[laughter] [laughter] [clears throat] >> Mayor and all staff at council now come to order. Thank you all for your patience. Had a little snafu with summertime. And we're starting a little early, but we're all here.
So thank you. Great to see everyone. With that, I will start mayor's welcome. Statement of proper notice. Adequate notice for this meeting of the Lawrence Township Council being held on Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 has been provided to the system of the annual meeting schedule as set council pursuant to section 13. I'm
going to probably need to get that. Said notice was forwarded to the Trentonian three times and the Princeton Packet and it also is on our website. But those [clears throat] three newspapers were given on December 12th, 2025. With that, may we have the invocation? May we carry out our work at this
meeting in a just, honorable, and sincere manner, always bearing in mind our duties to continue to keep Lawrence a wonderful community in which to live. I [laughter] pledge >> I pledge allegiance 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. >> Ms. Barbara, may we have the roll call, please? >> Ms. Barbara? >> Here. >> Mr. Gath? >> Here. >> Mr. Knaefler?
This is here. Mayor Barbara. >> [clears throat] >> Here. We have two special proclamations recognition and presentation of so I will first read a resolution recognizing June as LGBTQ plus pride month. >> [laughter]
>> Whereas the Township of Lawrence is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful community for all residents, employees, businesses, and visitors regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. And whereas the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and
other LGBTQ plus individuals have made significant contributions to social, cultural, civic, economic, and educational fabric of our community, state, and nation. >> [clears throat] >> And whereas the month of June is recognized nationally and internationally as LGBTQ plus pride month commemorating the historic
Stonewall uprisings and honoring the extensive contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals to the fabric of our society, economy, and culture. And whereas the Township of Lawrence recognizes that diversity strengthens our community and that every resident
deserves to live free from discrimination, harassment, and prejudice. And whereas promoting dignity, respect, and equal opportunity for all people helps create a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community for our current and future generations. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the
mayor and Township Council of the Township of Lawrence, County Mercer, State of New Jersey do hereby recognize June 2026 as LGBTQ plus pride month and encourages all residents to celebrate that the diversity that enriches our community. Be it further resolved that the Township
of reaffirms its commitment to equality, inclusion, and respect for all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Be it further [clears throat] resolved that the Township of Lawrence joins communities throughout New Jersey and the nation in honoring the contributions, resilience,
and achievements of the LGBTQ+ individuals and family. Dated June 16th, 2026 and signed by ALL OF COUNCIL. >> [laughter] >> BEFORE I MOVE ON TO THE NEXT UM THE NEXT um proclamation. >> Um I just wanted to take a moment to
reflect on last week's uh Pride Fest. The turnout was really wonderful and despite the heat, uh the energy in our community was genuinely uplifting. I wanted to extend a special thank you to Lawrence Neighbors Together, Lawrence Township Public Schools, and Lawrence Township Police Department for everything they did to make this event a
success. That kind of collaboration is what makes Lawrence work and it's also what makes moments like this possible. When our schools, our neighbors, and our public safety community come together around an event like Pride Fest, it says something about who we are as a township. Inclusion isn't just a value we talk
about here, it's something we demonstrate. I'm proud to represent this community and I look forward to continuing to BUILD ON THAT. >> [applause] [laughter] >> I JUST WANTED TO UM ECHO COUNCILWOMAN Thatcher's sentiments. I
had the opportunity to participate and it was a tremendous learning and I am super proud to be a member of this community here in Lawrence Township that supports uh this our community. So, thank you. >> [applause] [laughter]
>> UM AND I WOULD JUST REMIND EVERYONE THAT THE UH lights in front of Town Hall are lit up in uh Pride colors for the entire month of June as well. >> [applause] >> ALL RIGHT. NOW, I WILL READ THE 2026 LAWRENCE Proclamation declaring the first Friday in June to be National Gun Violence
