No. So 10 10 ap I'll handle when we get there. >> Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. >> Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Uh welcome to the agenda session for the Bridgewater Township Council on October 6th. In compliance with the Open Public
Meetings Act of New Jersey, the adequate notice of this meeting was provided uh on December 10th, 2024 by sending written notice and electronic notice to the Courier News and the Breeze posting on the website in the bulletin board in the municipal building and filing with
the township clerk. Madam clerk, may we have the roll call, please? >> Councilman Kersh >> here. Councilman Codella >> here. Councilman Pedroso >> here. >> Councilman Ring, >> good evening. Here. President Ogalas. >> Yes. Uh would you stand if you are able
while uh Councilman Kersh leads us in the pledge. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America >> and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with
liberty and justice for all. Thank you. We have minutes for approval. Minutes of September 4th, 2025 and September 18th, 2025. Has everyone for regular session? Has everyone had an opportunity to look them over? >> Saw the 4th. I don't Did the 18th come
out? >> No. >> No. >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> 18th. >> Okay. >> I'll make a motion to approve September 4th regular. >> Second, please. >> I'll second. >> All those in favor? I >> I Okay, we >> I will abstain from September 4th. >> Thank you. Okay, those minutes are
approved. Uh close sessions are are have to be circulated. There's a couple of adjustments. Township council reports. Um Mr. Kersh, would you first please? Sure. So, uh I was absent on September 18th because earlier that day I had emergency retina surgery. So, uh the
good news is uh my recovery uh at this point has been successful. It just is taking time. Um uh just to go through things, this is now for two meetings worth. The zoning board uh met on September 9th. Uh two
cases uh there was an extension of an approval of a residential addition on Hawthorne Avenue. And then another case was carried. This is Rockland APV Bridgewater Energy LLC, an industrial battery generating facility over at 760
Main Street. Uh I attended the 911 ceremony. um you know an an important uh event that we um uh that we hold each and every year. Uh on uh Sunday the 14th, two items. I was at community
funday uh that was um um sponsored in coordination with the Jewish Community Center. uh and also had the privilege of um giving some some brief welcome remarks uh for a special session over at the Bridgewater uh Gerwala the seek
temple. Uh there was a a service where several local uh officials were um were invited. Also gubernatorial candidate Jack Chidarelli was there. Uh planning board met on September 16th. They did the master uh master plan consistency
review that this body then um took action on two days later on the 18th. On uh September 27th, I had the privilege of giving a brief brief set of welcoming remarks uh at the uh uh Alzheimer's walk
held as it is each year at the um Duke Island Park. Uh Councilman uh Cordillo is there. Mayor Mench joined us as well for the ribbon cutting uh in advance of the uh the start of the walk. Uh September 30th, the planning board met
uh and um had its hearing and adopted the master plan. On uh October 4th this past uh Saturday, I uh attended the um mid autumn lantern festival. Uh that was in coordination
with our Chinese community. Uh and just one other item to briefly report on. Uh the staff continues to reach out to the Department of Transportation uh seeking uh additional information on the Prince Prince Rogers Avenue bridge construction
project. Uh Bridgewater had forwarded uh the suggestion which came from Councilman Ring that they consider a third option. While we certainly love the third option, which would allow traffic in both directions and a minimum of disruption, uh we need to hear back from the DOT whether or not that's
viable. And that's my report. >> Thank you, Councilman Pedroso. >> You know, I was concerned uh that I wasn't going to have enough time to prepare for my council statement, but thank you, Councilman Kur, for giving me
ample time. In all seriousness, I'm glad to see you back. I hope you wish you a speedy continued speedy recovery for your for your eye. Good evening everybody. It's always nice to see so many faces in our council meeting. Sometimes we're here kind of alone.
People don't show up sometimes, but so it's it's nice to see all of you tonight. Thank you for coming. Um just a couple things I want to report. Um I did attend the uh the one the one church fall festival uh this past weekend. Uh
they had a nice uh outdoor festival. The weather was beautiful this weekend. So they were certainly blessed through great weather. Uh and I also attended two different uh Chinese American events. One was I was invited to the Bridgewater American Association back to
school and end of summer picnic. Um that was very nice. And also the um there was an event this weekend at the mall the the mid-autumn lantern festival. Um the the community certainly has has
events at the mall a couple times a year. Uh it's very well organized. If uh you ever get a chance to be if you're aware of it and get a chance to go see it, I would I would encourage it. They put on a quite a show. Um members of
their schools and other people come and participate and I think it's wonderful events. So if you get a chance to see it and be experienced part of that culture, I think it's I would encourage it. And that's all I have. Thank you very much. >> Thank you, sir. Uh Mr. Ring, please.
>> Thank you. I relatively brief report. Um one thing I wanted to comment on is I know there's a both social media and I've seen myself um growing use of ebikes and scooters throughout the township. I know our police department has uh recently published some
information on this. As a general rule, if the ebike or scooter goes over 20 miles an hour, it does require a license and registration and you have to be 15 years of age or older to operate it. Um, if you're found in in illegally
operating it subject to uh impound um so just so folks are aware of that. And then I think it's also important to note with the growing use of ebikes and scooters, regardless of whether it's one that requires a license or not, um, highly recommend you follow the
manufacturer's recommendations as it relates to charging. Uh, and try to stick with the manufacturer's batteries and chargers. Aftermarket uh, devices can cause challenges such as fires, and it's always a good idea to charge it when you're home and around it so that
if something happens, you can intervene. do not recommend charging these devices while no one's home. Um, that's my report. >> Thank you, Mr. Cordella. >> Hey, my report is as follows. Um, in the
past few weeks, I attended the Bridgewater Chinese American Association back to school day, which reminded me of an oldtime church picnic, which was pretty nice. I attended the dance for the cure with the Bridgewater cheerleaders, the ribbon
cutting and so forth. Um, I have to give a lot of credit to the group for the money that's been raised over the years to to fund the fight for breast cancer. I also attended the Walk for Alzheimer's
with Councilman Kersh at Duke Island Park. And this past weekend on Saturday, I not only attended, but I participated in uh the Bridgewater Township Fireman's Inspection with the six fire companies
that serve as volunteer firefighters for Bridgewater Township. Um along with uh Councilman Ring's comments, I have noted here my concerns related to the um use of ebikes and so
forth. I believe about a week ago, we read about a young man in Scotch Plains, I believe, who was killed riding an ebike in traffic. And as a as we all drive around the township, I think it's becoming more obvious that
there's a lack of uh you know, compliance with with rules and regulations uh with these bikes going in and out of traffic and so forth. The only comment that I would ask is
that I would ask parents is to please uh think about what you're doing having your child on an ebike is it, you know, buzzing around the town. The results on it may not be uh worth the purchase price of the bike with the catastroph
catastrophic injuries to your child. So that's my my report. >> Thank you, sir. My report is as follows. I was asked by a member of our Jewish community to share a few words about Yam Kapour in my comments. In general, some
