Please stand for the >> flag and stand and justice for all. Adequate notice of this meeting was posted on the bulletin board in the municipal building on the township website filed with the township clerk in
transmitted to the Burnersville News, Courier News, tap into and patch.com on December 17, 2025. Any motion to enter close session will be made in accordance with the open public meetings act and will state the general nature of the matters to be discussed. Minutes of such
closed sessions will be made available to the public when the need for confidentiality no longer exists and the matters have been fully resolved. No new business shall be introduced after 10:30 p.m. Public comment will be accepted at all meetings. Each speaker shall be limited to 5 minutes. All meetings shall
adjourn no later than 11:30 p.m. Christie, roll call, please. >> Miss AC, >> here. >> Mr. Hodes, >> here. >> Mr. Tomkins, >> here. Mayor Dwarte McCarthy >> here >> and Mr. McN is excused this evening. >> Christy, any executive session?
>> None this evening. Mayor, >> that brings us to presentations. Christie, >> resolution 2026-191, recognition of National Agricultural Month. >> Okay, I'll read the resolution for you. Whereas March signifies a national
celebration of the importance of food and agriculture in the United States as it provides almost everything we eat and use each day. This month we recognize and celebrate the diversity and abundance provided by Bernard's Townships farms and its contribution to
our local community and families. And whereas there are over 50 farm assessed lots with over n0 acres in Bernard's Township. And whereas the agricultural community is a vital aspect of our town's quality of life, including
providing access to fresh, locally sourced food, preserving open space and enhancing our community. And whereas recognizing the month of March as agriculture month in Bernard's Township as an opportunity for all residents of Bernard, New Jersey to better appreciate
agricultur's role in providing safe, abundant, and affordable products. And whereas in order to promote and preserve agriculture as a viable economic activity within Bernard's Township and protect our town from overdevelopment, the township committee established the
agricultural advisory committee in 2005. And whereas the advisory committee was tasked and continues to help promote local agriculture, educate the agricultural community to meet further economic challenges and encourage communication and cooperation among
farmers and the public. Whereas agurism can help protect farmlands and Bernard's Township farmers by providing recreational and educational activities such as pick your own produce, hay rides and tours of working farms, offering farmers markets, and other onfarmm
activities. Now, therefore, be it resolved, the Burners Township Committee recognizes the month of March as National Agricultural Month in Burners Township and encourages residents to visit our local farms this month and all year around. Be it further resolved, the Burners Township Committee applauds the
work of our local farmers for their continued efforts to provide the food we eat, the economic diversity we appreciate, and the open space we rely on. and be it further resolved. The committee applauds the continued work of the agricultural advisory board for
supporting our farmers, protecting our open space, and for developing an interactive map of the commercial farms and seasonal newsletter to encourage residents and the broader community to visit and support our farms. So, that was a lot, but it shows our deep
appreciation. And at this time, I'm going to see if any of my colleagues would like to comment. Certainly, >> Committeeman Hodes. >> Thank you, Mayor. >> I was fascinated to find out that dating back to 1717, if not earlier. But in
1717 is when John Harrison purchased 3,000 acres and subdivided it into farms. Then back in the 1800 census, I found out the Birds Township had 218 recorded farms. Agriculture has been a pillar of
this community and perhaps over the years we become more of a residential community. I we would be remiss to lose sight of that pillar of agriculture, how it's been so important to this community and how it is so important to the entire community, not just ours, but a broader
community of this country, this state, and in fact the world. and I am glad to be here and honored to be here for this recognition. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. Committee >> Hodgees Jen
Committee woman AC Thank you for acknowledging this. Um as someone who was born and raised in Indiana, um grew across grew up my neighbors were um cornfields. Um, I very much appreciate all the agriculture um, in our township and all the work that
our farmers do. So, I don't continue going to coughing fit. I'll stop. But I just, um, am very grateful and thank you. Thank you, Jen. Deputy mayor. >> Um, thank you, mayor. As someone who grew up in farmland in upstate New York,
um, I've seen firsthand uh, how hard uh, farmers work, how important farmers are. um they're the backbone of this country and I uh I love the fact that we recognize them um and celebrate them and uh thank you very much.
>> Thank you. And I'll finish by saying so my grandfather was also a farmer and uh they would was called Cotto in the Dominican Republic and we would really cherish visits there. You had to take a jeep. Uh there was horseback riding and the only problem happened when our
grandfather passed away. there were 18 children to divide it among. So u the legacy is still there and we you know we think fondly of the many memories there but differently you know when you think about Burner Township you often think of it as a farming community yet many
people don't understand or recognize the breath and important part that they play in our history. Um, as an example, last September we recognized English Farm as the in founded in the 1730s as the longest continuously operating business
in Bernard's Township. And then if you look at the website which was referenced in the resolution, there is a map that highlights our farms. We have four retail farms, Crane, English Farm, Ripple Hill Farm, and Anderson Farm. And we have several operating farms that are close to the public including Harrison
Brook Farm, Pinson Farm, Double Nickel Farm, and Molo Farm. And then of course we have our historic Ross farm. So to that end, u you know, it's part of our heritage and we're really pleased to recognize annually agricultural heritage month. And at this point, I would like
to have a motion so that we can move forward on our resolution. >> So may I have a motion? I move that resolution 2026-0213 be approved and scheduled for >> No, that's not the right resolution, Deputy Mayor.
>> Pardon me. >> No, no, you just need to make >> So, thank you. May I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you. All in favor? >> I >> I >> All right. So at this time I'm very happy to invite Jim Molo of Moloto Farm who is a member of our agricultural
advisory committee to accept the resolution and make a few remarks. And Moloto Farm was founded in 1922. Correct. So you are 100 plus years old. Not you of course. >> Fantastic.
