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

Minutes: May 5, 2016

A. OPENING OF REGULAR MEETING

1. Call to Order

A regular meeting of the Randolph Township Council was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Hirniak. 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 4, 2015 by e-mailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on December 3, 2015. 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 10, 2015.

2. Roll Call

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

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello (phoned in at 6:21 p.m., but call disconnected at 6:24 p.m. and could not be reconnected)

Also present: Township Manager Mountain, and Tiena Cofoni from the Law Office of Edward Buzak.

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Hirniak led the Pledge of Allegiance.

B. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

C. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain updated the Council that the paving and completion of work at Dover Chester Road and Calais Road will be weather pending on Monday May 16th. Restriping will occur within a few days of paving. Those intersections will then be totally complete.

Curb work on Sussex Turnpike should be the week of May 9th in its entirety except for the area of West Hanover Avenue.

The rough grading of the new West Hanover Avenue alignment is complete and drainage work is progressing in that alignment. Two gas lines and water department need to begin relocation in the new alignment.

Pole relocations are ongoing except for Verizon poles and wire due to the strike.

Brookside drainage we are attempting an alternate solution which will save much time over installing a pipe in Brookside.

Traffic signal work at Millbrook will be done in next month. Underground work will begin at West Hanover Avenue upon completion of the curb work.

Utility relocations are dictating the schedule at this point. Manager Mountain estimated that the gas companies need three months to move their lines. JCP& L has been working as necessary and may need s few more months. Verizon is an unknown at this point as we have been told they will not be moving anything until the strike is over.

Manager Mountain stated that the plan is to finish by the end of this year. If utility relocations are expedited it will be sooner.

Manager Mountain stated that he will again request an updated schedule from the contractor.

D. 2016 MUNICIPAL BUDGET/PUBLIC HEARING/ADOPTION

1. R-144-16 Adoption of 2016 Municipal Budget

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

• The process was guided by a set of questions:
  • Will this action compound Randolph’s budget challenges in 2016 and beyond?
  • How does the value of the reduction balance with the expectations on the municipal organization by the public?
  • If the expenditure is deferred for a year, can and will the Township catch up in the future?
  • Will this decision make Randolph a stronger community five years from now?
• The 2016 Municipal Budget continues the township tradition of remaining below the state mandated caps. The budget is roughly $900,000 below the 2% tax levy cap, and it will continue to be well under the appropriation cap.
• The budget contains no service reductions; in some areas, it increases the level of service provided to the public.
• The Municipal Budget and Capital Improvement Program total this year is $31,379,986.
• The Water budget is $3,185,941; the Sewer budget is $3,168,237. The combined budget is just under 9% lower than the 2015 budget. The Water and Sewer funds continue to carry healthy fund balances.
• The greatest driver was infrastructure, particularly the roads; there is a strong surplus, and this was the year to invest in the roads.
• The township’s portion of the overall tax bill is under 20%.
• The impact on the average assessed residential structure is $40.21 for the year.
• The revenue picture for 2016 is very strong; there is a rebound in just about every area that lagged during the recession.
• For the Municipal Tax per Person, Randolph is rated the 6th lowest of the municipalities in Morris County.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Judith Stewart of 114 Everdale Road, commended the Council on the 2016 Budget and thanked them for keeping the process open to the public. She appreciated the numerous Public Budget Meetings where she was able to ask questions.

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

R-144-16

Be it resolved by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris that the budget hereinbefore set forth is hereby adopted and shall constitute an appropriation for the purposes stated of the sums therein set forth as appropriations, and authorization of the amount of:

(a) $19,497,105.00 (Item 2 below) for municipal purposes, and

(b) $0.00 (Item 3 below) for school purposes in Type I School Districts only (N.J.S. 18A:9-2) to be raised by taxation and,

(c) $0.00 (Item 4 below) to be added to the certificate of amount to be raised by taxation for local school purposes in Type II School Districts only (N.J.S. 18A:9-3) and certification to the County Board of Taxation of the following summary of general revenues and appropriations.