Awareness Day. This proclamation Proclamation 2026 Lawrence Proclamation declaring first Friday This proclamation declares the first Friday in June to be National Gun Violence Awareness Day Township of Lawrence to honor and remember all victims and survivors of gun violence
and to declare that we as a country must do more to end this public health crisis. Whereas everyday nearly 100 people in the United States are killed by gun violence and more than 200 are shot or wounded with an average of more than 19,000 gun homicides every year. And whereas the people of the United
people in the United States are 26 more times more likely to die by gun homicide than people in other high-income countries and whereas New Jersey has 442 gun deaths every year with the rate of 4.8 deaths per 100,000 people, a crisis
that costs the state 5.3 billion dollars each year, of which 168.9 million is paid by taxpayers. New Jersey has the fourth lowest rate of gun deaths in the United States. And whereas gun homicides and assaults are concentrated in cities with more than half of all gun homicides in the nation
occurring in 42 cities. And whereas cities across the nation, including in Lawrence, are working to end this senseless violence with evidence-based solutions. And whereas protecting public safety and the communities they serve is >> [clears throat] >> mayors' highest responsibilities. And whereas the support of the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens
goes hand-in-hand with keeping guns away from those who are a danger to themselves or others. And whereas mayors, council members, and law enforcement officers, in partnership with local violence intervention activists and resources, know their communities best, are the most familiar with local criminal activity and how to
address it, and are best positioned to understand how to keep their citizens safe. And whereas gun violence prevention is more important than ever as we see gun violence continue to impact communities across the country. And whereas in January 2013 Hadiya Pendleton was tragically shot and
killed at age 15 and on June 5th, 2026 to recognize the 29th birthday Hadiya Pendleton people across the United States will recognize gun violence awareness day and wear orange in tribute to her and other victims of gun violence and loved ones of those victims. And
whereas the idea is was inspired by a group of her friends who asked their classmates to commemorate her life by wearing orange. They chose this color because hunters wear orange to announce themselves to other hunters when in in out in the woods. And orange is a color that symbolizes the value of human life. And whereas anyone can join this
campaign by pledging to wear orange on Friday on June 5th, the first Friday of June 2026 to help raise gun awareness about gun violence and whereas by wearing orange on June 5th, 2026 people across the United States will raise awareness about gun violence and honor the victims honor the lives of gun violence victims
and survivors. Whereas we renew our commitment to reduce gun violence and pledge to do all we can to keep our arms out of the hands of people who should not have access to them and encourage responsible gun ownership to keep our families and communities safe. Now therefore be it resolved that that mayor that I Mayor Christopher Bob
of Town of Florence declare the first Friday of June 5th, 2026 to be National Gun Violence Awareness Day and encourage all citizens to support the local communities in efforts to prevent tragic impacts of gun violence AND SAVE LIVES. >> [applause] [laughter]
>> UM WE HAVE A SPECIAL GUEST. SO I HOPE IT'S all right with council if we move uh Mr. Bob Feller and his uh colleagues from Ewing Lawrence Sewerage Authority to come before us to just speak briefly about the resolution that's before us tonight just to give us a background and to also help the
council both the council and public understand the business about so [clears throat] Welcome Mr. Feller. >> Good evening. >> Yes, please. >> Uh, first of all, I'd like to thank the council for the invitation. Uh, I'm here this evening. Uh, >> [clears throat]
>> the Ewing-Lawrence Sewerage Authority is committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and dependable infrastructure for all of our residents. That is Ewing and Lawrence. The project that we're talking originally about, uh, is a Ewing project. Um,
portions of the existing and Solvent Way pump station and pipeline system are aging and at risk to point where replacement is necessary to ensure reliable service. To address the needs, ELSA is undertaking the following improvements.
