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

Minutes: May 6, 2021

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 Forstenhausler. This meeting is held pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Adequate and electronic 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, on the main entrance doors to 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 2, 2020, by emailing them the annual resolution adopted by the Council on November 12, 2020. 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, 2020. The amended annual resolution was adopted by the Council on January 21, 2021 and notice was provided by email to the Randolph Reporter, the Morris County Daily Record and TapInto Randolph on January 22, 2021. The amended annual resolution which included this meeting date was advertised in the Randolph Reporter, the official newspaper of Randolph Township and the Morris County Daily Record on January 28, 2021.

2. Roll Call

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

Also present: Township Manager Mountain and Township Attorney Edward J. Buzak (via Zoom)

3. Pledge of Allegiance

Mayor Forstenhausler led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Forstenhausler asked for a moment silence to reflect and pray for the people in India who are sick and dying from COVID-19.

He acknowledged that it was National Nurses Day and thanked nurses for their dedication and services.

B. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Council is now open to the public. If you plan to address the Township Council please bear in mind that you will be asked to limit your comments to six minutes. Should you reach the five-minute mark, you will be advised that you have one minute remaining. If you go past the six-minute mark, your microphone will be muted.

Leslie Moran of 42 Oak Lane thanked Mayor Forstenhausler for responding to her inquiries about a proclamation for Gun Violence Awareness Day. Mrs. Moran shared that the proclamation related to the deaths of 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton in Chicago in 2013, the murder of her Child Study Team Secretary’s child in Washington Township, Long Valley, and the murder of her college roommate’s daughter. She informed the council of a national figure that demonstrated that 2/3 of gun deaths are results of suicides. She hoped the council would acknowledge how times have changed for schools in response to gun violence and safety. She wanted the council to consider the proclamation as a part of a societal conversation occurring on local and national levels. Mrs. Moran asked the council to consider joining neighboring towns in acknowledging gun violence as a serious public health problem. She hoped that the non-partisan nature of the proclamation was clear.

Tara Corduan of 145 Selma Boulevard shared the story of a friend whose family suffered a tragic loss and had firsthand experience with gun violence. Her friend was shot by her husband, and the husband then shot himself, leaving their children orphaned. She stated that the husband legally owned the gun, and suffered from mental illness and fanciful delusions. She shared her childhood experiences with Randolph Police visiting her home to address disturbances that were a result of her WWII Veteran father’s PTSD. She stated that though the police would respond many times to her home, never did they take away his guns or check on the young children within. She shared that as a young child she had played with her father’s handgun more than once, even though she was told not to. She urged the council to pass the proclamation.

Mayor Forstenhausler thanked Mrs. Corduan for her comments.

Seeing and hearing no one further, the public portion was closed.

C. MANAGER’S REPORT

Manager Mountain explained the following:

