--------- here to come in and get changed. I probably need something. He was smart. This meeting is called pursuant to the provisions of the open public meetings law. Would you all please rise for the flag salute?
I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands. One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Roll call, please. Committeewoman Evans,
here. Committeeman Montgomery, present. Committeeman Dick, present. Deputy Mayor Tory, here. Mayor Gilmore, here. Minutes. I need a motion and approval of the uh regular committee minutes of July
8th and the work session minutes of July 29th. I need a motion in a second, please. Motion. Second. Miss Evans? Yes. Mr. Dick? Yes. Mr. Montgomery? Yes. Mrs. Tory? Yes. Mayor Gilmore?
Yes. I do not see Sergeant Antiduchi. So, we have uh all of our other reports A through G. I need a motion and ex to accept
motion. Second. Mr. Dick, yes. Mrs. Evans, yes. Mr. Montgomery, yes. Mrs. Tory, yes. Mayor Gilmore, yes. And Mayor Gilmore, if I may request uh to amend tonight's agenda to include
under the discussion presentation correspondence as a um the Hannesport Municipal Park Arbor program improvement project presentation by Janice Luton, environmental commission chair and Lanny's board member and that would be prior to um honoring Tish Kelly tonight.
Okay. as well as um adding resolution 2025-120-8 not part of consent as a standalone resolution uh supporting the pursuit of funding and exploring opportunities to purchase fire apparatus and that's to amend the budget with or I'm sorry amend
the agenda for those two items to be added so we need a motion in a second so moved second Mr. Montgomery yes Mr. Dick yes Mrs. Evans yes Mrs. Tory. Yes. Mayor Gilmore. Yes.
Okay. So, Mrs. Luton. Good evening. Hi, I'm Janice Luton and I'm representing the Environmental Commission tonight. Thank you for the chance to talk um tonight about um something that the environmental commission would like to do and we're
hoping to get some feedback and approvals for two signs to go into the municipal complex. Um hopefully I think you guys got a copy of the draft of the sign and um the proposed locations as to where we might put it. Um, for a couple
years the commission's been talking about putting the signs up so that the residents know about the labeled trees that are in the park. Um, they've been the la the labels have been in the park for a while. Um, a lot of them are along Deacon Road, but recently we put up a
web page that has a description of the trees, when they bloom, and other details. And we would like signs that sort of um lets the residents know that the trees are there as as they're walking. and also directs them to um more information. Um so the sign I think
that um you got is um it's half the size of what we're proposing. So it would be um uh 18 by 24 sign metal sign and um there's a QR code on there but the QR code goes to the environmental
commission page not directly to the arbor page. And the reason why I have it that way is because um currently the arbor page is a PDF and I think when I submit updates to that PDF the name seems to change and it would invalidate
the QR code. So as long as that's a PDF and we'll probably be changing that page as we add trees or um things like that, you know, something that comes up. So um so that's where that would go. Um the only thing when I was looking at the
sign um yesterday, I was thinking that it probably needs like a border around it. Um when you look at most signs, there's like an outline for some reason on the sign that I guess makes it stand out. So I'm thinking that I don't know if signs come with the board around it. Have to look at that.
But the signs I've been looking at um seem to be about $80 um per sign. So, we were talking about putting two um signs. Um since most of the trees are along Deacon Road, one of the signs would be if you're on Deacon Road, there's an
entrance towards the school that comes onto the walkway and then the bridge that goes into the main park. So, putting a sign there that would sort of face if you're walking in that direction um from the municipal park over the bridge onto the Deacon Road pathway. And
then the other sign we were talking about putting um near the um snack bar so that when we have events and things like that um people can learn about the fact that we have the Arbor Walk. So uh definitely appreciate any feedback, comments. Hopefully um this is something
that um we can get up the plan would be to get it there before uh the fall festival on September 20th if I can the sign ordered and put up. Thanks Dennis. And as you know, the green team is hoping to get some points
for this uh uh activity, too. Um I when we first discussed it, there was a third location for this sign. Uh what was the third location? And I think I came back and said, "Why don't we have three signs, but is that outside of the budget?" Uh I don't know exactly what we
put in the budget at this point. Um things got moved like they're clumped together. So um I think we estimated more than $80 a sign. So, as long as sometimes it feels like when you go to order something and then it's like, "Oh, well, it's more than Yeah, it's more.
But, um, so, um, I don't know. We talked about it at the meeting. I had suggested three locations and then I think, um, I was not there when we did a walk through to where the signs could go, but the other one I think we had proposed was, um, on the other side of the parking lot
over there's like a corner like where the tennis courts are. There's like a tree there. um maybe a sign there so that if you're starting that way um you know or if you're just going to the playground or the pickle ball court or something like that you would also see one but I don't know if three is
overkill or um the other thing we talked about was maybe doublesiding it um so that you know instead of the sign just facing one direction possibly one on each side of the post if that's possible um and Paul Paul you and I took a field
trip and did that um I guess it was last I don't know all the pushers together and um we think one side would be fine. We found we found two locations um that we think the one side would be good on where it would be and as as you mentioned where the first one was the tea where the walkway was on Deacon Road
and the other one um by the um by the concession stand. Um and uh it it appeared that to be the best place to put it was near the other signs. We talked back and forth about this a little bit, but it appeared to be that the big one is and it it I think we only
needed the one side there. But certainly if we could if we you know we could certainly take another field trip and find a third place. But you know that certainly that other location sounds good. But yeah, and Janice, from experience of putting up
signs, yes, a slightly larger sign rather than two sides usually is worth worth it if you're going to spend an extra 20 bucks. Yeah, I would say make it 24 by 30 instead of double-sided. Okay. Cuz people go around and look and see what's on the sign. Oh, okay. And can see it from further. That's just
my opinion from Yeah. No, I appreci um the content of the sign look okay as far as everybody's think. So hopefully it'll come out okay. Um, but thank you for the chance to present it and for us to put it up and hopefully it'll be up
before uh the event. So that would be great. Okay. Thank you. Thank you, Janice. All right, that being done, Leticia Kelly, please come to the podium.
Tonight we get to do something very special. get to celebrate with you. You've been part of sport your entire life and for more than 27 years, you've poured your time, your heart, and your
energy into making this community better. You shape young minds as a substitute teacher for 25 years, and you've been a voice on the environmental community since the day
founded excuse me, back in 1998. For nearly three decades, you also served on the Joint Lies Board, making sure that HSport works responsibly while protecting what makes us special.
