The May 18th, 2026 regular session meeting of the Cinnamonson Township Committee is now called to order. Everyone, please rise and join me in saluting the flag. 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. I think it's a new chair. >> Yes, I've said that before. This meeting is being held in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, public law 1975, chapter 231. Note of this meeting
Notice of this meeting was published in the Burlington County Times and the Carrier Post on January 9th, 2026. The meeting agenda was posted on the township website on Friday, May 15th, and copies of the agenda are available in the back of the room. Roll call, please. Madam Secretary.
>> Yes, Mayor. Mr. Cond >> here. >> Mr. Miguel >> here. >> Dr. Ken Walls >> here. >> Deputy Mayor Se >> here. >> Mayor Horner >> here. >> Thank you. >> Moving on to the committee liaison reports. Committee member, administration and veterans affairs,
please. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um, the township committee is hosting a Memorial Day ceremony on Friday, May 22nd at 5:00 p.m. in front of the municipal building, municipal building right here. Uh the
ceremony will feature uh comments from committee members, a guest speaker, and participation of various community groups. This ceremony is coordinated each year to honor brave men and women who have fought and made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our country.
We encourage everyone to attend. Um the hometown heroes program is a banner program to honor Cinnamonson residents who have served in the military. Banners will initially be placed on light poles around Memorial Park around the Memorial Park walking
path. To apply to have a banner in Memorial Park, go to the cinnamonsonj.org website, click on the how do I link at the top of the page, then scroll down to the hometown heroes link on the menu, and there you will find the application.
Um, and I also have some periodic reminders that I like to to uh announce a couple times a year. That being uh on the website we have a link to report a concern uh which would be u for any non-emergency issue that would require
assistance from the town and from a township department. There's also an app for this as well. It's go. It's called Gov Alert and can be downloaded for iOS and Android. And the links are also right on the index page, the first page of the uh township website. And lastly,
um the uh emergency management folks of the township and the state um held an information session last month and one of the things they mentioned was
that the township to helpful to help um keep residents informed uses the NIXL system. Currently about 4,000 people have subscribed to the service. And if you wish to subscribe, there are multiple ways to do it. You can go to the
nixel.com website and sign up. But the easiest way, and the way I did it, because I will take the easiest way, is to text the zip code to 888777. So, if you send a text message to 888777
with the only thing in that message being our zip code 08077, it will sign your phone up for NIXL alerts. And anytime the township has um um uh information, a road closed or
something that the police would need to disseminate to the to the residents or uh once a month we do the Cinnamonson newsletter which goes on the website um goes on the Facebook page and it's also um spread through the NIXL alerts. So uh
it's helpful. We have 18,000 people in Cinnamonson and 4,000 of them are signed up for Nixl. So, it would be nice to see that number go up. Uh, and that is all I have for this evening, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. Committee member McIll, public safety. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Uh, April stats
are as follows. Total in incidents responded to 3,489. Total cases pulled was 95. Total arrests made 47. Total property checks made were uh 1,188,
excuse me. Uh total motor vehicle stops 835. Total motor vehicle summones 504. Total DWI arrest was uh nine. Total MVAs 52. Of those MVAs, the number
with injuries is six, resulting in 12 injuries. Morgan Cemetery, 1100 Simmonson Avenue. 54 property checks, all done. All property checks, 54 incidents. Approved fire arm permits, 18
uh denied and withdrawn firearm permits, two approved concealed carry permits was eight. Uh denied concealed permit carries, zero. Total handicaps permits issued, seven. Uh like uh Paul says, um
the township uses NIXL to notify residents of important announcements, including public safety issues such as traffic closures. Currently, like he said, there's at least uh four or 5,000 residents that are currently registered. Residents are highly encouraged to
register to receive these important messages by visiting nixl.com. Uh the townships is sponsoring a ARP a AARP drive safety course scheduled for July 25th. The class is open to anyone
who 18 years of age and older who possesses a driver's license. Residents who take this class will be eligible for a minimum 5% discount on their car insurance as well as the forgiveness of two points addressed for any moving
violations. Not later on. You have two points now. We'll take them off. Um, let me see. Get down here. Bike safety. I can't find that one. Um, residents are reminded that a new bike e
bike uh safety laws go into effect on July 19th of this year. In order to make students and parents aware of the provisions of the new law, the police department has taken the following steps to educate the public. One, posting information on the department's Facebook
page. Two, information was sent to the parents through the township's school township school student/parent portal. And three, arranging for officers to speak to kids at the schools. traffic issues. Uh, as recently as recently as
as Yeah, sorry. As recently reported on the department's Facebook post a week ago, citizens are encouraged to report any traffic related issues by emailing support service at supportson police.org.
Once an effort is a report is made, it will be reviewed and a determination will be made whether the complaint is something that can be investigated, mitigated, etc. If the issue is with speeding, the traffic counter will be placed on the roadway for a week. The
traffic counter will give us data as to how many vehicles travel on the road, the average speed, best times to enforce speed issues, if there is any, as well as any other information. So far, the traffic counter has been on
the following roadways and have found the following average speeds. Wayne Drive 29 miles an hour. Chest Hill Drive 24 miles an hour. Hunter Street 19 miles an hour. Land
Street by Belleview 17 miles an hour and New Albony Road 34 miles an hour. After analyzing the speed studies on these roads, the department has concluded that all the roads except New Albony Road do not have a speed issue with discernable
times time periods for violators. New Albony Road on the other hand showed the best times for speed enforcement are in the evening during the times of during the times of 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. As
such, units will be uh concentrating enforcement on New Albony Road during these times. In the next few weeks, the count will be placed on the following roads: Lenola, Thomas Avenue, Pomona Road, and Branch Pike.
In light of recent incidents and carnivals and other events in the area, the police department and the St. Charles Carnival representatives are working proactively to ensure safety of the residents and patrons at this year's carnival, which begins
June 8th. Residents are encouraged to remain attentive, travel in groups, and report any concerns to carnival personnel, a police officer, or call 911. That concludes my report, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. Committee Member Dr. Taylor Walls,
Health and Senior Services. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Good evening. The Health and Senior Services Committee remains committed to supporting the full breadth of our community by connecting residents with meaningful resources, programs, and services that promote overall well-being. At the center of
this work is the understanding that health extends beyond medical care alone, includes access, education, advocacy, connection, and the strength of the community around us. Since our last report, we are proud we were proud to host a successful health and wellness forum featuring Dr. Ho at Thomas
Jefferson University where residents engaged in discussions in several important healthcare topics, including social determinance of health, integrative care, navigating medical appointments more effectively, and identifying credible sources of health information in an increasingly complex
digital landscape. The feedback from attendees reinforced the importance of creating spaces where resident residents can ask questions, access reliable information, and feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their families. As we continue developing programming, the committee remains focused on aligning future workshops and
resources with the involving needs of the community. Over the next month, the committee will the committee will focus on strengthening communication and outreach efforts by improving how we share information, expanding digital resource sharing, and identifying additional ways to connect residents with programs and services. We also we
are also finalizing the slate of presenters and workshops planned for the remainder of the year to ensure continued educational and practical programming for residents. In addition, we continue to expand our community resource network by building relationships with local and neighboring businesses and organizations that
provide valuable services to township residents. Our focus is not only to provide individual events and resources, but to build sustainable partnerships and communication channels residents can rely on long term. We also look forward to continue collab collaboration with Burlington County to help bring
additional resources and support opportunities directly to the community. The committee will continue evaluating resident feedback and engagement trends to help guide future priorities and ensure our efforts remain responsive and impactful. Finally, I want to thank the residents, volunteers, businesses, and
community partners who continue to contribute ideas, support, and participation. Thank you. That is my report. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. Deputy Mayor Seagrist, public works and finance. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. for public works. Public works department personnel are currently collecting brush in section
three. Please be reminded that curbside brush collection is for residential properties only and contractors are not permitted to place brush at the curb. The forklanding bridge forklanding road bridge was closed earlier today by
Burlington County so they can complete their planned bridge replacement project. Estimated time frame of construction is one year. The reconstructed bridge will remain a single lane structure carrying two-way
alternating traffic and a traffic signal system. This will be installed at both approaches to regulate traffic across the bridge. For additional information, contact Burlington County Roads and Bridges at 69726
73 0. And for finance, tonight we will have the public hearing for the 2026 budget. As the liaison to finance, I just want to take a moment to recognize and appreciate the budget
process this year. In addition to our regular review process, we held anformational budget session that provided residents with an opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and engage directly with the finance committee. I thought it was very
productive with a lot of very good interaction. I also personally reviewed the budget with each individual member of the township committee. And after those discussions, there were no outstanding questions or concerns regarding the proposed budget. I appreciate the time
and the effort that went into this process from our professionals, staff, and the committee members. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Thank you very much. And uh for my report, we have asked our affordable
housing council, Mr. John Gillespie to come forward and give us an update on our fourth round obligation. If you would, Mr. Gillespie, >> Mayor, thank you. Members committee, good evening. Um, it's always good to be here. >> Thank you.
