Just take or something. of the Long >> Apologies. The meeting of the Long Council now come to order. Welcome everyone. It's a We got a busy agenda ahead of us. So, let's all play nice and uh we'll get through it. Um, with that statement of proper notice, adequate
notice of this meeting of the Florence Township Council being held on Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 has been provided through the posting of the annual meeting schedule of said council in accordance with section 13 of the open public committees act. Said notices were forwarded to the tronium, the times in
the princet on December 12, 2025. In addition, it is been posted prominently on our website. With that, we have the inspiration for May we carry out our work at this meeting in a just, honorable, and sincere manner, always bearing in mind
our duties and continuing to keep Lawrence a wonderful community in which to live. I aliance to the flag of the United States of America to the Republic.
One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all >> here. Mr. >> Here, >> Mr. Here >> mayor >> here that we will move on to special
proclamations recognition recognitions and presentations. I'm eagerly awaiting the presentation by Gary R. Backnoff Espire regarding Lawrence Nonprofit Housing Inc. Strategic Plan 2026 through 2029.
Mr. >> Good evening. My name is Gary Backov. I've had the honor and pleasure of representing Lawrence Nonprofit Housing A for the last 40 years or so. Um I'd like to first thank Mayor Bobbit the council for placing them on the agenda this evening. As many of you already
know, they've done a tremendous job over the last 50 years and providing quality affordable housing for moderate low-inccome people for residents of large township. Recently they've done over $3.5 million worth of improvements to the facility. But perhaps more
importantly, they've stayed with the tenant focused uh services and provided programs working in conjunction with township board of education and many other community support supporters here in this wonderful capital of arts. I know you have an absolutely loaded
agenda. I'm not going to present the strategic plan. I'd rather call upon my board president over here who lived at our Edge has a long history maybe not as long as mine but long history with the project can
talk much more specifically about what's going on at >> Thank you. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. Um, I did send over uh, well, we did send over a um, email with the
presentation that our strategic strategic plan in it, but I did make hard copies for each board member. Get those, please. Thank you again. Good evening and thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak. I'm here on behalf of Lawrence Nonprofit
Housing, an organization with more than 50 years of service dedicated to advocating for affordable housing in Lawrence Township. Lawrence Nonprofit Housing serves as the sole partner of the Edgar Crossing Village, a 100 unit
affordable housing community that has provided stability and opportunity for generations of residents. Recently, Lawrence nonprofit housing undertook a comprehensive strategic planning process to determine how best to reinvest in the community and strengthen our lifelong
impact. That process included stakeholder feedback, resident input, demographic analysis and review of municipality housing data. Our central focus remains the continued success and s sustainability of Edgar's Crossing
Village. Our mission is to demonstrate the productive role affordable housing can play in helping people thrive while fostering healthy, resilient, inclusive, and caring communities. Our vision is to ensure that every person has access to
safe and affordable housing and the opportunity to thrive. I stand I stand before you not only as a representative of Lawrence nonprofit housing's mission but also as someone whose life was shaped by this community.
I am a former resident of Edgar Crossing Village. I attended Lawrence Township Public Schools, graduated from Lawrence High School, and later earned my master's degree in accounting from neighboring Ryder University. After marrying and starting a family of
my own, I felt a strong desire to give back to the community that helped shape me into the person I am today. That is why I joined the board of Lawrence Nonprofit Housing many years ago and why I now proudly serve as president of the board of directors.
My commitment is to help ensure Edgar's Crossing Village remains a strong, well-maintained and thriving community for today's families and for generations to come. Our strategic priorities are preserving and strengthening Edgar
Crossing Village. First, we are committed to maintaining Edgar Crossing Village as a safe, stable, and highquality community. That includes continued investment in infrastructure, sound financial stewardship, property properly uh
sustain property sustainability, excuse me, and meaningful resident engagement. Our second goal is to expand resident support services. We want to go beyond housing by expanding access access to services that support support
sustainability and upward mobility. This includes financial literacy programs, support for senior aging in place, expand opportunities for youth and families, pathways to economic mobility and home ownership for residents who are
ready for the next step. We would also welcome the opportunity to work with council and every child value to reactivate the afterchool program for Lawrence intermediate school students at the Lawrence Community Center. We'd also like to partner with the
township to advance affordable housing opportunities. Lawrence Nonprofit Housing seeks to be a strong and collaborative partner to the township and in advancing housing goals. We want to actively support redevelopment efforts, including opportunities
connected to the community center. In addition, we will continue to advocate for low and moderate income residents while exploring innovative housing models that create pathways to home ownership. And finally, we want to strengthen large
nonprofit housing. To achieve these goals, we recognize the need to strengthen our internal capab capacity. This includes expanding and developing our board, increasing or organization capacity, and hiring hiring a part-time
executive director to help lead and imple implement the future growth, which we've already started that process. Lawrence nonprofit houses will housing will operate under the adaptive strategy, strategic framework, excuse me, that
allows flexibility to respond to evolving community needs. This includes annual planning tied to budget priorities, regular progress reports and measuring measurable benchmarks. Ongoing collaborative
collaboration with municipal and community partners. We also are fortunate to have several valued community partners with us this evening and I would like to acknowledge their commitment to supporting our mission and advancing affordable housing
opportunities in Lawrence. We have Chris Wooy, the chair of every child value. We have Dr. Robin Clint, superintendent of schools for Lawrence Township Public Schools. We also have the Orus Township board president Michelle Bose,
representatives from Lawrence Church of uh Presbyterian Church of Lawrenville, uh PRD management, Project Freedom, Tracy Battis, executive director. Lawrence Nonprofit Housing is is positioning itself not only as a housing
provider, but as a committed community partner and advocate. We are focused on preserving critical affordable housing, expanding opportunities for residents, and working working collaboratively with the township to strengthen our community
and ensure long-term housing stability in Lawrence. Thank you for your time and continued support. We welcome your partnership as we move this important uh work forward. Thank you. Thank you for coming to present your
strategic plan. Horses nonprofit housing has been a partner with the township for a long time and I think all of us up here ready to support >> Yeah. >> I just want to thank um Can you hear me?