non-Jewish folks refer to Yam Kapour as a holiday. In point of fact, for the Jews, it is not a holiday but the holiest day of the year. The day the day day they feel closest to God is the day of atonement. uh quoting from the biblical Old Testament book of
Leviticus, for on this day you will forgive he will forgive you to purify you that you will be cleansed from all your sins before God. Uh during the current federal shutdown, residents are asked to be especially mindful that scammers are praying on the
public, especially those who are disabled or on social security. Be very careful in disclosing your your private information. Uh if if a deal sounds too good, it probably is. Councilman Cordilla, Mayor Mench, and I met with Bridgewater resident Brook Herpst and a
very large contingent of the Bridgewater Ritan High School cheer team where we helped tie a pink bow around a ginko tree in the courtyard, symbolizing our support for breast cancer awareness month. It matters not whether the ribbon you use is yellow or pink. It is the
support that counts. More to follow on that in a few minutes. Tonight, the council will consider closing out six major road jobs for 2025. You will hear me talk about change orders and final change orders. You will hear about some financial numbers going
up, some going down. Lots of things happen during the weeks that an individual project is underway. Things are discovered that could not be foretold. Hitting blue stone where shale was expected. A resident ab budding the project is concerned for runoff and the
engineer evaluates and feels that the best solution is additional drain pipe or even an additional sewer collector. 70 years ago, residential streets did not have or require the best practices that we adhere to today. We are
designing and engineering our roads for the future and the future starts tomorrow. Uh Mr. Papis, did you want me to hold your your report or do you >> Actually, may I sir, >> may I add one item to my report? I forgot. Sir, um I did hear earlier today
that uh North Bridge Street, which was recently dug up by the water company, is tenatively scheduled weather permitting for milling on Monday and Tuesday, repaving Wednesday and Thursday. So, um I'm sure there'll be more coming on that, but residents should be aware they
can expect delays next week, weather permitting, on North Bridge Street. >> Okay. Thank you. Mr. Papis, should I do Dance for the Cure first? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. >> Brooke, would you bring your entire contingent up to the front, please? Everybody who's involved in Dance for
the Cure. And by the way, this is this is probably one of the toughest parts I have. In fact, I wonder what happened to my paperwork. >> My uh were there three sheets of paper here?
>> Is that your papers? Okay, I have to have a crib sheet. I'm sorry, folks. I use large print and this is in in past years, those of you who have been here uh recognize that this is a very very tough subject for me to talk
about. Uh it's one near and dear to my heart. I have been personally impacted uh by this over many years. And uh so I'm going to read the proclaim proclamation and then I'm gonna ask I'm gonna use Brooke as my support person. She won't have a little sign or
something, but when I stumble, she'll come over and put her arm around. >> I'll keep it here the whole time. >> I I I appreciate it. But um the this is an important month. uh breast cancer awareness affects virtually every family
in one way may one way or another. Now I'm going to read the proclamation and then I'm going to ask Brooke to introduce you folks. Now by the way this is just a small contingent when we put wrapped the ribbon around there must have been 35 or 40 people. It was a splendid celebration
and I had to put my sunglasses on for the reflection off all those pink shirts. Uh but here is here is the proclamation proclamation recognizing breast cancer awareness month 2025. Whereas in 2025 the United States faces
the sobering reality that more than 319,000 individuals will receive a diagnosis of invesive breast cancer. And whereas over 42,000 of our fellow
Americans are expected to lose their lives to this disease this year, reminding us of the continued urgency of awareness, research, and early detection. And whereas there is hope in the program
that we have made as mortality from breast cancer has fallen by more than 44% since 1989, representing hundreds of thousands of lives extended and families preserved.
And whereas these victories are the direct result of tireless effort in medical research, expanded access to screening and treatment, and the compassion of community organizations that walk with patients in their most
difficult moments. And whereas Dance for the Cure, a fully volunteered driven organization based here in central New Jersey, exemplifies this spirit of solidarity by providing
direct financial aid and encouragement to breast cancer particip participants, oh, I'm sorry, patients in Somerset, Hundred, and Middle Sex County. And whereas through their work, Dance for the Cure has surpassed $1 million in
assistance distributed easing the burdens faced by families during their fight against breast cancer. And whereas this October, Bridgewater resident Brooke Herps together with the Bridgewater Raritan High School cheer Team join the ribbons of hope
initiative, placing pink ribbons around the Bridgewater Municipal Complex. And whereas these ribbons shine as visible reminders of resilience of our community's unwavering support for patients and survivors and of
remembrance for those who we have lost. Now therefore I thank you Matthew C. Mench of Bridgewater Township along with members of the town council do hereby proclaim Octo I told you it
was going to get bad October 20 2025 as breast cancer awareness month in Bridgewater Township. We call on all residents to support Dance for the Cure and other critical organizations to care for survivors and to stand together in hope for a future
without breast cancer. We further recognize and commend the commend the dedicated efforts of Brookerps and the Bridgewater High School cheer team for their inspiring leadership in raising awareness through
the community. Thank you. Now, would you say a few words, please? >> Hi, I'm Brook Herps and I'm actually a 12-year cancer survivor. Um, I'm here with the co-chairs of Dance for the Cure organization, and I'm going to have them
say a few words in a few minutes, as well as the cheer representation from Bridgewater High School. The um, four girls that are with us are all seniors, and we also have other volunteers from the organization that are a major part of our annual fundraiser that create the
baskets that are just absolutely amazing. And Jeannie Casady, who is also the cheer coach for the girls. Um, so I'm gonna have Kathleen or Joanne Kathleen Ceroli, Joanne Liskovitz, they're the chair for chair co-chairs for Dance for the Cure.
>> Thank you. Bruce Schroer has been wonderful to us and how we're he makes me want to cry every year. Um, I am co-founder. I'm a three-time cancer survivor, one of them being breast cancer. And
I've never been so emotional. >> Yeah. Yeah, thank you so much. Uh we just appreciate being a part of this proclamation. Um we have raised over $1.3 million and donated actually donated to women in the area that are
going through financial need uh while they're have a breast cancer diagnosis and I feel very grateful to still be here and be a part of this. So thank you very much. So, just a little bit about um our big event that will be held in Bridgewater
at the Bridgewater Marriott. Um this will be our 19th Ribbons of Hope event and it will be attended by over 500 people. We've sold out at the end of July. So, we've become known as um you
know a special event. People support us. It's a night of celebrating. It's a night of remembering and having lots of fun and raising money. And we appreciate Brooke is one of our most tireless
volunteers of all time. We call her our Energizer Bunny. She just she has a broken toe. She has she gave a kidney a couple years ago. I mean, really, she she's just amazing and she still wants to do more and more every year. And so
that's how Dance for the Cure has become known throughout central New Jersey. We have expanded to helping patients also in Mercer County as well. So that was just a an update on our um info. But we
have um Judy Craraven who is a Bridgewater resident who's been with us since the very very beginning when we started in 1999. That was the year after Kathleen was diagnosed with breast cancer. Lisa Scalera.