>> Um yes uh my name is Jim Alo. I'm the chairman this year of the agriculture advisory board. Um, and I'm thrilled uh to see this committee of the National Agricultural Month. Great step in acknowledging that agriculture isn't just an industry, it's
a way of life. Um, I want to say thank you to the farmers, producers, and all. I think that adopting this resolution is about more than just a date on the calendar. Honoring our roots um ra programs, family farms, agricultural
agriculture is what formed our town as stated. Hope this resolution encourages our community to support local farms and recognize the hard work that goes into every meal that is on our plates at dinner time. Um, by declaring March agricultural
month, our town is making a commitment, agricultural leaders of our agricultural landscapes and reinforces. >> Thank you, Jim. So, with that, why don't we come down? We can Thank you very much, Jim. Greatly
appreciate that you came. All right. All right, Christie. Item B, resolution 2026-192, recognizing March as Women's History Month. >> Thank you. and I will read that resolution. So whereas women's history
month is celebrated annually in March to recognize and honor the vital contributions of women throughout history and to highlight their achievements in all aspects of society. And whereas the 2026 theme give to gain emphasizes the power of service,
mentorship, and community engagement, recognizing that when women invest in others, they strengthen communities and create lasting meaningful impact. And whereas women throughout Bernard's Township have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, compassion, and dedication
through their involvement in nonprofit organizations, civic groups, and volunteer initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all residents. And whereas local women led and women supported nonprofit organizations played a critical role in addressing community
needs, fostering inclusion, supporting families, and empowering future generations. And whereas these organizations exemplify the spirit of give to gain by selflessly contributing their time, talent, and resources to
uplift others while building stronger, more connected communities. And whereas since 1881, the American Association of University Women, AAW, has been one of the nation's leading voices for promoting equity for women and girls
through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. And whereas the Somerset Hills, New Jersey branch of the AaW was organized March 12th, 1946 and met at the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church and now for many
years at the Bernards Township Library. And whereas the Somerset Hills, New Jersey branch of AAW has long supported equity for women and girls through its well-known and longstanding community used book sale, which has raised funds to provide grants to women pursuing
education at community college, university, and graduate levels, as well as to support women focused learning initiatives through local public libraries. Based on records maintained since 1968, the branch has raised more
than $800,000 to achieve these efforts and advance them. Whereas it is fitting and proper for the township committee to recognize and celebrate these contributions and to encourage continued support and engagement with local women led initiatives. Now therefore, be it
resolved by the Township Committee of the Township of Bernard's, County of Somerset, State of New Jersey, that March 2026 is hereby recognized as Women's History Month in Bernard's Township. And be it further resolved that the township committee proudly recognizes and honors the Somerset
Hills, New Jersey branch of the AaW for their longstanding, outstanding service to the community. And be it further resolved that the township committee encourages all residents to acknowledge the important role of women in our community and to support organizations
that embody the spirit of give to Kain. So with that I would like to invite my colleagues to comment. Uh Committeeman Hodgees. >> Thank you mayor. Given this year's theme of give to gain, it's hard to think of a finer example
than the Summer Hill Somerset Hills branch of the American Association of University Women. Their branch's focus is equity for women and girls through education, philanthropy, and advocacy through an educational fund to provide
grants to women to further education at the gradu at the graduate level. What a fine goal to have. Personally, a little less academically, I am blessed every day by the fine people around me who happen to be women.
From committee person O AC to our mayor to our township clerk to my wife and my two daughters, there's not a day that I don't grow and become a better person because of the insight and
support that I get from these people. So, I'm proud that I can be here to have such a resolution. >> Thank you, Committeeman Hajes. Appreciate it. Committee woman ac so supporting women is something that
has sort of been I guess also technically in my DNA. Um when I worked corporately, one of the free thing, one of the fun things I enjoyed was leading the women's erg and supporting women to achieve their potentials both
professionally and personally. Um coming forward this past March, um I always celebrate International Women's Day on March the 8th. Um so that is something we always look forward to. as well as um recently last year joined an
organization a women's organization called Impact 100 Garden State of which we announced that um we achieved 432 members which is allowing us to donate for $100,000 grants to very deserving
nonprofits benefiting um five nearby counties. So um in my free time it is a mission um and working with other women who are like-minded and missionoriented is a pleasure. So thinking about this particular organization I have
participated in this book sale um I can't tell you for how many years. Um and and my husband doesn't understand because we dump off so many books and then we buy so many books um that he's like I don't understand. So, um, we do
the best of recycling and it's something that it is a family tradition and it has been for well over 15 years. So, um, very grateful selfishly for the wonderful things you do in our community and our family loves the book sales. So,
thank you. >> Thank you, Jen. And I get the same reaction really. Uh, Deputy Mayor. >> Uh, thank you, mayor. Um, I uh I love uh I I love this recognition. Um I grew up
with four sisters. Um uh I have a wife and a daughter. And in my time growing up, my sisters uh they were uh my their expectations were, you know, they could either be a teacher or a secretary or a nurse. And um I've seen I've seen the
world evolve since then. And um it's not that women weren't doing remarkable things uh 200 years ago. Uh it's just they weren't receiving the recognition they were. So through um uh you know
recognition like this um hopefully it opens people's minds. It brings to the forefront the unbelievable work and contribution uh that women have uh have contributed not just to um our town, our
country, but to to the world. Um and uh like like Brett, I'm a better uh person every day because of my wife and my daughter. Um and um I'm very happy we're supporting this. Thank you. >> Thank you. So like committeewoman AC, I
first became familiar with AEW through the annual book sale. Uh my mother-in-law, the late Genevieve McCarthy, was a very active member and it very proud and happy to have found a community that of of women that placed value in education and giving back. And
one of the joys of of this resolution was that I got to visit with Terry Pasarella and Bonnie Gould, two of your members. um Terry who's here tonight whom both knew my mother-in-law and my father-in-law. So, thank you for the sharing your memories. Um so, I want to
talk a little bit about Bonnie Gould who's in California and listening. She said that she would stream our meeting. So, a little bit about Bonnie's story. Bonnie graduated from UCLA engineering and was the only woman in her program
throughout her time there. um AAW at that time gave her a small scholarship, but her father felt because they had the means to pay that she shouldn't have the scholarship that it should go to someone who needed it. They gave her the scholarship nonetheless. She tried to
turn it down and ultimately she accepted it and she said at that time that she had a long-term goal that when she finished working she would join AUW to give back. And sure enough, she did. She said that when she retired, she joined
AUW and has been a member for 26 years and has done just that, giving back with all of you. Women have made progress toward equality. However, there is a lot of work to do for young women and girls today who are struggling to find their
voice in a world that often still underestimates their potential. Thank you, AEW, for all that you do to make a positive difference for women in our community. So, at this time, may I have a motion? >> All moved.
