I don't know. >> I put my ghost. >> Yeah. >> Welcome everyone. Welcome to Franklin's Reorg meeting. Uh I can't call the meeting to order because I don't have enough council people yet. >> That's that's the uh order of the day,
though. Um, I want to welcome everyone here uh for coming and that we have some dignitaries we're lucky to have here. Uh, if this is the worst part of the meeting for me because I'm going to miss somebody. Um, so I'm always nervous
about this, but as far as I know, we have uh Assemblyman Joe Danielson, Assemblyman Kevin Egan, um, Assemblywoman Sharma, uh,
Commissioner Director Chanel Robinson, uh, Commissioner Deputy Director, uh, Melanie Morano couldn't be here, Commissioner S. Sarah Soy, Commissioner Paul Drake, Commissioner Elizabeth Guer,
uh, Surrogate Tina Jalo, Sheriff Darren Russo. Uh, from our board of education, we have Mir Rafi and Nicholas Demiglio. We have Chairwoman Peg Schaefer, Chairman Ron
Jordan, and my wife Lori. Uh if the scouts would come post uh the colors and lead us in the pledge of allegiance. >> We're lucky to have the Cub Scout pack uh 190 195,
Troop 113, and Troop 154. To the flag of America and to the stands, one nation under God, indivisible, liberty, >> liberty, justice. is
good afternoon. It's so great to be here as one of the the the newest uh religious leaders of our community. My name is Father Tom Lonza and I'm the new pastor at St. Matias Parish and School uh right down the road. I just want to uh thank Mayor Kramer, all the newly
appointed assemblymen, uh our new governor, Governor Cheryl, uh and all of our faithful citizens here in the township of Franklin. It's an honor to provide the invocation this year. Let us just pause briefly. Let's quiet our minds and our hearts and reflect and
place this moment within a larger horizon than ourselves. Gracious and provident God, source of all wisdom and truth, gathered today mindful that public service is not merely a position of authority, but a
sacred trust. As scripture reminds us, where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors, there is safety. Proverbs. We give thanks for the willingness of these humble men and women to step
forward as counselors and public servants of this great township of Franklin. We ask your blessing upon these newly elected officials, Ed, Sheepa, Charles, Carl, and James. Grant them clarity of mind, steadfast of
heart, and integrity of purpose. May their deliberations be marked not by division but by discernment, not by self-interest, but by care for the common good. History teaches us that democracy is sustained not only by laws
and institutions, but by character. George Washington noted that the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty rests in the hands of those entrusted with public responsibility.
May that sacred fire burn brightly here, not as a flame that consumes, but as a light that illuminates, guides, and unites. We also lift up, pray for, and recognize the leadership at our state level, Governor Cheryl, as new responsibilities
unfold and the scope of governance expands, we pray for wisdom equal to the moment. In the words of Abraham Lincoln spoken during a time of national trial, he said, "I have been driven many times
upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go." And of course, this is a reference to prayer. May that same humility, awareness of limits and pursuit of higher wisdom shape all who govern
during our time. Spirit of justice remind our leaders that authority is most authentic when it listens. As St. Augustine creatively observed he had this interesting thing to say. He
said hope has two beautiful daughters. One is anger and not a a mean or bad anger but a righteous anger and the second is courage. Anger at injustice and courage to implement change. May our
officials be rightly troubled by injustice, yet always guided by courage rooted in compassion. Let their work be animated by hope rather than fear, by truth rather than expediency.
Bless the people of Franklin Township. Form us into a community that is engaged, patient, and generous. Help us to hold our leaders accountable while also supporting them with prayer, dialogue, and goodwill. And may we
remember that civic life is a shared responsibility and that the health of our township depends not only on those elected, but on the daily choices of all who call Franklin Township home. Finally, oh God, grant that the work
begun here contribute to a future marked by peace, fairness, and opportunity. And may a shared vision of hope, truth, and authenticity guide every vote cast, every policy shaped, and every decision
made in service of our people. And we offer this prayer in gratitude for the past, hope for the future, and trust in the enduring call to serve one another with both wisdom and love. Amen. >> Amen.
>> Thank you. Everyone be please be seated. Uh, I think I forgot to mention Pendra Chevakula is here, former councilman, former assemblyman, former commissioner of the BPU. Um, if you look carefully around the room, you might notice a
Naval Academy graduate, helicopter pilot, uh, London School of Economics graduate, Arabic speaking, Georgetown Law School graduate, uh, federal uh, prosecutor, congresswoman, and uh, governor elect.
Uh, but her most important job that she uh, ever had is the mother of four children. So, a lot of accomplishments uh uh to be proud of. Um the woman just
can't keep a job. And who knows where she'll be in seven or 11 years from now. Um okay. Uh it's now my pleasure for the best part of this whole show, the Maragolds.
Please come vote forward. Are you Let her walk around. Just have the microphone. That's right. By the dawn early, what proud we
at the twilight last so gallant ly stream and the rocks prove the night there.
