WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=3f7GbsJHmW0

Part: 1

1
00:02:02.000 --> 00:06:41.400
Heat. Hey. Hey. Hey. There we Thank you. doo doo doo doo doo doo doo. Doo doo doo doo doo doo doo. Doo doo doo doo doo doo doo. Lower.

2
00:07:12.560 --> 00:07:28.479
Go ahead, Mayor. >> Good evening, everyone. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. >> To a roll call on a flag salute. Uh, madame clerk, please call the role. >> Councilwoman Peterson >> here. Councilwoman Scavage >> here. >> Councilman Zali >> here.

3
00:07:28.479 --> 00:07:45.680
>> Deputy Mayor Miseri >> here. Mayor Mika >> here. Please rise. 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

4
00:07:45.680 --> 00:08:06.639
justice for all. Adequate notice of this reorganization meeting was duly provided to the Rona Cedarbo Times in the store ledger on December 18th, 2025. filed with the township clerk and posted on the public bulletin board in the municipal lobby in

5
00:08:06.639 --> 00:08:27.919
accordance with the open public meetings act number two. >> Yes. So, mayor, why don't you join me down there for the uh presentation and comments by me? >> Any nice comments or

6
00:08:27.919 --> 00:08:56.880
>> I think so. Excuse me. >> Good evening everyone. Welcome to our reorganization meeting. Um it's a great honor for me as deputy mayor to uh say a few words to our outgoing mayor Michelle

7
00:08:56.880 --> 00:09:12.320
Migga. Michelle, your leadership this past year has meant so much to the council and to the entire community, but I'd like to take a moment now to properly recognize just how much you've given to Cedar Grove during your time as mayor. Michelle led with grace, with

8
00:09:12.320 --> 00:09:28.000
dedication, and genuine love for this town. Um, you've said it many times. You're a Cedar Grove lifer. Um, I know you referenced that with a lot of the many generations of Cedar Grove residents here and your commitment to our township is proof of that. You

9
00:09:28.000 --> 00:09:45.200
showed up not just for council meetings, official functions, but nearly every community event had to offer. Whether it was ribbon cutting, a town softball game, a senior lunchon, movie night, our residents knew that they could count on seeing the mayor there,

10
00:09:45.200 --> 00:10:00.480
engaged and present. That kind of commitment doesn't go unnoticed. It doesn't even go unappreciated. I just want you to know that. I also noticed that you did attend and actually participated in a line dancing fundraiser for the historical society.

11
00:10:00.480 --> 00:10:15.600
>> You've set the bar really high, which mean >> start practicing. >> Well, let me get to that point of my speech here. You set the bar really high what it means to serve the community. I'm grateful for your guidance as now I step into this role. For the sake of our

12
00:10:15.600 --> 00:10:33.120
residents, I promise not to line dance during my term as mayor. Seriously, on behalf of the entire governing body, on behalf of the residents of Cedar Grove, it's my honor to present you with this plaque and this is for your rec this is recognition for your outstanding service

13
00:10:33.120 --> 00:10:53.800
as mayor. You did an amazing job. Congratulations, Michelle. And uh we wish you the very best. Thank you. She's not going anywhere. She's on the council. Hey, >> you want to put back in here?

14
00:11:07.839 --> 00:11:23.920
Thank you, Deputy Mayor Sar, for those very kind words. I do really appreciate it. And for all the town council, thank you very much, everybody sitting up here. Thank you. Um, we're going to go on now to item three, extraordinary business of

15
00:11:23.920 --> 00:11:40.160
the township council. 3A, to consider resolution designating the mayor. May I have a motion to designate Deputy Mayor Miseri into the position of mayor? >> I have a motion.