Replace existing 75-year-old underground force main sanitary sewer pipes that run parallel to what we call the Gold Run Creek, and two larger, [clears throat] more durable mains. Construct a new pump station
in Ewing Township to replace the current pump station on Solvent Way. This pump station is located in the Cat in the Katzen Katzenbach School property along Solvent Way. Um, >> [laughter]
>> I'm here, uh, seeking Lawrence Township uh, to pass a resolution authorizing town council approval and consent to issue not to exceed 18 million, which is not the cost of the project, uh,
of uh, obligation by ELSA through the New Jersey infrastruct- infrastructure bank financing program. I I need, uh, and I have been dealing uh, to present the project. That was,
uh, April and I mean launch this approval as well and receiving a a resolution for that. I have invited my Els's engineer
uh and attention order Remington Barton and I have invited our bond counsel uh uh Stockwell and they found them in Scotland and uh and and
and that problem uh and and uh here is uh Chris Mywork and uh Victoria Fordeal uh Okay. Uh
what I'm going to do is uh uh Dennis is going to briefly what is the word? I'd like to quote >> I appreciate it. >> But briefly describe the project and and then Chris will I think talk about the financial
>> Yeah, I I think one of the reasons is is that if anyone looks at 18 H uh 3 if you're keeping score at home on the agenda. Um when you see a resolution issuance of the not to exceed $18 million bonded [clears throat] I think some people might go wait,
what's going on here? So, I appreciate you coming out on such short notice and and having your team to lead us through that and so thank you. >> And thank you. >> So, so Bob did describe the project a little bit. It's basically upgrading replacing a pump station and then two
lines portions portions of the road completed with the pathway project and also with some money that the Unity Township had given from the covid money. We had he's a million dollars in a section of it that was in the worst case. The DP had been citing them for
services, forcing and breaks and so forth. So, this project was fully pushed forward. It was pushed for around 18 million. The bids came in very favorably. We got a lot of competition, so currently the two bids that were awarded
were 11.5 million in that range. So, we're looking forward to having construction start probably in September. The fluid environmental permits restrict certain things to happen in the summer months. So, that's probably the target time for us to start. It's probably
about a year for the force main replacement and the sewer line replacement. And then I'll probably about a 15 months for the pump station. As far as the cost, I think most of the cost will be the money we'll see in your rates and warrants because it's got
entirely a a union project. So, you will enlarge the structure. Those costs will be passed on to Ewing to pay the debt service for that. >> Chris. Thank you. Real quick, good evening mayor members of council, members of staff, Boris
Kanchev. I'm Chris Langmuir from McMahon and Associates and McMahon. As stated, long council to the Ewing MUA Sewage Authority. Uh Dennis stole my thunder with the good news. I'll tell you a little bit about the financing. The cost is now 13 to 18 million. As Dennis said, it's probably going to be more around 12 million. It'll be financed through the
New Jersey Infrastructure Bank. The authority's always looking to do good financing as cheaply as possible, and that gives us the best rates. Because it is a union project, the money that gets borrowed will be 75% interest-free, 25% at the AAA rates that the infrastructure
bank borrows at. We don't care about any of that because as Dennis said, this is all paid for by Ewing. So, Lawrence, this shouldn't affect your rates at all. We [clears throat] always come before both of the townships selecting our projects, project what's going on, and then of course the readers had blessing
go forward. But, the important thing out of all this is does not affect Lawrence rates. Um so, it really will have no financial impact on Lawrence. And I'll have to answer any questions I have. >> I think I have one question about timing. Um I'm assuming that you're once
this is if this is approved that you'll go straight to the infrastructure bank knowing that you would have you've already approved this. Is that Is that correct or something? >> That's right. We will adopt a bond bond resolution to authorize the [clears throat] debt that we have both of them on board. And then there's a little bit of a process to get all the approvals from DEP and permits and so
forth to get the project going. Once we get that, we close what they call a construction loan, open this line of credit up to 18 million, close to 12 million probably, so that we can pay for the project. Once it's all done, we get a final cost and then we have to convert it into a long-term payback bonds over 20 to 30 years with a
length rate they have the lowest possible interest rates. >> Thank you. Any questions from council? Mr. Knack. >> It's a Ewing [clears throat] project, I understand that. But, why is SA paying?
>> Say that again? >> Why is SA paying? Why do we have to pay if it's a Ewing project? >> Well, because SA is the is the public entity charged with the sewer improvements for this service area between Ewing and Lawrence. So, anytime we do sewer improvements, it falls
within our parameters to do that work. We are the ones charged with that responsibility and have the expertise and knowledge to do it. And we take the cost and we charge it back to the appropriate entity. >> All right, I said it wrong. If it's a Ewing project, why is Lawrence paying? >> You're not.
