Okay. All righty. Everyone good? We are calling this meeting of the Hackinack City Council to order. It is Tuesday, June 16th, 2026. It is 5:32 p.m. If you can read the notice, please. >> This meeting is being held in accordance
with the Open Public Meeting Act, NJSA 104-6 at SEC, notice of which was posted on the municipal website, pursuant to public law 2025, chapter 72. >> Thank you. Roll call, please. >> Mayor Gaines, >> here. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi, >> here. >> Councilman Carol, >> here.
>> Councilwoman Clark Collins, >> here. >> Councilman Diaz, >> here. >> We have a quorum. >> Please rise to the flag salute. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. Okay. I'm going to ask for a motion to approve the minutes of the May 26, 2026 council meeting. >> If there are no corrections, I'll I'm in
favor. Thank you. >> Second. >> Thank you. Uh, all in favor? >> I >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Thank you. I'm going to ask for a motion for a resolution to go into executive session to discuss ongoing litigation, matters involving attorney client privilege,
matters involving the purchase, lease, or acquisition of real property, andor any pending or anticipated litigation or contract negotiations. Can I have a motion, please? >> I'll make a motion. Second. >> Okay, thank you. Uh, all in favor? I.
Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay, we are going to aim to be back out at 6:30. Thank you. Coming soon to Hackinack. >> We will be perfect. >> Can't do it. >> I'm not good enough. >> I'm a baseball player now. >> You drop a pass, you run a mile. You
miss a blocking assignment, you run a mile. You fumble the football, you will run a mile. perfection. >> This summer, champions rise under the stars. >> Let's go to work. >> From the slam dunk action of Space Jam to the emotional journey of Inside Out
2, the inspiring story of Remember the Titans and the ultimate underdog story, Rocky. Don't miss Movies Under the Stars at Atlantic Street Park. Join us for sunset yoga.
>> Have you signed up for our NIXL alerts yet? NIXL keeps you up to date by text and email with instant updates from our office of emergency management so you can get important information when it matters most. Get alerts about severe weather, emergency situations, road
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to888777. Don't wait. Sign up for Nixl alerts today and stay connected to what's happening in Hackinack. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in the city of Hackinack by subscribing to the Hackinack weekly newsletter. Each week
you'll get the latest updates on city services, events, important announcements, and more delivered right to your inbox. Signing up is quick and easy. Just visit the city website to join. And if you have something to share, the newsletter includes a community bulletin for local
announcements and events. Send your submissions to news at hackansac.org. Coming soon to Hackinack. >> We will be perfect. I >> can't do it. >> I'm not good enough. >> I'm a baseball player now. >> You drop a pass, you run a mile. You
miss a blocking assignment, you run a mile. You fumble the football, you will run a mile. Perfection. This summer, champions rise under the stars. Let's go to work. >> From the slam dunk action of Space Jam to the emotional journey of Inside Out
2, the inspiring story of Remember the Titans and the ultimate underdog story, Rocky. Don't miss Movies Under the Stars at Atlantic Street Park. Join us for sunset yoga.
>> Have you signed up for our NIXL alerts yet? Nixel keeps you up to date by text and email with instant updates from our office of emergency management so you can get important information when it matters most. Get alerts about severe weather, emergency situations, road
closures, severe traffic, criminal activity, and local events. Signing up is quick and easy. Text 0761 to88877. That's 0761
to888777. Don't wait. Sign up for Nixl alerts today and stay connected to what's happening in Hackinack. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in the city of Hackinack by subscribing to the Hackinack weekly newsletter. Each week
you'll get the latest updates on city services, events, important announcements, and more delivered right to your inbox. Signing up is quick and easy. Just visit the city website to join. And if you have something to share, the newsletter includes a community bulletin for local
announcements and events. Send your submissions to news@hackansac.org. coming soon to Hackinack. >> We will be perfect. I >> can't do it. >> I'm not good enough. >> I'm a baseball player now. >> You drop a pass, you run a mind. You miss a blocking assignment, you run a
mile. You fumble the football, you will run a mile. Perfection. >> This summer, champions rise under the stars. Let's go to work. >> From the slam dunk action of Space Jam to the emotional journey of Inside Out
2, the inspiring story of Remember the Titans, and the ultimate underdog story, Rocky. Don't miss Movies Under the Stars at Atlantic Street Park. Join us for sunset yoga.
Have you signed up for our NIXL alerts yet? NIXL keeps you up to date by text and email with instant updates from our office of emergency management so you can get important information when it matters most. Get alerts about severe weather, emergency situations, road
closures, severe traffic, criminal activity, and local events. Signing up is quick and easy. Text 0761 to88877. That's 07612888777. Don't wait. Sign up for Nixl alerts
today and stay connected to what's happening in Hackinack. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in the city of Hackinack by subscribing to the Hackinack weekly newsletter. Each week, you'll get the latest updates on city services, events, important
announcements, and more, delivered right to your inbox. Signing up is quick and easy. Just visit the city website to join. And if you have something to share, the newsletter includes a community bulletin for local announcements and events. Send your
submissions to news@hackansack.org. coming soon to Hackinack. We will be perfect. Can't do it. >> I'm not good enough. >> I'm a baseball player now. >> You drop a pass, you run a mile. You miss a blocking assignment, you run a mile. You fumble a football, you will
run a mile. Perfection. >> This summer, champions rise under the stars. >> Let's go to work. >> From the slam dunk action of Space Jam to the emotional journey of Inside Out 2, the inspiring story of Remember the
Titans and the ultimate underdog story, Rocky. Don't miss Movies Under the Stars at Atlantic Street Park. Join us for sunset yoga. Have you signed up for our NIXL alerts yet?
Nixel keeps you up to date by text and email with instant updates from our office of emergency management so you can get important information when it matters most. Get alerts about severe weather, emergency situations, road closures, severe traffic, criminal
activity, and local events. Signing up is quick and easy. Text 0761 to 88877. That's 07612888777. Don't wait. Sign up for NIXL alerts today and stay connected to what's
happening in Hackinack. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in the city of Hackinack by subscribing to the Hackinack weekly newsletter. Each week, you'll get the latest updates on city services, events, important announcements, and more, delivered right
to your inbox. Signing up is quick and easy. Just visit the city website to join. And if you have something to share, the newsletter includes a community bulletin for local announcements and events. Send your submissions to news@ hackansac.org.
Are you ready? Okay. Thank you for your patience. We are out of executive session. We have a number of proclamations and presentations for this evening. However, we're going to go a little bit out of order today. So, I'm going to ask for
everyone just to bear with me, and I'm gonna ask for the council to bear with me as well. Uh right now I'm going to ask for uh we're going to call resolution 160-26
which is the resolution commemoratively renaming the intersection of Beach and Second Street to Gordon Scooter Whiting Way. And um if our clerk doesn't mind, I'm going to read the resolution. Is that okay? All right. resolution
commemorative commemoratively renaming the intersection of Beach Street and Second Street to Gordon Scooter Whiting Way. Whereas Gordon Scooter Whiting was a devoted member of the Hackinack community, a proud Comet for life whose career in service to the city of
Hackinack and its young people spanned decades and left an enduring mark on countless lives. And whereas Mr. Whiting served with distinction as a football and basketball coach and as athletic director for the Hackinack School
District, dedicating himself tirelessly to the development of student athletes both on and off the field. And whereas as a coach, Gordon Scooter Whiting was far more than a tactician. He was a mentor who believed in young people
before they believed in themselves, pushing student athletes to be tougher, more disciplined, more accountable, and better prepared for the challenges of life beyond sports. And whereas Mr. Whiting embodied the core values of
Hackinack football, pride, toughness, and brotherhood, and was widely regarded by generations of student athletes as someone who represented everything those values stand for. And whereas as athletic director, Mr. Whiting provided
steady and principled leadership over the district's athletic programs, supporting coaches, student athletes, and the broader school community with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. And whereas Mr. Whiting served as an assistant
principal within the Hackinac school district, extending his influence beyond athletics and into the full academic life of the community he loved. And whereas Gordon Scooter Whiting was a life longtime Hackinac resident whose family is deeply rooted in this
community and who together with his wife, Hackinack Middle School principal Dr. Joy Whiting, represent the very best of public service and commitment to the city of Hackinack. And whereas Mr. Whiting passed away on May 15th, 2026,
just two days after the Hackinac Board of Education accepted his retirement. A poignant reminder of a life given wholly in service to this community and his passing has been mourned deeply across Hackinack and beyond. end. Whereas it is
both fitting and proper that the city of Hackinack honor the memory of Gordon Scooter Whiting by commemoratively designating a portion of a street in his name so that future generations may know and remember his remarkable contributions to this community. And now
therefore be it resolved by the mayor and council of the city of Hackinack, Bergen County, New Jersey as follows. The intersection of Beach Street and Second Street in the city of Hackinack, Bergen County, New Jersey, is hereby commemoratively designated as Gordon
Scooter Whiting Way in honor of the life, legacy, and extraordinary service of Gordon Scooter Whiting. Be it further resolved that the appropriate officials of the city are directed to determine an appropriate manner to reflect this
commemorative renaming. And be it further resolved that the city clerk is directed to transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the family of Gordon Scooter Whiting to the Hackinack Board of Education and to such other offices as it may be appropriate. Can I have a
motion? >> I'll offer. >> If you can call the role, please. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi. >> I. >> Council member Clark Collins. >> I. >> Council member Carol. Councilman Diaz. >> I.
>> Mayor Gaines. >> I. >> Resolution passes. And we're we're going to go a little bit out of order and I'm going to ask for everyone's permission for a moment, but I would like to um if she's up for it, ask Dr. Whiting if she would like to
come to the podium and just say a few words and then we'll move on to our proclamations. There you go. >> Thank you, Mr. Offman. Good evening, everyone. Um, I'm flooded with emotion right now,
gratitude, and um, just humility for this amazing honor in honor of my husband, Gordon Scooter Whiting. I stand before you representing our children, Camille. Uh our son Curtis, and uh my
husband's dear parents, Gordon and Martha Whiting. My mother-in-law is here. My husband was a proud Comet, lover of this community. We proudly live here. He's lived here all his life. And when Mayor Gaines announced that the
street at the street naming at his funeral services, I was overcome with emotion, shock, um just disbelief and gratitude for him being honored in such an amazing way. My husband was a humble man. He was a man of few words,
but he lived loudly. He lived for us as a family. He lived loudly for the children of Hackinack. He loved this city. He uh often talked about what pride he
had growing up here. And he would often say, "It's not where you're from, it's where you're at." And so, um, that's the message that I hope that his life resounds. that regardless of where you come from or
regardless of where you land in the city of Hackinack, that it's where you plant your feet to bloom where you've been planted that will speak volumes to your legacy. And so I'm grateful um for this opportunity. I'm humbled by it and I
will forever be um indebted to um all of you who made it possible for this amazing honor in honor of my husband. Thank you to the community, our family, the Hackinack uh residents. I often say
we are family because it's a mixture of family and friends. So, thank you so much. And tomorrow at the Hackinack Sports Center, uh we will present two scholarships in honor of the Gordon
Scooter Whiting once a comet, always a comment. And so that just speaks to living loudly and being a proud um Hackinack resident. So thank you. And I I want to end with this quote. It says, "Your life is a better sermon than your
lips." And so it is my prayer and it is my desire that we all live a life to our so that our sermon will be lived by our lives and not just by our lips. Thank you so much for this amazing
opportunity. So, we have a number of proclamations um this evening. After the proclamations, we'll take a a brief pause. number one, so that we can take some photos. Um, but also so that anyone
who doesn't want to stick around for the rest of the meeting can make their way out. You're welcome to stay. We'll we'll be staying. We'll be here. Uh, you're welcome to hang out with us, but I understand. So, um, with that, I am going to All right.