16
00:11:40.160 --> 00:12:01.680
>> So moved. >> Have a second. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. Councilwoman Peterson? >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Scavage? >> Yes. >> Councilman Zali? >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Seri? >> Yes. >> Mayor Ma? >> Yes. WE'LL now have the administration of post of

17
00:12:01.680 --> 00:12:43.600
office by senator state senator Kristen Curado. I, Joseph, >> I, Joseph Meri, >> do sincerely profess >> do sincerely profess >> and swear >> and swear >> that I do >> that I do >> and will bear >> and will bear >> true faith and allegiance >> true faith and allegiance

18
00:12:43.600 --> 00:12:58.639
>> to the governments >> to the governments >> established in this state >> established in this state under the authority of the people. >> under the authority of the people. >> I do solemnly swear >> I do solemnly swear >> that I will support >> that I will support >> the Constitution of the United States of America. and the Constitution of the

19
00:12:58.639 --> 00:13:13.680
United States of America >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Const Constitution of the State of New Jersey. >> And that I will faithfully >> And that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly perform >> and justly perform >> all the duties >> all the duties >> of the office >> of the office

20
00:13:13.680 --> 00:13:39.920
>> of mayor of the township of Cedar Grove. >> The mayor of the township of Cedar Grove. >> According to the best of my ability and understanding >> according to the best of my ability and understanding. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> CONGRATULATIONS. MAYOR, you have to sign. >> Thanks. >> And and while the mayor's oh signing,

21
00:13:39.920 --> 00:13:56.399
sorry about that. I just want to echo his sentiments about Mayor Ma. She did an amazing job and she did set the bar really high. But Sar Gro is in really good hands. I have the pleasure of knowing now Mayor Miseri for many years back to our state county days. Um and he

22
00:13:56.399 --> 00:14:12.240
is a true public servant. Um he's dedicated, he is smart, he is thoughtful, and he will always put the residents of this town first. And um you are incredibly lucky to have everyone on the day that has the best interests of this town um and the residents in

23
00:14:12.240 --> 00:14:36.760
everything they do. It is our pleasure to represent them. It feels like home every time we come here. Um couldn't be prouder of everyone on the deis and I know you're going to do a wonderful job. Thank you. >> All right.

24
00:14:39.040 --> 00:14:55.120
I'm a little cramped under closer. >> Well, I'm a little too cramped. All right. Wow. Moving along. This is good. Last year went a little longer, I feel like. So, we're doing well. Not that's not a

25
00:14:55.120 --> 00:15:10.399
disparagement to our outgoing mayor. We had a lot of swearing in last year, so it was it was good. Anyway, I'm very honored to serve Cedar Row as mayor for my second term. Now, I thank my council colleagues for having faith in me and

26
00:15:10.399 --> 00:15:25.839
for all their support. I want to take a moment um to thank Senator Curado for administering my oath of office today. Senator, it means a great deal to me to have you here with us. You come here every year for our reorganization meeting. We appreciate it. Those of us

27
00:15:25.839 --> 00:15:40.959
who live in District 40 know how hard you work on our behalf. Whether it's fighting for our veterans, protecting families, or preserving our open space, you've never stopped putting the district first. You always answer the phone, you show up, and you fight for us

28
00:15:40.959 --> 00:15:57.199
in Trenton every single day. Um, you also never miss a township event. I think it could be a competition between you and Michelle Omega because you're always here and we appreciate it. On behalf of everyone here, thank you for your service, your dedication, and standing with me today as I begin this

29
00:15:57.199 --> 00:16:12.240
new chapter. We're very lucky to have you representing us. I also wanted to acknowledge and thank our District 40 team, Assemblyman Christa Phillips and Al Baras. Again, they're here every year. They support us. They attend all of our events as well. Um, and just like

30
00:16:12.240 --> 00:16:28.000
the senator, they're strong advocates for our residents. They're always available, accessible, and never miss an important Cedar Grove event. They work tirelessly to put the constituents first. Each member of our district 40 team takes real pride in serving the

31
00:16:28.000 --> 00:16:44.480
people they represent. As a council member, I've heard directly from the residents who've benefited greatly from the constituent services our District 40 team provides. We each thank you. each. Thank you for being here and for always working hard for our residents. Now, I want to take a

32
00:16:44.480 --> 00:17:01.040
moment and acknowledge and thank my family who made it possible for me to be here today. First, uh my mom who's in the front row. Um she's here. She wouldn't have missed this swearing in for anything. Thank you for always supporting me and pushing me

33
00:17:01.040 --> 00:17:17.199
to do better. Uh I would not be here without your continued support. I know dad is looking down and is proud to see me take the oath for mayor for a second term. To my sister Enza who is out of state unfortunately could not be here although she's always um she's always a

34
00:17:17.199 --> 00:17:33.280
big supporter and never missed a life event of mine. Um I I know that if she could be here she would. And I believe she's watching on YouTube. So if you're watching this is a shout out to you. I appreciate everything you do for us and uh always looking out for me. Thank you.