>> Second. >> Um, all in favor? >> I. >> Wonderful. So, it's my pleasure to invite Robin Marian from AEW Somerset Hills to say a few words. >> I'm Robin Marian of Madisonville Road
and uh I represent uh Somerset Hill here tonight. And on behalf of all of our branch members, I thank the township committee for honoring our commitment to
their endeavor towards meaningful and fulfilling. Bernard's Township is a very special place. Unlike other suburban communities
demonstrates a neighborly feeling. Maybe it's but uh it's perfectly embodied by the give to gain scene. Somerset Hills Au also hopes to embody
this inclusive neighborly attitude, welcoming both men and women into our organization. Our annual book sale contributes to the education and entertainment
of all of our community members, making most used books for about a dollar a piece. Programming presented at our monthly meetings,
open to anyone interested, addresses topics ranging from health to current affairs, purely nonpartisan uh to travel, which is my in addition to our educational emphasis,
we in conjunction with our ational organization strive for equal pay for women which we still haven't quite achieved. Um, we fight human trafficking of women
and girls, which believe it or not is still present not only in the US, but in New Jersey, especially for major football events and things like that. Uh, they take these girls into the
hotel. Um and we leave. Um in addition, we have a national fund which may be used to finance lawsuits brought by women seeking legal remedies
or discrimination. Again, thank you so much for choosing our organization for this honor. from among so many worthwhile local group.
This time we'd love to present the resolution and anyone who's here who are members can join us for some photos. Oh, let's do it now. I didn't stand a chance. >> Okay. >> All right. Thank you again. And you are
all welcome to stay or you can leave as the meeting will go on for a while. You're you're welcome to adjourn if you'd like. And thank you again for joining us. >> Right. Christie, any public work session needed? >> None this evening. Mayor
>> Christie, any correspondence? >> None this evening. >> That brings us to public comment. During this public comment period, comments are welcomed on any agenda item. However, if an ordinance is listed for its own public hearing on the agenda, please hold your comments for that particular public hearing. The public comment
portion of the agenda is not structured as a question and answer session yet offers an opportunity to share your thoughts with the township committee. The committee may or may not address these comments during the meeting. However, all comments are considered. To address this body, the speaker must come forward to the microphone and state his
or her name and address for the record. To ensure an orderly and respectful meeting, speakers should avoid personal attacks, inflammatory language, or derogatory remarks toward any individual or group. Each speaker is limited to five minutes. The clerk will keep time.
Please promptly lead yield the floor when time is called and return to your seat. Your cooperation in adherence to these rules of order will ensure an orderly meeting. Thank you. I open public comment.
Seeing none, I close public comment. Next, we will invite staff comments, township committee comments, including board and liaison reports. Mr. Monica, would you like to start? >> Uh, thank you, Mayor. Um, earlier this evening, we held a swearing in ceremony for our newest officers. So, I just want
to welcome officer Bruno and Mardle to Burner Stashia. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Mayor. >> Um Chrissy, >> none this evening. Thank you, >> Mr. Bardo. >> Nothing to report tonight, Mayor. >> Thank you. So, we'll go to committeeman Hodes. >> Thank you, Mayor. Just a couple of
things. As you know, the municipal matters has been holding a um mind matters four-part documentary at the local Burns Township Library. and to um Wednesday, April 8th, will be there next and it's called Race to Be Human. I've
gone to the ones that they've shown thus far and I think they're well worth the time. Um it's open to all members of the community ages 11 and up and registration information can be found on the public health web page. There also tomorrow is a mind and mingle program
which is targeted for students in grades 7 through 12 where there will be therapy dogs at the Burns Township Library. So come on by and pet a dog and feel your anxiety decrease by the second
parks and recreation. The 15th annual art show is is going on right now through April 19th at the Environmental Education Center. And if you've ever wanted to try a sport but didn't want to invest in the equipment or perhaps you're planning a party for with family
and friends and you're looking for some activities, well, you're in luck. If you go to the parks and recreation web page, they have a sports equipment rentals and they have kit rentals for parties and picnics. So, as we're getting into a warmer season, I just wanted to remind
everybody that these items can be rented out for a nominal fee and give yourself something to do. And lastly, I just wanted to remind folks that uh we are coming up on the Pleasant Valley pool opening up on May 23rd and early
membership payment rates are in effect until March 31st. So, sign up soon. Thank you, Mayor. >> Hard to believe it's going to be swimming season soon, but that's great news. Committeeman Hodes, uh, Committee Acy, >> you um, so some updates I wanted to
acknowledge. On March the 11th, our health department gathered feedback um, as a part of the surveys and such to help guide um, the needs of our community and all of the contracted towns. And so the mayor, myself, and committeeman Hajes um attended and it
was called a voice for health group where many within the community um came together and and shared their insights. So I wanted to acknowledge Don Marling, our health officer, and her leadership to gather this type of feedback to help then in turn create programs that
support the needs that are identified. Um, I also wanted to um share gratitude for the warm reception that many of us in the township committee received for the interfaith ifar at the Islamic Society of Basking Ridge on March the 12th. Um, last night um I was also with
the mayor. It was the kickoff for the Somerset County um 250th celebration at the greenhouse. It was such a wonderful event to be around the leaders of our farmhouse. um you know his historic
society you know the historical groups within our community um the farmhouse as well as um Ross Farm um many elected officials um Colleen Maher ourset county administrator kicked it off um Sparky
was there from the Somerset Patriots. So um all I can tell you is that this summer is going to be amazing with all the history that is around us. So, um, just, you know, please engage and, uh, visit Somerset is going to be a great
resource that is keeping track of this and, you know, the mayor and all of the volunteers within our community that are pulling all this together. It's just, it's going to be amazing. So, can't wait. Um, some important things that are coming up, just to flag, uh, tomorrow
actually, is a virtual lunch and learn. Sleep starts in the kitchen, thanks to our health department. It's connecting nutrition and lifestyle habits that set you up for sleep success. You'll hear from our own dietician about how different foods and beverages affect your sleep. This is free. Please
register online um for this tomorrow from 12 to 1. Another really exciting thing that I just saw post is called hitting the road healthy eating on the go. This is an event that's going to take place on April the 8th. Um, and
this is um, Alyssa uh, England and Ellen Petricio of Nourish and Thrive Nutrition Center. They're doing a nutritional program and cooking demonstration. Their food is fabulous and they provide really awesome um, recipes. So, I highly