>> You're asking for money. >> We're We're asking for a consent to do the project because the Ewing the Elsa boards can put this composed of both Ewing and Lawrence members on the board now. They Okay, my apologies. So, we need the consent from both entities to go
forward. So, as a matter of as a matter of process, but in this case perhaps more courtesy since Lawrence is not paying any of the rates, we always go before each of the townships and ask describe the project and ask for the consent to go forward. But, in this case Lawrence will not be paying for any of
this particular project. >> Okay, so this price tag is only for >> Yeah, correct. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Any other questions from council? >> So, there's no there's no liability for Lawrence even though it's a unit if if the Ewing Lawrence Sewer Authority
>> I I It's a It's an Elsa project. We will be the ones overseeing the project. We'll be the ones managing the project and any liability will be probably indemnified and contractually obligated out, but there will be no liability to to Lawrence unless something really goes
wrong for Elsa. >> Which isn't happening. >> [laughter] >> I I can't even think about it. >> [clears throat] >> It's just lawyers saying to be an absolute insane. I don't understand all that. >> [clears throat] >> I have one quick comment. >> Mr. Mayor.
>> I imagine since this is a joint utility with Ewing and Lawrence both involved, I it would seem to me logically that wherever the work is being done and there's going to be um money applied, I
think both Lawrence and Ewing have to approve by resolution. Is that fair >> That is correct. >> I mean cuz if if Ewing's taking on this project and and they're going to be paying for it, I think Lawrence Township would want to know what's going on and would want to have a vote over at least
approving of the project. And that's a part of this process. So may I ask you 100%? Yes. Yeah. >> All right. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you for coming. >> Thanks for answering questions and coming here. [clears throat] Appreciate it.
>> Um I'm going to move on to public participation. 5-minute limitation. Uh as usual. >> Mr. Mayor, go ahead. >> Um the purpose of the public comment period is for members of the public to inform the governing >> [clears throat] >> This time is an opportunity for a township council to listen and hear to
the public's and to consider what they're hearing in their deliberations. It's not a time for back and forth dialogue. It is going to be difficult for us to give you accurate responses on critical complex issues on the spot. Rather, one can call or email members of council, manager, or clerks for additional information or response on
any issue. I'd like to read two excerpts from the Lower Saucon Township Administrative Code section 10-22, Manner of Addressing Council. A person may address the council upon recognition by the chair. Persons addressing the council shall write down their name and address on the sign-in sheet, step up to the microphone, shall give their name in
an audible tone of voice for the record, and shall have the right to address the council for a limited amount of time noted by the chair. No person having the floor shall be permitted to enter into any discussion either directly or through a member of the council without the permission of the chair. No questions shall be asked of the chair councilperson except
through the chair. And also section 10-23, Decorum at Council Meetings. Any person making any impertinent or slanderous remarks or who shall become boisterous while addressing the council shall forthwith 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, >> Welcome. 5 minutes. >> Um it's my recommendation that we um take a vote on the resolution that was just presented. Um Mark, do you think that that's
appropriate? >> Yeah, you have you have multiple professionals here who sure would love to hear the whole meeting, but >> [laughter] >> be a courtesy to uh >> I mean, I can't sit through this whole thing. >> I think >> You said mention they're not going to
trust us to do any due diligence. Is council all right with the with moving this one item forward? >> [clears throat] >> All right. >> Resolution 216 which is 18H3. >> So, you just need to I think we just need to
motion and then the second. Only needs to be described because you've already just described it. So, I'm going to You have to have a motion before moving 18H3. >> Motion to move 18H3. >> I second. >> Second.
>> Thank you. >> Mr. Primeau? Mr. Primeau? >> Yes. >> Mr. Clary? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kaminski? >> Yes. >> Ms. Linton? >> Yes. >> Mayor Pro Tem? >> Yes. >> Motion carries. All right. I just want to make sure that
you're Thank you, Mr. Kaminski. I appreciate it. Thank you all. With that, 5 minutes public participation. >> Thank you again. Bill Rasmussen. >> My friend, 976 Lawrenceville Road or Lawrence Road. Welcome back at 30. Thank
you. Um, so thank you for acknowledging the Pride Fest and for this resolution. There are some folks who might say, "Oh, both of these things are just kind of performative. What do they really mean? They're just words." saying June
um is acknowledged uh as Pride Month. And our Pride Fest, okay, people got together and had a party, but really what does it matter? And I can tell you the First of all, let me just be clear, those folks who are part of LNT, who have gone to LNT events, could you just
raise your hand? Thank you. And those folks who are part of the DEI committee, could you raise your hand as well? Thank you. And then we have our planning committee for Pride Fest, and some of you key players are here as well. So, you have a lot of folks who are are sitting in the audience
who came together, live across Lawrence, came together with one [clears throat] singular purpose, to make sure that everybody in this township everybody feels welcomed, respected, and known.