And I'm going to ask everyone to bear with me today because we have a lot of things. All right. Yep. All right. Whereas the week of June 8th through 12th, 2026 was recognized nationally as community health improvement week. And
whereas community health professionals, public health workers, and partner organizations dedicate their lives to improving the health, well-being, and quality of life for individuals and families. And whereas promoting health equity, advancing preventative care, and addressing social determinance of health are vital to building resilient, strong
and thriving communities. And whereas communities achieve their best health outcomes when hospitals, local health departments, community based organizations, and residents work together collaboratively. And now, therefore, I, Kasim Gaines, mayor of the city of Hackinac, along with the entire city council, do hereby proclaim June
8th through 12th, 2026 as community health improvement week in the city of Hackinack. We encourage all residents to recognize the critical work being done to eliminate health disparities and to support initiatives that promote long-term community health.
Okay. Is Sylvia Brown here? >> Great. Sylvia, can you come on down? Do these stand. All right. We'll do pictures after. Come on down. Sylvia is a frequent flyer at our meetings. She's a pro. All right.
Whereas Sylvia Brown is a dedicated senior at Hackinack High School and an active member of the Girl Scouts, consistently demonstrating the highest ideals of service, leadership, and compassion. And whereas Sylvia previously earned the Girl Scout Silver Award by planning and planting a
community garden that donated nearly 100 pounds of fresh produce to the Center for Food Action in Hackinack. And whereas building on that success, Sylvia undertook the Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouting by designing and launching a network of community mini
food pantries to address local food insecurity. And whereas with city approval, Sylvia successfully established pantries at the Eminem Recreation Center, the Johnson Public Library, and the city hall complex, operating on the principle, take what
you need, leave what you can. And whereas Sylvia's initiative embodies the spirit of community, helpfulness, and proactivity, representing the very best of Hackinack and serving as a model for young people throughout the region. Now therefore, I, Cassim Gains, mayor of the
city of Hackinack, along with the entire city council, formally honor Sylvia Brown for her extraordinary achievement of the Girl Scout Gold Award and her lasting contribution to the health, well-being, and unity of our community
through her mini food pantry network. Congratulations, All right. And fitting for uh in the spirit of athleticism, um we have a number of student athletes that we would like to recognize. So, I have some proclamations and then we have
some certificates for outstanding honors for a number of other athletes. So, I'm going to call up Briana Darling. It's long, so I'm going to start while she's making her way. So whereas Briana Darling is a senior at Hackinack High School and one of the most accomplished
multisport athletes in local history competing in varsity softball, soccer, flag football, and winter track. And whereas as a standout shortstop and center fielder for the Hackinack Comets, Briana has delivered extraordinary
production, hitting an 850 with 154 career hits, nearing the school record, and among North Jerseys all-time leaders. And whereas regarded as one of New Jersey's fastest players, she has amassed 224
career stolen bases, the most steals in Hackinack High School and Bergen County history. And whereas Briana is an all North Jersey athlete in winter track, holding the school record in the 55
meter dash 7.18 and a county notable long jump of 18 ft 2 in while anchoring the record- setting 4x200 relay team. And whereas demonstrating immense versatility, she is a four-year varsity
soccer starter and a key contributor to the flag football team, scoring four of Hackin Sacks six touchdowns. And whereas in recognition of her achievements, Briana was named the North Jersey.com Bergen record female athlete of the week
and she will soon bring her talents to the Long Island University LIU to continue her athletic and academic career. Now therefore, I, Cassim Gaines, mayor of the city of Hackinac, along with the entire city council, formally honor Briana Darling for her
extraordinary multisport achievements, her record- setting performances, and the immense pride she has brought to Hackinack High School as she prepares to join the LIU community. Michael McInnity. >> Michael so formal. Michael.
All right. Whereas Mike McGinity, a member of the Hackinack High School class of 2026, has reached the pinnacle of high school sports throughout relentless discipline and mental toughness. And whereas Michael built a historic record on the trails,
dropping his 5K personal record to a blistering 1538 at Bergen County Meet of Champions and cementing his elite status with a 1549 performance at the NJSIAA meet of champions. And whereas his phenomenal senior campaign earned him
statewide acknowledgement as the NJ.com New Jersey cross country runner of the year. And whereas his excellence extends to the track, including a 15636 in the 800 meter and a 91756 in the
two-mile run, earning him New Jersey cross country CTFCA performer of the week honors. And whereas Michael embodies the true student athlete, matching his athletic brilliance with leadership as an 11time
gold honor role student, a member of the Hackinack High School top 20, and a participant in the national Spanish and tri music honor societies, the jazz band, and the varsity H club. And whereas Michael's achievements bring honor to the Hackinac Comets, inspiring
his teammates, coaches, and our city as he prepares to continue his academic and athletic career at Malmouth University. Now, therefore, I, Cassim Gaines, mayor of the city of Hackinack, along with the entire city council, formerly honor Michael McInnity for his for being named the North Jersey cross country runner of
the year and recognize his excellence in the classroom and on the track. We wish him limitless success in his journey at Mammoth University. Seven Garcia. >> I know he can get up here fast. Where's Seven? Come on.
>> All right. Whereas the city of Hackinack takes great pride in acknowledging the exceptional triumphs in sport and sportsmanship of its student athletes. And whereas seven Garcia of the Hackinack High School class of 2026 has
pushed the boundaries of speed and stamina, solidifying his status as one of New Jerseys premier track talents. And whereas 7 has set the standard for speed, showcasing 200 meter to 800 meter versatility with personal records of
47.5 in the indoor 400, 11861 in the 600 meter and an elite 15338 in the 800 meter. And whereas his winter performances earned him regional recognition as northj jersey.com's athlete of the week. And whereas 7
reached the summit of scholastic honors during his senior campaign, being crowned crowned NJ.com's New Jersey indoor track runner of the year. And whereas this honor celebrates his leadership championship performances
at the NJSIA sectional and group levels and his instrumental role as an anchor for the Hackinack Comets relay units. And whereas his historic tenure has earned him an athletic commitment to the University of Southern California, USC,
where he will carry the Hackinack legacy to the NCAA Division 1 level. Now therefore, I, Casim Gaines, mayor of the city of Hackinack, along with the members of the city council, formally honor seven Garcia for his spectacular
achievements. We celebrate the pride he has brought to the Comets community and wish him limitless success as he takes his extraordinary speed to the USC Trojans. >> Okay. So, all right. So, I don't know who's here. I don't know who's not here.
So, I'm going to acknowledge folks and if you're here, I'm going to ask you to come up. What I'm going to do just to keep things moving is once I um if you're here, just raise your hand or something so I can see that you're coming up or get up. I guess that's the better way of doing it. Uh get up, start
making your way, and I'll just hand over the certificate to our assistant clerk and our deputy clerk, and she will have it ready for you. As you make your way up, I'm going to ask you just to stay to the side, and then we'll take a picture with everyone when we're done. Okay? All
right. So, we have two sets of certificates of recognition that we'd like to give. So, I'm going to call out what it's for and then call up the names. So, certificate of recognition from the mayor and city council of the city of Hackinack for Hackinack High School 2025 2026 outdoor track big North
Freedom Division League Champions, Bergen County Relay Champions, Bergen County Group Champions, and State Sectional Champions. And so if that is you, if you're in that group, you know, start getting ready. We're calling up Aiden Alman.
>> Quazier Bearfield, Eric Cardinz, Jared's Chavitz. Nayawa Dangai. Sorry. >> Help me. Not here. Devin Damry and Dustin Damry.
Dustin Damry. Let me not play. There you go. Jaden Duza, >> Jaden Een, Seven Garcia, >> Matthew Gomez. Is Matthew here? No, it's
Nicholas Hines, >> Adrien Jimenez, Chase Joiner, Tavari Legister, >> Ezekiel Luna. >> You're welcome. >> Mike McGinity. >> Daniel Neifa.
>> Not here. Jason Ramache, Kevin Ramache, Romero Wright. Okay, we're repeating it. All right, so All right, so we'll hold out there. Um now this certificate the new certificates certificate of recognition
um from all of us for the Hackath High School 2025 2026 boys indoor track league state sectional and state champions. Aiden Alman, Quazier Bearfield, Eric Cardinis, Cardennis,
Jared Chavitz, >> Devin Damry, and Dustin, you can just start making your way, Dustin, thank you. >> Jaden Dusa, Jaden Een, Seven Garcia, Adrien Jimenez
here, Chase Joiner, Tavar register. Yes, sir. Yes. Sorry. Am I messing that up? >> Help me. What? What's which name? >> What? One more time. >> TABARI. >> THANK YOU. There we go.
>> Don't let people mess up your name. Ezekiel Luna. Mike Mcinity, >> Darius Peton, Jason Ramache, and Kevin Ramache. All right, we're going to do this backwards. So, everyone who was in one
of the last two groups that we called, if we can give them one more round of applause as they make their way up, we're going to take a picture. We're going to come down. All right. Congratulations, everyone. We're going to take a picture. Thanks. >> You want us all down there? We should >> just
double line it. Double line it. Double line. >> Double line. Double line. Double line. Lot >> shorties in the front. >> No, we we were shorter than >> if they Yeah, we may be if they make
they line up. >> No, let's go down. Let's go down. >> They can line up in a week. >> Leave the and leave the middle. in the middle. >> Okay. >> All right. You got to team up. >> We're good.
What a good seven. >> Yo, take it. They need >> tickets. All right. All right. All
right. Thank you guys. >> Well, not that you don't You want to get >> closer What's your tattoo? I didn't >> go. Why didn't you tell me your name? We
could have got a four me. But um >> he's doing all right. >> Here you go. >> Yes. Take a big step. >> Good work. >> We're going to take a 5minut recess. If
you want to stay, you're invited. If you don't, understand. We're going to pause for five minutes and we'll be >> Yes, absolutely. coming soon to Hackinack. We will be perfect. I >> can't do it. >> I'm not good enough. >> I'm a baseball player now.
>> You drop a pass, you run a mind. You miss a blocking assignment, you run a mile. You fumble the football, you will run a mile. Perfection. >> This summer, champions rise under the stars. >> Let's go to work. >> From the slam dunk action of Space Jam
to the emotional journey of Inside Out 2, the inspiring story of Remember the Titans, and the ultimate underdog story, Rocky. Don't miss Movies Under the Stars at Atlantic Street Park.