Uh we we've just we have amazing support and it's a very very special camaraderie friendship that has grown as a result of our organization which makes it even more special. So thank you for this
honor. We appreciate it. >> Anyone else wishing to say a few words? >> Okay. Could we have a big round of applause? down, folks. >> I don't want to get in his way. [Applause]
If I read that at home, I do fine, but not so much here. Thank you, Mr. Papus. >> Thank you. Um, a couple of things. I I know uh Mr. Norgalis, you did mention that on the agenda are several closeouts, some of the road programs. Uh
overall, as you said, there were increases and decreases, but overall it's approximately a $200,000 overall decrease, and we certainly appreciate our engineering staff and the contractors who've been very diligent with the funds that the council provides
for road programs. Um the other um item I wanted to mention, I did forward to the council last week and Mr. Pandos forwarded an update today. Each year the department of community affairs has a
best practices inventory that municipalities are required to submit. Uh this year's is no different other than the score that we are able to achieve increased from last year slightly. Last year it was 38 I believe
or 39 and it went to 40.5 this year. Uh the council is always very diligent about reading documents that we provide and um we uh found or Mr. Ngalis and Mr. Cordella at least found a couple of
points that were uh questions that Mr. Pandos and I reviewed and he made some um revisions and sent a memo that that clarifies that. Um, copies certainly are available. And what's important about this inventory is if a municipality
doesn't submit or scores a lower score, then state aid is not available. But the uh the minimum minimum score is 32 and uh we were like I said at hovering just over 40 points. So, um there's no council action that's
spec specifically required, but this is something that uh we need to present and uh have done so here. So, if you have any questions or comments, >> anything else for the mayor's report? >> I have a comment on the okay best practices report and I apologize. I
don't know if this is one of the things that was covered. have not reviewed today's memo yet, but um I noticed one of the items you can earn points for is uh a resolution allowing first responders to receive tuition credit at
RVCC. Um I know that is something that our community has taken advantage of probably for 20 years or more, but I noticed we didn't get credit for it. So I actually looked in the I couldn't find a reference in e-code. So I'm not sure
if that's a gap we need to address. >> Yeah, I think it is. Uh I think Mr. Cordilla mention mentioned that as well. And I know that there are instances where where an emergency responder presents a form that either the mayor or I would sign, which I've done numerous
times on his behalf. >> Well, it's been going on well before this administration. >> We're going to see if we can uh that. Yes. Yeah, >> thank you. >> Anything else? >> Uh the only other thing if I can is uh we weren't able to add it to the agenda but have a brief presentation from uh
representatives of an organization that the council approved funding uh for uh last year and I see a couple of them here in the audience if they could come forward. Um the organization is referred to as community and connection and um
they have been uh very busy in helping uh residents of Bridgewater and um uh I know the gentleman with the blue shirt is Mr. Michael Manion and unfortunately I can't remember the gentleman in the purple shirt's name but I know you've been here and would appreciate a few
folks would introduce yourselves and and give a brief update to the council. >> So my name is Ken Musgrove. I'm the director of recovery support for community and connection. We are Somerset County's community peer recovery center and tonight we're here representing the community recovery
champion program that's led by Mike Manion. Hi everyone, my name is Mike Manion. I'm the community recovery champion for Bridgewater Township through CSE for prevention and recovery and a lifelong resident of Bridgewater. Uh most importantly, I am a person in sustained
recovery and a certified peer recovery specialist. uh which means that I use my lived experience to walk with others alongside others uh who are struggling with substance use and connect them to resources, treatment, and hope. Uh as a community recovery champion, I'm an advocate for recovery in the community,
specifically working with our townships and municipalities to build awareness, break stigma, and connect people to help. Uh the community recovery champion program is designed to meet people where they're at, and connect them with resources that they need. Uh, this program offers but is not limited to
one-on-one peer support for individuals struggling with substance use, recovery education, community workshops, navigation to treatment and recovery uh, resources, free Narcan and harm reduction supplies, Narcan trainings, expungement assistance, and most importantly, a voice and a face to
advocate for recovery in our community. Um, our goal is to show the community recovery or our goal is to show the the community that recovery is not only possible, but it is probable if you have someone that can walk alongside you along your recovery journey. Uh, since the SAR this year, the Bridgewater CRC
program has grown tremendously and has made a meaningful impact on several people. Uh, from January through September, we participated in nine community events, including the 4 fair and overdose awareness night. We've attended several community meetings
including the Somerset County Overdose Task Force and Bridgewater Municipal Alliance meeting regularly. Uh we've hosted or supported six outreach events engaging residents and connecting people to services. Uh we've led four trainings at the Bridgewater Library and uh maybe
most importantly distributed 327 Narcan kits and 87 fentanyl test strips to the community. Uh reaching over 1,160 community members through these combined efforts. Uh we've worked hard to build relationships in Bridgewater. Over the past six months, we've visited and
distributed educational material and harm reduction supplies to over 60 local businesses and organizations. And we continue to collaborate closely with the Bridgewater Police Department, the municipal alliance, and the Bridgewater uh reach program to uh expand our
recovery support across the township. Uh, and Bridgewwater is the first municipality in Somerset County to implement a program where a peer recovery specialist meets individuals directly in municipal court, offering real-time support, resources, and a chance uh to change things before they
escalate further. Uh earlier uh actually a couple weeks ago, uh Bridgewater Township participated in the nationwide Save a Life Day, which is a harm reduction initiative where we distributed 550 Nlloxxone kits over Somerset County. and I personally handed
out uh 31 Narcan kits at the Bridgewater Food Bank. And through our consistent presence at the food bank, the library, community affairs, and municipal court, we've seen real results. Uh individuals who met us at tableabling events have gone in to enter treatment programs.
Local businesses are stocking Narcan and harm reduction supplies. Uh and residents who uh who we've connected through social media have reached out for peer support. Um, as we move forward, our priorities for Bridgewater are strengthening partnerships with with uh Bridgewater Reach, law enforcement,
and the uh municipal alliance, expanding digital and social media outreach, uh, enhancing municipal court engagements, and helping additional Somerset County towns implement the community recovery champion program. Uh, recovery is
possible, and more than that, it is possible when you have someone to walk alongside you. Uh, I want to thank the Bridgewater Township Council. um to your continued support and partnership and uh what we're building here matters and we're changing lives every day and uh together we're showing that connection
and community matters and that every story deserves to be heard. So, thank you. >> Any questions, comments, please. >> I I just want to say that uh Mike and Ken have been very helpful as I said
interacting with our municipal court more recently in our police department. Uh the council did fund this through a uh opioid settlement class action suit where the township had applied and has received significant funding and this was an ideal uh place to uh for the
council to to provide funding that as you can hear is making a significant impact for people in Bridgewater. >> Gentlemen, >> thank you gentlemen for the work >> the work that you do. >> That work is vital. so vital and like
breast cancer, opioids touch every family and and you're helping to make it better. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, we're moving now to item number nine, which is meeting open to the public. Members of the public wishing to address the council on any matter will
be allowed three minutes to speak unless there are unusual circumstances. I have a motion to open to the public. Please >> make the motion. >> Second. >> Second. >> All those in favor? I >> I >> Okay, we're open to the public. Please come up, sign your name uh on the paper and give us your name and address.