And that's not performative. And saying that we have lights out in front of this building is not casual. You're making a statement, and it matters. It makes people feel safe. And just as some of you have already said, that's what this township is all
about, bringing people together. So, I just wanted to clarify um the work that was done on the for Pride Fest, and this resolution matters greatly to a great number of people. Um So, thank you. And the second thing is,
yes, uh Councilwoman Santos talked about the partnership between the police, Lawrence Neighbors Together, um Who's the third person who said And the school district. But I also wanted to acknowledge that um
there was so many staff members here in this building that really worked so hard with some of us trying to organize things that we don't know how to go about those things, and lots of answers to many, many questions. Um
And so, so to also acknowledge all of you and the wonderful staff in this building. But, this is important what you did today. So, THANK YOU SO MUCH. >> [clears throat] >> CHRIS WOLLEY, 17 LANARK DRIVE. I come tonight as a 45-year resident of Lawrence Township. And, uh, I would like
to thank Martha Friend for her leadership, in so many things that we have experienced in Lawrence, uh, over the years. She's truly a gem to the community. Uh, she needs to
be publicly recognized along with all THE OTHERS WHO I HAVE THE PLEASURE OF WORKING WITH HER, AND SHE is a real true warrior. Um, and I also like to just mention how proud I am also, uh, to be part of
Lawrence for so many years. Um, as an Army brat, I never really had a home. So, 45 years in one place is a big deal. Um, and, uh, what happened this week was great. Uh,
and what the council has done tonight is really great. Um, we know from the data that it's going to take a lot of people um to put the community center back in
shape. And um I think we have the people in Florence that can do it. Um I also think that there needs to be an opportunity for um
those people who want to do it to um get together. It's not going to happen organically. There's got to be some way to make that happen. So, I'm just going to offer tonight as a citizen
um that I took the liberty on my own to create a strategic partner interest survey. Anyone who's interested in helping to put that community center back in place and back in shape um and wants to get together and talk about it. Um I got a form. I got a pen.
Fill it out and get back to me. We'll get out to you. Thanks a lot. Appreciate it. >> Thank you, MR. HOLMES. ANYONE ELSE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT? YOU GET A SECOND CHANCE, BUT IT'S 12:23 now. All right. I'm going to close public participation for right now. >> [clears throat]
>> And we will move on to I didn't I didn't 100% close it, so welcome. >> [laughter] >> It is theme council and there and also allowed afterwards >> Welcome, Mr. >> Um William B. Holmes Sr.
the 50-plus resident of Lawrence Township. So, I've been here for a while. I heard all the accolades and kudos given on the great work you've done regarding pride. I I didn't see anything or hear
anything about Juneteenth. >> That's on Thursday. >> It's on Thursday, but I didn't see anything that's recognizable on the outside in the community. So that's an important aspect of American history
and I think it should be portrayed. And I think it should be known throughout the township. So I'd like to see some type of recognition throughout the township. So can we move towards doing that if you
don't do it as I'm speaking, certainly it should be done so that it's actualized in the future from now on. >> We'll be on >> Okay, THANK YOU SO MUCH. >> [laughter] >> SO MR. HOLMES HAS BEEN INFORMED I GUESS
THROUGH A proclamation and then Juneteenth has been declared a national holiday. We on Thursday will be celebrating that. >> Yeah, I don't have >> I'm just saying I didn't see anything >> We generally need a proclamation after Juneteenth. We do have an official
proclamation. And we do have one last thing. So we'll do that. So good. I'm saying I haven't seen anything in the community relating to such. >> [clears throat] >> Understood. >> Okay. >> Thank you. Anyone else first?
Would you like to come up? Spring? I'm good. >> Hello. Joan Rain, G2, Shirley Rain. And I'd like to circle back a moment, a 33-year resident of Lawrence. Proud Trentonian, though, I have to
admit. But anyway, I'm happy to be here, proud to be here, especially I'm joining some of the initiatives that are being undertaken. I just wanted to circle back to our neighborhood center very briefly.
