Good evening everybody and welcome to our meeting this evening. This will be the caucus section of our meeting. Today is December 11th, 2025. I'll read the statement. Uh we will have a salute to our flag and a moment of silence. So adequate notice of this meeting has been
given in accordance with the open public meetings act pursuant to public laws 1975. Said notice was advertising Asbury Park Press and a beacon and was posted on the bulletin board showing the time and place of the meeting. 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. very a joyous and appropriate occasion tonight as we honor our blue and our new
blue. So I will read resolution 2025-324 appointing police officers. Resolution of the Township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey authorizing the appointment of Aristotle Matarazzo and Colin S. Space as full-time police officers with the Township of Lacy.
>> Move it. >> Second. >> Mrs. Juliano, >> yes. >> Mr. Kennon, >> yes. >> Mr. McDonald, >> yes. >> Mr. Laray, >> yes. >> Mayor Keruto, >> yes. >> Chief Sullivan, would you like to? >> So, uh, thank you guys for coming today the committee. Thank you as always for, uh, your continued support in our
venture here at the police department. um over the last several years we've had a phenomenal working relationship with uh with you and we'd like to continue that obviously and we thank you for for you know continuing that um the families and to Aristotle and Colin today
congratulations uh these two young men going to join uh as you will hear later today the best employment in the state potentially the world right as we as we uh as you know as we're referred to famously so um very excited for these
young men they are 21 and 23 respectively. So all of us when doing our instructions a little while ago, uh we really feel old, but this does bring back memories to for all of us when we get to sit up here. It's really exciting for us to be able
to introduce these young men. Um, you know, I remember my my day 24 and a half years ago and uh, you know, Scott Terrell, one of our retired lieutenants right here is is laughing because he, you know, he was he was up here and he presented me and whatnot that day, too. So, um, exciting for you guys. We you
have an exciting career ahead of you as far as the families are concerned. Um, it's it's a different environment and a different world that your kids are going to get involved in and uh, and your loved one is going to be involved in. They are going to need your support. They are going to you love there are going to need your understanding as they
embark in a career like this. But on the other hand, it's a very rewarding career and as I and everybody in here can attest to it. It's the best job in the world. Right. Sometimes you get some, you know, some bad name out there or whatever the case is. I refuse to to believe it. This is the absolute best
job in the world. We work in a phenomenal township. I love working at Lacy. The young managers can add to our already great police force. Our officers are here, you know, some of them are here today. We do phenomenal work um you know within the community and whatnot and you guys are you know looking to
looking to be a part of that. We're excited to have you. So without further ado, Aristo is going to be our first to swear in today. So stand up. You get to look awkward up in here in front of everybody. Stand there. So again,
congratulations. I've known Mr. Roder since uh he was a police explorer here in town with the sheriff's department's explorer unit cadet unit. So, Mr. Marazzo was born in Lacy Township. I'm going to read this because I don't want to miss anything. Uh, where he currently resides. He graduated from the Ocean
County Vocational Tech School of Law and Public Safety program. Um, if I'm correct, you were one of the first to be there full-time. Your group >> or was that just before you? >> Just before you. So, at some point, I was after your sophomore year, you left and went to the vocational program
full-time. >> Yes. >> So, that was all right. Um at that point he just you know he knew early on that he wanted to be a police officer specifically detention. So uh he began his law enforcement career in Beach Haven Police Department in 2020 as a class one police officer. Uh he then
attended the Ocean County Police Academy and graduated in 2023 as a class 2 officer for the Beach Haven Police Department. And he served until July of 2024. He was hired by the Ocean County Sheriff's Office in July of 2024 where he's employed up until this morning where he
now transferred over in his free time. He enjoys playing volleyball, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends. And the other reason why I love doing the new hires, their resumes aren't this long in, you know, I don't have to stand up here much longer. So, >> we're ready. >> Amy. >> Amy.
>> Amy, you want to invite your family up? And you can take pictures. Anybody want to stand? >> Stand in the middle and take some pictures if you want. >> Yep. That's good. >> Wait. We got some. Thank you. >> So Bible
here. How about Yeah. >> Yes. >> Here we go. Yeah. We'll just raise your right hand. I >> do solemnly do >> that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties of police officer
>> perform all the duties of police officer >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability >> and that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
>> And that will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. >> And to the government established in the United States. >> And to the government establish the United States. >> And in this state >> and of this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people. >> CONGRATULATIONS. YEAH, I know. It's like
>> Thank you, Chief. >> You're very welcome. Oh, >> congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations.
Congratulations. Welcome aboard. If you sign your oath for me, that would be great. >> That's your oath that you were set. >> So, if uh you really want to feel old, LT badge 136. That's Mr. Maz.
>> You need a date or no sign. >> Now, our next Mr. face. Come on up. He looks really nervous. Really stare hard. So, uh,
just let this sink in here. So, Mr. Space is 21 years old. So, uh, there's I think there's only been a few times where where we've hired a man this young, and I was one of them. Um, you've got an uphill battle, but you will do just fine. You know, we trust you. Uh, you've interviewed very, very well.
We're happy to have you. We're excited to have you here. So, I will introduce Mr. Space. He's a resident of Lacy Township for his entire life. He's the son of Kathleen and Stephen. Where are they? All right. And uh brother to Morgan Space. Is Morgan here too?
>> All right. Morgan's at school. Do you know the L school system graduating from Lacy Patrick High School in 2022? >> Yes. Played baseball for his entire uh four years at Lacy Township High School and earning his Marcy letter. He's received his associates degree in criminal justice from the Ocean County
College and is currently completing his bachelor's degree from Kane University. He began his law enforcement career in 2023, working for the Tom River Police Department as a class one booking officer. Uh Mr. Space chose to pursue a career in law enforcement to serve his community, help people when they need it
most, and be a part of something greater than himself and is looking forward to building strong relationships in the community. In his free time, he'd love to play basketball, fish on the Jersey Shore, cook, and spend time with friends. Congratulations. And Mrs. Shelton's gonna over
>> space. >> I Colin S. face >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties of police officer >> perform all the duties of police officer >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability
>> and that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same >> and that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same >> and to the government established lished
in the United States >> and to the government established in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people. So help me God. >> under the authority of the people. So help me God. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you. As additional information uh Mr. Modazzo
gets to start right away complete police academy. Mr. space is going to be leaving us in >> to County Police Academy where we wish him luck and he's going to do just great. >> Congratulations. >> Congratulations. >> Congratulations and welcome.