(d) $877,004.00 (Sheet 43) Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Levy

(e) $1,428,445.13 (Item 5 below) Minimum Library Levy

It is hereby certified that the within budget is a true copy of the budget finally adopted by resolution of the Governing Body on the 5th day of May, 2016. It is further certified that each item of revenue and appropriation is set forth in the same amount and by the same title as appeared in the 2016 approved budget and all amendments thereto, if any, which have been previously approved by the Director of Local Government Services.

Councilman Forstenhausler felt the process was thorough, and he was pleased with the budget.

Councilman Guadagno felt the budget again put Randolph in a great financial position; he hoped that this continues in the future.

Councilwoman Veech agreed with the other Councilmen. She added a comment about the cost of collecting garbage versus recycling, and how recycling collection is cheaper. She would encourage residents and businesses to be mindful of recycling versus trash, and felt that it could save the township money in the future.

Councilman Loveys supported the budget. He thanked Darren Maloney, Manager Mountain for their time and patience in drafting and presenting the budget. He was particularly in support of the commitment to the infrastructure.

Deputy Mayor Carey agreed with the previous comments, and felt it was a strong and sound budget.

Mayor Hirniak explained that, in August 2015, Moody’s Investors Service upgraded Randolph from AA1 to AAA. As a result, Randolph became one of fewer than 20 municipalities in New Jersey to receive a AAA rating from both Moody’s and Standard and Poors. He agreed with comments made by the other Council members, and was in support of the budget.

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to adopt the 2016 Municipal Budget. Councilman Napoliello seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello (lost phone connection)

NAYS: None

E. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES

1. Authorizing the Approval of the Budget Meeting Minutes from March 19, 2016

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to approve the Budget Meeting Minutes from March 19, 2016. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

2. Authorizing the Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes from March 31, 2016

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from March 31, 2016. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

F. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

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

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

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

NAYS: None

1. Awarding a Contract for Millbrook Avenue Resurfacing Project to Schifano Construction Corp.—$344,315.70

R-142-16

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph advertised for the Millbrook Avenue Resurfacing Project in accordance with Local Public Contracts Law and received bids on April 26, 2016; and

WHEREAS, 9 bids were received; and

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

Smith-Sondy Asphalt Construction Co., Inc, Wallington, NJ -
Base Bid: $354,679.80, Alternate Bid: $9,180.00;

Top Line Construction Corp., Somerville, NJ -
Base Bid: $359,948.45, Alternate Bid: $7,594.00;

Reivax Contracting Corp., Newark, NJ -
Base Bid: $427,111.75, Alternate Bid: $6,500.00;

Rockborn Trucking & Excavation, Inc., Wharton, NJ -
Base Bid: $357,628.56, Alternate Bid: $7,500.00;

Schifano Construction Corp., Middlesex, NJ -
Base Bid: $344,315.70, Alternate Bid: $8,400.00;

Tilcon New York Inc., Parsippany, NJ -
Base Bid: $396,202.50, Alternate Bid: $7,900.00;

AJM Contractors, Inc., Clifton, NJ -
Base Bid: $344,603.00, Alternate Bid: $7,500.00;

J.A. Alexander Inc., Bloomfield, NJ -
Base Bid: $394,063.92, Alternate Bid: $5,500.00;

Konkus Corporation, Chester, NJ -
Base Bid: $353,029.76, Alternate Bid: $6,500.00; and

WHEREAS, the Township has decided to perform the installation of 100 SY of concrete sidewalk in-house (Alternate Bid No. 1), therefore Alternate Bid No. 1 will not be considered or awarded; and

WHEREAS, the Engineer, the Engineering Administrator/W& S and the Purchasing Agent recommend the award of the contract to Schifano Construction Corp. as the lowest responsive, responsible bidder for the Base Bid; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph desires to award a contract for the Millbrook Avenue Resurfacing Project to Schifano Construction Corp. of Middlesex, 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 Schifano Construction Corp. of Middlesex, NJ for the Millbrook Avenue Resurfacing Project for the Base Bid price of $344,315.70 per their bid proposal.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: May 5, 2016