Oh, say that star spangle better and for the land of the free of the brave
warrior. Kids made me cry. So, I wanted you to see that and hear that because they are so spectacular. Franklin is a special place and we have an incredible arts department. Uh and
the the problem always is that when that education is expensive and there's always reasons to cut and unfortunately what they often cut first are the arts. So we try to maintain that. We've sent
people to Broadway. People have gotten Tony awards from uh our high school. So just remember Franklin and remember our arts group. If you could come here, please come up, please.
>> Um, I also want to present to you two of the uh commemorative coins that we've had struck. Glenn McFarland designed them that are challenge coins for our Franklin 250
um festivities. We're having several uh various activities. Tomorrow is conference on horseback reenactment and in a week from today at 7 o'clock in the evening at our high school, the Magical
will be singing again and it's a salute to America. It's $10. I'll pay for you if you come. >> Thank you. >> One is for you and one if there's a archive for New Jersey. We'd appreciate it. Okay.
>> Pictures up there and proceeds from their sales go to uh the celebration. So, anyone wants to buy them, let me know. Now, would you give us the honor of telling us some words of wisdom because we're in badly in need of them.
>> Well, thank you so much, Mayor. I really appreciate it and what an honor to be here and the magical were really really beautiful this morning. Our boy scouts did such a great job. It it makes you feel so great about public service when you see the kids that are relying upon
your work. So it's it's just such an amazing experience to be here today with all of you. Um and thank you mayor also for introducing everyone. That's always the the toughest part of any remarks because you always worry about missing
someone. So, um I'm so excited to hear about everybody that came out today. It's wonderful to see this room filled standing room only to come out and support those people that are going to work so hard to support all of us. Um,
as somebody who served this country my entire life, you can imagine that public service means a lot to me. And I don't regard it as a job. I regard it as a calling. And I know every single person who's about to take that oath. And I see people shaking their heads who have
taken the oath before feel that exact same way. And here in New Jersey at the dawn of the 250th anniversary of this great nation, to see so many people once again being
willing to step up and fight hard for our families, for our kids, for the future of this great state and our country to lay down a marker that here in New Jersey, we know exactly who we
are and what we stand for and we have a vision of how we're going going to fight hard for those values that have always meant so much to us as patriots in this country. And that we know that there is no better place in this nation to lay down that marker than the very place
that just a couple weeks ago we celebrated the anniversary of the battle that changed the whole fate of our nation in Trenton. So I could not be more proud to be here. There is no bigger honor than giving the oath to people who are stepping up to serve. And
I want to thank each and every one of you for coming out today to show your support for the future of our state. So, thank you all so much. I sincerely appreciate it. And now I think what you've really been waiting for and are coming here to see.
>> If we could have Mr. Patasnik for first ward. You have the >> clerk has it in her hand. >> Oh, good. Okay. >> Always prepared. >> You're the first victim.
Thank you. Wonderful to see you both. >> All right. Um, so please raise your right hand and repeat after me. I, Ed Pataznik, >> I, Ed Pataznic, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear
>> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith >> and that I will bear true faith >> and allegiance to the same.
>> and allegiance to the same >> and to the governments established in this state. and to the governments established in this state >> and in the United States >> and in the United States >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully
>> and that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of council member Ward 1 >> of council member Ward one >> of the township of Franklin >> of the township of Franklin
>> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations Thank you. Super uding ward two. All right, please raise your right hand and repeat after me. I Shea Udin
>> do solemnly swearly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith
>> and allegiance >> to the same >> and to the governments established in the United States >> established in the United States and in this state >> and in this state under the authority of the people under the people
>> and that I will faithfully >> I will faithfully >> impartially >> and justly >> andly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of council member W 2 >> council member W >> of the township of Franklin >> Township of Franklin
>> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability >> so help me God >> so help me God >> congratulations You want to do a picture. >> All right. Congratulations >> Mr. Charles Oni Jaka board three on Jaka
>> Bible. Please raise your right hand and repeat after me. I Charles Oni Jaka >> I Charles >> do solemnly swear >> do >> solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution
>> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith >> I will bear true faith >> and allegiance >> allegiance
>> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments >> and to the government >> established >> in the United States >> United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people
>> and that I will faithfully >> I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform >> all the duties >> all the duties >> of council member Ward three >> of council member war three >> of the township of Franklin
>> of the township according to the best of my ability. >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations. >> Carl Wright. Ward four. So cute. >> Okay.