>> Congratulations. Congratulations. Please do favor sign. >> We have some comments and then a sign for you. Thank you very much. Awesome comments this evening. Deputy Mayor Kennes. >> Thank you, Mayor. I just want to
congratulate you both. You both worked extremely hard um to get to this point and we're very happy to have you both. You're going to get a lot of support from um not only the township but your fellow officers and uh truly wish you the best of luck. >> McDonald. >> Thank you.
>> I want to re reiterate what Deputy Mayor Kennes said. Uh, welcome welcome to what is obviously the best police force in the county. No questions about that. The state, the rest of that, you guys can argue about that in the locker room. All
right. Um, but you're joining a great police force and just protect us. That's all I ask. Thank you. >> Thank you so much, >> Committee Juliana. >> Thank you, Mayor. Just congratulations to both of you. you're joining an elite squad and we appreciate you uh being
here. So, thank you and uh go blue. >> Commandment Laray. >> Well, we'll welcome you to Lacy's finest police force. And the one thing I do probably disagree with Tim a little bit. There is no debate. You guys are the best in the state of New Jersey. So, I'm
just going to That's just my opinion, I guess. But uh said this before and one of the proudest things that's been coming up constantly is to see the fine products that Lacy Township is producing and they're moving
up coming in our police department getting involved in different things around our town and we're very very proud of you. Thank you and good luck. Um, you got a great great group of gentlemen you and women that you're
going to be working with. And speaking of feeling old, now we're starting to hire police officers younger than our kids. So, it's almost a generation difference. So, it's uh time is flying. Congratulations.
>> All these references that is that age discrimination? We have the lawyer here. >> No, >> no, that's a positive thing. >> It is. I'm very jealous. we're going to age out. >> Um, I just wanted to, you know, on behalf of all of us, a warm welcome. Um, your job is very intricate now. It's not
like it was 40 years ago with just straight law enforcement. You're going to be part counselor, um, part deescalator, part educator, part prevention specialist in our schools, um, and of course the law enforcement component. But you have a remarkable
command, staff, and support structure behind you. So, um, we all have great mentors and when you recognize that, just keep your ears open and, uh, on behalf of all of us and of course I have my family here as well. Thank you for
keeping us safe. Without without the law, there are no guard rails in society and there's anarchy. So, you all are pretty important. So, thank you for what you do and you will have our support. But we've said it publicly.
We say it privately. And um that little girl is as cute as a button. She already has more hair than me and I'm 57 years older than her. So that's another unfair trick played by God on us. But I digress. Thank you all of you.
And um an honorable mention. We're able to support our police and our municipality here because of the support we get from our board of county commissioners. Commissioner Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadi is with us. He's there when we pick up the phone. Uh so, Commissioner, I wanted to thank you for
being here. It means a lot. You're here in our town. You could be in any town. And thank you for your support for our police and our township. Gentlemen, God I hope God is with you and God bless you for sure. Unless everyone wants to be in just
thrilled with uh the rest of our agenda, I will politely excuse you. You can stay. You're welcome to stay. >> I'm pausing the tape. >> Thank you for all being here. >> Tape is resumed.
>> Fantabulous, as my good friend Lucy would say from the county. Fantabulous. Thank you. Item number three this evening, permission to post signs, Fish Hawk's annual flea market. Thank you.
>> The Fish Hawks are hosting their annual flea market um at the Elks on Saturday, March 7th, and they are seeking permission to post signs from February 28th, and they will be cleaned up on March 8th. >> Move it. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I.
>> Item number four, tow truck parking discussion. We received a request from a member that um does tow trucks um and they also are on the police towing list that they would like uh permission from the governing body to park their tow truck at their house during um since
they're a subcontractor with the police department. We have six um outside vendors that assist us with a rotation list of sub of tow trucking uh when we need it for motor vehicle accidents and so on and so forth and impoundments. Unfortunately, our ordinance does not allow it. And how however, there's
reasons why these types of vehicles are not allowed in the properties. They're over 19 feet long. They do create um noise, the diesel. These calls don't happen at 4:00 in the afternoon. They're 2, three in the morning. They've got backup alarms, so on and so forth. And they're parked in these neighborhoods. And I don't know how we differentiate
from those that just tow for Lacy and those that don't tow for Lacy and how you separate it. So, I'm recommending that we don't approve um the ordinance. I did pass this by our attorney and um if he has anything to say he can add to it. >> No, certainly would undergur the
statements made by the township administrator. You can't enforce against one segment of individuals that have tow trucks and not another. And for that reason, I would recommend that you not proceed with the adoption of an ordinance or an amendment to your existing ordinance.
>> I I I agree. I mean, I don't know what road it's on, but they're also wide. I mean, I know it can't be more than 8 foot, but they're wide and that's creates some problems. So, I would I would agree that we don't do this. >> I agree, too. I support that thought because it's uh we've had problems with
parks. >> Yeah, we we get a lot of complaints um um if you know and it's enforced by code enforcement. If it's um on the property, otherwise if it's in the road, it's enforced by the police department. And we do get a lot of complaints that of the disruption of the noise. Again, >> these tow truck operators are going out
at 2:30 in the morning. And um again, not all of them are on our list, but it does cause quite a stir in the neighborhood. >> God forbid we have a snowstorm. >> Yeah. More than >> more than once I've had people text me, people that I know about diesel starting up at 3:00 and 4 in the morning because
they're parking there and not supposed to be. So I tell them to, >> you know, file a complaint with code enforcement. So >> yeah, and actually when I first before I even read the ordinance, I had a little bit of a mixed opinion on this in the beginning just being around that type of
business and once I read our ordinance and knowing the reality of it just recently there was one parked by my house too. Um, but with that said, you had to look further and with doing a
little research, a little uh background and reading the ordinance, it makes a lot a lot of sense cuz in these residential sections, you can't li like I say, you can't limit just to the tow trucks. No, uh the backup beepers, the diesels running, different things
like that. And almost all these uh even though they want them in their yard, most of them that's doing the police towing, they're where they're based out of is in town anyway. So it's not like it's that far of a drive. So >> I understand the convenience. I mean, I grew up with a dad that was able to drop
park his school bus in the backyard. >> So that changed over the years, too. But uh yeah, after doing a little research, I I can't see amending this at all. Yeah, I believe I leave it as Who is Octo who who >> We have six different vendors. >> We have six different vendors.
>> It's an annual application process and they have to meet certain requirements as to the type of equipment, the type of storage yard that they have and it's always investigated and um you know to make sure that they're complying with the ordinance. It's a rotating list. So if I'm called first, you might be called
second and so on and so forth. >> I I just didn't know who who we use. I mean I don't barto code that often. >> Thank goodness. We just need a motion to to deny the request, please. >> Have a motion to deny. Move it. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I.