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 18-14, Millbrook Avenue Project and Ordinance 09-16, Millbrook Avenue Project, to award a contract to Schifano Construction, per its response to a Township bid solicitation.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 04-215-55-962-300 (not to exceed $242,719.61)
04-215-55-973-300 (not to exceed $101,596.09)

2. Recommendation of Award of State Aid Project to Schifano Construction Corp. for Bid of $344,315.70 to the NJ Department of Transportation Division of Local and Economic Development for the Millbrook Ave Resurfacing Project

R-142-16(a)

BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Council of the Township of Randolph hereby recommends to the New Jersey Department of Transportation that the contract for Millbrook Ave. Resurfacing Project in the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, be awarded to Schifano Construction Corp. whose total bids amounted to $344,315.70 subject to the approval of the Department. That the presiding officer of this body be and is hereby directed to sign for and on its behalf the contract in the prescribed form for said construction.

3. Awarding a contract for Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement—Phase 2 to Pacific Construction, LLC—$525,303.00

R-143-16

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph advertised for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement—Phase 2 project in accordance with Local Public Contracts Law and received bids on April 26, 2016; and

WHEREAS, 9 bids were received; and

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

Reivax Contracting Corp, Newark, NJ—Base Bid: $542,230.00;
JTG Construction, Inc., Newark, NJ—Base Bid: $691,841.00;
John Garcia Construction Co. Inc., Clifton, NJ—Base Bid: $804,401.20;
P.M. Construction Corp., Hillside, NJ—Base Bid: $716,568.00;
M.S.P. Construction Corporation, Newark, NJ—Base Bid: $856,600.00;
Haskell Paving Inc., Ringwood, NJ—Base Bid: $634,596.85;
Underground Utilities Corp., Linden, NJ—Base Bid: $618,460.00;
Sanitary Construction, Rockaway, NJ—Base Bid: $861,980.00;
Pacific Construction LLC, Whitehouse Station, NJ—Base Bid: $525,303.00; and

WHEREAS, the Engineer, the Engineering Administrator/W& S and the Purchasing Agent recommend the award of the contract to Pacific Construction LLC as the lowest responsive, responsible bidder; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph desires to award a contract for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement—Phase 2 project to Pacific Construction LLC of Whitehouse Station, 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 Pacific Construction LLC of Whitehouse Station, NJ for the Sussex Turnpike Water Main Replacement Phase 2 project for the price of $525,303.00 per their bid proposal.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: May 5, 2016

As required by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-57, N.J.A.C. 5:30-14.5, and any other applicable requirement, I, Darren Maloney, Director of Finance for the Township of Randolph, have ascertained that funds will be available in the Water Capital Fund, Ordinance 10-16, Sussex Turnpike Waterline Project, to award a contract to Pacific Construction, per its response to a Township bid solicitation.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 06-215-55-911-600 (not to exceed $525,303)

4. Raffle License, Tricky Tray, Friends of Randolph Animal Pound, Inc. on October 1, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 502 Millbrook Avenue, Randolph, NJ 07869