>> It's good to have you. >> Good evening to the A team. Good to see you. >> Um, before I start talking about the fourth round, I just want to I haven't seen you. I want to thank you again for just giving us the opportunity to do this in 2026. It's just it's always a privilege. It's always a pleasure and I I just enjoy the daylights out of this. So, thank you so much for for giving us
this shot. >> Thank you. >> Um, so you you are now into your fourth round, right? Which actually began in July 1, 2025. So, we're almost a year into the 10th round. We got nine years and a month and so left, right? Um
previously in the prior round which was 1987 to 1999 Cinnamonson's number was 331. In the next round uh from 99 to 2025 it was 315. In this fourth round which will go from
as I say 2025 to 2035 it is 89. So it's a huge drop right. Um you have achieved that I think largely by being proactive in both your planning and in recognizing that somewhere along the line you were
going to be assigned another number and it was actually a lower number than was originally came out from DCA. We went through that. Um you filed your plan uh last year, your fourth round plan that identified how you were going to achieve this number. Uh that plan was never
objected. There were no objections to that plan. You filed in accordance with the uh the administrative order and the statute. You filed your declaratory judgement action by the end of August last year. No one opposed that. Right. So over the ensuing months, you continue
to work on how to achieve all of this. And just a few months ago, you adopted a massive overhaul to your affordable housing ordinance. You adopted your resolutions authorizing the spending plan. You adopted your resolution authorizing the affirmative marketing plan. And for the benefit of the public,
all of what you've done in the last year and a half to two years has been done at these meetings in public and often accompanied by a public hearing. Right? So it's been a very I hate the word, but it's been a very transparent process in which the public input has been invited
all along. Right? Um so I wanted to share with you something that just came out recently. Um on on April 29th, uh Judge Cook, who is the Mount Laurel judge for our visage in Burlington County, signed the consent order of final
compliance certification. I just want to read some of these passages to you because it's really important that you understand just how binding uh the plan is and and how the court reviewed it, right? The township of
Cinnammenson's fourth round fair share plan is hereby approved and deemed to meet the objective standard pursuant to NJSA the fair housing act of complying with the fair housing act and the Mount Laurel doctrine and the township is
granted a compliance certification as to its rehabilitation obligation present need its prior round obligation 87 to 99 its third round obligation consisting of both its gap obligation for 99 to 2015 and its prospective need obligation for
2015 to 2025 and its fourth round obligation pursuant to the Fair Housing Act. The township's compliance certification shall remain in effect for 10 years beginning on July 1, 2025 ending on June 30, 2035.
And during this 10-year period, the township shall have repose from exclusionary zoning litigation, including but not limited to builder's remedy lawsuits. So you have that immunity now from any litigation. We don't ever have to worry about Cresmon ever again from back in 1989 and 1990,
right? Um the court then went on to establish reidentify the third round obligation and the and the prior round obligation and to establish your current obligation and to confirm that obligation. The court then said
the township's fourth round obligation of 89 is adjusted via a VA vacant land adjustment. Cineson doesn't have a lot of land with which to provide new affordable housing in different places. Right? I mean it's a well-developed community.
The township's RDP realistic development potential of three is addressed with the following mechanisms. Habitat for Humanity for an unidentified number of units and we will continue to work with Habitat. They that's been an extraordinary partnership for Cineson. They've been a great partner to you and
you've been a great partner to them. Right. Um and then Cinnamonson Harbor for age restricted units of an unidentified number due to the senior cap of 30% of the actual units provided the concept plan that was provided and that was in your ordinance when you adopted that. That's the only reasoning
by the way you did. You didn't reszone the town, right? So much of how you're achieving this is by simply increasing densities in two of the overlay zones, IR2 and IR3, right? Um so the current plan for Cintson Harbor is 130 market
rate one and twobedroom units and 23 affordable onebedroom units and then as I say the this round the fourth round is through the densities in the two already created overlay zones. So, one of the
great achievements I think that that Cineson can claim is you didn't reszone the town. You didn't change the character of your community, which is just it's a great community. It really is. Um, you can drive up and down Route 38. You can drive up and down Route 13
and you can see how towns have had to satisfy their responsibilities and their obligations. You don't see that here because again I think it goes to the proactivity which you showed this process all along and you and you and you address these issues early on and
head on. Uh you adopted a spending plan. You know the affordable housing trust fund has sufficient monies in it largely as a result of many of your redevelopment projects that had to pay that non-residential development fee, right? So it funded all of that.
Those are not taxpayer money. the taxpayers didn't fund the affordable housing trust fund. The developers did. Now, it also can't be used for any other purposes than affordable housing, right? Uh but but it's in your spending plan. The spending plan has been approved by
the court. Um so, I think that in terms of other opportunities that may arise u with those funds, you'll be able to rehabilitate properties and get credit for uh rehabilitation. there may be market to affordable hasn't worked
throughout the state of New Jersey. It's still a mechanism that's recognized under the fair housing act, but you have the funds in that trust with which to do that should an opportunity arise where you can can subsidize a unit and make it affordable right from market. Um, and
that's, you know, that's really pretty darn good. uh and and the I just wanted you to hear those lines from the court's order that that pretty much commend how you've done it that you that you've done it and that you've done it in a timely fashion with no objections and no
opposition. So I hope that that summarizes I don't want to go deep into the weeds but that's there's not really a lot of weeds to go deeply into right I mean we're there so any questions >> any questions >> I have a question >> Dr. Thank you Mr. the last week. So with
with that explanation, can you explain what the next steps are then? >> Yeah, the next steps are one, I suspect that sometime in the calendar year 2026, you'll hear from Kaplan on the senior project, right? Um >> and that's the harbor project that referenced that.