>> Item number five, abandoned boat ordinance discussion. >> We had a resident that submitted, I believe you received copies of it, a uh a sample abandoned boat ordinance that they would like us to consider um adopting with regards to derelic and abandoned boats that would be in our
lagoons and possibly our waterways. Um, again, I I had supplied you you all with some information related to that and it's really out of our jurisdiction because it's in the waterway. So, it really is a problem for the state of New Jersey and the state police. Um, and
otherwise the abandoned boats on property obviously would be a code enforcement issue if it's not registered. Um, so which uh the property in question that this one neighbor is complaining about is a code is is actively a code enforcement file. Um the boats are all registered. So we don't
have any action to take if somebody has five or six boats on their property. As long as they're registered and they're not in um very bad disrepair, they're allowed to have it there. And in the waterway, you're talking anywhere from 5 to $20,000 to remove the boat. And for
us to take on that liability and that ownership of that is quite costly to us. And we have no recourse to go after somebody. I would think that we're gonna start to see boats all of a sudden dropped off in our area. Yeah. >> To pick up, >> right? How long was that boat abandoned
for that we we've been fighting with the state? >> It's still there. >> It's still, >> but I have good news on that one. So, that's the Laurel Laurel Harbor Channel. >> And I just received notification today through Stockton University who has a grant with Noah that we're on the list to have that boat removed via their
funding. But I have to now go and acquire ownership of the boat, which I did not want to do until I knew we were going to get the funding to remove it. So, it was it's good news that we were part of the uh Noah grant process. >> Did we ever forget who owned that boat?
>> We Well, again, so the boat the the ownership is still in the original owner's name when he sold it to this gentleman named Juan. Juan never transferred the title in his name. and we have a phone number which goes to nothing now. It's not a listed number.
So, I did reach out to the original owner trying to make this easier on ourselves. Could he go and get a a duplicate title for the boat and then just sign it over to the township of Lacy and he's out of Connecticut. He refuses to do it because he doesn't own the boat anymore in his opinion. So,
it's a very lengthy process to get a boat through the abandoned ve uh vehicle method. So, I will start to work on that. >> So, could it be another four or five months? Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. >> And one of the things, you know, between
this ordinance is homeowner put forth that he'd like us to consider. And then also if you read the state regulations, his ordinance has a lot of uh doesn't align with the state regulations which even the process they want you to
go through for any township or municipality to remove a boat is utterly ridiculous if you read it. I mean it's unbelievable. I think sometimes the people writing these things is a landscaper but he's writing on how to do
heart surgery. I mean, it's it's that ridiculous. And the process they want you to go through. Plus, if you read the state, there's no guarantee you're ever going to get any type of reimbursement on this. So, it's totally up to you, >> right?
>> Luckily, this town so far hasn't had a huge problem with this. >> Correct. I know in the future we may have to start looking at what Florida and some of these other states are doing because it is a big big problem around the country because people can't get rid
of these boats. But I truly believe, especially when we can pinpoint ownership to a point, uh, the taxpayers of Lacy should not foot a 5,000 to $20,000 bill
for a piece of equipment that may only be worth 500 to a,000 bucks. It's not our responsibility, but yet we got to maintain things and keep them safe. So, I'm sure it's something we're going to have to do more work towards in the
future and look into, but right now, um, the ordinance that this gentleman sample ordinance he put forth is doesn't even align with what the state says. And the state does say in theirs that we cannot supersede theirs.
>> If you read it, >> cannot supersede their their regulations. Sito USA um some of their associates are working with the ninth legislative district to possibly get some legislation put in place where there would be a search charge on boat registrations that would go into a fund
to help offset this because the boat the Laura harbor channel um it doesn't it's not in a navigable channel so it doesn't pose any concerns but what about the the gas and other contaminants that might be in the boat but they said as long as it's not leaking we don't do anything because we have no state funding
>> so that's what they tell us so you want to remove it, you remove it at your own expense. But again, so like I said, um other states, as as Mr. La said, do do have things through their motor vehicles to have search charges put on that everybody, you know, put puts an extra couple of bucks into it to hopefully
fund these removals. There's about right now on the Barnagate Bay shoreline there's approximately eight boats that have been abandoned and left and uh that STO is working on with this grant through Noah >> boats originally years ago came what we
call uh with what we call hins like a car vehicle identification number they have a hull identification number so but that would go back to the person who originally and this boat has changed hands several times >> yeah if it's a larger boat we'd have to lift it with a boat lift. It's absurd.
We would have uh we would would possibly become a dumping ground. Can't do it. >> Could we just have a motion to not move forward with the ordinance? >> Second. >> I >> I do have an add-on
for the caucus meeting. Um, Wendy's has recently remodeled and they're looking to do a grand opening event on Saturday, December 20th, starting at 10:00 a.m. Um, it's likely going to cause some traffic going into the area because they are doing some giveaways. Um, so any approval that we would do tonight would be contingent on the police department's
approval. >> Move it. Second. >> Good. >> Okay. All in favor? >> I want to >> motion to adjurnn. >> Second. I >> Okay. We'll have Township of Lacy
Township meeting December 11th, 2025. Adequate notice of this meeting has been given in accordance to the open public meetings act pursuant to public laws in 1975. Said notice was advertised in the FA press and the beacon and posted in the bulletin board showing the time and place of the meeting. We already pledged
allegiance to our flag and had a moment of silence. We'll jump right into item number one. First reading ordinance 2025-18 amending chapter 79 so as to establish new art a new article entitled assistant business administrator an ordinance of
the township of lacy county of ocean state of New Jersey amending and supplementing chapter 79 of the township code entitled officers and employees so as to create the position of assistant business administrator move it >> second >> Mr. McDonald yes >> Mr. Kenno yes >> Mr. Lay.
>> Yes. >> Mayor Certolo. >> Yes. Item number two, first reading, ordinance 2025-9, amending an ordinance of fixing and determining salaries, wages, and compensation for the position of assistant business administrator. >> Ordinance of the township of Lacy County
of Ocean State of New Jersey amending an ordinance entitled an ordinance of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey affixing and determining the salaries, wages, and compensation of the officers, employees, and members of the governing body of the township. This is to establish the salary range for the position of assistant business administrator.
>> Move it. >> Second. >> Mrs. Juliano. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kennes. Yes. >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. La. >> Yes. >> Mayor Kola. >> Yes. Item number 30. Second reading. Ordinance 2025-17 amending an ordinance of fixing and determining salaries, wages, and
compensations for the dispatchers union. >> Ordinance of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey. Amending an ordinance entitled an ordinance of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey of fixing and determining the salaries, wages, and compensation of the officers, employees, and members of the governing body of the
township. Again, this is for the dispatcher union. This is second reading. Open the floor to public comment. >> Seeing none, make a motion to close the floor. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I on the ordinance. >> Move it. >> Second, >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kennes, >> yes. >> Mrs. Juliana, >> yes. >> Mr. La, >> yes.