35
00:17:33.280 --> 00:17:47.280
to my in-laws, my father-in-law, and my mother-in-law who are here with us tonight. Uh my brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws couldn't make it. Uh thank you for always being here for me, especially being a part of these special occasions like today. I know it meant uh

36
00:17:47.280 --> 00:18:05.600
traveling far um on a Wednesday night to be here in Cedar Grove and that means the world to me. To my cousins, aunts, uncles, those who could be here, I see a few of you here. Two of you came in a little bit late, but you made it. I appreciate it. Um, but thank you. Thank

37
00:18:05.600 --> 00:18:21.360
you for uh thank you for being here. Without the support of my family, I wouldn't have the ability to serve as a council member and as mayor. To my immediate family, my biggest supporters, to my wife, Josephine, I can't express how grateful I am that you've been by my

38
00:18:21.360 --> 00:18:38.480
side since we were kids. Uh, you've always encouraged me and kept me focused. Without your support, there's no way I could be serving our township while also managing a law practice. Uh, sometimes work life balance seems impossible to navigate, but your support gets me through it. I'm forever grateful

39
00:18:38.480 --> 00:18:55.120
and I love you very much. To our sons, Matthew, Michael, the assemblyman remembers. You started off this tall when I first got sworn in in Little Falls. You've been to every swearing in since you were five and four years old. You never missed an occasion, and you w

40
00:18:55.120 --> 00:19:10.240
you witnessed firsthand the importance of public service. um as well as the sacrifices that are involved. I appreciate you both making your own sacrifices so that I'm able to serve our community. We're both very proud of you. We love you very much and thank you for

41
00:19:10.240 --> 00:19:26.240
everything that you do. Now, for my council family, we have a dynamic group of council members as the senator has mentioned earlier. They're always looking to do what's best for this town. Um we work well together. Um to our outgoing mayor,

42
00:19:26.240 --> 00:19:41.280
Michelle Migga, again, I wanted to thank you on behalf of the entire council for the remarkable leadership during your term as mayor. I was privileged to serve as your deputy mayor, and as I stated earlier, Michelle did an exceptional job

43
00:19:41.280 --> 00:19:57.919
as a public servant. You've worked hard this past year, and I will certainly call upon you uh for your continued guidance and support during my tenure as mayor. I would also like to acknowledge and congratulate our new deputy mayor soon to be he's next on the agenda. Uh John

44
00:19:57.919 --> 00:20:15.919
Zazali. I'm looking forward to working side by side with you, John. Um I know that you pay tremendous attention to detail, you work hard, and you provide valuable insight to our council. So, I'm I'm really looking forward to this year. >> Thank you. Um, Councilwoman Peterson,

45
00:20:15.919 --> 00:20:31.520
your dedication, your public service, and commitment to the township of Cedar Grove is truly remarkable. Another lifer. Um, and she doesn't plan on ever leaving, and she hopes her kids stay here, too. We appreciate all that you do for the township and the governing body.

46
00:20:31.520 --> 00:20:47.200
Thank you for your continued service to the community. I look forward to working with you this year, Councilwoman Scavage. Your time management and your ability to be in multiple places while wearing multiple hats is extraordinary.

47
00:20:47.200 --> 00:21:02.960
You're an amazing member of this team and you've made tremendous contributions to the governing body. I'm really excited about another year where we're all working together and your continued contributions to the team. And now for the township employees. On behalf of the

48
00:21:02.960 --> 00:21:18.000
governing body, I would like to recognize the exceptional township employees and professionals, all of whom are led by our township manager, Joseph Zeli. I want to especially thank Joe for his leadership and his loyalty to the residents of Cedar Grove. During my

49
00:21:18.000 --> 00:21:34.080
first term as mayor, Joe was hired to replace Tom Tucci, who retired after serving the count serving Cedar Grove for over 30 years. I referred to Joe as our franchise quarterback that year and over the last several years he's delivered. Um, prior to Joe taking the

50
00:21:34.080 --> 00:21:51.600
job, Mr. Tucci devoted his career to ensuring that our residents have the best possible community in which to raise their families. Joe has continued those efforts through hard work and dedication to the employees and the residents of our township. As a result, the Cedar Grove continues