Join us for sunset yoga. Have you signed up for our Nixl alerts yet? Nixel keeps you up to date by text and email with instant updates from our office of emergency management so you can get important information when it
matters most. Get alerts about severe weather, emergency situations, road closures, severe traffic, criminal activity, and local events. Signing up is quick and easy. Text 0761
to 888777. That's 07612888777. Don't wait. Sign up for NIXL alerts today and stay connected to what's happening in Hackinack. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in the city of Hackinack by subscribing to the
Hackinack weekly newsletter. Each week, you'll get the latest updates on city services, events, important announcements, and more, delivered right to your inbox. Signing up is quick and easy. Just visit the city website to join. And if you have something to
share, the newsletter includes a community bulletin for local announcements and events. Send your submissions to news@ hackansac.org. Uh, congratulations to the Whiting family.
And before we continue, I'm just going to ask for a brief moment of silence for uh Hackinac resident and uh namesake of the art gallery at the Hackpack uh Ruth Baron Newader who passed away this
weekend. If we can just have a moment of silence, please. Thank you. Okay, moving on to our presentations. We are going to have a presentation by HEZA, the Hackinac Environmental Justice Alliance, and they
are going to be presenting the Hackinac Green Infrastructure Plan. Thank you. >> Good evening, everyone. I'm Pedro Delveio. Before I start, I just want to say we are not the track team or Mr. Whiting or anything. And I just think
it's very appropriate. Um it's kind of an honor to be here on a night like tonight where we're celebrating so much. Um and I think it's just so appropriate that um Mr. Whiting way is the Comet Way. Just thought that was very poetic. So I'll start now as um co-chair of
Hackinack Environmental Justice Alliance. Hija. Um, so we are a grassroots organization that works towards a greener and more sustainable environment for all by engaging the community to identify specific issues, find equitable solutions, and implement
positive creative change. The group began with a seed from the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation, and we've grown to more than 50 individual members and an alliance of some 25 businesses and nonprofit organizations who share our goals.
The father of en environmental justice, Dr. Bullard, defines environmental justice as the fair treatment of people of all races, incomes, and cultures with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and
policies. So flooding, as we all know, is a top concern in Hackinac. So we hope that by working together with a comprehensive vision we will become greener and a more resilient city.
Hija's green infrastructure plan which I have here. I can give these to you to share around. I don't know who gets the fancy bound one. You can fight over that. Um, HEG's green infrastructure plan offers effective natural and practical ways to improve flooding
flooding conditions, mitigate air and water pollution, and to provide access to the Hackinack River for all. Tonight, we want to share and introduce our green infrastructure plan and our plan for the Hackinac Riverwalk project. Green infrastructure is a system of
natural and engineered features designed to manage storm water, reduce urban heat and improve air quality. Green infrastru the green infrastructure plan recommends some very effective solutions using nature to reduce the
burden on the sewer system, reduce flooding, cool the air, and reduce air and water pollution. The green infrastructure plan we're proposing is environmentally sound and fiscally feasible. It includes practical recommendations and policies that will
improve the environmental conditions for everyone in Hackinack. You might recognize those streets up there, the before and the imagined after. We have Central Avenue on the left and River Street on the right. Hija encourages you to read the green
infrastructure plan and hopes we can meet to discuss it in depth at a later date and go to the um ultimately we hope to see the green infrastructure plan added into the master plan of the city of Hackinac and the city's storm water management plan.
Okay. And then as part of our commitment to environmental justice, we are focused on access to the Hackinac River. In the fall of 2025, Hija hosted two public sessions to gauge the public interest in increasing access to the Hackinac River. The response was incredible.
Peter Dolan of the New York and New Jersey Trail Conference walked the six and a half miles along the Hackinack River to collect information on the exist on the existing river walkways and identify the places where the walkways are disconnected. He presented ideas to remedy disjointed
walkways and to create inviting, accessible, and interesting pathways from city neighborhoods to the river. Originally, the focus was finding pathways to the river, but the takeaway from the meetings was that the community wants a pathway along the river.
So, there are some beautiful connected parts of the trail that form a loop from Johnson Park to FDU over to Tene and back. And right now, I'd like to invite Ted Melon up to continue on with our description of a walk we took.
>> Sure thing. >> Thank you so much. You guys can hear me fine here. By the way, I've been I've been saying heda. You said hija. But um thank you so much for uh for hearing us. Um I always I'm a school teacher for the next week at least and
I'm retiring in a week. But um I always tell my students um to start with the conclusion and end with the conclusion. and make like a conclusion sandwich. So, our ask when it comes to our pathways to the river portion of the project isn't much. It's really just that you support
it. Maybe we want to do some signage. Maybe we want to incorporate some artwork, but of course with the city's permission and, you know, with your uh understanding, but we're not asking for a lot, but we just want to kind of connect with you guys and make you aware of what we're doing. So, Pathways to the
River is the name that we're kind of giving the portion of the project where we're trying to attract people down to the river. Um, we've been calling it the Hackinack River Walk. I don't know if that's the official name, but that's what it makes sense and it kind of
works. So, that's the name we've been going with. Hack River Walk, which is of course this I'm just going to say I'm jealous of some other towns that have these wonderful walking paths and I would love for Hackinack to have a wonderful walking path that is continuous and this
is a project that's been going on for years and it's not quite it's fragmented at the at the moment and we're that's something we're discovering as we uh initiate this pathways to the river project. So, as we were looking at, you know, where where should we direct
people to get to the river, we realized if we direct people down to the river, and it's a fairly fragmented part of the path, it's not necessarily something we want to do yet. So, we've isolated one portion to start with, and that's as uh
Pedro already mentioned, that portion that starts at FDU. You go over that beautiful bridge that they've created. And we've all walked this path. We we went around this this loop and it does bring you into T-neck because to do a continuous loop you kind of need to
incorporate a little bit of TK and then you come back over the Cedar Lane Bridge and then you go into this wonderful portion of uh the Hackinack part of the path through Johnson Park and then FDU and it's that part's really nice and as a person who's an avid walker myself um
you know it's a nice continuous walk. So, we've sort of isolated that as our phase one part of the project. Uh, I said we're not asking for too much, but um, one thing we'd like to be on the radar is, of course, continuing progress towards making that path as continuous
as possible. We talk about that a lot and um you know as the Hackac Environmental Justice Alliance trying to bring people to this beautiful environmental part of our town, we kind of wish it was super continuous
and so we we would hope that eventually um it gets to that point. So yeah, the FDA FDU loop is is the portion that we'd like to do at first. And we'd like to have signage that attracts people from town throughout
town. So not signage on the loop itself, but rather like, hey, this is where you go to go to this wonderful part of Hackinack where you can do this loop and get a nice walk-in and enjoy the environment. And um we'd like to also incorporate some artwork there. And and
um I will say this when I mean we we've done several other initiatives, rain barrels and that incorporated art. We're doing rain gardens and we're continuing to do rain gardens because that of course helps the environment. But when we
said to the public, hey, we're also we have another initiative. We'd like to talk about this river uh walk that we have in Hackinack and we we have an expert from the New York and New Jersey trail conference coming down to talk to you about it. The turnout to that
meeting was immense. We get a decent turnout and our group has been growing little by little, but when we did that particular meeting and I I I'll defer to Pedra in terms of numbers, but we had a lot of people a lot of interest from the community. People are excited about the
idea of having that beautiful walk in Hackinack. So that's something that energized us and it energized me. It it initiated me to become take sort of a leadership role on this portion of our um of our uh different initiatives that
we have. So um I don't know did I forget anything? That's pretty much what I wanted to say. Anything else to add? I'll defer to Pedra on anything else, but um we wanted to put this on your radar in terms of things that we uh are doing and especially the the Hackinack
River Walk as we're calling it. And if anybody knows the official name for that pathway, I'd love to to know it. But >> all right. Yeah. So, I just wanted to finish by saying just to kind of sum up our What are we doing? We're starting and ending with the conclusion. I learned um
>> the ask. I forgot the conclusion. >> Yeah. So, we're just asking that you look over our green infrastructure plan and consider it. We are happy to meet with you and discuss some of the nuance to it and the details. Um, and then also
hopefully we can collaborate on this. right now. Really what we would love is just your endorsement, your blessing for lack of a better word, to start um identifying some of this path with wayfinding marks, you know, collaborate with you and see what's appropriate
there. And um the the last thing is to clear some of the shrubbery that's blocking the river. So those are kind of that's those are our simple starts. These were pictures of some of the ugly parts so we can get back and focus on the good because it's been such an uplifting night. So thank you. Thanks
for having us. >> Thank you. Thank you all. Thank you so much. Okay. I'm going to ask for our Ah, yes. Okay. Our Bergen County open space public hearing on the side park putting green. Tim, is there someone here for that or we just have to call it?
>> We just have to call it. >> Okay. Great. So, um, is there anyone from the public? Nope. >> Oh, we need a motion to Okay, great. Thank you. Sorry. All right. So, can I have a motion to receive comment from
the public on um applying for a grant? Just to be clear, it's to apply for a grant for a Sky Park putting green. Any member of the P Oh, can I um get a motion to open the public? >> I'll second. open to the public.
>> Okay. Yep. Um all in favor >> I >> I >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Any member from the public wishing to speak on this single issue? >> Okay. Yeah. Okay. >> Question. >> Sure.
>> And if you could just state your name. >> Jenny Lynn Brown. Hackinack. Um just a question about the Sty Park putting green. It's the first time hearing of it. Um for a few years I chaired the environmental commission
here in Hackinack. I was the president of the garden club of Hackinack. I am now the vice president of the garden club of Hackinack. And for years with um other members of the environmental commission, we were asking and um the
idea for Sty Park has always been a s serenity garden in Sty Park where that black top is in the back. So I just had some questions about the putting green. How did it come about? What are the plans? and uh I know you said it's for a
grant application, but you know where we are with that. >> Sure. So, um I'll I'll answer that, but I want to make sure we get other comment. Actually, just in case other people have the same questions, let me just answer. So, um on the docket for tonight, resolution 167-26 is resolution authorizing execution of a
Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund contract for the Serenity Garden project that you just referenced. It's on the docket for tonight. the putting uh the the grant application is for a potential putting green that is on quite literally
the opposite side of Sky Park. So, um kind of by the entrance. So, I just want to and I I put all those caveats in to say it's to apply for a grant for blah blah. So, it's still a long way lot of lot of action has to be taken if if we
get to that point, but the serenity garden is on the agenda for tonight. Any other member from the public wishing to speak on this item or this item only? Okay, seeing none, motion to close to the public on this? >> I'll offer.