>> The nice thing about that is again >> when the harbor was first approved as a general development plan, it was viewed for commercial and retail. But whether whether it is a function of CO or whether it's just a function of the way things have worked, sticks and bricks
are hard to are hard to man now, right? So um the ability to take that site and it still has some retail associated with, right? There's still a retail commercial component, but get a senior housing is a good ratable, right? So you
now have substituted one ratable with another good ratable, right? No burden on the school system. Um and so that would be probably the next step that I would think. Um but the zoning is in place. As I say, you didn't have to reszone anything. Nothing was done. When
a developer comes in with an appropriate project, doctor, I think that's you know, we'll know when we see it. Uh and then you implement it, right? But but you implement it with your planning, right? It'll and it'll still have to go to the planning board just like the harbor will have to go to the planning board when the committee has set the
table for it. when they come in, they'll come in for site plan approval in front of the in front of the planning board. >> Cool. >> Anything else? >> Great. >> I think one of the if I just may, Mr. Gillespie, I think one of the things that I take out of what you just said, and of course I' I've known, is um by by
satisfying this fourth round, as you mentioned, uh the town is is insulated from developer remedy lawsuits, um which I know we've seen in in various municipalities throughout the state. >> Yeah. And you know, just from a resource
allocation point of view, setting aside the philosophical and the policy point of view, you don't have to worry about defending, right? Cresmont. God, we defended that for how many years, right? And through so many iterations of the harbors. So,
mayor, that's a great point. I don't think it should be underestimated. I think it's I think it should be recognized for again the fact that you all have been on top of this now for the last god knows how many years and and you stayed in front of it. >> I ask another question. >> Yes, ma'am. >> So, then with that certification, does
that mean that the plan is finalized? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. So it does no other revisions or >> not unless you want to, you know, and and that's the other thing about all this stuff, you know, planning is fluid and that's the same with affordable housing planning. If some opportunity arises that presents a better and more
realistic opportunity, then you may want to look at it and you'll be able to. >> Great. Thank you, Mr. Gillespie. Appreciate your time as always. >> Thank you, sir. >> Thank you, John. Appreciate it. Okay, moving on to our student liaison
report. We have Gianna Ross tonight. Gianna, surprised your mom isn't here. How supportive she is of you. I'm surprised. >> Do you want me to use this? >> Sure. Or you have to speak loudly.
>> Good evening. My name is Giana Ross and I am the um liaison for the class of 2027 at CHS. Thank you for welcoming me to share a few highlights from across our five schools during this very busy spring. Over the past month, students and staff in Simmonson High Simmonson
School District have continued to demonstrate academic excellence, creativity, school spirit, and a strong sense of community service from preschool through high school. At our preschool sites, students explored literacy and science this month through hands-on exper hands-on learning
experiences, including Earth Day recycling projects, animal habitat diuramas, and lessons about beekeeping and gardening. Families joined classrooms in special events such as donuts with grown-ups, and Mother's Day tea. The preschool program staff appreciation week
um theme was in full bloom which celebrated all staff members and and the important role they play in supporting our preschool students through the throughout this week. Staff received small tokens of appreciation including self-care items, muffins, plants, and
heartfelt notes from sentiments and families. At New Albi School, students participated in exciting educational experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Kindergarten students visited Diggerland where they had the opportunity to drive, ride, and operate
construction machinery. First graders visited the Adventure Aquarium and second graders enjoyed both the Philadelphia school and the school's first ever talent show. On April 27th, students from CHS affinity groups read the book All You Can Be with ADHD. ADHD
kids, ADHD kids are awesome to kindergarten classes in recognition of autism awareness month. Cinnamons and families came out out the evening of May 13th for the art show and ice cream social. The walls were adorned with beautiful works from students and parents were excited to see
a culmination of the children's work throughout the year. On Friday, our first grade students celebrated their long year year-long achievements at the laps for literacy event. And a special thanks to Mayor Her and the Cinemson Police Department for their attendance and support. Lastly, kindergarten
teachers Moren Kohler uh kindergarten teacher Miss Moren Kohler was honored for being selected as the ACS pre-ol educator of the year at Arcadia University. Miss Mrs. Kohler has been a champion for science and elementary occasion and has been
instrumental in the development of K through2 science curriculum. At Rush School, students competed in their annual Battle of the Books competition at the county level. The fourth graders deepened their understanding of history through a live performance of Number the Stars and completed revolutionary war
projects connected to America's upcoming 250th anniversary celebration. Students in the ecology club participated in environmental learning experiences, including a visit to the wetlands institution, while members of the Unity Club assembled nearly 100 blessing bags
for donation for St. Joseph's House in Camden. At the end of April, the drama club impressed audiences with a live performance of Annie Jr. for the school musical. Lastly, the fifth graders stu the fifth grade students participated in the annual pirate day at Wood Park. Students
enjoyed spending time outdoors with classmates, teachers, and members of the Simmonson police and fire department departments, creating lasting memories throughout through exciting challenges, laughter, and school spirit. At Cinnamonson Middle School, the sixth grade Battle of the Books team earned an
impressive second place finish in the county competition out of 15 participating schools with the support and leadership of CM CMS social studies teacher Mr. Will Welchure. A greenhouse was constructed in in the school courtyard to support the food science program. This new addition will provide
students with the opportunity to grow and study herbs as a part of a hands-on learning experience. CMS proudly hosted its spring coral concert, an entertaining night filled with bright, uplifting music and outstanding student performances. On Friday, CMS students
and staff came together for the annual fitness frenzy celebration, a day packed with ex excitement as students participated in sports stations, relay races, outdoor activities, and a picnic style lunch party. One of the highlights of the day was the dunk tank where several several brave staff members
volunteered to be dunked by students on a chilly May morning at Cinnamon Middle at Cinnamon High School. Students participated in a wide variety of rigorous academic and field-based learning opportunities. Students visited the culture and historical sites of Philadelphia's Chinatown, New York
City's museums, and the 911 Memorial and Museum. Students in business, psychology, sociology, culinary, culinary arts, and marketing courses engaged in real world learning experience ranging from neurosurgical live streams to entrepreneurial Shark
Tank style presentations. In addition, seven DECA students had the privilege of attending the ICDC DECA convention in Atlanta, Georgia. Two students proudly represented CHS in a highly competitive student-based store enterprise event while the remaining five participated in leadership and Thrive workshops designed
to strengthen their business knowledge and leadership skills. In the first two weeks of May, 92 students participated in approximately 200 AP exams for an opportunity to earn college credit. Lastly, the music department has continued to impress audiences and earn
accolades. At the beginning of May, the indoor drum line and color guard attended the annual TIA Atlantic Coast Championship weekend in Wildwood, New Jersey, finishing third with a score of 90.95, their highest score in school history. And on May
13th, the CHS concert choir and chamber choir hosted their spring with a beautiful performances from the students. Across the districts, athletic programs continue to demonstrate outstanding success, sportsmanship, and school pride throughout the spring season. At the middle school level, the
track team concluded their concluded another strong season highlighted by the boys relay team, earning a spot on the prestigious pen relays for the first time in three years. While many female athletes competed among South Jerseys top performers, the winding
spring night meet CMS baseball, softball, lacrosse all enjoyed successful seasons marked by growth, teamwork, and competitive achievement. The BA the baseball A team finished with an impressive 10 and3 record while the softball A team posted a 10 and five season prep and prepared to send a
talented group of athletes onto the high school's program. Girls lacrosse also celebrated a successful five six five and one season with many new returning players this de demonstrating tremendous development and teamwork throughout the year. At Cinnamon High School, spring
athletics continued to showcase the strength of pirate pride. The girls lacrosse team captured the fourth consecutive BCSL division title and secured a strong position heading into postseason. While boys lacrosse remained near the top of the conference standing and standings and prepared for a
potential home playoff game. The boys track and field team successfully defended its Patriot Division Championship and the girls track team earned the Patriot Division title with standout performances throughout Burlington County competition. Boys volleyball continued an outstanding season with strong playoff position and
an opportunity to capture a division championship. While boys tennis, made up of entirely underclassmen, posted an impressive 12-5 record heading into the postseason competition. Our golf team continues to excel with a 13-1 record in undefeated mark in division play. They
also they also repeated as Burlington County Open champions. On the diamond, both baseball and softball remained competitive throughout the season with several athletes earning recognition for outstanding offensive and defensive perform performances, including record breaking accomplishments by senior
softball player Delaney Croll. At the May board of education meeting, the district recognizes 2025 and 2026 board of education achievement award recipients from across the district. Congratulations to computer technician at Memorial School, Miss Darlene Gernan.