>> Yes. >> Okay. Just want to thank you Miss Martin for your presentation. um and for the advocacy that Lawrence nonprofit continues to do for our township. You are a tremendous example of successful community that has
contributed to our move forward. So, thank you. >> All right. Any other questions from council? Is that is that the end of the present? I just I don't want to cut you off. >> I like to add something to it.
>> Yeah. Otherwise, I'm going to limit you to five minutes. >> You don't have to give your address. >> We know where you live. >> I I wrote it down so I wouldn't have talked too long. appreciate.
>> Uh, good evening, council members, ladies and gentlemen. I speak to to you tonight representing the founders of this organization. There were 27 of us at the time we
started on this venture in 1965. I won't take time to read their names, but they were from all areas of Lawrence Township. They came together as a community to satisfy a social need to provide low and
moderate income housing for families living in substandard housing in Lawrence. It certainly was not an easy task. 60 years later, there's four of us living out of 27.
Myself, Edith Pike, Herbert Clur, and Joseph Fineberg. There is a plaque in the lobby of the community building in the village that lists the names of founders of the founders.
Tonight is a witness to the world that their dreams, aspirations, hard work, dedication was not in vain. Norris nonprofit housing has
demonstrated that the productive role affordable housing can play in helping people to thrive thrive within a healthy, resilient, inclusive, and caring community.
That's so evident tonight because the presenter of our strategic plan was a child raised in Acres Cross and [ __ ] was a student in our school system
as a family and as a homeowner. Ma, thank you for a job well done. Lawrence nonprofit housing has also demonstrated
the productive role the community can play in establishing the Lawrence Community Center into a facility that meets the needs of residents of Lawrence Township. Thank you.
THANK YOU. >> Back off. >> This is kind of frequent. >> Looks like that's it. I'm trying to keep control. >> I appreciate it. I just >> No, this isn't I haven't opened up public personalization yet. So,
>> okay. No, wait. topic. >> All right. So with that I thank you again to to to you Mr. Boff as well as everyone else for the presentation. Um great sub and wish you the best on the strategic plan. With that we will move
on to public participation five minute limitation and I will read my little disclaimer at the beginning. Um the purpose of public public comment period is for members of the public to inform the governing body of their views. This time is an opportunity for the council
to listen with care to the public and to consider what we hear in our deliberations. This is not a time for back and forth dialogue as it can be difficult for us on the day to give accurate responses on critical and complex issues on the spot. Rather, one can call or email members of council,
manager or clerk seeking additional information or response to an issue. I would like to read two excerpts from the Lawrence Township Administrative Code. Uh 10:22, manner of addressing council. A person may address the council upon recognition by the chair. The person addressing the council shall write down
their name and address on the signin sheet. Step up to the microphone, shall give their name in an audible tone of voice, or for the record, and shall have the right to address the council for the amount of time by the chair. No person having the floor shall be permitted to enter into any discussion either
directly through a member of the council without the permission of the chair. No question shall be asked of council person except through the chair. 10:23 decor on the council meetings. Any person making impertinent or slanderous remarks or who shall become boisterous while addressing the council shall forth
with be barred from further audience before the council by the presiding officer unless permission to continue or again address the council be granted by the majority vote of the council. And with that who would like to have first come Mr. Ward. Welcome. Um, I'm Chris Wy. Um I live at 179 drive
in Lawrence and welcome I come here tonight on behalf of every child value to extend a personal invitation to each of you to join us on Wednesday May 13th 2026 at Lawrence High School for what I believe will be a truly memorable
evening for this community. The evening is part of our before the dream the untold story of young Martin Luther King Jr. program. Every Child Value will um
be presenting the Martin Luther King Jr. Award for service to our community to Fred Green Jr. Fred has given so much to the young people and families of Lawrence Township over the last 70 years and we want him to look out into the room and see a full breadth of community
standing with them. I want to share about this award. Uh it's the first the first year in the first year we we presented this award, we presented it to Chief Christopher Longo. Um in recognition of his
dedicated service to the township and his commitment to building and meaning a police force uh that is community centered, genuinely responsive to the people it serves. Um that's the standard we set and Fred Bini certainly fills
that that standard. We're also honored to welcome our keynote speaker Dr. Lauron A. Martin Stanford University and director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute. Dr. Martin will be
speaking on his forthcoming book, Young King, the Life of the Youth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This is not a routine program. Dr. Martin brings scholarship and storytelling together in a way that I think will stay with everyone in that room. I'm asking you
tonight to please mark your calendars to join us on May 13th. Your presence matters, not just ceremoniously ceremonially, but because this community deserves to see its elected appointed leaders show up for moments like this.