>> There's no um signing Amy thingy. Uh Jen Lan. Um I'm in Bridgewwater. Um it's so I actually have some thoughts about ebikes and also I'm I'm going to talk about Skate for the Pause, but I just
wanted to acknowledge um the recovery program champion and the opioid funds that were used. um and how important it is for smaller organizations to have access to funds like that. Um and and I thank them for what they do. Uh so
council, yeah, I I've seen what you've been seeing um with ebikes and uh in the Facebook mom groups and we've got this generation of menaces to society out there. you know, kids in the streets,
mostly boys, they're doing dumb and dangerous things. And like I honked at one doing a wheelie and he gave me the finger, the audacity. You know, kids today out there in their own towns in
the reckless pursuit of fun. Um but on the serious note, you know, uh loss of life with young people is just just horrifying for anybody, um especially those of us who have
experienced it. Um, but I feel like this call to ban ebikes, which is not what we're doing here, uh, but what we're seeing in places like Union County and even, uh, when you look at the bike, scooter, roller skating and
skateboarding regulations and laws in Somerville that prevent almost all wheeled activity for kids um, in that time. And and they took our skatepark. Um, I think like it's very similar to what what
happened with skateboarding, right? Like we're we're at this crux. It if we overreact in policy a and prevent access to kids to have a form of transportation, um, we run the risk that like, you know,
kids won't have access to I I just came back on a redeye from from California and you go out there and everybody's riding something and and that's not that's not how we live here. I mean, when I was a kid, we used to like ride to the mall. We would ride to
Somerville. Um but kids just started doing that again just recently because of access to ebikes. So, you know what's really funny about this is is where they're enacting the policies are actually in the most democratic towns.
But I would like this council to take a walk down liberal lane with me for a minute. Um, you know, when when we think about how we deal with these problems a and I appreciate the police and and and the um notification that they put out
because parents aren't aware that there are three classes of bikes, but when it comes to things like this, I would like to see a movement in our government where we're not talking about the enforcement, but we're talking about how we thoughtfully design our communities
so that kids have access to be able to ride their bikes to places perhaps to Cam Cromwell from another part of town. And when you talk about the bridge that's being redone or you talk about another development project in the future, perhaps there's an opportunity
to create a pathway where kids can transport themselves and not just kids if we're being honest. Um, so yeah, like I I appreciate you guys, you know, bringing up the issue because I I feel very strongly about safety and at the
same time I feel very strongly about especially young young men having access to those kinds of activities that challenge them to be brave. Um, so on that note, I did want to thank uh
Bridgewater and also uh invite you this Sunday, October 12th, to Skate for the Pause. It's uh a skateboarding event that we host right here in the municipal building and we fund raise and donate all of the funds to the Somerset County
Regional Animal Shelter. And this year is kind of special. School of Rock will be performing. Um, Gabriel's Fountain always sponsors, but we have a local band with like this strong 90s punk rock vibe and uh and they're going to be
filming like their very first music video. They're they're like hitting the kids. They're like 20some, but kids to us. Um, but it's very exciting. They're going to they're going to film a music video uh performing at Scape of the Pause. So, I want to thank you all for always supporting us on that endeavor
and uh and build a skatepark. >> Thank you for your input. Next person up, please. >> Uh good evening everyone. And Troyan, um Stangle Road, Martinsville. I actually just wanted to respond to >> Lift the microphone up a little bit so
so we can hear you better. Thank you. Is that better? >> That's better. Thank you. >> Um, and Troyan, Stangle Road, Martinsville, I just wanted to respond to the previous speaker as well as bring up the topic that I wanted to discuss. I think actually I I see it differently. I
saw the grid in the newsletter and it was informative and I appreciated Councilman Ringing bringing it up. What I see this as a public safety awareness opportunity um that perhaps leaisoning with the board of ed with the SRO's in the
schools it can be a an opportunity to raise awareness about the safety aspects directly to the students and probably the the demographic that's that's affected most by this issue. It's still
the beginning of the school year. it can be really used as a we we care about everybody. We don't want anybody to get hurt and here are the guidelines that we're instituting to be sure that that happens. So I I look at it a little differently that it's an opportunity to raise everyone's awareness, not just
those who read the newsletter or listen to this um but perhaps to that demog demographic specifically. The issue that I uh wanted to bring up though concerns the finances, specifically the financial audit for 2024.
If I'm reading the statute correctly, it should have been done by now by June 30th by the auditors that we hire. And over the last seven years, it generally shows up to the council and therefore the public July or August. That has not
taken place. The only time that didn't happen was a couple years ago when there were significant findings and and a corrective action plan had to be filed with the state. So I'm concerned that the township council has not received this and the administration has not
shared this and therefore it's not public with the constituents as well. So I'm searching for an update if one is available. >> Mr. Papus is prepared to address that. >> Yes. Um the auditor has finalizing the draft and uh we hope to get it soon.
>> I'm sorry. So the there's a draft of the audit available. >> He's finalizing the draft, >> but it was supposed to be done by June 30th. >> Understand? >> Was an extension requested as per the statute? >> Uh I am not sure. Well, and if it's
going to the statute states if if it's not going to be done by June's 30th that um the director of the division of local government services must be requested to provide an extension and a reason
provided. So, you're saying that the auditor only has a draft at this point at the top of October? >> That's what I said, ma'am. And I I'm not sure if the uh uh auditor or the CFO
submitted a request for an extension. I know that uh >> the governing forunately if I can finish the auditor the governing body if I can finish um I uh I am not sure if that took place but I can certainly find out and report back to the council. This is
um uh not necessarily unusual for a municipality to have an audit delayed in being finalized by an auditor. There numerous reasons that uh can occur that prompt this. Um but I can assure you that the audit firm is finalizing the
draft. That's that's the only report I can give. I would urge the administration to abide by the statute and perhaps the purpose of a financial audit isn't really readily available to you.