Reading specialist at New Albany School, Miss Holly Helman, Spanish teacher at Rush School, Miss Katarina Galvich. Band and music teacher at CMS, Mr. Luke uh Beccanis, and special educator education teacher at CHS, Miss Colleen Feiner.
Last, the district in the district enjoyed the opportunity to participate in Cinnamonson Day over the weekend. Members of the board and ed board of education, the district counseling team and alumni liaison hosted activities to engage students and c and community members. A great time was had by all. As
the school year wraps up, the district is looking forward to upcoming events including concerts, recognition ceremonies, graduation, and family activities that continue to strengthen strengthen strengthen the connection between our schools and great in the greater community. Thank you for supporting Cinnamonson Schools and have
a wonderful evening. Thank you, Giana. Thank you. Thank you very much. Great job, >> man. They are up to a lot. >> Okay, moving on. Resolutions. We have resolution 2026-65 authorizing the 2026 budget to be read
by title only. May I have a motion to approve resolution 2026-65, please? I'll make a motion to introduce resolution 2036-65. >> May I have a second? >> I'll second that. I'm sorry. Go ahead. >> No, go ahead.
>> I'll second that. >> Thank you very much. Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary, >> yes, Mayor. Mr. Cond, >> I. >> Mr. Miguel, >> I. >> Dr. Taylor Wall, >> I. >> Deputy Mayor Sea, >> I. >> Mayor, >> I. >> Thank you.
Resolution 2026-66 authorizing self-examination of the 2026 budget. The Division of Local Government Services permits municipalities in good financial condition to be subject to state examination every 3 years.
Chief Financial Officer and Purchasing agent Julia Edmonson has determined that we have met that requirement of self-examination this year. May I have a motion to approve resolution 2026-66, please?
>> I'll make that motion, Mr. Mayor. >> May I have a second? >> I'll second. >> No, no worries. >> I don't know if I >> roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary, >> yes. Mr. Condo, >> I. >> Mr. Miguel, >> I. Dr. Taylor Wall, I
>> Deputy Mayor Seas, I may. Thank you. We do have a budget public hearing this evening. Um, resolution 2026-61, the 2026 municipal budget. Chief
Financial Officer Julie Edmonson and Township Administrator Eric Schubiger. Uh, would you mind leading us in a presentation of the budget, please? >> Sure, Mayor. >> Thank you. Okay. Good evening everyone. Thank you, mayor. Um, members of the committee,
residents, staff, professionals, welcome to our 2026 municipal budget presentation. I want to thank the Tampa committee for giving me and Julia, our chief financial officer, the opportunity to share with
everyone the details of the proposed municipal budget tonight. So, Deputy Mayor Seagrass alluded to uh process earlier uh and it is a process. I'd like to highlight that just for a moment.
Municipal budget is certainly about funding, but it also represents the backbone of our municipality's vision, our goals and objectives, and our future. It represents a plan of action, and it also represents the
character of our community in my opinion. Although each municipal budget is adopted annually, the process, as you will see on this slide, is an ongoing effort that never ends. The township takes a team approach to the budget process.
Township staff and professionals, teamster staff, department heads, the township administrator and the finance subcommittee consisting of mayor her and deputy mayor serress this year and ultimately of course the full township
committee as Mr. Seagress alluded to earlier. They're all key components to what we're doing here today and throughout the year. And I want to thank the mayor uh mayor her deputy mayor segress for your guidance this year uh on the subcommittee for finance uh
making the difficult decisions that need to be made for a municipal budget. And of course I do it every year I will not forget our CFO is the quarterback of this whole operation. We are very lucky to have Julia. She holds everyone in this process accountable including me
and she ensures our financial s uh excuse me our sustainability each and every year. So thank you to the whole team. Now where does your dollar actually go? I find even after many years of doing
this and being involved with government, it's something we we do need to go over each and every year. I think it it it can be a little confusing for residents and really for anyone. What we're talking about here tonight is the municipal tax levy.
It is a very small portion of your overall tax bill and Julia will soon explain how that breaks down in a little bit greater detail in a few minutes. That being said, the township is responsible for collecting all taxes,
all your taxes, not just our portion, and dispersing that money to all local taxing entities, including school, county, municipal open space fund, and the fire district. If property taxes are not paid, the
township is still required to fund all of those entities that I just mentioned. I repeat, the township is required to fund all of those entities regardless of the taxes collected. That's a heavy burden, one that we take seriously.
Therefore, the reserve for uncollected taxes is an actual appropriation in our municipal budget. And Julia again will get into that a little bit more in greater detail when she gets through the numbers. That
appropri appropriation is the sole responsibility of the township committee and your municipal government. No other local taxing entity bears that burden. This is why the township's tax collection rate is so important.
That rate is directly linked to a key appropriation in the municipal tax levy. Fortunately, we do have an outstanding experienced tax collector in Sandra Root who works with staff to maintain a tax collection rate that is consistently
over 99%. Very important. So, now uh on that note, I'm going to turn it over to Julia. She has some some good news to share. We'll provide some more details on the financial details of this budget. Okay.
Is it this one? No, this one. Okay. The tax rate breakdown. As you can see, the biggest portion of your tax bill is the school levy at 61%. The county is 14%, the fire district is eight. Municipal open space is 1%. And
the municipal levy is 16%. So, if we were to eliminate all municipal services, you would still only save 16% of your tax bill. Some of the 2026 budget highlights. We are maintaining all services. We are
utilizing 35.34% of available fund balance. We are 15600,000 under the state appropriation cap. and we have over 1.1 million available banking for the state tax levy cap. The
state um maintains how much we increase the tax levy and how much we increase appropriations and we are still under both of them. Some of the 20 revenue sources we are using 17% for fund balance, 22% for
local revenues, 9% of state aid, and 52% property taxes. The m the municipality has created a fund bal fund balance policy in order to keep this tax rate stable and be
prepared for unexpected expenses. The impact of the proposed 2026 tax levy on the average residential property. The average residential home in Cinnamonson is 23600,495. That's a $195 increase from prior year. The cost for
local services in 2025 was $1454.32. And the cost for local services in 2026 is 1526.03. How will this impact the average cinemat? It will be $71.71 per year, $5.97
per month, and $1.37 per week. How is your 1526 spent? The average person will pay $39 for all your public safety, which we are increasing the number to 34 officers.
That'll add an additional officer to this. It's going to be the highest amount of officers we had since 2009. Um 222 is for all your insurance costs. 156 is for sanitation, which is your trash collection and your tonnage fees.
and public works is $247. >> Thanks. >> Yeah, he caught that. Um, thank you, Julia. Uh, you know, I've stated this before. Some of you have seen this many times. I'm using it again. Um what's important for Cine Mintson is that we do
not settle for the status quo. Um in my opinion, we're about progress. Uh just doing things the way we have always done them is is in fact the status quo, but continually examining programs and services and finding different ways to improve is real progress. We are
committed to action and continually examining expenses and revenues. One example is healthcare. All around us, every public entity throughout the state of New Jersey and beyond is greatly impacted by the high cost of health
care. Instead of just complaining and accepting the high cost of the state health benefits plan, the township examined other options this past year. We have a high standard to ensure that the coverage is equal to or better
than the existing care in order to make any move any change. We did that. We were able to reduce the cost to both our employees and residents. I'm happy to report the township is now enrolled in a new fund. Just this year, the township saved
$250,000 in healthcare premiums uh again in 2026 alone. That red reduces the burden on taxpayers as well as our employees and helps us maintain a really good staff here in Cinnamonson. That's progress. A second example is
banking. Instead of just complaining and accepting standard interest rates or doing banking the way it's always been done, the township routinely communicates with our bank representatives, reviews our accounts, and has generated several hundred,000 simply by managing funds in a proactive
manner. That's also progress. A third example is utilities. Again, instead of just complaining, accepting the rising energy cost that many of us are dealing with, the township has continued to examine and monitor
third-party energy provider rates to secure the best rates possible. And again, in doing so, we've saved several thousand dollars over the past few years in electrical costs by simply taking some initiative and not accepting the
status quo. That too is progress. The township is not required to take any of the actions I just described, but we do it. We did it because our residents deserve it and because public entities do not succeed by merely doing
what is required. It's going above and beyond. And that's what we will continue to do. So, on services and capital investments, just a quick review of some of our services, thousands of police calls. In fact, I
think we may have just gotten one. Um, a commitment to community policing and programs, ball field upgrades, playground improvements, park amenities, snow removal, leaf and brush collection, plan review,
road improvements, business assistance, recreation programs, events, property maintenance, construction inspections, licensing, and so many more. Those are just some of the things we do here every day with great staff and professionals.
