R-136-20 Refund Registration for Summer Sports Program due to COVID-19 to Karen Rogers—$340.00
R-137-20 Refund Registration for Children Not Attending Spring Sports Programs due to COVID-19 to Jessica Manganiello—$465.00
R-138-20 Authorizing Amending 2020 Capital Budget
R-139-20 Cancelling Unused Balances in #07-17 Water Capital Improvements Relating to Tamari Court/Sweetwood Drive Study—$41,500.00
R-140-20 Refund Registration for Summer Day Camp Programs due to COVID-19 to Laara Williams—$1,800.00
R-141-20 Refund Registration for Summer Day Camp Programs due to COVID-19 to Susan D’Angelo—$515.00
R-142-20—2019 LOSAP Benefit to be Paid in 2020—Volunteer Fire Department and Volunteer Rescue Squad
R-143-20 Supporting Reopening of Morris County COVID-19
R-144-20 Urging State of New Jersey to Provide Direct Stabilization Funding to Morris County from the Coronavirus Relief Fund by Utilizing the CARES Act
R-145-20 Refund Registration for Summer Artworks Program due to COVID-19 to Andrea Sickinger—$310.00
R-146-20 Authorizing Change Order #1 to Increase Contract by $12,780.50 with Mike Fitzpatrick Contractors for the Brookside Road Paving Project Bringing the New Total to $352,471.00
R-147-20 Refund Registration for Spring Sports Programs due to COVID-19 to Dawn Hersh—$320.00
R-148-20 Rejecting the Sole Bid for a Maintenance Contract for the Township’s Fire Apparatus

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

AYES:
Councilman Forstenhausler (Abstained for R-142-20 only)
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilwoman Potter
Councilman Tkacs
Deputy Mayor Veech
Mayor Carey

NAYS: None

E. ORDINANCES: SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING

1. Ordinance No. 05-20—Appropriating $1,049,500 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2020 Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,049,500 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2020 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is the first of several capital ordinances up for second reading. This is the cash ordinance for the general capital improvements in the capital plan for 2020.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,049,500 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2020 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to accept the Ordinance 05-20. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

2. Ordinance No. 06-20—Appropriating $900,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2020 Road Overlay Program

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $900,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE 2020 ROAD OVERLAY PROGRAM” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is the cash ordinance supporting the 2020 road overlay program.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $900,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE 2020 ROAD OVERLAY PROGRAM” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to accept Ordinance 06-20. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

3. Ordinance No. 07-20—Appropriating $1,150,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for 2020 Water/Sewer Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,150,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2020 WATER/SEWER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is the cash funding of the water and sewer capital improvements.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,150,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2020 WATER/SEWER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Loveys made a motion to accept Ordinance 07-20. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

4. Ordinance No. 08-20—Appropriating $275,000 Including $121,000 from the General Capital Improvement Fund and $154,000 due from a New Jersey Department of Transportation Grant for Improvements to Franklin Road

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $275,000 INCLUDING $121,000 FROM THE GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND AND $154,000 DUE FROM A NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION GRANT FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO FRANKLIN ROAD” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides the cash match for the Franklin Road state aid paving project.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $275,000 INCLUDING $121,000 FROM THE GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND AND $154,000 DUE FROM A NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION GRANT FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO FRANKLIN ROAD” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to accept Ordinance 08-20. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

5. Ordinance No. 09-20—Appropriating $440,000 from the Recreation/Open Space Trust Fund for Various 2020 Park and Recreation Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $440,000 FROM THE RECREATION/OPEN SPACE TRUST FUND FOR VARIOUS 2020 PARK AND RECREATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides cash from the Recreation Trust Fund in support of the 2020 Parks and Recreation capital plan projects.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $440,000 FROM THE RECREATION/OPEN SPACE TRUST FUND FOR VARIOUS 2020 PARK AND RECREATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to accept Ordinance 09-20. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