suggest if you can make it, it's April the 8th, 12:30 to 2 in. So, that is on the health department's website. So, please um, take advantage of that. I also want to call out thanks to the um health the animal control is many of us
have seen that um you're aware the highly pathogenic aven influenza bird flu um I know a few weeks back um my family was disturbed to see a very sick um uh bird and um we watched it numerous
times and sought help from um the raptor trust and others. So I just wanted to share and also on the board of health we were talking that they got calls that children were petting some of these sick birds. So I just wanted just to call out and just some important reminders that
um you know these wild birds um always always always avoid direct contact um especially if they're sick um don't touch them. If there are deceased birds, um they do need to be disposed of um in a safe manner using PPE, personal protective equipment. Um and and
removing the dead birds is important um because it prevents the the bird flu from spreading and talking with our um on the board of health we have a vet and she had said now the next fear is um the scavenger animals and and getting those
um dick the um sick dead birds and then you know sharing that illness. So, I don't mean to sound gross or whatever, but it's just something that if there is um a sick and and dead bird to ensure that to help pick up. Also, um it's
important the um NJTP is also collecting information on those subbirds and such. So, please um there is on the health department's website there's a link for all this information. Um the good news is is that bird flu risk to humans is
low, but it is something that you know if you see a sick or dead bird online, especially in groups of five, um taking pictures and um using the wild bird reporting disease reporting form is important to keep everyone safe. The
last thing I wanted to share is um I was so grateful to the library. They hosted a repair cafe on March the 14th. It was like I don't know the most fun. library event that I've ever participated in. Um, everybody brought in something
different. Um, I saw so many people leave with working lamps. Um, somebody with a working um, vacuum cleaner. Um, my husband brought a um, a satchel that a leather satchel that the class had broken and they fixed that. Like one of
the only reasons why we didn't fix it is like we didn't know who to take a fixer to like and so all of the fixers are many of them are residents and these are just amazing generous people that have a knack to fix things and it's the ultimate in recycling. So I didn't know
what to do. I brought some things that just needed sewing because I thought well that's that's pretty safe. Um but there were people that brought um knives that needed sharpening. So, I just I highly suggest they're going to do this two more times. The library, it'll be on there and I'll I'll share about it when
it's coming, but it's you can bring up to two items and you come and um again, you just get to meet the best people. Um uh one of the women that helped me is as a resident and they just do this for fun to to help and it's the ultimate recycling. So, instead of throwing
something away, you get to continue to use it. So, it's fun. Um and I'm very grateful for it. >> Yeah, it's a great report. You know, one thing I did see that there were some trails closed because of the aven bird flu. So, I'm glad that you brought up the issue around don't pick them up and to do do that carefully. So, thank you
for that. U deputy mayor, >> I have nothing to report. >> Very good. Moving on. I do have things to report. So, u so I'm going to start with some good news. Uh, the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute announced on Thursday, March 19th, the Mayor's
Wellness Campaign, Healthy Town winners for 2025. The winners are the cities and towns that go above and beyond to improve health and wellness in their communities through innovative programs in areas such as exercise, healthy eating, and mental health education and
awareness. There were 45 healthy town winners, and for the third year in a row, Bernard's Township is among them. This year's efforts place a strong emphasis on accessibility with initiatives such as sensory friendly hour before our mayor's fall festival
for guests with cognitive disabilities. The mayor's wellness campaign is an important lever toward making our community a great place to live and thrive. And the programs and services that were considered are offered through our health department, library, and parks and recreation. And they are
available to residents at all life stages and abilities. So, special thanks to everyone involved in designing and offering these healthy town initiatives. Um, as Jen mentioned, we were myself and committee Hajes joined the interfaith ifar celebrating the close of Ramadan.
And it was wonderful to see representatives from different houses of worship um and public office all speaking to the themes of unity, charity, and strengthening bonds with bonds with family and the wider community. A couple of quick announcements. The golf advisory
committee met last week. We are literally teeing up for the opening of the Klay Russo golf course on April 1st and memberships are still available for renewal or new memberships. And I play there regularly. The golf course is really a jewel in our community. It's
located on the campus of the VA hospital. It's a nine-hole course. It's a walking course, so you get your steps in. And the course also has a solo rider adaptive golf car golf car to accommodate golfers with disabilities. It's a great value. So, please consider
joining. Uh differently, you'll see in the consent agenda resolution 20260. It's an application for fiscal year 2027 community project funding through Representative Tom Kaine Jr.'s office. We are seeking 1.8 8 million in federal
funding for the construction of the Pleasant Valley Park culvert and paths project. This is an important project and we hope that this if we get the uh grant that it will help support the cost of our capital projects. We appreciate the hard work of Tom Timkco, the head of
engineering to fulfill the grant submission, as well as letters of support we received from Somerset County Administrator Colleen Maher, Assemblyman Andrew McCertie and Vincent Carney, and Senator John Bramnik. Um, as Jen mentioned, yesterday was the kickoff.
And what I will add is that of of Rev 250 for Somerset County, how often Berners Township was mentioned in the narrative from the historian, whether it was the march by Roshambo through our township, the encampment at English Farm. We are figured considerably in the
history of the Revolutionary War. So, we look forward to starting to amplify some of those things beginning at Charter Day. And last month, um, the last thing I'll share is that next Monday, aligned to our township committee's recognition of developmental disability awareness
month, a casework staff from Representative Tom Kim Jr.'s staff will offer a presentation on navigating coverage issues with key programs, including among others, supplemental security income, and social security
disability insurance. This is a program generally of value to parents and caregivers of adult children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will also videotape the presentation for those who are unable to attend. And let's moving
forward. Christy, any fire and rescue appointments? >> None this evening. Mayor >> Christie, any unfinished business? >> None this evening. >> Chrissy, new business item A. 2026 municipal budget and golf utility presentation by Shawn McCarthy, CFO.
>> So Shawn McCarthy is our CFO and we are really pleased he's here this evening to provide a presentation and it will it be on the uh screens. >> Yep. >> Up on the screen. >> Excellent. All right. Well, thank you for doing this. There's a lot of hard work that goes into being here tonight.