Here's the Bible. >> Okay. >> Hi. How are you? >> I'm Carl. This is my wife. >> And I don't know who these people are, but they're here. >> All right. Well, let's get this done then. Um, raise your right hand and
repeat after me, please. I, Carl R. A. Wright >> I, Carl A. Right. >> Do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution
>> the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith >> I will bear true faith >> and allegiance >> allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments >> to the government >> established in the United States >> established in the United States
>> and in this state >> in this under the authority of the people. >> under the authority of the people. >> And that I will faithfully >> faithfully >> impartially >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties
>> of council member Ward 4 >> of council member Ward 4 >> of the township of Franklin >> of the township of >> according to the best of my ability. >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations. Okay, now everybody.
>> There we go. >> James Vasinella, ward five. Bible. >> That's the one, Jim. >> Not the one with the Hebrew on it. >> Okay. Raise your right hand.
I, James Bassinella, >> I, James Bassinella, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of this state >> of this state
>> and that I will bear true faith >> and I will bear true faith >> and allegiance to the same >> and allegiance to the same >> and to the governments >> and to the governments >> established in the United States >> established in the United and in this state >> and and in this state >> under the authority of the people
>> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully >> and >> I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of council member Ward 5 >> of council member Ward 5 >> of the township of Franklin
>> of the township of Franklin >> according to the best of my abilities >> according to the best of my abilities. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations. Well, they're posing for the picture. I'd like all elected officials and uh
the uh chairman and chairwoman to come to the front of the room so we can get one picture of everyone together. >> Oh, okay. >> Need another picture. Should I?
>> Everybody. Okay, everybody look right this way. Count, two, three. No talking. Count of three. One, two, three. One more. Hold it. >> Talking to Democrats. PJ Welcome aboard longer
I'm going to move it once everybody's out of the way. I'll put it back. I'll leave it. >> I'll leave it in the right direction. already putting you to work. >> Look, they had it wrong.
>> He says Oh, no. You're right. You're right. I read I wrote here cuz I had this up here. >> We're going to nominate Alex, right? >> Yeah. >> And she was late. >> Oh, I need a pen. Who has a pen? >> Glad to see you.
>> Thank Can I borrow your pen when you're done? >> Yeah. >> Do we put our personal here or our counsel? >> It should be our council. Okay. Back to you anytime soon? >> No.
Now, this meeting of the Township of Franklin Reorganization meeting is called to order. Madame Clerk, >> in accordance with the Open Public Meeting Act of the State of New Jersey, adequate notice of this reorganization meeting of the Franklin Township Council
was made as required, indicating that this meeting would take place at the municipal building at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026. >> Please call the role. >> Councilman Embarrison.
>> Councilman Embarrison is here by now. I heard him say here. >> I saw him wave. >> Councilwoman Francois >> here. >> Councilman Karazzi >> here. >> Mayor Kramer >> here. >> Councilman Oni Jaka >> here. >> Council member Bataznik. >> Councilwoman Udine
>> here. >> Councilman Vasinella >> here. >> Councilman Wright >> here. >> It's now time for remarks from the uh candidates or the newly sworn in. And we'll do it in ward ward order of course. Councilman, Council Member
Tasman. >> So, good afternoon everyone. Uh, it's great to be here. First, I just want to say uh thank you uh to all the folks that were able to support my election. Uh there's quite a long list. Uh, it's our Democratic chair, our campaign
manager, which is Patrick Murray, my partner, John, and our family, all our friends and supporters. It means a ton. It's an honor to be reelected. It's really truly an inspiration to be sworn in by Governor Electrol, New Jerseyy's
second female governor, first Democratic female governor. Um, and we have a lot more work to do in our state and I know that this council, my work with her along with my colleagues is uh just tremendous
for our future. Um, I want to share a little bit of a story with you. I'm wearing a pin today. Um, you can't really see it where you are, so I'll describe it. And if you're watching at home, you probably never be able to see it because it's always a little fuzzy on Xfinity Comcast. The the pixels are not
so good. But um it's an American flag and on the front of it is the Statue of Liberty. And this originates from my father and my mother both now uh departed back to the bicesentennial
which was in 1976. And I remember where we celebrated which was Liberty State Park. Yes. >> And if you're thinking, "Oh my gosh, this guy celebrated the bsentennial. Just see me afterwards. I'll give you a nice big hug and a kiss. I appreciate you. I love you for thinking that I'm not old enough to have been around at
that time. Um, it means a lot. >> Um, it was a real special time for our nation because >> we were like we are today in a lot of ways going through some pretty difficult times. >> Um, I don't remember because I was little, but I remember the stories of
rationing and fuel prices and different sorts of struggles that hit our economy and how the politics were dividing people. And the bsentennial had an opportunity to bring people together and it did that. And I'm hopeful that the
semi-quincentennial that we're embarking on this year can do that once again for us that we can look across political divisions and bring people together for why we were founded in our nation. lots of different ideas that were very
radical to stand up to tyranny and become an independent nation to forge a future for ourselves. One that was welcoming for immigrants, the Statue of Liberty on the backdrop of the American flag, which is its own identity, an over
time changing all the time. And then fast forward to 1986 um in May uh it was the 25th so it would have been Memorial Day when this same imagery came up in my family again for something called Hands Across America when people were starving in Africa and