G. UPCOMING EVENTS

1. Tree dedication at Freedom Park at 6:00 p.m. and Bench dedication at Heistein Park at 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10th
2. Morris County Chamber of Commerce Event—Breakfast with Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen—May 16th—Wyndham Hamilton Park, Florham Park, 7:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.
3. Randolph Area Chamber of Commerce, “The Five Most Common Marketing Mistakes Business Leaders Make,” Ellen Smolko—featured speaker—Thursday, May 19th—11:45 a.m., La Strada Restaurant—$22 members and $30 non-members
4. 5k Fun Run to benefit the Randolph Regional Animal Shelter, Sunday, May 22nd at 11:00 a.m. at Freedom Park—to register randolphregionalanimalshelter.org $15.00 in advance or $20.00 day of event
5. Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 30, 2016 at VFW—11:00 a.m.
6. Habitat for Humanity—Hammer for Heroes, Saturday, June 4, 2016, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Restore, 274 South Salem Street Randolph, NJ 07869
7. Relay for Life—June 4, 2016 starting at 4:00 p.m. to June 5, 2016 ending at 6:00 a.m. County College of Morris
8. Randolph Area Chamber of Commerce and Randolph EDC—Randolph business before hours at AAA, 275-33 Rte. 10 East, Succasunna, on Wednesday, June 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
9. Annual MCCPC Luncheon, Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at noon in the Courtroom—RSVP to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this e-mail address)

H. ORDINANCES: SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING

1. Ordinance No. 12-16: Bond Ordinance Providing for Various Capital Improvements by the Township of Randolph, Appropriating the Aggregate Amount of $1,173,000 Therefore and Authorizing the Issuance of $1,080,500 Bonds or Notes of the Township to Finance part of the cost thereof

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH, APPROPRIATING THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $1,173,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,080,500 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of the ordinance is to provide funding for the removal of underground storage tanks located at the Chapel Hill Pump Station, the Public Works Facility, and the Mount Freedom Fire House including all work and materials necessary; to provide funding for the purchase of two pickup trucks, a tractor, dump truck, and chemical equipment for the Department of Public Works and repairs/refurbishment of three dump trucks including all work and materials necessary; to provide funding for the purchase of a new Fire Pumper Truck for the Fire Department; to provide funding for the purchase and installation of a new boiler system at the Community Center; purchase and installation of a new lighting system at the Police Firing Range; improvements to the locker room at the Police Department; improvements to the restrooms at the Municipal Building; and improvements to the elevator in the VFW Building including all work and materials necessary; and to provide funding for the purchase and installation of a new roof for the Regional Animal Shelter located in Mendham Township; and repairs and improvements to the Animal Shelter Building located on Sussex Turnpike including all work and materials necessary.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH, APPROPRIATING THE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $1,173,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,080,500 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF” be passed on final reading and that a Notice of Final Passage of said Ordinance be published in the official designated newspaper according to law.

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

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

2. Ordinance No. 13-16: An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $475,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2016 Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $475,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2016 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this is a cash Ordinance to fund a number of projects in various departments, including the Rescue Squad, Police Department, Parks Department, and Fire Department.

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 $475,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR VARIOUS 2016 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 Forstenhausler made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

3. Ordinance No. 14-16: An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $1,500,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2016 Road Overlay Program

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $1,500,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE 2016 ROAD OVERLAY PROGRAM” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this Ordinance provides the cash appropriation to support the 2016 Road Overlay Program. All of the streets listed in the Ordinance, the Council approved at a previous meeting.

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 $1,500,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE 2016 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 adopt the ordinance. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

4. Ordinance No. 15-16: An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $225,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for 2016 Water and Sewer Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED that an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH APPROPRIATING $225,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2016 WATER AND SEWER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this Ordinance provides for the cash appropriation to support the 2016 Water and Sewer Capital Improvements included on the approved 2016 Capital Plan.

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 $225,000 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2016 WATER AND 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 Forstenhausler made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

I. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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

J. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilman Guadagno reported that the electronics container at the Recycling Center is again overflowing; Manager Mountain will follow up.

Councilman Loveys reported that he attended the MAC meeting in April. They are working with the YMCA to have an after school program at the Program House; the Board of Education has agreed to provide a bus. They are looking to target the 5th graders currently in after school care. They are hoping to have an Open House and invite parents to explain the program. He also reported that Sharon Kamholz, the MAC Grant Administrator, will be moving to Buffalo at the end of June, which is also the end of the grant cycle.