We'll make sure you're well taken care of that evening. Please reach out to me directly with any questions or RSDP. I'm grateful for your time. I'm grateful for your service to the community. I'd like to hand out these flyers to you
so that you can hit the QR code and um put your name on the list and we'll be sure to recognize you there. >> Thank you all very much. Thank you, Mr. Welcome. >> Good evening. My name is Dr. Robin Finn. I'm the very proud superintendent of
schools for Warren Township. Thank you for your time this evening. Um, good evening, mayor, town council members, town manager, and community partners in the audience. I want to thank you for this opportunity to speak in front of you this evening. I come before you as the superintendent of schools, a
committed partner in the continued growth and strength of this township. Also seated in the audience beside me this evening is our schoolboard president, Michelle Bose. As affordable housing expands in Lawrence, we recognize both the responsibility and
opportunity that comes with that growth. Public education sits at the center of that work. Our role is very clear to ensure that every child who enters our schools, regardless of circumstance or where they live in the community, is met with access, opportunity, and a pathway
to success. It is especially timely that I speak before you following the review of the Lawrence nonprofit strategic plan delivered this evening. The vision outlined reinforces what we know to be true. When we invest in families,
education, and community support, we create the conditions the individuals and families must have to thrive. We remain steadfast in our commitment to laying that foundation early. Our investment in a free, highquality preschool program is intentional and
equitydriven. We know that early access is not just beneficial yet transformative. It closes gaps before they even widen and sets the stage for long-term achievement. Beyond early childhood, we're equally focused on removing barriers and providing
opportunities for our students through our partnership with foreign nonprofit housing and in alignment with their strategic plan. This evening, we are supporting residents and expanding opportunities by working collaboratively to identify families in need through every child value and our school-based
teams. We actively connect to scholarship programs, academic supports, and provide enrichment opportunities. We've also expanded access to advanced coursework at high school through schoolwide title one funding. We're now able to open the door to advanced
placement coursework and dual enrollment, dual enrollment opportunities, ensuring that any financial barrier does not prevent students from reaching their highest potential. This is about access and also about expectation. We believe deeply that all students can achieve at high
levels with the right supports. None of this work happens in isolation. It is made possible through the partnerships with this council, the community members and organizations represented here this evening. The Lawrence nonprofit strategic plan speaks to building
healthy, resilient, inclusive, and caring communities and supporting residents in achieving their goals. That vision is directly aligned with the work that we do in our schools every day. I want to be clear. As our township grows, our commitment does not waver. We will
continue to plan responsibly, advocate for the resources our students need, and align our programming to meet the evolving needs of this community. I believe in this township. I believe in the leadership seeded before us, and I'm deeply grateful for the relationships
we've already built together. There is a shared understanding that growth must be thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded in opportunity for all. Our commitment is simple and unwavering, ensuring that when Lawrence Township grows, every child and family rises with it.
Together, we can define what is possible for our community moving forward. And I thank you for your public service and continued partnership. Um, as a parent of two children in the public schools, I just want to say thank you so much Dr. Clim and U. Michelle Bose for being here and being wonderful
partners. >> All right. Welcome. Good evening. Uh, my name is Barbara Haristen. I live at 2112 Oak Circle in the Carriage Park Apartments. I I signed my name in thinking I would be called
up. I didn't know you stepped up, which I have no problem doing. U I've been a resident of Lawrence Township since 2021 and I attend the Hamilton Senior Center on a regular basis. Um I don't know if anyone knows but Lillian
Lel who is a director retired last month. Um, I'm listening to what I can and cannot say and also the time limit that I have. And I know I can ramble some, but I would like to um know what
the future is of the Hamilton Senior Center. And as I said to the mayor, >> Hamilton, >> sorry, I was in Hamilton at the Wilson Center earlier. I think my center's a little cuz I'm all over the place. still have a chance to make their meeting which is happening right now.
>> No, I was there earlier in Hamilton. All right. So, all right. But at the Lawrence Senior Center, um Lillian retired and I reached out to Mayor Fit and uh to ask him a couple
questions. And as I told him, I never heard back. He and I know this already. And I did. >> I already told him I was going to bring it up. I uh called and spoke to Kevin Derwinsky and he was very kind and
called me back and um I just would like to know and it doesn't of course have to be tonight but two minutes what the plans are for the house. >> Oh my gosh, I said it again for the large senior center. >> I might take a minute off for that.
>> I said earlier yesterday I needed a drink. I think I need one now. the Lawrence Senior Center. I would appreciate it if someone in authority would come over and give the residents of the senior center. I'll just leave it
at that. An update of what's going on. As I said when I talked to Mr. Nwinsky, I don't deal in rumors. I heard this from this person and this from this person. That's not how I roll. Okay? And I do and I've talked to some of the the
people who attend the center and we're all kind of the same way. Someone needs to come and speak with us and let us know what's going on. So I'm done. In fact, >> council, thank you for your comments.
All good. Did great. Uh Mr. Mr. I'm the laz for the senior center and at our last meeting on the board of directors. Uh Nancy got into the meeting and explained
to the board of directors what was what there's the changes that ain't going to happen and what she's looking to do to improve the senior center. Now, what you your request I think it should be done
like at lunchtime when you're zing it for lunch. I'll work it out with Nancy and I will come by and explain it to you because that's when you got the biggest crowd that I would love for that to happen. Today I stopped by the Lawrence
Senior Center. On Tuesdays, we have club meetings and I think because of the weather there were very few people there. So, so the cold does keep people in. So, I think what we'll do is we'll talk amongst council
and manager and uh Nancy Gen, our superintendent of recreation who's overseas the senior center and we'll put together a time and we'll notice it with enough time so that people will know that >> I'd appreciate that. Thank you so much, ma'am. >> Yeah, Mr. Let the record reflect. That's
one nothing. I'm beating you with one. >> We did we did have a long talk and what and the la I think it was the last meeting I delivered um an explanation. Yeah. >> Um I actually have uh a copy of what I read into the record at the last meeting. Okay. >> I'm going to run off some copies and
we'll have that at the at the facility um tomorrow or the next day just so people can see what what I said at the meeting because it kind of does lay out what the plans are. Okay. We're fully committed to making sure the senior the senior programming is is expanded and even better than it is now. So,
>> Okay. I appreciate that. Thank you so much. >> All right. Anyone else? Good evening, Mayor Bobin and council members. >> Don't forget state your name, please. >> Yes, my name is Victoria McCann and I am representing Mercer Council. Um that is
on 1931 Brunswick app. Um so once again, my name is Victoria McCann. Um, I'm representing Mercer Council. Uh, Mercer Council is a local nonprofit based in Lawrence Township. We have around We have been around for 48 years providing
high quality substance use prevention and early intervention programs, services, and support to our community. I am part of the community prevention coalition team. We manage the prevention coalition of Mercer County whose mission
is to reduce substance abuse in youth and across the lifespan. We have about 20 active members who attend our monthly meetings and a roster of around 50 members throughout the county. Currently, our coalition is focusing on
tobacco merchant education with the end goal to eliminate sales to minor and flavored vaping products still being sold. This is specifically important to not only New Jersey but also Mercer County. The SEAR amendment enforces laws
prohibiting sales to minors, those under the age of 21. States must conduct annual random unannounced inspections of retailers and maintain a retail violation rate of 20% or less to avoid
losing up to 10% of federal funding. New Jersey receives around $52 million from the federal government, equating to about $5.2 million and potential loss of funding.