But not only does it inform and crossch checkck and validate the ending balances and the fund balances from that fiscal year, which you need in order to make sure this year's budget is okay and the preparation of next year's budget, which I hope is underway, is proper. But it
also points out obviously the internal control and procedure adherence and any recommendations. If it's October of the following year and the public doesn't know those findings and the council doesn't know the findings, then it really pretty much makes the purpose of
the audit moot. And so you can hopefully understand my concern that it's really it doesn't it's not just a check off on the list or be best practices inventory. It really does inform the financial function of the administration and it's disappointing to
hear that you're awaiting a draft at this point. Thank you very much. >> Next person wishing to address the council, please. >> Mr. President, if I could just comment, uh, the the administration is very much
aware of the expectations and the requirements to ensure that this the township provides proper uh, reports and provide both to the governing body and to the department of community affairs. As I said, a delay in finalizing a draft
uh occurs for a variety of reasons and um that should not be it should not be assumed that there is uh any uh particular reason other than that. >> That gave me time to sign. That was good. Jane Gandalf, uh representative of
2000 Washington Valley Road, Martinsville, representing Friends of Bridgeport. >> And can you get a little closer to the microphone, please? Thank Thank you. >> Um I want to remind everyone that this weekend is a journey through the past. So the house that Bridgewater Township
owned at 551 Miltown Road will be open with the display and um we have a demonstration. We have some children's games from Colonial Times and we have information about the history of the house. Um, I
also want to re extend an invitation to visit the Yelly House. If you're interested, feel free to contact me. That's it. Thank you. >> Jane, would you leave the card, please? Thank you. >> What date is Journey of the P? Through the past. >> What time?
>> Would you distribute make a copy, please? >> Thank you. Thank you. Next person wishing to address the council, please. My name is Daniel Zalinski. I live at 715 Chimney Rock Road.
Uh, I'm here tonight to talk about the pilot which was passed a few weeks ago. The more I learn about pilots and this pilot in particular, the worse it looks. Uh, the mayor claimed that this deal is the result of hard negotiations
uh, and represents the very best deal that Bridgewater could get. Yet, no evidence has been presented to support this claim. And let's state some facts at this point. The state law puts limits
on pilots. One limit states the best deal a developer can get is to pay 10% of gross rents and your deal gives them this. The state also limits the most time a
developer can get tax discounts at 30 years. And your deal gives them this too. The lowest initial percentage of rents and for the longest period of time
allowed resulting in a tax discount of over 50%. And I don't think anybody would call that hard negotiations. This administration chose to act on that
pilot without allowing residents time to digest the agreement and the associated financials. When the integrity of the numbers was brought into question, Mr. Kersh simply asked the mayor if he was confident with
the financials in the pilot. and the mayor stated that he relied on the analysis of his consultants and Excel formulas. Mr. Kersh needed no additional
analysis and chose along with the rest of the council to approve the pilot. Not how I would define due diligence. Mr. Kersh's argument that a discount of
50% or over a hund00 million represents the best alternative is offered without any real evidence. There are plenty of buildings being built without pilots.
Just because a property is eligible for a pilot does not mean that one must be granted. For example, the lab on Miltown Road is being constructed without a pilot. It is true that the property right next
to this one has inquired or applied for a permit to construct an additional built uh building and I believe also without a pilot. A pilot gives up over a hundred million
dollars, real dollars. I believe residents deserve real consideration when decisions based on relevant uh with deserve real consideration with decisions based on relevant and real
facts especially when deals are being signed that impact residents for 30 years. This is not what you delivered when you voted to approve this pilot.
Thank you. Uh I I've just understood recently that you wear several hats. You're also the chair of the Bridgewater Democratic chair and I applaud your activities there. Uh Miss Franco, good good afternoon. >> Good evening. Um Kathy Franco, I live at
block 816, lot 10.02. Um, let me start by saying thank you for Dance for the Cure, for everything they do for our um, individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer to help them in their recovery. Um, to follow up on what
Mr. Troyan talked about, the audit, I've been bringing this up for months. Um, and I too am very disappointed that we don't have an audit. I I'm surprised that as town council persons that you're
not questioning where the heck is the audit. The fiscal year ended December 31st. We are now what? October 6th. Um I'm sorry. There's no excuse. Um and if you're not even aware whether or not you
filed an extension, that's just beyond my scope of understanding. Um, as far as the annual financial statements report on the website, I would ask that you look at the 2024
and 2025 what's listed at on the website currently as the annual financial statement reports because they're not that they don't even come close and they make no sense whatsoever. So, please go
to the website tonight, look at them, and find out why it is that we're posting information that makes absolutely no sense. Um, following up on the pilot, um,
I filed a OPER request on September 21st requesting information regarding the pilot on the I don't care what we call it today. um Petersburg I guess it's called in the current language formerly known as center for excellence formerly
known as Sanapy formerly known as block and lot number 17 1819 whatever you want to call it um I was notified on September 24th that I will not have that information until October 15th the information I requested
yet when the pilot was discussed by this board. Um, Mayor Mench talked about the fact that, you know, he based his decision and board members apparently based their decision on
information that they had available. So, let me tell you what I was asking for. I was asking for correspondence between Aayor Bridgewater um urban renewal LLC and its agents with the township regarding taxation, special assessments and p payments in lie of
taxes from January of 2024 to the present. Records of negotiations between the township and its agent and that organization which resulted in agreement for payments, move taxes and special payments as referenced by the mayor during the September 4th council
meeting. Um I'm was requesting dates, minutes, reports and attendee names and negotiation section section sessions. Absent these provide any records of the negotiations. During the September 4th
council meeting, um the mayor stated his reliance upon numbers and analysis from our financial consultants and adviserss. So I was requesting the names of the financial advisors referred to to by the mayor, a copy of the analysis and
numbers referred to and the billing statements for the period of January of 2023 to the present for NW Financial Group LLC, Carlin Ward, Hash Ash and LLC.
Um McManaman Scotland and Bowman LLC. um as well as any reports and analysis and tax assessments, special assessments and payments in l of taxes issued by um NW
Financial Group Carlin Ward Hash Ash and Hurt LLC um and McMahon Scotland and Melman. Um, so if you as a council made your decision and did your due
diligence, I would expect all of that information to have been readily available to you and therefore readily available to me and that I would not have to wait an additional nine days, well beyond the required OPRA amount. Um, thank you for your time this
evening. >> Mr. President, >> I just make one comment. Miss Franco made a statement about the official financial statement uh that she references as I guess she wasn't able to uh absorb it. I'm not I don't remember
>> not absorbed not if I if I can just finish if I can finish please. Um or I don't remember exact wording but u I just wanted to point out that the annual financial statement is a document that has to be submitted to the state and the state has
to review it and approve it and accept it before the council could consider and approve the budget. So to suggest that it is not in proper form is not correct. >> Well so what so what's on the website right now? Did you look at what's on
your current website for the 2024? >> No, I didn't look at it. >> So, I would suggest you do that before you direct. I directed that the official financial statement be posted and that >> it should have been posted no later than February 28th. I >> that was verified by uh our auditor. So,
no document that was submit it was put on the on the website is the document that had been submitted to the state. M I I would I would challenge you to actually take the time to call up your website cuz I can do it right now and I
can show you how it is not what you're claiming it is. So if you go to township of Bridgewater, if you go to government, if you go to finance, if you go to finance reports,
and if I actually have a signal in here, >> Mrs. Franco, thank you for your comments. We understand your insight >> and you have the first page of what should be a 47page document right now and it should have been available no
later than fe the end of February from my understanding. >> Joan Guyer, 154 Hillside Avenue, Bridgewater, New Jersey. >> Did you sign in, please? Since you brought the issue up of one of our speakers, one of our public speakers
political affiliation, I thought it would be appropriate for the rest of the town to understand the political affiliations. Here we have Mr. Papis who is a former Republican councilman. We have Mr. Cadilla who is a Republican ran on the
Republican ticket as a councilman. I'm sorry, Mr. Papis. You ran for Congress and served in Congress. Mr. Ring ran the Republican ticket as a councilman. Mr. Corazini is running on the Republican ticket for surrogate county surrogate.