Um and add a brief brief comment. Number one, I see this as a fantastic opportunity. Fantastic opportunity, which has been mentioned, for this township to really affirm some values that are important,
that I think are trying to be affirmed. Um number two, I am very excited about the legacy part of this project. Um I didn't know much. I've been I've attended the public
hearings. I've read the reports of the um and participated in submitting my own opinions. But I am so excited about the legacy part, the idea for creating a museum um to honor
the the roots of this very important initiative. And you're asking for volunteers? I volunteer. I will work on the legacy part. But anyway, thank you. And thank you, council, for committing to such important things. But I really am
excited about this. >> That's good to hear. THANK YOU. >> [laughter] [applause] [clears throat] >> ANYONE ELSE? ANYONE WHO'D LIKE TO SPEAK? AND IF AND IF YOU just moved here less than a year you're still welcome as well.
After All right, with that I am going to close public participation. Someone? Someone twice? Twice. >> Review and revision of the agenda. I believe we have an amendment, Mr. >> I think if you want to do that now or
>> Um Should we do it now and and then >> Whatever you want to do. >> Um let's move it Let's Let's amend it now. So, there's there's a question of of um a description to that. >> Yeah, on the H5 resolution uh >> [clears throat]
[laughter] >> H5 number 218 uh dealing with the approval of the pilot assumption of fire
Jag Princeton Pike Urban Renewal. We received a voluminous application from the applicant 200 and 16 pages long. And we had a presentation uh
the presentation a while ago involving it and the resolution reflects the wrong lots. It's a It's just a clerical error and I read it three times after the meeting. So, the minor We call it de minimis
change is [clears throat] There's only two lots involved, lots two and three. Uh and the other lots uh 6, 18, and 19 are not part of any assignment from the Canvas who's the >> [clears throat] >> owner.
Uh and that is really the the only change in the It's rather lengthy resolution. It does not change the intent of the resolution. It's not a substantive change and that it reflects what the application given to
the township, which I believe you all saw. All saw reflects. So, I just kind of a housekeeping thing that's easier to take care of now than down the road. So, I would ask that that
just simple amendment to uh I can read it if you want. >> Yeah, that would be great and then I'll just have the council member read it. >> Whereas the proposed transaction contemplates transfer of the property by deed of block 3801, lots two and three
to Jack Princeton Pike Urban Renewal LLC with lots 16, 18, and 19 being retained by campus and assignment of all development financial agreement right now obligations to Jack with regard to lots two and three. So,
it's just a uh change in the lot numbers. It doesn't change anything involving the substantive substantive nature of the resolution. >> Okay, thank you, Mr. Sciacca. Um with that, do I have any motion to amend
18H5? >> Move to amend 18H5. >> [laughter] >> Second. >> Thank you. >> [clears throat] >> Mr. Bonner? >> Yes. >> Mr. Leo? >> Yes. >> Mr. Konopka? >> Yes. >> Mr. Sentos? >> Yes. >> Mr. Blavat? >> Yes.
>> Thank you and I'll I'll supply the clerk with the language of the amendment. >> And then and then I have one other question. Do we have a need to go into closed session? >> We do not. >> All right, with that we'll move on to adoption of minutes of
previous meetings. Do I have a motion for 8A? >> Motion for 8A. >> I'll second. >> Second. >> Ms. Farmer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Dignan? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kunak? >> Yes. >> Ms. Santos? >> Yes. >> Mayor Bobbitt?
>> Yes. >> Um nine, awarding and rejecting bids for rehabilitation at 9A. >> I'd like to move 9A number 197, authorizing the awarding of bids to Master Build and Design for rehabilitation at 42 Kilton Court. >> Do I have a second?
>> Second. >> The bid amount is for $21,335 and this is under our affordable housing rehabilitation program. >> Thank you. >> Any questions from council? Any questions from the public? >> Close public participation. >> Ms. Farmer?