51
00:21:51.600 --> 00:22:07.520
to flourish under his leadership, and we continue to provide great services while keeping our taxes low and maintaining a strong financial position. Every great leader has a great team that supports them. Here, we have an excellent team, starting with our

52
00:22:07.520 --> 00:22:24.320
township clerk, Dale Ford. Dale, just like uh Joe, you were hired during my first term as mayor and you also replaced someone that was retiring who had 30 plus years of experience. That was Kathy Stuts. I just want to say this year, no one's

53
00:22:24.320 --> 00:22:40.960
retiring. I can't do that again as my as a mayor. But no, it it was a tremendous year. Um Dale, you did a outstanding job for us. On a serious note, uh Dale works hard for Cedar Grove. She's been the liaison for the council, has done an excellent

54
00:22:40.960 --> 00:22:58.559
job. She's always available to us. She emails us during the weekend. She calls us. She makes sure we have everything and we notice and we appreciate it very much. Dale, >> she wrote me a little note for today not to forget to acknowledge my wife and kids cuz last year, of course, I did.

55
00:22:58.559 --> 00:23:15.760
That's how important Dale is to us all. I also want to take this opportunity to uh thank our dedicated professionals including our town attorney Dan Lagana. Um Dan is an incredible attorney, very knowledgeable, gives great counsel to

56
00:23:15.760 --> 00:23:32.159
all of us and is always looking out for the best interest of this town. So Dan, thank you very much for that. Appreciate it. Um and all the department heads. I see some of you here. I'm not going to name all of you because the speech is going to go on and on and on, but we really really appreciate everything that

57
00:23:32.159 --> 00:23:48.799
you do. Without your hard work, Joe would not be the success that he is managing this town. So, we appreciate it. Um, all the employees, um, DPW, their staff, everyone that makes the town look so beautiful. Um, and of course, our police department, our first

58
00:23:48.799 --> 00:24:06.480
responders, I see our chief in the back. um they're the best in the state and they they make the they make the residents and the issues concerning our residents in town their top priority. They always care about what's in the best interest of our residents and we thank you very much for that.

59
00:24:06.480 --> 00:24:21.840
I'd like to also thank all of our volunteers. This town is made up of volunteers, not just us on the council. We are volunteers, but we have members of the community that sit on boards, committees, commissions. We have

60
00:24:21.840 --> 00:24:37.679
volunteer organizations. Without the volunteers, we wouldn't be the success that we are. They dedicate their time. They volunteer their time. They provide services uh for our residents that we're not able to do. So, we thank them for all their hard work.

61
00:24:37.679 --> 00:24:53.760
And looking back, there's a lot to be proud of, a lot for this council to be proud of. We've have we have a brand new firehouse at North End that opened last year. We've renovated the library. Over $200,000 in improvements. The majority of that money came from donations, not

62
00:24:53.760 --> 00:25:10.080
from taxpayer money, which is incredible. We've upgraded our recreational facilities, including the opening of our new playground that just we just had the ribbon cutting a few weeks ago. That was a $750,000 uh NJ D grant that funded that. And it's

63
00:25:10.080 --> 00:25:26.159
a beautiful facility. I mean, the turnout was incredible. Um, of course, our district 40 team was there for the ribbon cutting. Um, we also reurfed Panther Park probably a couple couple of years earlier than what's normal. And the reason for that is anybody that

64
00:25:26.159 --> 00:25:43.360
drives past Panther Park could see how many of our residents use the park, whether working, walking around the track, running, participating, kids are playing on the track on on the field. It It's just overly used and we're proud of that. because it's it's really a focal

65
00:25:43.360 --> 00:25:59.760
point for our community. So, we had to retur it and it looks beautiful. They did a tremendous job and um and the manager uh Joseph Kelly during that period we didn't skip a beat. It was it was done at the right time. It was, you know, we didn't really have too much uh

66
00:25:59.760 --> 00:26:15.279
lost. You know, people were still able to enjoy uh the facilities. So, we did a tremendous job and I'm very proud of that. We've continued, this is a big one for our town. We've continued a massive paving operation and we have

67
00:26:15.279 --> 00:26:32.720
successfully paved 75 township streets curb to curb through a credit based system we negotiated with P PSEG. Um by next year we will have paved more than half of our township streets. Um,