COVID-19 Update - The number of reported COVID-19 cases in Randolph have continued to trend lower over the past two weeks. Since the council’s last regular meeting 35 new cases have been reported, including 2 new confirmed cases today. Randolph’s total number of cases is now up to 1,971.
COVID-19 Vaccination Rollout - As of today over 3.4 million people have been fully vaccinated for the COVID-19 in New Jersey, including over 217,235 in Morris County. The supply of vaccines appear to have finally caught-up with demand and most local locations are now taking walk-ins and no longer requiring appointments. The Township Health Department has shifted its focus to outreach to populations who may not be seeking vaccines or in need of additional assistance in obtaining a shot. Residents in need of assistance should contact the Health Department.
COVID Restrictions - In response to the success of the vaccination roll-out and lower infection rates state-wide, the Governor announced plans for several significant changes to COVID restrictions this past Monday. The changes effective immediately include:
- Outdoor gatherings limit - The limit will increase to 500 persons, up from 200.
- Large venue outdoor capacity - The maximum capacity allowed will increase to 50% for venues with 1,000 fixed seats or more.
- Increase in maximum capacity for certain indoor activities - Currently, indoor catered events are limited to 35% of the capacity of the room in which they are held, up to 150 persons. The capacity limit for those events, including proms, will be raised to 50%, up to a maximum of 250 individuals. The capacity limit for indoor political events, weddings, funerals, memorial services, and performances will also increase accordingly.
- Dance floors at private catered events - Dance floors would be permitted to open at such events, with masking and social distancing requirements in place. Dance floors would remain closed at bars and other related businesses, such as nightclubs.
- Permit carnivals and fairs to operate at the amusement business capacity -Carnivals and fairs may now operate at the same capacity as large outdoor amusements.
- Bar seating - The prohibition on indoor bar seating will be lifted.
- Buffets - The restriction on self-service food, like buffets, at restaurants will be lifted
Additional changes are scheduled to go into effect Wednesday, May 19. These include:
- Complete removal of outdoor gathering limit - Attendees at outdoor gatherings will still be required to remain six feet apart from other groups.
- Indoor gathering limit - The general indoor gathering limit will be raised to 50 persons, up from 25 persons. The limit applies to general social gatherings, such as birthday parties and events in people’s homes. Commercial gatherings and gatherings organized and operated by an overseeing entity (e.g. conferences, expositions, meetings of fraternal organizations, job trainings, events hosted by senior centers) will be subject to the 250-person indoor gathering limit that applies to indoor catered events, as long as all attendees can remain six feet apart.
- Complete removal of all percentage capacity limits for indoor and outdoor businesses, and houses of worship - Any business, whether indoors or outdoors that is subject to a percentage capacity limitation will instead be guided by the rule regarding six feet of distance between persons or groups of persons.
- Indoor large venue capacity - The capacity limit for indoor large venues will increase from 20% to 30% and the definition of a large venue would shift from those with 2,500 fixed seats to those with 1,000 fixed seats. The requirement that individuals or groups of individuals that purchase tickets together remain six feet apart would remain in place.
Return to In-person meetings - In light of the aforementioned easing of COVID-19 restrictions, the town will be returning to in-person meetings, including Township Council meetings effective Wednesday, May 19. The in-person Council meetings will be starting at 6 p.m. An advertisement will be going out shortly noting the change.
June 10 Council meeting - The Clerk’s office has requested that the June 10 council meeting be changed to Tuesday, June 8 to align with the night of the primary election. If no one on the Council has an objection the township will advertise the change.
Senior Environmental Health Specialist appointment - Manager Mountain announced the hiring of Scott Aue, to fill the Senior REHS position in the Health Department. Mr. Aue is replacing Karolyn Kimble; who has done a tremendous job holding the position down on a part time basis over the past couple of years. Mr. Aue comes from the Morris County Department of Health. He has been the County’s Senior REHS since 2009 and is very highly regarded. Manager Mountain stated that he was an excellent fit and should be able to hit the ground running because of his experience.
He mentioned that the activities scheduled for last weekend, i.e. Clean Communities Day, Community Wide Garage Sale, and Shredding Event were all successful. The township appreciated the public’s participation.

Mayor Forstenhausler confirmed that the Thursday, June 10 meeting would be changed to Tuesday, June 8, at 6 p.m.

D. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES

1. Approving the Regular Council Meeting Minutes from March 4, 2021

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to approve the Regular Meeting minutes for March 4, 2021. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

F. COMBINED ACTION RESOLUTIONS

Item #23, R-122-21, Recognizing May 2021 as National Mental Health Awareness Month - Mayor Forstenhausler informed the public that this proclamation was available online for anyone interested in viewing it.

Item #6, R-105-21, Authorizing the Township Manager to endorse the Treatment Works Approval - TWA - application to NJDEP - Councilman Nisivoccia asked for clarification on this resolution. Manager Mountain informed him that Alfa Bagel was seeking to extend their sewer connection. In order for them to accomplish the extension, the township must endorse their application even though it is not a township project.