It's uh this process starts in the fall. It includes um many presentations and meetings with department heads with Pat with uh Sean and others and then we get involved earlier in the year. So we really appreciate this presentation and we look forward to hearing it. And then
just for the audience uh there will be a hearing on April 28th about the budget, but you can listen and hear and see, you know, what questions you might have. And Sean is always available to answer questions between now and then. So Mr. McCarthy. Okay. Thank you, mayor. Um, so
as the mayor said, we do have our 2026 budget prepared for introduction tonight. Um, we'll get our presentation up on the screen. Um, I'll just note before we start that, um, this year the township is eligible again for self-examination of the budget. Um, so
in addition to the budget introduction resolutions um, on the agenda, there's also a resolution authorizing that self-exam um, on the agenda. Um, I'll note that um, again this year the budget reflects a continued commitment by the governing body to
maintain high service levels while managing some pretty significant external cost pressures. And we'll we'll get into those cost pressures in a little more detail. Um, goal with this budget is to balance taxation with service delivery expectations, infrastructure maintenance expectations by doing everything we can to mitigate
an increasingly challenging cost environment. Um, with that said, uh, this budget and and importantly the municipal tax levy are stable. Um, and tonight I'll walk through the overall budget appropriations, uh, take a look at our our capital needs for this year,
take a look at the primary budget pressures, um, and finally talk a little bit about assessed value and the tax impact. Our total uh, 2026 budget uh, comes to just under $50 million. Uh the amount to be raised by taxation in support of the
budget comes to $24,315,594 for an increase of 3.44% over 2025. Um and what this represents for homeowners is the township committee's commitment to continued tax stability. Um again, this year the tax levy increase will not exceed the
year-over-year percentage increase from last year. Uh so last year we saw a levy increase of 3.44%. this this year's levy will not exceed that number. Um the anticipated municipal services tax rate uh coming in at.246
per $100 of assessed value. Uh this rate is down 2.12% from last year's rate of.253 and reflects our growth in ratables this year helping to again mitigate the tax levby increase and ultimately the impact on taxpayers. Um this is now the fifth
consecutive year of significantly reduced tax rate. Um and in fact for 2025, Bernard's Township had the lowest municipal tax rate uh for municipal services in all of Somerset County. Um so certainly the intent of this budget
is to maintain that position. Um also note uh that this budget will fund a total capital program of $7.7 million for 2026. budget itself complies with both the levy and appropriation caps as well as complies with the township's use of fund
balance policy. Um so here we have a a breakdown of the 2026 budget into the major budget categories uh comparing that to the same for last year. Um we do take a look at this summary every year and and it's important for for a few reasons. Um, one, you know, if you take a look at the
overall uh total budget, it'll appear as though it's up only 48%. Um, however, uh, that number does include a a comparison of grants received at the end of 2025 in comparison to grants as of
today in 2026. Um, so not a real fair comparison there. As grants come in throughout the course of the year, the budget gets amended, those grants get added to the budget. So, for that reason, in in this comparison, we pull that number out along with the capital and reserve for uncollected taxes number
um to show our actual year-over-year operating cost growth. And for 2026, uh that increase for the structural budget itself is 4.33%. Um nearly all of the drivers that are
increasing that budget are uh statutory or other operating expenses that are outside of our our local control. Um we we'll go into detail on a few of them, but but just notably um employee health benefit costs are increasing 20% this
year. Uh we have a statutory increase to the library tax levy of 8.77% or $263,000. Um, and those are in addition to just uh in general overall inflationary operating cost increases in nearly every
one of our department operating budgets. Taking a look um without question, you know, the the um single biggest cost driver in this year's budget is employee healthcare. Um, so we are looking this year at a a one-year increase of nearly $550,000
or 22% over 2025. Um, you know, this has unfortunately been a a um point of pretty significant budget pain for us over the last few years. Um, it does appear to be getting worse at this point and and really um no indication of of
any relief coming from the state program, unfortunately. Um so what what we're looking at here is the history of our employee benefits budget going back to 2021 um in blue. Um we've seen doubledigit plan premium
increases coming from the state health benefits plan starting in 2023. Um those increases are now um resulting in what would have been a 35.4% increase in 2026. Uh so obviously, you
know, very significant premium increases coming from the plan. The township has taken proactive steps to try to mitigate the impact of these increases. Um while those steps have been successful, uh the tools we have available to us are limited because we are members of that
state health benefits plan. Um even with some pretty aggressive action we took in 2024 um and again in 26 in regard to um changing plan design to the extent that we can moving to higher and higherable uh deductible base plans for employees
funded deductibles etc. Um we're seeing health care costs really begin to outpace our ability to control them and that's what you're seeing in that chart there. So um essentially the the blue lines in the graph are our actual cost for um healthcare in each one of those
years budgets um with the plan design changes that we made. The uh section in orange is showing um what our benefit costs would have looked like had we had we done nothing and and not made any of those changes. Um so it is working but
um we're still seeing um what's beginning to be um almost unmanageable increases on our on our healthcare costs. Um, like I said, you know, it's it's what we've been able to do has been effective. And in fact, um, you know, based on our estimates, they've saved
over $2 million in potential premiums in just three years. Um, but again, we're starting to run out of tools in the toolbox to address that. Our uh, base plan currently for employees is now the highest deductible plan on offer from the state. Um so unless we see some real
willingness from the state to um make some significant you know plan design changes we we'll have some pretty limited options to continue to troll the benefits costs from our end. Um so talking about that 20% increase for this year uh for perspective that that
increase of $550,000 which um is half of what it could have been you know had we had we had to absorb the 35% increase. Um the $550,000 makes up more than half of the total increase for all of this budget's
operating lines. Um, so if I go back to this chart here, you'll see the operating budget increase. So this is every operating line in the budget is increasing 6% just over just over a million dollars. More than half of that increase is one budget line which is
employment. Kind of reiterate how much of an impact this is going. Um, taking a look then at our breakdown of the major budget categories. Um, so this is the budget appropriations by
percentage in this year's budget. Um, obviously as is usually the case, we have public safety and capital making up the largest portions of the budget as these are our uh two are core service areas. Um while most of the budget categories are remaining substantially
similar last year in regard to their percentage of the total budget, uh you'll see insurance, which includes that employee benefit line we just talked about, um does continue to represent a pretty significant um share of the budget and is now a growing share
of the budget. So for comparison purposes, at 7.8% 8%. It's nearly at the total general government category at 7.9%. That general budget category contains salary and wage and operating budgets for essentially every department here in
town hall with the exception of police and public work. So, um, again, really can't emphasize enough how much the employee benefits are continuing to impact budget. Um, last thing on this slide I'll note is that the capital budget does remain at
around 14%. Uh, this being again one of the primary goals for this year's budget. We're going to continue to fund our five-year capital plan. Um, adequately maintain township's infrastructure and equipment. Taking a look at assessed value. Um we're again seeing a pretty significant
increase um in assessments this year with our total assessed value nearing 10 billion. Um that represents an increase of 6.12% over 2025. As I mentioned previously, this is now the fifth consecutive consecutive year
of assessed value increases. Uh with that trend starting back in 2022 when we saw an increase of 6.45% 45% followed by 8.01% in 23 8.56%
in 24 10.26 in 25 and now 6.12 in 26. So um it is possible we're now starting to see the real estate market cool a bit or maybe stabilize. But um in any event the you know healthy readable growth like this um certainly does contribute to a
stable tax rate. Um, in our case, it's contributed to a a reduction in that tax rate over the course of the last five or so years. Um, key point here being that, you know, as long as we can maintain a commitment to a a controlled and partic.