Beyond all of that, your love of sports history and your incredible knowledge of our past have made you honorary sport, a title you've more than earned. So on
behalf of the township committee and all of our residents, we want to thank you for your decades of service with the countless volunteer allies for your unwavering commitment to this place we all call home. We are so grateful to you
and to many who celebrate you. Thank you very much. In fact, There's another one around. She get a picture with her family. Okay, we are now open for comments from
the public. This is with regards to agenda items only and comments are limited to five minutes. Is there anyone in the room that has any comments? Yes, ma'am. Paul Uland, uh, Creek from Creekwoods. Um, I wanted
to talk a little bit about Tish in case everyone here doesn't know who she is and what she did for our town. Um, I met her through the environmental commission. she had so much experience uh that when I came in it was just a a
very quick meshing of here's what we're working on um and really formed uh a very nice group. So, um, I want to let you know she was not only busy during the day doing substitute teaching. She was at joint land use board meeting, she
was at environmental commission meeting. She's a very active church member. Uh, also excellent singer in her choir. So, this woman was going like six days a week. So, I just want you to know she she left a beautiful um life's work in
our town. And I personally appreciate it. I know she had to go. That's okay. She's allowed. So, thank you. Thanks, Paula. Thanks, Paula. Anyone else in the room with regards to agenda items?
Is there anyone online this evening? Uh, there are two people online. Any comments with regards to agenda items? Uh, or Kristen? Not yet. Yeah, somebody was telling me Yeah,
this is agenda items. This is now on the agenda. No, you're right. No, that's right. Yeah, it is on the agenda. I'm sorry. It is on the agenda. That's my bad. Yes. Yeah. Nobody's online responding, so I'm going to assume that no one online is going. Okay, so we'll close if we're online. Hey, good evening everyone. Uh,
your name and address, please. I was about to do that. Michael Hulahan. Yes, you do. To Burnwood Road. I'm the uh president of the Hannesport Fire Company. Uh, the Hannesport Volunteer Fire Company was founded in 1922.
Through the years, the membership has risen and fallen. When I joined in 2020, membership was low. Now, 5 years later, we are rising on a rising track. During that time, the town has grown.
More businesses, more homes, more vehicles, more people. The fire company must also grow. In the last six months, the town and the fire company have moved closer together.
Communication has grown and continues to grow. A fire company representative will be attending all uh town meetings going forward. And you know, former and current board members have joined the fire company.
We have developed a recruitment action plan that we're calling RAP that is supported by our website which is currently under construction um by posting on social media church l newsletters
uh working with schools and with formation of a specific committee within the fire company. This recruitment committee will keep track of promotional efforts, writing pieces to be posted electronically,
uh, reviewing new members applications, and communicating with the board and the company. We seek from the town a new apparatus. An apparatus that mirrors the growth I mentioned earlier, a firetruck known as
a quint, which is a quintuple combination pumper. A quint does five things well. Pump, it's a water tank, a fire hose, aerial device, and ground ladders.
This truck can carry ex uh this truck can extend to rescue people on second and third floors. This truck will put water on a property via a LDH tip
to the extension ladder. It will carry every type of tool and equipment necessary for any type of call. And this truck carries 500 gallons of water capable of instantly putting water
upon arriving at a scene. In short, a Quint saves lives because it is nimble, versatile, and useful in any situation. As the town grows, so must the fire company. Thanks. Thank you.
Any other comments from the audience? Yes. Good to see you. Good to see you. Good to be out of the hospital. Um Joe Tory for Eastn Way in Hannesport. Um and
I am by education a chemical engineer. Engineering teaches you or taught me and and I think all engineers how to look at problems, look at opportunities from every angle. What what happens if you do? What
happens if you don't? What happens if you can? What happens if you can't? Should you? Would you? Maybe you should. And look at it from all areas just unemotionally and just the facts. And then you gather all the facts that you possibly can and you evaluate them.
usually by talking to experts in the field. As part of that, one of my first jobs was working in refineries and chemical plants where I went to the Reno Fire School and became certified there. And knowing that refinery fires are different than trash can fires. Some of
them are invisible. Some of them have poisonous gases. You have to have special strategies. You have to have special equipment to deal with these fires. Um, I lost a couple friends in explosions at at these things. So, it's very emotional
for me, including the fact that my house burned down when I was in high school. Um so you know having said said that just knowing that you know being an engineer um I'm usually full of myself
and think I could be one of the smartest people in the room but when it comes to making decisions about critical things I look to the experts to the people who are far more educated than me about this and who know what's what's you know
required to fight fires and to handle the respons responsibilities of the safety of the residents in a town. um you know so so having said that I did a lot of research myself when all this comes up because it's it's been front and center for a long time and I don't I
like to listen to everybody but I also like to do research out of today when you do research if you look at what trucks are being built and what trucks are being sold nationwide in the United States if the um the Pierce company out of all aerial and ladder
trucks 85% of their manufacturing ing today is on Quint, the second um manufacturer or the second most um I guess uh purchased vehicles and manufactured vehicles. They make 90
to 95% of theirs. And this is all from firefighting statistics and magazines. It's, you know, I didn't just get it from um Reddit or uh or anything like that. Um so they are much like you said very very versatile very valuable and
people who who know I mean um I'm in manufacturing I I run a company in in um high performance computing and and data centers and um so you know I don't know all of those servers and switches and everything else but the people who manufacture these things know what's
next. Nvidia knows what to to bring out and to what to sell and what to build and where it is. And just the fact that these people were building Quint sort of at least would, you know, make me ask the question why or why not and and all the questions I talked about in the beginning. So I know that you guys care
about this town. Um, everybody up there on the township committee, the solicitor and our administrator. Um, but I guess I would suggest or recommend that, you know, you take the word of the professionals about what they think is the best thing for this town. um they know more than I do,
probably more than you guys do in terms of what the strategy should be in um outfitting Hannesport to be as safe for our residents and and uh our town to be. That's it. Thank you, Joe.