>> Mary Ker, >> yes. Item number four, resolution 2025-325 provisionally promoting a dispatcher to the position of senior public safety telecommunication. Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey provisionally promoting Aaron Collins to
the position of senior public safety telecommunicator for the police department pending promotional procedures due to the results of a desk audit. Move >> second. >> Mr. Kennes, >> yes. >> Mr. Lay, >> yes. >> Mr. McDonald, >> yes. >> Mr. Juliano, >> yes. Mayor Ko. >> Yes. Item number five, resolution
2025-326, provisionally promoting a dispatcher of the position of senior public safety telecommunication. >> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State, New Jersey, provisionally promoting Francis Holmes to the position of senior public tele public safety telecommunicator for the
police department pending promotional procedures due to the results of a desk audit. >> Move it. >> Second. >> Mrs. Juliana? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kenn. >> Yes. >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. Laay. Yes. >> Mayor Kerto. >> Yes. Item number six, resolution 2025-327,
reappointing an assistant deputy emergency management coordinator. >> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey, reappointing Sergeant Michael Verway as assistant deputy emergency management coordinator for the township of Lacy. >> Move it. >> Second. >> Mr. Laray. >> Yes. >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kennes.
>> Yes. >> Mrs. Juliano. >> Yes. >> Mayor Curola. >> Yes. Item number seven, resolution 2025-328 reappointing a deputy emergency management coordinator. >> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean, state of New Jersey, reappointing Captain Samuel Delisala as
deputy emergency management coordinator for the township of Lacy. >> Move it. >> Second, >> Mr. Laray. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kenn, >> yes. >> Mr. McDonald, >> yes. >> Mrs. Juliano, >> yes. >> Mayor Kerah, >> yes. Amen. Number eight, resolution 2025-329 authorizing the transfer or that should
be of appropriations. >> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State, New Jersey, authorizing a transfer of appropriations in accordance with the provisions of NJSA484-58. >> Move it. Second, >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kennes, >> yes. >> Mr. Juliano, >> yes. >> Mr. Lay,
>> yes. >> Mayor Kerat, >> yes. Item number nine, resolution 2025-330 authorizing the cancellation of old outstanding checks. >> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey authorizing the cancellation of old outstanding checks from the Lacy
Township current and trust accounts. >> It second. >> Mr. Laray, >> yes. >> Mr. McDonald, >> yes. >> Mr. Kenn, yes. >> Mr. Juliano, >> yes. >> Mayor Cura, >> yes. Item number 10. Resolution 2025-331 authorizing the cancellation of taxes due to a disabled veteran tax exemption.
>> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey authorizing the tax collector to cancel 2025 taxes due on a property granted the 100% disabled veteran exemption and refund the resulting credit balance. >> Move it. >> Second. >> Mr. McDonald, >> yes. >> Mr. Kennes, >> yes. >> Mrs. Juliano, yes.
>> Mr. Lay, >> yes. >> Mayor Kola, >> yes. >> Item number 11, resolution 2025-332. Authorizing the refund of deposit monies. >> Resolution of the township of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey authorizing the refund of deposits held for the use of municipal facilities.
>> Second, >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. Laay. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kennes. >> Yes. >> Mr. Juliano. >> Yes. >> Mayor Kella. >> Yes. Item number 12, resolution 2025-333 authorizing the payment of township bills. Move it. >> Second. >> I just need to read the resolution.
Sorry. Resolution Township of Lacy County of Ocean State New Jersey authorizing the payment of township bills. >> Move it. >> Second. >> Mr. McDonald. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kennis. >> Yes. >> M. Juliano? >> Yes. >> Mr. La? >> Yes. >> Mayor. >> Mr. McDonald. Do you have an extension? >> Oh, yes I do. Thank you. Let me uh
abstain on T 0035 and I will abstain on R5890. Item number 13, monthly reports. Municipal clerk's office for the month of November collected receipts the amount of $2,67.79. Municipal court for the month of September collected receipts in the
amount of $10,862.54. The month of October $14,40.82. For the month of November, recycling department collected receipts um in the amount of $3,794 for road openings, recycling commodity in the amount of $1,33
and truck parking in the amount of $200. Community Development Department for the month of November collected receipts in the amount of $71,912. Motion to accept the reports as read. >> Move it. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Motion to approve caucus meeting minutes
from November 25th, 2025. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. Item number 15. Motion to approve township meeting minutes from November 25th, 2025. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> item number 16, motion to approve executive session meeting minutes from
November 25th, 2025. >> Move it. >> Second. All >> in favor? >> I. >> Item number 17, motion to approve membership in the Forkid River Volunteer Fire Company for Robert Beal. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Item number 18, motion to approve
membership in the Lenoka Harbor Volunteer Fire Company for William Ceini. Second. All >> in favor? I >> not. >> Yes, I have one add-on. Um, resolution 2025-335, resolution of the township of Lacy,
County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, providing for the insertion of a special item of revenue and appropriation in the 2025 municipal budget of the Township of Lacy, pursuant to NJSA4A 4-87. This is for the step federal highway safety grant. >> Move it. >> Second, >> Mr. McDonald.
>> Yes. >> Mr. Kennes, >> yes. >> Mr. Juliano, >> yes. >> Mr. Lay, >> yes. Mayor Kurt. >> Yes. >> Comments from the committee this evening. Deputy Mayor Kenn. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um, since this is our last normal township meeting, we we we're going to have one more this month,
but that's going to be 3 in the afternoon. And since we might have a new mayor next year, I just want to thank I just want to thank Pete for do for uh all the hard work that he did this year as mayor. Um he always represents not only the five of us well but the
township uh well also. Um he did a great job um handling all the um the responsibilities during the uh the forest fire over this past summer and um he just puts a lot he put a lot of time in um into being mayor. Um he uh I can't
say you know I can't say it enough how much time does go into being mayor and Pete did a lion share of the work this year. So, just want to thank Pete for the job that he did as mayor this year. >> Well, that's kind of you, but there was >> those are my comments >> million other people. >> Those are my comments, Peter.
>> Sir, kind >> Committee McDonald. >> Thank you, Mayor. It's this is very simple. I don't care how you celebrate the holiday system, but just enjoy it. Enjoy the family. Merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, happy Quanza, whatever. However you celebrate it, enjoy it.