R-100-21 Refund registration for child to attend Summer Tennis and Spring Little League programs due to Covid-19 to Jacquelyn Go - $410.00
R-101-21 Refund Day Camp summer program fee due to conflict with schooling schedule to Marybeth Sabates - $525.00
R-102-21 Refund tax sale certificate for Block 215, Lot 16, 154 W. Hanover Avenue to Tom Tiehua Cao & Michele Qing Chang - $5,646.46
R-103-21 Refund escrow for police detail to Oweis Engineering, Inc. $3,399.30
R-104-21 Authorizing submission of a Supplemental Funding application to the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders stating that the Township will provide a 50% match in the amount of $1,000.00 to the Municipal Alliance Committee (MAC)
R-105-21 Authorizing the Township Manager to endorse the Treatment Works Approval - TWA - application to NJDEP for the construction of a sewer force main along Route 10 and connecting to the Township sanitary sewer collection system
R-106-21 Extending the contract with Building Inspection Underwriters, Inc. for Electrical Subcode Inspection services for the period of June 1, 2021 through May 31, 2021

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: May 6, 2021

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 2021 General Budget, Electrical Inspections, O&E and the 2022 General Budget, Electrical Inspections, O&E (Pending Adoption) to award a contract to BIU for electrical sub-code inspection services, per its proposal submitted to the Township.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 01-201-22-200-300 (not to exceed $52,500)
01-201-22-200-300 2022 Budget - Pending Adoption (not to exceed $37,500)

8. R-107-21 Extending the maintenance contract for Township’s Fire Apparatus (rebid) with Fire & Safety Services, Ltd.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: May 6, 2021

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 2021 General Budget, Vehicle Maintenance, O&E, and the 2022 General Budget, Vehicle Maintenance, O&E (Pending Adoption) to award a contract extension to Fire and Safety Services for fire apparatus maintenance, per its proposal submitted to the Township.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 01-201-26-315-308 (not to exceed $5,000)
01-201-26-315-308 2022 Budget - Pending Adoption (not to exceed $5,000)

9. R-108-21 Authorizing Change Order #1 for an increase of $10,810 with SIV Ambulances for the re-bid remount/refurbish 2000 Road Rescue Type III Ambulance project bringing the contract total to $112,310.

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: May 6, 2021

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 Capital Fund, Ordinance 17-14 - amended by Ordinance 16-21, Ordinance 13-16 - amended by Ordinance 16-21 and Ordinance 06-18 - amended by Ordinance 16-21, to award a change order contract to the SIV Ambulance, per its proposal submitted to the Township.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 04-215-55-990-303 (not to exceed $1,046.40)
04-215-55-975-302 (not to exceed $8,257.62)
04-215-55-958-301 (not to exceed $1,505.98)

R-109-21 Authorizing contracts with an additional approved MCCPC contract vendor under the MCCPC
R-110-21 Release cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of resurfacing the driveway at 114 Everdale Road, Block 119, Lot 1 to Alfa Investments - $500.00
R-111-21 Release road opening cash bond posted for the purpose of resurfacing the driveway at 22 Meadowbrook Rd., Block 206, Lot 1 to Brian Wildstein - $500.00
R-112-21 Release road opening cash bond for the purpose of connecting to the Township water service at 70 Old Brookside Rd., Block 93, Lot 30 to Todd Glidden - $500.00
R-113-21 Release cash road opening bond for the purpose of connecting to the Township water service to Edward Sefcik - $500.00
R-114-21 Release road opening cash bond for the purpose of connecting to the Township water service at 33 Longview Avenue, Block 82, Lot 68 to Deborah Ramik - $500.00
R-115-21 Release cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of connecting to the Township sanitary sewer service at 71 Shongum Road, Block 201, Lot 47 to Tommy Kaminski - $500.00
R-116-21 Release cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of connecting to the Township sanitary sewer service at 5 Jay Drive, Block 103, Lot 41 to Barton Jones - $500.00
R-117-21 Release cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of replacing the driveway at 23 Smallbrook Circle, Block 199.03, Lot 2 to Adriano Rebelo - $500.00
R-118-21 Release cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of replacing the retaining wall and walkway at 22 Treaty Road to Lara Emanuele - $500.00
R-119-21 Release cash road opening bond posted for the purpose of connecting to the Township sanitary sewer service and township water service at 11 Highview Terrace, Block 54, Lot 4.04 to Nina Potter - $500.00
R-120-21 Refund registration fee for Rompers Pre-School Program due to incorrect payment and child coming in to the middle of the school year to Holly Klosek - $600.00
R-121-21 Authorizing Change Order #1in the amount of $94,304.50 to Tiffany Electric, Inc. for the Brundage Park Lighting Project bringing the new total to $740,784.50

CERTIFICATION OF AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Dated: May 6, 2021

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 Capital Fund, Ordinance 16-14, Ordinance 10-18 and Ordinance 1-20- to award a change order contract to the Tiffany Electric, per its proposal submitted to the Township.