So essentially when you see this kind of tax growth, it helps to offset increases in the levy by spreading that cost across a larger tax base. See that kind of working here. If we take a look at the average assessed home
in Bernard Township for 2026. So, um, we can see here average home value in Bernards at $931,000 up about $60,000 from 871 in 2025. And then we can calculate what the
average or what the tax bill on that average would be for 2026 for municipal services. And that comes in at $229344. Um, which is up $87.86 over last year. just about $22 per
quarter. Um, so this is kind of a a good example of of what we talked about as far as how increased assessments kind of impact the tax rate and then ultimately impact the tax bill. So this year, you know, that average assessment is
increasing to 931,000 uh which is about 6.9%. The average tax bill then for municipal services is increasing to,29344 which is an increase of 3.9. So for this year we saw an increase in assessed
value of 6.9% but an increase to that average assessed homes municipal services tax bill of 3.9%. So what you're seeing there is the the effect of a stable budget, stable tax levy applied to increased overall assessments kind of
mitigating much of what could have been the maximum impact if you're just looking at assessed values. Um in this case, it's mitigating about 60% of that potential increase. Um with that said, it's it is important to note here that this is just the average assessed value.
Not all homes are going to increase um exactly like this. Um you know, our assessments are done based on the actual real estate market activity. So you'll have homes in uh one neighbor rising or or decreasing more so than other
neighborhoods depending on size of home, etc. So just an important caveat that this is an example based on just the average assessment and it may not apply across the board to assessment of every home in town. And then taking a look at the capital budget. So our total capital budget or
total capital program for this year uh coming in at just under 7.7 million. Um that total number will increase just about $164,000 over 2025. Um that'll keep us on track with our long-term capital plan. Um, as
is typically the case and what you're seeing in that pie chart on the right um is that the capital budget again is focused on maintenance um of uh maintenance of existing infrastructure with only 5% of that 370,000
uh being funded being earmarked items. And then taking a look here at the actual funding for the budget. Um again for this year we're continuing um an entirely pay as you go funded capital budget. The bulk of that budget being
funded out of out of this budget out of this tax levy. Um and a small portion that you see there in orange being funded from other sources of some reserve funds. So, um, we have of the 7.7 million about 185,000 coming from
capital reserves to fund a portion of wired EMS radio upgrades and roughly 550,000 in reserve funds being applied to turf replacement project at Mountain Park. Um, both of those projects have been in the capital plan for a number of
years now, particularly that turf replacement. Um and for that project, we've been setting aside uh funds every year out of revenues that are generated from the turf field itself. Um you know, anticipating that the turf has a useful lifetime of 10 years and that it would
have to be replaced around this time. So there is kind of a long-term funding plan being put into effect in in this year. And lastly, we are introducing our golf utility budget. Um, I'll mention as I always do that, the golf course is
operated as a self-liquidating utility, meaning its operating costs are fully covered by user revenue, not by taxation. And you'll see here the total golf utility budget will come in at 642,2 and that is all I have on budget introduction. Um, as the mayor
mentioned, we are scheduled for public hearing and adoption on Tuesday, April 28th. Um, we have all of the budget data, this presentation, state budget form, all posted to the township's website, and I'll leave any specific questions on the budget.
>> Don, thank you very much. It was a really good comprehensive presentation, and I didn't appreciate the turf field that the sinking funds were coming from revenue. Yeah. >> So, that Thank you for that. Um, just as my colleagues might think about a question or two they might have, if we take a step back, how would you describe
our financial position? >> Um, I was I would say overall, you know, obviously that those budget pressures that we talked about aren't aren't going away. Um, you know, we'll be dealing with that through the course of this year's budget. Um, I'm sure it'll be an issue in next year's budget, you know,
in addition to any new challenge that that'll come along. But um o you know overall I can say the township is still in very strong financial position. Um over the last four years we've increased the township's fund balance by about $4 million. Um so that's allowed us then to
anticipate more of that fund balance for use in the budget as revenue to offset some of those budget challenges that we're seeing in appropriations. Um, you know, for the past 10 plus years, we've delivered a tax levy that's been very
steady, very predictable. Um, at the same time, we've increased our capital budget to keep up with our infrastructure needs. Um, that capital budget is fully funded every year out of the budget. We're not issuing any new debt. Um, so I would I would say
certainly um, township does remain in in strong financial position. >> Appreciate that. And we had shared, you know, we've been meeting, I've met with Assemblyman Mccertie staff as well as Congressman Kaine's staff and they're saying that it's the same drum beat
across the state that it's not sustainable the increases in the state health benefits plan and um you know something needs to be done. So I know that you and Pat and others worked u literally magic to make it happen and I thought that slide was really
illustrative of what could have been had that you not done all the work that you did. So that's greatly appreciated. Um so any comments or thoughts from my colleagues? >> Um just going back excuse me back to the health insurance costs. Um it it seems
like the ultimate day of reckoning is not far off. Um Is there anything out there? I know I know through our conversations in the past um with both of you um you guys have flipped a lot of rocks, but is
there anything out there any glimmers of hope um uh that there's going to be some out on this thing because it seems like this train is coming and we're 100% at other people's mercy um at this point.
