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right. Good afternoon. The meeting of the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners is called to order. In compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act of the State of New Jersey, adequate notice of this meeting of the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners was provided in the following manner. Published in the press of Atlantic City and mailed to the Hamilton Gazette and
has been posted on the bulletin boards of the county office building in Atlantic City, the Still Water Building in Northfield, and the county clerk's office in Maze Landing. Opening prayer. Lord, we pause to recognize the blessings that have led us here. Open
our eyes to the abundance around us and remind us that every good gift comes from you. May our gratitude inspire our actions. Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> All right. Please face the flag. I aliance to the flag of the United
States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. >> All right. At this time we will have the oath of office.
Commissioners, I'm in receipt of a letter from Mike Solomon, chairman of the Atlanta County Democratic Committee, dated August 21st, 2025 to Mr. Joseph Dorado, Atlanta County Clerk. Dear Clerk Dorado, I write pursuant to NJSA19.113-20
and NJSA 4041A-145.2 two to advise you that a special meeting of the members of the Atlantic County Democratic Committee from the first commissioner district was held on August 21st, 2025 for the purpose of selecting a successor to fill the remaining term
of the late commissioner Ernest Corsy. With the meeting being properly noticed and a quorum present, the members selected Reverend Collins A's Day senior to fill Commissioner Corsy seat for the remainder of the term. Enclosed here with, please find a certificate of acceptance and oath of allegiance for
Reverend Days. We anticipate he will be formally sworn in no later than the board of commissioners meeting on September 2nd, 2025. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Should you need anything further, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Mike Sullean.
Appointed Commissioner Collins Day Senior will be administered the oath of office by the Honorable Marty Small Senior, Atlantic City Mayor. Mr. Chair, before the swear and M say a couple words. >> Sure. >> All right. So, um to the board of
commissioners, as you know, in addition to serving here, Ernest Corsy was my chief of staff for the great city of Atlantic City. Of course he represented his district when it was Atlantic City and Pleasantville and now in the new district to the
fullest. I'm sure there was some doozies in here because he didn't always agree with everyone. That's an understatement. He didn't always agree with me, but his love for his seat and his city was unmatched. And you know, we're truly going to miss him. Feel like uh my right
hand was cut off, but um we couldn't find a better replacement than this man. my pastor Reverend Collins Gays um in Atlantic City and he will serve the board as well. And I also would like to say thank you for not folding under
political pressure because I know the pressure that was put on by the irrelevant guide on the radio and others about making this appointment. Thank you for doing the right thing for >> place your left hand on the Bible.
Raise your right hand and repeat after me your name. I, Collins Day, Senior >> I, Collins Day. Senior >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly affirm >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New
Jersey >> and the Constitution of State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the government established in the United States >> and the government established in the United States >> and in this state
>> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority ity of the people. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> I do further solemnly swear >> I do further solemnly affirm >> that I will faithfully and partially and justly >> I will faithfully and partially and and
justly >> perform all the duties of >> perform all the duties of >> the office of >> the office of >> county commissioner >> county commissioner >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations. You can score. Thank
you. Yeah, >> there's two comies. Take your seat. >> Your seat. >> Congratulations. >> Talking to the mic. >> Oh, thank you. Let me just say thank you to the mayor. Thank you to uh citizens of district 1.
I'm grateful for the support. I look forward to representing district one and fulfilling uh the unexpired term. A great friend of ours, brother, someone who was committed to county and I look forward to serving in the same capacity
as he doing my best to represent District 1. Thank you, Mike. Thank you all of you for coming and supporting us. Thank you. And you're free to leave as well. That that's what most people do when we're done. Reverend Dings when they're when they're done their part of the
presentation, they leave our meeting. >> Hey, how you know? >> There you go. >> Thank you, Mayor Small. You earned it. Can we say >> I can't drink a cup of coffee?
I'll be there Thursday. All right, T. Roll call, please. >> Here. >> Oh, sorry. Chairman Commissioner Burns is unable to attend today. >> Days >> I was going to welcome new commissioner days, but
>> Gat here. Kern here. Parker >> present. >> Grizzly >> here. >> Rafio >> here. >> D >> here. Yeah. So when I'm no longer chairman, it's going to be really become confusing, but uh but welcome again. Congratulations again. >> Thank you so much. All
right. Commissioners have had an opportunity to review the minutes from August 3, excuse me, August 12th, 2025. I will entertain a motion to adopt the August 12th minutes as presented. >> Second move and seconded. Roll call. >> Martino, >> yes. >> Days,
>> abstain. >> Gado, >> yes. >> Kern, >> yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzly, >> yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. Now, I'm really tempted to jump in every time. It's really confusing. The board of commissioners will continue to utilize a consent agenda format for
sections of the agenda that the commissioners do not feel need additional discussion from the board and they're not contested. This consent agenda format allows our meetings to run more efficiently and productively so that we can spend additional time during the meeting discussing other important issues that are not as routine. If any commissioner wishes for additional
discussion on any resolution or like a resolution to be pulled from the consent format to be individually addressed for any reason, please advise and we will do so. For the public, prior to the roll call on any resolution or a group of resolutions, you will continue to have an opportunity to comment if you wish to
do so. Anyone attending in person who would like to speak regarding an agenda item or public comment, please come to the podium, speak into the microphone, state your name and the town where you reside. You'll be provided up to three minutes to speak. If you're attending virtually and like to speak, please raise your
hands during the agenda item or public comment. At the end, I will call your name and a request to unmute will be sent. Please state your name in the town you reside. You'll be provided up to three minutes to speak. >> Resolution 501. >> Appointment of Michael Mickey Pa to the
Atlantic County Utilities Authority for a term to expire on May 1st, 2030. >> Move. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any comments from the public? Is Mickey in attendance? Yes. All right.