Darren Maloney
Chief Financial Officer
Budget Accounts: 04-215-56-009-300 (not to exceed $78,520)
04-215-55-961-307 (not to exceed $13,650.80)
04-215-55-993-304 (not to exceed 2,133.70)

23. R-122-21 Recognizing May 2021 as National Mental Health Awareness Month

Councilwoman Carey made a motion to approve the Combined Action Resolutions. Deputy Mayor Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

AYES:
Councilwoman Carey
Councilman Loveys
Councilman Nisivoccia
Councilman Tkacs
Deputy Mayor Potter
Mayor Forstenhausler - Abstain from R-107-21

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

F. ORDINANCES: SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING

1. Ordinance No. 10-21 Appropriating $900,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for the 2021 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 2021 Road Overlay Program”, be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides the funding for the 2021 Road Overlay Program.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session 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 2021 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.

Mayor Forstenhausler commented that he was very happy that the township was continuing the Road Improvement Program; the program was trimmed down a little bit because of the quality of the roads and the drastic improvement over the last several years. He stated that the town has done a great job of maintaining and resurfacing roads.

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

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

2. Ordinance No. 11-21 An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $851,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2021 Capital Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $851,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2021 Capital Improvements” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides the funding for various 2021 Capital Improvements for the Rescue Squad, Police Department, Parks and Recreation Department, Fire Department and improvements to municipally owned properties.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Appropriating $851,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Various 2021 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.

Councilwoman Carey made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

3. Ordinance No. 12-21 Appropriating $35,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Retaining Wall Improvements

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance Appropriating $35,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Retaining Wall Improvements” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance provides funding for retaining wall improvements in various locations of the Township.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “An Ordinance Appropriating $35,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Retaining Wall 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.

Mayor Forstenhausler explained that the retaining wall project was an ongoing effort to address the wood retaining walls that were installed many years ago. The deteriorating wood walls are being replaced with concrete. He fully supported this program.

Deputy Mayor Potter made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

4. Ordinance No. 13-21 Bond Ordinance Providing for the Improvement of Calais Road (Phase 1) In and By the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, NJ, Appropriating $500,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $142,500 Bonds for Notes of the Township for Financing Such Appropriation

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “Bond Ordinance Providing for the Improvement of Calais Road (Phase 1) In and By the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, NJ, Appropriating $500,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $142,500 Bonds for 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 township portion of the Calais Road Improvements (Phase 1) state aid project. The township is receiving a $350,000 grant from the state for the project.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “Bond Ordinance Providing for the Improvement of Calais Road (Phase 1) In and By the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, NJ, Appropriating $500,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $142,500 Bonds for 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.

Mayor Forstenhausler commented that it was nice to know that some of the state’s transportation money was coming back to the township. He stated that the township was saving quite a bit of money for the Calais Road project with the state aid. He commended Manager Mountain and his staff for making sure everything was in order.

Councilman Loveys asked what the Section 20 costs of $40K represented. Manager Mountain responded that he could not recall, but he would provide him with the answer.

Councilman Nisivoccia asked if the second phase of the project would be determined via ordinance again the following year. Manager Mountain confirmed that he was correct.

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

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

5. Ordinance No. 14-21 Bond Ordinance Appropriating $445,000 and Authorizing the Issuance of $422,750 Bonds or Notes of the Township, for Various Improvements or Purposes Authorized to be Undertaken by the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “Bond Ordinance Appropriating $445,000 and Authorizing the Issuance of $422,750 Bonds or Notes of the Township, for Various Improvements or Purposes Authorized to be Undertaken by the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this bond ordinance provides the funding for the purchase of of two pick-up trucks and a compact loader for the Department of Public Works and upgrades the HVAC system and chiller at the Municipal Building.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “Bond Ordinance Appropriating $445,000 and Authorizing the Issuance of $422,750 Bonds or Notes of the Township, for Various Improvements or Purposes Authorized to be Undertaken by the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey” 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.