Yes, you were faster. Barbara Allen, Ten Spruce Lean. Um just wanted to hit on a couple things because even from the previous meeting if I'm allowed to refer to the open meeting we had regarding the fire company. Um
there's a lot of question about the suppression systems being put into these new warehouses and the new buildings that are going up um like the one on Creek Road and the other that are proposed. Um just want to make a point that you know suppression is just that
it's not a fire extinguishing it's suppression and that also will not rescue anybody from a second or third floor building or from the roof of a building. Um I'm going to try and keep my thoughts
because I'm going to forget. Sorry. But um you know also going to the other towns and speaking with other towns if you haven't done so already. And as George Myers and Sean both said at the other meeting, you know, our surrounding towns that touch us, Mount Laurel is the
only other town with any type of ladder or Quint or anything to help us out. And again, they're running over 4,000 calls a year. How long are you going to wait for them? Lumberton, Mount Holly, West Hampton, nobody has anything of what
this fire company is asking for. And you really need to keep that in mind because how liable do you want to be if something should happen and Mount Laurel's busy and we can't help our own town out. So just kind of wanted to reiterate some points.
Thank you. Yes. How are we all today? So I'll re reiterate a few things but some things your name. Oh yeah. Okay, we know who you are, but you need to say it. Bruce Levenson sent to Fox Cordesport.
So, these are some some things to consider. Um, the quint that's currently being looked at is a $1.3 million quint. Um, we could have it in about 11 months. Um, and of course, I think that bonding
could be done such that it would make it very worthwhile and not very expensive to have this truck. If you don't want this truck and you still want to quint and you don't buy this one soon, we're going to lose the opportunity very shortly as other people
are all wanting quints because they serve a multitude of purposes. But not only that, you don't need that many people to operate a quint. And as we know, volunteerism is going down, down, down. And it's not just in our town, but it's also in surrounding towns. And as
these surrounding towns lose their memberships, there are going to be quints and they're going to have less of an opportunity to provide mutual services to our town, leaving our town in an emergency in a very bad situation. I think it's a moral moral obligation to provide the critical services that are
necessary for our town to provide fire service when fire service is needed. But even when fire service is really needed in a big emergency, you know, you provide insurance for yourself in time in times of emergencies, but you hope
you never need it. But to have it is insurance that when you need it, it will be there. So that's one issue. Um, mutual services are just that, they're mutual services. If you have nothing to provide as a mutual item,
you're not going to get a mutual service. So, we're going to be left without any service. And and uh and again, we need to provide for our town uh in in in the most critical situation as an insurance policy. So, again, it's
it's it's important to have this this this engine for us now rather than later. Of course, if we wait for the other other engine is going to be, I believe it's 1.6 million. And the and the engine for 1.3 million that we would get right away, if we had to sell it the
next day, we would be able to make that difference back $3,300,000 we'd be able to get back very quickly. So to me, it's like a no-brainer to buy this now. and and we are as a township,
as a fire department, they are actively seeking more than ever the new membership and and I think you heard that from Mike Hulahan. So that's kind of it for me and I just want to thank everybody for listening to uh to me and I appreciate you all. You have a good day. Thank you Bruce.
Thanks. Sure. Rick Murphy, 910 Deacon Road. Um, learned something, Joe. I didn't realize it with with the fire. Um, I did lose my house to a house fire in Hannesport, 1991.
Whole thing was gone. Um, also we lost a child in Hannesport on the same property in 1991 with the emergency squad back then. And uh, so this is uh, very personal to me
as a resident. Um, I was actually in the Navy. I was a fireman in the Navy, also a welder. So I am familiar with firefighting. And uh I just wanted to make it make everybody aware that um as a resident I personally
feel a little embarrassed and this is just me because we lost our emergency squad and we lost our police department. And I don't think I'd really feel good as a Hannesport resident if we lost our fire department. So, I just want to stand here today and
say my future, no matter what capacity it is for Hannesport, I support the Hannesport Township Fire Department 100% and anything they need. So, just wanted to say that. Thank you guys for listening. Thank you.
Thanks, Nick. Anyone else? Seeing none, I'm going to close comments. Okay. Ordinances. It's a new ordinance 2025-4 amending chapter 104 of
the code entitled land use. This is the uh final adoption. So we have a um public comments. Any public comments with regards to this ordinance
online? No. No. Closed comments. I need a motion and a second. Please. So moved. Second. Mr. Montgomery. Yes. Mr. Dick. Yes. Miss Evans.
Yes. Ms. Tory. Yes. Mayor Gilmore. Yes. Ordinance 2025-5 to release, vacate, and extinguish any and all public rights to the remaining portions of Greenwood Avenue. This is final adoption. We're open for public comment.
Any public comments in the room online? Closed comments. I need a motion in a second. Please. Motion. Second. Mrs. Evans. Yes. Mr. Montgomery. Yes. Mr. Dick. Yes. Mrs. Tory. Yes. Mayor Gilmore.
Yes. Ordinance 2025-6 appropriating the sum of $337,5583 in funding from the general capital fund balance for fauvionics document imaging. This is the final adoption. I open for
public comments. None in the room. Any online? Closed comments. I need a motion in a second, please. So moved. Second. Mrs. Tory. Yes. Mr. Dick. Yes.
Mrs. Evans. Yes. Mr. Montgomery. Yes. Mayor Gilmore. Yes. Ordinance 2025-7 amending the storm water control ordinance. This is the first reading. Public hearing and final adoption will be September the 9th. I need a motion
and a second. Motion. Second, Mrs. Evans, yes. Mr. Montgomery, yes. Mr. Dick, yes. Mrs. Tory, yes. Mayor Gilmore, yes. We have consent resolutions A through F
2025-114-8 through 2025-119-8. I need a motion in a second. Could I pull out um 1168? We need a motion to do that. I make May I make a motion that just
make my comments on 1168. Some moved. Second. Ms. Tory. Yes. Mr. Dick. Yes. Mrs. Evans? Yes. Mr. Montgomery? Yes. Mayor Gilmore? Yes. Okay. So, can I have a motion in a second on the remaining five?