But for me, perhaps the greatest service is our team's commitment to customer service. To me, that's the greatest service of all. And being present, um, our staff, our leaders are present. And it's so important because being present,
excuse me, being present, I believe, begins with our leaders. People here in this room are present. I see them out there doing their jobs uh in the middle of the night uh going to visit someone uh for a marriage license in a hospital.
We've done that. Um we we've been here on weekends. Uh Julia, in addition to uh going through these numbers with us here today, every year for the past eight years, she's here on New Year's Eve and she's here on New Year's Day because we have
to close out the previous year and get us ready for the ensuing year. Some towns wait and roll over finance term until the fifth or sixth of the of the month the next year. We don't do that here because we have people that know our our staff, the residents, they need services. We need money to be ready. Uh
Julia does that. And so many more. Where's Mike Mitten? He was here. Did he bail on me already? So, our our community development director coming in on a Saturday to issue a zoning permit because someone needs to have a permit for something they're having at their house on a
Saturday. It's things like that that we do all the time. And I'm proud to to call them uh colleagues and it's very important. So, those are just a few examples. A a former colleague and a mentor of mine once said, and I use it, I will use
it tonight. Half of effective leadership is being present and the other half is never being absent. Yes, I like that. Um, but my experience tells me that being present is so much more than just showing up. And that's what we need to focus on and continue to focus on.
Listening, learning, leaving our egos at the door, all of us. So, a lot of people talk to talk. I like to think that we walk the walk here. Uh, and I'll join you in that. That mentality coupled with thoughtful planning gets us these
budgets that we've been having the past several years. So that services and that's customer service. Our capital program ensures that we invest in our future to remain cutting edge and to remain
uh excuse me to meet the demands of a changing infrastructure that we've continue to see. This year, the capital improvement program includes park enhancements, safety equipment, storm water management improvements, land acquisition and development, road
resurfacing equipment and vehicles, building upgrades, and long-range strategic planning. The program is the result of continual review of the township infrastructure and in con consultation with our department heads and our professionals
and our residents all in a concerted effort to meet the vision of this governing body. So that sentiment leads me to the next slide. Community engagement water break. What does that have to do with the budget, you ask? It means
everything. Because the term good government is often used by public officials and citizens alike. Gets thrown around all the time with no real meaning. But for me, good government is about community
engagement. It's built on communication and engagement among residents, municipal staff and professionals, and our governing body. When citizens take an active interest in our community, and they have and they
will, when they provide feedback and participate in local discussions, it strengthens the democratic process and it helps ensure that local government remains responsive to community needs. At the same time, some of whom are here
tonight, the dedication and commitment of our staff and professionals play a critical role in translating policy into action. These key players work every day to deliver essential services, solve problems, provide expertise, all of which helps
keep our community safe, efficient, and forward thinking. Thank you. Equally important and certainly not the least important is the role of the governing body in setting our priorities, listening to residents, working
collaboratively with staff to develop thoughtful solutions, strong relationships among elected officials and stakeholders. All these stakeholders create an environment where decisions can be made transparently and
responsibly. When these three groups that you see on this slide work together with mutual respect and open communication, the result is a better community, a better cinemen, and a more effective local government that fosters innovation and improves
accountability. It helps us create new policies and programs that reflect the needs and values of the entire community. This budget represents that collaboration and Cinnamonson greatly benefits from the spirit of partnership and civic
engagement. But we can all do better. I can do better. By continuing to encourage this participation, we can ensure that our local government remains responsive and transparent now and in the future. To me, that is
what government looks like. good government. Looking ahead and a little review of the past, uh they kind of work together based upon this prudent fiscal management and
thoughtful planning of the past several years. As Julia mentioned already, this year we're looking at a$137 a week on the average assessed home. Uh
for the past 10 years, while continuing to maintain a healthy fund balance, we've had good budgets. In fact, residents have only seen an increase of approximately 40 cents per month on the average assessed home for municipal services over the past 10 years.
40 cents per month for 10 years. To me, that's remarkable for a a variety of reasons. Not many municipalities are able to stabilize their respective tax levies and those who do are often required to significantly deplete their fund
balances. We do not. We have a fund balance policy and we have committee members who will not allow us if we wanted to and we will not. Um in fact other public entities um are are hurting right now. Some of them are even reducing services and they
have to continue to raise their respective tax levies at a at a high rate. As I just explained, that is not the case here for the Cinnamon Municipal Tax Levy. The main reason is they do not have our team. I like our team under this leadership of
this of this committee. This commit this team will continue to aggressively seek quality ratables, redevelopment projects, grant funding opportunities, and shared services to maintain this great financial position. And speaking of grant funding, I'm happy
to report that the township has secured over the past several years approximately 11 million in grant funds for a variety of projects, equipment, and services. That amounts to more than what the entire municipal tax levy is
this year. Think about that. The entire municipal tax levy is just under 11 million. 106. Okay. So, um that that is really important to help us get projects done
without while keep excuse me while keeping a a stable tax rate. And with those funds, we've been it's enabled the township to reconstruct major roadways, install sidewalks, to promote walkability, complete storm water management improvements, athletic field and court
upgrades, and several park enhancements along the way. Now, of course, there are uncontrollable factors. Inflation, unfunded mandates, the newest state or federal fancy, and extraordinary events. Can't control them. There are no
guarantees and history has shown us that tax increases are sometimes necessary and in fact it's good it's prudent fiscal management to do so. That being said, the fact of the matter is that the planning of this township
committee has placed our community in an outstanding financial position. To meet the goal of a high level fiscal management, the township will continue to evaluate municipal operations to stabilize expenses, continue quality economic development,
continue to seek grant funding opportunities, and continue to seek shared service opportunities. In short, a fiscal excuse me, a fiscally responsible citson only comes with great effort and thinking outside of the proverbial
box. One last item. I'm getting there, guys. Too often in our society, the greatest self the greatest interest is self-interest. This might be the fifth year I brought this up, and I'm going to continue to. This governing body operates under the notion that the
greatest interest must always be the public interest. And that's a good start. That's a really good start. Our team embodies that notion every day. And that is a great environment in which to work. And I know it's going to stay that way. The budget plan's not about one person.
Julie and I get to talk about it today and we enjoy doing it, but it's about the entire community. It's everyone in this room. It's everyone at home maybe watching at some point. Uh it's everyone and understanding that is really important.