>> Yes. >> Mr. Dignan? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kunak? >> Yes. >> [clears throat] >> Ms. Santos? Yes. >> Mayor Bobbitt? >> Yes. >> Do I have a motion for 9B? >> I'd like to move 9B number 198, authorizing the awarding of bids [clears throat] to Unlimited Builders Construction for rehabilitation at 128
Graham Avenue. >> Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Owens? >> This is for a bid amount of $24,650 and again, this is for our affordable housing rehabilitation program. >> Thank you. Any questions from council?
Then any questions from the public? Seeing none. >> Let's vote. >> Ms. Farmer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Dignan? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kunak? >> Yes. >> Ms. Santos? >> Yes. >> Mayor Bobbitt? >> Yes. >> Do I have a motion for 9C? >> I'd like to move 9C number 199, authorizing the awarding of bids to
Silvio Nedelcu Painting and Remodeling for rehabilitation at 47 Court. >> Do I have a second. >> Second. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Owens, >> This is a bid amount of $29,600 and it's for our affordable housing rehabilitation program. >> Any questions from the council?
Any questions from the public? Seeing none, >> Ms. Farmer? >> Yes. >> Ms. Ciclio? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kanakis? >> Yes. >> Ms. Santucci? >> Yes. >> Mayor Barbar? >> Yes. >> I have a motion for 9D. >> Motion 9D, resolution authorizing
awarding of bid 26-03-2026 residential concrete sidewalk improvement program to TC Landscape Construction Group, Inc. >> I'll second. >> Second. >> Mr. Owens, please. >> This is a part of our program, a sidewalk improvement program
for 2026. The amount is $148,818. And this, as you know, is funded by the participants who they are it's placed on their tax bill and they have 5 years to pay it off. Interest-free. So, if you're involved in
the program, it's a pretty good deal because you get a good rate and paid off over a 5-year period of time. >> Yeah, Mark our arguments there. Any questions from council? Any questions from the public? Seeing none,
>> Ms. Farmer? >> Yes. >> Ms. Ciclio? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kanakis? >> Yes. >> Ms. Santucci? >> Yes. >> Mayor Barbar? >> Yes. >> I have a motion for 9E. >> Motion 9E, number 224, authorizing rejection of bid 26-07-2025 NJDOT trust fund improvements, Brentwood
Pike pedestrian safety improvements from Seacoast Construction LLC. >> I'll second. >> Second. >> Mr. Owens, >> The lowest responsible bidder was Seacoast Construction and the amount was $696,651.61. According to our engineers estimate of the project, this
far exceeds it. So, we are seeking it to be rejected in this coming and then we will reformulate a bit. >> Wonderful. Any questions from council? Seeing none, any questions from public? Seeing none, Mr. Hart? >> Mr. Stathis?
>> I'm here. Sorry, Mr. Farmer. >> Yeah, that's all right, please. >> Mr. Stathis? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kanakis? >> Yes. >> Mr. Sinches? >> Yes. >> Mayor Farmer? >> Yes. Introduction of ordinances. Do I have a motion for 10A? >> I move 10A ordinance number 25-19-26,
an ordinance authorizing the acquisition of certain real property on Landover Road for open space purposes. >> Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Mr. Olenski? >> This is the property across the street from the the neighborhood Lawrence Neighborhood Center. It was unoccupied
for a long period of time. In our discussions, uh you gave me the authority to um engage the property owner and let them know that we were interested in what our ideas were. They found that to be very agreeable. [clears throat] We negotiated an amount and Mr. Sitek
along with the property owner's attorney um negotiated the terms to agreement of sale and then we are seeking authorization to um execute that agreement. There are still some contingencies as with any purchase of real estate, contingencies
that need to be satisfied. Um inspections um things like that, but this more formally commits the parties uh legally bound to the terms and conditions of the agreement. >> And Mr. Olenski, just just for clarity, >> Mhm. >> the the title of the ordinance says for
open space purposes. There's no >> So, there's >> desire >> open space fund, but there are there are for pre- uh presentation preservation of historical landmarks and things and that's what that's what we're focusing on. >> I I did not want anyone in the audience to feel that we're not planning to
preserve any take out any existing historical buildings. >> No, sir. >> As we know that can be tricky as we've seen in other parts of the township. So >> That's the name of the fund and it's also the name of of the referendum. That's why it has to be put back. Understood.
