Everybody, >> let's call this meeting to order 7:23 p.m. Thank you for your patience. We're going to start with the salute to 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, liberty and justice for all. >> For tonight's moment of silent reflection, I'm asking the chief to say a few words, please. >> Uh, thank you, mayor. Hey, I I called mayor before he asked me to uh say something. Uh we uh lost a friend of mine uh Mike Raleigh. He was a police
officer for over 25 years. Uh he retired about 25 years ago. He retired as captain and unfortunately passed away uh after about a year of illness. So thank you Mary. Mayor I should mention that before. So again name is Mike Riley. He retired as captain about 25 years ago.
>> Please join us in a moment of silent reflection. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Sunshine Law Notice. In accordance with the provisions of the open public meetings act, public meetings may be held in person or by means of communication equipment to include
streaming services and other online meeting platforms. This meeting is being held in person and through the Zoom meeting platform being broadcast from Burough Hall 748 River Road Fair, New Jersey. Public participation for this regular council meeting of April 27th, 2026 is available by call and phone
number or through web conference Zoom. Members of the public will be on mute until this time for questions or comments which will be announced. At that time, the public has the opportunity to question or comment by phone or through Zoom by the raised hand button and will be called on at the appropriate time. Notice of this meeting
was included in a schedule of meetings which was adopted by resolution number 2026-13 sent to the Aspberry Park Press and the New York Times as January 12th 2026 post on the burough website the Bolton board of municipal building and has remained continuously posted as required under
the statute with adequate notice having been given the burough clerk is directed to include the statement in the minutes of the meeting. Allison may please have a roll call. Council members Cole >> hereelli >> here. >> Griffin >> here. >> H >> here. >> Mki Olson >> here.
>> We have administrator York, Attorney Soal, CFO Britain, Chief McGovern, Engineer Gardella, and Director. >> Okay. Uh we have a proclamation for National Police Week, but the chief just uh stepped out. I think he's making some
calls right now. We'll do that when he comes back in. We're going to move along to a workshop uh starting with a request from the Fair and Business Association to display August sidewalk sale lawn signs. 20 to 30 of those signs. Does anyone have any questions on this request? >> And a banner at the entrance.
>> And and a banner at the entrance. No. Does have a motion to approve? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Anyone opposed? Thank you. I'd like to uh go into landscaping by Hall. I believe that Tracy going to lead us into this. Certainly, mayor. Um I have a
brief introduction this evening. We're going to look at a presentation um a local landscape architect. Um and prior to him joining us for his presentation, I'd like to give you a little bit about him. Mr. Steven Arc, landscape architect
in Alex locally, he has been um doing design projects since 1982. His work has appeared in numerous publications including architects digest house and garden and veranda. It includes his work includes an array ranging from Manhattan roof terraces to 125 acre country
estate. The spir offers a full range of professionals or land services site planning through design film and construction drawings and construction. With that said, um it's my pleasure to introduce Steven Krab who is a fair haven resident and the landscape
architect who um is working with the historic association of fair haven for a landscape design at bsentennial hall. Thank you for joining us tonight screen as well paper copy.
I should point out that the president of the board is here as well in case there are questions. Uh I think Mr. Any question also is >> so I would be honest in saying that I
usually don't get involved in projects that have committees involved. the old adage of a camel being a horse designed by a committee and I don't design landscape camels any more than I. However, I'm happy to say that um your
uh uh you have the benefit of a really dedicated group of individuals on this historic association who I know that they're not going to allow Boston Hall to become an architectural camel. So I'm uh really happy to be um involved with
this uh project. Um so wi with um uh well let's see. So landscapes are often thought of as being cosmetic just sort of put some green stuff around. Uh and uh that sort of simplistic thinking is really completely out of place when it
comes to a a structure like Bsentennial Hall. um uh specifically because of its both historic and architectural characteristics which are really um very special and real um amenity for for for the burrows. Um so from the standpoint
of of the landscape design uh for me there's there's three overriding uh considerations with regard to a project like this. Um obviously there's the the the history of the the structure itself. Then there is the functional things that we would like it to provide for for us
moving forward. And then as a landscape architecture obviously the horicultural aspects of what we the gestures that that we uh put in place here are important. So um so all of those come into play with uh when when one is
preparing a a design like this. And uh uh between myself and the association, we've we've gone through a lot of different uh permutations of the plan, putting things in, taking it out, etc. But always with an eye toward again the
the history, the functional uh needs um and then uh how how horiculture um can play a role. Each one of those also has both an educational and an aesthetic um uh component to it. So that that there
is that overlay as well. Um so in terms of uh just the introduction all of you are probably familiar with the site but um on the plan Cedar Avenue is at the bottom. Obviously the the the structure in in the center of the site is
approximately 3/4 of an acre about 140 to 150 ft uh uh of dimension on side. And um in terms of just initially getting started with how you can think about something like this, when you go to the site, the two things that you notice are that um that the the area
that's occupied that seems to be usable, the the grass and uh and the and the building are almost being encroached upon uh by either IV and ground covers, things of the ground, and then trees overhanging. Um I went through and
basically um inventoried all of the existing trees on the site and probably 75% of them are either dead, dying or a hazard. And so uh one of the things that that initially has to be thought about is selective tree removals on on almost
all all three sides. Um and then in conjunction with that, basically pushing uh uh uh back into um all of the um the uh the ground covered areas to in uh
improve the uh or increase the the amount of the the site that becomes available for for improvement. The one thing I would notice, and it doesn't appear on here because it makes the plan graphically a little little cumbersome, is that um as you may know the on on
both the north, the east and the southern portions of the property. Um the outer uh swath of maybe 12 to 15 ft is somewhat precipitous. Um obviously where the structure was was moved here some sort of filling of the site must have gone on and and uh certainly on the