Mercer County's three-year violation rate for 2023 to 2025 was 37.5%. And ranked fifth in all counties in inspection violations. So, we're kind of in the hot seat.
Our coalition is providing educational folders to retail tobacco stores that include the required postage and otherformational pamphlets regarding the current tobacco and vaping laws at the state and federal level. We have
partnered with the New Jersey Prevention Network, which is a statewide prevention agency, as well as local health and police departments to support enforcement of these laws and provide technical assistance. Vaping and ecigarette companies have
specifically targeted youth through their branding, advertising, and flavored products. In response, New Jersey enacted a law in 2020 banning all vapes and ecigarettes with characterizing flavors, meaning only tobacco flavored products can be
sold. Despite this law, flavored products are still widely available in gas stations, convenience stores, and even major retail chains. 42% of retailers were still selling illegal flavored vape products in Mercer County
in 2024. The current retail license fee of $50 for tobacco and vapor products is too low to effectively deter retailers from selling to underage individuals who are selling illegal products. Vapor business
licenses in New Jersey are only required for businesses deriving over 50% of retail sales from electronic smoking devices and liquid nicotine. This license creates another loophole for distributors to go around. Our
community needs stronger local action. By establishing township level licensing with higher fees, stricter enforcement, and higher fines, we can better hold retailers accountable and reduce the availability of these illegal products which result in protecting our youth
from potential addiction and health related illnesses later on in life. we can be the model township that other townships will soon follow in our footsteps in creating a positive change for a community, especially the youth.
Thank you again for your time. Um, if you have any questions, I'm more than happy to answer them. Um, if you are interested in joining our coalition, I do have coalition flyers as well. Um, and once again, my name is Victoria McCann and I am with Mercer Council.
>> THANK YOU. I HAVE A QUESTION. >> And then just go back to a question. >> Yes. New Jersey violations. Yes, >> within the country.
>> Um, so this is within uh the state. >> Mercer County would be ranked fifth um in this state and this was according to the sign report. >> Anyone else for public comment? Seeing none, I'm going to close public
comment and move on >> to review and revision of the agenda. Do we have any changes? >> Mayor, I do not think I am in need of any close session tonight.
>> Okay. So, remove >> right. So, let's no one move. Anything else? Do we have to do anything? >> Nothing's listed on it, so I think we're okay. >> Okay. The phone number is always there
because we have to make aware. >> Wonderful. Thank you. Thank you. Um we'll move on to uh item number eight, adoption of minutes at previous meetings. Motion like to move 8A, adoption of minutes for regular meeting
March 17th, 2026. >> Miss, >> yes. >> Mr. G. >> Yes. >> Mr. Ki. >> Yes. >> Centers. Yes. >> Yes. Awarding and or rejecting a bid. I have
a motion for 9A. >> Like to move 9A number 161 authorizing award of bid to master building and design for rehabilitation at 11 share court. >> Have a second. >> Second. >> All right. M. >> This is a part of our affordable housing
rehabilitation program. It authorizes an award to master building design for $5,920. Thank you. Any questions from council? Any questions from the public about this? Seeing none questions. >> Miss Bmer,
>> yes. >> Mr. Cleo, >> yes. >> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Miss Santos, >> yes. >> Mayor, >> yes. >> A motion for move 9B number 162 authorizing award of bid to master building design for rehabilitation at
one point. >> Second. >> Thank you, Mr. Same thing for a rehab program uh to master build and design in the amount of $26,500. >> Any questions from council on the public?
>> I'm sorry. Excuse me. Um what is Can you tell me what that is? Um the master rebuild like I'm sorry. What does that mean? It's it's a it's a we are awarding the a bid to master build and design for the rehabilitation of 120 Slack Avenue.
>> Okay. Is that for like a major overhaul? >> As as Mr. Ninsky stated, it's for it's part of our affordable housing component. So, it's rebuilding a house. >> Okay. >> Do you have a Would you like to come up and question the the bid or is >> No, no, I'm asking I I my mom lives a
couple doors down and so I looked up to see there's a already a house there. So I was kind of confused like >> do you want to come up and we can >> No, no, it's it's good. It's good. >> Okay. All right. >> May I have a little bit more? >> Do you want >> So ma'am?
>> They explained it to me. >> Okay. So it's a part we have a we have a rehabilitation program underneath our affordable housing program and for qualifying households they do uh rehab for inter interior you know improvements. So this isn't like the
building of anything. It's it's improving a variety of different things and the program is more thoroughly described on our our website. Not enough people take advantage of it. There's a zoom people are qualified to get this type of assistance. So, Mr. Winsky, would it be fair to say that if you meet
a certain income threshold, the township will help subsidize renovations to your property to keep it in good state. >> Okay. >> Thank you. I'm sorry. >> From affordable housing, right? >> I just didn't understand. >> No, completely understand. >> Thank you question. Uh the money comes
from here, >> Mr. Our affordable housing trust fund >> received through developers who who build within our town. They are required by law to provide um um payment to the town for to fund this program. >> Thank you.