So that's one of the greatest things I've learned in my many years of of working in government, teaching government. Um, no matter what you know, you don't know it all. And the next conversation I have with someone might be the best one I've ever had. Might
learn something new. Uh, that's the culture we have to have here. So, quick review. Uh, let's challenge each other to even be better than we have been, which is hard, but we can do it. Let's continue
to do what's right for 2026. All municipal services an additional $1.37 per week on the average assessed home for this year recent history 40 cents
per month for 10 years. That's the cinnamon way. So with that being said, thank you Mayor Her and committee members. Uh thank you once again. Uh Julie and I are happily happy to present
this to you this plan for for your consideration and we thank you for your continued support. >> Thank you everyone. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thanks Jo.
>> Thanks Eric. Okay, thanks for that presentation both of you. Uh, with that said, may I have a motion to open public comment on the 2026 municipal budget, please? >> I'll make that motion, Mr. Mayor.
>> May I have a second? >> I'll second that. >> Voice vote. All in favor? >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. Okay. Hearing none. Public comment on the 2026 municipal budget is now open. Please
come forward. State your name and address for the record. >> Yes, sir. >> Yes, sir. >> Ber got to lower this. Hi, I'm Timmy Smensa, 1596 Jason Drive, Cinnammenson.
And the question I wanted to ask is the agenda shows a $21.2 million budget for this year with $10.6 million being raised directly through local taxes. For those of us trying to understand the practical implications, what is the
estimated impact of this budget on the average residential property tax bill in Cinnamonson compared to last year? Is that the $137? >> Yes, sir. >> You were talking about yes. >> Okay. Thank you. Okay, seeing no one else come forward, may I have a motion to close public
comment on the 2026 municipal budget, please? >> I'll make that motion. >> Thank you very much. I will second that voice vote. All in favor? >> I >> opposed. Extensions. Hearing none, I will make a motion to approve the 2026 municipal budget. May I
have a second, please? >> I'll second that, Mr. Thank you. Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary, >> yes, Mayor. Mr. Condo, >> I. >> Mr. McIll, >> I. >> Dr. Taylor Walls, >> I. >> Deputy Mayor Crest, >> I. >> Mayor Horn, >> I.
>> Thank you. >> Okay. We have an ordinance uh public hearing. It's ordinance 2026-5 authorizing capital improvements appropriating 3,143,500. author authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds in the
aggregate principal amount of up to 2,986,325. As outlined earlier, the finance committee met to discuss proposed capital improvements. The total amount to be funded is $3,143,500. The required down payment to be
appropriated in the operating budget is $157,148 and the amount of the bond anticipation note is 2,986,325. Cap capital improvements as outlined earlier include public works vehicles, public works equipment, police
department vehicles, building repairs, park and recreation improvements, parking lot upgrades, road resurfacing, and storm water management. May I have a motion to open public comment on ordinance 2026-5,
please? >> I will make that motion. >> Thank you very much. I will second that voice vote. All in favor? I >> I >> opposed abstensions. Hearing none. Public comment is now open
on ordinance 2026-5, please. >> Sure. >> Sorry. >> Do you want me to repeat my name? >> If you please. Yes. Thanks. >> Yeah. Timmy Smenza, uh, 1596 Jason Drive
in Cinnamonson Harbor specifically. Uh, so I wanted to ask about is it possible to get a public itemization of the line items that we are going to be seeing put into this $3 million
because storm water management is great because I live in the harbor. I'd like to hear if there's anything that's more specifically allocated to the harbor, especially the area commercially that is immediately around it. It it would just be helpful to know.
>> That's all. Thank you. >> Okay, Mr. Singers, you >> Yeah. So, the question the answer to the question is absolutely. >> Okay. >> It's itemized, I believe, in the resolution. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, it's publicly available in the resolution. Yes, sir. Got it. Okay. Thank you.
>> Thank you. He wants it more than that. >> Yeah, I think that was his question. I think because I don't want to say storm. >> Timmy, if if you need any additional information though, be happy to provide it. >> Okay. >> Okay. Seeing no one else come forward. May I have a motion to close public
comment on ordinance 2026-5, please? >> I make the motion, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you. I will second that. Voice vote. All in favor? >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. Okay. Hearing none. May I have a motion to approve 2026-5, please?
>> I'll make that motion, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. I will second that. Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary, >> yes, Mayor. Mr. Cond, >> I. >> Mr. Mandel, >> I. >> Dr. Taylor Wall, >> I. >> Deputy Mayor Seas, >> I. >> Mayor Horn, >> I. >> Thank you.
>> Okay. We have ordinance 2026-6, the 2026 salary ordinance in accordance with public practice and commensurate with the adoption of the municipal budget. Miss Edmonson has recommended that the salary ordinance is amended to address anticipated 2026 salaries. May I have a
motion to open public comment on 2026-6, please? >> I will make that motion, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. May I have a second? >> I'll second that. >> Thank you. Voice vote. All in favor? I >> I >> opposed. Abstensions.
Hearing none. Public comment on 2026-6 is now open. Again, please come forward. State your name and address for the record. >> Mr. Smensa, >> you good? >> He's waiting for the next one.
>> You good? >> All right. No problem. Seeing nobody come forward, may I have a motion to close public comment on ordinance 2026-6, please? I'll make a motion to close public comment on ordinance
2026- >> six. >> All right. I will second that. Voice vote. All in favor? >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. Hearing none. May I have a motion to approve ordinance 2026-6, please?
>> I'll make that motion to approve ordinance 2026-6. >> Thank you very much. I will second that. Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary. Yes, mayor. Mr. Cond, >> I >> Mr. Miguel, >> I. >> Dr. Taylor Wall, >> I, >> Deputy Mayor Seas, >> I, >> Mayor Horn, >> I.
>> Thank you. >> Moving on, we have ordinance 2026-7 amending chapter 525 of the township code to establish standards for temporary sign placements. In October of 2025, two students brought
to the township committee's attention that the municipal code states that political signs shall not be erected more than 45 days prior to an election and shall be removed within 14 days after an election. They referenced
recent changes involving early voting and recommended that the township committee update this provision. After review by staff and professionals, the recommendation is to revise 525-120B4 to such signs shall not be erected more
than 52 days prior to the election or referendum and shall be removed by the candidate, political committee, entity, organization, individual, or pack within 7 days after
thection. ction or referendum. May I have a motion to open public comment on 2026-7, please? >> I'll make that motion, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. May I have a second? >> I'll second that. >> Thank you. Voice vote. All in favor? >> I
>> opposed. Abstensions hearing none. Public comment on 2026-7 is now open. Okay, seeing nobody come forward. May I have a motion to close public comment on ordinance 2026-7, please?
>> I will make that motion. >> Thank you so much. I will second that. >> Voice vote. All in favor? I >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. Hearing none. I'll take a motion to approve ordinance 2026-7. Please. >> I'll make a motion to approve ordinance
2026-7. I figured you would. I will second that. Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary. >> Yes, ma'am. Mr. Conduct >> I >> Mr. McIll >> I >> Dr. Taylor Wall >> I >> Deputy Mayor Seest >> I >> Mayor Horner >> I >> thank you.
>> Few items on the consent agenda. Resolution 2026-67 approving application for amusement games license for K1 Speed Incorporated. The township received an application for an amusement games license for K1 Speed
located on Route 130 South. Municipal Clerk Lisa Pione. Police Chief William Obachowski have reviewed the application, determined that it complies with the provisions set forth by the Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission, and recommend the issuance
of the license and authorization by this governing body. Resolution 2026-68, authorizing temporary parking for St. Charles Carnival. Chief Obachowski recommends temporary no parking measures
from Monday, June 8th to Saturday, June 13th for the safety of all residents during the St. Charles Carnival. Resolution 2026-69 authorizing cancellation of taxes for totally disabled veteran block 2309 lot
15. Tax Assessor Dennis De Clerk and tax collector Sandy Root have determined that the owner of this property is eligible for this tax benefit. Resolution 2026-70 authorization of cancellation of taxes for totally disabled veteran block 902
lot one. Again, tax assessor Dennis D clerk and tax collector Sandy Root have determined that the owner of this property is eligible for this tax benefit. That is the end of the consent agenda. May I have a motion to open public comment on consent agenda items
only at this time? >> I'll make a motion to open public comment on consent agenda items only. >> I will second that voice vote. All in favor? >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. Public comment on consent agenda items
are now open. Again, please come forward. State your name and address for the record. Okay, seeing nobody come forward. May I have a motion to close public comment on the consent agenda items? >> I'll make that motion, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you very much. I will second that. B vote. All in favor?
