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, 2022
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 Potter. 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 19, 2021, by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on November 18, 2021. 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 24, 2021.
2. Roll Call
PRESENT:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
Also present: Township Manager Mountain, and Township Attorney Edward J. Buzak (via phone)
3. Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Potter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
B. PRESENTATION/PROCLAMATION
1. VFW Buddy Poppy Distribution
VFW Post 7333 Representative John Reilly thanked the council on behalf of Post Commander Angel Soto. He explained that the veterans rely on the sale of Buddy Poppy's to fund various charitable, educational, and civic activities during the year. The contributions received are most appreciated and very helpful to support hospital contributions, scholarships, and more. He thanked the council, mayor and manager for their continued support.
Mayor Potter read the VFW Buddy Poppy Distributions Proclamation into the record:
Buddy Poppy Distribution May 1 through May 30, 2022
WHEREAS, the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has been officially recognized and endorsed by governmental leaders since 1922; and
WHEREAS, VFW Buddy Poppies are assembled by disabled veterans, and the proceeds of this worthy fund-raising campaign are used exclusively for the benefit of disabled and needy veterans, and the widows and orphans of deceased veterans; and
WHEREAS, the basic purpose of the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars is eloquently reflected in the desire to "Honor the Dead by Helping the Living."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Marie Potter, Mayor of the Township of Randolph, do hereby urge the citizens of this community to recognize the merits of this cause by contributing generously to its support through the purchase of Buddy Poppies from May 1 through May 30, 2022, which are symbols of appreciation for the sacrifices of our honored dead.
FURTHER, I urge all patriotic citizens to wear a Buddy Poppy as mute evidence of our gratitude to the men and women of this country who have risked their lives in defense of the freedoms which we continue to enjoy as American citizens.
Mr. Reilly reminded everyone that the Vietnam Moving Wall Memorial would be coming to the County College of Morris in July. The VFW anticipates that many people will be coming to the memorial to pay their respects. He thanked the Township Council, the County College of Morris and the many memorial volunteers for their support on the project. There was a brief discussion on how the memorial event would be held and how individuals can volunteer to assist.
2. R-101-22 Designating the Month of May 2022 "Bag Up NJ" Month
Council Member Forstenhausler read R-101-22 Designating the Month of May 2022 Bag Up NJ" Month into the record:
WHEREAS, P.L.202, c.117, signed into law on November 4, 2020, is the most progressive disposable bag law in the country, with the goal of phasing out single-use plastic and paper bags and encouraging the use of reusable bags throughout New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, New Jersey is working to reduce reliance on single-use products to ensure that future generations have a clean and healthy environment to live, work, and recreate in; and
WHEREAS, banning or limiting the use of single-use plastic and paper carryout bags is a significant step in this effort; and
WHEREAS, the New Jersey Clean Communities Council, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the New Jersey Department of State, policymakers, environmental and business groups, as well as other stakeholders, are working together to educate consumers, businesses, and communities about the new law and encouraging residents to "Bag Up" before the ban on single-use plastic bags goes into effect on May 4, 2022; and
WHEREAS, the comprehensive "Bag Up NJ" campaign will include educational programs, public and media engagement and reusable bag distribution programs throughout the state, with an emphasis on underserved communities; and
WHEREAS, this statewide public education campaign will provide residents, businesses and visitors with information about the types of reusable and sustainable bags and containers that they may use and where to access these products.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Randolph Township Council that it is critical to begin educating the public about this new law; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that one way to gain important recognition is to deem the month of May each year as "Bag Up NJ" month in Randolph, as a further reminder that all residents should bring their own reusable bags to the store; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to the NJ Clean Communities Council, and the New Jersey State League of Municipalities.
Jay Thomson, Kelly Meola, and Carol Lindsay of the Advisory Environmental and Landmarks Advisory Committee were in attendance. Mrs. Meola shared that the committee has been actively promoting this law via social media and other township communication. She stated that Health Officer Mark Caputo has assisted with disseminating the reusable bags to residents. She stated that the committee hoped to continue to promote activities that benefit the environment.
C. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Seeing and hearing none, the public portion was closed.
D. MANAGER'S REPORT
Manager Mountain reported the following:
Shongum Lake Dredging/Special Assessment Project Update - The project to review the approach for a special assessment in the event the township and Shongum Lake Homeowner's Association decide to proceed with an NJDEP loan for lake dredging is underway. The project consultant has collected the background information needed from the township and is now in the process of collecting the same from the Homeowner's Association. The goal of the project is to confirm the universe of properties to be considered part of the association and the appropriate methodology for assessing the cost of the project on participating member properties. The consultant expects to have their report completed by mid-June. The project cost will be funded by the Shongum Lake Property Owner's Association. A team of township staff and association members are working together to steer the consultant's work. Upon the receipt of the report from the consultant the Association and Township Council will need to determine agreement on the next steps in the process, which will likely be the association re-surveying its membership to confirm project support.
Council Member Veech asked how the participants would be determined; she recalled that people with direct view of the lake were included. Manager Mountain explained that the project consultant would be confirming which properties make up the universe. They would also be confirming whether there would be a wait time based on how the assessment is drawn up.
Council Member Forstenhausler commented that they would be surveying the people that are included in the property's Homeowners Association. Manager Mountain explained that they are currently focusing on making sure that everyone presented is proven to be a member by deed.
New Hires - Recently, the township has had two new hires within the municipal organization. Lindsay Kramer has been appointed to fill the Finance Assistant position vacated by Angelica Sabatini. Ms. Kramer possess an excellent background in finance and accounting, which has allowed her to transition seamlessly into the organization. Ray Gelpke has been appointed to fill the Brundage Park Theater Manager position left vacant by Vivien Lenyk's retirement. Mr. Gelpke has over 40 years of experience, and has worked in every area of theater, both on the production side and venue management side. Mr. Gelpke has been involved with the Brundage Park Playhouse as a volunteer and is a Randolph resident.
May 19th Council Meeting - Manager Mountain informed the council that he would not be in attendance during the May 19, 2022 council meeting as he will be present for his daughter's graduation ceremony. He shared that Planning and Zoning Administrator Darren Carney would be covering the meeting in his place.
Councilman Lance Tkacs - Manager Mountain shared that this would be Council Member Lance Tkacs' last meeting. Council Member Tkacs and his wife have decided to move and therefore he must step down from his position as a member of the Township Council. Council Member Tkacs has been an outstanding member of the Township Council since becoming a member in 2019. During his time on the council, Council Member Tkacs has been a calm and steady presence, always prepared and on top of the issues, asking good questions and offering great perspective from his many years as a corporate director and community leader. What will most especially be missed is Council Member Tkacs' sense of humor. Even when his voice was temporarily restricted due to a medical procedure, he found ways to lighten a mood or break the tension on a difficult discussion. Manager Mountain stated that it was a pleasure to know and to work with him; he thanked the council member for all his support, time and contributions as a member of the council. He wished Council Member Tkacs and his wife the best on their move.
E. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES
1. Approving the Regular Council Meeting Minutes for April 7, 2022 and April 21, 2022
Council Member Tkacs made a motion to approve Regular Council Meeting Minutes for April 7, 2022 and April 21, 2022. Council Member Forstenhausler seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:
AYES:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
NAYS: None
F. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS
Council Member Tkacs read item #8, R-100-22 Recognizing May 2022 as National Mental Health Awareness Month, into the record:
WHEREAS, mental illness can affect individuals of any race, religion, economic status or age; and
WHEREAS, millions of adults and children across America experience mental illness including, but not limited to, anxiety depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Nearly one in five Americans lives with mental illness. Those living with mental illness are our family, friends, classmates, neighbors, and coworkers; and
WHEREAS, discrimination remains in existence against those with mental illness and can make it difficult for them to find and reach out for help. This stigma associated with the disease of mental illness is identified as the primary reason individuals fail to seek the help they need; and
WHEREAS, mental health is critical to the overall well-being of individuals, families, communities and businesses and proper identification and treatment of mental illnesses, including support, are proven to be effective and are vitally important to assist individuals in leading full, productive lives; and
WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph is committed to its Stigma Free Community initiative established in 2017 by ensuring that people living with mental illness are treated with compassion, respect, and understanding and is dedicated to ensuring that everyone knows that help exists, and that the support needed to heal, recover, and thrive is available to them through local resources; and
WHEREAS, the Township of Randolph's Municipal Alliance Committee (MAC) continues to focus on awareness of resources, to encourage residents of all ages to be mindful of their mental health, to create open dialogues about stigma, to raise awareness of the disease of mental illness and create a culture wherein residents feel supported by their community and feel free to seek treatment for the disease without fear of stigma; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, County of Morris, State of New Jersey hereby declare May 2022 as National Mental Health Awareness Month and call upon citizens, government agencies, organizations, and health care providers to raise mental health awareness and continue helping Americans live longer, healthier lives.
1. R-93-22 Awarding a Lease of Real Property Owned by the Township of Randolph for Co-Location by Wireless Telephone Carriers
2. R-94-22 Authorizing the purchase of First Priority Group's AM20SEO2 - (Type III E-40 a Chassis Ambulance Remount) through the Houston-Galveston Area Council - $135,255.08
CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS
Dated: May 5, 2022
As required by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-57, N.J.A.C. 5:30-5.3-5.5, and any other applicable requirement, I, Deborah Bonanno, Director of Finance for the Township of Randolph, have ascertained that funds are available to award a contract in the amount of $135,255.08 to First Priority Group for an ambulance remount using the H-GAC Contract #AM10-20.
Deborah Bonanno
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 04-215-56-002-301 not to exceed $50,353.58
04-215-56-018-300 not to exceed $84,901.50
3. R-95-22 Authorizing Contracts with additional approved State Contract Vendors for Contracting Units pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-12a
4. R-96-22 Rescinding Liquor License No. 1432-33-001-012 Dabal Enterprises, LLC - Special Ruling Pending
5. R-97-22 Refund overpayment made in error for Block 82, Lot 27, for the 4th quarter 2021 taxes to Bogota Savings Bank - $5,270.26
6. R-98-22 Refund Tax Sale Certificate $=#18-18 for Block 80, Lot 11, 9 Birch St to Archer Financial, LLC - $15,550.75
7. R-99-22 Refund cash road opening bond for the purposes of resurfacing a driveway at 8 Blanchard Ct, Block 229, Lot 79.04 to Karyn Reader
8. R-100-22 Recognizing May 2022 as National Mental Health Awareness Month
9. R-101-22 Designating the Month of May 2022 "Bag Up NJ" Month
Council Member Forstenhausler made a motion to approve the Combined Action Resolutions. Council Member Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:
AYES:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
NAYS: None
G. UPCOMING EVENTS
Council Member Veech informed that council that they have been invited to the Randolph Bull Dogs 60th Anniversary Celebration on August 26, 2022.
- Healthy Body-Healthy Mind Expo on Saturday, May 7, 2022, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Randolph Community Center and Randolph Library on Calais Road
- Tree Dedication by Mommy & Me at Veterans Park on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. (rain or shine)
- Artworks Studio, 18th Annual Student Art Show, Open House - Saturday, May 14, 2022, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.
- Randolph Chamber of Commerce, at La Strada, Route 10, Randolph, Thursday, May 19 at 11:45 a.m.
- Arts in the Park, at Veterans Community Park, 100 Calais Road, Randolph, Saturday, May 21, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Morris County League of Municipalities Meeting, Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at Caffe NaVona in Rockaway Boro
- Randolph Chamber of Commerce Multi-Chamber Networking, at the Randolph Diner on Route 10, Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at 11:30 a.m.