north eastern corner of the of the property. Um there's about a 5 to six foot grade change. Um so uh so there are that there is that zone uh where it's would not be easily or easily feasible
to um uh to add that back uh that property back into the the flat site without building walls or or some other other physical gestures like that. So, um, but, um, so, so to start with, we're sort of trying to increase the the
usable area by by by pushing back to toward the perimeter, taking down whatever whatever trees are are hazards, um, and uh, and then and then building on that. And so in in light of what I was saying earlier about the uh the historical aspect of of the site, um one
of the things that um that I noticed initially when when um I started working on the project, there are are there are two large holly trees on immediately in front of the building and it's it's almost as if somebody's putting their hand up in front of your face. You're
like, where's the the bit? And the building, of course, is not a grand structure, but it deserves a little better. And and I think those the two holl the two matching holl were probably a good idea at one point in time and as often happens with trees they sort of get get a little bit out of control. So
um uh so in terms of how the the building presents itself to to the road and and and um a passers by or people using the building um it to me given its history I think it needs it needs to have a sort of a a presence and suggest
something really special about the building even you know it's not again it's not St. Paul's Cathedral. It's not the Vatican or whatever, but it's it's an important structure and in fact its modesty in terms of the architecture is actually one of the things that that's
most endearing about it. And so so what what this plan is suggesting is is actually transplanting those two holls, using them for for uh along the northern property line for screening purposes and and having some slightly smaller
planting in front. and then the existing um brick patio uh which seems to be that an area where where um gathering can can take place, but it's also um what I would like to be is is ever so slightly more ceremonial as you walk up to the
building. And so this is showing a little the dark green outline around that that front entrance would be low low evergreens and and the opportunity for some some u perennial or ornamental flowering plants in in front. So, um,
again, we're not trying to make it into an arboritum, uh, but but just when you're giving, u the the visitor an opportunity to have a sense of ceremony from from the street to to the building. Um, there's a large existing uh Dogwood
um to the uh the northwest, which I understand may have had a twin at one time um over to the right of the entrance. uh um I I'm one version of the plan had a added that twin back but um in discussing the uh sort of the
functional needs of the property with the uh the association we decided that that maintaining this southern lawn area more more of an open area where perhaps if someone wanted to erect a tent or or something um like that that that you
would have that that large um um area available. Um and um I did I didn't mention one of the basic I guess important aesthetic aspects here is right now on the uh the southern side of the building is where the trash containers and things are. And so when
you drive by you sort of look at the building and there's the six big cans. So this plan is suggesting extending the brick walkway around around the back. We we could we could store all those behind. And I understand there's u u a an electrogenerator at one
point being being planned. So all of those sort of more functional aspects would be moved to the to the to the back of of the building. Um and uh so uh so all of these things we're we're trying to do with an eye toward making the
building really the center of attention. And as I say it's not it's not a it's not intended to be from a landscape standpoint an arboritum. However, um one of the the horicultural aspects of this and also as an educational component is that we we really do need to to add
landscaping. Um and part of that is just to to provide some screening of the neighbors to be a good neighbor. Um um but also um uh there's the opportunity here especially in light of the fact that it seems like every day we wake up and there's another environmental calamity or something. worrying about,
you know, all the birds who have died because of habitat dis uh uh disturbance or whatnot. Um and even on a small site like this, we have the opportunity um especially if we're adding native plant material to offering a little a little bit of a horicultural
sanctuary. Um and um it, you know, may be modest, but as we know, every little bit of this that that we can can um uh can add is is beneficial. And um and the thought was that a lot of these these plants could actually well number one I
would I would u leave us all with a a a labeled uh planting plan that would have everything that gets planted um labeled. But but we could put physical labels on things um like an arboritum. And if it was children or the garden club or
anyone, um it would be advantageous to to have uh the ability to uh uh see what uh see native plant material um um in a in a setting like this because usually when when projects like this are done, things are done in a very u very formal
manner with a lot of just linear edges and things. And the intention here is not not in any way to uh to create something like that. We really want to work with the infrastructure of existing trees um that are there, the ones that we'll retain when the selective removal
um is done. Um and and speaking of of just growing things, uh one of the the suggestions that the association had was was also on the north side of the building here perhaps having uh the opportunity for a um for a small small garden. That could be something it could
either be a a children's activity or or a garden club activity. Um, and um, I don't know for certain, maybe someone who knows more about the chapel than I do, but there's there is a chance that at some point in the past, um, even in the the late 19th century when the
building was built, that um, that the the the people that were using this structure may very well have grown things on the site, whether it was like the suggestion was that perhaps they grew flowers that would you would use on the altar or something like that. Um I
don't know that we know definitively about that but but um but it's a it's a logical um landscape gesture on a on a site like this. Um the one one other I guess the uh it's not again it's not grand but the the one most visible um
physical change that is suggested here is what you see in the u the southeastern corner is a a paved um terrace um uh relative to what I was saying earlier about the topographic um
uh um uh changes that that you experience on on this about a two to three foot drop engraved from from the uh the southeastern corner of the building to the that that far corner. And so um what this is showing is is a
low circular um seat wall that would would retain the grade and allow for a um a paved terrace that could could that could be could have many many uses. Um um and basically would be would be an all weather um surface. Um the pattern
that you see there by the way is um the suggestion was made that um the uh the uh uh stained glass window that's over the you may be you may be familiar with the building the the circular window at the
top over the front door has that quadrofoil um pattern to it. Um and so the the pattern that that you see on the ground here is a is a uh uh is a representation of that that same shape.