>> I opposed. Abstensions. >> Hearing none. May I have a motion to approve the consent agenda, please? >> I'll make that motion, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you so much. I will second that. Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary. >> Yes, Mayor. >> Mr. Conduct. >> I. >> Mr. Miguel. >> I.
>> Dr. Taylor Wall. >> I. >> Deputy Mayor Seas. >> I. Mayor >> I >> thank you. >> The approval of the minutes of the April 20th, 2026 meeting. May I have a motion to approve the minutes of April 20,
2026, please? >> I'll make that motion. >> May I have a second, please? >> I'll second. >> Roll call vote, please. Madam Secretary. >> Yes, Mayor. Mr. Conduct, >> I. >> Mr. Miguel, >> I. >> Dr. Taylor Wall, >> I. >> Deputy Mayor Seuss. I
>> mayor >> I >> thank you. >> Okay, moving on to the bill list. I'm assuming everybody's had opportunity to review the bill list, ask any questions, get any clarification on anything? >> Yes, sir. >> So, with that said, may I have a motion
to approve the bill list, please? >> I can make a motion to approve the bill list. >> Thank you very much. May I have a second? >> I'll second that. >> Thank you. Roll call vote, please, Madam Secretary. >> Yes, ma'am. Mr. Cond, >> I. >> Mr. Miguel, >> I. Dr. Taylor Wall >> I,
>> Deputy Mayor Se >> I, >> Mayor Corner, >> I. >> Thank you. >> Okay, moving on to public comment. Um, just want to reiterate that um public comment is the public's
opportunity to discuss any item that they wish. Uh the only thing that we ask um is that we keep comments to five minutes and that we limit the amount of times that you do come back and forth between the podium to one time. If you
have additional questions, please feel free to reach out, grab one of us after the meeting, certainly contact one of the committee members or the administrator. Um I just want to remind people of that. So with that said, may I have a motion to open public comment?
I'll make a motion to open public comment. >> Thank you very much. I will second that. Voice vote. All in favor? >> I opposed. Extensions. Hearing none. Public comment is now open. Please come forward. State your name and address for the record.
>> Mike 100. Can you talk a little bit about the fence at the carnival and how wide the openings are going to be? >> Uh, sure. I think Chief Obachowski would be the best person to answer that question. Chief, if you would. >> What was the question?
>> Question was the entrances to the carnival and how wide is it open? Is it a driveway? >> Yes. Double gate on each entrance. There be four entrances high >> and they're going to be gated.
Okay. >> It's the same way that the setup has been used in um Medford New Shamp Carble. Uh Medford's just ended last um last Saturday. This the second year in a row that Metro's had. >> Yeah. Some people have expressed concern
because of being fenced in. That's why I thought it might be open to driveway with and then people would just go through there. If something happens if something happens there is uh enough room to safely
clear. >> Yeah. Good question, Mike. Thank you. Good question. Reneol Davis, 21108 Hunter Street, and you can imagine why I'm up here. I would
like to know why you can only come up one time. I can understand you're wanting to limit five minutes, but if there's something else that comes up that you want to address in a public forum, why does it only have to be once?
>> Yeah. So, I I mean, I'll certainly do my best to answer that question and please feel free to to to chime in. Um, if if the time limit is 5 minutes and and you take 5 minutes for for one comment and then come back later and then take an additional 5 minutes and then come back
later and then take another additional five minutes, now you're up to 15 minutes >> and the rule states five minutes, right? >> And then there's a lot of interaction between someone at the podium and then someone that happens to be sitting in the audience too. And and that's not
being directed to committee. It's actually we've noticed it's being directed to people back and forth. So it it's to make sure that everybody has equal time to come up and address township committee or any of the professionals that are up here or that may happen to be in the audience for
that particular minute. Um is is why we just wanted to make sure that we reiterated that that's not something that's new. That's actually something that's been in place for quite some time. We were just reiterating that point. So just so I'm perfectly clear.
>> Yeah. >> So suppose you only use half of your time. >> Is it possible to come back? >> It's a fair question. I don't know that we have the means to time people. Um but that's a fair question. >> Okay. Well,
hopefully we'll make it work. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. I like the shirt. That's from the one of those tennis events, right? >> Yes. It's one of the events that um Cinemson Township planned and it was very successful. It was in East
Riverton. Uh >> I remember >> it was it was great. >> Yeah, >> it was very great. >> Neon and Yeah. Jamala Shepard 215 Front Street in Palmyra, New Jersey.
Speaking on behalf of the Civic Club of Riverton, East Riverton and Palmyra. I just need to be clear if I'm understanding this. On the fourth round obligations for affordable housing, Cinnamonson
Township has met the requirements. Am I saying that correctly? >> That is correct. >> Now the 89 units that need to be built is going to take 10 years. Is that
correct? being built. >> The 89 is a number and you have 10 years with noise to achieve it. But as with prior rounds, it's not 89 new units. You get credit for uh certain other types of supported needs housing. Um so the
number of actual new units is not going anywhere near 89, but that's correct. You do have 10 years to achieve that. The only one that we think as I said to the doctor's question earlier is that the senior units at the harbor will probably occur within the next year or
two at least as far as approvals and then whatever their construction schedule is it is but that's the nature of the round. It's a 10-year round and then in 2035 we'll be looking at whatever that fifth round obligation. >> Okay. Thank you.
>> Thank you Miss Shepard. My name is Daniel Carton the number one Oakwood Drive Cindon. That's Cindonson Avenue and Oakwood Drive at the corner. I was here last November about a complaint about the traffic of uh young adults and young people riding their
battery operated toys at speeds at 20 to 40 miles per hour on my sidewalk along Cintson Avenue. That situation has not changed. It only got worse. I kind of always see them coming while I'm edging, cutting, or blowing the grass.
It's a problem. that I was two weeks ago. I was I I looked to see waves coming and all of a sudden within minutes a guy come in a big uh motorized bicycle, big fat tires. He
come zooming by me like rocket. Anyway, um I order also mentioned last year about the center of turning lane on Simmonson Avenue being a passing lane. When people were making it a turn, the cars go around. They use that as a passing lane instead of a waiting and
till somebody moves. Uh that got worse because the passing lane is now a speed lane. Two weeks ago, a car was going by 80 miles an hour from the circle up to Palm as far as I can see. Drove the center
lane with a rocket. So, it's getting crazy over there. Uh, fast moving vehicles. Yeah. Unsafe conditions for pedestrians and other and other drivers. Then located right across the street from my house is the smoke shop, Ivan's Auto Service, Rad Water
Rice, and other shops. All right. People must wait for unwilling drivers to cross the street from either side. Can't get across. Recently, I went to cross the street. This is true. Cross the street after waiting for traffic. Wait, wait,
wait. I finally get and a guy pulled out from Villinger Avenue and tried to beat me. Well, he did beat me by zooming the other side of the street. And I went like this. Like, what's what's that? And he said to me, hold it. Uh, I stopped by my hands open. why would you do that?