Mr. Naggalis, a another ran on the Republican ticket and is now a councilman. Mr. Kersh ran on the Republican ticket and is a councilman. And Mr. Pedroso ran on the Republican ticket and is running again together with Mr. Cadilla on the Republican
ticket. >> Republican running ticket. >> I am Joan Guyger. That's correct. And I am running on the Democratic ticket. If I am elected, I will be the first Democrat on the council in 37 years.
Perhaps what Mr. Zalinsky was pointing out with respect to what has happened with the center of excellence or whatever you want to call it has something to do with the fact that we have one party rule in this town. Thank you.
>> Anyone else wishing to address the council? >> Mr. Mr. President? >> Yes, sir. >> May I just make a comment? um about something that a previous speaker >> speaker mentioned about the pilot. Um I think it I know that councilman Kersh
had mentioned this but I think it's worth repeating. Uh there was a statement made Mr. I think Zalinsky said that pilot gives up uh approximately $und00 million in I think he meant tax revenue. That's u an assumption that he
is making that the pre-existing property would remain viable and would remain uh feasible for an operation similar to what had existed there previously. If you drive anywhere in the state, you can see uh older
office complexes or manufacturing facilities that are outdated and that are abandoned for other facilities in other places. And frequently what what occurs when a property becomes obsolete,
it becomes vacant. and uh the property owner if he's he or she is not able to rent it seeks a uh property assessment reduction through a process that goes either through the board of taxation or the tax court and
so u I think it's a a um not telling the whole story of what could occur if municipality doesn't consider that and municipalities are not in New Jersey we're not just competing with other states We're competing with other
municipalities in the state of New Jersey that are taking advantage of things such as pilot which are are utilized at least for Bridgewater very very selectively. The other municipalities Somerville being one that has used pilots numerous times as
compared to what Bridgewater has up until now. And I think that that was it's an important point to to make. Thank you. >> The old Democratic. >> Yes, ma'am. Name and address please. >> I'm Mary Robbins. I live at 26 Ash Street, Bridgewater.
So, um, our street, uh, Ash Street and Ray Street, I'm on the corner there. And, uh, the council, um, fixed our street that we, we came a couple weeks ago, uh, begging and pleading. Um, the culvert was fixed. They totally redid
the streets. And uh the we wanted to thank the mayor and the council and uh Michael Papis, the uh pave, the company that did it. Uh we thought we the whole neighborhood thinks they did an excellent job. Uh the person who was maybe the project
manager, the foreman, um we we saw him um every day walking the streets um making sure it was perfect. It did a great job. And um actually, if Jennifer was here, I'd say it's great for skateboarding. So, thank you very much.
>> Thank you. Well, Kathy, let's wait see if there's anybody else, then we'll give you another bite at the apple. Uh, anyone else wishing to address the All right, Kathy, come on back up. >> Um, thank you for your indulgence. I would just like to um respond to Mr.
Papis. Um, when we're talking about center of excellence specifically that property, there was a plan in place, this administration sued the property owners to prevent that
plan from going into place. There was not a pilot on that previous plan. So, Miss Franco, just to clarify, we did not sue COE. They sued us. And you sued
the excuse me, no, the first the first lawsuit that went into effect was Matt Mench. Oh, maybe he was not acting as part of the administration at that time, but he he sued the planning board and then there were lawsuits between COE and
this town council. So, you know what? All I'm saying is there was a viable project on that property without a pilot in place. And I would hope that if you want to have this discussion, we can do it offline or we can set up a debate
time where I can come and you can come before the public because I I am limited in my time and you seem to always get your last two cents in and that is not appropriate for public comment time. So
if you have something to say, say it to me now while I'm still standing here. Otherwise, I would hope that we don't discuss this anymore. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else wishing to address the council? Come on up, sir. [Music]
Good evening. Andrew Bucko, 543 Berrywood Lane. I would like to respond actually to follow up to uh what Miss Franco had uh said earlier about the annual financial statements. Um she might not have signal, but luckily I do.
Um the document that's on uh the township website linked from the link titled 2024 annual financial statement brings up a one-page document that reads as follows. Important read instructions.
Instructions. The following certification is to be used only in the event there is no municipality operated utility. If there is a utility operated by the municipality of a quote utility fund existed on the books of account, do
not sign this statement and do not remove any of the utility sheets from the document. Certification. I hereby certify that there was no quote utility fund on the books of account and there was no utility owned and operated by the township of Bridgewater, County of
Somerset during the year 2024 and that sheets 40 to 68 are unnecessary. I have therefore removed from this statement the sheets pertaining only to utilities name title unsigned. This must be signed by the chief
financial officer, controller, auditor or registered municipal accountant. Then there is a page separation but it is on the same page. Municipal certification of taxable property as of octo October 1st, 2024. Certification is hereby made
that the net valuation taxable of property liable to taxation for the year 2025 and filed with the county board of taxation on January 10th, 2025 in accordance with the requirements of NJSA chapter 54
4 through35 was in the amount of 11 bill445,94342,2000 signature of tax assessor. Oh, it's the email address. Township of Bridgewater, Somerset County sheet two. And that is it. That is clearly not a financial
statement. So, Township Administrator Papis, I would recommend that you look at the website that purports to have the documents that are required to be uh presented to the public and actually review it. And perhaps next time you
should take comments from the public and actually investigate them before you reflexively blame them for uh what your office clearly did not do properly. Thank you very much. >> Anyone else wishing to address the council?
Good evening. Uh, my name is Kevin Hoppel. I'm a 37year resident of Bridgewater and I'd like to address what I consider to be gross overdevelopment which is potentially going to take place in this town. Of course, first of all is
the Seni property and correct me if I'm wrong. Will that include 400 luxury apartments, a hotel, supermarket, fitness center, boutique, restaurants, and other retail spaces? >> No. >> Where am I wrong? uh 400 apartments, supermarket, hotel, retail.