>> Second. >> All in favor? >> I I Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay. Uh, city manager report. Good evening everyone. Just to follow up with some uh resident concerns that were
brought up at the May 26th meeting. Um we had uh resident Miss Somerville was concerned about the maintenance upkeep of the Triangle Gardens at Prospect in Hamilton and Prospect and Anderson. And uh our city DPW took it upon themselves
to head up there and they weeded the area and they cut the grass and so forth. So, they're going to be keeping an eye on the maintenance of those things. Uh, we had resident Mr. Mueller requesting to examine adding parking on Lynen Street between Pay and Anderson. I gave that to HPD's traffic division.
They conducted a study. They reported back to me that they did not advise adding any street parking there. I had uh Mr. White, resident Mr. White, requesting to improve uh Palaski Park with some new playsets, shade, garbage
cans, etc. Uh, I spoke to project management and they're looking into quotes as we speak for a new play set for the park and we're working on the garbage cans as well. Uh, the shade request will be a larger project because that requires a structure. So, that'll be a larger project uh that we'll have
to find funding for. Uh we had uh Miss Sheree had some concerns about the school area on Second Street with uh parents dropping their children off there by Carver Park. And um I can report that the traffic division had
some slow signs painted in the street. Excuse me. They had signs posted and they're going to be doing some street painting as well to address the traffic concerns that that we found there. Um, Miss Sharief also had concerns for the school crossing guard at uh, Pake and
Hannes and uh, HPD reported back to me that they had done a study there um, a while back and recommended some flashing signs. However, the project was never funded. So, I actually just approved today PD to move forward with um, acquiring the flashing pedestrian
crossing signs for that area to improve the safety there for the crossing guard and the children. Uh, resident Darlene, I missed her last name, uh, had concerns about the intersection of Clinton and Maine and, uh, that was passed along to traffic as well, and I'm waiting for an
update from HPD traffic division on that, although I stand corrected on that. I did get an update, so forgive me. Um, flashing pedestrian crossing signs are being installed as a requirement from the developer that's building on the corner there. So, that's going to get
done as far as flashing um pedestrian crossing signs. Uh traffic's been monitored there. Traffic has been monitored there and uh one summons was issued recently for failure to stop. The sign crew responded there. They straightened out and secured some of the existing signage that was
not in good shape. Um we also placed temporary in street pedestrian crossing signs. Uh unfortunately, someone keeps knocking them over, but they have the uh temporary signs in the middle of the road there and hopefully uh nobody will be damaging them moving forward. So, that's just some of the updates on
resident concerns. I also want to just touch quickly on uh some of the community reminders, our hometown heroes, veteran banners. We still have a couple limited spaces available on Main Street. Uh if anyone's interested in in honoring one of their family members or
friends, uh you can go on our website or you can contact the city manager's office for that. Uh just another reminder, our splash pads on Saturdays and Sundays uh until May 23rd. Um and then from excuse me, until May 23rd and then from May 23rd,
I stand corrected here. May 23rd to June 28th, Saturdays and Sundays, the splash pads are open. And then 7 days a week from June 29th to September 7th. That's from uh 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. That's atly park and Carver Park. And our rec
summer camp is uh getting filled up very quickly. If anyone has any interest in in uh looking into signing their kids up for the summer camp, there's only a couple of parks that currently have some space, but there are still some available spaces at some of the parks. So, please contact the recck department
if you're interested. June events. June 20th is the Junth celebration at Carver Park. That runs from uh 9:30 a.m. until I believe 3 p.m. Live music, food, and local vendors. And a small parade will be taking place as
well. Uh June 27th, we're having a shred event. Uh if you have unwanted documents or papers, Johnson Park, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the shred event on June 27th. And then uh lastly on June
27th we are uh having a commemoration of One Love Way um which is renaming the Anderson Street Park um side street there as One Love Way just to add an additional sign there. Hackpack June programming. You can visit
the Hackpack website for full information on that. That's all I have to report. >> You've been busy. >> Thank you. Yes. >> So, city manager, I just want to uh
comment um on this week we had a uh Saturday we had a big storm and I want to commend you uh our supervisors and all of the DPW workers uh that worked
around the clock uh opening up our streets. Uh, I was out and about. I took many pictures. We had home damage. We had trees down. We had
kudos to T-C DPW. Um, I guess the storm bypassed them a little bit, so they sent some crews. So, I just wanted to say thank you, uh, Tom, to all the guys. And if there's anybody here,
um, from the DPW, you you worked hard. uh our streets were cleared and I'm proud of you. So, um keep up the good work. >> Yeah. And and just to to echo what you said, we were kind of in a jam. Our our one uh bucket truck to remove trees was
out of service. Just luck of the draw was it was in the shop during this storm and we were kind of uh really in a pinch and didn't really know how to what we were going to be able to do to handle this. And uh our friends over in Teneck uh the uh city manager over there, Jacqueline, uh stepped up. She sent her
tree crews over with all their equipment, all their trucks and manpower and assisted our people with clearing those trees because we got hit really hard. But thanks again to Teneck for that. That was really, really helpful. >> Thank you to all of our DPW guys. >> Thank you. And thank you. All right. So,
um, before I ask for a motion for public comment, I'm going to, um, excuse Councilman Carol from the deis. He has an appointment, but wanted to be here for the presentations. So, I'm going to let him slip out and I'm going to ask for a motion to open to the public on
agenda items only. So, if this is your first No problem. So, if this is your your um first go around or if you haven't been here in a while, in October of last year, since October of last year, we have two public comments. One is on agenda items only and the other is
on whatever you'd like to bring forth. So, um, if any member of the public would like to make a motion or make, uh, like to address anything on the agenda, we're just asking that you come forward, state your name, what item on the agenda you are going to be speaking on, and
then you'll have your time. Uh, can I have a motion to open to the public on agenda items? >> I'll offer. >> Second. >> Okay. All in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay. any member of the public wishing to speak on agenda items or on an agenda
item. Okay. And I'll keep time for you and as uh three minutes comes up I'll ask you to bring your comment to a close. Thank you. >> Uh my name is Eileen O'Reilly, 106 Pine Street. I'm a member of Heda, but um I'm speaking only to ask the council what is
going on in uh Johnson Park uh with the redevelopment of the area that was supposed to be a soccer stadium at some point because I can't find any rumors or anything about it and I think it would be a big piece of our um project and
thinking. So, if you could let us know. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss O'Reilly. Thank you. Anyone else from the public wishing to speak on agenda items or an agenda item? Okay, seeing none, motion to close to the public. All
>> second. >> All in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay. Thank you. Okay. All right. Okay. We have some ordinances for second
reading. Um, resolution 161-26. >> Resolution 161-26 is the adoption of ordinance 09-2026, an ordinance authorizing the acquisition of real property known as block 303, lot 19, commonly known as 153 to 155 Main
Street on the official tax map of the city of Hackinac or if necessary eminent domain. This ordinance has been a published according to law and now calls for a public hearing. Thank you. Can I have a motion to open to the public on resolution 161-26?
>> I'll offer. >> Second. >> Okay. All in favor? I. Any opposed? Any abstension? Any member of the public wishing to speak on resolution 120? Well, I'm sorry, 161-26. And that resolution only. Seeing none, motion to close to the
public on resolution 161-26. >> I second. >> All in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay. Um motion to adopt resolution 161-26. >> Can I have a motion?
>> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Clark Collins. >> Yes. >> Councilman Diaz. >> Yes. >> Mayor Gaines. >> Yes. Be it resolved by the city council of
the city of Hackinac, county of Bergen, and the state of New Jersey that ordinance number 09-2026 has passed its second and final reading and is hereby adopted. >> Thank you. Resolution 162-26. Resolution 162-26 is the adoption of
ordinance 10-2026, an ordinance amending chapter 134 of the code of the city of Hackinac, rent stabilization to amend the composition of the rent stabilization board and amend the applicability of regulations under this chapter. This ordinance has
been published according to law and now calls for a public hearing. >> Thank you. Motion to open to the public on resolution 162-26. I'll >> second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions?
>> Any member from the public wishing to speak on resolution 162-26? Seeing none, motion to close to the public on resolution 162-26. >> I'll offer second. >> All in favor? >> I.
>> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion to adopt resolution 162-26. >> I'll offer. Thank you. >> Second. >> Okay. Oh, a roll call, please. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi, >> yes. >> Councilman Clark Collins,
>> yes. >> Councilman Diaz, >> yes. >> Mayor Gates, >> yes. Be it resolved by the city council of the city of Hackinac, county of Bergen, and state of New Jersey that ordinance number 10-2026 has passed its second and
final reading and is hereby adopted. >> Thank you. Resolution 163-26. Resolution 163-26 is the introduction of ordinance 11-2026 an ordinance of the city of Hackinac in the county of Bergen, New Jersey to
execute a financial agreement between the city and Kgroup Venture Urban Renewal LLC in connection with real property known and designated as 1517 and 21 Hiler Street block 10719
lots 1516 and 17 along with a portion of lot one on the official tax map of of the city of Hackinac, New Jersey. >> Thank you. Um motion to adopt resolution 163-26. >> I
second. >> Roll call, please. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Clark Collins, >> yes. >> Councilman Diaz, >> yes. >> Mayor Gaines, >> yes. Be it resolved that the above ordinance, being ordinance 11-2026, as introduced, does now pass on first
reading, and that said ordinance shall be considered for final passage at a meeting to be held on June 30th, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter can be reached at the regular meeting place of the city council and at such time and place all persons
interested be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said ordinance and that the clerk be and he is hereby authorized and directed to publish said ordinance according to law with a notice of its introduction and passage on first reading and of the time and place when
and where said ordinance will be further considered for final passage. >> Thank you. Uh consent agenda please. >> The following items are considered to be routine in nature and will be enacted in one motion. Any items requiring expenditure are supported by a
certification of availability of funds. Any item requiring discussion will be removed from the consent agenda and consent agenda items will be reflected in full in the minutes including any exceptions and/or additions. The consent agenda includes resolution 152-26,
resolution requesting approval of items of revenue and appropriation for the 2026 summer food service program. Resolution 164-26, resolution authorizing payment of bills. Resolution 165-26,
resolution authorizing tax refunds. Resolution 166-26, resolution authorizing the submission of an application to the Bergen County Open Space Recreation Flood Plane Protection Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund for the Sty Park Practice Putting
Green Project. Resolution 167-26, resolution authorizing the execution of a Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund project contract for Sty Park Serenity Garden Improvement Project. Resolution
168-26, resolution authorizing the renewal of liquor licenses for the 2026 2027 license term. Resolution 169-26, resolution authorizing the 100% veteran tax exemption for 326 Prospect Avenue,
Unit 6E. Resolution 170-26. Resolution authorizing limited interim legal services and directing commencement of a fair and open RFP process for Scarreny Hollandback LLC. Resolution 171-16
26, sorry, 17126. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application and execution of a grant agreement with the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the fiscal year 2027 safe streets to transit grant program for the Essex Street Station pedestrian
safety improvements project. Resolution 172-26, resolution to cancel duplicate billing from 2026 for block 402, lot 12. Resolution 173-26, Resolution authorizing tax appeal attorney to settle the cases on the
attached list dated June 9th, 2026 that were scheduled for trial or settlement. Resolution 174-26, resolution approving accumulated leave payout to police officer Aruki Ravi. Resolution 175-26,
resolution authorizing the submission of a 2026 local aid infrastructure fund grant application and execution of a grant contract with the Department of Transportation for the Hackinack Pedestrian Safety Project. Resolution 176-26,
resolution approving the revised mayor and council 2026 meeting schedule. Resolution 177-26, resolution authorizing the donation of a 1992 tiller ladder truck to Schoolill His Historical Fires Society. Resolution
178-26, resolution authorizing the appointments to the rent stabilization board. Resolution 179-26, resolution to endorse the amended housing element and fair share pl adopted by the planning
board on June 10th, 2026. Resolution 12 180-26, resolution of the city council of the city of Hackinac adopting an amended fourth round affordable housing trust fund spending plan. Resolution 181-26, resolution of the city of Hackinack
authorizing the execution of an agreement pursuant to NJSA514- K-1 at SEC with Rean Development Corp. for property located at 89 to 95 Essex Street and identified as block 10719,
lots 20 and 21, formerly known as block 76, lots 50 and 51 on the Hackinack city tax maps. And finally, resolution 182-26, resolution of the city of Hackinack supporting use of its affordable housing trust funds in connection with 15,17,
and 21 Hiler Street, block 10719, lots 15, 16, and 17 along with a portion of lot 1. >> Thank you. >> You need to catch a breath or can I go? >> You can go. >> All right. Great.