So um and again getting back to what I was mentioning earlier about the historical aspects of something like this. Um again it's not colonial Williamsburg. We're not trying to pretend that we're building something that's not, but um if if having a a usable surface like that um here and
actually gaining a fair amount of real estate is lost right now to that topography um is seems like a a really useful um um um functional improvement to the uh to the site. So the plan also
shows a few there are some benches under under the trees in in various places. Um right now the the uh there's a a bicycle stand right at the front door here. So I've added um at the northwestern corner of the property a small paved area where
where the bike bicycles um could be um could could be stored. And um and so the the the general idea is to to um make the uh the site be complimentary of the architecture without um without creating
something that would be u from a l from a maintenance standpoint a burden. Um u I tell all of my clients it doesn't matter. I mean I can draw Versail gardens for you but if you don't have a hundred full-time gardeners um that's a waste of my time and the paper. So, we
want we want this to be and one of the advantages, by the way, as you probably know of using native plant material is they tend not to they're not boxwood that need to be pruned three times a year and whatnot. And so, uh so from that standpoint, um they're they're they're good for the wildlife. They're
good for aesthetically, but they also have the least well there's no no maintenance as you know landscape, but um but it's a good direction to go in. Um, and so the idea what what I I and I know there's been a lot of discussion about the color of the building also and
that that's not my Bailey Wick necessarily, but my two cents worth it is that the green that that's on there now um which I understand is historically accurate from the late 19th century. Um I think um that that that uh the work being done on the building and
restoring that that pallet and and a relatively simple landscape like this would really create a very desirable um uh amenity for um for the burrow and with I mean it seems like every time we turn around somebody's building
something else as as they are a couple hundred feet away. Um, and so anytime we can retain something like this and improve it without it becoming a a burden from a maintenance standpoint, um, I think that that's a real win for the uh, uh, for the bureau. So um, so
I'm really happy to be involved with it. There's some questions also about future maybe lighting and things like that as well, but um, but that's probably for for a different time. Um, so I are there any questions? Anything I could >> I mean I definitely have a lot of
questions here. Thank you for that presentation and what a beautiful um plan this is. Obviously a lot of time and work went into it. Um so appreciate uh you taking us through it. Um one I didn't hear anything about drainage.
>> Uh is that incorporated in here? >> Yeah. So the the building currently um uh has gutters and leaders and those go into the ground and it's my understanding from the DPW people that
there is a drywell system for the the roof. Um and I think there's maybe one on on each side of the building. So that's the building right. And then uh secondly the um uh as I was mentioning earlier because of the topography the north, the east and the southern
portions of the property do do pitch away. And um and if we were to do um anything in terms of for even even this patio area, we would have to provide some sort of um of simple uh dry well system or or whatever because obviously
we don't want to we don't want to distribute any water onto the onto the neighboring property. I'm actually surprised that the building to the north here has not had uh some questions about that because it's very steep. I've mentioned earlier it's five to six feet of grade change very quickly, right? And
it and it your the property line for this uh site is literally within six to seven feet of their building and they have a little concrete walkway down there. Um how that has not been a drainage issue, I don't I don't know. It may very well be that the soil on this
the this site has enough porocity that even under heavy rain, it's not it's not generating enough to cause a problem for for that neighbor. But but um if I was involved in this when the building was moved there, I would definitely have
have looked into into ensuring that that we're not distributing water onto the neighbors. So um uh doesn't we we should actually inquire with the neighbors to see if uh if there has been an issue and if we can solve it as along with this work
>> um vegetable garden for what like what like usually I see a vegetable garden in a hotel and they use it in their restaurant like what what >> uh I think what we have been sort of kicking around the the association
members is what are the many things that a site like this can offer that maybe you don't have elsewhere or that if it seems as though it is related to the building in some way like I was saying um >> let me rephrase we have a community garden >> yes
>> why do we need a vegetable garden >> yeah I I think well it certainly is not central to the to the plan by any means but uh but if it were a if we were to have some evidence that the original congregation grew things on the site, that would be
something that would be in keeping with the historical nature of it. Um, but it's it's certainly not if not a major gesture on the plan. So again, this is just so everyone understands the consistency in my approach on these
things. I think this is awesome. I do. I also thought the um design for the DPW was awesome, but I also objected to it because I thought it was too much and I thought that it was going to be a lot for us to maintain. I I'm the only thing I'm having a hard time here is I don't
know what's I see you have existing in certain places and there's other places where you're right. I in the next few days I'd like to have a better understanding what's coming in and what's already there. It's hard for me to distinguish from seeing this, but I I you know, it it sounds like the the
historic um you know, uh group that you're working with has has put a lot of funds into this and they've put together this beautiful concept plan as well. Um and I believe that they're donating everything. >> That's correct. Yes. >> Is that accurate?