Mickey Wiktor will come up to the podium. >> Go back to >> Good evening everybody. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. >> Would you like to say a few words to the board? >> I'm looking forward to serve on board.
Uh it's my uncle was on the ACA board for many years. Both of my cousins. Uh something that I hold near and dear serving on the Hamilton Town Council as a deputy mayor for eight years. because I handled wastewater and water in Hamilton for those eight years. Um so I think I could offer something to the
county and look forward to uh moving forward. >> Great. Any commissioner comments? >> You know, >> thank you chairman. Yeah. Um for Mickey, I think uh for those of you that don't know him, I've had the opportunity to work with Mickey quite a few years out
in the western end. Mickey's experience um years ago environmental work he did with Aquitex. He had a lot of experience with the NJD regulatory processes, Pineelands. Uh his roles as deputy mayor, uh as he said earlier, serving on the water and sewer committees. Uh he's
got he brings in-depth knowledge and understanding so he could hit the ground running. So I think he's a great I I uh I appreciate the u our executive point giving Mickey the chance to serve. I think he'll do a great job at the ACA. >> Any other commissioner comments?
Commissioner Rizley, >> I just like to say simply that very simply that we're very lucky to have him on board the ACOA. Very lucky. Thank you for your serving. >> Thank you. >> Any additional commissioner comments?
Any comments from the public? >> All right, please call the role. >> Yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gat, >> yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzly, >> yes. >> Ruff, yes. >> D, >> yes. We can congratulations and thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. >> Get the work. >> Now get to work. >> Ordinance number four, >> an ordinance revising speed limits along two road, second road, county route 559 in the town of Hamilton in the township
of Hamilton. Final reading. Second. Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments? Since this is final reading, are there any comments from the public? Please call the RO. >> Ratino, yes. >> Daz, >> yes.
>> Gat, yes. Kern, >> yes. Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. >> D, >> yes. Resolution number 473. >> Subawward grant acceptance from Well-being and Equity Innovations, funded by the New Jersey office of the Attorney General for a community-based
violence interruption program amount not to exceed $115,000. >> Sorry. Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments? Any comments from the public? Please call the role. >> Ratino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gate, >> yes.
>> Kerna, >> yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzly, >> yes. >> Rafio, >> yes. >> D, >> yes. Resolution 474 >> grant application and acceptance from the New Jersey Department of State Divisions of Elections for the 2025 primary and general election day grant
program amount not to exceed $143,580.34 >> move second. >> Move then seconded. Any commissioner comments comments from the public please call the role. >> Yes. >> Days have >> gate. >> Yes. >> Kern, yes.
>> Parker, >> yes. Grizzly. >> Yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. >> D, >> yes. Resolution number 475, >> amending resolution number 288, adopted on June 6, 2023, a grant from the United States Department of Justice through the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office
for the Liberty Mid-Atlantic Highintensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force Grant. Net increase $1,2151. >> Second. >> We have been seconded. Any commissioner comments? Any comments from the public? Please call the role.
>> Martino, >> yes. >> Daz abstain. >> Yes. >> Karna, >> yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzly, >> yes. >> Ruff, >> yes. >> D, >> yes. Resolution number 476. >> Grant application and acceptance from the New Jersey Department of Law and
Public Safety, Office of the Attorney General, Division Violence Intervention and Victim Assistance for the Federal Fiscar 24, Stop Violence Against Women Act. Funded amount $74,466. County incind match $25,413.
>> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments? >> Any comments from the public? >> Please call the role. >> Martino, >> yes. >> Daz abstain. >> Gate, >> yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzly, >> yes. >> Ruff, >> yes. >> D,
>> yes. Resolution number 477, >> grant application and acceptance from the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services for an Alcohol Education Rehabilitation and Enforcement Fund Grant. Funded amount $718,591.
County cash match $99,352. >> Move. Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments? >> Any comments from the public? Please call the role. >> Bratino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. Gat, >> yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, yes. Grizzly,
>> yes. >> Ruffio, yes. D, >> yes. >> Resolution number 478, >> grant application and acceptance from the New Jersey State Library for the expanding digital literacy program amount not to exceed $25,000. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner
comments? Any comments from the public? >> Please call the role. >> Martino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gat, yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruff, yes. days. >> Yes. Resolution number 479,
>> grant application and acceptance from New Jersey Transit for the Senior Citizens and Disabled Residents Transportation Assistance Program amount not to exceed 1,323,936. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments? Any comments from the public?