Attorney Buzak explained that the Section 20 costs were set in statute 48:2-20. It covers items related to interest, accounting fees, engineering fees, cost for authorizing and issuing applications, compensation, survey expenses, etc. He explained that the Section 20 part of the appropriation consisted of high estimations to prevent having to amend the bond ordinance for insufficient funds. The item is a contingency; it is not required to be spent.

Councilman Loveys thanked Attorney Buzak for the explanation, he was glad to hear that it was not an addition to the appropriation.

Deputy Mayor Potter made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

6. Ordinance No. 15-21 Bond Ordinance Providing for the Acquisition of New Equipment for use by the Fire Department of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $690,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $655,000 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 Equipment for use by the Fire Department of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $690,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $655,000 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 Fire Department’s purchasing of new and additional equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus units.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “Bond Ordinance Providing for the Acquisition of New Equipment for use by the Fire Department of the Township of Randolph, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, Appropriating $690,000 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $655,000 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 Loveys made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Deputy Mayor Potter seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

7. Ordinance No. 16-21 An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Amending Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Amending Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18” be read by title on second reading and a hearing held thereon.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance amends Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18 to add the purchasing of lighting and other equipment for the rescue squad ambulances.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled, “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Amending Capital Ordinances No. 17-14, No. 13-16 and No. 06-18” 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 adopt the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

E. ORDINANCES: INTRODUCTION

1. Ordinance No. 17-21 Appropriating $390,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund’s 2021 Water/Sewer Budget Appropriation, $185,000 from existing Water Capital Improvement Funds and $35,000 in current Water Capital Surplus for various Water/Sewer Capital Improvements ($610,000 Total)

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to fund various 2021 Water/Sewer Capital Improvements.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance Appropriating $390,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund’s 2021 Water/Sewer Budget Appropriation, $185,000 from existing Water Capital Improvement Funds and $35,000 in current Water Capital Surplus for various Water/Sewer Capital Improvements ($610,000 Total)” 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 20th, of May, 2021, in person at 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 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.

Deputy Mayor Potter made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

2. Ordinance No. 18-21 Appropriating $310,000 from the Recreation/Open Space Trust Fund for Various 2021 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvements

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance appropriates $310,000 from the Recreation and Open Space Trust Fund for various 2021 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvements.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance Appropriating $310,000 from the Recreation/Open Space Trust Fund for Various 2021 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvements” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Councilman Loveys asked if the Rosenfarb Basketball Court improvement should be placed under general improvements. Manager Mountain confirmed that he was correct, although it did not affect the accounting. Councilman Loveys agreed.

Councilman Tkacs asked about if all the electrical boxes were being moved out of the Brundage Park Playhouse into a standalone box. Manager Mountain informed him that the boxes fitted for the lighting would be moved, whether it was the entire feed for the Playhouse, he was not sure, he would get back to him. Councilwoman Carey made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

3. Ordinance No. 19-21 Amending Ordinance No. 08-19 and to provide and determine the range of compensation in accordance with the Teamsters’ Collective Bargaining Agreement effective January 1, 2021

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance establishes and sets forth the salaries for the Township employees with the Teamster’s Collective Bargaining.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “Amending Ordinance No. 08-19 and to provide and determine the range of compensation in accordance with the Teamsters’ Collective Bargaining Agreement effective January 1, 2021” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Manager Mountain explained that this ordinance establishes and sets forth the salaries for the Township employees listed herein that will be in effect retroactive to January 1, 2021

Deputy Mayor Potter made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

4. Ordinance No. 20-21 Amending Capital Ordinances #16-14, #21-16, and #10-18

Manager Mountain explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to amend several Township Ordinances to include the authorization of improvements to lighting at Brundage Park.

BE IT RESOLVED, that an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance of the Township of Randolph Amending Capital Ordinances #16-14, #21-16 and #10-18” be introduced, read by title by the Township Clerk and passed on first reading.