>> Yes. >> The entire project including the work that's to be done. >> Yes. >> Okay. So that part obviously no problem from our side. We love that. Um I think it's it's on the other end of that you know a year, two years, five years just like anything else in town. I just want
to have a better understanding of who's taking care of these things. You know we're we're we are in DPW and um you know to see something like short evergreen shrubs and I'm imagining them a certain way. Who's keeping them short?
Who's keeping them so they look good? So it's not overgrown. Um you put together a plan like this, you want it to uh succeed not just for the first six months but for years. Is there a succession plan for that that happen? That's the stuff that I probably want to understand better before I really threw
my support because this is pretty it seems pretty involved here. It looks awesome. I I understand that there's some interest on the uh the garden club people about being able to sort of for example the little beds at the entrance
there perennials that's a very manageable uh thing for you know a couple of people on a Saturday morning literally um you know it's something you know sort of 10 by 10 that kind of thing uh but your point is well made that that >> we got and and just to go further we
have the DPW um uh the the botanical gardens at the BBW that we put in last year. Um I'm sure we'll be doing some landscaping down at 21 Fairman Road. That's going to you know, we want it to look nice down there. We're we're adding all these projects. We just got to make
sure it's sustainable moving forward. That's all. Um I'm not looking to put any uh hint of negativity into a plan like this, but I want to be realistic of what our resources are in being able to maintain it. >> Yeah. I mean, and and one of the reasons why I started off saying how we need to
do this selective tree removal push them, you know, over time, if you're just mowing the grass, you know, the IV, as you probably know, just go more and so it's easy for that to happen. Um and and one of the reasons the site looks like it does now is that obviously there
was no no maintenance plan or whatever which there there wouldn't be not to be critical that DPW they were doing what they were asked to be done but uh but going forward you're absolutely correct to do this and then to have someone standing up here before a new council 20 years from now going
>> what the heck were they think I responsible for this >> yeah so we need >> the patio starts moving now we got to take care of the patio you know there's other is conserve but looks thank you for it looks great. >> Can I ask um you mentioned the garden
club a couple of times or who spoken with anybody? uh at our meetings the uh the association members mentioned that that there is some interest I haven't personally >> right that's great yeah it's also there's been a dialogue
>> yeah when when different community groups work together >> question yours more about just confirming >> great great plan love it we have a new tree ordinance that Um the burrow has to
abide by as well as residents. I just want to confirm that a non-hazard tree that comes down they would have to apply correct >> and either replace trees according to the ordinance or put funds in the shade tree commission. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Or or plant plant things elsewhere and also have to be reviewed by our
certified tree expert Sherry Spear. So the burrow is not exempt from the process that anybody else would use. >> Right. Yeah. Yeah. My expectation was I do these tree removal or mitigation plans all over. So yeah, I'm familiar with that process and I would I would prepare that plan for your arburist
review. >> I have a couple questions. So um you're saying most of the ones you're taking out you're or suggesting to take out are dead anyway, right? >> There are there are some there are a number of dead locust. Um, and there are
um there are dozens of little Norway maples that are um that are basically creating such a dense canopy that things can't grow underneath them. And they're actually good trees would actually benefit from having some of the smaller
ones removed. But it's really on a on a tree bytree basis. In fact, we the last time when um the association and I met up on the site, we talked about the fact that um a a tree removal process like that is actually better not done as a logging operation, but rather to have a
first pass where you know the things that really have to come down because the minute you start taking things out of the canopy, something that you thought maybe has to be cut down, well, no, maybe we can it can stay. So, it would it would have to be done in a really kind of judicious, you know, step by step. that would be the best way to
end up with but we obviously don't want to cut down anything that that uh that we don't want and and also one of the things that some people do often is if you cut down all the small trees well 25 years from now when the old ones start to die you don't you need that nursery underneath right for the future so so
trying to find that balance >> if you give Bonnie to cut a tree would you take a picture so I can believe it probably cutting down I was watching often. >> Yeah. >> Are these bushes mostly the ones that are here? These are all proposed is
>> um >> most of these are >> those are Yeah, almost everything on the proposed plant. Yeah. >> And then I I've seen the invasives here. They're pretty bad. Are this plan you're covering all the garden or not the
historic garden even the removal of everything? >> Yeah. Um if I may a couple of things along those lines. Um as you know the historic association you devoted itself to completing the restoration of the council and the mayor council already
committed to their building these the grounds. The um when we interviewed Mr. Crock we told him about this project the board of trustees had already authorized an expenditure adequate enough to cover
Mr. Croskies. He was so taken with the commitment of the community for this building and um has his own interest in this as well from a resident standpoint. He is donating his design services to the burrow.