And please call the role. >> Ratino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gat, yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. D, >> yes. Moving on to competitive contracts. >> If I may, there was a issue that was just brought to my attention regarding
resolution on grant 43. Commissioner Dav one additional uh resolution that you wish to abstain from. Uh based on our earlier discussion based on that chairman if uh we could have a motion to
revisit resolution 473 so that vote would be amended. >> Okay. You need someone to make a motion to >> go back. >> Consider a resolution. >> Second move and seconded. Should the clerk read the resolution once again or
>> those in favor? >> All those in favor? >> Any opposed? Okay. Yeah. So, we're going to go back to resolution 470. Anybody? >> We're just making a motion at this point, Ken, to go back to revisit it. Correct. >> Correct. >> Will there be there'll be a roll call roll call vote on 473 again? Right.
Okay. >> So, we've moved and seconded to go back to revisit 473. >> Miss Terry, you'll read the resolution one more time. >> So, >> you already all in favor consider secondary. >> Read the title. >> Yes.
>> Okay. Subawward grant acceptance from well-being and equity innovations funded by the New Jersey office of the attorney general for a community-based violence interruption program amount not to exceed $115,000. >> Moved and seconded.
>> Any commissioner comment? Any public comment? >> All right, please call the role. >> Yes. >> Dazain, >> yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzly, >> yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. states. >> Yes. >> Thank you, sir.
>> Okay, we're good. All right, moving on to competitive contracts. If any commissioners would like to discuss or remove any competitive contract from the consent agenda, please indicate so now. Any comments from the public? I'll entertain a motion to combine and
adopt resolutions 480 through 481. Second. >> Moved and seconded. Please call the role. Martino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gate, >> yes. >> Kern, yes. Parker, yes. Grizzly, >> yes. Ruffio, >> yes. Dave, >> yes. Moving on to bid contracts. If any
commissioners would like to discuss or remove any bid contracts from the consent agenda, please indicate so. Now, hearing none, are there any comments from the public on these items? >> Hey, I'll just say sorry,
>> Mr. Chairman. Creed Pogue Estel Manor just saying thank you for resolution 485. >> Thank you for your thank you. >> I'll entertain a motion to combine and adopt resolutions 482 through 486. >> Second. >> Move and seconded. Please call the role.
>> Martino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gat, >> yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Rley, >> yes. >> Ruff, yes. >> D, >> yes. Change orders. Resolution number 48. Change order number one and final, a contract with South State Incorporated for the replacement of 8th Street Bridge
BV02 over Penny Pot Stream in the borrow of Folsam. Net decrease $52,46162. >> Apologize. That was resolution 487. Sorry. >> Second. >> We have been seconded. Any commissioner comments? >> Mr. Chair, I think it's important that
we let um Commissioner Days know that um Ernest held the line on change orders. I've always had something to say about them. Unless they're a net decrease, then they're okay. >> I was already >> Yeah, you better be right.
>> I subbed in the last meeting. I played Corsy. Now it's your turn. >> So, everybody can be mad at you now. So, are any additional commissioner comments? Any comments from the public? Hey, please call the role. >> Ratino,
>> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gat, >> yes. >> Kern, >> yes. Yes. Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruffw, >> yes. Base, >> yes. Resolution number 488, >> lease agreement with the city of Summers Point for library facilities, amount not to exceed $35,000. >> Moved. Second.
>> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments? Any comments from the public? >> Please call the role. >> Yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gat, yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, yes. Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruffio, D, >> yes. Miscellaneous items. If any
commissioner would like to discuss or remove any miscellaneous items from the consent agenda, excuse me, please indicate so now and are there any comments from the public? I'll entertain a motion to combine and adopt resolutions 489 through 499.
Moved. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Please call the role. >> Rino, >> yes. >> Days, >> yes. >> Gat, >> yes. Just want to make note of some of the interlocal agreements uh with the city of Atlantic City since that's typically a hot topic. Just want to
point that out. >> Thank you. >> Karn, >> yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Rley, >> yes. >> Ruff, >> yes. >> D. >> Yes. Chapter 159, resolution number 500. >> Insert into the 2025 budget the sum of $32,615.50
50 cent from the state of New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development under the caption of IV-D law 2425. >> Move. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any commissioner comments. Any comments from the public.
Okay. Please call the RO. >> Bertino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Gate, yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Rafu, yes. >> D, >> yes. Moving on to appointments. If any commissioners would like to discuss or remove any appointments from the consent
agenda, please indicate so now. Are there any comments from the public? >> Okay, so we did uh appointment 501. So I'll entertain a motion to combine and adopt the resolutions 502 through 504. >> Second move and seconded. Please call the role.
>> Bertino, >> yes. >> Daz, >> yes. >> Scatter, yes. >> Kern, yes. >> Parker, yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. states. >> Yes. Roadway solicitations. If any commissioners would like to discuss or remove any roadway solicitations from the consent agenda, please indicate so
now. Right. Any comments from the public? I'll entertain a motion to combine and adopt resolutions 505 through 506. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Please call the role. >> Certino. >> Yes. >> D.
>> Yes. >> Yes. >> Karn. Yes. >> Parker, >> yes. >> Wrizley. >> Yes. >> Ruff. >> Yes. >> Stay. >> Yes. All right. Makes us to commissioner sponsored resolutions. Resolution number 507. >> Resolution in support of Senate Bill
3718 and Assembly Bill 3323 requiring pay for teachers extracurricular activities to be included in compensation for teachers pension and annuity fund purposes. Sponsor Andrew W. Parker III. Move.