Americans got together and linked arms. I don't think it actually worked but it came close to working. almost 8 million people join forces to link arms and raise money for people outside of our nation to help them that were going through famine to do things for others
again in unity and my father had then this so I should tell you the first thing was a t-shirt that was printed with this image and then he took that image and turned it into this pin which surprisingly in the 80s wasn't made in China it was made in Wayne New Jersey so kudos to my dad uh for keeping it made
in America. He was uh very big on unions and also very different politics than me. Um uh very different politics than me, which is another um reason to sort of share a little bit about that story. We can, I think, in the 250th
anniversary with New Jersey being the crossroads of the revolution, find ways to weave ourselves back together again, even with what's happening in Washington with a particular individual who is trying to do everything they can to tear
us apart, fight back in our own way by just sharing history, by sharing our past, and by talking and getting to know one another. And I think that's a huge opportunity. I'm going to share a few dates. It's reminiscent of what the mayor shared and I'm not going to share
too much else. Um, one is that tomorrow Franklin and I want to thank the members of the committee who are on the semiquentennial, the 250th anniversary celebration uh um work that they put together. But the event starts with the Princeton Battlefield. It's a reenactment in the
morning and it's like $10 and you can go and they'll be microphoned and you can hear the battles and what they're saying. And then later if you're into food and drink like me, you can join us at Enotra for a lunch which will also have some speaking about what the day
was about. And then they're going to do the conference on horseback live. So 27 will be closed. Sorry if you're trying to go between Princeton and Ruters. um you won't be able to get through and they'll have microphone conversation with General Washington and um some of his confidant soldiers about the
conversations that were going on and that's going to be free at the Presbyterian uh church um in Kingston. That's at 2:30. And then on the 10th there's a big concert that's going to happen at the high school. It's called A Salute to America, a night in song. And
that's really just in the first two weeks of January with more events scheduled throughout the year. an opportunity for all of us to come together, Republicans and Democrats and independents, people that are apolitical that just care about America. So, I just implore you as we embark on this 2026 to
use this as an opportunity to come together, forge a path forward that's different, but also protective for our kids and our grandkids because that's what our parents did for us like my father and my mother and that's the legacy we can
leave for our kids. So, thank you, >> Council Member Shipa Udin. Greetings and good afternoon. If you're visiting today, welcome to my home, Franklin Township. I'm deeply honored to serve you as your council woman for this great community.
I promise to remain hardworking, effective, and honest leader. You deserve one who listens, one who shows up, and one who takes action. Above all, I will always stand for one simple truth. This city belongs to all of us.
Everyone deserves to feel respected, valued, and welcomed here. And look around you. The amount of diversity in Franklin that sets us apart among so many other communities. The spirit of unity is what makes
Franklin strong. In fact, it is what carries us through difficult times. And it is why together we will continue to build a township where opportunities shared, voices are heard, and no one is left behind. As
your councilman, I will keep fighting for safe neighborhoods. I will continue to open warehouse expansions, support responsible development, work to stabilize taxes, keep Franklin affordable, protect our open space, and
maintain our roads. I look forward to bringing on some popular education awareness workshops for seniors and all folks such as fraud and scam prevention program and health and financial seminars. Before I close, I want to thank the
people who made this journey possible. I thank God for his guidance and strength. I thank my parents for the foundation they gave me. I thank my dear husband who keeps our home in peace and my children Sam and Eli who inspire
me every day. I thank my siblings especially me brothers who are always there for me at every step as Ze and Zalah. My in-laws and my friends for jumping in and support me whenever I needed the most including the entire campaign team the
amazing JFK club members um and just war I residents who have become my family now. Thanks to my council peers and staff for the great partnership. Thank you to Assemblywoman Shama Haidar and Governor Mikey Sheriff for taking the time out to
swore me in today. Folks, today is not just about asseming. It represents the power of women and leadership. Women who lead with courage, compassion, and purpose. You see, when women rise, communities rise.
War two to that. Together we will continue writing the story of Franklin Township. A story of courage, inclusion, and unwaving community pride. >> Thank you. God bless you and God bless Franklin Township. And may God bless me
on this new journey to serve you. Uh, Charles Oniaka, Ward Three. >> Good afternoon all. Most especially, let me give thanks to my friends, most my wife, my friends
that are here today and my party members >> that supported me through all this hard time, >> tough election, but finally finally we won all. I sincerely thank my third world
for the confidence they have placed on me to serve them as the councilman. No doubt my performance responsibility with humanity and focus for fully
pay for the time in the office. I am aware that the work in future is great. I step into this role as a councilman not for recognition but in service to
Franklin and humanity. I understand the strength we have in Franklin and that is our unity and diversity. So u I want to promise you all I will discharge my duty as I've
been doing. This is not the first time. This is not the second time. This is not the fourth time. I'm familiar with Franklin and I'm familiar with the politics. So I'm promising you that I will do all I've been doing before. No change instead
more to what I have done. Thank you all. May God bless you all. Carl Carl Wright, Ward 4. Hello. Yes, I took the long way around. Uh, let me get my uh sp a big speech here. I want everybody to get a, you
know, a good taste of this. First and foremost, I would like to thank everyone in town who lives in the fourth ward for once again electing me fourth W councilman. So, for them, thank you for them.