>> Um, which further enabled the historic association to commit its funds to robust plannings that will more than meet the sites requirements. Um, and to do it in that surgical and intentional way so that we can have an adequate buffer and introduce the neighbors to
what's going to be happening here. Um, and >> I'm gonna end >> Steve. We're going to do 21 Favor Road also. >> I'm really excited about it later, but it seemed appropriate
because I know how this government is and I respect that and I share that concern. Um, and to that end, um, of course, keep in mind anything that's purchased and planted comes with a one-year performance warranty. So, we'll
enjoy that guarantee and things will be replaced if you fail. But um we've gone to the extra length of um engaging Stephen even if there's a cost outside of what he's already donating to prepare um a seasonal maintenance plan that
would address any of those uh concerns that might be slightly outside of normal sort of mowing weeding types of things. And I also agree with what Stephen's saying about the use of natives and that deploying them appropriately. we're not
going to be creating a new major maintenance assignment. And if in fact the board of trustees and to credit them um went out of their way right at the beginning to say we're we cannot create something that we can't take care of. It was one of the major design criteria that was put forth as an initial sort of
six issues. Um and that's an area that's really close to Steven's heart. So if you was happy to take an integrated native plan um design and every everywhere you see a radar is an existing and everywhere you see something green is generally speaking
something new um with the exception of the holls which are relocated over here um and the existing dogwood. Uh and I want to add that there's room for input if this council has something they'd
like um to consider or integrate. Now's the time. Not even just this meeting. You can have our facilities committee meeting if you want. But there's time to incorporate other people's input. So >> So I want to thank you so much for your time. Is there anything else?
>> I just want to say thank you for your time. Thank you to the historic association. I know that they worked really hard on this and I think it's beautiful. Um what if we said yes, like what's the timing kind of on this? Well, the intention if I I and really that's
kind of outside in fairness. Um I've been in coordinating closely with Chris on that because we know that hopefully this government will have an opportunity to put out to bid the final scope of work to finish the repairs and ideally
this work would begin to fall which is a great time to do planting and finish up in time to complete it in the year of our semiquentennial. >> Go ahead. We would we would be going out to bid municipality. >> No, not for this. >> Just on that. >> No, we have to go out to bid on the uh the punch list items that we have the
gold steam partnership working on and we'll find a contractor who would do that one. >> This is thorough. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. Appreciate your time. >> Um next up, I don't know if you want me
to take this or you want to take it. >> Uh do you want to start and I'll add to it? So, uh, new resident, uh, orientation. Um, so just over the course of the last few years, uh, meeting residents around time, around town, a lot of the people that I encounter, uh,
are somewhat new residents. That could mean five years, three years, one year will run into a situation where, um, I'll give you a free plan. For example, um, they say, you know, I didn't know about that. and
I'll say, "Well, we sent that out on the Burough Buzz or we sent that out," which is now the fair newsletter. "Um, are you signed up for Nixls? I didn't know there were nixels. What's my brush and leaf schedule? Let us get your brush and leaf schedule to you." So, the idea
here is maybe to nip some of these in the bud before they get to a point of a new resident not understanding some of the rules we have, policies, calendar dates, guidelines, activities, whatever it may be. running a uh my my thought
was a bianual new resident orientation. We do it like once in July, once in January. We bring them in, we'd have all the department heads here. Um they could each go through a slide or two on the PowerPoint, sort of discuss what they do, what the expectation is of the
resident. Uh they walk away maybe with some some paperwork just to guide them uh if they have any issues moving forward. and we think it might be a nice way to uh facilitate bringing new people
into the community. So >> I think that's a great idea. >> Yes. So just to add a little bit more on it uh touch on some points that Josh did and then again another you know inspiration came the other day. We had a brand new resident who moved into town looking to pay their taxes and said where do I go to pay my taxes and asked
some other questions as well which kind of sparked the topic. And again, when we say new resident too, you know, we're not going to, you know, check the door if you moved in here, you know, over six months. You know, you're sorry, the development brokers are closed. Um, really for any resident, you could get somebody that's been here for four years
and and really doesn't know what's available and what resources we have. And, um, you know, this would be a nice opportunity to offer it. And we could even expand it further. We could have different community groups here too as well, talking about, you know, things maybe the fire department or the first aid or the garden club or even business
associated, different groups. you could be talk maybe give a you know two-minute talk on what they have to offer it how to join those groups as well you know one thing again it's always impressed me about fair haven and I think I said it the first day I was here it's about the volunteerism that we have in this town most towns don't have that and I think
sometimes we forget about that this is an anomaly and I love to see a study on that and I think it'd be a great opportunity too to get people involved in other groups you know whether they want to be on the environmental commission the green team um you know fair haven natural area third street trail all these different things we
have, you know, to get volunteers and to keep, you know, momentum going as well as also knowing what the protocols of the town are. So, when we say new resident, you know, any resident really could be here, you know, to be involved in. I think it's a nice outreach. >> We're all good with us putting something together on this. >> Yeah.
>> Thank you. Um, Chief, if you could join me up front, if you don't mind. So, we have a proclamation here for National Police Week. >> Um, it reads, "Whereas National Police Week in America was created to honor and
recognize the sacrifice and contributions made by police officers and communities both large and small. And whereas the men and women of law enforcement agencies across the United States serve with courage, integrity, and dedication to protecting the lives,
rights, and property of all citizens. And whereas National Police Week provides an opportunity to recognize the invaluable contributions of law enforcement professionals and to honor those officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. And whereas the
15th day of May is known as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and it is fitting and proper to express our deepest gratitude to all law enforcement personnel and to remember the families, friends, and colleagues of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. And whereas the members of the Burough
Fairaven Police Department strengthen our community through service, compassion, professionalism, and partnerships that foster trust, promote public safety. And now therefore, I Josh Alurn, mayor of the Burough Fair Haven, do hereby proclaim the week of May 10th
to 16th, 2026 as National Police Week in the Burough Fair Haven and recognize the police officers of our community and country whose devotion to duty brings safety to all that they serve. >> Thank you. Thank you. Next up, we have public comment on
agenda items only. Please observe a threeminut time limit. Please state your name and address for the record. Anyone with a comment on agenda items only? >> Alison, >> no hands are up. >> Thank you. Approval of minutes. April 27, 2026 special meeting. Do I have a
motion? >> Okay. Allison, may I please have a roll call? >> Council members all Yes. >> Yes. Griffin, >> yes. >> Olen, >> yes. April 27, 2026, executive session. Do I
have a motion? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Allison, may I have a roll call, please? >> Call. Yes. Yes. Yes. >> Yes. Thank you. April 27, 2026 regular meeting. Do I have a motion?