Motion. Second. Mr. Dick. Yes. Mr. Montgomery? Yes. Miss Evans? Yes. Mrs. Tory? Yes. Mayor Gilmore? Yes. So the um you pulled 2025-6
116-8. Yes. You wanted to make a comment. Yes. So this is certifying um the amount necessary to be appropriated um for Hannesport for the tax levy for Rancokus
Valley Regional High School. Um I have four children that this is their hometown. um live lived here all their lives and through the Hannesport school and RV. All four are very active um in both schools. I've been very active in
both schools before I even came here. So, the reason I say that is because I want to express my fondness and and candidly my love for both of those schools. The increase in the tax that is put on every single
one of us here in Hansport is outrageous. Outrageous. You all got your taxes. If you looked at it, you saw that the municipal tax went down.
The county tax went up still pretty high. means port school tax went up almost 7%. Outrageous. Supposed to be capped at two. The state cut fundings to various
municipalities and schools. Unfortunately, Hannesport was one of them. So therefore, they allowed the various schools to increase regardless of the cap.
7% is crazy. But we didn't even notice that, did we? Because we looked at what happened with RV. And again, I say it with all the love of my heart, but a 30 over a 30% increase
to each one of us is incredulous. I If I had a thesaurus with me, I would try to find a stronger word than that. I couldn't let this go. So, I asked our illustrious administrator, "So, what happens if Hannesport just doesn't pay?
What if we just don't pay?" Now, I know we can't. I know we have to because we're collecting it from everybody. I know we have to pay, but what happens if we don't, just to prove a point, how angry you are with a 30% increase. So the penalties would be
state intervention, mandamus actions, I don't even know what that word means. Financial penalties, interest occurs on late penalties to the school districts. The state can withhold other aid to the municipalities. Credit ratings could be
affected. Removal and criminal liability. Municipal officials can face removal from office. Willfully willful refusal to pay legally mandated school taxes could constitute official misconduct.
Practical blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah. Right. So, we have to pay it. Of course, we do. I just wanted to know what would happen if we didn't, how long it would take for them to come. I've certainly can't ask my counterparts to vote no for this, but I want to. I'm
not going to. I have to vote yes. I guess I don't have to because they all rules, so it'll get passed. It is crazy. I know people on the school boards. They're my friends. I I I'm sure there's some logical explanation. I just trying
to find out what the logic is. I could go on and on, but I'll spare all of you what it is. I just needed to bring it to everyone's attention. We need to we need to talk to the school board, write letters, and of course Hanningsport's part of it, but RV it's just crazy. We
have our population going to RV is less than the other towns. Our contribution is higher and it's based on a formula that's not just based on the number of students we have there. I want good schools. I love RV. I love Handsport. I
want to support them. 30%. Thank you. Okay. So, that being said, I put out resolution 2025-116-8
for a motion in a second, please. So move. I'll second. Mr. Montgomery. Begrudgingly, yes. Mr. Dick, yes. Miss Evans, yes. M. Tory, yes. Mayor Gilmore, yes. and they did not I did not tell
them to let me make that motion. They just knew that I probably had to. So, thank you all very much. Seems fair. Okay. Resolution 2025-120-8 supporting the fire department. I need a motion and a second. At this time, I'd like to make a um
motion to amend the resolution, please. Oh, okay. Second. Okay. So, at this time, I would like this without John. Well, that's why Alexis is here. He can make a motion in a second. Motion. So, there's no there was no
motion um when the mayor brought it up. So, there can be a motion. Okay. I'm just concerned with John. Okay. I guess Alexis. Okay. Okay. So, um it was second so we can I can present the amendment. Correct. Okay. So, at this time, I would like to
amend the resolution to include that after all administrative legal and financial matters are satisfied that we hereby approve the purchase of a quint truck
or a suitable vehicle recommended and requested by the fire company. How does that differ legally from the resolution that we have on the table? So, I can say that um we have John and I
have looked at it and it's unfortunately not as simple as just being able to buy a truck on national cooperative, right? There are certain things that have to be done um such as the term is there has to be a cost savings and it has to go through an analysis and it'll have to be
documented that there's a whole process according to a local finance notice um that has to be done in order to purchase something on a national cooperative. So, with all of that being said, um to
include language like that might not be ideal when it comes to the requirements um that has to be um that have to have to be satisfied in order to complete such a a purchase.
Can we approve the resolution as Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So, do you want me to re repeat that for them? Okay. Can you hear me now? Okay. Thank you. Um, so there's a process that has to be satisfied um
through local finance board notice. It's back in 2012. So, there's all these things that have to be done. One of which that's you know probably most relevant to the consideration tonight and in the future is there has to be a cost-saving in our system and it all has
to be documented and you know very clear that this purchase on from the national cooperative is a cost savings to the municipality. Now it doesn't there's no black and white formula. There's a lot of things that can go into it, but it does have to be done and it has to be positive
showing that there is a cost savings for the municipality to purchase on the national cooperative. So I said and I proposed that once all these matters are satisfied, I would like to see this committee move forward to approve a truck, either the
Quint or a suitable vehicle recommended and requested by the fire company. So the one question that similar to what um Committee Evans says is, is that already satisfied by what's on the agenda? No, it didn't. And that's up for the and that's up for the committee to determine, not for
myself. Um, but that's why there's a motion and that's why you all are there to make that motion if you want to amend it. Um, then I'll leave that up to you. But that's the law that there does have to be an analysis done. You can't just go and purchase it tomorrow. So I the ultimately it's up to the
committee on whether they want to amend it based on what um committeeman deputy mayor sorry um to has proposed. It's up to them um if they would like to read something differently than what the committee already has before them. But there is a process that has to
involve. We can't just go ahead and purchase it. What I'm trying to find out, Alexis, please, is are we committing ourselves to something different if we pass Karen's version, committee mentor, sorry, deputy mentor, than the one that we have in front of
us? It's hard to say, right? to sit here and give you something off the top of our heads without looking at both and going with it. Um, it's it's hard to say. Well, I would like to just make the point here that I'm trying to
um recommend that we follow the lead of the fire company. And if they're telling us this is the kind of truck that they need and want, then I think that we need to say yes. that after all of this is satisfied
that we approve a truck recommended by the fire company and I would like to have that clear and on the um this resolution and I think that's ultimately up for the committee to determine if they wanted to read that
way because we already had agreed previously four years ago to put aside money for a firet truck that they were recommending and we have already put aside $400,000 and
so we already have been committed to the fire company. We already have been putting money aside for a truck fire truck. Now apparently there's a change in the type of truck they want, but we have to do our due diligence and and
we're following our solicitor's advisement. Well, I'm just saying everything has to be satisfied. That's fine. That's fine. That's what we're doing. Well, I would like to have a more of a commitment that um from the committee here that we are going to support this fire company and approve a truck for
them and um be it the one that they recommend from us, the fire company. And I think that no matter what was put aside, we haven't had a resolution about this. So, this is what's different now is that we are voting on a resolution that we are supporting this fire company that after
I'll vote 100% to support the fire company. I I'll vote right now for that. That's That's really easy. I think what the question is is that do we want to vote on the resolution that's at hand or do we want to vote on the on the amended resolution
that was there? I I don't know if that's what the legal ramifications are, but I I will clearly vote to support the fire company company itself. If that's if we're going to say who wants to vote for the to support the fire company, I I'll be the first to raise my hand. But that's not
the vote. The vote is whether we are voting on it. But that's what you said. So I So I want to be real clear that I certainly want to support I think there is. So as um Deputy Mayor Tory has a motion on the floor, there is a second. So if the committee wants to
vote on whether they want to amend the resolution that's on here based on her amendments, that's what's on the floor. So we call for a vote and whenever you're ready for, you know, whenever discussion is concluded. Yes, that's the motion. Vote on the first resolution first.