Councilman Loveys also reported that Officer Gould met with three high school students in the Mass Media program. They developed a short video regarding the dangers of drinking and driving; he assumed they would be playing the video for the students prior to the prom. There is also a Parents Who Host Lose the Most banner on the lawn of the Municipal Building, across from the high school exit. There used to be a crashed car, but with the change in the towing vendor, it is no longer there.

Deputy Mayor Carey reported that she attended an anti-bullying program at Skylands, and presented a Proclamation to Paula Magone, the organizer of the event; Councilwoman Veech also attended.

Deputy Mayor Carey also reported that she attended Clean Communities Day, and thanked Councilman Guadagno for directing her to a very littered area where she, the Mayor, and some friends filled many bags of trash.

Deputy Mayor reported that she attended the Eagle Scout ceremony for Steven Turi and Charles Neely; she had never attended one before, and was very impressed.

Mayor Hirniak reported that he, Councilman Loveys, and Councilman Guadagno toured the Public Safety building on West Hanover Avenue, and the former Armory. He thanked Manager Mountain for arranging the tours.

Mayor Hirniak also attended the 200 Club Valor and Meritorious Award dinner at the Birchwood Manor.

Mayor Hirniak thanked the Council members who attended Clean Communities Day; there was a good turnout from community, particularly the youth and civic organizations.

Mayor Hirniak reported that both Eagle Scouts that the Deputy Mayor mentioned were invited to a Council meeting; he will let the Council know if they accept the invitation.

Mayor Hirniak went to the Channel 12 News offices and was interviewed by Dr. Voynick for his Pet Stop program, to talk about the Ordinance passed in 2014 banning the retail sale of dogs and cats. Randolph was the first in Morris County to pass such an Ordinance; it is now being used as an example for the entire state. There were also representatives from Eleventh Hour Rescue and Space Farms at the interview.

There was a 10 minute break at 6:50 p.m.

The Council Meeting resumed at 7:00 p.m.

K. PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN—PUBLIC HEARING

Manager Mountain explained that the draft plan was assembled by the township consultant on the project, Brandstetter Carroll, under the leadership of Project Manager Pat Hoagland. Mr. Hoagland and his staff were guided by a steering committee comprised of citizen volunteers, elected officials, and township staff. The committee members were: Bernie Barrish, Ethan Blynn, Deputy Mayor Carey, Mayor Hirniak, Councilwoman Veech, Ned Levine, Joe Nazarro, Len Pietrewicz, Ann Standridge, Jeff Stickle, Russ Newman, and Jeanne Montemarano. Over the past 12 months, facilities and programs were evaluated, needs were identified and assessed, and recommendations were developed. There was a great deal of effort to collect public input.

Manager Mountain introduced Project Manager, Pat Hoagland. Mr. Hoagland presented the following:

Planning Phases

• March 2015—Public Engagement—Needs Assessment
• Inventory & Background Analysis
• Vision, Mission, Goals, Objectives
• Draft Recommendations
• Action Plan & Draft Report
• May 2016—Draft Presentation
• Consider/Incorporate comments from the Public Hearing
• Final Adoption

Randolph Parks & Programs

• 13 parks open to the public, with 595 acres
• Over 1,400 acres of undeveloped open space
• Number of participants—over 54,000
• Total program visits—well over 300,000

Public Engagement

• Kick-off meeting on March 18
• Wellness Fair on March 7
• Over 30 Stakeholder Groups
  • Officials and Boards
  • Township Staff
  • Cultural Organizations
  • Sports Organizations
  • Community Service Organizations
  • Business & Sponsors
  • Students
• Over 150 people engaged online

Common Themes

• More artificial turf fields
• Park developed at 90 acre site (variety of facilities) as a community gathering area
• Recreation center (possibly at 90 acre site)
• Interconnected trails with parking and signage
• ADA improvements
• Improvements to Brundage Playhouse, Artworks Studio, and VFW Hall
• Improvements to fields (including drainage)
• Improved Randolph Lake
• More events
• Town pool
• Improved programs and event scheduling/communication