68
00:26:32.720 --> 00:26:49.600
and we're looking at the majority of those funds, Mr. Z. Kelly, would you say a lot of that was through our negotiations with PCA? >> Half and half. >> Half and half. >> Yeah. We made a uh linear footage agreement. So, did not cost the township

69
00:26:49.600 --> 00:27:05.840
would would have if we did not reach that agreement. >> So, we this is a project. I mean, prior to Joe and Mr. Tuji, we we'd always invest on our infrastructure and we would have a schedule of repaving streets every single year and we've continued that during this process when

70
00:27:05.840 --> 00:27:22.880
Joe took over. But now we've had the opportunity with our negotiations with PSEG that now we have more than half of the town has been paved, which is an amazing amazing accomplishment for Cedar Grove. Um, and it just makes the community, you know, much better. Uh,

71
00:27:22.880 --> 00:27:38.640
township is moving forward. We we want to continue to improve infrastructure. We want to continue to provide the best services for our residents while also continuing to be fiscally responsible and keeping our taxes low. That's something that, you know, we pride ourselves on the council and Joe has

72
00:27:38.640 --> 00:27:55.600
that mentality as the manager and we're going to continue to do that. We have approved funding in our capital budget that will continue to maintain the Pacman River to reduce the risk of flooding for our residents. That's a top priority. We also want to work on improving our facilities recreation so all the residents can enjoy uh the

73
00:27:55.600 --> 00:28:10.880
beautiful um facilities that we have in Cedar Grove. So in closing, as your mayor, I will do my part to lead. I will continue to work with our team and ensure that we continue to provide the best services for our residents. I want to personally

74
00:28:10.880 --> 00:28:43.679
thank everybody again for being here uh for our reorganization meeting. On behalf of my colleagues on the council, I want to wish everybody a safe, healthy, and enjoyable sovereign. Thank you everybody. >> Okay. >> All right, John. Next up.

75
00:28:43.679 --> 00:29:00.480
>> Oh, was that me? You ready? We're ready to flip this. >> Wow. Thank you. >> All right, let's let's move on. I'll take over the meeting. >> Let's see. We are >> 3B. >> 3B

76
00:29:00.480 --> 00:29:16.240
to consider resolution designating deputy mayor. May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Councilwoman Mig here. >> Councilwoman Peterson? Yes. >> Councilwoman Scavage. >> Yes.

77
00:29:16.240 --> 00:30:08.960
>> Councilman Zazali. >> Yes. >> Mayor Miseri. >> Yes. All right. John. Okay. Y turn everyone can see you. >> Okay. You mind if I say a few words

78
00:30:08.960 --> 00:30:24.399
before? >> Sure. >> Okay. >> Please bear with me. Yes, of course. I felt I had to say something. Um, Deputy Mayor Miss Zazali, excuse me, Deputy Mayor Zazali, um, I just wanted you to know that this is a profound honor for

79
00:30:24.399 --> 00:30:39.039
me to administer your oath of office today. If memory serves me correctly, each time you came up, you asked me to administer your oath of office. And I just wanted to say that I'm grateful that you continue to trust me to share in this milestone in your life, a new

80
00:30:39.039 --> 00:30:55.120
chapter in your book. So with that, I wish you successful and very impactful term as a deputy mayor. It means a lot to me. Now if you please please place your left hand on the Bible, raise your right hand

81
00:30:55.120 --> 00:31:11.760
and repeat after me. I, John Asali, >> I, John Asali, >> do sincerely profess and swear >> do sincerely profess and swear >> that I do and will >> that I do and will >> bear true faith and allegiance bear true faith and allegiance

82
00:31:11.760 --> 00:31:27.840
>> to the government established >> to the government established >> in this state >> in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> I do solemnly swear >> I do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States of America >> that I will support the Constitution of

83
00:31:27.840 --> 00:31:43.440
the United States of America >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will faithfully >> and that I will faithfully >> and partially >> impartially >> and justly perform perform >> and justly perform >> all the duties of

84
00:31:43.440 --> 00:31:59.200
>> all the duties of >> the office of deputy mayor of the township of Cedar Grove >> the office of deputy mayor of the township of Cedar Grove >> according to the best of my abilities >> according to the best of my abilities >> and understanding >> and understanding >> so help me God >> so help me God