Well, no, because there unfortunately there is a motion. So, unless we table that motion then no. So, right now it will be a motion because there is one on the floor. So, deputy mayor made a motion. Uh, Command Dick seconded. So, it is ready for a vote and let's
and if if Evans wants to comment before there's any vote. Yeah, I mean I just wanted to say one thing which is that as far as I can see it, both the resolutions the the version that we have in our folders and the amended version both are resolutions to support the fire
company 100%. Right. Both are resolutions to support the fire company 100% and both include the planned purchase of apparatus. I'm sorry. Yeah, but the question is who decides? I mean, I I want the fire department to be able to choose the
truck that they feel they need for the safety of this town. And I want that and I I don't think that's what I mean. We we were elected to represent them to represent everyone. Yes. Yeah. And the fire company. I'm just saying both resolutions support the fire company. Please do not be under
any illusion about that. Both of these resolutions represent 100% support of the fire company. people that received a copy of this resolution were committee members. Well, yeah. Did you want to ask a question about the
other the table? I All right. Well, no. There. So, right now there's no public comment on this. It's just discussion for the township committee at this point. It's a resolution. Can we read Should we read the resolution that's at hand or do we need to respond to this?
If you'd like, that's fine. You want to read it on to the record so it's at least clear and then deputy mayor can maybe read what her proposal was to the amendment so it's clear. Thank you. So do you want me to read it? I can pull it up real quick.
Just make it easy. It says no the original the one that you sent. Resolution 2025-120-8 is a resolution in support of pursuing funding and exploring the opportunities for purchase of fire apparatus. Whereas
Hannesport Fire Company has put forward a request for new apparatus and advised the Hannesport Township of existing opportunities to purchase a Quint truck. And whereas Hannesport Township has reserved $400,000 towards a replacement vehicle. And
whereas an aerial truck will cost in the region of 1.3 million or more now and therefore be it resolved that the governing body of Hannesport Township will continue planning for additional funding along with the fundraising
efforts of the Hannesport Volunteer Fire Company and other organizations. And be it further resolved that Hannesport Township will explore existing opportunities while reserving the right to purchase a vehicle that best fulfills the township's needs and
budget. And this is certified by Paula Costco. That's what it reads. Okay. So my amendment is I would like to amend the resolution to include that after all administrative, legal, and financial
matters are satisfied, we hereby approve the purchase of a Clint truck or as suitable vehicle recommended and requested by the fire company. So I can say after hearing it again,
deputy mayor, after we Part: 2
to say to us. We had the meeting with the fire department here. The way it was handled when Ted Costa got up there and proposed a building and had a guy standing here, Leela, out of order. That's what should have been said. He continued, the guy walked
around here handing out paperwork and he was going to give them $400,000 to the fire department. Is that legal? It's not legal. Even John said it wasn't illegal to do what he did. Nobody stopped him. Nobody. It was public comment. You can
talk about cows out. >> You can you can talk about whatever you want to talk about. I can give you $4,000 in cash. >> You can talk about it mean we have to do anything with it. >> I think some people got to grow some things here. We need this fire department.
>> They know what we need. We need the truck. Okay. Where do you get the money? I don't know. But when people start dying because we can't get to them, you're going to need a lot of insurance money. That's all I can say. Anyone else in the room? Yes, ma'am.
>> Hi, my name is Cory Shears. I reside at 1706 Cottage Street. again. Can you just tell me how many more years these people are going to have to go and beg for a truck? It's now four years.
You don't think that we deserve that? We pay our money. We pay our taxes. We have no vital services that you offer us. You should be ashamed of yourself. The taxes keep going up and our services go down. How many more years? There was
a brush fire last year. My daughter almost lost her house. You don't think we need this? You should be ashamed. Thank you. Anyone else in the room? Yes. Bruce Levenson to Fox Court. I think this meeting tonight is completely
illegitimate. And the reason why I do, we have a representative here from Park and Mccay who we can't rely upon. You're not going to take her word. She's hired by the agency or by the by the law by the I have to compose myself. She's hired by
Parker Mccay to represent the law and the law as it needs to be written. But we're not going to rely on her anything she said tonight. Can we rely on anything she said tonight? The answer is no. Because you don't rely on it right now. You're not relying on her word or what she has to say. You're dismissing
her because John's not here. I mean, this is not right. I think tonight's meeting is an illegitimate meeting if we can't rely on him for information. And that's all I got to say. This meeting shouldn't be held. >> Thank you.
Anyone else in the room? >> Mayor Gilmore, we do have people online. >> That was it. Anyone online? then I'll close public comment comments from the administrator. >> Um I just wanted to go back I remember
one of the committee members talking about um one of the ordinances this evening and just reminding everyone that this was a an audit item. Uh the auditors had requested that we handle this uh procurement through and transfer it out of a grant into a capital
project. that that uh Phobionics digital imaging was funds received from the COVID >> grant funding that we we got several years ago. Um I do have to report uh that the municipal park development program grant uh that you all approved
and that we applied for with the county uh for renovating the baseball and softball fields. It is my understanding that uh notificate we we should know sometime this week if we were to receive award which I'm sure we are but the amount uh we did request the full $250,000.