Survey Results

• Statistically valid mail survey—520 responses (goal was 300)
• Web survey—606 responses
  • 98% Randolph residents—14% Fernbrook, 29% Ironia, 14% Mt. Freedom, 30% Shongum, 11% Other within Randolph

Community Attitude and Interest Survey

• Improvements households would most like to see to existing parks (top 8 responses)
  • Improve/add restrooms—mail 35%; web 52%
  • Drinking fountains—mail 31%; web 31%
  • Bike trails & bike lanes—mail 28%; web 28%
  • Expand trails—mail 26%; web 27%
  • Sidewalks/trails—mail 25%; web 34%
  • Trail lighting—mail 22%; web 32%
  • Community vegetable garden—mail 20%; web 27%
  • Security cameras—mail 20%; web 18%

• Most important Parks and Recreation facilities to households in Randolph (top 10 responses)
  • Walking and hiking trails—41%
  • Paved bike trails—22%
  • Large community parks—22%
  • Natural areas/nature parks—18%
  • Outdoor swimming pools/aquatic centers—18%
  • Indoor exercise and fitness facilities—14%
  • Golf courses/driving range/training facilities—14%
  • Small neighborhood parks—14%
  • Senior program facilities—13%
  • Multi-purpose fields—12%

• Most important Parks and Recreation programs to households in Randolph (top 9 responses)
  • Adult fitness and wellness programs—29%
  • Age 50+ programs—24%
  • Concerts—21%
  • Youth sports programs—21%
  • Adult learning (cultural/educational)—16%
  • Nature programs—14%
  • Youth summer camp programs—13%
  • Youth fitness and wellness programs—12%
  • Teen programs—11%

• Most important actions for Randolph to pursue (top 6 responses)
  • Purchase land to preserve open space, natural, and historic areas—32%
  • Upgrade older parks and recreation facilities—26%
  • Develop new recreational trails and connect existing trails—26%
  • Develop an outdoor aquatic facility—20%
  • Upgrade existing youth/adult athletic fields, including new lighting—17%
  • Develop a community vegetable garden (on existing open space/park property)—16%

• How respondents would allocate $100 among parks and recreation improvements
  • Improve/maintain existing parks—$27
  • Develop new walking and biking trails—$17
  • Develop a new indoor recreation facility—$13
  • Develop outdoor facilities for fitness and wellness activities—$13
  • Develop a community vegetable garden—$9
  • Construct new athletic fields—$6
  • Construct new parks—$3
  • Other—$11

Major Recommendations

• Vision & Mission
  • Vision for the future—to provide a wide range of park and recreational services that are fun, connected, and accessible for all residents and visitors. These services will promote community enrichment through the provision of excellent facilities and programs that are equitable and accessible to all residents. Services and facilities will be further enhanced through a focus on sustainability (environmental and financial) and cooperation.
  • Proposed mission statement for Parks and Recreation—to build community and enrich lives through the provision of recreational, educational, and cultural opportunities that encourage residents to enjoy life and have fun.

Guiding Principles

• Compatibility: flexibility, adaptability, and sustainability of the park system
• Fun: excitement and community enrichment through parks and programs
• Connectivity: building community connections
• Accessibility: equitable access to a wide variety of park services
• Cooperation: expansion of facility and program offerings through partnerships
• Excellence: exemplary facilities, programs, and services that ensure safety of users

Major Recommendations

• 90 Acres Site
  • Develop the 90 Acres site as a community park with a focus on facilities that encourage residents to gather and interact.
  • Ensure that the development of the 90 Acres site includes the following amenities: trails, outdoor fitness equipment, an outdoor stage (or bandshell), a community garden, an all-access playground, game courts (pickleball and bocce), and picnic shelters.
  • Develop nature trails to take advantage of existing natural resources at the 90 Acres site and other open space properties where conditions allow.

• Trails
  • Develop a Trail System Master Plan that includes sidewalk improvements, new trail segments, and the prioritization of existing segment connections.
  • Develop all-purpose perimeter trails at Freedom, Heistein, Randolph, Brundage Sussex, and all future parks.