Second. Thank you. You're welcome. >> Second. >> Any commissioner comments, >> Mr. Chair? Commissioner Parker >> as and uh the chair of education and schools committee for the county. Um,
and I thank you for being a member of that committee things or or matters that are dealing with education in the county. And so we as we've opened that up here, we have uh legislation that's being proposed to
support teachers being paid uh appropriately for that pay that they receive for morning program for after school program and you also as a educator will understand for uh summer school for all
of those things. Now at the currently that money is not pensionable. So we receive that money but it's not pensionable. With this bill and this legislation that will then become pensionable and added to a teacher's pension. So we talked about this
legislation over in our subcommittee education and schools committee and uh drafted together this uh resolution. So, I stand here today or sit here uh to bring this resolution to the public
and to this board for a final vote. Um I was informed that it has already gone. I know we had some delays with the process because we've had some, you know, there's a lot that's been going on around here uh and we all know and so we moved it from one agenda to another. um
it's already been voted on and what we're waiting on now with this legislation is for it to be signed by the governor. So in that time that we've been waiting, it's been signed and signed and passed by the assembly and by the legislature and now we just await the signature of the governor. So this,
you know, we had hoped to come out a little bit early, but it it still hasn't uh it still hasn't u received the governor's signature. So that's all that I wanted to share. If anyone else from education and schools committee has anything else that they'd
like to add to that, that's pretty much what the commissioner comments. Any comments from the public? This is Mr. P. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh Creed Pog
Est Manor. Um since there's a long list of recipients included um with the resolution, even though it's been um adopted, it may be of interest uh for the public record. Uh the assembly version was adopted last June of 2024.
Um one support I believe everyone supported except for Assemblyman Teresi um who did not vote on it. And then in June 30th of 2025, um the Senate recipients supported with
the exceptions of uh Senator Paulina who did not vote on it and Senator Tesa who voted no. Um but otherwise um I thank Commissioner Parker for uh his work on it. Um I'm an education family, too. Um and certainly know what's involved
there. Um so happy for that. And um as probably the solicitor would tell you uh when bills get go through the legislature then there's this long period of time where everyone's got to look at the legal part in order to make sure that we're not creating an issue when it gets signed. So that's why that
always takes that's part of being in Jersey being part. >> Thank you sir. >> Thank you. >> Any other comments from the public? >> Hey everybody. I just wanted to add one quick comment. Uh while Senator Palestina was not available to vote.
>> Oh, I'm sorry. Joe Bur, chief of staff, second legislative district, uh I just wanted to clarify that although uh Senator Palina didn't vote on that bill that day, he was not present, unfortunately, he actually introduced the bill in the Senate. So, I just want to make sure that clearly he would have
supported it had he had not had an emergency that day. So, thank you very much. >> Appreciate it. >> Thank you for coming up. And I sure hope he would have voted on his own legislation. Okay, that would be a little strange if not. >> Yeah. So, I appreciate it very much. >> I just remember seeing his name on that. So, thank you.
>> Hearing any other comments from the public? Right. Please call the role. >> Yes. >> Daz? >> Yes. >> Gat? >> Yes. >> Karn, yes. >> Parker, yes. >> Grizzley, >> yes. >> Ruffio, >> yes. >> D, >> yes. All right, commissioners, we've received copies of written
communications and petitions. Are there any commissioner comments on either of these? >> I'm going to try, Mr. Chair, to even >> admittedly. So, I just received this when I came into the office, so I didn't really read it in depth, but I think
it's important to let the public know that this is taking place. We have been going over and discussing Atlantic City Electric and the rate changes and the electric bills going up. And we even tried to get them to come to our meeting. They graciously declined and we
ended up uh they they did come to a sub correct and so I just wanted to put this out there. We did receive this that is uh please take further notice take notice. I'm going to try and summarize this because the information is really all over the place on here.
So they're going to do a public hearing. There's going to be one that's going to be um virtual and that one is going to be September 8th, 2025 at 4:30. It's going to be on teams. Uh there's a code
here, meeting ID 28391237871. If anybody would like that, I know that was long. I'll leave it at, you know, with our clerk and you can get that uh information on how to join. Also, you could join via telephone. Call 443-5290267
if you want to go to the virtual hearing. Um, there's also going to be an in-person hearing. Let's see if I can find where they put that. Uh, let's see. On September 18th, Thursday, September 18th, beginning at
11:00 a.m. And it's going to be regarding what is called the BGS proposal. So, just to try to summarize uh very poorly summarize what what this is, there's a program that's in place for those who cannot afford their
electric bill. The rates that all of us pay, we all share in that cost. All right? All the rateayers, the rates that we're going to be charged for that will be going up. Now, Atlantic City Electric, they promise they're not going to make a profit off of this. That's part of the letter, but that's what the
public hearing is is for. I just thought it was important that, you know, we know that this is taking place because we've been talking a lot about rate changes and rates going up. So, not only are the rates going up, but this portion of the rates of our rate is going up as well.