>> That was the original >> That was the original proposal back in 2018. >> Okay. And where does it stand at this point in time? >> It is a combination of R&D facilities and industrial flex space. And I believe it's one small Councilman Kersh one
small retail strip. >> One small retail area. >> Yes. >> One small retailer. >> Yes. Like three or four stores. >> Okay. So, in actual size, how much of a reduction percentage-wise would you say that is? >> Do not have the numbers off the top of my head.
>> Okay. >> But the original plan, as espoused by a former mayor, uh was massive. It originally started at 550 homes, a bank, a hotel, uh with over a 100 rooms, and
and a fairly significant strip mall >> and supermarket. >> Yeah. and and a and a uh shop right an 80,000 square foot shopright. Uh so this has been trimmed down very very substantially and in fact members of
this the the current the serving mayor uh ran on a platform of opposition uh to that program very successfully and you've seen that being sliced and diced down to what it is right now. Now I don't think we we can give you this precise number. Uh but whatever number
you were looking at was was from years ago and is certainly not the case now. >> Okay. I want to go to the next uh next topic which would be what I consider to be an aesthetically I won't use the term idiots but an
hideous but an aesthetic eyesore. the proposal for the 120,000 square foot storage facility which would extend from the old tectonic office building on Route 22 down to Melik's farm stand on Route 28. Is that still
>> that is correct? >> That's that's an application before the zoning board. >> And I will just caution you that when something is before the zoning board that there's potential for appeal to this governing body. So we don't discuss it. We we can't get into the discussion
of applications that are are pending. Anybody in anybody that owns land has the right to submit an application. That does not mean it's going to be rubber stamped and approved, but anybody has the right to submit an application. >> Okay. So, you're saying that that is
>> it's before the zoning board >> at this point in time? >> Yes. Okay. >> So, if you have concerns about it, I would recommend going and speaking to the zoning board. >> Okay. >> Well, and I can actually offer one other suggestion. We do have two township newsletters. Uh, one is what I'll just
simply call broad-based information. The other is land use specific. And by signing up for one or both of those, particularly the one on land use, you will be notified of every uh agenda for planning board and zoning board. So when uh that application is heard, you would
be specifically notified for it. >> Okay. Uh what is the status of the ethicon parcel? The 83 acre parcel which was purchased by a dewy pile. It's been purchased and I believe it's in litigation. >> In litigation in what regard?
>> Between litigation, we can't discuss it. >> Okay. So, if that actually does come to fruition, Adwey Pile is a major trucking and logistics firm within the United States. They have locations in Maine, Indiana, Virginia, West Virginia, South
Carolina with extended coverage throughout the Southeast. So, if that actually does come to pass, are we looking at a full-blown warehouse and heard it's we cannot discuss and we do not have any applications.
>> Piece of property was purchased by Ad Pile independent of any activity on this township. Uh, anybody who has the the money can go buy anything else that somebody has for sale. Uh but once once they have acquired the property they have to abide by our regulations and go
to a board our boards for approval and that's where it stands and is there's nothing else. Can you tell me there's nothing else we can or can can tell you about that that issue. >> Okay. And there's also I'm just going from what I just recently uncovered.
Well I won't say uncovered but uh was made aware of a data center a data research center. um between Adamsville Road and Woodside Lane. Is that uh am I accurate on that?
>> There is no formal application that the the township has designating that designated that property as an area needed redevelopment and there's a redevelopment plan that permits a couple of uses. Uh data center being one or senior housing would be another but no
uh specific plan has been presented yet. Okay. And finally, um the issue of lowincome housing. >> Um I I heard that there may be a development near the time to eat diner
serving that purpose. Is that accurate or is that uh >> there's multiple locations throughout the township. Mhm. >> We were obligated by the state to uh identify over the next 10 years a little over 400 new affordable housing units. >> Mhm.
>> Not our choice. Were required by the state. >> Understood. Understood. >> There's multiple locations throughout the town. >> Part of the state's process of of allocating over 8,000 units across each each township. Well, not every township. >> I understand it's mandated. Yeah. But we
we we were originally charged with 474, I believe. Uh and after due consideration, uh they they had houses being placed in the median of 22 and one in the reservoir on Chimney Rock Road. Uh our our current agreed to commitment
is 421 and and we are uh working to abide by that requirement, not because we want to. >> I understand, >> but we have to. >> Okay. >> All right. >> All right. Thank you for your time. >> You're welcome. >> Thank you. Ryana Isla,
32 Timberline Drive. And since we were doing introductions, I'm also running for the Democratic ticket as township council candidate along with Joan Guyger and Andrew Bucko who both spoke. Um we're also running against the mayor's uh sister me um Megan Mench. So just
wanted to put that out there. Thank you. >> I wanted to also um respond to the trucking depot concerns in the previous Ethicon facility. I don't know if anyone knows the company, but they currently have a facility in Katarit, New Jersey
that sees over 200 trucks going in and out during rush hour traffic in a much smaller facility than the big huge Ethicon facility we have. So imagine 200 trucks in Bridgewater by the high school as you're going to work, as you're
dropping off your kids at school. This is not the Bridgewater quality of life we signed up for when we moved here. It's been 37 years that a Democrat has been elected onto the township council, but if I win, it'll be the
first time a colored woman would also be elected. And I definitely do not want the quality of life here to have over 200 trucks go in and out by the high school where our children are attending. Thank you. >> Anyone else wishing to address the council?
Motion to close public input. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All those in favor? >> I, >> Mr. President. >> All right. We are closed for the public. >> Mr. President, sir, >> just want to point out that uh Mr. Bucko at one point at a council meeting here advocated for high uh affordable housing
to be constructed on the formal former Ethicon site. >> Okay. >> Mr. Mr. Council President, >> I have a I just have I have a brief comment. >> Mr. Zinsky made a comment that we all supported the pilot. However, I wasn't
here to vote and so technically uh I didn't vote on that project. However, I do want to make it clear that had I been here to vote, I would have supported the pilot. Mr. Zolinsky is the chairman of the Bridgewater Democratic Committee. So, I
presume his comments and some somehow represent that party standing. But I can tell Bridgewater residents to be assured that the pilot is smart for Bridgewater. The pilot is good for Bridgewwater. When the pilot takes place, that money,
that tax money that's been quoted back and forth, whatever that number is, that money goes 100% back to the Bridgewater taxpayer. We don't have to share that money with with the many other groups that would get that tax money. So if you don't do a pilot,
the tax money is split between the county and the board of education and all these other things, right? If we do a pilot, Bridgewater controls where that tax money goes. So that money comes back to the Bridgewater taxpayer. The pilot
is good for the Bridgewater taxpayer. Anyone that says otherwise either doesn't get it or they're trying to put political spin on a topic that is good for the Bridgewater taxpayer. Okay. >> I want that to be very clear.