• Athletic Fields
  • Replace field lighting at Heistein, Brundage Carrell, and Brundage Sussex parks, and add lighting to additional fields at Heistein, Freedom, and Randolph parks.
  • Replace the existing artificial turf at Freedom Park and add turf to the second lower field at Freedom Park and the field at Brundage Sussex to increase the availability of fields and reduce the frequency of rainouts.

• Programs
  • Ensure the availability of program offerings for all residents regardless of age or disability.

• Existing Park Improvements
  • Provide paved walkways to all facilities and spectator areas to improve access and meet ADA guidelines.
  • Ensure the availability of support facilities, including restrooms, signage, and drinking fountains at parks in Randolph.
  • Provide Wi-fi hotspots in community and neighborhood parks and install additional lighting at all parks as needed to improve safety and security.

• Funding
  • Encourage the creation of a Friends of Randolph Parks foundation to recruit and organize volunteers, raise funds, and work toward the implementation of this plan.
  • Seek partnerships to mitigate both capital and operating costs for new facilities, particularly for high cost project.

• Excellence
  • Pursue CAPRA Accreditation within the next five years.

Capital Improvements

• The plan projects all of the main recommendations can be completed over 10 years.
• All funded with the existing Open Space Trust Fund (no new taxes)
• Early years (0-2 years)
  • Safety and accessibility improvements
  • Walkways, security cameras, lighting
  • Trail signage
  • Artificial turf at Freedom Park
  • Field lighting
  • 90 Acres park design & development

Manager Mountain opened the discussion to the public.

Public Comments

Chuck Fegley of 36 Tammy Hill Trail stated he was very disappointed that there was nothing about the playhouse. Russ Newman responded that it wasn’t mentioned in the presentation, but in the plan/recommendations, there is money allocated for short-term goals. Pat Hoagland replied that the same applies for Artworks Studio. The committee discussed both facilities in depth, and that they are very important facilities to the community.

John McCormick, of Doby Road asked if there were any statistics on the utilization of the existing trails. He stated that he does not see them being over-utilized, and wanted to know why it is felt that more are needed. Russ Newman replied that there are not trail utilization statistics because it is not something that can be physically done, and that feedback from the residents is why more are being considered. There was discussion about the connectivity of the trails, and if they would extend to the 90 acres site.

Constance Stroh, of 19 Dogwood Trail stated that she has read that some artificial turf fields are bad for the environment, and asked what type were being considered and if there were better types. Pat Hoagland replied that there are better types, and that they are constantly changing. Mrs. Stroh also asked for clarification on the existing Open Space Trust Fund as far as using it for preserving open space and not for recreational or other development; she asked if there is money to maintain open space, or if the current open space might be developed in the future. Manager Mountain explained that the Open Space Trust Fund has a portion for open space preservation, and a portion for park improvement. Those funds are managed proportionately to ensure the resources to maintain and upgrade facilities, as well as acquire open space if it becomes available. In recent years, the number of acquisitions, as well as the available land, has gone down; therefore, there hasn’t been an aggressive push due to fewer opportunities. There is still money dedicated to open space; there is a formula used to determine the proportions for the parks and for the open space.

Judith Stewart, of 114 Everdale Road stated that there is nothing in the plan for an indoor walking area; she felt that it would be especially good for senior citizens, and for use during inclement weather. Pat Hoagland replied that there was a discussion about a recreation center; however, the development and the daily operation of such a facility would be very costly. Manager Mountain added that the steering committee also looked at the available indoor facilities in the community. They felt the best thing to do was to partner with the YMCA and other indoor facilities, instead of trying to compete with them. He added that the recommendations include a lot of multi-generational facilities, but not an indoor recreational area.

Chuck Fegley asked if there were any opportunities during the school day for senior citizens to walk in the gym. Pat Hoagland replied that they hadn’t looked into that, but felt there was most likely a security issue. Manager Mountain agreed that it would be a security issue, and the facilities are being used during the school days.