85
00:31:59.200 --> 00:32:55.919
>> CONGRATULATIONS and then give your speech one cop. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> Congratulations. Thanks for Christopher. So, good evening. Um, Senator Curado,

86
00:32:55.919 --> 00:33:11.440
Assemblyman Phillips, Assemblyman Borless, Mayor Miseri, the council, Mr. Zakelli, Dale, Mr. Lagana, everybody here, the residents of Cedar Grove. Um,

87
00:33:11.440 --> 00:33:28.320
so um, tort to the district representatives, as um, Mayor Miseri mentioned, they are at everything. They support everything. Um, I did not coordinate with Mayor Miseri, but I had the same comment, so it's it's an honest

88
00:33:28.320 --> 00:33:45.039
opinion. Um, so we we appreciate everything you do. Um, de Mayor Migga, um, I I think Mayor Miseri may have hacked my computer because I wrote about how you attended everything without

89
00:33:45.039 --> 00:34:01.679
without fail. Um, and you accepted all the challenges of being mayor. Um, you rose to the occasion and we're lucky to have you. So, thank you. Um, Mayor Miseri, you didn't like this part. Thank you.

90
00:34:01.679 --> 00:34:20.560
Um, congratulations. Uh, I look forward to working with you. Uh, you have a very um, I wrote it down. Hold on. You have a very practical approach at problem solving and it's often very helpful uh, in life, but in in particular with the

91
00:34:20.560 --> 00:34:35.760
council. So, um, we we appreciate that and congratulations to the council. Sorry, you're cutting my shoulder. uh to to the council. Uh thank you for this honor. Thank you for supporting me. Uh it's a pleasure to

92
00:34:35.760 --> 00:35:05.599
work with you and I admire excuse me um I admire everything you do for the township Mr. Zeli Miss Ford and Mr. Lagana. Your tireless efforts to support the council and serve the residents do not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated.

93
00:35:05.599 --> 00:35:22.320
Your oversight of the township affairs and legal matters is a great value to Cedar Grove. I have learned that if we can survive if we can survive budget season and snowfalls, your continued um with your continued help, we can survive just

94
00:35:22.320 --> 00:35:38.560
about anything. So, uh, to the residents of, uh, to to Cedar Grove, it's an honor for me to serve as your deputy mayor. Um, I wanted you to know that, uh, that as your deputy mayor along with the mayor,

95
00:35:38.560 --> 00:35:53.359
the council, the township staff, um, we're going to we're going to focus on improving Cedar Grove, and we're going to do it working with with you. um were uh as your deputy mayor, I I'll

96
00:35:53.359 --> 00:36:09.680
remain um approachable, accessible um and serving with the council and staff uh that comes together with the residents and put Cedar Grove first. Um an an integral part of a strong

97
00:36:09.680 --> 00:36:26.320
community are the departments uh that work the day and night to keep us safe and and show up when we need the help. Um, I wanted to acknowledge the departments that keep Cedar Grove safe. Uh, the their service gives residents

98
00:36:26.320 --> 00:36:44.280
the reassurance and security to feel to feel at ease and safe in their homes. Thank you to the Cedar Grove Police Department, the Cedar Grove Fire Department, Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue, Montlair Ambulance and Rescue, and our public works department for everything that you do.

99
00:36:50.400 --> 00:37:21.839
Um, I bet this at the end cuz the hard part to my family, thank you um for for your support and what you do. >> It's okay. >> No, I'm not crying. I'm just getting choked up. >> Okay. Um, in

100
00:37:21.839 --> 00:37:36.800
in closing, I just wanted to to for everyone to remember that great uh great communities aren't uh just with elected officials. It's elected officials uh working along with the residents. So,

101
00:37:36.800 --> 00:38:06.560
THANK YOU Good job, John. All right, moving along. 3C comments from our council members. We'll start with uh Council Member Peterson. >> Good evening, Mayor. >> Good evening. Um, just for the uh sake

102
00:38:06.560 --> 00:38:22.560
of time, does our LD40 people need to sit? I'm a little bit of a time. >> We're going to take pictures right after comments from >> I'm sorry. I just have like time anxiety and I'm like, oh, it's 6:30 and they have to go because in line with everything that we said, they are going