>> Thank you, Mr. Pulo. Uh learned council has a comment on 10A and 10B. >> Certainly, council president. With 10A and 10B, we'll be looking for motions tonight to carry these to a date certain uh the next council meeting which is Grace. You will tell me click off my
calendar. is a week from Thursday. >> Yes. >> Um >> 16th. >> 16th. These these two matters will be carried to the 16th. Uh the uh public hearing and final action will take place in this room at the same time and no further notice will be required and the matters will be both carried to a date certain which is
>> I need a motion. I need a motion for both of them separately. >> I'll move the uh 10 A and 10B. >> Just 10 A. Let's do we have them one at a time. So 10 >> 10 A. >> All right. Second. >> Oh, okay. 10 A. motion >> and I second it. >> All those in favor of moving 10A to the
next meeting I >> I >> Okay. >> 10B >> 10B >> 10B I'll move to carry to the Y second. >> Okay. >> All in favor. >> All those in favor of carrying 10B to next meeting. I >> I council president you can move on to
item 12. >> Item 12 >> resolutions. >> Yes. Moving to 12 resolutions. I I'm going to use consent for a number of these. They're road jobs. Uh 12 I I will read them all. 12 A, 12 B, 12 C,
12 D, 12E, and uh 12F. Okay. Reading as follows. 12A. Authorizing the award of contracts to Paveright Incorporated, 40 Ryell Avenue, Bridgewater, New Jersey 0807 for the total amount not to exceed
$48,250 uh for the Hemlock Drive Outlet Road Repairs via the Somerset County Open-ended Cooperative Pricing System contract number CC-000028-24 to be funded through the 2024 road improvement program. Road Improvement
Capital Fund 12B authorizing change order number one and final change order increasing the contract price from 1,240,166.31 to1,247,14649 an increase of one uh.56% or $6,980.18.
Authorizing acceptance of the project, release of the performance bond and final payment to ADG Contracting uh Cor Trading as Crossroads Paving 386 South Street, Sweet 169, Newark, New Jersey 071105
07105 uh for the 2021-8 roadway improvement project which includes the entire lengths of Sherland Drive, Cornell Road, and Southbrook Drive and a portion of Fairfield Field Road funded through the 2024 Road
Improvement Capital Fund. C. Authorizing a change order number one and final change order increasing the contract price from $632,695.60 to $641,17.92. An increase of 1.32% or $8,322.32.
Authorizing acceptance of the project release of the performance bond and final payment to ADG Contracting Corporation Trading as Crossroads Paving 386 South Street, Sweet 169, Newark, New Jersey 07105 for the 2022
roadway preparation project which includes the entire length of Bellicone Street, Buckton Road, Central Avenue, Charles Street, Cheshire Road, Cole Street, Huon Road, Fairmont Mont Avenue, Recctor Road, Sherwood Road, Thomas
Street, Timberlane, and a portion of Blossom Drive funded through the 2024 Road Improvement Capital Fund. D. Authorizing change order number two, final change order increasing the amended contract price
from 1,177,439.91 to1,220,993.98. An overall increase of $42,654.17. Authorizing acceptance of the project release of the performance bond, acceptance of the maintenance bond. The final payment to ADG Contracting Corporation, trading as Crossroads
Paving, 386 South Street, Sweet 169, Newark, New Jersey 07105 for the Stonybrook Drive Improvement Project sections 1 and two, and the pedestrian pathway, which includes the entire length of Stony Brook Drive,
funded through the 2023 road improvement capital fund. E. Authorizing change order number one and final change order decreases the contract uh price from 1,263,133.80 80 to1,43,57158.
a decrease uh of 17 38% or 219,56223 authorizing acceptance of the project release of the performance bond, acceptance of the maintenance bond and final payment to ADG Contracting
Corporation Trading as Crossroads Paving 386 South Street, Sweet 169 Newark, New Jersey 07105 for the 2023-3 roadway way improvement project which includes the entire ranks of Carling Drive, Floral Drive, Farmer Road, Julio
Court, North Branch Road, and Juniper Lane, Country Club Road to North Branch, funded through the 2023 capital fund. F authorizing change order number one and final change order decreasing the contract price uh from $399,158.558
uh to $393,458 a decrease of 1.44% or $5,7553.50 50 cents authorizing acceptance of the project, release of the performance bond, acceptance of the maintenance bond, and final payment to Topline Construction Corporation, 225th Street,
Somerville, New Jersey 08876 for the 2024-6 roadway improvement project, which includes the entire length of Pine Way, Prime Road, uh, Davis Court, uh, Biddle Court, and Weaver Drive, funded through
the 2024 capital road fund. I'll move 12 A through F on consent. >> Okay. Could I could I could I have a second on that? >> I'll second it. Are there any discussion on those items? If not, a roll call, please.
>> Councilman Kersh, >> yes. >> Councilman Codella, >> yes. >> Councilman Pedroso, >> yes. >> Councilman Ring, >> yes. >> Gallas, >> yes. Uh G is a project resolution for preliminary engineering services for the Adamsville school possess pedestrian
safety project to Greenman pedest uh Peterson Incorporated 520 US Highway 22 suite 200 Bridgewater New Jersey 087 in the amount of 337,82140 funded through the 2025 Capital Road
Improvement Bond and as part of an NJ DOT safe routes to school grant uh for the funding year 2022 which amount is re uh reimburseable uh total through the DOT associated design assistment
program. >> So moved. >> Second, please. >> I'll second. >> Roll call, please. >> Councilman Kersh, >> yes. >> Councilman Codilla, >> yes. >> Pedroso, >> yes. >> Councilman Ring, >> yes. >> President, >> yes.
Okay. Uh we have we have completed all the regular work. We are now going to go to close session. There will be no formal action after after the close session. Uh and the public uh can stick around but there'll be no action. >> Council President, uh as discussed prior
to the meeting, we'll be amending this resolution to include the matter of Fleer versus Bridgewater Township. >> Okay. So noted. Uh be it resolved by the Bridgewater Township Council that this body will now convene on closed session to discuss the following. Public safety
uh spa ordinance litigation Warren Township and affordable h housing contract negotiation affordable housing and how would you like the next piece to >> Fleer versus Bridgewater Township. >> Glacier. Okay. Uh when and if matters discussed become public uh the full
information will be available to the public at the appropriate time. The public is excluded from said meeting and further notice is hereby dispenseed with all in accordance with sections 8 and 4A of the open public meetings act. Could I have a motion please to go to close session? >> Make the motion.
>> Second, please. >> Second it. >> All those in favor? I >> I Okay, ladies and gentlemen, we are in close session. Thank you very much. Uh the public must vacate. The door will be closed. At this point is to adjurnn. Could I
have a motion to adjurnn, please? >> I'll make that motion. Second. >> Second. All those in favor of adjournment, please signify by saying I. >> I. All right. We are journed.