6. Ordinance No. 10-20 Bond Ordinance Providing for the Acquisition of New DPW Equipment by the Township of Randolph in the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $348,000 Therefore and Authorizing the Issuance of $323,000 Bonds or Notes of the Township for Financing Such Appropriation

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF NEW DPW EQUIPMENT BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $348,000 THEREFORE AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $323,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP FOR FINANCING SUCH APPROPRIATION” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this bond ordinance funds the only projects handled through borrowing and those are two DPW vehicles.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF NEW DPW EQUIPMENT BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $348,000 THEREFORE AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $323,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP FOR FINANCING SUCH APPROPRIATION” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to accept Ordinance 10-20. Councilwoman Veech seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

F. ORDINANCES: INTRODUCTION

1. Ordinance No. 03-20—Re-Introduction Amending Section 15-90, Administration and Enforcement, of the Land Development Ordinance of the Township of Randolph by the Addition of Section 15-90.10, Enforcement of Affordable Housing Regulations

Mayor Carey read the following statement:

“On March 5, 2020 the Council introduced Ordinance 03-20, An Ordinance Amending Section 15-90, Administration and Enforcement, of the Land Development Ordinance of the Township of Randolph by the Addition of Section 15-90.10, Enforcement of Affordable Housing Regulations, with a public hearing to be held on April 23, 2020. On April 23, 2020, the Council tabled the public hearing for Ordinance 03-20 to May 7, 2020. The public hearing did not take place on May 7, 2020 and the Council will need to withdraw Ordinance 03-20 as introduced on March 5, 2020 and re-introduce Ordinance 03-20 tonight.”

Mayor Carey asked for a motion to withdraw Ordinance 03-20 as introduced on March 5, 2020.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to withdraw Ordinance 03-20 as introduced on March 5, 2020. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

Mayor Carey stated that they would now introduce Ordinance 03-20.

Manager Mountain explained the ordinance is designed to provide additional enforcement powers for the township on the affordable housing that it oversees. This ordinance was introduced, but since the Planning Board did not meet, the opportunity was missed for a second reading. It is now being re-introduced, with a public hearing and second reading in June.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 15-90, ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT, OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH BY THE ADDITION OF SECTION 15-90.10, ENFORCEMENT OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING REGULATIONS” 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 25th of June, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. 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 Loveys asked if the Planning Board had recommended it. Manager Mountain replied that they had not, and that is why it is back on track; the Planning Board will have a meeting before the public hearing and second reading. Attorney Gallo stated that it was her understanding that the Planning Board did review the ordinance after the last introduction, and found it to be not inconsistent with the master plan, but it will have to happen again. Manager Mountain stated that he didn’t believe they had reviewed it since they did not have a meeting.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to re-introduce Ordinance 03-20. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

2. Ordinance No. 11-20—Authorizing the Acceptance of Certain Water and Sanitary Sewer Facilities Constructed by or On Behalf Of Pulte Homes of NJ, LP and Authorizing the Acceptance of the Bill of Sale

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance accepts the water and sewer infrastructure facilities that Pulte Homes constructed as part of the Kensington Square project. With this ordinance the township will be accepting that infrastructure as ours.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN WATER AND SANITARY SEWER FACILITIES CONSTRUCTED BY OR ON BEHALF OF PULTE HOMES OF NJ, LP AND AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE BILL OF SALE” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to introduce Ordinance 11-20. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

3. Ordinance No. 12-20—Accepting a Sanitary Sewer Easement Over Property Known as Block 101, Lot 22.01

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance is the acceptance of the sanitary sewer easement associated with the sewer infrastructure serving the Kensington Square project.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING A SANITARY SEWER EASEMENT OVER PROPERTY KNOWN AS BLOCK 101, LOT 22.01” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Attorney Gallo noted that there are attachments to both the water and sewer easements which have to be revised. The reason for the revisions to the attachments is that there were originally two lots that were consolidated; therefore, the legal description and map need to be updated to reflect that it is now only one lot (Lot 22.01). That will be the only change to the documents prior to the adoption of the Ordinance.