103
00:38:22.560 --> 00:38:36.560
to the parade in Fairfield. God bless our souls in this heat. So anyway, I was like, oh. Anyway, not to be redundant, sometimes I feel redundant every year, but I echo what the mayor said and what the deputy mayor said, and I I do just

104
00:38:36.560 --> 00:38:52.640
have to say, Michelle, I I can't you just not only did you go to every event, you went to it enthusiastically, but you were like psyched, you know, and I just I just really really admired you beyond

105
00:38:52.640 --> 00:39:08.640
words. So, you did a fabulous job and I wish the mayor and the deputy mayor much success and councilwoman always a pleasure working with you. Looking forward to the next year with all of you. So, thanks very much. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome, >> Michelle. >> Well, I always have words.

106
00:39:08.640 --> 00:39:25.599
>> Yes. That's why you're next. >> Thank you, mayor. The only part of my report that I have today is to say a big thank you. Thank you to everyone up here who had the confidence in me to be the mayor of the township of Cedar Grove. This is the very town that I grew up in.

107
00:39:25.599 --> 00:39:42.160
And I support with the support of everyone up here, our uh state legislators, the council, the manager, the clerk, and our attorney along with the voters that elected me. I thank you. I did have a very busy year, but it was

108
00:39:42.160 --> 00:39:59.040
fun. I know I'm crazy. I know. I know. It was fun. I met a lot of wonderful people of all ages and different interests along the way. There are so many wonderful people in this town and I appreciate them all. It is conversations with the people of this town that helped

109
00:39:59.040 --> 00:40:15.520
to bring us, not just me but all of us up here, new ideas to help keep moving this town forward to keep this town as great as it is. I wish Mayor Miseri and Deputy Mayor Zali all the best in the upcoming year. I'm sure they're going to

110
00:40:15.520 --> 00:40:32.079
do a wonderful job and Cedar Grove is in good hands. Councilwoman Peterson, Councilwoman, Wait, Scapage. Did I say it right? We're just >> I'm taking over. >> Can your name be said right now? Thank you very much for all you ladies have

111
00:40:32.079 --> 00:40:47.200
done for me. You know, you're you're you're very good to me. Thank you. And I hope everyone has a great summer. I'll have more at the next meeting. Jo, >> Councilwoman. Um, thank you, Mayor Miseri. Um, congratulations to you and

112
00:40:47.200 --> 00:41:02.880
Deputy Mayor Zazali. Um, I know you will both do a wonderful job, but um, just some inside information on these two. I've counted and there are 17 cough drops between the two of them. >> I'm not kidding. That's not an exaggeration.

113
00:41:02.880 --> 00:41:19.760
>> So, we need to keep these guys healthy. Um, and there's always a cough drop within arms reach. So, when I was when they uh Joe asked me who I wanted to sit by, I was like, "Well, John and Joe both have cough drops." So, um but all seriousness, um it's a

114
00:41:19.760 --> 00:41:35.040
fantastic team. We're very lucky to work together. Um because we all have the same goal, which is to keep Cedar Grove affordable, um and to control the development that's happening and keep that under control here in town. Um we

115
00:41:35.040 --> 00:41:51.440
we all love living here. I am not a a lifer. I'm I'm a a transplant from Jersey City. Um so to me, Cedar Grove is my dream. It's what my family and I have worked hard to achieve was to live here. Um and I'm I'm very proud to to serve

116
00:41:51.440 --> 00:42:08.880
this community. Um along with my council colleagues. Um and just one one quick note on Michelle Migga. Um my daughter uh adores her and she is she's eight and plays softball. And uh Michelle said, "You know, let me know when they're playing and I'll I'll stop by."

117
00:42:08.880 --> 00:42:24.240
Michelle's version of stop by is stay for 90 minutes and and watch almost the whole game in in blistering heat while poor Tom and uh the rest of the family were probably home waiting for dinner. But >> that's that's the type of of leader

118
00:42:24.240 --> 00:42:39.839
Michelle Amigga is. And I I'm I'm so proud to have watched her um really flourish in that role. Um, and it really just set a a great example um to everyone in in Cedar Row, but especially the the young people and and

119
00:42:39.839 --> 00:42:55.520
especially little girls who who things like that really matter. So, thank you for doing that for us. Thank you for everything you've done for the community and um I look forward to serving with you for a few more years up here. So, >> um that's all. Thank you guys. >> Thank you, Councilwoman. All right.