Also, I'm only a phone call away or an email only if Miss McCarthy puts the phone call through. Now, once again, I have the distinct pleasure of sitting in the corner. Now, Carl, why is that a a good thing to do?
Well, first of all, you had a camera shot so they don't see you. Number two, I let everybody else here do all the talking for me. But most importantly, I sit next to our master clerk, Miss Amarie McCarthy. So whenever I don't
understand something, I have the person right there who knows, Miss Amarie. So let's give Miss Amarie a phone. Here we go. Let's give her a big hand. Now, my wife Wendy, my son Carl II, I am missing my eldest, which is Brun and her
husband and her three kids, Sha Nefitari. Shawn II, Neferturi, and Amora, and my short, which is Sterling. See, if I don't get all those names in, I'm going to get talked about when I get home. Uh, that's it.
Thank you. Jane James Vasinella. Award five. sometimes hard to find them too. We love you, Carl. Okay, so I wrote this down. Bear with me here. A few comments to make. So, first of all, thank you all for coming here today. My four grandparents, Luchia Burro, Luchiano
Vasinelli, Anna Dustphano, and Joseph Clemente all came to America from Italy in the early 1900s. Fast forward a few decades and since the 1950s, various family of mine have lived and continue to live in Franklin. It has been my home for over 60 years. The last 24 years,
I've been fortunate to have spent a lot of time in this room. First as a resident and then as a council member. These chambers, this room, it's a heartbeat of Franklin's government. Council and other boards discuss and debate many issues right here, right in this room. Facts, emotions, and opinions
often swirl around this room in pursuit of finding a common ground for the common good. It is seldom easy and sometimes messy, but it is necessary to find consensus before making policy that affects the lives of our residents. We we have many accomplished public servants in this room today. You look
around, it's I'm almost embarrassed there's so many public accomplished public servants in this room today and I really appreciate you being here. It is a great day to be in Franklin and it's a great day to be a public servant in Franklin. There are so many different individuals who serve the people of this town. Employees, volunteers, elected
officials, civilian appointees, philanthropists, our youth, the list goes on. The one common denominator seems to be at the core of all these meaningful efforts to serve, I believe, is treating everyone equal. That is what we do best in Franklin. Treat each other
with the mutual respect and compassion. No matter what someone's religion, education, ethnicity, financial status, and so on, everyone's voices are heard, their opinions are respected, and their needs considered no less than anyone else's. I look forward to continue serving as
your fifth ward council member. I appreciate this opportunity. The next few years will be a very busy time for Franklin. Several million federal dollars are slated for revamping of Eastn Avenue corridor and most of Hamilton Street in order to make these roadways safer. We will be implementing Franklin's newest affordable housing
plan, which is the envy of many towns in New Jersey. We will be constructing the long- aaited for Katapa Park in the southern part of town. To celebrate America's 250th anniversary, Franklin will be hosting several great events that highlight our town's important role in our nation's struggle for
independence. We will also be completing several underground above ground infrastructure project and Franklin's first micro reforestation project. We will continue to fight against unneeded and unhealthy development and to improve the quality of life for all residents. It is a great day today in Franklin and
it will be a great day tomorrow in Franklin. God bless and thank you. >> The next order of business is to choose a deputy mayor. Do I have a nomination for deputy mayor? >> Yes, mayor. I do have a nomination. It is my honor
to nominate my good friend, brother, Councilman Alex Kurazzi, as deputy mayor for 2026. It is a one-year term, and I know he'll do a great job. >> Are there any other nominations?
Hearing none, >> we need to do roll call. We have to do roll call. >> We don't. We can do it by acclamation. >> Okay. >> So, um, all in favor of, uh, Alex Kurazzi as deputy mayor, say I.