So, to be expected, I guess they're going to be voting on it after the public hearing. And we just received this in our office. >> Thank you, commissioner. Are there any other commissioners wish to share written communications or petitions? All right. Any reports of special
committees of the board? None. Mr. Mer, >> once again, I will I want to say that I did attend over at the um National Aerospace Research Park. Uh I attended guess what date that was. I can't think
what date that was. It's in here somewhere about a week or so ago. And there was a signing of anou with uh the NARTP, our National Aerospace Research Park, the ACA, which is the Atlantic County Economic Alliance, and also Rowan
University signed an MOU to work MOA to work together memorandum of what's the word? Understanding what? MOU of agreement. One of the you know what I'm saying? So they signed a a a a
deal to work together um in terms of economic development, in terms of technology, in terms of all the things that we have continually talked about on this board and in diversifying our economy and that's a major project that's going to be helping to diversify our economy. So having a major
university come on board um is going to be pretty powerful for us and impactful. It was a it was a great occasion where those three entities came together to to share in our vision of the county with the executive's vision of the county and the first fine art county and to work
together on those uh in that endeavor. So it was a great great occasion. I spoke to the president of Rowan University uh directly and he was extremely excited to be a part of the works that we have going on here at Lon. So wanted to make the board aware that that
took place. So, it's obviously very important and part of the the goal and the mission that we've been working towards for several years now. >> Um, any other reports of special committees of the board? >> Mr. Chair, >> sorry, you have >> I wasn't going to do it, but now I I
think I should. I did have a conversation. I did submit an AI infrastructure plan for the county, uh, a framework, a rough framework a few weeks ago. Um, since then I spoke with our administrator who shared some information with us from what our
internal departments have been working on in terms of the AI infrastructure plan on the administrative level in terms of our employees. Um, the plan that uh the plan that he shared with me as well as the plan that put that I that
I put together which is a little bit more overarching. we did speak about at with the NARTP, Rowan University, and the ACA. I did have a meeting with them. Uh, and they are all very excited to join us in that endeavor and help the county formulate this AI infrastructure
plan. I spoke to the executive today as uh earlier as this morning about this. He seems to be pretty excited about it as well. So it seems as though this new memor memorandum of understanding uh that we have is going to first be put to
use and utilized by working on this AI infrastructure plan for the county. And I will be speaking again at 10:30 tomorrow with the executive. Whatever comes from that conversation, I will be I'll make sure to uh get that to
the chair and to the vice chair so that you guys can disseminate that to the rest of the board on what we what comes out of that meeting. >> No, I'm done. I promise. >> Thank you. Is there anything else? Commissioner, >> no more. >> Commissioner Gat, I think you
>> Yeah, thank you. um Lake Lenipe uh dam uh working committee met um last Monday, I think it was. Um and I I'm not sure if anybody has visited Hamilton Township lately, but the dam looks absolutely
beautiful. Um great. >> It's it's uh really operating very well. uh it kind of got ready to operate uh just in time when Hurricane Aaron was um sending a lot of uh water our way. Um it's really really wonderful the work
they've done uh is is incredible. Um kudos to our our planning and zoning departments and um our engineering department. Uh all of the gang that worked on it uh in our in our house and then our vendors. uh they've done really done a great job uh working with the
township of Hamilton as well. Um and there was a discussion on that meeting um that there's some planning in the works with Congressman Van Drew's office since he was a huge proponent in getting us the uh some of funding the federal funding for the dam project um for an
official opening date. Um so it right now it's looking like Monday the 22nd of September. I think it's at one o'clockish. Um I don't know that this has all been finalized yet. I'm not even sure if I'm supposed to be saying this yet, but um but I just wanted to put
that on everybody's radar. Uh because it's been a very very very long road. There's several things that I wanted to make sure to accomplish before leaving office. Balone Avenue was one. >> The dam was one. The lighthouse was one.
I'm not sure that that'll get done, but um >> these are some very very long long-term projects and this one from a public safety perspective, operation perspective, um functionality perspective was uh really really
important and uh it took all hands on deck to get it done and I think everybody should just be commended for for working together. Um same thing with uh our our state representatives as well. um Palestina Guardian and Swift um certainly also helping us to get
necessary uh resources, funding, getting things through state offices uh for permitting and and things like that. Continuing to keep um things pushing forward. So, uh just wanted to highlight that really great work. Take a ride out there if you have a chance and uh save
that date in case uh it does become official. >> And I know a lot of the Hamilton Township officials as well were thrilled and sharing the the news and pictures. Thank you. >> And I commend uh Commissioner Gatau for your commitment to those projects. You didn't let up. You kept at them. The
state knew you. >> You know, picked up your calls when you made them and made sure you know you got to where you are now. The great commitment on your part. >> Did something you wanted to share as well? >> Oh, no. I was just going to also mention about the special committees. I have a couple that do not meet during the
summer. So the first one that I have coming up is this Thursday, which is the uh mental health advisory board. So I will be uh reporting on that the next meeting. >> Thank you. >> All right. Um moving on. Any unfinished business?
>> Mr. Chair, I just want to make sure that Commissioner Rizley, you did receive John Dadio's response to the tax assessor. Okay. >> Any other unfinished business? Any new business? All right, hearing none, we'll move on
to public comment. Anyone attending in person that would like to speak now with public comment, please come to the podium, speak into the microphone, state your name, and the town you reside. If you're attending virtually and would like to make a public comment, please raise your hand. I'll call your name and
a request to unmute will be sent. Please state your name of the town you reside. You'll be provided up to three minutes to speak. >> Good afternoon. My name is Alice Carcelli. I reside in Brigintine and I'm here today to speak as a group leader of Indivisible Empathy United. We are a
nonpartisan grassroots organization. Uh we currently organize in Atlantic City, Pleasantville, Egg Harbor Township, and the surrounding communities. And we are committed to justice, inclusion, and dignity for all people who call the United States home. I am here today in support of a proposed resolution
supporting immigrant rights and requiring transparency from federal immigration enforcement agents in Atlantic County. a necessary and urgent action to uphold the rights and safety of our neighbors. Atlantic County is a vibrant, diverse community made stronger by the contributions of immigrants.