Can I have a motion to adopt the consent agenda? >> I'll offer a second. >> Uh, roll call, please. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi, >> yes. >> Council Councilwoman Clark Collins,
>> yes. >> Councilman Diaz, >> yes. >> Mayor Gates, >> yes. >> Consent agenda passes. >> Okay. Thank you. We have an additional item. Uh, resolution 183-26.
>> Resolution 183-26 is a resolution authorizing the execution of a contract with fireworks by Gruchcci Incorporated for the 4th of July fireworks at Fashini Park. Okay. Uh, can I have a motion to
adopt resolution 183-26? >> Second. >> A roll call, please. >> Deputy Mayor Tumi. Yes. >> Councilwoman Clark Collins. >> Yes. >> Councilman Diaz. >> Yes. >> Mayor Gaines. >> Yes. >> Resolution passes. >> Okay.
>> Thank you. >> Okay. Moving on to old business. >> There is an item on the table that can be reconsidered this evening or remain on the table. That's resolution 155-26. >> Um. Okay. I uh do we have to make a motion to
remove from the table? >> Yeah, >> I make a motion to remove item 155-26 from the table. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Um, roll call.
>> Deputy Mayor Tumi. >> Yes. Councilman Clark Collins, >> yes. >> Councilman Diaz, >> yes. >> Mayor Gates, >> yes. >> The resolution can now be considered. >> Okay. Uh, I'd like to make a motion to
adopt resolution 155-26 from the previous meeting. >> I'll offer second. >> Yeah, that's the >> um roll call. Deputy Mayor Tumi, >> yes.
>> Councilwoman Clark Collins, >> no. >> Councilman Diaz, >> yes. >> Mayor Gaines, >> yes. >> Resolution passes. Need a motion to go to public comment for our second public comment. This is for three
minutes on any item that you would like to discuss. I'll keep time for you. Um, just come forward, state your name, your municipality, and then you can have your time. I'll let you know when we run uh close. Can I have a motion to open to the public? >> I a second.
>> All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay. If you can say your name. Sergey Toltoy Hackinson. First off, I want to have a moment of
silence. Five seconds for Mr. James L. Merl Senior who passed away on May 19, 2026. He was a city employee for 20 years. Okay. So, I heard the city manager give some of his uh feedback on what people
have been giving out in terms of lip service for the past uh 6 months. So, I just had something to uh add to that fire. So last week in Jersey City at PS17, we had legislators
out there giving a uh press conference where you had a zero vision agenda that they're implementing in Jersey City. And during that time at the four-way stop sign,
there were six cars that went through the signs and the Jersey City police had to give them tickets. So with all the lip service we've been given and what Jersey City is now doing because they told their police officers
to step it up and protect the public. What we need in hacken sack is more safety as you're going to hear later on. So that was my comment on safety. But here we go to the meat. Whereas in 2020
the COVID 19 era, New Jersey voters approved and amended New Jersey Constitution to allow for the legalization of controls form of marijuana called cannabis for adults at least 21 years of
age. And whereas on February 22nd, 2021, Governor Murphy signed into law the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Enforcement Assistance and Marketplace Monetization Act. Whereas section 31B of the act also
stipulates, however, that any municipal relulation or prohibits pro prohibition must be adopted within 180 days of the effective date which was August 22nd, 2021. And whereas pursuant
to section 31B of the act, failure to do so shall mean that for a period of five years thereafter the growing, cultivating and manufacturing selling reselling of cannabis and cannabis items shall be permitted to consumers shall be a conditional use. And whereas at the
conclusion of the initial or any sub subsequent 5-year period following a failure to enact local regulations or prohibit prohibit well, you know what I mean? >> Yeah. The municipality shall again have
180 days to adopt an ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses. I say before you that August 2026 that the city of Hackinack, New Jersey, the county seat of Bergen County should
in my opinion resend and prohibit this vice for the children, families, and community of the city of Hackinson. And I'd like to commend the work of the fire department, the health department
in getting things uh in order so that we could get uh the green team money. And I like to also say, like, as I said previously, you got to pay your civic employees, the strongest, DPW, the bravest,
the police, and lastly, you heard them out there, the FD, the fire department. Thank you. >> They're saying hi to you right now. Thank you so much, Mr. Tolstery. Thank you. Hi. Uh, Bill Wley, uh, 464 Kaplan
Avenue, 23-year resident, um, Hackinstack High School, rain garden caretaker. Looks nice, right guys? Anybody see it? >> See it every day. Good. You too. Um, a few I actually came didn't come to there, but as long as I'm here, a quick comment about the uh the heroes banners
on that. Some people have actually put money in and done it. Uh, from what we understand is it's not even advertised on the city website anymore. And there's only a couple of people waiting, but it has to be get up to 10 people before they'll actually send the things through. So, while I'm sitting there with hoping my my dad gets up there, I'
I've put the thing through the 125. I'm still waiting. I hope the city has some kind of plan not just to push bills off till next year on that that at least at some point they're going to try to get those people up at some point. That's just my request on that. Um second thing, as long as I'm here, um I've been wanting to do my driveway for a bunch
for a long time, but there's a law in Hackac that says the bottom half of the law the driveway at least every contractor tells me has to be concrete. And uh so since that time, I've not done my thing. I don't really want the concrete. It looks ugly and and costs a lot more money. in a time of
affordability. Um, why can't we try to make our neighbor our neighborhood nicer in terms of that without throwing an extra thousand dollars in for concrete on that? I imagine asphalt deteriorates quicker and maybe it's it's stuff like that goes into the sewer system. I don't know if that's the reason why for the
law, but anyway, I'd love to see if that law could be changed or an exception could be given so I could redo my driveway. Uh third thing, um I've kind of thing with I've had a lot of issues with parking like everybody does in the city, but I've also seen our parking people come out not just to downtown,
but come into our side streets onto my dead end street multiple times on there. I've been harassed by them at this since my complaint to the city manager's office. I mean, not complaint, comment, uh when I was doing the banners thing, the same day I was doing the banners thing. Um I haven't been hassled, but I mean, even they're coming down at 8:30
in the morning. I'm I'm taking out my recycling and someone, is that your car? Is that your car? Whose car is that? And I'm like, first of all, just drive by. You'll see the sticker on it. I'm like, how could you not know it's my car? I've been there a year. So, um, you know, it's been out there for a year, that car. Um, so I I just I know the city
always needs money. They're trying to find revenue sources and stuff, but I mean, trying to dig. I had a guy working came there, a plumber that came, a plumber's helper, so he didn't take the truck with him. He took a car. He was there out in the street for two hours and 15 minutes. I just came out there as they're coming by. They're about to give
him a ticket. I mean really 2 hours and 15 minutes they're that on top of things on the side streets on a dead end street Kaplan Avenue way at the end by you know by the uh Home Depot. I just I know we always need money. I just it's just a comment that I don't think that you know trying to get it always from our
citizens is the way it's tough enough to park downtown on that. I always see police and everyone else they was to park illegally just to get their sandwiches. Matter of fact, one of the parking people was parked illegally the other day when I went down there for a haircut. I took a picture of the car because, "Why are you taking a picture of my car?" I'm like, "Well, you're
parked illegally." I'm like, "If I did that, you'd give me a ticket." She goes, "I'm going to give you a ticket anyway." And I'm like, "Why?" So then she started following me home for a little while. Eventually, she turned off on that. I'm not sure she's trying to intimidate me or not, but I know you have lots of parking issues and stuff here on that.
Uh, you got a lot of those cars. you seem to invested a lot of money in your parking things on that. Are we getting a return for that other than some of our taxpayers and homeowners being harassed? I mean, I don't even go downtown anymore. >> I don't want to interrupt you, but we're we're over time. Okay. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Thank you. >> Sorry. >> Good evening, Randy Ger Hackinac. Um, first of all, I just want to thank this city council and the previous city council for recognizing Ruth Bower Nurse
Stadder and renaming the uh gallery after her. That was a great honor. She lived long enough to see it come to fruition. As you know, she passed away the other day. Um, secondly, um, kind of piggybacking on the Hometown Heroes
thing. Uh, as you know, I used to do the Main Street Live concert series at, um, was it State Street Park, Atlantic Street Park? That's before it was ever renamed the Sounds of the City or
whatever it is. At that time it was more multicultural meaning we had a Latin night, a Indian night, uh me, you know, a Middle Eastern Indian night, a LGBTQ evening, the first hometown heroes,
hometown celebrities, scholarships of $1,000 each for high school students. Okay, that's community engagement. That's how you do um that's how you introduce Hackinack to Hackinack where
it was an integrated crowd that got to know each other. People who lived here in the town who never really associated with one another, they started to associate with one another because music brings people together. Okay, so that
was one of the things that we did. Secondly, or thirdly, I want to talk real quick about my food pantry. Our food pantry, All Access Community Development Corporation, feeds a very large portion of the city. Um, but it
seems like when it's time for photo ops, things like that, CFA, who those employees get paid, punch in 9:00, punch out 5:00, you know, don't live here. where the volunteers that work for me at
my food pantry are senior citizens handing out food to other seniors and ver and citizens here of Hackinack giving real groceries. You're not calling to make an appointment to say I'm poor and I'm hungry. You just get
online and we give you food. Okay, CFA, you got to call. You got to make an appointment. yet. I I never saw a broke person make an appointment to say I'm broke. Okay. And then lastly, we want to do a hiphop
concert in Fashini Park and we're asking the city to participate. I already met with the city um manager and a couple of other people and this is similar to basically I did a event at Bergen Pack.