>> Any other questions for council? Any other questions from the public? >> All right. Comment comments and we'll move to uh question. Miss Farmer, >> yes. >> Mr. Leo, >> yes.
>> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Dentos, >> yes. >> Mayor B, >> yes. >> Have a motion for 9C. >> Like to move 9C number 163, authorizing award of bid to unlimited construction for rehabilitation at 331 Federal City Boulevard. >> Have a second.
>> Second. >> Mr. This is for the same program. This uh award would go to unlimited construction in the amount of $17,700. Thank you. Any questions from council? Any questions from the public?
Seeing none, all questions. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kaki. >> Yes. >> Santos. >> Yes. >> Mayor B. >> Yes. And now uh introduction of ordinances.
I would like to move 10 A ordinance number 259-26 an ordinance amending ordinance number 253-26 salary ordinance of the warrants unclassified and/or exempt seasonal emergency non-UN employees for 2026
through 2029. This is an annual increase deleting sip for fire department liaison and adding title assistant superintendent of public works to grade 12. Have >> a second. This adjustment um this amendment provides for annual adjustments deletes
the stipen for the fire department leazison on a position that no longer exists and adds the title of assistant superintendent of public works to grade 12. This is not a new hire. It's it's a new position and this emanates through bargaining that took place with the labor.
Any questions? Now, I've been by our uh attorney to um because of some of the uh international ordinances, typically we don't allow public comment, but Mr. Sidekick has has has sent an email to me, so I'll just
read it to everyone. Council will allow limited public comment on ordinances on the agenda for first reading, not to exceed three minutes. Please note that the public the formal public hearing will occur at second reading of the ordinance on May 19th 26 and that's when you could have a longer period of of
comment but judging by some of these ordinances people might want to say something. So we're going to limit it to three minutes. So I will open it up to the public if anyone wants to discuss make a comment on ordinance number 25926. Seeing none, I will close public comment
on this and call it. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. Cle, >> yes. >> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. Got a motion for 10 B. Motion B, ordinance number 2510-26,
an ordinance repealing existing article 9, affordable housing procedural and eligibility requirements of the township land use ordinance in entirety and replacing it with a new article 10 affordable housing procedural and eligibility requirements. Affordable housing ordinance. I have a second.
>> Thank you, Mr. Matthew. Mr. Just a brief explanation. This ordinance updates and replaces the township's existing affordable housing regulations to comply with current state law and court requirements. It establishes comprehensive rules for how affordable housing is planned, built, marketed, and
maintained, including requirements for income eligibility, pricing, long-term affordability controls, and administration, ensuring that affordable housing units remain available to low and moderate income households over time. Any
questions from council? Any questions from the public? Seeing none questions. >> Miss Farmer. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. Kaki. >> Yes. >> Santos. >> Yes. >> Mayor Bobby.
>> Yes. Motion for 10. >> 10 C. Ordinance number 2511-26 an ordinance creating section 426.1 neighborhood one overlay district in article 4 zoning district regulations of the land use ordinance to permit inclusionary and inclus inclusionary
mixeduse development ordinance creating a neighborhood one overlay district >> second this arises out of a mediation agreement with fair share housing center of New Jersey um it's an ordinance that creates a new neighborhood hood one overlay district for a portion of the former
ETSs campus to allow the development of a new mixeduse residential neighborhood. It establishes standards for a variety of housing types, requires a portion of the units to be affordable, and sets design, density, and open space requirements to ensure the area is developed as a walkable interconnected
community with access to parks, recreation, and supporting neighborhood services. >> Thank you. Any questions from council? See none. Any questions from the public? Seeing none public questions.
>> Miss Farmer, >> yes. >> Miss Jio, >> yes. >> Mr. Ki, >> yes. >> Miss Sanchez, >> yes. Mayor B. >> Yes. And motion for 10. like to move the Ordinance number 2512-26, an ordinance amending section 421, regional
commercial RC district of article 4, zoning district regulations of the land use ordinance to permit increased inclusionary development at the Quaker Bridge Mall property in accordance with the township mediation agreement with Fair Housing Center ordinance amending the RSC regional commercial district. Do
I have a second Mr. Mr. Ninsky? Yeah, this arises out of a mediation agreement with Fairshair Housing Center who filed an objection to our fourth round uh program and um through mediation that was overseen by a retired superior court judge, we arrived at an agreement uh
which allows uh an additional 100 homes as an overlay on the Quaker Mo uh mall site. Um, it's an ordinance that updates the township's zoning rules for the regional commercial district to allow additional residential development, including affordable housing at the
Quakeridge Mall property. It establishes standards for mixeduse development that may include housing along with retail, restaurant, and office uses while setting limits on density, total number of units, and requiring a portion of the housing to be affordable in accordance with the township housing obligations.
Very importantly, this is not um this is just this is an overlay that is included in our affordable housing plan. It does not mean that this is something that will happen. It's just uh our township's inclusion into our program to provide
realistic opportunities for housing in certain areas. >> Thank you, Mr. Any questions from council? See none. Any questions from the public? See questions. >> Miss Farmer,
>> yes. >> Mr. Z, >> yes. >> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Miss Santos, >> yes. >> Mayor Bob, >> yes. Do I have a motion for 10? >> Like 10 E, ordinance number 2513-26, an ordinance amending section 409, apartment townhouse, AT district of
article 4, zoning district regulations of the land use ordinance to permit inclusionary and inclusionary mixed use development ordinance amending the A district. >> Have a second. Thank you, Mr. Thank you, Mr. Once. Again, this arises out of a mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing Center of New Jersey. Requires
the township to permit inclusionary development at the property known as 3450 Princeton Pike and the adjacent lot along Linux Drive. So, the ordinance updates the township zoning rules for certain properties within the at apartment and townhouse district to allow for housing that includes
affordable units. It also changes zoning designation for specific sites, including properties along Lennox Drive and at Harvey's Corner, by placing them into a new overlay district and establishing detailed standards for how these areas can be developed, such as
permitted uses, building density, and layout requirements. >> Thank you. Any questions from council? See none. Any questions from the public? See none. All questions. >> Miss Farmer,
>> yes. >> Miss Jiglia, >> yes. >> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Mr. Mel, >> yes. >> And mayor, >> yes. a motion for like to intent. Ordinance number 2514-26, an ordinance repealing existing section
901 affordable housing contribution of article 9 fees, guarantees, inspections, and offtrack improvements of the township land use ordinance in entirety and replacing it with a new section 901 affordable housing contribution affordable housing redevelopment fee
ordinance. Do I have a second? Thank you, Mr. >> Again, this arises out of our mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing Center New Jersey. It's an ordinance that updates the township's rules for collecting development fees from residential and non-residential projects to support affordable housing. It
replaces the existing ordinance with new standards that align with current state law establishing how fees are calculated and collected and requires that all funds be deposited into a dedicated affordable housing trust fund used exclusively for creating and maintaining affordable housing in the township.