Contributions that enrich our schools, our workforce, our small businesses, and our civic life. But too many families are living in fear. Fear of being targeted, detained, or separated without due process. Let's be clear, constitutional protections are not conditional. The rights to due process,
equal protection, and freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures are guaranteed to all people in this country, regardless of immigration status. Unfortunately, we've seen ICE agents operating in communities across this country without identification, without transparency, and without regard
for the fear and confusion this causes. These actions erode trust, not just between immigrants and law enforcement, but between our government and the people it's meant to serve. This resolution is not radical. It's reasonable. It doesn't interfere with law enforcement. It protects our
residents from overreach. It affirms Atlantic County's compliance with the New Jersey Immigrant Trust Directive, which was designed to ensure local police are not turned into immigration agents. It says simply, "If ICE comes into our community, they should show who they are. Our our county should not
cooperate with warrantless detentions. We should publicly report enforcement activity, and we should support the families caught in the chaos." Finally, this resolution takes a stand against the expansion of the deportation machine in New Jersey. We oppose the proposed detention facility at Joint Base Meguire
Dixs Lakehurst. We believe our state's resources should be used to build community, not cages. Commissioners, adopting this resolution sends a message. Atlantic County stands for justice, justice, transparency, and human dignity. That we will not be silent while fear is used as a weapon.
That we are better than complicity. We urge you to adopt this resolution not just for the immigrants of Atlantic County, but for the soul of our county itself. Members of Indivisible will come to the microphone to describe provisions of our proposed resolution in greater detail.
Good afternoon. My name is Susan Marowitz. I live in Brigantine, New Jersey. Um, so our resolution includes that all ICE agents operating in Atlantic County must clearly identify themselves by name, badge number, and
agency affiliation and must not obscure their faces with masks or coverings in non-tactical public interactions. Also, it includes that Atlantic County agencies and employees shall not cooperate with ICE detainer requests,
interviews, or enforcement operations unless presented with a valid judicial warrant. >> Kathleen Rashiel Brigantine. Our resolution includes the county shall track and publicly report any ICE
operations conducted in public spaces or in collaboration with county departments in accordance with state and federal law. This resolution also includes the county shall support community-based organizations that provide legal
housing, legal housing and mental health resources for families affected by immigration enforcement. Diane Faraday Brigantine. Um, our resolution also includes that the county affirms its full compliance with the New
Jersey immigrant trust directive and commits to protecting the confidentiality, safety, and rights of all im immigrant residents regardless of their status. Uh, the county formally opposes the
construction or operation of any new immigration detention facilities within the state of New Jersey, including the proposed site at Joint Base Maguire Dixs Lakehurst. The board calls on the state and federal
leaders to reject policies that expand the detention and deportation apparatus. Thank you. >> Hi everyone. My name is Dana Ramage. I live in Maze Landing um right here in Hamilton Township. Um, I'm here to
represent all of Atlantic County, uh, 4H youth development programming today, though. Um, I was recently hired back in June of this year. We had a really great, uh, fair just a few weeks ago, August 8th and 9th. Um, but we basically wanted to come here today to sort of
reintroduce ourselves and tell you a little bit about what we've been up to um, with our programming here in Atlantic County. Um, we have today with us one of our 4 youth ambassadors. This is Joel. Uh behind him is our lead 4 agent. This is Kendron Diet. And then of
course we have Erin, Joel's mom in the back. She's one of our one of our tried and true food volunteers. Um with volunteers are the backbone of our organization. So we couldn't do what we do without folks like her. Um so without taking up too much of your time, I just
wanted to give you kind of a little rundown of some of the upcoming events we have going on. Uh in September we have an ongoing program every third Tuesday um through December. We're going to do a Lego club um which our staff will be teaching social emotional
learning through collaborative Lego building um that's going to be hosted at the Oceanside 2 family support center in Atlantic City. Um then we have other ongoing programs um kind of collaboratively with uh the Stockton
student interns and the noise art garage. Um, we're going to be teaching youth how to use the Garage Band app and using Apple iPads uh to create their own music. And there's also going to be an art program using the Apple iPads as
well. Uh, we have a favorite food show on October 4th that's open to our enrolled 4 members. Um, it's a really neat idea where participants get to showcase their favorite food. um they'll show the recipe to present in front of a
judge and it's a really fun and interesting way to get the kids to practice their public speaking skills. >> Uh we have October 18th we have the annual trunk or treat and fall festival. This event kind of serves as our open house. So we invite our community
members in to meet all of our different club leaders um and to meet the 4 members themselves. Uh this will be held at the fairgrounds right there in Maze Landing on Route 50. Uh and then moving on into November on the 6th and 7th, we