Councilman Loveys made a motion to introduce Ordinance 12-20. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

4. Ordinance No. 13-20—Accepting a Water Utility Easement Over Property Known as Block 101, Lot 22.01

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance accepts the water utility easement associated with the Kensington Square project.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING A WATER UTILITY EASEMENT OVER PROPERTY KNOWN AS BLOCK 101, LOT 22.01” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Attorney Gallo noted that her comment regarding Ordinance 12-20 applies to this ordinance as well.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce Ordinance 13-20. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

5. Ordinance No. 14-20—Appropriating $41,500 from the Water Capital Improvement Fund for 2020 Water Capital Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides the funds that are being re-appropriated from the cancelled ordinances to cover the trailer and the asset management plan for the water utility.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $41,500 FROM THE WATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2020 WATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce Ordinance 14-20. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

6. Ordinance No. 15-20—Granting an Easement and Right of Way Agreement Over a Portion of Block 119, Lot 119 on the Official Tax Map of the Township of Randolph to Jersey Central Power & Light and Verizon of New Jersey, Inc.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance grants an easement and right of way for the power company and Verizon to install the poles and infrastructure needed to support the new communication tower as well as the garage that has been installed behind the Municipal Building.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE GRANTING AN EASEMENT AND RIGHT OF WAY AGREEMENT OVER A PORTION OF BLOCK 119, LOT 119 ON THE OFFICIAL TAX MAP OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH TO JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT AND VERIZON OF NEW JERSEY, INC.” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce Ordinance 15-20. Councilwoman Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

G. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

H. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilman Loveys reported that the Board of Health met via a Zoom meeting on Monday, May 11; in lieu of the April meeting, a communicable disease subcommittee comprised of Health Officer Mark Caputo, Dr. Millman, Dr. Leibowitz and Norma Jacobs met to discuss where the township was with relation to COVID-19. Most of the meeting consisted of COVID-19 issues; all of the screenings and clinics scheduled by the Health Department have been cancelled until further notice and lifting of Executive Orders. Since this crisis began, Mark Caputo has participated in daily conference calls with the New Jersey Department of Health which updates call participants with the status of COVID-19. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the state epidemiologist participates on those conference calls. The state epidemiologist has also participated in conference calls with local and county health officials where they review statistics related to COVID-19 and activity in municipalities in Morris County. The Public Health Nurses, Mark Caputo and Manager Mountain teleconference daily regarding COVID-19 updates; the Manager uses this information in the township’s daily updates. Mark Caputo reviewed with the Board of Health several different testing centers; the testing criteria depends on the type of facility. Mark discussed contact tracing and the work being done by the three Public Health Nurses and the Senior Health Inspector who also participates. During the crisis, the health office has relied on its continuity of operations plan where they prioritize activities. For example, inspections of food establishments were temporarily suspended; however, complaints associated with food establishments continued to be addressed. The largest complaint was related to food handlers without masks or gloves. All Health Department staff reports were received and reviewed by the Board of Health members.

Councilman Loveys reported that the Morris County Chamber of Commerce held a meeting via Zoom to publicly announce their plan that was developed, along with its Government Affairs Committee and in partnership with Senator Bucco, to establish an Economic Reopening and Recovery Taskforce. The taskforce was charged with recommending next steps for the state legislature to consider in terms of reopening businesses. The taskforce includes independent, non-partisan business leaders from various industries, government officials, and healthcare experts; the plan exists on the Morris County Chamber of Commerce website. Councilman Loveys stated that the plan is fact and science-based and identified approximately 312 industries; they kept a score card as to each type of business and grouped them into four transmission risk categories. The categories are: minimal, moderate, significant and high risk. They also created a list of mitigating guidance which goes along with CDC and NIH recommendations. The conclusion of the taskforce’s report is that of the 312 industries identified and analyzed, approximately 80% of them fell into a risk category of minimal or moderate. Councilman Loveys provided more detail of the report. He encouraged other Council members to review the plan on the chamber’s website.

Councilman Loveys felt the Table of Hope food distribution event was very successful for both Randolph residents and those of other local communities.