Thank you. Thank you, sir. Mayor Julian. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um, just want to repeat that we have uh 72 calls went out this month for our volunt volunteer fire department. Very important for us to always take notice to our volunteers in our town and um I'm on a watch system
right now waiting for a granddaughter to be born. So that's my priority right now. >> Thank you, Mayor. >> Conclude your comments. Committ Ray, >> I keep it simple tonight. uh want to
concur with Mr. Kenneth uh on uh Pete's job as mayor this year, but I'm going to wait until our final meeting to really give him congratulations because he has worked hard this year. He's done us proud and there is one more meeting
before the end of the year. Uh the only other thing I want to wish everybody is happy holidays, whatever, however you uh celebrate them. Great New Year's and I appreciate everybody's input and
caring that they've given the town, the taxpayers, and us through this whole year. and can we just keep it up and remember let's listen and respect each other in this next year going forward.
Thank you. >> Sage advice. Thank you. Just want to echo some of those same sentiments. Um it's really been a wonderful year. It was we we were made famous with the fire infamous um but we we put a great foot
forward and um I had absolutely nothing to do with that. That was our our fire, police, EMS. We've saved every structure in our town except one business and uh not one single family home, not one injury and not one death, 15,000 acres
plus earned. So, if that's not is damn near close to perfect, I don't know what is. So, I'm we're all blessed to have them in our town. Um I want to thank the Loka Harbor Fire Department uh tonight. They had a breakfast the other day um
before our our Christmas parade and um it was as full as I've ever seen it. Uh had Santa Claus there. It seemed like every kid in the town parked four blocks away up Warren Street and out near Gilly Park. Uh so it was really special. I
want to thank them, everyone that participated in the parade. Uh like Committeeman Laorray said, everyone that had comments here this year and this evening and um just to thank and hope those two new officers do do really well and thank our police department again.
Merry Christmas, happy new year. God bless. Whatever you decide to celebrate, we wish you do it in good health and good spirit. Open the floor one. One last thing, mayor. Those of you that are thinking about giving
jack uh tickets, lottery tickets away, you may want to think twice about just notice that the Power Ball is up to $1 billion. >> So, you may want may want to hold on to those tickets. >> Is it for tonight? >> Saturday.
>> Saturday. Saturday. Saturday. Saturday. Saturday. So, you may want to hold on to those tickets. >> Thank you for the good advice. Open the floor for public comment this evening. >> It's over to the right or to the left. My right. Your left.
>> I'm trying to move this for you. >> Tim, you've fallen and can't get up. >> I can't get up. >> At least it didn't break. >> Thank you, Regina. >> Thank you very much. Thank you. >> My name didn't break, too. No, it's not plastic, I don't think. Um, Regina
Desenda, Sunset Drive, Sunrise Beach. I do have a variety of questions. Mr. Kenneth just mentioned that the 12:23 meeting will be at 3 p.m. >> Did you change it on the website? Because I think it said six when I checked, but that was last week. >> Don't know if it's been changed on the
website, but it has been advertised. I will change it if it is. Please do because um you know I try to make my calendar up in advance like everyone else and you know if I get here at 6:00 and there's nobody here I'm going to be ticked off. Um and come one come all to the last meeting of the year. Um even if
it is at 3 p.m. you know if you can get here by all means come because I think what we got 10 people here tonight maybe. I hate to be the only one at meetings and when it's at 3:00 I could be the only one. >> We'll probably come too. Well, besides
you guys, I mean, you have to come. I don't. Um, Amy mentioned on resolutions four and five a desk audit. Can someone explain what a desk audit is? I've never heard the term before. >> I guess you want me to explain. So, what
happens with a test desk audit is you have an employee that is in it. We're a civil service municipality. Excuse me. Does this raise? Yeah. civil service municipality and civil services assigns what titles all of our employees have. So as an employee, let's say you're a clerk one we're going to use as an
example. >> You feel that you're doing duties outside of that. That might be a clerk too or an administrative clerk. So you make application to the New Jersey Civil Service Commission to say while this is my recognized title, I feel that I'm doing this. So they have to put down
what their duties are, the percentage of time that they're performing those duties, and then the supervisor also, the immediate supervisor has to put in um uh whether they agree or disagree and the reasons why. And then civil service reviews it and makes a determination if
they um are really working out of title and should get the higher title. >> So this was a process. It didn't just happen overnight. >> Yeah, we've been working on this since July. >> Oh wow. Okay. >> Yeah. It takes a very long time with civil service. >> Okay. I was curious about that. Now >> the states involved you can understand that. >> Yeah. And when you
>> and even sometimes so we uh at actually um there were nine individuals that put in for the desk audit and two of them got approved. The rest of them did not because they are working within their title duties. These two are working a little bit above their title duties. >> Okay. Now my other questions concern
items one and two. I know there'll be second read next meeting, but I still want to know um if we've gone all these years without an assistant business administrator, what created the need, how was the salary determined for this position? I
heard you mention a range and what would the full cost of the position be with benefits, pension, etc. And would the person who's going to get this job be fully certified to replace the business administrator like in your absence or is this a secretarial support type of
position? Can anyone explain that? >> You want to handle this mayor or Yeah. >> What's the deal there? >> Uh yeah, in anticipation at some point our um administrator with as many years as she has in will exit like anyone else may.
>> Oh, so okay. This is about building the base, building the bench. >> That's what I thought. >> And uh that's something that's I came to the conclusion that that's prudent to do after getting counsel from other people in and outside.
>> So it's not a secretarial support, >> a transitional replacement room for a replacement. >> Hope hopefully this person will >> replace Veronica when she >> Right. You have to hold all >> there's certifications involved and >> there's no certifications to be a
business administrator like there is for a clerk or an assessor or a collector. There's no license through the state of New Jersey. >> As long as they're as qualified as you. Amen to that. >> Oh, and the one thing I don't know if most people realize this and I don't even know Veronica wants everybody to
know it. She's actually been able to retire for a while now. She's got these in >> Oh. Oh. Oh. Oh. I'm sorry. She she's22, >> but yes, she she's been ready and eventually that's going to happen. >> I know she wants to travel. We discuss it all the time. >> And uh yes.
>> Okay. >> And the thing is is even when this came up because she does do it a simplary job and she lives and eats this township. I mean it just >> she's 247 without a doubt.
>> Yeah. And so we're trying to um work towards that. >> As far as some of them other questions that you got, it's like first we got to create the position, who, where, when, exactly how everything's going to fall into place. After that, it'll be that
for later discussion. >> So the full cost and salary range wouldn't be available right now. >> The salary range in the ordinance is 60 to 90,000. Oh, that's the original range. because there was a little research done to see where other towns are paying and
what's comparable. But but first before we could even go any further with any type of discussion, we first have to read the position. >> Right. Okay. Thank you very much. I think that's it. >> Any other comments this evening? Welcome.