have a wilderness wellness program. Um I'm kind of excited about this one. We're going to be having it at um Estelle Manor Park. Uh it's going to be open to youth uh all across Atlanta County, not just enrolled 4 members um
in grades six through 12. and we're going to be focusing on um mental well-being and physical well-being out in nature. So, they're going to be doing things like hiking and yoga and things like that. And before I run out of time, I'll summarize it there and just say
thank you so much for all that you do for 4 in Atlantic County. We really truly appreciate it. >> Dana, thank you for all that. Is there a list of those events that you can share with us? If not today, at some point if you can, you know, um and just for my personal benefit, I are you still
collecting electronics for recycling? >> We do. Yes. >> Saturday. >> Okay. Every third Saturday >> grounds. Yep. >> I appreciate that. Just really quickly for the for the public's sake is where would they go to get this list? I know you're going to give it to us, but where
would the public >> I can post it on our on our Facebook and our social media sites. Uh we do have on the we have a a Google calendar also linked to the Ruckers Cooperative Extension um the 4 page >> keep that updated as well
>> for my own benefit could adults attend the wilderness wellness program >> I would love >> as a former >> I tell you what if we can get you volunteering >> well she'll have a little extra time after December actually I believe
>> yes I heard Thank you. >> If you'd like to. >> Uh, my name is Joel. I'm the youth ambassador and I just want to say thank you guys so much for what you do for you guys always help us out. I know I met
you at the talent show, but I just wanted to say thank you guys so much for what you do. >> Are you here after your first day of school today? >> Yeah, I am. Yeah. >> Good for you. All right. Way to go. >> Joel, what year are you at Cedar Creek? >> Uh, I'm a junior. Junior. Okay. I have two. My boys are a senior and sophomore.
So, you're right. Right in between. >> What are their names? >> Uh, >> he doesn't want to tell. And Nick, >> I'm not sure how that will go over. So, I know what their last names are.
>> And also, I'm Erin Sharp. I happen to be uh Galloway Township, Egg Harbor City Borderline of Atlantic County educator and 23-year 4 leader. So, uh, a little bit of everything. And I would like to also thank you for your continued
support. I see you out at events both for education and for the 4 program. Uh, continuing to support nonprofit organizations is really important. Getting our youth involved and helping to teach them this governmental process is something that 4 does. And I appreciate that you are there to support
it. Thank you. >> Good afternoon everyone. Uh, my name is Kendra Dy from Pleasville. Um, I wanted to say like everyone else, thank you guys so much. Uh, Mr. Rizley, I see you every year. So, I appreciate I be I recognize so many of you guys. So, thank you for supporting us for all these
years. Um, that's it. That's all I wanted to do. Thank you. >> Thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> Say a couple. >> Sure. Commissioner Wrizley, Mr. Miller, for Commissioner. >> Just a moment. I just wanted to say thank you to 4,
many many, many programs they run. They probably run close to 40 programs, all volunteer, uh, all volunteer, all all good programs, programs for kids to take advantage of. Uh, many of them are
either no cost or very very low cost and it's just a wonderful organization and um, I'm so happy that we support it. We continue to support it and we continue to talk it up as a a great opportunity for our kids in the county here. Thank
you. >> Mike Merino, Egg Harbor Township. >> Hey, Mike. >> Some guys, people here I know from my uh >> everywhere >> past American Legion riders commitment. Uh I want to thank you so much. Uh, I've
rode bikes for 49 years and I got to tell you from the Blackhorse Pike to West Jersey Avenue on English Creek used to be teeth rattling. Really appreciate the job that the county did getting that paid. So, that
being said, I have a home and an office at 3025 English Creek Avenue, which is just past the two big uh computer businesses. And um
three times since last August, the cars that come up English Creek, past shop, right, past those driveways, there's uh markings in the street and there's signs to move over into the left
lane. Three times I've had the whole front of our property, signs, mailbox, flower ripped out. Always sometime between two and five in the morning.
>> I was wanted to see if there was anything the county could do to put a guard rail up where that third that right lane ends. I don't know what the process would be.
>> Mr. Jar can ask engineering to probably go out. Look, but he'll explain to you what guide does. I think that's important. That's more important than Doug. You there? >> Yeah, I'm here.
>> Yeah. So um the issue with guil is it has to be uh for warranting obstructions. So basically it has to be for an unsafe condition on the side of the road. So basically the concern is if
a motorist hits that object they would be could be injured. So, you only put up guil when um there's that type of situation because actually guide rail itself is considered roadside hazard. It's just
you have to make sure that the guy rail is less of a hazard than the object you're trying to uh keep people from hitting. So, in this situation, guil would not be appropriate. Uh but we can look at other um
things to uh try to make sure that the people do uh move over. >> There's also uh about maybe 9 ft off the the blue a fire hydrant right there.
Half they missed the fire hydrant, missed the trees and hit everything else. And that's at a loss and >> we make sure we discuss it in roads and bridges as well. Right.