Yeah, I think I mean I think the good news is we are certainly not alone. Um, every other municipality who's part of the state health benefits plan is looking at the same issue. Um, so there are um lots of folks out there looking at possible solutions, possible
alternatives. Um, you know, Pat can tell you for the past four years, every year we've shopped ourselves out there for any possible alternative to state health benefits. Um, you know, the problem that we're having is that everyone else is doing the same thing, right? So, at this
point, whether it's uh private insurers or the health insurance funds, they now have pick of the litter for groups with best possible claims experience. So, if you don't have pristine claims, um, really nobody wants to talk to you at this point. Um but again like I said I
think there are some new um potential opportunities that may be coming online in the next year or two whether it's new joint insurance funds or other options that um you know all these towns are going to be looking to to do so.
>> There any possibility that we can um join forces with other towns? Um obviously, you know, they're not going to be taking on a lesser quality partner, but is there some sort of safety in numbers if we pair up with
four or five towns and um you know, each risk is is unique, but it helps disperse that. Will they will they consider that as a possibility? Will you consider that as a possibility? >> Yeah, I mean I think that would be um a good potential solution. I mean that's
that that is happening out there now. There are uh joint health insurance funds that are doing exactly that. They're they're getting a number of towns together pooling that risk a bigger a bigger pool of employees for for better potential rates. Um you know for our our regular general liability
insurance we're we're part of a joint insurance fund and that's served us extremely well over the years. So, um, if there were an opportunity like that that would that would uh up uh certainly something >> we're going to be getting our claims experience from Horizon once again. So,
this will be year five and we'll be shopping around um once again. What the outcome will be is dependent on the state possibly getting >> uh you know the some solution to the to the issue because it's just not sustainable. and and there are other
joint insurance funds that we we can pursue also. >> Oh, thank you Pat. Jen, >> I just wanted to um thank and acknowledge Pat and Sean and all of your department heads to build you build a
bottom up budget to come up with this. And um I learn every year. Um one of the big observations I've seen over the last what this is my fifth one is that you are open to new ideas and always resourceful and looking for
and so I think that demonstrates this year um such a large double-digit increase is so difficult to to manage. We don't have debt, right? And so this pay as you go just it puts that much more pressure on and that's where you
know my commitment is working with Mr. Tomkins um and and the mayor around economic development and trying to get more commercial ratables and to decrease the pressure that has fallen onto our residents as the taxpayers. Right? So we
need to we need to change that balance a little bit and so that is one of the things it's not going to be done overnight. Um but you know we want to be thoughtful in that approach and and we'll look forward to talking about that in the future. Um so that and then also looking for creative uh revenue streams
and that's other ways. So I know it's a municipality but we can't generate revenue but we will try to find ways to do so. So again trying thank you for your openness to to be um that creative. And the last is is perhaps you know working with my colleagues on the
committee and and leveraging and and perhaps approaching some of our elected officials and such uh especially at the state level and to really ensure if it's resolutions and conversations around to try to have meaningful conversations of what is the solution because
unfortunately this is not a company we want to be a part of. We're all unhappy. So what what potential solutions instead of saying it's a state's problem what what can can we have meaningful conversations and that's something that that we could speak about >> a whole bunch of ideas
>> to that end the conference of mayors has a legislative subcommittee that I was invited to join so I want to understand what they're doing in this space because that opportunity you know will put different it's a consistent drum beat everyone's facing the same thing and I
want to underscore the hard work both of you and others did to get us to this place where it's not the 55% increase it might have been. So, Committeeman Hodes, >> just very simply, I would just like to say thank you.
>> Thank you. Does a bank sale help? >> Okay. Well, anyway, thank you so much, Sean. Really appreciate it. And you're welcome to. I guess you will stay here for the rest of the meeting. Thank you. All right. Um, thank you. And again, the public hearing will be on April 28th. So
Christie, new business item A. Oh, we did that. Hold on. We just did. Okay, Christie. Item B, >> resolution 2026-213, introduction of the 2026 budget and municipal budget notice of the township
of Bernard's County of Somerset for fiscal year 2026. >> Thank you. And just a quick comment, this resolution along with the next three are aligned to the budget introduction and golf utility budget introduction as per local law as well as two resolutions for temporary
appropriations. The appropriations do not commit final budget appropriations equal to these amounts. So any discussion? May I have a motion? I move that resolution 2026213
be approved and scheduled for a public hearing on April 28th, 2026. >> Christy, roll call, please. >> Miss Acy, >> yes. >> Mr. Hodgees, >> yes. >> Mr. Tomkins, >> Mayor Dwarte McCarthy,
>> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you, Christie. Item C, >> resolution 2026-214, emergency temporary appropriation operations. >> Any discussion? Seeing none, may I have a motion?
>> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you, Christie. Roll call, please. >> Miss Acy, >> yes. >> Mr. Hodgeges, >> yes. >> Mr. Tomkins, >> yes. >> Mayor Dwarte McCarthy, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you, Christie. Item D,
>> resolution 2026-215, emergency temporary appropriations golf. >> Any discussion? >> May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Christy, roll call, please. >> Miss AC, >> yes. >> Mr. Hodgees,
>> yes. >> Mr. Tommpkins, >> yes. >> Mayor Dwarte McCarthy, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you, Christie. Item E, >> resolution 2026-216, introduction of the 2026 utility budget and utility budget notice of the
self-liquidating golf utility of the township of Bernard's County of Somerset for fiscal year 2026. >> Any discussion? Seeing none, may I have a motion? Move >> that the resolution 2026 216 be approved
and scheduled for public hearing on April 28th, 26. Second. >> Christie. Roll call, please. >> Miss AC. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hodgeges. >> Yes. >> Mr. Tomkins. >> Yes. >> Mayor Jarte McCarthy. >> Yes.