>> Second. Alison, may I please have a roll call? >> Call. >> Yes. Miss, >> yes. >> Yes. >> Olson. >> Yes. Thank you. Old business. Chris entrance. >> So, just an update. Not too much uh to bring up. Our side vendor is working on some additional renderings uh for the
large sign at the entrance by Schwanker's Pond. Uh they did not get it done by the deadline of this meeting. However, I hope to have some additional samples either for the we could do it the 26th, we could do it at the June meeting um and then um and as soon as we have the approval for the other three,
we can go ahead and order those as well. Anything on that? Good. All good. All right. Next up, new business consent agenda resolutions 2026-112 through 119. Before I ask for a motion, does anyone want anything separated?
Does anyone want discussion? Uh, do I have a motion to approve? Motion. >> Second. >> Alison, may I please have a roll call? >> Paul, yes. Sell, >> yes. Griffin, >> yes. >> Yes. Also, >> yes. Thank you. Next up, department
reports, April 2026, municipal clerk, dog license. Do I have a motion to accept? >> Motion. Thank you. >> Motion with a hearty. Thank you. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone opposed? Thank you. Next up, good to of the burrow. Please stand and identify yourself by clearly state your
name and address for the record. Please observe time will go three minutes. Anyone with a good to the burrow. >> Mayor, I just have a couple things. But there's anybody in the public who wants to go first person. >> Anyone in the public the burrow? >> I have one. >> We do have to Let's start with the
public here. Betsy and I are talking about the same thing. She's >> Betsy. >> Betsy calls on the Zoom. Would you like Betsy to start first? Yeah. >> Hello. Can you hear me? >> Yes.
>> Hi, it's Betsy Croll, 146 Fair Haven Road. Um, first I just want to state by saying it's one of the residents with the new sidewalk. What a pleasure it is to walk down the street now. Um, nice even sidewalk. I'm almost looking forward to shoveling it next week, next
winter. Um, but related to that, I just wanted to follow up and Chris and I had emailed briefly last week. Um, but a lot of the neighbors and I have been discussing the notweed that is uh growing in the green
strip. So, I was just uh wanted to ask for an update on that. Um, because a lot of people I'm sure in the room tonight are very aware of just how invasive the notweed is. as someone that a lot of our house is back on Fourth
Creek and we already have quite a big knotweed problem behind us. We don't want one in front of us too and especially now that it's started to grow as soon as the landscapers come in with their weed whackers and start to trim it. It's just going to blow all over.
It's going to get in Marter Park. Um it's going to be a huge issue and it shouldn't be the burden of the town really. It seems like it was um contaminated soil and it seems like the vendor should just come in and remove the soil. It should be a pretty cut and dry thing. I don't think that the burrow
should be having to deal with the burden at all. Um so I'm just wondering what the update is. >> I believe that's what's going to happen. >> Yeah. So um I'll just touch on that and Rich can get into the details. So the vendor um Rich did meet with the vendor last week. Uh the vendor is coming. They are taking full responsibility. They are
going to excavate all of the soil and remove it. Rich can get into the details on it if you want to just step up. >> I walked the site, you know, the area of concern last week with the owner of Discover Construction and also their landscaping subcontractor.
And one of the solutions is we excavate and dig out the soil in the areas where we have some of the knotw weed, put in fresh top soil, and then actually s everything. So then we don't have to put
more grass seed down and worry about it not germinating and getting into the summer months here. So they have us on the schedule for towards the end of this week where they're permitting. I think we have a couple days of rain. So depending on where what they have going
on elsewhere, we should see some action um towards the end of this week. We're going to start at the pond area on our property. Kind of focus on that. see how things are moving before we start jumping over to some of the uh areas in
front of the the houses along Fair Road. >> So, is it going to be taken care of also? >> Yeah. >> All the way up to Buttonwood >> because it's extended to Buttonwood at this point. >> It has. I mean, so it's a big problem. I
know I've talked this a lot about this and I just want to make sure that they're literally excavating everything because that's what we've said from the beginning should have happened. We've known about this for a while and that notweed is is really bad invasive and we're just going to cause more problems for the burrow for all of the
>> So the plan is to start this weed and let's see how that we want to dive into this and see how things progress. >> But what do you mean progress? >> I'm not trying to be hard on you, but like it's already progressed. So, what happened, if you recall, we started the
project last fall. We started down at Ridge Road. >> We worked our way north and we stopped at the last house on the east side right before the pond. There's no contaminated soil there. So, how the knotweed spread
all the way to Buttonwood, you know, we'll certainly take a walk down there, you know, and and take a look if it's if it's isolated um if you have an address but it was
based on the progression of the project shut things down mid December we started back up first week of March we started at Carter Avenue and we worked our way up and then during spring break we jumped over and took
care of the area by Willow Street because of the school and then we went back and did the pond and that's kind of where things that's where that soil is is always the issue. >> Is it possible the scar just get catched their soil from the same place and it didn't come up until the spring