It was supposed to last three days. It lasted three months. was celebrating um hip-hop as far as Bergen County. These three towns in particular have a strong connection to hiphop, especially the monetization of hip-hop. Monetization of
hip-hop was started in Englewood with Sylvia Robinson, the Sugar Hill Gang. Okay. So I think it's only right when you have all these local people who had seinal hits or you you know you had Teddy Ted and all these other people who
people know them locally doesn't mean they're known nationally or any place else but you have a heavy concentration of these people here and I would like I invited and I sent a email to Tom and a couple of other people to come down to
their um vibes in the garden on on June 28th to get a good idea of what it'll look like. So you're talking about 50 and 60 and 65 year old >> I don't want to I don't want to interrupt. I was looking for a little piece but we're we're over time. So if you could just bring your point to a close you can wrap up.
>> Okay. So you're talking about 65 65 and under hip hoppers. Okay. So I don't see the danger there. Let's all party together and have a good time. Thank you. Thank you. >> Hello. Good evening. I'm Rich Serbo. Uh, Spring Valley Avenue. It's never going
to be u addressed. I guess I I'll contact someone else, maybe the state about Spring Valley Avenue. And uh the the weight uh posting on the on the road. Uh it's I think it's four tons
uh that's posted. It's been there since I'm a kid. Okay. So there are vehicles going up and down Spring Valley Avenue that they could be a million pound that some of these trailer trucks are huge.
Okay, please somebody at least police or take a look. Okay, if not I'm going to call the state and see what they say about it. I I don't know who's wrote it as a county. Okay, blah blah blah. It's okay. So, uh, last week, uh, you know, we say things we want to say when we
come up here. We don't want to be afraid to say what we want. So, last week when I mentioned that you had assistance from one of the major parties to get elected, there's a payback for that. You're going
to have to pay back Democratic assistance getting you elected. So it's um it's inevitable. Okay. So what I'm saying is the narrative that you're going to
espouse from this council is going to be democratic. I mean we're we're nonpartisan here for a reason. Okay. Uh local government should remain nonpartisan. It's been a discussion for many years
and it deals with city services and and large party money should not be involved in city services. Okay. Uh they can they can have an effect. Okay. Other things about city services. Now uh city services you know we we don't get much
for our our our tax uh payment. Okay. Uh city services should increase for homeowners any I don't know everybody. Uh, but I don't see why homeowners can't get assistance with uh tree uh uh tree
surgeon uh or tree cutting or you should be at least you can get on a list, hey, we need help getting our trees cut because every time you get your trees cut, it's like three, five, $8,000. So why why can't uh homeowners that
property is taxed to the hilt here get uh some assistance on uh tree removal or tree uh cutings? Uh you know it it costs a lot to maintain trees on your property and the city taxes our property big
time. Uh so uh uh one more last thing. Uh so when I say something also here it's just total silence. Okay I I I can feel it. You could feel the silence here. This the silence is deafening as they say. So I feel the silence and then
at the end of the meeting somebody makes a statement. Uh the mayor last week made some outlandish statement. I didn't even know I didn't even understand what he what he was talking about. So, uh, can we kind of even that out a little? I
mean, cuz it's it's like playing volleyball with with no ball here with you. >> It's past time, Mr. Serbo. >> Yeah. Okay. Time is up. >> One second. Hold on. I'm going to ask just pause for just a moment, please. >> Go ahead. Okay. >> So, Mr. Francis, if you don't mind, just
give me just a quick moment, but I just I I would hate to for there to be any silence. So, I just want to be very clear. Just give me a moment. So, I want to make sure that I address your comment in a way that you can hear and in a way that's also on films that no one can say that you weren't here to hear it. So,
just if you could just stay right there. So in terms of partisanship, the only person who has mentioned partisanship at this meeting and the previous meeting and the meeting before that and the meeting before that and I
think almost every meeting that you attend is you. >> Okay? >> It's not hold on one second please. It's not any of us. It's you and it's you repeatedly. So to say that partisan politics are being injected into the
city of Hackinack, the only person who's trying very hard to inject it is you, sir. >> Hold on one second. Hold on. You had your time. I'm going to I'm not I'm giving you the courtesy of a response. >> The other thing that I just want to
address is there is a lot of work taking place in the city of Hackinack that I think we all should be very proud of. When you are on your way back to Spring Valley A, you will probably have a difficult time because of some of the mil roads that will be almost any way
that you try and get back to Spring Valley A. Absolutely. And that's road paving that's being done >> throughout the city that is those are upgrades. There is PCNG PC uh PSENG that's doing some of that work. They are
doing some tree pruning. But we come to these meetings and we propose things and we discuss things to try and figure out how we can maximize service and maximize your bang for your buck in terms of your taxes without also having
a negative impact on your taxes which is also something that you have spoken about that you would like more services and you don't want your tax bill to go up. We're trying to balance those things. We're doing our best that we can. So, I just want to make sure that you've heard the response. I'm gonna ask
for you to take your seat and I'm gonna call Mr. Francis up. But thank you very much, sir. Okay, Mr. Francis, if you can come forward. Thank you. >> Hello everybody. How you doing? Um, before I start, I just want to uh say uh on behalf of the guys at DPW, we
appreciate the recognition. Um, you know, we always go straight forward and do the best we can for the city. So, thank you for the recognition for what we do for the for Hackin Sack. Um, so I'm going go through this. I know I got three minutes, so I'm going be quick
with it. Um, we're not trying not to miss anything on here. Um to the mayor, council members, and residents of Hackinack. Um on behalf of the DPW employees of um Hackinack,
uh we continue to uh still have issues within DPW. Um as the council completes its first year, we went want to acknowledge that changes have been made. Um, one of the most
significant changes was bringing back the heat at the DPW main garage. Um, six winters was a long time. Um, we thank you for the addition of several new vehicles, pickup trucks, uh, work vans, and heavy duty trucks along with other equipment. Um although the removal of
the superintendent of DPW has opened the door for change, many of the issues employees raised during the um tenure his tenure has remained re um un has remained unresolved. Um unfortunately
intimidation, harassment and fear of retaliation continue to be concerns among employees. Uh we believe that many of the same management practices remain in place under assistant superintendent of DPW and human resource sources
directors. Um workers continue to feel uncomfortable bringing forward concerns because they do not believe their complaints will be addressed fairly. We believe changes are needed to res to restore trust and ensure all employees
have a safe and professional workplace. Uh safety remains um another major issue. Employees continue to work with vehicles and equipment that are um unsafe and in need of repair. At the same time, new pickup trucks and
vehicles appear to be assigned to department heads or departments with less operational need while frontline sanitation and parks employees continue to work with aging equipment. We asked
the council in re in in in we ask the council to review vehicle allocation and prioritize the departments that they rely on these vehicles every day to serve residents. We have also never hired a night mechanic since the
retirement of homes in return creating more uh responsibilities for the day mechanics which is not fair. Um, we are not here simply to complain. We are looking for solutions and a path forward. We want to work with the
council to improve conditions for employees and strengthen services for residents. Um, one important step in beginning negotiations on a new labor contract as soon as possible. Low wages, rise, r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r r rising cost of living and difficult
uh working conditions have made it increasingly challenging to recruit and retain qualified employees. These issues ultimately affect the quality and efficient efficiency of services provided to to the people of Hackinack. And I I'm not going to lie, it's hard
coming to work every single day because a lot of us have multiple jobs that we got to work after DPW. Um, we need to we also ask the council to consider creating opportunities for advancement within sanitation department positions
such as sanitation director, sanitation inspectors, and recycling coordinator as well as other supervisory and specialized roles. This would provide employees with career growth opportunities while improving accountability
productivity and service quality. Investing in employees benefits not only the workforce but also the residents who depend on these services every day. Our goal is not to is not conflict. Our goal is a safer workplace, fair treatment for
employees, better equipment, opportunities for advancement, and a strong partnership with the council to improve city services. We appreciate your time and attention, and we hope to work together toward meaningful
solutions and benefit that benefit both employees and the residents of Hackinac. We will love to speak more on this matter and hope uh to meet with you and discuss things further obviously after the meeting. Thank you.
>> Thank you Mr. Francis. THANK YOU GUYS. Thank you. >> Peace and blessings to everyone. Uh especially the Whiting family if they're listening. Unfortunately, I couldn't be here this evening for the presentation. So, I wanted to say that publicly to
them. I also want to thank the Hackinack Police Department and Engine 11, especially Officer uh Frank, who helped celebrate my aunt's 103rd birthday a couple of weeks ago. Um they were great.
And in honor of that, I wore my cousin, my aunt Alice's daughter's police hat. She passed away. New York City Police Department. So, I wore that. I've told um the chief that I would wear that to thank them for what they did on her birthday. Um the situation on P Street
is is pretty much deadly. I know I talked about the intersection of um Pak and Hannes where they had that bad accident. I don't know if you reached out to anybody at the county, but I did. I spoke to someone in the roads department uh named Craig.
I told him I want him to just survey the area and see what he suggested. I was suggesting a no passing on the right. You're not supposed to pass on the right anyway, but no passing signs on Pay Street. Not only in Hackinack, but in Maywood, it's a couple of bad places,
too. So, I suggested um that to him, and I guess we'll see what happens with that. Uh there was one other thing I want to discuss but I forgot. So um if I can get any feedback on all of that and um again thank you to um Hackers Police Department.
>> Thank you M. >> Good evening everybody. Bridget I'm here to speak about the cancellation of the summer league program basketball program. Um, and the reason I'm here to speak about it is because we've already
honored someone who was dedicated, mentored children throughout our town and even outside of our town. But we're cancelling a summer lead that we just recently got back that has been
successful based upon the city's lack of moving the needle forward. Not the lack of the people who were running the program, but the lack of you guys. So with that being said, the problem here
that we have is it's almost like as if you want our children to not have anything to do during the summer. But when it comes to soccer or foot, not football, but any other sports, you you move forward. But here we are not having
anything for the children of Hackinack to do. So I'm just trying to almost wrap my head around the situation here. Um, and the other thing about a budget, does the recreation have their own budget or are we all conglomerated into one
budget? Because I see years ago that each department had their own budget. Health department had its own budget, recreation had its own budget, you know. So, I'm just trying to figure out you you're giving out what nickels and dimes
to these budgets here. Are you forecasting for the budget for the following year? because it doesn't seem like that. It's like, you know, you come back to me and tell me what you need and I'll tell you what I'll give you kind of situation. That's not going to work. Go
to other towns. Look at their programs. Bake Garfield, Clifton, Hasbro Heights, >> Englewood, >> Englewood. Yeah. I mean, you need to take a real good look at yourselves here because you're talking about the kids of
Hackinack. They've already been denied what? No middle school sports. >> What? >> No. Yeah. No middle school sports. >> I don't believe that. >> No. No freshman sports. >> But now you're going to take away the summer league. >> Are you kidding me? >> I think you need to have this
conversation again. And the promotion part would lay upon the people who would run the program, but I think you want to put it back into the recreational part. And they don't even have a clue of how to run a basketball program.