Councilwoman Potter had nothing to report.

Councilman Nisivoccia had nothing to report.

Councilman Forstenhausler participated in the Zoom meeting for the Trails Advisory Committee on May 20; the signage at the trail heads is being updated and new trail maps will be available. New information will be posted on ticks, coyotes and black bears. On the maps they plan to include a “you are here” notation. The committee also discussed trying to get a trail from the Dawson Brook development to the Veterans Community Park trails; Russ Newman will work on this suggestion.

Councilman Forstenhausler noted that he is extremely proud that the Council has been able to stay informed and connected via Zoom meetings and emails. He felt that through a combination of hard work and fiscal responsibility, township services have continued to move forward during the COVID-19 pandemic. He thanked Mayor Carey, Manager Mountain and Donna Luciani for their hard work in making this happen. He was proud to be part of the Council and thanked his fellow Council members as well.

Councilman Tkacs participated in the Zoom meeting for the Recreation Committee. Most of the meeting was spent discussing specific programs and their uncertainty as to what they will be able to do. Members hoped that some of the summer programming would take place. There is still uncertainty with the fall programs. Russ Newman did a survey of the potential users of the summer parks programs and most participants were interested in doing an outdoor program utilizing large tents installed at Freedom Park. Residents were interested in the outdoor programming, but not anything indoors. Recreation Committee member Joe Faranetta made a few comments regarding the Board of Education including that the board approved a bid for the field house. The school board is hoping to have some kind of graduation ceremony, depending on the guidance from the Governor on public gatherings. They are also hoping to have a virtual awards night for the schools.

Deputy Mayor Veech participated in the Zoom meeting for the Parks Advisory Committee. The main topic was how the Parks & Recreation department plans to open Randolph Lake and how memberships would be handled as far as non-residents and the number of people. The committee spent a good amount of time making suggestions for Russ to take back to Manager Mountain. There was also an update to the Parks Advisory Committee on the opening of the Community Garden which occurred on May 20th at 8:00 am. There is currently a schedule that only allows access to a certain number of gardeners at one time. The Governor will be allowing the opening of other community gardens on May 22nd, following social distancing protocols; the Governor had approved our opening on the 20th. The committee will review the Governor’s Executive Order and determine if the access schedule will be needed in the future. Deputy Mayor Veech encouraged the other Council members to check out the garden. There are still approximately 30 openings.

Manager Mountain reported that Russ Newman and Steve Eisenstein are working on finalizing how the Randolph Lake plan will work. At this point, they are thinking there will be no seasonal membership, but tracking the usage of the lake on a daily basis. Residents would get a day pass on the day prior which would allow the department to track the attendance and plan for staffing the facility. The difficulty with having a lot of seasonal passes is when, on a particular day they hit capacity, some of those with seasonal passes will have to be turned away. The day pass method may limit the township a little on the revenue side, but they felt it would allow them to manage it more efficiently from a service perspective. He, Russ and Steve Eisenstein felt that the costs can be balanced through this approach and if the level of restriction gets relieved later in the season, they could expand the number of people on a day to day basis. There are a lot of other dynamics going into how the lake will be managed regarding staffing, sanitizing, and lifeguard training. Much of the guidance is just being released from the state. A requirement of the Executive Order is that the operating entity has to submit to the local Board of Health their plan that covers the operational side of the lake before they can open. He expected the membership information to be determined shortly and begin to communicate it to the public.

Mayor Carey stated that she agreed with Councilman Loveys’ comments on the Table of Hope event; the Randolph team, including Russ Newman and Barbara Lukavich, did a great job and the event was well run.

Mayor Carey reported that she attended the opening of the Community Garden, and felt it was beautiful and well designed.

Mayor Carey and Councilmen Loveys, Nisivoccia and Forstenhausler participated in the Zoom meeting of the Chamber of Commerce. They suggested planning a grand reopening of Randolph once it can be done.

I. EXECUTIVE SESSION

There was no Executive Session.

J. ADJOURNMENT

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None