>> Thank you. Any questions from the public? >> M. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Santos. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> No. No ordinances to the adopted
managers report. So this is um this is the time and place for the public hearing and adoption of the 2026 municipal budget of the town of Lawrence County of Mercer State of New Jersey. Notice of this hearing was provided in accordance with the law and a complete copy of the budget has been made
available for public inspection as required and made available upon request. We've had several budget related public meetings where I read the 2026 budget message into the record. department heads made presentations and answered any questions posed to them.
All the council members have met with Peter Kiraakadus and myself on several occasions to uh to go over the details of the budget as introduced and I have responded to each of your follow-up inquiries. At this time, I ask that the resolution authorizing the budget to be
read by title only as allowed by law under NJSA4A 4-8 at SEC be made, seconded, and voted on by the governing body. >> All right. Do I have a motion for 12 A? >> Like to move 12 A number 164 authorizing
the budget to be read by title only. >> Second. >> Second. >> Thank you, M. Question. Mr. Farmer, >> yes. >> Jig, >> yes. >> Mr. Kanaki, >> yes. >> Miss Santos, >> yes. Mayor Bett,
>> yes. >> Thank you, mayor. This is uh a public hearing on the calendar year 2026 mal budget for the council of Lawrence. It's now open. And so members of the public, if they have objections, are able to come and state those objections because
I'm assuming at this point, council is we're all okay. So, anyone from the public is feel free to come up and ask questions about the budget. >> All right. With that, I do not see anyone coming forward, so I public
comment. >> Okay. And I just want to thank Peter Kirkus and all the department heads throughout this entire budget process. Um many people on the outside just don't understand how talented u and dedicated
these people are and as all all of our staff. Um uh it's always been a pleasure to work with them and try to help them realize their visions because they take a lot of pride in what they do and um and this budget reflects a lot of hard
work and uh commitment to respecting taxpayers but also ensuring that essential services are are maintained and improved when we can in a in a very fiscally sound way. So uh I just want to publicly thank all of you guys uh for
that and um respectfully I offer the 2026 budget for adoption by vote by the governing body. This will require a motion, a second and a polling of the clerk. Before that I'm just going to say I'm going to put him on the spot because it's his last budget. I just want to
personally thank Mr. Kirkus for all the work that he's done over the 10 years that I've been on council. He has listened to all of my questions. informed about how the budget cycle works, what surplus means, all all revenue streams, appropriations cap,
levy cap, all the all the nuances of of the budget. I just want to say publicly THANK >> I just >> the institutional knowledge that we're losing is great but Chris Hart is here has been working with Peter every day so
we can have a smooth transfer in succession he's more than up to the task and um I look forward to working with him as Well, and I want to thank Pete again for sticking around for allowing us to have this succession happen.
>> Okay, that's very and >> with that, do I have a motion for 12B? >> Like 12B number 165 authorizing the adoption of the 2026 municipal budget. >> Second. >> Second, >> Mr. Farmer.
>> Yes. And if I could just again thank um and Kevin for the information that you share with us um for the tremendous work that you do on behalf of the residents of Lawrence County. >> Mr. Cleo, >> yes.
>> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Santos, >> yes. >> Mayor B. >> Yes. Congratulations. attorney's report >> briefly. Uh, mayor, I supplied you and council with a memorandum, rather detailed memorandum earlier today with
regard to the RFP process uh for the neighborhood center that Mr. Dwinsky and I have been working on rather closely. Uh, that is a fluid document that will change as we continue to uh fine-tune the RP. It's my understanding that we
hopefully will have a final document for production by is it May 15th? >> Our target date is May 15th to get it out. >> Yes. So, uh that memorandum is not yet uh public record because it's still a work product in process. But we will
have I I do believe we will have all the proper bases covered in terms of legality and we will have a document that will be available uh I'm sure by May 15. >> Thank you. I I appreciate the work that
you and Mr. chairman here put into this to adopt the eyes across the te because I know how much hard work that Counciloman Farmer and Councilwoman Jiglio put into the task force and I think the community deserves for us to have a a sort of legally sound and
operationally sound um RFP as well as something that all five of us will review for sort of to make sure the mission vision and values of that task force report is that spirit is lived up to. So thank you. >> Yeah, of course. Any questions for
council? Um, just because I know some uh possibly some people who are watching will want to know this question. Will any stakeholders be able to see the RFP before it goes out today? >> And no, is the fine answer. I'm just >> it's not that that is a policy decision
for you guys to >> I mean, you know, so if you if that's something that you feel strongly about doing, you know, a majority of council rules in that situation and we could do that. We we could work collaboratively on it. Have it a completely done process. Not have it go out until you
feel it's appropriate that everyone has weighed in on it. >> Thank you. >> Any other questions? >> Not a question. I just want to make a statement and thank my fellow council members for your hard work in advance.