120
00:42:55.520 --> 00:43:25.040
Before we go to the consent agenda, why don't we take pictures with the >> district 40 because they have to go to another. >> We're not walking in a parade like this. >> Pass out here. >> Stand here. >> Well, these guys are sick. Let's say

121
00:43:25.040 --> 00:43:56.920
I'll just eat them at every meeting. >> How we want to do this? >> Yeah. There you go. Now it's >> like junior high. >> All right. Bring it in. There you go.

122
00:43:58.640 --> 00:45:11.160
>> Perfect. >> Thank you. Yeah. Can we take >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Happy walking. >> Yes. Thank you, mayor. >> Have a great job.

123
00:45:24.720 --> 00:45:43.119
All right, moving along on the agenda. We'll go to item four, consent agenda. May I have a motion um to approve consent agenda 4 A through 4 N. Is there a motion?

124
00:45:43.119 --> 00:45:59.599
>> So moved. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Councilwoman Ma, >> yes. Councilwoman Peterson, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Scavage, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Zazali, >> yes. >> Mayor Missi, >> yes. Item five, new business to consider

125
00:45:59.599 --> 00:46:16.240
resolution authorizing an award of emergency contact contract for repair of a sinkhole and collapsed and failed retaining wall on the bank of Taylor's Brook. Um, Mr. Zelli. >> Yes, Mayor. As the council and the public's aware, we usually don't take

126
00:46:16.240 --> 00:46:33.040
business at the reorg meeting. However, this is a circumstance that does warrant that. Last Tuesday, we were informed that there was a 12-oot sinkhole on the bank of the Taylor's Brook, which was a tributary of the Pecman River outside of Town Hall, adjacent to the driveway off of Boutton Road. Uh the engineer went

127
00:46:33.040 --> 00:46:50.079
out there, I went out there, um and the sinkhole is causing the fieldstone retaining wall to collapse. Uh the engineer identified three specific concerns if this wall were to collapse. One being a damning effect of the bridge and upstream properties should there be

128
00:46:50.079 --> 00:47:04.480
significant water flow. Two, the collapse of the driveway of the municipal building going into the um parking lot. And the most important, uh there's a very large telephone pole there with three transformers and all of our public safety communication

129
00:47:04.480 --> 00:47:20.560
um for police, fire, EMS, 911, as well as the um telephone lines to the township. If that pole were to fall and collapse, we'd have no communications in and out of the building. She certified it as an emergency. Um I spoke about it with council uh with our CFO and with

130
00:47:20.560 --> 00:47:36.880
our auditor. Uh we are going to issue an emergency contract to get this repaired quickly. Um my hopes is that if the council considers this this evening, uh they will be out here as early as tomorrow or next week depending on their availability to get this fixed and repaired hopefully before the next

131
00:47:36.880 --> 00:47:52.800
council meeting. >> Thank you, Mr. Kelly. Any anybody have any questions or further discussion on this? All right. Can I get a motion? >> So moved, Mayor. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Councilwoman Mig. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Peterson?

132
00:47:52.800 --> 00:48:09.359
>> Yes. >> Councilwoman Scavage? >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Zazali? >> Yes. >> Mayor Meri? >> Yes. Item six, public comment. Anyone from the public wishing to be heard? This is your opportunity to come up. Seeing none, I'll close that portion of

133
00:48:09.359 --> 00:48:26.000
the meeting. Item seven, our next meeting date, uh, next public council meeting is scheduled for July 13th, >> and that's at regular time, 7 o'clock. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay.

134
00:48:26.000 --> 00:48:42.480
We don't have an executive session today. Well, this is easy. We have to adjourn already. Wow. This is going to be my easiest meeting of the year. >> All right. So, um, can I get a motion to adjourn?

135
00:48:42.480 --> 00:48:56.880
>> Sorry. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Councilwoman Miga? >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Peterson? >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Scavage? >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Zali? >> Yes. >> Mayor M? >> Yes. Thank you everybody. We appreciate it. That's

136
00:48:56.880 --> 00:50:41.079
>> it. Heat. Heat. Heat. Hey. Hey. Hey. Stingray music. All good vibes.