>> I. Say. >> Congratulations. If you could if you could say a few words for we'll take the oath and then say a few words. Anybody from I have a few of my members of my families. Anybody wishes to come, please
come forward. >> Like that. >> I Alex Karazzi >> do solemnly swear. the Constitution of the United States >> that I support the Constitution of United States >> the Constitution of the State of New Jersey
>> and the Constitution of State of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> and I bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the government established >> to the government established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> in the state >> and the state >> under the authority of the people
>> under the authority of the people >> and I will faithfully >> and I will faithfully >> impartially >> justly perform >> and justly perform >> all the duties of deputy mayor >> all the duties of deputy mayor >> township >> of the township of Franklin >> to the best of my ability
>> according to the best of my ability. So help me God. They're my daughter. Is that my niece? >> Okay. >> All right. Thank you. Good afternoon and happy new year everyone. And let me first
congratulate my colleagues that they sworn before me. And thank you Mr. Mayor, council members, honorable guests, my family members, and my wife who couldn't be here because she's in Canada taking care of our newly born
granddaughter. Thank you students and staff from Saddak School, members of Mashid Ali, my neighbors and other friends who are here. Uh I am deeply grateful for your presence here today and I'm honored by
the trust placed in me to serve as deputy mayor in Franklin Township. I accept this responsibility with humility and dedication. This township is not just the place where I serve. It is my home.
And what a journey I have had in life. In 15 days, I will be 72 years old. I was born in a little town up in northwest of Iran. The only city that you can find with the two million population, but you can't find any pan
panhandler or beggar. And go and Google it. You'll find the name. And I was a one member of the nine siblings and with a father who had a business and I sometimes struggled but I was able to
be the the top student in one of the best stu colleges or universities in Iran. Got a scholarship. Went to Berkeley California and in 1981 moved to New Jersey. And ever since I love this
state 1986 came to Franklin and I have been at Franklin. My three daughters were born here, went to public school and you saw a couple of them here. So, I'm very proud of being spending more than half my life in Franklin, and it's
a town that I truly love. And I have witnessed this township to uh grow and become the second most diverse township in the state of New Jersey. Like mayor and council members, I care
deeply about keeping our neighbors safe, our environment clean, making sure our tax dollars are used wisely, helping businesses grow, promoting unity and mutual respect among
our diverse community, and supporting programs to achieve and improved health equity and food security. I pledge to listen, to lead with integrity, and to make thoughtful and balanced
decisions that reflect the needs of our entire community. Thank you everyone, and God bless you and God bless Franklin. For those of you keeping track, it's 7° up at the podium here. Um
>> I think it's minus >> 7us >> Celsius. >> Um next order of business is public discussion. Uh I ask for unanimous consent to open to the public.
Without objection, we are open to the public. Three minutes each. Uh no yielding of time. May only speak once. Uh, and uh, I will ask public officials to go first and I won't limit their time. That's a mistake.
>> No, I will be brief. Mayor and council, happy new year. Congratulations on those being reelected. On behalf of the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners, we say we are walking with you, alongside you, and partnering with you to continue to allow Franklin
to be one of the best places to live. Diversity is our strength, and unity is our power. And we all know so well, as the governor electing, and you have answered the call. So, may you continue to be good servant leaders
uh for the community of Franklin. God bless you all. God bless the state of New Jersey and God bless America. Anyone else wishing to speak? >> Did you >> go ahead, >> Mr. Mayor? Me, members of town council, my name is Ron Jordan. I'm the
Democratic chair. I just wanted to say it's been a pleasure working with you. I know how hard you guys work and this is the pomp and the circumstances. This is the bright lights of council, but I know it's a lot of hard work. It's a lot of means, a lot of time away from your family. I look forward to doing my part to help you guys to push Franklin forward. So, God bless and let's have a
great year. >> Thank you. Hi, my name is Dina Lux. As president of the JFK Democratic Club in Franklin Township, I want to congratulate all of you. We will continue working with each
and every one of you to make Franklin a better place, a stellar place, and we appreciate your involvement in the club and in um being just being there for us. Thank you so much and congratulations
and happy new year. >> Thank you. >> Uh thank you mayor and council members. Also congratulations to all the newly elected members. Uh I just wanted to say happy new year to all of us. And I've been uh living in Franklin for many many
years and I had served different roles in the state of New Jersey. I always cherish Franklin Townships being the most diverse township in in New Jersey. Well, as when I was in the council in 1998,
uh we celebrated the bicesentennial uh celebration for the Franklin Township because Franklin Township was incorporated on February 20th, 17 what is that? Yeah. 178 >> right there.