>> once hit >> they actually um >> they sift and and screen their own top soil in their yard. So >> is it >> we'll take I will we will certainly take a look. >> Is is there a concern I just want to make sure I understand what you said though. Is there a concern that someone
did this maliciously? you're saying? >> No. Okay. >> So, so my question then is if it is further down, >> are you saying that it's not as um rampant and maybe it could be taken out little by little? >> My point is it's more concentrated up by
the pond area and >> and you want to get that out first. >> I want to get that out first. >> I just want to make sure we address all though eventually >> respons doesn't sound like it's something we we did. So whatever they have to do financially, I don't really care. >> And that's why and that's why the the
contractors being held responsible for, you know, the notweed, you know, ending up there. Um and and they have not they've not caused any push back at all coming out to excavate. They've had no issues. Obviously, they know they're they're not going to get paid if it doesn't get fixed. There's obviously performance bond issues there. Um there's there's not been one ounce of
push back as far as them saying no, it's not our problem. They take full responsibility. They're going to handle it. I just think that is really important >> that like we I get that they're not pushing back, but like we have known about this for a while. >> We on we all I mean I knew as a lay
person that this should have been excavated at first. So it hasn't been done. I just want to make sure it's going to happen quickly because she Betsy said as they mow it it's just going to spread. It's just going to make a worse make it worse. >> That's exactly right. And Michael, just
also relate to that, the area by the pond, the the town has control over, you know, mowing and and could just let it grow and grow and grow until it gets excavated. All of the green scripts of all of the residents properties, it's, you know, how many different landscapers
are coming in there and they're all going to just go ahead and start to mow it and weed whack it. And that's the stuff that's really going to be the most concerning about spreading. might have just flip-flop your attack plan and do their private property. >> Well, let's say this week these got the
landscapers in a day. They're going to get a ton of work done and that's >> I think you can hear the vigilance wherever they brought in the contaminated bill has to be eliminated. I I hear you saying that's going to happen. It's going to happen. >> Yeah, it's going to happen. >> And leave no stone unturned.
>> Yeah. I mean there we were, you know, the the contractor's committed to doing a full mitigation of all those and obviously if they don't do a full mitigation, then they have to come back again and do more mitigation until it's rectified because obviously, you know, there'll be payment issues. >> But I acknowledge you guys for making sure that you held them accountable.
Yes. Thank you. >> Thank you, Betsy. >> Thank you. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. Good. >> Yeah. I'm Daniel Bets's neighbor 152. So it's Yeah. This stuff is coming up in my green strip. I haven't moved it because I was hoping that the the uh contractor
would do that. So, I'm glad that they're doing it. But >> what's your address again? >> 152. I I walked this evening. It's it's in all of the green strip from Third Street basically down to Bar Hall apart from the one house that wasn't done and
it's coming up everywhere along there. It's not along Macarthur Park. >> Yeah. >> On that side. It's all over the place. Um, and there's still a bit I think is it dogwood lane? There's some that's in somebody's front yard there. Um, but
yeah, if we can get the contractor to deal with it because it's now's the time to get it before it gets established. >> We will and we will make it a priority. >> Right. >> Anyone else? Go to the burrow. >> Just not to
>> name and address, please. >> Bonnie Pilia 115 Baton Road. Um, not to be belabor this, but I think any fragment of knotweed in the soil is a potential problem. So to say that
we're going to remove some of it, I just don't think that's a solution. I think it all has to be taken out. I mean, I it's in the mulch growing on the new trees that are there. It's just it's so incredibly invasive. I mean, I, as I say, in England, you can't sell your
house if you have it in your property. I mean that's it's they treat it much more seriously than we do. Um but it is a problem and I I would also ask that we consider some sort of education for a townwide education because I saw my next
door neighbor's landscapers putting it on the pile of brush that was on the street and I almost had a heart attack. I I >> that's nowhere near just just for the right that's nowhere near but I'm just saying that I think that that would then be picked up. I don't know if it would go to our brush grind. We have it in
Artbrush Crite. It's growing inside there. Um, it's down the trail there. I mean, we just have a problem here. And I just would love to see it recognized and really just educate residents, educate
educate the landscapers. I mean, that that's really huge because they're the ones that are like pulling it out willy-nilly, throwing it, and >> it needs to be bagged and put in the garbage. That one thing. It's really can't be put in the brush grind. We'll be having to send something up.
>> Yeah. And I think to be honest, well, I was just going to say I think you know, you know, Michael's our leazison to the environmental commission actually might be something for you to work on with the environmental commission. Put together a flyer and then we can communicate that out. And also all our landscapers required to register here to burrow. So we have all their contact information
and we can we can send a blast out to them too because obviously they're not going to get our resident information, but we do have their information to get it. So, I think that'd be a really nice collaborative effort if you could work with Kelly at the EC, create a flyer, and then um I think we could put that out and uh so we can educate people and I think it's important.