>> Anyone else for questions for Mr. Seek? What's your report? >> Just a few things. >> Always. All right. The financial disclosures um were distributed April 1st. April 30th is the deadline. Okay.
So, I'm not sure if you need any help. Let me uh April 18. Um the vote by mail ballots supposedly went out. The box is open now um out there to put your ballots in that
we opened it um on Monday, yesterday. Um May 12th is the deadline to register to vote. So please make sure you take note of that. Uh early voting will begin on May 26 to the 31st. And of course,
primary election day will be June 2nd um from 6:00 to 8. The polls will be open. And I have the ABC licenses have gone out for. So that's what we're working on now. And that's it. >> Uh unfinished business. Oh, any
questions from unfinished business? New business. Old business. All right. Public participation. Three minutes. Come on. >> No, I can't. So, you're you're good.
I'm sorry. I was a bit neglectful. Um, I gave these to council members. Thank you so much. I hope I know some people already signed up. I've seen your names on the list. So, thank you for that. But um I'll pass these out to everybody here if it's okay with the mayor. Is the
right doesn't create a disturbance. Don't just don't create a disturbance. Thank you. So, >> Martha, friend, and I have to ask a question about my address because I've only lived here about 15 years. 976
Lawrenceville Road or Lawrence Road. Seriously, >> tell me, please. >> If if you're trying to find it by uh like Map Quest or Google or something like that, it's Lawrenceville Road, >> but technically it's Lawrence Road 206.
>> Yeah, but when we first moved, the paperwork all said Lawrenceville, so everything for me has been Lawrenceville, but you know. >> Yeah. >> Sorry, it's not supposed to be back. I apologize. So >> that was >> that was it. So actually my um I I know the police chief is here so this might
be for him. I'm not sure. Just a suggestion. There was a time after a really bad storm and there were multiple roads down I think they were in Princeton on 206 on Princeton Pike. those of us trying to get to work um heading into Princeton. It was mass
chaos um along 206 because people didn't realize that ahead it was closed to in Princeton Pike. It was closed. My only thought those wonderful digital signs even if the closure is in Princeton I wonder if they could be deployed. I
don't even know what that looks like. How much effort that is to type in a message. Hey, a mile down the road it's going to be closed. So people didn't spend so long waiting in line to try to turn around and it always turns into kind of dangerous situations with people stressed to get to work. Just a thought,
those digital signs can be super helpful. Just don't worry about that. Thanks. Good evening, Mayor, >> council members. >> Yes, Sylvia Kovas. >> Thank you. >> Um, uh, I always take an opportunity
when we have a budget adaptation to thank all of the department heads for for doing a wonderful job, uh, for our township. um you get a lot of complaints and you get a lot of calls requesting things and
um very few thanks. So on behalf of my neighborhood, we thank you for for all the hard work you do. Uh of course, police department, fire department, EMS, um recreation, finances, big job, public
works, we call on you quite often. and we appreciate the the scraping of um the sound of those plows. Um they're they're always there and we appreciate it. I know that every time
after a snowstorm when I wake up on Ohio Avenue, uh that road is clear. So I want to thank all of you. Um of course when I'm clerk uh deputy clerk, manager, deputy manager, uh Mr. Cipek for uh for
all the hard work you do for us to make our community great. So thank YOU for comment. All right. And then close public comment and we'll move on to resolutions.
>> I'd like to move in 18 A through H2. >> Oh, H. Mr. >> Yes. Mr. >> Yes. >> Yes. Mayor B. >> Yes.
>> I I'm going to take the privilege since I is one of the people who appointed him to move 18H2 uh resolution number 170 authorizing a permanent agreement for Kevin P. Molinsky Esquire to serve as municipal manager UPA for an extended 4-year
period with one year additional option. >> Mr. All right, I like the second I wanted people to interview. >> All right, thank you. And I just I I just wanted to set the table here um for council's discussion if there is any
discussion. Um a little bit of background because I know there's been some chatter out there. So I thought I'd just put in the record what how this happened. Um how we got here. In fall 2016, then township manager Richard Carson submitted the letter his letter of resignation to township council
effective January January 17. With no obvious succession the plan in place, council negotiated with the manager to stay on until May 2017 to allow for a national search to take place. Council hired an executive search consultant to run the search and
interview process. And council had its first meeting in November of 2016 and placed advertisements on that ran in a variety of of newspapers and online venues from December 15th to be run until January 15th, 2017. During that period, council received um a number of
resumes and letters of recommendation from across the country. On January 28th, we had a screen interview for eight candidates out of that pool. Few weeks later, we had our final interviews for four candidates. During this time, council asked the consultant to look at the outgoing manager's contract as well
as other similar townships to help guide the creation of a compensation package for successful applicant. By the end of March 2017, after four months of interviews and deliberations, council decided to extend an offer of
employment to Mr. Ninsky. This offer by council was based not only on his two interviews and resume but also letters of recommendation like this one. This one's dated December 28th, 2016. Dear honorable mayor and council town of it is with absolute pleasure that I
recommend Kevin Dwinsky for the position of municipal management. I have worked very closely with Kevin during my tenure as a councilman on township council particularly the years I served as mayor. I've always been impressed by his problem solving skills and attention to detail. Kevin not only possesses the
aptitude needed for this position, he has firsthand experience in township affairs. Having served as township attorney, he is well aware of every possible legal matter that the township council could encounter. From tax appeals to our land use ordinance, Kevin has defended the town well. He has even
been a second voice on many labor relations matters. As having this prior knowledge coupled with his experience as a jurist will save the town a considerable amount of money in legal counseling. As township municipal judge, Kevin is extremely wellversed in the municipal court system and has an
intimate knowledge of the largest division of the township, the police department. As a lifelong resident of the township, Kevin grew up in our parks and participated in our recreation program and is well suited to preside over the daily operations of this town. Without a doubt, I confidently recommend