>> Oh, that's really low. >> Your hair looks great, Carol. Thank you. Christmas parties held. >> Cool. >> All right. Um, so it's one of the last meetings before 2025. I have a few questions for the
committee. One is regarding safe streets. I'm requesting again that we update our 2012 complete streets resolution to the 2019 complete and green streets resolution to reflect our concern for the safety of
our pedestrians, students, bicycling residents of Lacy and begin working on infrastructure that prioritizes pedestrians versus cars in town. This should include v vigilant enforcement of speed limits on all streets in town,
including municipal, county, and route 9. Um, there's a noticeable uptick of pedestrians being hit by cars in addition to drivers that are running red lights two. So, I would love to meet with you about that.
Um, >> the master plan, >> yeah, the master plan boasts of having a walkable downtown. Can anybody tell me where that's located? >> A walkable downtown. >> Your master plan says you have a walkable downtown. Can anybody tell me
where that is? >> Depends on where you define our downtown. I guess >> it's in your master plan. So, I would like an answer to that >> if not tonight. >> We do have sidewalks. >> You can't put it in your master plan unless it's >> So, we don't have a proper downtown. I don't remember what the master plan says. The last time it was reviewed was
probably 2014. It's important that our master plan reflects what our community is >> and the master plan is something that we know we >> right well this is where complete streets >> re revisiting because it's >> yeah but >> allows you to say something like that that you're walkable community it's safe
for pedestrians and I'm part of the safe streets team in town and we've talked about this before >> so but as each anything that comes forward the planning board does have to put full improvements in >> okay >> which means Gary Kenny's way And that's
there near Well, you're smiling, but it's true. >> Okay. >> It's one of the most beautiful parks in in the county or in the state. You talk about >> She's referring to this to sidewalks along all the major routes in town, more or less. >> Not necessarily.
>> Are we going to be embarking on redoing the master plan? It is something that we've set some funds aside for. Um so this that is a project that we're looking on. All of these things will be looked at and addressed and it's a planning board process that also has public.
>> So all the engineering they've been doing on Hayne Street is that is have they be doing >> Yeah, the engineering for the Hayne Street will be for um making a complete connection with the additional sidewalks. We're and we're going to uh apply for a safe routes to school grant to put in the additional sidewalks Hayne
Street um from Western to Ridgemont on that that side of the road. And we're also looking to redo all of the sidewalks on Manchester Avenue. Um so that done. >> Oh, that was my question number four. >> Oh. >> Oh. So you want to go to question number
three first? >> Yeah. Um so I'm going to go back, but this is part of the complete streets 2019. We're six years behind people, the rest of the state of New Jersey regarding this resolution. >> Streets, as I had mentioned, didn't meet
the mayor. It's not a mandate. It's a >> It's not a mandate. It's a request >> that allows you to do other things once that resolution is in place. So, I'm going to just keep going. So, I'm going to >> I think you should do it. >> Um, when will the construction on the rail trail
>> begin? >> Okay. So, we're waiting, as you may know, we've received federal funding for that, the $6 million. We a lot of um it's a lot of red tape with the government. Government shutdown doesn't help us. we have to do an envi even though we have a permit for the south
side um of Lacy Road, it still needs an environmental review by the feds. So, we just um gotten the approval to for the feds to now do the environmental review on the south side and we are in the permit process to get the the new permit for the north side of the um railroad
rightway. So, we're working with the D on that now and I tomorrow yet tomorrow I actually have a conference call with the D to do permit updates and where we're at with uh some deficiencies on that permit. >> Can we project a date? >> I cannot project >> five years, one year.
>> Oh, I'm hope gosh I'm hoping I'm hoping within the next 18 months. But what happens is if we can get we and again both of these projects are with the federal money are looked at as two projects. So the south side we have the permit. So, they're going to start the review on the environmental side and once we get the go, they'll release us
the permission to utilize the funding. So, hopefully that can start first and then we'll work on doing the north side. So, I'm hoping, gosh, I would love to say in 2026 we'll be doing at least the south side and then the county will upgrade the um >> the traffic light there to a four-way actuary, but I I can't make any
promises. It's it's government, you know, >> and and we were holding our breath because last year when a lot of projects got cut and funding got withheld and everything else, we weren't sure if we were going to survive that chopping block and luckily this project is still
>> It's different funding though. >> It is, but the federal government was cutting a lot of that CDS funding. >> When your federal government comes out and says we're stopping all funding, >> I understand. >> You don't know what that means. And yes, there's a lot of different things, but uh we were holding our breath there for
a little while, just praying that this was going to come still come through. So, it's looking good after we go through the 20 hoops. >> Okay. Um I'm skipping four because that was the Hannes sidewalk. And five, and this is something that I've been working
on for two years with the school board and I still don't have an answer. So, I'm going to try and share it with you because it affects you guys now. It fixed the township. The school board officially labeled and it's on the website that Lacy Road and Route 9 are
deemed hazardous. They have no official anybody that says it's hazardous. They don't have a police report. I don't believe I've asked them numerous times who was their I guess official person that would deem it hazardous and they will not answer
that question. So >> website, >> yeah, it's in the walking. It's it was put in their ordinance as of this year. >> They say it they've always said it was hazardous. So the reason why this is important is because that allows
um students that are east of Route 9 and south of Lacy Road to continue to receive courtesy busing. Even though we say that it's not courtesy, those students actually qualify as walkers within a two-m radius of the schools and two and a half. So, we are still busing children because we have two roads in
this town that are deemed hazardous as per the school board. So, my question is, why do you allow any street in this town to be labeled as too dangerous for pedestrians to cross? >> I I mean, I'll take a stab at this and say I if I were a parent and I lived
east of Lacy on East Lacy Road, I would not let if you're going to fork River School you're referring to, I would imagine they're getting bus to Fork River School, I would not let my kid cross. I don't care who designated it a safe street. I would not want my kid crossing Route 9 or Lacy Road at any
time. So, I would I would be going the other way and demanding courtesy busing for those kids. >> So, I don't think I don't think there's any universe where where Route 9 and Lacy Road intersection will be ever deemed anything other than hazardous, >> right? >> Unless they put a pedestrian walkway. >> I would agree with this
>> over, you know, over the road. >> So, my question is, what suggestions do you have to remedy this unacceptable situation because I live on the other side and I'm not a kid going to school, but I still can't cross Route 9. >> Yeah, I would. >> So, I believe it's the township's
responsibility within the township to get if we're going to talk safe streets and we're going to talk about infrastructure and so on. It's it's really important that we don't have people going 50 60 miles an hour on a road. >> We meet every every January, okay,
>> maybe early February with the county engineer. We have Lacy Road is county road 614. Route 9 is state. So there's very little we can do. We can get guidance. We have a a county engineer that works with us, works well with us,
addresses our concerns when we go there as a team, and he's always open to our suggestions. But as far as us being able to touch either of those two roads, we are not allowed to. when I attend meetings either at Ruckers or through
these through the Department of New Jersey, Transportation, DOT that I've sat through these meetings and part of this is you get the complete streets in. We get people that there's TMA people and then I'll can I do one really quick one, but I'd like to continue on that
some other time. >> And I would like to request January 1st reorg meeting to be recorded and available for residents on view on YouTube. I don't think you record that meeting, do you? >> Okay. >> I just wanted to double check because somebody told me >> since 1993.