>> Look at that. If I can, Mike, >> I can. >> Sure. >> We're going to have our end date, Mike. We're going to have our engineering look at that. There are different things they do today with signage. There could be a visual. There could be solar some signage out there. Uh we'll talk to our
staff and stuff and get back to you with something so you know what we're looking into. I appreciate that. And then also on October 19th of this year, 1 to 5:00 pm at the American Legion Post 352, we have our fall ride for the vets. And
I really appreciate those that come out every year and support our veterans. Thank you. >> Thanks, Mike. >> Thanks, Mike. >> So, Jerry, someone will be in touch with Mr. Merlin before. Okay. Sure. Hi, Joe Bur, chief of staff, second
legislative district. Uh, I just wanted to remind everybody we're approaching our favorite time of year, which is anchor time. Um, so for those of you who aren't aware, this we're getting into the time frame now for the New Jersey property tax, the anchor rebate program. Uh, for the last two weeks or so,
Treasury was supposed to have been sending uh confirmation letters to tax payers. Some have gotten those letters, some haven't. Um they're not doesn't appear to be requiring a PIN this year, but there is a confirmation number. Um I
encourage you to make your your people your residents aware. If anybody's got any questions, please direct them to our office. The application deadline itself is October 31st of this year. Um but the goal is that we can address these issues prior to them coming up. Uh a lot of
people have had questions. The office has started to receive some calls. So, as always, if you guys encounter anybody who's got these questions, uh 609-6778266 is the office number. Uh anybody who's 65 and older should have already completed or and received their PAS one
book, which was senior free state New Jersey anchor all together. Um so, if you have anybody with existing questions with those programs, please send them my way again. Um, but I just wanted to make sure that that was on everybody's radar because I know during the fall you guys talk to me probably a lot more than you want to uh when we're dealing with these
anchor things. So, I just wanted to flag that with everybody. >> We love talking to you, Joe. >> Yeah. >> Who doesn't love talking to you? >> Mr. Chair, if I may. >> Sure. Got it. >> I mean, Joe, bar none, you are the most helpful resource in Atlantic County when it
comes to the anchor questions. And every single person that we send your way, you return their call. you give them dedicated time >> um and you get their issue resolved which is the most important thing and I can't tell you how much I appreciate that from a constituent service perspective and just want to say thank
you for that in advance this year >> happy to do it that's why we're here so if anybody's got any questions please send them my way that's all I wanted to plug >> appreciate that >> is there anyone online that's any public comment all right at this time I So, I'll
entertain a motion to close public comment. >> Second move and second it. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? >> Are there any comments? Commissioner comments for the good of the order. >> Mr. Chair, just want to welcome our our new colleague here, uh, Commissioner
Days. A pleasure to have you here as as I told you and and I knew it would happen probably. Uh, I got a little teareyed when you were >> getting sworn in and uh and the mayor was making his comments. um >> um it's hard having having uh somebody
somebody else here in the seat, but as I as I shared with you, I I know uh Ernest would not have uh thought of anybody else to turn the keys over to and he and he didn't take that thought process lightly. So, uh >> I I know you're you're going to do a great job uh so much in his seat and uh
uh just happy to have you here. Uh I know you'll represent that district well. uh whether it's for a short time or a long time, we'll know soon. But uh I'm sure no matter what, you'll you'll do a great job. And I think I can speak for all of us to say we're all here to help you in any way um that we can to
get you acclimated or information or you know, anything like that. But want to wish you congratulations. >> Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. >> Anything else for the good of the order? Commissioner Parker. >> Mr. Chair, I'll keep it short because Commissioner Gat said most of what I
would have said anyway. I want to congratulate you, welcome you and um I've already extended out, you know, an invitation to sit down and, you know, give me a call. We'll sit down and talk about, you know, there were some things that Ernest and I were kind of working
on behind the scenes. You know, we we did a lot of that. you know, if you know Ernie, you know, that's kind of how he rolls, you know, and um so I know there were some things that he would he would love for you to know and um that he was working on to complete some of the some
of the things that he had started. So, we can get together anytime that you call. I gave you my card, you have my phone number, we can meet at uh Beat the Daily Grind Cafe. Selfless plug, you know, it's one of my favorite new spots. And uh so if you haven't been, it's over in Lag City across from Stockton. It is
it really is a great place to go. We can meet over there, have some coffee, have some, you know, have something to eat and >> let's do it. Buy it too. I'm sure you're buying it. But I mean, listen, you know, >> no robbery and fair exchange.
>> But congratulations and welcome on board. I look forward to >> Thank you so much. >> Yeah. Um, anything else for the good of the order? Before I entertain a motion to adjurnn, Commissioner Wrizley brought to my attention that that Terry
>> Gass is in the back of the hall. Did she >> Did Terry want >> to say something? >> No. Okay. Commissioner originally put you on the spot. I didn't even >> Hi, Terry. Hey, Terry.
>> Uh, no. So, I knew that our Terry Prrenter gas, Atlantic County Board of Taxation. I knew that our resolution regarding our shared services agreement with the municipalities was up today and we certainly wanted to just be here uh to see that hopefully that it was going to be supported through the end because
it is for our aerial imaging contract with Eagle View to give each municipality uh and every department within each municipality the ability to see each and every property in Atlantic County through an aerial imaging program. So, thank you very much. I appreciate your
hard work. Thank you for explaining that. So appreciate it. Thank you so much for that. >> Um and again, Commissioner Davis, welcome. Um I look forward to to working with you and uh doing great things for all of Atlantic County. So welcome aboard.
>> Thank you so much. >> Entertain a motion to adjurnn. >> My favorite. So move. >> Second. Moved and seconded. All in favor? I >> All right. Meetings adjourned.
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