>> Right. a senior moment, right? The council member said he's 72, I am 75, so you know, you can allow me that mistake. Yeah. So, you know, we uh we put together a bsentennial celebration
committee and we celebrated the colonial history of the United States of America and I was the chairman of that and when I was going around people were asking me who are you an immigrant from India celebrating the colonial history of the United States of America. I said that's
what America God bless America. Thank you. >> Good afternoon everyone. The name is uh Dr. Babs Amalola. Uh a former member of the planning board of this township. Uh if you know it was reported a couple
of two years ago that Fen Township is the fifth best place to live in America. Now I want to tell you from 2026 based on the determination I'm seeing on the faces of these gentlemen and and ladies
fragrant township is going to be the best place to live in US. Happy New Year's uh the recent member member of the uh board planning board and also uh the township. I wish you guys good luck and the determination I
see in your face bas I know each and every one of them. I know what they're capable of doing and I can tell you without doubt that you are going to get the best in this township going forward. Thank you guys. >> Seeing no one come. Oh,
>> hello everybody. Doc Cunningham from uh Stalc Court Somerset. Again, I want to add my comments and words of congratulations to the swearing in of our new uh council members. as I listened to their presentations, I I I
had to say to myself, how could we not have a smile on our faces when we heard those stories of service? So, it's great to be here and to be part of this discussion. I'll also be brief as, as some of you know, it it can be a little challenging for me, but uh what I'd like
to do is is is spend a little time helping us think about what 2026 might mean for us as a nation and as a community. Whether you're an immigrant like myself and others who have uh introduced themselves earlier or whether you're a nativeborn American, as many of
you know, much of what I do involves connecting the dots across history, civics, and culture. And so you might wonder why is that important now in the time that we live in. I don't have all the time, but let me give you a quick example. When you think about America's
journey over the past 250 years, we've gone through seven phases from settlement to slavery to independence to civil war to reconstruction to segregation to civil rights. I believe
we are at a turning point which might represent another phase and you heard the word constitution mentioned quite a few times today. I believe we're entering a phase that might be considered the reconstitution of America. Not so much involved with
rewriting the Constitution, but to draw lessons from the past that might allow us to rock civic smarts in the future. Let me close by leaving you with this. Many of you know that in 1776,
Thomas Payne wrote the book Common Sense, which set the stage and made the case for the Declaration of Independence and America's founding. Fast forward to 1958 or so, Dr. King
wrote a book that was instrumental in inspiring young people to turn up in our nation in the areas of civic engagement and social impact. Well, here we are in 2026 and you can anticipate more
information coming from my neck of the woods that speaks to and makes the case for America's next chapter and what's being called the declaration of emergence. Thanks again for your time. I appreciate it. Good afternoon everyone. My name is
Sharma. I'm Assemblywoman from district 37 in Bergen County. I assure you, mayor, I got a visa to come to your county. So I'm legal here. I came to support my dear friend Sheepa. But I also want to say as chair of the children, families and food security
committee in the assembly, I have worked with the Franklin Food Bank. And in there you have an institution you can be absolutely proud of. I cite it as an example to other food pantries and food banks. I think they do an absolutely
fantastic awesome job in in the field of food security and far beyond it. So congratulations to all of you for having such fantastic institutions in your neighborhood and happy new year to all. Hi, Alex Clark, 396 Hamilton Street.
Happy New Year and congratulations to those of you who are sworn in today. I'm confident that you all do very well in the coming year. Um, last at last council meeting in December, I was speaking about rank choice voting as I have been doing uh several times. Uh, Councilman Vasinel, you said that you wanted to have some kind of a town hall
kind of a discussion. Uh, well, I'm giving you what you asked for. So, uh, on Voter Choice New Jersey is presenting to the JFK Club on Monday, January 12th. That's at 6:45 at the senior center like
usual. And so, that's going to be a opportunity to have a complete presentation and a Q&A, a more thorough discussion. And in addition to that, Photo Trace New Jersey is presenting to Indivisible Highland Park. Um, and this
is going to be a rank the desserts event. where we bring desserts and the voters will try them. They'll fill out their ballot and they'll be able to see how the tablation process works. So, that will be on Thursday, January 22nd at 6
PM at the Reformed Church of Highland Park. So, I hope to see uh some of you at at some of these events. Thank you. >> Thank you. Now seeing no one come forward, ask for uni unanimous consent to close the public portion.
Without objection, public session is closed. I don't think we have anything to answer. So we're on to item number 14 of the agenda. Agendas are available up here. Uh 2026 appointment of attorneys
and other professionals. Uh a uh nominations for township attorney. Do we have a nomination? >> Mary, I Yes, we do. I would like to nominate Mr. Luise Rayon from Rainon Coughlin
Michel LLC to be the attorney for our township. >> Any other nominations for this position? Hearing none, I'm closing nominations. Uh, all in favor of Mr. Reon say I.
>> I. >> Oppose. Say nay. Motion is carried. Congratulations, Mr. Renown. >> Squeaked it out. >> It's where it used to be. Thank you. I, Louis, >> I, Louis Reno, >> doly swear
>> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> in the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. I will bear true faith and allegiance >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> to the government established
>> and to the government established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> and justice >> impartially and justly perform >> all the duties of attorney >> all the duties of t attorney
>> the Franklin >> according to the best my ability so help me God Oh, good. Someone else will tell me how I'm making a mistake. Next is nominations for tax appeal council. Uh, I would like to nominate
Michael Burns, Esquire or from Reno and Coughlin Machello LLC. Are there any other nominations? Seeing none, we can do it by acclamation. All in favor say I. >> I.