So here we are again. Money conversation we had who handles your person who's handling that department. She's not equipped for that. She don't know nothing about sports. What she is is a token that will listen to you guys
of what not to give to the recreation department. That's what she is. Unfortunately, this is a woman that works what? DBW recycling part-time and have a department head program. That's two jobs. >> Mer,
>> you trying to save money? What are we doing here, >> Miss Rucker? We're over time. You can wrap up your point, though. >> So, what Yeah. What are we doing here? >> I can respond if you like. >> No, hold on. I I got it.
>> Okay. Thank you. Good evening, Marty Smith, Prospect Avenue. I'm a member of the condo co-op advisory board. I'd like to report that the flashing pedestrian crossing sign at Prospect and
Berry Street is finally back in working order after being out for several months. So, I think that intersection will be safer now with that back in order. Uh secondly, the street identification
sign at Prospect and Golf Place is missing. I don't know if there was an accident on that intersection, but that sign should be replaced to help identify that intersection.
Item three, I asked at the last council meeting if the council had a scheduled date for the installation of crosswalks and flashing pedestrian crossing signs at the intersection of Anderson Street
and Union Street. And at last month's meeting, you said not at the time. Do we have any date now set for that installation? the manager. You can continue with your comment. The manager is taking
>> Okay. Uh I read where you are going to do upgrades for Atlantic Street. Uh we have a couple of problems there. About a year or a year and a half ago, a
very large pedestrian crossing device was installed at Atlantic and Prospect that overhangs Prospect Avenue. That device must have cost thousands of dollars to purchase and to install. And
I'm afraid to say that that money was totally wasted for the simple reason that there are not that many pedestrians who cross Prospect Avenue at Atlantic on a daily basis. That device should have
been installed on Prospect at Thompson Street, which is one block south of Atlantic and where our committee estimates that between 50 and 100 pedestrians use that crosswalk on a
daily basis. Now, I don't know if it's feasible to disassemble this device and move it to Thompson Street where it would be of greater use to a larger number of pedestrians on a daily basis.
The other factor we have concerning Atlantic and Prospect is that during rush hour traffic, traffic can back up north and southbound from Beach Street to Atlantic Street and from Essex Street
to Atlantic Street. We have a lot of drivers who don't have sense enough to keep intersections clear. So, what we really need at that location are flashing stop signs that would give
drivers exiting Atlantic Street onto Prospect an opportunity to make their turns more safely. And at the same time, also have the traffic department paint a box on the intersection and signs that
say, "Keep intersection clear. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you, MR. >> How you doing, sir? I'm Jir Dus. I'm a DPW worker. Um, born and raised here. Um, I've been working here for about two
years. I love working for my town. I'm born and raised here. Um, but I have to speak on behalf of my employees as well. It's hardest it's hard to live in this town when you don't make that much money. Um, I was my daughter was born in my
homes two years ago and I had to work two jobs just to maintain my household. And for someone that works for this city, I don't think it's I don't think it's a reason for me to work two jobs when I
have a a city job, you know. Um I was told that if I want more money, I have to go get my CDL. I'm on a process of getting that. And when you look at the step guide, there's no growth at all.
So on behalf of my fellow employees, I believe there there needs to be some type of change in here immediately or you're going to see a lot of employees employers leave
and we take care of this city. I I I have my uniform on to this right now. I wear this proudly and I want to keep continue working for my city and being taken care of in the process.
It's pretty much all I got to say. >> Thank you. Anyone else from the public wishing to speak? Okay, seeing none, motion to close to the public. Oh, I'm sorry. Yes. Oh, okay. >> I got thrown off. There were lots of
hands up, but no one was coming forward. I got >> I totally apologize. >> School trigger. No, you're good. I wasn't, >> you know, then again guys I want better for them guys. >> I want better for them. They don't They
want better for them. I come here every day. Um I even tried to speak to the manager today. He didn't call me. >> So he know I I went I even gave him the number. He ain't even call. Right. So I don't even look for help for them no more
>> because it ain't no help. Like I always say, they together. These guys need help. I'm the only super I'm the only I'm the only I'm the only supervisor. It shouldn't be the only supervisor. I got over 40 employees. I'm the only
supervisor. When they ain't there, who the supervisor? >> You want to be the supervisor today? You want to be That ain't how it's supposed to go. That's not how it's supposed to go. This man been here This man been
here 20 something years. He has to be He has to assist me to be a supervisor. They won't they won't even give it to him. Why would Why they not giving it to somebody who been here 20 something years? >> He know the job better than me.
But it's it's it's sad because they depend on me, right? I got to give them orders, but sometime I don't feel like I want to give them no orders. I'm just going to be honest because you ain't treating the guys fair, right? You ain't giving them nothing. You ain't trying to give them nothing. You ain't trying to help them grow. It's
sad. We ain't under the same union. You know, I'm under different union, but it's just my genuine wanting to do right. I came here to do right. I I'm I'm I'm on morals and principles. your best friend. >> That's what I'm about. I don't want to
cut corners. I don't want to say give me more and don't give them more. That's not what I'm about. I can't live like that. I won't even be able to sleep, right? I just want right for the guys and they bother me every day because it it it conflicts with our with
the relationship we supposed to have because they believe I could do more. I can't. There's nothing that I can say to anybody in the building to help these guys. They they need help like like the brother just said, right? I know we ain't trying to get rich. Ain't nobody
trying to get rich, but someone wants to get compensated for their job. We get out here. We do the job hard every day with less. >> You they don't see us. They y'all guys don't see what we do every day. >> Right. We was just down four vehicles the other day. Anybody know that? >> Ain't nobody going to talk about it.
Four vehicles, right? I got to get the mechanic that's sitting back there. He work all day. I'm surprised he here. I'm I'm I'm He should be sleep because he works all day on vehicles. You got like three or four mechanics that got to take care of 300 vehicles in the city, right?
It it it it I don't I don't get it. I I even hate asking them sometime. You can ask him. Might go, "Hey, Mike, I'm sorry. Hey, I'm sorry, man. I know you tired. You got something to do. I got a vehicle that's coming. It's broke. I really need to get it back out there. We got a brand new truck in there. They saying we can't use it.
>> Why not? >> They said they got to come and they they got to come here and they got to get a signature for us to use it. >> Right. Brand new vehicle. >> Well, I bet you >> I don't I don't I still I don't get it. We You got four vehicles down and you
got a brand new vehicle right here and we still can't use it. I I'm not understanding. I never get any good feedback for me because I want to be honest. No one. It's It's like the people don't like the honest people. Like if I want to bend the rule a little bit, then it's okay. But if I be honest
and I speak the truth and I'm speaking fact, they want you to just shut up and tell them what to do. >> That's just what it is. >> That's just what it is. >> Listen, in my heart, right, I know how to be something else, right? I know how to be it, but that's not what God want
me to be. >> I know that's right. >> That's not So I walk and I stand on truth. I ain't afraid of nothing. That's because of my truth. I stand on the truth. That's why I'm never afraid of anything. But these guys need it and I need to be
able to see these guys grow. Like them positions they say. Like I told you, I had a I had when when that snowstorm came, I told them I had a plan. Go get some private vendors. They told me they can't get private vendors, right? You put three trucks in
each section. I put a labor in the truck with the truck driver. He showed them the route, which way to go. My plan ain't go nowhere, right? So, I don't want it to make it because it seemed like when something happened, they wanted to make it seem like DPW. No, we have answers. Nobody's listening. Just
like we talk about with the inspector. We ain't got no inspector, right? We may see somebody, somebody might be riding down the street and see something because that's on their way and then want to call and say, "Hey, tell them guys to pick that stuff up over there, right?" No, you need someone who's actually riding and getting this stuff.
When we are out here in the morning, I got the guys. I got the plan. I draw the plan out. I gave it to them. No one want to listen. But again, when we see things, I want you guys to know it's not DPW. DPW is trying to find solutions, but no one's listening.
>> And I done gave it. And I done gave it already. I gave it. No one's listening, >> sir. >> No. No one's listening. >> Sorry. I don't I don't want to interrupt you. >> No, no, no. It's all right. It's all right. So >> I excuse me >> I don't mean to interrupt but Mayor Reed we're kind of fed up.
>> I listen I completely understand and I and I want to be clear you know as someone who is a public employee who somehow sometimes has to go um before a body and have three minutes and get
dinged and be told the time is up go sit down. I anyone who's spoken from DPW has had far above the the amount of time that that was allotted for today. >> So well time is all I can control in
this moment. So so I can give you the time. That's what I can give you today. So what what I want to make clear is that in terms of personnel,
we hear everything that you're saying. And some of the things that have been described, a lot of the things that have been described are things that sound like they are systemic things that are
for years, decades, and I understand that you would like to see some action. What I'm going to ask for is for
What I'm going to ask for is for just a little bit more patience, particularly because some of these things for the five of us, it is the first time
that we're hearing about some of these things. So, while I understand that they've been raised and they've been re-raised and they've been re-raised and I get where you're at, but different ears. So, what we will do is we will
talk with the city manager what um in whatever form is most appropriate, even if it's in a capacity where we can just listen and not be able to respond because we have a certain jurisdiction.
But in terms of the things that you are raising, I appreciate and we all appreciate you coming forth and and bringing them because I know it's not easy cuz I I've done it. I do it. So I know it's not easy. Um but I thank you for for raising
it and ask that you continue to raise issues so that they just catch our ears and catch the ears of the public. And and the last thing that I'll say on it is I understand that you all are our employees and we have a certain responsibility to you but many of you are also our residents and we have a
responsibility to you in that regard as well. So um again I hear you, we hear you. will confer with the manager and um the manager will will set something up
with um set up a meeting to discuss so we can have a more robust conversation about this where where there isn't >> the time limit. All right. Thank you. Thank you everyone. Thank you for coming. >> Anyone else from the public wishing to
speak? >> Let's get it done. Okay. >> All right. >> Shame of the devil. >> Mr. Tolster, were were you in this section or the other section? I don't remember at this point. I've lost track. Is this section? Okay. Yeah, I think you
were already up for this section. Sorry. Anyone else? Um, any other member of the public wishing to speak? >> Alison, do you have the name of the supervisor just for the record that spoke or do you need it? Okay.
>> Sorry. Uh I don't still here. Okay. We'll get it. All right. Uh okay. Motion to close to the public. >> Thank you. >> All in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Any abstensions?