Kevin for the position. Kevin is honest, ethically responsible, dependable, and incredibly hardworking. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you'd like me to expand on my recommendation. Sincerely, Gregory and J. This contract was formally agreed on the
April 18th meeting, and Kevin took over as township manager on May 1st, 2017. Before Mr. Winsky stepped into the role. I had a candid conversation with him as I had never worked with him during my time as municipal manager. My confidence in Kevin grew and by the end of our
meeting I told him disagreements would happen. That as long as each one of us does what we think is for the best of the township, I can live with those disagreements and I hope you can too. Serving as mayor in 2018 and 19, Kevin was a partner with me when we work together to incorporate some of my goals as mayor. and solar panels outside this
building along with the electric cars for the township are a result of us working together council and manager to further the goals of sustainability. I could go on about the successes we had as a township over the years I've worked with Kevin but I'd like to give my colleagues a chance to discuss the
motion before we vote. So with that we get to anyone else to to debate or discuss Chris or we can call a question up to you. Um, thank you, mayor, for reading that um and giving that background and that
history. Um, in my short time on council, I'm not the youngest council member, but um, I've had the opportunity to work with Mr. Ninsky closely, and he has always been dependable um, available and, um, a tremendous resource in
educating myself and I know many of us here on the ins and outs of what it takes to run a town. So, I just wanted to put that there. >> Anyone else? >> As the youngest, um uh I have only been here two months,
but I have gotten into a nice group with you, meeting with uh the manager the Monday before the meetings to go over everything. There's a lot to learn and a lot to um process when you go through all of these these books having come from politics. um town government is
definitely different than national politics. So this has been quite an experience and um you are from what I've you know worked with you now um you are a wonderful resource and I enjoy working
with you Mr. Okay, Kevin, for the years I worked with you, I want to say thank you. I learned a lot from you. I respect you and residents of this township respect you, too. That's all I hear is
more positive on what you're doing, how you change this township and how you move this township forward. I'm going to thank you for all that. >> Um, and I'll echo what my colleague said. Um, thank you for your guidance and your availability always to answer
any strange questions we might have. Um, but I want to say I think it's important to recognize that we are taxpaying residents as well and I am so happy with the services we receive and the way our town is run as a resident. Um, I I
there's always room for improvement, of course, but I this is a pretty darn good place to live and I'm I'm proud to call it home. >> Thank you. And with that question, >> Miss Farmer,
>> yes. >> Miss Jacio, >> yes. >> Mr. Kaki, >> yes. >> Miss Santos, >> yes. >> Mayor B. >> Yes. Um, our newly named business and economic growth committee met on April
14th. Uh, and I just wanted we discussed some things um like the award ceremony um and possible restaurant week. I wanted to plug two things. First of all, they do have a website uh where you can
view local businesses, local.com. Uh, additionally, they're going to be looking for a new student rep for the 2026 2027 school year. That should be advertised by the end of April with applications due June 1st. So, keep an
eye um on the township website for that. >> Anyone else? this phone. >> Um yes. So uh the Lawrence uh trails and open space um we did not have a formal meeting but we did have a
walk uh this past Saturday along the road canal to path. I was never a committee. Um I still an official there but you know that's in the wrong future but it was a beautiful
opportunity to um to see what is currently there and how it connects with the other um ch um diversity and equity and inclusion. Um we met this past Thursday and had a roundt discussion. We opened it up to members of the public um and it
was a a great opportunity to learn about what was happening in town and um some of the um county events mainly um the next uh planning item is for our Junth celebration which will be June 18th here
at town hall on the front steps. Um the historical um and preservation committee met as well and we had a a lively and robust discussion about the gold house um and the preservation of that. And in
that conversation, we learned that it may be um a good opportunity um in light of what is occurring, you know, the thing the actions that are happening around the Holy House to maybe um have a a community meeting about the historical
homes that are in our community and just educating the public a little bit more about uh the beautiful treasures that we have here in Lawrence Township and in the village of Lawrenceville. So, um, we're looking into that. Um, I
can't tell you that there wasn't a great disappointment about uh what the future of the board house may look like, but I think for most part members of the committee understood that in the 40-year history of the committee um the board of
house being of discussion the last 30 years probably and that there had been opportunities for um changes or uh everything from moving the house to restoring the house to having uh owners
look at how it could be preserved but we understand I should you know the committee in general um as they you know they've spoken out publicly about their concerns so I take it to look at it as an opportunity to educate our community
about the importance of these beautiful homes that we are so fortunate to have here in the northeast and um you know make lemonade I have one. >> Yes, sir. >> Uh the recreation uh department is
holding a townwide yard sale this weekend. So, there's a map on the website uh this Saturday and Sunday from 8 to 2. Um your neighbors will have yard signs and you should go buy their stuff. >> It's a good time because it's very
sustainable. I will say that uh the environmental committee is continuing to look at storm water regulations more than just what we have currently and they're also looking at her field. So I'll keep you
informed. >> Oh, and stream cleanup is coming soon. That's also >> Yes. On that note, um Mr. could you share with us um the activity that's happening on 69 I think you said is that related to uh the exit off of
295 inspection >> the construction by uh US dot >> yeah I think that that great do you know >> they're they're building you know a storm base in there to take on more water
>> yeah it's just um but it's also the area where a wall is going to go up as well. >> So I don't know if there if they are in conjunction with each other, but this is the first part of it. It's just like a storm stormwater basin situation.
>> Thanks. That we'll move on to written communications. There's letter resignation of Jeffrey Johnson from the zoning board. So that means we're going to um we do not have executive session. So,
do I have a motion for adjournment? >> All right. Thank you all. Give me a little bit more coffee in there. >> I need less coffee. I just I just told Peter that you're not allowed to come to the