>> Motion carried. >> Christie. Item F. >> Resolution 2026-218 authorizing the Bernard's Township Chief of Financial Officer to conduct the annual budget examination. >> Okay. Okay. And as Sean explained, uh,
we are subject to state examination of the budget every 3 years with our next state exam being in 2027. And as long as we meet certain fiscal criteria in years that we are not subject to state examine like this year, the township committee can authorize our CFO, Mr. Shan
McCarthy, and our auditors to self-certify. So, may I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Christy, roll call, please. Miss Hy, >> yes. >> Mr. Hodes, >> yes. >> Mr. Tomkins, >> yes.
>> Mayor Dwarte McCarthy, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. That brings us to our consent agenda. The items listed within the consent agenda portion of the meeting have been referred to the township committee for reading and study. A copy posted on the website, are considered routine, and will be enacted by one
motion of the township committee with no separate discussion. If severate discussion is required, the item may be removed from the agenda by township committee action and placed on the regular agenda under new business. Would any of my colleagues like an item removed from the consent agenda?
>> No, mayor. >> Okay. May I have a motion? >> So move. >> Second. >> Christie, roll call, please. >> Miss Hy, >> yes. >> Mr. Hodgees, >> yes. >> Mr. Tomkins, >> Mayor Jarte McCarthy? >> Yes.
>> Motion carried. Thank you, Christie. Approval of minutes. >> March 10th, 2026, open session minutes. >> May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Christie, roll call, please. >> Missy? >> Yes. >> Mr. Hodgees? >> Yes.
>> Mr. Tommpkins? >> Yes. >> Mayor Dwarte McCarthy? >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. That brings us to our second public comment. Comments are welcome welcomed during the second public comment period of this meeting on any matter over which the township committee has jurisdiction. The public comment
portion of the agenda is not structured as a question and answer session but offers an opportunity to share your thoughts with the township committee. The committee may or may not address these comments during the meeting. However, all comments are considered. To address this body, the speaker must come forward to the microphone and state
their name for the record. To ensure an orderly and respectful meeting, speakers should avoid personal attacks, inflammatory language, or derogatory remarks toward any individual or group. Each speaker is limited to 5 minutes. The clerk will keep time. Please
promptly yield the floor when time is called and return to your seat. Your cooperation in adherence to these rules will ensure an orderly and respectful meeting. I open public comment. Stein Riverside Drive. I could yell on
the screen about the budget, like a nickel and dime about waste here and there. It makes a difference. Budget's going to go the way it's going to go. Next month, what I want the committee to do is to make a resolution and send a letter to
the state to the governor, the assembly, and the senate leaders saying about this insurance problem. Who has the same damn problem? Write the damn letter. There's no problem doing it. Put it out there. Don't go, "Well, we're going to be with
a group of mayors. I don't care. Stand up and we're going to say it. Burns is having a problem just like everybody else. And we want you to know we're pissed. I want that letter. I want to see that resolution. I want to see our res
resolution before April 28th when this comes out because I think it's important to let them know. One more thing, Jennifer, please yank that mic out of that freaking wall. It's no good. It
goes in and out. It's driving everybody crazy. You could barely hear it. We have it. Have them come up here and test the mics and find out why. But it's it's horrible. It's It goes in and out. In, out, in, out. Thank you very much.
>> Thank you, Mr. Edstein. I'm not sure it's just Jen's microphone. I think all of us I heard the same thing. So, thank you. Good evening, Nancy Dandrea, 3 Vander Drive. Um,
I heard you fine, but it popped a couple of times. Um, I'm here to talk about I went to my first cooking club at the library. Okay, let me tell you some seriously good fun and some seriously good cooks out there.
All right, why was I there? Because I'm part of the 250th anniversary committee and Sue had to come. So, it was um I I went there. We all had to bring a recipe from the 50s, 60s or 70s. And it was
amazing because we had all we had different nationalities represented also. So it was like this was my grandmother's from this and this was from this country. It was so much fun. Really fantastic. And then I presented I I presented my dish and then I also
talked about the 250th because what are we having on flag day at Ross Farm? We're having a cooking contest. Okay. But your recipe has to be a 100 plus years old. Can be from any country though. We're America melting pot. We can't just think that we're all from the
colonists. So, um please uh we're going to be putting up those uh flyers throughout the town. Uh and it has a QR code. Three different categories. Uh cookies because they can bake those easily. Breads staple in the diets. And
then how did they keep all their vegetables and everything like that? They pickled them. So, pickle delights. So, those are the three categories. You can pick one. There will be prizes. Okay. So, big prizes. Nice big basket filled with like cooking stuff and
things that you'll love to bring back to the house. And uh please spread the word. Flag day Ross Farms cooking contest. Enter. It's free to enter. Okay. So, and and please spread that word to everybody. Thank you so much.
>> You cook there, Nancy. Or bring it. >> No, no, you bring it. You're gonna bring it. No, that that No, we're not going to have the the fire pit with the, you know, we're not we're not Williamsburg. We're not Williamsburg. Okay. So, uh No, you bring the items and you don't have
to bring like hundreds. You can bring just, you know, a serving um like 12 cookies. There are judges, okay? Uh three different sets of judges. Anna will be one of them and I believe David Becker of Ross Farms will be working with gathering the judges. Okay, but
please share this. We would like to have at least 10 10 entries per category. I could see cookies going through the roof. But uh yeah, just do it. Have fun. It's Flag Day. Great music. It'll be a lot of fun. And David Becker's behind it. Anna's behind it. You guys are
behind it. It'll be awesome. Thank you. >> Thank you, Nancy. and actually have a flyer for the event. I was at Ross Farm so you can share it with folks that are here. It's it's bound to be a fun event of people. One woman goes, "It's
competition." I go, "Yeah." And they go, "I'm in." I was like, "Okay, so the competitiveness of, let's be honest, we have a few overachievers in our town." Okay. So, uh the competitiveness is
alive and well in the 50 plus club, too. Okay. So, they they're all they're all ready to sign up. Thank you. >> You're very welcome. Thank you, Nancy. Hey, any other comments? Okay, seeing none, I close public
comment. All right, that brings us to adjournment. Any Oh, rather Christie, any executive session? >> None. this evening. Mayor, >> may I have a motion to adjurnn? >> Second. >> All in favor?
>> I >> Hey, thank you. Thank you very much. Good evening.