>> I just I just hope we don't attempt to pick out not. No, >> that is on >> No, we're actually excavating. No, we're going to excavate it. The >> That was a discussion that that was a discussion we had with discover with the discovery contractor. And again, no push back. You don't
>> make sure that doesn't go to our brush brown site. No. And and we're not and we're not going to put it to the curb either. So it'll be >> sure. >> Hi Carolyn Ferguson, 7 airport. Um I was
shopping at the store on Saturday at 4:30 and the noise from Po Yoga filled the entire Eastern business district. Like in front of the bookstore it was very loud and that's 200 feet away. Um it's come to my attention. >> What time is that Caroline? 4:30 on
Saturday >> p.m. You never know. You never know. >> 4:30 a.m. >> Um, but uh it's come to my attention that there is a New Jersey state law about noise and it seems like it's very
straightforward. It says that when you stand on the property line of the noise makers property that it can't be higher than 65 dB during the day. Uh overnight it can't be higher than uh it's limited to 50 dB. Uh you can measure decibb on
an app on your phone. Um, but it's I don't we can't claim to have a nice shopping experience while they're screaming and yelling and >> so you're correct me if I'm wrong. You're talking about a law that's on the
books. You're talking about an enforcement type situation. That's what it sounds like to me. It's not something that we can legislate here based on what you're saying. I think we just you know Chris so I think the best thing to do and I and you want to add to it obviously the
best thing to do again if it's if you have a noise or we have a noise ordinance here in town which governs that I mean police you could call the police department and you know it's a disturbance they could have gone over there and if obviously if they're in violation of noise ordinance and the chief would back it up you know he would obviously have his officers go over there just call the police department
number they could go over there um and uh and do the enforcement on it. Yeah, the issue is is on a Saturday, right, it's we don't have our code enforcement officers working, right? So then it's goes to an education with the police officers. We'll work with the chief um because then it comes into a decel
reading system, right? They have to have the apparatus in order to test it in order for it to stand up in court. That's what I, you know, I'm interested in, right? Is is making sure that, you know, if there are violations that are issued that, you know, we can sustain the burden when it goes to court, right?
So, but noted. >> Yes. And I mean, it's a known problem. It's persisted. Um, like I said, we we want our businesses to succeed. We want people to enjoy coming here. Um, I think the state law is very clear. I I feel
like our ordinance is a little harder to understand exactly what's allowed and not allowed when. Uh, but I think the state law is quite clear. Um, so I just want to make sure that if we refer to it that that will get it forward. >> And I received your email too. You sent it to me. So I appreciate that. Yeah.
Thank you. >> Oh, >> I had a question. >> Go ahead. >> How does the state ordinance act u with our burough ordinance? >> Well, it's clear with decel readings. >> Yeah. I mean, >> what I read was that the municipality
can enforce a more stringent law, but it can't adopt a looser law. But >> speaking of where I was gonna go, I think you and Bets are here. I don't know if anyone else was here, but I'd like to talk about my lazy Sunday at you again. >> I want to talk about our noise.
>> That's what I'm talking about. Lazy Sunday. >> That's the That's the noise. Lazy Sunday. I think on Sundays we should push back all noise till 10:00 a.m. >> So, you think people should be able to wake up without the lawnmowers and the construction and everything going on in town.
You don't like it? >> Is it legal? Why are you eye rolling because you don't like it or because it's not legal? >> The blue laws are legal. It's legal. >> Yeah. >> Make the law. >> All right. It'd be nice. >> Could we see um Mr. So, could we see the
state law that Carol referenced? >> Even if it's just afterwards. >> And like I said, I think that would help to make our business district successful. Isaiah went approached about it or now >> I believe they've been cited numerous times and having gone to court and
>> that that'll be >> yeah we'll discuss later. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> But but obviously again if there's any any disturbance of any business or any residence or anything to come to us contact the police department you know and they can send somebody over to >> Yeah. Honestly when I was there I didn't know if it was allowed or not but then
once I learned about the state well it's clearer. So now >> it's not just specific to one business, any any business or any residence that has noise. Josh decides to blast music at his house. >> Exactly. >> We're calling it anyone.
>> Nice. >> Sure. >> Um I just want to share that the shade tree is doing um for the 250th the big well what are they calling it? The boldest and special trees. So, in honor of the 13 original colonies, they're identifying 13 of them pull this end with special trees around the burrow.
Some of them are on private property and some of them are on public property and they'll have um a sign to be easily identified and a QR code um so you can follow along. And then also, I guess there'll be ribbons or some kind of bunting or something on the trees. Um so stay tuned. They're still working on
finalizing the final trees, right? >> Yes. >> Is that kind of everything? That's it. >> Um, yes. Uh, next Saturday the garden club, 30 garden club is having a rededication ceremony at the heart of the bird sanctuary. Um, all of our
residents are invited to attend and to tour the Harding Bird Sanctuary. The garden of done a phenomenal job fixing up the place with the help of our DPW putting in all native plants and there will be two new memorial benches that
will also be dedicated >> 10 a.m. 16 10 a.m. >> Uh Saturday 10 a.m. >> 10 a.m. 6. I just want to add a little bit on that as well. Well, um, next week is National Public Works Week and, um, we are going to actually be issuing a proclamation similar to we did for the police department, uh, for the public
works and mayor thought it'd be fitting to actually have it at that ceremony because the DPW did contribute a lot of their time as well uh, on that project. So, uh, the DPW be recognized at that event as well. And one more >> and I don't think we mentioned in public
that it was National Clerk's Week last week. >> Yes. Now we got the best in the business. >> With that being said, we're going to move towards adjournment. The time is 8:23 p.m. >> Do I have a motion? >> Motion second.
>> All in favor? I. Anyone opposed?