- Randolph Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Evening Networking on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
H. ORDINANCES: INTRODUCTION
1. Ordinance No. 15-22 Amending and Supplementing Section 31-52 of Chapter 31, Traffic and Vehicles, of the Revised Ordinances of the Township of Randolph, Morris County, NJ
Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to amend Section 31-52 of Chapter 31, Traffic and Vehicles, of the Revised Ordinances of the Township of Randolph, to designate two intersections as stop intersections.
BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled "An Ordinance Amending and Supplementing Section 31-52 of Chapter 31, Traffic and Vehicles, of the Revised Ordinances of the Township of Randolph, Morris County, New Jersey" 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 19th, of May, 2022 at 6 o'clock in the evening, prevailing time, at the Town Hall 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.
Mayor Potter asked if there have been any accidents in the area or if there was general confusion with the traffic pattern. Manager Mountain explained that there have been a few accidents in the area over the years, not a lot, but there is confusion at the intersection.
Council Member Loveys commented that this has been going on for several years. He remembered being the liaison member to the Traffic Advisory Committee when the issue was first discussed. He commented that it was a legitimate concern.
Council Member Forstenhausler asked that moveable flashing signs be placed in the area to make sure people do not miss the new signs and are aware the stop signs will be coming soon.
Council Member Forstenhausler made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Council Member Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:
AYES:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
NAYS: None
I. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Seeing and hearing none, the public portion was closed.
J. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council Member Forstenhausler had nothing to report for this meeting.
Council Member Loveys reported that the Lacrosse Program Bounce Wall Dedication in honor of Dr. Joe Nazzaro was a well-attended event. He commented that Dr. Nazzaro was a long-time resident and volunteer. He stated that many of the community's successful recreation programs held over the years could be attributed to Dr. Nazzaro.
He concluded his reported by stating that Council Member Tkacs would be missed. He commented that it was a pleasure knowing Council Member Tkacs and his wife. He thanked Council Member Tkacs for all he has done and wished his family well in South Carolina.
Council Member Forstenhausler thanked Council Member Tkacs for all his dedication and hard work. He commented that Council Member Tkacs never shirked his duties as a council person and stuck through with the council, even throughout his health issues. He stated that his efforts were appreciated, and that the council would miss him. He wished Council Member Tkacs the all the best in his retirement.
He reported that he attended the Randolph Indian Association's Holi Celebration on Sunday, April 24. He commented that it was an interesting event with food, music, and a wonderful atmosphere; he and his daughter had a great time.
Council Member Carey attended the opening day of Little League Season. She commented that many people were at the event. She shared that along with Council Member Veech and Mayor Potter, she attended an orientation for the Morris Habitat for Humanity Women's Build event; also in attendance was Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. She attended that Ironia Firehouse Pancake Breakfast. She attended a Traffic Advisory Committee meeting and a Facility Work Group meeting.
Council Member Veech explained that two buildings have already been built as a result of the Morris Habitat for Humanity Women's Build event. She shared that she has assisted with distributing the Economic Development Committee's support local business signs. She visited the Mar Thoma Church to present a proclamation celebrating the organization's 40-year Ruby Celebration.
She attended the community shredding event and commented that the operation was great. She shared that she had heard positive feedback on the community garage sale event. She informed the public that a seed exchange box has been installed at the community garden; the garden is looking to install benches as well.
She attended a Facilities Work Group meeting and a Communication Work Group meeting. She attended the Ironia Firehouse Dinner. She shared an idea for creating a support/volunteer group to assist the Fire Department.
Council Member Tkacs shared that he attended the Municipal Alliance Committee (MAC) meeting. He shared that the Healthy Body, Healthy Mind event would be held on May 7, 2022. Currently, the event has over 40 exhibitors signed up and the list is continuing to grow.
He shared that the MAC voted to support the weekly Hope Recovery Center events at Ironia Methodist Church through June. He reported that the two police officers will be attending Crisis Intervention Training; this was a topic that came up during DISC discussions in the past.