Constance Stroh stated that the YMCA has an indoor walking track, and felt that perhaps there could be a partnership so that senior citizens could use the facility.

A resident asked if the turf field at Freedom Park is the one needing replacement. Russ Newman responded that it was, and explained the life expectancy of turf fields. She also asked if the 2016 municipal budget included money for this plan. Manager Mountain explained that nothing has been appropriated for Parks and Recreation, other than equipment, which is outside of the recommendations. He is waiting to present to the Council the appropriation plan for recreation until the process of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan has been completed. There are items listed for 2016 that correspond to some of the recommendations, but it has not yet been presented to the Council for action. There was some discussion on the cost of replacing the turf field at Freedom Park and the cost of a new field. Manager Mountain explained that an appropriation such as that would be reserved over several years, it would not be done in one year. Approximately $300,000 to $400,000 in new money would be set aside; there is also some money that was not spent in prior years that will be canceled appropriations that will supplement the money, assuming the recommendations are approved by the Council.

Constance Stroh asked for a timeframe for comments on the plan to be submitted. She felt that the Environmental Commission might want to comment. Manager Mountain stated that there was at least four weeks in which people could comment.

The resident who asked about the turf field at Freedom Park added that she loves the idea of the 90 Acre site being used for a community gathering place, and connecting it to Heisteins Park. She liked the idea of keeping it natural, the garden idea, and the fact that there would be something for all ages. She felt it would be a great asset.

A resident asked what has been discussed about the plans for Artworks Studio. Manager Mountain replied that the recommendation from the plan is that there is a need to do something with Artworks Studio, but the Master Plan did not get into specifics. It recommends that the existing facility, as well as other options, be analyzed; it also recommends funding be set aside for whatever is the result of the analysis.

A resident stated that she felt connecting the trails was very important. Russ Newman explained that a need that was identified was to look at the existing trails to determine where trails could be added in order to connect the trails so that residents could use several trails, and end up back where they started, and not at a different location.

John McCormick stated that park statistics on the downward trend. Since he lives near Heistein Park, he sees the utilization; during spring and fall the park is used, but other than that, it isn’t used much. He questioned why there was a need for more space for recreation when there are already 13 parks and 1,400 acres which are not utilized to their fullest extent. He also stated that he felt this would impact his taxes; he felt that the current facilities need to be maintained before additional parks are created. Manager Mountain directed Mr. McCormick to review the recommendation section of the plan since a good portion of the recommendations related to improvements to, or maintenance of, the existing facilities. The recommendations for new initiatives are the 90 Acre site, and the expansion of the turf fields; the Council will make the final decision. Manager Mountain added that this is a projection, the actual appropriation process which he and the Council go through to approach the approval for funding of any of the items, is part of the budgeting process; there will be a short term and a long term component. It will be done in a manner as to not increase the impact on taxes.

Councilwoman Veech noted that Section 8 of the report contains the individual park recommendations, as well as the timeframe for the park improvements.

Manager Mountain stated that once the Council receives feedback from any groups or individuals who did not yet have the opportunity to do so, a public meeting will be scheduled for the Council to discuss their thoughts on the plan. Depending on the discussions from the Council and the public at that meeting, a decision will be made as to whether to adopt the plan or to have an additional meeting.

Mayor Hirniak explained that the public will still have the opportunity to provide feedback at the public meetings, as well as by contacting any Council member or the Manager directly.

Hearing no further questions or comments from the public or from the Council, the public hearing was closed.

L. 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:

Potential Litigation

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 will reconvene in public session for the purpose of taking formal action.

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to move into Executive Session at 8:05 p.m. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

Councilman Guadagno made a motion to close the Executive Session at 8:30 p.m. Councilman Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello

M. ADJOURNMENT

Councilman Forstenhausler made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Councilman Guadagno seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilman Napoliello