>> Any other comments this evening, Mr. B? >> Oops. Good evening, Lacy residents, uh, mayor and township committee members. First, I want to start off by wishing everyone a very merry Christmas. Um, remember families are really important and our
friends and to be safe during the holidays. That's the most important message. Number two is I have a question, a follow-up question to something that uh, Regina had asked about the assistant business administrator. So, from the comments that I heard from you, you're it seems like it's only going to be a temporary
position, >> we can't speak for future committees, but >> I'm asking you right now, is it a temporary position until uh Veronica decides to retire? And >> there has to be more discussion on that particular. >> Yeah. Well, that's very important
because that impacts the taxpayers as we know. does >> and with health benefits and fixed costs of employees are very expensive. It's an important thing that needs to be addressed when you're doing that. The other thing I wanted to bring a point up with um is we were talking about schools
again. Uh Bob was there at the meeting where they appointed the new school board member. There's now a lawsuit and an injunction is put in place. Um unfortunately our current school board has doesn't follow the rule of the law. They didn't follow the rule of the law with the referendum. they broke the
content neutrality uh rules that are in place and now with the uh appointment of a new candidate for the school board they did not follow the proper procedures. Um but again I listen to yourself Mr. Mayor here encouraging the
school district to put what I call gaslighting information out to the public to try to appear that they are doing something for all the money that they've taken from us. the 20% tax increase over the last two years. Um,
and we we I think it's appalling quite frankly that we have a government body that, you know, the laws don't seem to apply to them. I mean, I was targeted also, which was another illegal act. Um because one of the candidates who ran
for school board who uh took part of the logo on his signs told me that he actually contacted the board president about this issue and she let him do it with no problem. So we have a serious problem here right now and um quite frankly I wish that uh the board
president would resign from the board. I think she's a disgrace. She's taken the school district down. There's been a number of board presidents starting with Sha Giardano all the way down that have really brought the school district down to the level that it is right now and this body has given a million dollars
from the MUA funds which really should have been returned to the rateayers. Um we all need a break. We've gotten big tax increases over the last two years and um we're we're we're paying for all of these things and that we're paying for these lawsuits and there's going to
be more lawsuits with the school. I mean, if if any of you are really aware and have done the research, there are a number of lawsuits against the school and it just keeps growing and growing. There's a reason for that. The superintendent doesn't follow the law. It's apparent that his uh his people who deal with the IEPs aren't following the
law. We have parents following filing lawsuits. And again, when is this body finally going to get up and say that this is just unacceptable? You can't >> Let me respond if you know you you had come up here all throughout the year. I've been respectful to you. You said
you wanted transparency. I called Mrs. Clauss and I said, "Use your pulpit to educate people. Put put some stuff out there." They're responsible for that content. I call it content and information. You call it gaslighting. If they put something out there that's not
true, that's going to be on them. And I'm sure their feet will be held to the fire. But I I I pay taxes like you. I feel it. I don't like it when I hear seniors calling me. I take it personally. I've often referenced my mother up here, the mother of single mom
of four kids. I I take it the taxpayer dollar very seriously. I asked them, I said, "If you're going to go into somebody's pocket, you've heard me say this before, tell us what you're doing." They did that and now you're saying it's gaslighting or it's untrue. It's true or it's not. I want them to do that for you
and for our >> res. The fact of the matter is is that all the money is going to salaries and benefits and nothing else. It's just to keep the swamp, as I like to call it, in their jobs. I mean, you know, I don't have a problem. I want accountability and so do the the taxpayers in this town. Uh you're going to keep increasing
our taxes hugely at the school and it's still not performing at even an average level. That's unacceptable. And I mean, it is the largest pie that goes out of our taxes. And this isn't going to go away. And if you as a group don't start addressing these issues, you're going to
force all of us out of this town. I mean, I hate it when I see I lost two neighbors because of the tax increases. They're both gone now. And there's many other people who are leaving and nobody is sticking up for them. I mean, you're an elected official. What are you doing about it? I mean, I don't care about the
figures that they're putting out, what they're saying, they're improving on these test scores, which if you really look and do the research on the test scores that they're doing and they're taking from 9 million students took those tests and I don't know how many foreign countries. We don't know. >> You didn't like it when they weren't communicating. Now, they're
communicating and you don't like what they're putting out. How do we help you? What What do you What What can I do for you? >> Well, you already know what I wanted you to do. I wanted you to speak out against the tax increases to support the taxpayers in the town and say it's unacceptable to go twice for a 20% tax
increase where things are the way they are. The school district needs to cut back and they need to maybe start looking at regionalization efforts which I've been pushing on for grants which they refuse to do. >> They're wrestling with unions. They're wrestling with blue cross and cost of
medical benefits. Some of this stuff is unavoidable. We are we are not a right to work state like Georgia. I know, but any employer has the right, even under union contracts, to lay people off when they don't have the funds to run the school district. I mean, we basically
took busing away from students, right? And we're paying for all these legal actions, which is totally unfair. And there are people and teachers teaching in the school district who the students have even said are not teaching. I'm sorry. It's unacceptable. And you know what? It's costing us too
much money for the product that it's putting out. And kids education is really important. And you know the board, it starts at the top. If your board is bad, everything underneath it's going to be terrible. And the superintendent, I mean, he's a real
problem as far as I'm concerned. And the board president is a real problem. She thinks I'm the problem. I'm not the one who's breaking the laws. I just want you to know, >> just to interrupt for for a second, as as the makeup of the of the school board, it doesn't help I don't know what fixes it. It does not help when you have
constant turnover on the board. >> So anything you tried to build over again if you took any one of us and you know rotating these terms over three years you're starting from scratch. If I were on a school board and say I wanted to change the curriculum I go on a subcommittee and by the time I get convince the people in my subcommittee
to do it changed and now everything we want to do is out the window. So I mean >> and it takes two years for the average person. I'm just saying two years for them to get to figure out what's really all right. >> So, so I mean I look we all sympathize with high taxes and um you know
there's a lot of things that could be done. It's a it is well out of our hands to address any of the budgeting that goes on in the schools. That is a state uh issue. Regionalization is probably a great idea. I mean this is well above
our pay grade. But see that conversation can also start with this body regionalization right there which is something I've been talking about for the last several years. >> I said might. I don't know all the details. >> I'm just saying we need to start
exploring these different things. That is the point that I've been talking about. And we have a government body that refuses because they don't want to change. I mean, it's been brought to my attention that many people on the school board actually like a lot of the the recommendations that I made, but because
it's coming from me, they'll never initiate them. Now, that tells you they'll bankrupt the school district instead of doing the right thing. >> Can I make a I want to address something there, Rich? The one thing I that's I'm starting to
get frustrated with is because we seem to get stuck on the past and we can't seem to move forward into the future. This past year, like I say, I I there's things I agree with, there's things I don't agree with. There's a lot of discussions that have gone back and
forth. We had a unique situation happened this year because all I've heard all year long, no matter what, we need a change. How much bigger change can you get than when you got a seven member board?