Councilman Tkacs made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilman Nisivoccia seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

J. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Seeing and hearing none, the public session was closed.

K. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Councilwoman Carey reported that the Cannabis Subcommittee had two meetings since the last council meeting. On Wednesday, April 28, the subcommittee held their first public forum; many people spoke, very few speakers were from Randolph, most were advocates from across the state. During the forum, the subcommittee provided a brief overview of the cannabis legislation and the implications it would have on Randolph and collected questions for the council to address. She explained that the initial intention of the forum was to get feedback from the people within the community; she was disappointed that there weren’t many local participants and commented that it was interesting.

She reported that the subcommittee would be meeting with the Board of Health to get their advice on how to proceed. The subcommittee has two more meetings on its agenda and will hold a second public forum on Wednesday, June 9. After the forum, the subcommittee will provide a report of their findings to the council.

Mayor Forstenhausler commented that the subcommittee had spent a lot of time on the process. He encouraged residents of Randolph to participate in the Wednesday, June 9 public forum to allow the subcommittee to obtain local input. He stated that the township wanted to know how residents felt before the council makes a decision.

Councilman Loveys reported that he attended a webinar hosted by the Morris County Prosecutors office on the subject of Police Use of Force. The webinar provided a general overview of the State Attorney General’s Excellence in Policing Policy initiative. The information was shared with all 21 counties in New Jersey.

Councilman Nisivoccia reported that he attended ribbon cuttings for two new Randolph businesses; Hibiscus Grill and Silver Lake Physical Therapy. He commented that both businesses were welcome additions to the community. He shared that the Economic Development Committee (EDC) and the Randolph Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed the new businesses.

He attended a Municipal Alliance Committee (MAC) meeting and reported that several programs were scheduled. He explained that the MAC was in the process of submitting a supplemental funding application to the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Councilman Tkacs reported that he participated in the Police Use of Force webinar. He discussed the office’s 21-County, 21st Century initiative. He commented that the information and discussion was interesting.

He reported that he attended two ribbon cuttings in Randolph. He continued to attend Cannabis and DISC Work Group meetings. The Planning Board did not meet.

Deputy Mayor Potter acknowledged Mrs. Moran and Mrs. Corduan’s comments. She shared that she was one step removed from gun violence as well; she has family who graduated from Columbine High School. She appreciated their comments.

She shared that NJ 2-1-1 has received 150 requests by Randolph residents since January 1. She informed the public that anyone was able to dial 2-1-1 to receive confidential assistance in locating resources for housing, utilities, child care, and many more topics. She acknowledged that May is National Mental Health Awareness month and informed the public that 2-1-1 can connect residents to mental health resources.

She reported that she participated in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Police Use of Force webinar. She continues to attend weekly DISC meetings. She attended the ribbon cutting for Silver Lake Physical Therapy on Tuesday, May 4.

Mayor Forstenhausler thanked Mrs. Moran and Mrs. Corduan for their powerful comments. He informed them that the council would be seriously considering their request for the gun violence proclamation.

He reported that he received many positive comments regarding Clean Communities Day and the Community-Wide Garage Sale. He was pleased to hear that many residents were happy with the events.

He reported that the Ordinance Work Group held additional meetings and were continuing plans for a new committee to address diversity in Randolph.

He shared that the DISC continued to meet weekly; the committee expects the township-wide survey to be ready soon.

He attended the recent EDC meeting and commented that the committee has been doing a great job of working with business owners in Randolph. He shared that attended ribbon cuttings for Hibiscus Grill and Silver Lake Physical Therapy; both businesses are located on Sussex Turnpike. He welcomed the new businesses into Randolph and wished them much success.

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:

Zoning Regulations

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.

Deputy Mayor Potter made a motion to move into Executive Session at 5:55 p.m. Councilman Loveys seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

Deputy Mayor Potter made a motion to close Executive Session at 7:15 p.m. Councilwoman Carey seconded the motion and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech

M. ADJOURNMENT

Councilman Nisivoccia made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:15 pm. Councilman Tkacs seconded the motion, and the following roll call vote was taken:

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

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Councilwoman Veech