And he lowered his window and shouted, "There's no crosswalk there." I was stunned to say the least. And I believe he's right except except for running the me over part. He was right. Needs a crosswalk. We need a crosswalk and some way to slow down these anxious
and obnoxious drivers. I realized that Cinem Avenue is a county road and respectfully would hope that a member of this temp council committee would champion my request to the proper county people. I it's crazy it's an
cop. No, it's it's it's when the circle first went in it was great. Slow cars down >> but they they've gone past they just punch it to go fly up myra. So >> I got copies if you want copy of this. >> Yeah,
>> sure. Yeah, please if you would give that to >> because last year nothing happened. I I didn't think it would, but uh it's it's really nasty over there. I want my street. Thank you. >> The county is a county called the police. He the guy was raped. There's if
there's no crosswalk for him. >> I hate to say it like that, but >> Thank you, sir. >> Thank you. Thank you. Marty Hagerty, 307 Nathan Drive in the Harbor. Um, I have two things. I want to
uh give Renee a little support on that five minute one time at the microphone thing and I want to clarify something. Are you saying that in these meetings when you are in when we're in open public comment someone can only come up here once even
does that does that mean if you've if someone has spoken on one of those other open public comment things on that you open during the meeting and then close and then we get to this portion of the
meeting the person cannot come back up here and speak. No, it's not a cumulative five minutes throughout the agenda. It's just for public comment items. >> So, I've been in this room >> Mhm. >> for public comment when you've let a
young man, well, young, I don't know how old he was, younger than I am, >> stand up here and kind of rant >> about federal government problems on and on and on and on and on. And I can understand >> why you would not want that to happen
every other week, but that's not what generally happens here. >> In fact, this meeting is pretty long compared to most of your meetings because it's a budget meeting and there's maybe four new people in the audience tonight, but usually it's the same crew and
nobody speaks more than five minutes. But sometimes what's said at this mic and what the response from the committee is kind of requires someone to come back up to clarify or ask another question. And I think it's interesting.
>> Here we go. >> And not too great that this whole meeting has been about collaboration between the community and the committee. And now we have a rule that's going to be enforced that someone can only get up here and speak once.
>> Yeah. If I if I may. >> Yeah. So you you kind of made the point where you were talking about um Mr. Richards who was here as you alluded to and and he he went way past that five
minutes, right? And and then you you stated, but that probably should not have been allowed, right? But there there has to be a mechanism to not allow that. Right. So >> don't you have that ability?
>> So I do by by making sure that the rule of that five minutes which has been in place for quite some time it so >> it's making sure that we reiterate that rule. We can't necessarily pick and
choose right. If if if you go past that and let's say that's 6 minutes, but that resident comes back and he goes past and he goes to 15 minutes. We also we can't anticipate who's coming up to
the podium that particular night and how long they're going to take. So we we >> are you saying that you can't stop someone at the five minute mark? >> Because you could. >> We could. >> And you should. I think >> of course we absolutely could.
>> But that's not what I'm asking you. I'm asking you if >> if the whatever we were talking about right now >> Sure. >> causes someone else to come up here and say something Yeah. >> that I have not heard of before or or don't understand. >> Sure. >> And I've already been up here once.
You're not going to let me come up again and ask >> a question or speak to a point. >> The rule that's in place is that one time only. That's the rule that's in place. That's not to say that with this feedback the committee cannot sit down and have a conversation about that and
amend that. I'm I'm stating the rule as it stands right now. Right. We can't anticipate because again to your point that particular resident that you referred to >> he >> by the way that was months ago. >> Oh I know that. Absolutely. Absolutely.
>> Um I've am reiterating something again that has been put in place some time ago. That's all in anticipation of perhaps this happening again that there is that rule. Reminding people there is that rule in case something like that does happen again. We should be stating
that moving forward. So we have the ability to say thank you so much for your comment. As we mentioned in this meeting, there is a fiveminut rule because he could go five minutes. He I'm referencing that particular resident. That's who you were you were referring
to. and then come back again up to the podium and say I know I had five minutes on that issue but somebody else brought something to my attention so now I have five minutes on this issue right so we are just simply trying to make sure that everybody has ample time to get to the
podium at least one time that's not to say that in a case of a shorter meeting if something happens it's it's the committee's discretion right if it is like you were saying hey okay somebody has a quick question. They want to kind of have another point that we have a
discussion about that. I'm just making sure that the rule that's in place and has been in place is put out there to the public so they know that that something like that does exist. >> Okay. Uh I don't know where I am on the clock, but I do have one other thing. please.
>> And that is about the carnival where uh I have never been ever and I will never be. But there's a flyer that I guess the police department and the church have put together about the keeping it safe. I guess I assume there have been some
problems there. I don't know anything about it. But I do have a neighbor who asked me about it and she happens to be Turkish. She wears a headscarf. She read that flyer and thinks she can't take her kids to the carnival. And I
know what the intent of the of these rules are, but in the flyer it says you can't cover your hair with a and this word scarf is used. So I told her I think she can go to the carnival. She does not feel that she
can't >> cover your face. >> It says hair. It says both. The flyer says hair. You can't have a hoodie, which it's okay. >> Yeah. You can't have anything covering your hair or your face. And I just want you to know that there are people in the community who are concerned about that
and think they can't take their kids to that carnival. >> She's not going to come here and say that herself. >> She asked me to say it for her. >> Thanks. >> Thank you. >> Okay, seeing no one else come forward, may I have a motion to close public comment, please? I'll make that motion,
Mr. Mayor. >> May I have a second? >> I'll second that. >> Thank you so much. Voice vote. All in favor? I >> opposed. >> Abstensions. Public comment is now closed. >> Any comments from committee members this
evening? Um, I would just like to take a second to thank, uh, as we do this time of year, both our CFO and our administrator and the department heads, uh, the staff and professionals. Um, you guys are the
ones that put in the hard work to make sure that this budget stays under control every year. Um, and I just wanted to express my gratitude for the hard work that you guys all put in. Thank you. Anyone
else? >> Yeah, I'd like you to second that. Um, not only not only the people that that uh Mr. Khan talked about, but you two too from our committee that are on that thing. Thank you. You guys did a great job as you do every year and we we do appreciate it. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. Anything? Um, mayor, >> I I appreciate the time and effort like I said earlier from the staff and professionals uh on the on the budget and also all the folks that were involved in Cinnamon Day. All right, we
most of us attended a lot of the folks in the room attended. I thought it was well attended and and run run very well. >> Well, I mean >> yeah, >> I'm going to I'll I'll reiterate that. I unless you want us to go.
>> No, I don't. You please. >> I just wanted to say thank you also for the um the workshop beforehand and sharing that information and giving the opportunity to have an an informal meeting in order to um discuss the the details of the budget. So, thank you for
taking that time. >> Okay. I will thank the staff and the township committee for all their input and all their hard work on this budget. I actually failed to mention during my report. I'd like to thank Administrator
Schubiger. Um he and I worked with a local municipality. We know that field space has has been an ongoing issue with with some of our sports programs and and the quality of life of some residents that live uh around some of our pocket parks. And uh
Eric and I worked very closely with uh a neighboring municipality in um also with the president of the lacrosse program and we think we I don't think I know we have secured uh a site for the
cinnamonson lacrosse program that will uh take them out of fountain farms at least um most of the time and uh they will have their own field in a neighboring town. That neighboring town, which doesn't have a lacrosse program,
is going to benefit from partnering with Cinnamon Lacrosse to provide lacrosse for uh the children in their municipality and they're going to have a great field space um hopefully for quite
a long time uh for that lacrosse program and I know the residents around Fountain Farms um were very thankful for that. So failed to mention that during my report. So I want to thank Lacrosse as well for being open to to the idea. Um that's all
I have. So with that said, may I have a motion to adjourn the meeting? >> I can make a motion to adjourn the meeting. >> I will second that. Next meeting will be Monday, June 1st at 6:30. How's that? Now it's official.