Uh we submitted a 2026 DOT trust fund grant application to resurface Patriot Way. >> Um we are also looking at the second road that's in that community to potentially uh recommend based on that assessment um including that in this
project but as a capital project. So that entire community will be um the roadways will be resurfaced. >> That's Franklin Estates. >> I'm sorry. >> Franklin Estates. >> Franklin Estates. Yes, ma'am. Um we also have discussed um and we have been
working with the uh the state police as well as our public works crew and getting the roadway um recorder out there on two different locations on Eastn Way to see what's going on. that all of that has been forwarded over to the engineer and they are going to be coming up with a plan to improve Eastn
Way. Clearly, we know from the residents that that is a concern um and is a hazardous roadway. So, hopefully uh we can put that together and present it to you and we're looking towards a uh 20 FY27 DOT project with that program.
um recently learned that DOT, I'm sorry, uh DCA through D is going to be opening up a new uh volunteer fire capacity grant program. Apparently, that was closed off for quite some time. They are reopening it. I did reach out to the
person at D to see if uh Hansport Volunteer Fire Company is eligible for that grant and she did respond that Hannesport is in fact eligible. Um so they have added us to the list as a recipient of notification when that they open that up around November and that
would um open up for grant projects for our community of 10,000 or less uh for funding between 5,000 and 20,000 with the 50% match reimbursement which we already satisfy through the $100,000 allocation provided to the fire company.
Um, and that would be for uh radios, turnout gear, PPE, um, with some limitations on items over 5,000 and some exclusions on capital projects. So, I will uh work with the chief um on that project uh when it opens up and barring you guys approve uh
my application for that. Um, I just want to remind everybody that the annual levy chart uh that my office puts together on our tax levies um percentages and it compares all of the taxing entities is up on the website if
you want to see that. Um you can download it. It's also on our bulletin board. And uh that's all I have. >> Thank you, Alexis. >> Nothing further. >> Thank you. Okay, Miss Seven. Right. All right. Well, first of all,
congratulations to Tish Kelly on her many years of service to Hannesport. Um, I know she's not here, but I just wanted to say it again. On July the 14th, I attended a free informal class on basic CPR, AED training and first aid given by
Russ BS, the captain of the Lumberton EMS, which was eyeopening. CPR is very hard, folks, if you've never done it. I also attended the Burlington County Farm Fair on July the 22nd. It was really well done and very well attended as usual. I submitted our application for
the sustainable Jersey silver certification on July 31st. So fingers crossed for that. And thank you very much for the expedited storm water ordinance which would be crucial. That's 20 points right there if we can get that. Finally, I personally am heading
to the UK on Thursday for a week to see my old dad. So I won't be holding office hours next week. Um, but thank you all for coming tonight and I uh I want you to know that we all do really support the fire company. Enjoy the rest of your summer. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Mr. Dick. >> Um, all right, a couple things. First, uh, seniors, seniors meet second and fourth Thursday of the month at the street center noon. Um, if you want to join them right down the street, uh,
Hannesport 0836 on Facebook. Um, I think most of you I've seen you pop up on it. The goal of that is for the entirety of Hannesport, not me, not the committee, not anyone, to post Hannesport relevant things. And you're starting I'm starting to see some traction on there. Um,
everything I see, whether it's a or we see or you see restaurant, a business, um, Hannesport Township related thing, the levy, maybe think of it. Um, I will post that on there. If it could be the Republican club meeting, the Democrat club meeting, it could be anything
that's Hannesport related. If it gets where there's comments going crazy, I will just delete the post. Not because I'm mad, because that is not the goal. There are other Facebook forums for that. So, this is an arm for if you don't remember what day the fall festival is, you can find it on there.
So, please use it. Help me grow. Help us build it, but don't abuse it because, and it's nothing against anyone who wants to go on there, but that's what it's for. Go to the other pages. We all know what they are to have your fund. This is for information purposes only and to help coalate more than maybe some
other ones do. So, take a look at it if it's Hannesport 0836. Um, Hannesport helps, which you're going to start seeing some stuff as we hit the fall, is a volunteer project. We're up to 32 volunteers that are 13 to 17. Um we have I think four larger scale group projects
on the docket. We have to formalize them and make sure that we have um we have the right stuff. But we have four group projects, but also we will be doing smaller scale projects. So go again, it's on 0836. Go on our website, the Hannesport Township website. Um there's uh QR codes. We're going to start
posting it as we hit the fall. If you have little projects, and I'm not looking for someone who just wants free mulch, but if you have little projects and you really really need a little bit of help, submit it. I'll talk to it comes to me directly, but it's a committee run event. We will talk about it. We'll see if it's something that we
think we can do, how we could do it, and how quickly we can get out there. And we're trying to help the community, and we're trying to help our teens learn the value of volunteerism and uh things of that nature. Uh we're also going to try to get them involved over with the fire company from uh uh from last week's meeting. So again, I'm open to ideas.
Obviously, we need supervisors, so we can't do everything, but try to keep that in mind that we're trying to to grow that not just for our teens, but for the community. Um, and then, uh, the fire company, uh, obviously being the liazison, putting aside some of the conversation we just
had, there is a 50/50 raffle. Again, it's on Facebook. Um, there's a couple women's ladies auxiliary, I think they run it that are here today. I'm sure they could sell you tickets. Were they $10 each? >> $10. >> Uh, $10 each. Also, as we discussed at the fire company meeting, and there's going to be some more stuff blasted out.
I have applications with me. I keep this folder in my car just because that's how I do it. So, if you see me and you want an application, I will have an application with me. I'm handing them out. I'm going to leave them here. We will have applications to help them out. And again, based on what we discussed week and a half ago, whatever it was,
it's not just fighting fires that they need help with. So again, as their liaison um putting aside other conversations, keep in mind that we need to help them grow in multiple ways. So please look to other ways to help. Um and everything else I will leave uh I
will leave aside now and I apologize to Alexis that you became uh our foil. >> Thank you, Mr. Montgomery. want to congratulate Tish Kelly again um on her service to
Hannesport and um I've served on the environmental commission with her and she's just a plethora of knowledge and and joy um so it's great um appreciate the grant funding that's helped us um supplement um in place of taxes on
number of things um I've already talked about the increase in the taxes due to RV and Hansport so the taxes have gone up, but our municipal taxes have not gone up. So, to be clear, our municipal taxes have not gone up. They've been
flat, and we have been debt-free for three years. So, this this committee and this administration has managed the budget and what we do here in town
very well. I I I'd like to know any other towns out there that have no debt and that have a flat tax for the past I I don't want to misspe how many years.