>> Oppos say nay. Motion is carried. Congratulations, Mr. Burns. >> Nomination for township auditor. Are there any nominations? Um, yes, Mayor. I'd like to
Sorry, just finding it on the page here. Robert Swisser as township auditor. >> Thank you >> from Sly Cooney and Company. Looney and company. And are there any other
nominations? All in favor say I. >> I. >> Post say nay. >> I motion is carried. Um, nominations for township engineer. >> Does anyone have a nomination?
>> Mayor, uh, can you hear me? >> Yes. >> Yes, we can. >> Okay. Uh, mayor, I'd like to nominate Center State Engineering, Rob Russo of Center State Engineering as a Township Engineer.
>> Any other nominations? >> All in favor say I. Oppos. >> Motion is carried. Congratulations. >> Appointment to municipal court judge three-year term ending December 31st, 2028.
>> Um, do we have a nomination for court judge? >> Judge, >> mayor, I'd like to nominate Steven H. Fleer from the law offices of Steven H. Flic. Do >> you have any other nominations? All in favor say I.
>> I. >> Oppos say they. >> Congratulations, Mr. Fleer. Nominations for township prosecutors. >> Yes, mayor. I would like to nominate
Muhammad Jallo. >> Any other nominations? That's Muhammad Charalo of Chalo and Jalo. Um, any other nominations? All in favor say I.
>> I. Post say nay. >> Motion is carried. Nominations for associate township prosecutor. >> I move Norman W. Albert Esquire from the law office of Norman W. Albert.
Any other nominations? >> All in favor say I. >> I. >> Post say I. >> Motion is carried. Congratulations. Are there any nominations for um the uh assistant
>> prosecutor? >> I nominate Ryan V. Albert Esquire from the law office of Norman W. Albert for assistant >> prosecutor. >> Uh excuse me for alternate prosecutor. the other a >> any any other nominations.
>> That's different. >> All in favor say I. >> I say nay. >> Congratulations, Mr. Albert. >> Nominations for public defender. >> I'd like to nominate Dennis Oiello from
Dennis A. Oiello Enter uh Esquire for the position of public defender. >> Any other nominations for public defender? All in favor say I. >> I. >> Post say nay. >> I. >> Motion is carried. Congratulations Mr.
Oiello. Item number 16, boards, committees, commissions, appointments, and reappointments. I'd like to uh look ask for a motion for resolution 2601, appointment of standing committees. 2602 council leaison
representatives to various boards and committees. 2603 reappoint of various boards and committees and 2604 appointment of members to the various boards and committees. >> So moved. >> Seconded.
>> Moved and seconded. Any discussion? >> All in favor say I. >> I. Say I. they are uh congratulations to all those people. Uh for my mayoral appointments for the library trustees, I'm going to
reappoint uh Agnes Kulibama uh for the um my designated uh trustee um Deborah um Kelly and for my class one member on the planning board
uh Lour. Um, it's time for council comments. We've all kind of spoken already. Is there anyone with a dying urge to say something? I just want to remind uh count council um conference on horseback tomorrow in
Kingston and a week from today at the high school. Uh, salute to America. Um, manager, you have any report? I no I just want to congratulate everyone. I have no report. I think this is uh been
a very nice afternoon and I'm glad we were able to all get together here and celebrate the five council members who got reelected. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Uh time to pay the bills. Approval of the warrants. 23,200,514.71
on December 31st. call on January 3rd are presented to the township council for payment to have a motion on the minutes on the warrants. >> I move that the warrants is read be paid. >> Second.
>> Any discussion? Madame clerk. >> Councilman embarrass. >> Yeah. >> Councilwoman France. >> Yes. >> Councilman Kurazzi or Deputy Mayor Karazzi, sorry. >> Mayor Kramer, >> yes. Councilman Oni Jaka,
>> yes. >> Council member Bataznik, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Udin, >> yes. >> Councilman Vasinella, >> yes. >> Councilman Wright, >> yes. >> Consent agendum items A through AE are listed in the consent agenda of this
meeting are presented to township council for adoption. Do we have a motion on the consent agenda? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Moved and seconded. Any discussion? Anyone want to pull an item? Madame clerk. >> Well, excuse me, Mr. Mayor. >> Yes.
>> I just want to mention just one person. That's Mark Healey, uh, director of land use as a municipal housing leazison. He's also the executive director of the redevelopment agency here in Franklin Township. And I just wanted to put out that he does a heck of a job. Since I
see his name down there, I just want to pull it out for the people to recognize. That's it, Mr. Mayor. >> Okay. Any other discussion? >> Madame Clerk. Councilman embarrass. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Francois, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Karazzi, >> yes. >> Mayor Kramer,
>> yes. >> Councilman Oni Jaka, >> yes. >> Council member Bataznik, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Nudin, >> yes. >> Councilman Vasinella, >> yes. >> Councilman Wright, >> yes. >> Do I have a motion to adjurnn? >> Some moved. >> Seconded. >> Moved and seconded. All in favor say I. I.
>> Oppose say nay. >> We are adjourned. >> Be well. >> Be well Franklin.