Council Member Tkacs shared a few words about his time serving on the council and living in the Randolph community. He stated that it was an honor to have served on the council for the past five years and that he felt honored to have been elected twice. He considered each of the council members a friend. He thanked the council for their respect and professionalism and thanked them for their support throughout his cancer treatments. He thanked the council for putting up with his humor and for all the time they have spent working together. He stated that each of them had a place in his heart and that he was a richer person for knowing them. He stated that he loves Randolph and that he was happy to have used his time to keep it a wonderful place to live and raise a family.
Council Member Veech thanked Council Member Tkacs for his service. She stated that he would be missed.
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia wished Council Member Tkacs all the best.
He reported that he attended the Ironia Fire House Dinner and the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the UPS Store. He attended the YMCA Healthy Kids Day event with Council Member Forstenhausler. He thanked the township's first responders for their presence at the event. He attended the Randolph Meeting House Open House event. He shared that the meeting house friends were grateful for the township's support in obtaining grant money to redo the roof. The group has discussed renovations and parking plans. They have also reached out to Manager Mountain for assistance with tree trimming.
He shared that he attended the Recreation Volunteer Award Ceremony and a Communication Work Group Meeting. During the meeting, everyone agreed that the quality and quantity of information being communicated had improved. He shared that Swift Reach has been acquired by Rave under a county contract and that this development would save the township an estimated $12,000 a year. He commented that he was looking forward to using the Rave system as it will enable more social media features.
He reported that the township webmaster would be retiring and that the bid process to find a new web provider has started. He concluded his report by sharing that the Communication Work Group will be reviewing a list of annual events and news items.
Mayor Potter reported that she attended the Morris Habitat for Humanity Women's Build event with Council Member Veech and Council Member Carey. She reported that the EDC met on Tuesday, May 3; the committee is finalizing the bench dedication for Peter Kenny and will be seeking donations. She shared that the EDC support local business signs have begun to be distributed. She suggested that during the distribution, Randolph Local Business Spotlight Questionnaires also be passed out to businesses. She reported that the EDC would be having a giveaway through social media.
She shared that Council Member Tkacs has lived in the community for over 20 years with his wife and three children. She explained that Council Member Tkacs had started his volunteer experience before his time in Randolph, having served on a Board of Directors for a local Red Cross Chapter and in leadership positions at his church. She shared that he started his volunteer work in Randolph with a project to analyze the Route 10 and Dover Chester Intersection.
She shared that Council Member Tkacs served on numerous township boards and committees, as well as on the County College of Morris Board of Trustees. Additionally, Council Member Tkacs also served on two county-level boards; the Railway Advisory Committee and the Solid Waste Advisory Committee. She commented that Council Member Tkacs' humorous side, paired greatly with his analytical side. She wished him and his wife the best.
Council Member Veech asked Manager Mountain when Mike Guadagno would be coming in to present a report on RVRSA. Manager Mountain stated that it was a matter of if the report would be presented during a public meeting or a Council Infrastructure Work Group meeting. He stated that he typically receives an update from Mr. Guadagno every few months.
K. EXECUTIVE SESSION
WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231, P.L. 1975 (N.J.S.A. 10:4-12) permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting under certain circumstances; and
WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, and State of New Jersey, as follows:
1. The public shall be excluded from the Executive portion of the meeting.
2. The general nature of the subject matter to be discussed is as follows:
a. Mount Freedom Golf Deed Restriction
b. Affordable Housing 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.
Council Member Forstenhausler made a motion to move into Executive Session at 6:55 p.m. Council Member Veech seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:
AYES:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
NAYS: None
Council Member Veech made a motion to close Executive Session at 7:55 p.m. Council Member Forstenhausler seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:
AYES:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
NAYS: None
L. ADJOURNMENT
Council Member Tkacs made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:55 p.m. Council Member Forstenhausler seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:
AYES:
Council Member Carey
Council Member Forstenhausler
Council Member Loveys
Council Member Tkacs
Council Member Veech
Deputy Mayor Nisivoccia
Mayor Potter
NAYS: None