Um so just want to be really clear about that. Um, I absolutely support the fire department, um, 100% like I said before and I voted
for this resolution which says such. I This has nothing against the Parker K representative who's here right now. This is something that was presented without having any review at
all from it. And I'm not going to vote on that until I know it's reviewed. So I am I voted for this resolution as did everyone else. It was almost unanimous. We've put together a LOAP program for our firefighters. We have put aside
hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for a firet truck. So to say that we don't care about the fire department is false and it's fake news and it's
beep beep beep beep beep beep beep. We have we have worked on we're working on a budget crew program right now to provide stipens for the fire for the for our firefighters and we've also applied for grants.
The full intention is to get a fire truck and that's been evidence. There's proof of that that this committee wants to do that and has done that. that extra line item that I love my partner Karen Dy absolutely and Andy and all of us
here. I'm not going to vote on that until it's been through. Everything sounded completely logical to me. And basically when all this goes through, that's what we'll get. But to commit on something without having it reviewed just by
hearsay, just written spoken out loud is I'm not doing that. So to so to accuse me of not supporting this fire department, then I think everybody ought to go to the fire department and find out what the Montgomery family has given
and all the other things. I certainly appreciate the work that Karen and Andy have done as the as the liaison and I'm and I'm happy that we have our own fire department. We have fire trucks. There is there is mutual aid from other towns that are much
larger from us. That is the law. The police we had 24 fire departments that came to that fire that happened at that rusty along the way. Thank God. And they will continue to do that. It's a brotherhood. Firefighters are a brotherhood. They
support each other. It's the law. Not only do they want to, but it's the law. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, >> Karen. Sure. >> Uh, yes. I'll start first with the wreck
department because that's much easier. As always, Don and Sue and the recreation committee have been very busy. We had a bingo cruise. Our crews went to Philadelphia and it was very successful and everyone had a great
time, especially our winners. Our senior core group part of the mayor's wellness campaign will presenting be presenting TD Bank fraud risk education financial wellness seminar on September 17th from 12 to 1:30. More information
will be coming out on that. Our tennis classes have been very successful and they will be concluding on Monday, August 11th. The veteran tax task force has been meeting and we are hosting a lunchon tomorrow at 11:00 in the Kenneth
Street Center for all of our Hannesport veterans and our near neighbors. We are happy to say that Lean Tiger, our state senator, will be there as well tomorrow. On Sunday evening, our summer in the park series ends with a concert by the
Loose Bandits Band at 7:00. They will also be at the fall festival. Refreshments will be on sale at the concession stand as well as various items. Now, the Christian Faith Assembly Church will be holding their free market on
Saturday, August 23rd. They are currently collecting donations of new or gently used clothing, food, school supplies, and anything that you might think that um people that might need, anything they
might need. So um and it's all free to the people. They come and they can collect their food, their school items, their clothing, whatever they need. So we will be going over there Thursday at 5:30, Donna and I, to drop off donations. And if you would like us to take any of your donations, please
contact Donna or myself and we'll be happy to take them with you with us. So, we are working on the fall festival being held on September 20th from 12 to 4. We have many fun activities planned, including our scarecrow contest, live
bands, food trucks, face painting, sand art, pumpkin patch, and painting with the uh patrolman with the troopers. Um, so we're going to have a corn pit, I believe. Is that what it's called? Corn
pit. And um, a pumpkin weighing contest, just a pet parade. So, we're going to have lots and lots of fun things. So, we are working hard on that. And I would also mention that the ladies auxiliary are con conducting their major 50/50 fundraiser. So, you can see any of us,
we all have tickets. So, any of us would, if you'd like to buy tickets, we'd be happy to sell them to you. So, now on the fire department. I have to say that we have been working on this for months and months and months. I have been looking at all sides
of this issue and I am confident confident that the fire department knows what they're asking for and I believe that they have the safety of this town in mind. I believe this is a great deal to try to get this truck now. Sure, we
could get another truck 6 months from now, seven months, and pay another $500,000, but the difference is going to be that we're going to have to wait three more years till they order this new truck. This truck is available now. It's a 26. We could have it in 27. So,
up until this weekend, I thought I had the support to move forward and I was going to present a resolution tonight that we move forward and purchase the squint. However, this mostly just this afternoon came to
light that that was not the writing on the wall was that that was not going to happen tonight. This was not going to happen tonight. That's not saying it was never going to happen, but it's not going to happen tonight. And as far as this resolution goes, this resolution came over at 4:00. This was the proposed
resolution. None of us had a chance to really review it, look at it, consider it deeply, but then we were supposed to come here and vote on it. My concern is that I don't think the township or us should decide what kind of fire trucks they need. They're telling us what they need and what they want.
I respect them. I respect all of them. So, you know, I've been told that I'm a newbie and I don't really know how things work in a municipal government. But the one thing I do know, and you don't need experience to have it. You don't need a year experience, 5 years, or 20 years.
When you get elected, you represent the citizens, the residents of this town. And your job is to discover and learn what's important to them and what they want. And I have worked really hard and I have heard from
many, many, many of you residents since our last meeting. And I know you want us to move forward with this Quinn truck as soon as possible. And I have every respect for our fire department. And I know that you want us to move as quickly
as possible for this Quinn truck. So I am here to say I am sorry cuz I feel I let you down. But the this is just the battle. I will be fighting for you to have this truck ASAP. And that's what I have to say.