Four people are changing this year. Okay. So now moving forward 26. All these people that are getting blamed for everything aren't going to be there. There may be a few. We don't know how these new members are going to be. We
got to give them a chance. Luckily, we finally got people to get enough interest to even run because we we couldn't even get that. >> So, we're moving ahead. Whether you whether you, me, or somebody else agrees with who won,
I mean, we just had a referendum pass and yet the incumbent lost. So, that sent mixed signals. So, we got to look at the whole thing, but we also got to look look at moving forward. And
even if I agree with a lot of the things that you're saying, we still got to give the new board members a chance to get their feet wet to start with because that that that is one of the problems. I mean, Steve hit it right on the head. I've always said that with boards. It
takes you a couple years before you learn it and then >> right >> if it turns over you know that's the quality of your board. >> Correct. >> But all year long I've heard multiple times every meetings whether it's this
meeting that meeting the majority of our comments from the public at this meeting is school board. We need a change. We need a change. We need a change. Guess what? The voters of Lacy Township just made a change. Correct. Four out of seven people
>> are well until they straighten out this other thing. But no matter what, in the end, there's going to be four new members. No matter how this other turns out, there's going to be four new members. >> So, know what? >> Let's see how they're going to do. Bring
the bring present your case. Let's give them a chance. Oh, I I have no I have no doubt about the new people who are coming on. Their intentions are all noble. I mean, I've spoken to all of them, so I'm very familiar. The issue is is that we still have the old members of
the old regime who are still in control who are the senior members of the school board. >> They're not in they're not in majority control come January. >> Well, come January. Yes, exactly. We'll see what happens. >> We're talking one month. That's why I made the comment I did during pur during
my com is we got to start listening, learning, working together, and respecting each other because there's too much negativity, disrespect, and we got to see where it goes from here. The public has spoken. No matter what group
anybody represents, the Lacy Township taxpayer or voters have made a decision. >> Yes. You also realize as far as the referendum goes, >> we're talking about the school, but you mentioned the referendum also. They they basically did things and spoke about
things that they were not allowed to speak about. If you followed the content neutrality law, it specifically states you're allowed to just say why you're doing it. We sat there where Mr. Zalinski actually called members who were questioning what the school was doing like we were the opponents. We're
not the opponents. We're the taxpayers who are paying the bill. Okay. So the issue with this is and the disrespect to members of the public by the superintendent. I mean quite frankly I really hope that they get rid of him. That's my personal opinion because there's a lot of animosity right now
from members of the public with the way he treats parents. I mean you've seen if you've been at the meetings and you've heard parents speak there and the things that have gone on and how this has been allowed to continue to go on is beyond my even understanding. But these are
change. If that change doesn't happen, I don't think anything is going to change. That's that's my personal opinion. >> That's good. That >> we'll see what happens. Anyway, merry Christmas everyone. >> Merry Christmas >> and a healthy one. Okay. Thank you very much.
>> Mr. Senza, one more respond to something that Mr. Kenn said, >> Regina Desa, Sunset Drive, Sunrise Beach. It's very funny that Mr. Kenneth mentioned so much turnover on the school board when we have a 33-year and 8month
board member leaving at the end of this month and that person does not understand how the open public meetings act works nor their own policy which I made it my business to read beginning to end when I got elected in 2014. >> Okay. Outside of one person, the entire
board has turned turned over >> to the others. >> Yeah, they have the knowledge. I would expect that to work like that. >> Please come up. >> Take your time. >> Come on, young lady.
>> Pat Grant, Fork River. I was a little upset with the comment that uh one of the committee made made about the hours that the men have to spend becoming a volunteer fireman. My husband was a fireman for 73 years. What? What?
>> You don't just go in there and squirt water on wood. >> No, you're you're right. You're right. They what they've done >> Who said that? >> I I did the last meeting. I'm It's 270 hours of training. >> I realize that >> that and what they're trying to do is to
trying to So, we'll have county firefighters, which is going to skyrocket your taxes. Right now, it's all volunteer. >> I understand that. My volunteer for 73 years. >> I know you do. That's what I'm trying to fight. If you talk to the firefighters, they don't want it either. That's why
I'm surprised because young young like my son, my youngest son, he's 30 years old. If he want he couldn't do it. He's got two kids, a mortgage at a job. That's 270 hours. It's like two years every weekend. You have to be there.
They're going to go to county firefighters eventually and it's going to cost us a fortune. and wait till they go to the county EMS side of this thing. It'll cost us another fortune. Taxes are going to skyrocket. >> I understand that. My father-in-law was
one of the founders of the fire company. >> I understand that. I'm not I'm not but I just want you to understand that this is this that's why I'm saying it. I'm not against the firefighters. I am against them re making them county firefighters. >> Something else I'd like to mention. A hundred years ago, a library was
established in Fork River in the home of Julia Fouche. Her house still stands on the corner of Station Drive and Parker Avenue. And you've been giving proclamations for all the newcomers, but you never mentioned a hundred years ago we did have
a library such as it was. And eventually when they did have a library that was established, the township paid their salary. I think it was a hundred a $1.75 cents an hour or something. So God bless all those women.
>> Yep. Thank you. >> I don't think we ever had a man librarian. >> Thank you, Pat. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Thanks, M. >> Any other comments this evening? >> Seeing none, motion to close the floor. >> Second. >> All in favor?
>> I. Resolution 2025-334 resolution in the town of Lacy County of Ocean State of New Jersey authorizing the convening of the executive session in accordance with the open public meeting to discuss personnel contraction letters and pending anticipated location. >> Move it. >> Second. All in favor?
>> I motion to move it. All >> in favor? >> I. No further business.