>> Okay. Um let you go and then we'll >> Yeah. Thanks. I just really wanted to address Miss Rucker again. Uh she and I had a very good conversation on the phone the other day and I tried to explain to her the city of Hackinac did
not cancel the summer league basketball program. The summer league basketball program at Carver Park was run by common elite which is a separate organization. Um they had run it for the past year or two. Um they wanted to run it again this year. When we looked at what happened
last year, the arrangement that we had last year, which was different mayor and council, different recreation superintendent, different city manager, the arrangement that they that was in place last year was that the city somehow was paying half of the referee
fees for every game. Mind you, there was 34 teams in this summer league and only a handful of them were from Hackinack. They were all out of town teams that were paying $550 per team to play in this summer league. And the city of Hackinack
fitted footed half of the bill for that. So it was costing the city residents quite a bit of money to run this summer league program for 30 out of town teams. Fast forward to this year, we wanted the program to succeed. We wanted it to happen. But I also will remind you we we
the wreck runs a regular basketball season as they do every other sport. The regular basketball season is not in the summertime, it's in the fall. So, it's not that we don't run basketball, but it's that's our recreation season is in the fall. Just as soccer is in the spring and track is so forth and
football, baseball. So, to say that we canled the the summer league basketball program, it was never a recreation program to begin with. It was a common elites program that the recreation previous administration somehow um partnered with them. Although
it ended up costing the city and the residents quite a bit of money when they were taking in quite a bit of money from 30 something of these teams paying $550 each to to play in it. So I just I just want to make that clear. So this year we sat down with common elite. We wanted the program to be successful. We
actually said you run the program. We will give you the park, both basketball courts, 7 days a week, and the Eminem building as your backup if it's too warm, if it's raining. And all we ask for is $1,000 to at least we could say
that we per got permits for it so that if any other resident was looking to utilize the park or the rec center, we could say it's already permitted out to the summer league basketball program running being run by common elite. Um, they came back to us and said that they couldn't put it together uh for the full
summer months. They were going to ask if we could just do it for a full month. I said, "No problem. We'd still love to see it happen. Just give us the $500 and so that we can at least permit it out. It would be for a month of both basketball courts. The Eminem building has its backup." And uh we just found
out yesterday that they wrote me an email and said that they weren't able to put it together and they were canceling the program. So I just want to make it clear it wasn't the city that canceled it. It was it was common elite that couldn't make it work on their end which and I applaud them for trying to make it work and I I met with them and I know
them but they unfortunately for whatever reason weren't able to put it together but the city supported it fully. We just couldn't support it with taxpayer money because it was 30 teams from outside of the city that didn't make sense for the city to pay that kind of money. So that's I just wanted to clear up some of the facts so that you all know that. So
thank you. >> Thank you. Okay, deputy mayor Hello everyone. So before we wrap up tonight, I just want to take a moment to congratulate the students from the Hackinack High School indoor and spring track teams who
who are being recognized this evening. Your achievements are a reflection of the hard work, discipline, and determination you've shown throughout the season, and they should all be proud. I also want to recognize everyone who received a proclamation tonight. Each
honore, organization, and group we celebrated represents the very best of our community and we are grateful for the positive impact you make every day. So as I was sitting here and I was saying, "Oh wow,
we have so much good stuff going on in Hackinack." We do. But you know with that we also have to um sit here and and
listen to the other side. And we did and we hear you. And as the mayor pointed out, um we hear everything that comes to this uh podium and and we try to do our
best. We've been here just about a year and we've tackled a lot of different things and we've made some headway and we've done some good stuff. We've done a lot of good stuff and we're not done yet
and um but we promise you that we will try to make the best out of everything that comes our way and try to deal with it the best way to do the best you can. >> Okay. So that being said, um on behalf of the
council, thank you to everyone who joined us this evening. Our honores, families, friends, coaches, volunteers, and residents. Again, congratulations. Please have a wonderful evening and a safe trip home and a great night.
>> Thank you, Councilwoman. >> Um before we close tonight, I want to speak out. >> Is your mic? Um before we close tonight, I want to speak out about what our community went through on Saturday. The storm was swept. The storm that swept through
Hackinack was frightening, sudden, and unlike anything many of us have uh seen here. Trees came down, homes and cars were damaged, and for a moment, our city felt shaken in a very real way. Some reports even suggested it may have been
a tornado, which is hard to imagine until you see the aftermath with your own eyes. As difficult and unsettling as the damage has been, we are profoundly grateful that there were no reported human casualties. Property can be repaired and trees can
be replanted, but safety of our residents is always our greatest concern. I want to thank our first responders, DP DPW, our city manager, and every neighbor who stepped up to help clear debris, check on others, and support those who needed assistance.
Moments like this remind us of the strength and resilience of our community. And we will keep showing up for one another just as we always do. As we move forward, let's hold on to the gratitude that everyone made it through safely.
And let's continue to support the neighbors who are still cleaning up, still repairing, still recovering. Hackinac is resilient because its people are resilient. Just a reminder.
Um, that's all I have to say on that. And I just want to remind everyone as the um city manager has mentioned that good news is we have Junth coming up the
celebration this Saturday at Carver Park and I hope to see you guys there. Thank you, >> Councilman. Thank you, Mayor. Um good evening.
Um I can't believe but we are officially wrapping up our very first year. Uh it's now official. I wish you know that we had end up at tonight's session in a better note but the fact that we just
heard the uh report the concern from DPW is uh really concerning. Uh the only thing I can say on my end is rest assured that we listen to you and some way somehow we're going to take
care of that. >> Okay. With that said, uh I want to extend a sincere thank you to our city manager, Don Freeman, our city attorney, Richard Malajeri, uh the clerk office led by Tim and
Allison, and all of our department heads, you all keep the wheels turning. To my fellow council members, thank you for your incredible dedication and partnership.
This been a very eventful year because I remember when the first session after we were sworn in, we uh had the privilege uh and we made the decision of uh
rescending five redevelopment projects because they were not in the best interest of Hackinac. Today almost one year later we
are working and we are in progress uh for a couple of uh development projects for housing uh you know affordable housing units that eventually we're going to announce. So hopefully it
will happen very soon. Something that we really need. Okay. Um and also very important is to thank you to uh all our residents to everyone who comes out speaks up and
participate night in night out. You are the heart of Hackinack. It's been an amazing first year and I'm so excited to see that we can achieve together what we can achieve together in
the year ahead. So thank you all again and I'm looking forward to see you on the different activities that we have prepared for you starting with uh June uh June uh 19th uh 4 of July etc etc. So
please uh keep informed and let's get together and continue to work together for the better of Akinac. Thank you so much and good night. Okay. Thank you, Councilman. Good evening and thank you to everyone who stuck around till the end.
So, um I just want to echo what folks have said in terms of once again um congratulations to uh the Whiting family for um having this this street. Um and you know, Scooter
was just a a a great guy. I was not one of his athletes. I know that may come as a surprise to folks. Um, but just a really smart and um, considerate and thoughtful person and someone who just very deeply loved Hack
and Sack. And one of the things that I really take away from him is that regardless of who was in office, regardless of what was going on, um regardless of whatever challenges, he truly was someone who believed in the
possibility of this city, the future of this city. um just incredibly optimistic about uh that tomorrow can be better if we all work together and have community and and help to make that happen. So um just a real honor and again I just want
to say Ruth Newader for those who uh didn't have the privilege of knowing her. Ruth just a complete dynamite a force. Um, it is very cliche to say this wouldn't happen without you, but quite literally the gallery at Hackpack would
not have happened without Ruth. She was an advocate. She was um someone who curated that space for probably half a decade, maybe a little bit longer, without ever receiving a scent. Just did it as a community volunteer. And um if
you've been in the hackpack up until maybe last year, any of the art that you saw, student art, resident art, art from artists around the world, Ruth was responsible for that being in the gallery. And so, um, just want to acknowledge her.
I I have to say I I'm I'm glad I think this was a good way to end this this first year. Honestly, I think it's good to hear what people have to say. And I think it's good to hear, and I know you weren't contradicting that, but I think it's good to hear uh people's concerns
because that's what we're here for. And one of my takeaways from this meeting is the manager during his report uh read off about a half dozen or so things that people have come to meetings, they've
raised issue about, and then there was some level of answer and in some cases resolution. And ideally, that's what uh we'd like to see. A lot of us ran because we felt like people weren't
being heard when they came to these meetings. And so, we try to hear folks. We try to get answers. The answers aren't always answers that folks like, and I do understand that as well. But at least we try to take the time and give folks the dignity of an explanation and
not just do whatever it is that we'd like to do. We'd like to honor our folks who come forward and um and explain. Um with that, I just want to um answer or address just a couple of things. Miss Sharief, I'm not sure if you heard, but there was an update. Um I don't know if
you were here. Where's Oh, there she Thank you. It was It's the hat throwing me off. Um I don't know. Were you here for the manager's report? There were some updates that he gave about I think that intersection of Hannes and Pake. I don't know if you were here for >> Okay. All right. So, the manager will talk to you after the meeting if if you don't mind, but he did have an update on
that. Um, I just want to make sure you heard that. Additionally, um, yes, all the departments do have a budget, but this is one of those things that, um, speaking about Wreck in particular, I I will say, you know, the budget is is
adopted almost midway through the year that the budget is in motion. And that's just that's not a Hackinack thing. That's a state of New Jersey thing. And so, um, that's something to me that just I'm sure someone in Trenton came up with a
very good reason as to why that's the case. I don't know if I quite understand it, but one of the things that, um, I think that we can do and one of the things that we've talked about is saying, what are the programs that we know are going to run? What are the
things that we know we have to spend money on? Particularly with Wreck, because Wreck is something that has a season. And there are certain events that you can count on every year and instead of it being exactly as was described where folks come and say this
is the scope of a project or this is the scope of a program that I would like to run. Is there money for it? We should be able to in advance be able to say here's what we're looking at um for the year ahead. And so I I hear that that
concern. Um, and I I use wreck only because that was the example that was offered, but I do think that a little bit more advanced planning um will go a long way. The the other thing I just want to uh
mention also is do I want to Yeah, sure. The other thing I just want to mention is in terms of um parking enforcement I you know the ordinances have times some of them are you know
hours are there's restriction from 2 to 6 whatever the case may be. Um this is one of those things where sometimes people come to the meetings and they say you have to better enforce the ordinances. People are parking in my spot. People are parking on my street. um this business has people parking
illegally and then I can't find parking when I come home and then when people get ticketed people are upset that they've been ticketed. So um it's not about revenue, it's about in some cases about safety. Um, I will say in my case
in terms of side street, um, I have to pass down Prospect every day, the end of Prospect between Ross and Spring Valley Avenue and people park right in the yellow strip almost to the corner and it's very
difficult to see. And that's at 7 in the morning. And so if you're not supposed to park there in the yellow, I'm not parking enforcement, but to me that's a 24/7. That's not a that's not a when it works
for you or doesn't work for you. And it's not about revenue. It's about safety because many times I have almost been hit by cars that have been parked in dangerous spots. And so these are things that we have to try and balance.
But I just want to raise um that concern that when we have ordinances, people want them enforced. If you want us to change an ordinance, raise that so that we can discuss that and consider that. But it doesn't make sense to have ordinances
that we're going to have a agreement to not enforce during certain hours. We should be changing the ordinance, not just not enforcing ordinances that we have so that it's fair for everyone. So, with that being said, um, thank you for coming out. Congratulations to the
students again. And with that, I'm going to ask, oh, please come to Junth. Please come to the 4th of July. I'm not sure offh hand when our next meeting is, but come to everything. All right. Junth is coming up next. All right. Uh, with that, I'm going to ask for a motion to adjurnn. >> I'll first
>> second. All in favor?