Thank you. So, yes, first of all, Janice left, but I wanted to thank her for her presentation and um putting together the uh with along with the rest of the
environmental commission, the Arbor uh walk, and once the signage gets up, I think more people will take advantage of it. Tish. Tish is a a gift that we were fortunate to have
and um I just love her to death and hope she stays as active as she's been, you know, as she's able to going forward. We all want a fire truck. We all know we need a fire truck. that the trucks we have were
coming to the end of their life. The fire um company came to us several years ago and spoke with us, had a plan on what they wanted to do and get a fire rescue truck and we immediately began
funding. So there's there's no thought that you don't want it or I don't want it or she does want it more or he does want it more or she doesn't
want it at all or we all we all want what's best for the community. However, not everybody that's come forward has been as passionate,
I guess is the good word, about a quint. Um, other firefighters have come forward to us with information. It makes you think and and try to weigh things the best you can. We may indeed end up with
a quint. Uh, I'm not saying we won't, but we need to do our due diligence and we represent everybody and it and the money comes from everybody.
It is the township's money. So, I know going forward we will attack the situation. We're going to be looking at um every possible way to
compare the uh I know there was some confusion with some what's the word I want quotes that were given to us with regards to um different fire trucks wasn't comparing apples to apples there are different types of uh
equipment We as a township, we have to go by the rules. The government forces us to take things. It's it's not like it's my
decision. It's not my company. I can't go out and write a check and and make a phone call and and buy something anytime I want to. I have to go to Paula and we have to discuss it. We have to vote on it. We have to find the money for it. It
takes years sometimes to get things. I'm not saying that the fire truck is going to take years to make a decision on. I'm just saying I've been waiting for the park for eight years to to come to fruition.
Things take time. You have to go step by step. And that's what we're doing. We're doing the best we can for the people that we represent
and for the town that we all love. I I I I'm sorry that um there's a bit of a disagreement. It's good that you see that we don't just rubber stamp everything. I think the meeting that we had with the
um fire company the other day was very good. I think it it was it was it was the first chance that we all had to sit down and talk and discuss because we can't be in a room all five of us
together unless it's at a public meeting. So you it's two people here, two people there and and you don't always hear the same thing or you don't always hear it the same way or not always the same
questions are asked so you don't get the same answer. So I just want to assure everyone that we are going forward that we are actively pursuing the information that
we need and the financing that we need and hopefully it'll be sooner rather than later but I can't give you a date. And that being said, let's pay the bills. >> Uh, Mayor Gilmore, if I may make a
request uh for two adjustments to the bill list. >> Certainly. >> Uh, the first one is purchase order 25-00489 and that is Lexington Insurance Company. uh that was uh noted for an incorrect amount. It's actually should be 20% of
that amount of $496. So it's $99.20. So requesting to reduce that um amount listed on the bill list to $9920. >> So we gained some money there >> there. Yes. >> How about that? >> And then secondly, uh this one is a little bit more of an explanation that I
want to provide um not only for the governing body but for the good of the community. Um, so sometimes when we have a development in town, well, all the time, and they come to the land use board for um review,
approvals, they have to post an escrow. And we're in a situation at times with some of these developers where they're not timely in making their payments. And our finance office does a great job. Um, we all do need to make improvements on procedurally how we're handling this
matter. We need to look at the ordinance which dictates the amount that we're allowed to collect in in escros and the fees that we're we're requiring of these developers which is based on a percentage of that. Um, but we've been sitting on a few bills um from our professionals that quite frankly at the
end of the day they're our contracted professionals. So we are responsible ultimately for their payment. um 95% of the time the payments to these professionals for all the developments and projects you see is paid by that developer and we have to manage that
that escrow and we have to pay the bills as they come in. Um but unfortunately we have a business that um is still not in um compliance. They are not they have not even gotten to resolution compliance. So they came to the board, they requested the govern the land use
board um approvals which was based on initially a violation from the zoning office and I believe code enforcement. They came to the board got their approvals and then at that point their professionals are supposed to work with our professionals to get into resolution compliance which is the resolution that
the board passes. Um this particular business is not in resolution compliance. They have no signed plans. They are continuously in violation. um definitely posing a hazard to the community. Um also not following the law and not following the procedures of the
township. Um so at this point in time, the outstanding bills which our professionals have kindly and graciously been sitting on, they need to be paid because it's really not fair to our professionals. So I am making a request um that these invoices to Alimo uh Parker McKay and Taylor Design Group get
paid out of the general budget um until such time that we can get this developer into compliance. I should say this active business into compliance. Um we've been trying for a couple years. Uh John is in the process of writing a letter. Um our code enforcement office
and our zoning office have been involved in this situation for quite some time. Um, but again, at the end of the day, it's ultimately the taxpayers's responsibility to pay these bills. So, I'm making a request to add to the bill list. Um, at at this point in time, I don't have a purchase order number. I'll
get that tomorrow from finance, but it would be um a payment to Alimo in the amount of $2,68411. Um, one bill to Parker McKay for $522.50. I do want to note that one of the invoices had already been on the bill list for Parker McKay and I believe it
was over $5,000 and then Taylor Design Group for $662. And there are three um distinct different line items for each of those invoices. >> By doing this, does that allow us to put a lean on their property?
>> I am still waiting for that answer. I did were they are still reviewing that because that was immediately my my question >> right because what are our other choices to for him I guess that's
>> enforcement >> you have to do a little bit of >> enforcement but unfortunately we're not he's not even resolution compliant so we don't even have a mechanism in place to enforce >> okay an interesting situation It's a conundrum >> indeed.
>> How do how would we get this back? >> We're working on that. We're gonna That's why >> just keep getting them to >> Honestly, at this we're also equally as concerned about the state of the business, how it's affecting the community safety. Um
yeah, >> it's unfortunate. >> So, we need to amend the bill. >> If we could add those three payments. Um again, Alimo 2,68411, Parker McKay $52,22.50, and Taylor Design Group $662. And that
would be in those individual professionals line items, >> right? And reducing the Lexington and reducing that to 9920. >> Okay. So, we need a motion to amend. >> Motion. >> Second, >> Mr. Dick. >> Yes. >> Miss Evans? >> Yes.
>> Mr. Montgomery? >> Yes. >> Mr. Tory? >> Yes. >> Mayor Gilmore? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, do I have a motion to pay the bills as amended? >> Motion. >> So, second. >> Mr. Dick. >> Yes. >> Mr. Montgomery? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Evans? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Tory? >> Yes. >> Mayor Gilmore?
>> Yes. >> Okay. I do not believe we have an executive session this evening. I need a motion to adjourn. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Mr. Montgomery? >> Yes. >> Mr. Dick? >> Yes. All in favor.