>> I just want to put the most part and myself. Yeah. With that it's great. >> [clears throat] >> This farmer >> Yes, if I get also on it. Um, yeah. >> Briefly. >> Yeah. >> [clears throat]
>> We'll have a second reading so you can have a whole prepared speech if you want to. >> But just very excited for the the restoration of that site. As a little girl growing up always wondering about that building and now to
know it's historical value and what it will mean to the township. So I'm very excited. >> Anyone else? All right, next question. Mr. Adelman >> Mr. Farmer >> Yes. >> Mr. Dickman >> Yes. >> Mr. [clears throat] Conacci >> Yes.
>> Mr. Adelman >> Yes. >> Mr. Barone >> Yes. >> Now on to 11. The adoption. >> Yes. >> Uh, we're we're going to keep moving and but I I will you'll be first on my list. >> Okay. >> Like I said, second reading I will you
can have a full speech if you want to. 11A adoption ordinances. >> Ordinance [clears throat] number 2517-26 an ordinance of the township of Florence in Mercer County, New Jersey authorizing the acquisition of certain real property located at 840 Pretty Brook Road, lots
7801, lots 33, 34, and 35 for recreational purposes. >> Second. >> Second. >> Thank you. Mr. Winston >> Yeah, this is as you know, it was put forth for we take it away and now this is for the adoption.
This is a necessary part of the process. We have committed to trying to work out an agreement with the property owner. This is a critical final piece to that piece to the LHT specifically in that section and it's necessary to
provide for pedestrians pedestrian safety. There's just a portion that if we don't get it we're forcing people onto the roadway and so we kind of need this. We're committed to trying to work it out but if necessary we'd have to go through a combination process. Which
we're trying to avoid but regardless this is a necessary first step to allow us to do that. >> Thank you. Any questions for council? Any public testimony? >> Miss Farmer? >> Yes, Mr. Mayor. >> Yes.
>> Mr. Finnegan? >> Yes. >> Miss Santoro? Yes. >> Mayor Bobbin? >> Yes. >> Is there a motion for ordinance 11-3? >> [clears throat] >> I'd like to move ordinance number 25-18-26 and ordinance of the Township Council of Lawrence Township, County of Mercer, State of New Jersey
establishing Lawrence Township Arts Commission. >> Second. >> Thank you. All right. I'll give it to Miss Santoro because I think [clears throat and laughter] it's yours. >> Yes, mine and Councilwoman Farmer's labor of love here. So we're establishing a new committee essentially
for the arts and to uplift the arts within the community. That means music, physical arts, graphic arts, all sorts of things. So we're very excited to get hit the ground running with this and we'll be looking for volunteers to sit on the committee
assuming this passes this evening. >> Thank you, Miss Santoro. >> Yes, if I could add very excited to revive this commission here in Lawrence. There's so much talent in our community and as Councilwoman Santoro mentioned we're interested in the visual,
performing, all of the art forms and uh again, this will be a tremendous contribution not only to our town uh physically, but also economically. The arts are a tremendous um addition to any community [clears throat] and it's a
representation of uh what is happening in our world today. So, I'm very excited to be a part of this of this uh commission. >> I mean, any Anybody else? >> Um >> Any uh comment and testimony from the
public? >> Yes. Uh I think >> Brian, did you come up? >> Yeah, I I believe so, just so everyone >> You got it on the record. >> [laughter] >> Welcome. My name's Fred Foraine. Um
I can talk all the folks who said they've lived in Laurel >> [laughter] >> a long time. But um this is I want to talk on the ordinance of the the the Laurel but
not now. But the Arts Council, I I think that I would like to see the Arts Council um recognize one of the first thing I'd like to see you do is recognize the
Crossing Inn uh because the Crossing Inn had >> [applause] >> Crossing Inn had all the black entertainers back in those days. Um
Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald >> [clears throat] >> and that was right there on um my street, the Crossing Inn. Uh and all [clears throat] of the black entertainers played at Crossing Inn. Little Richard got his start at Crossing Inn.
And so, I I I would like to see the um uh ARCS group recognize uh the Crossing Inn as a historic site. And uh >> [laughter] >> Um
it was also in the Green Book. It was one of the few places in Lawrence Township in the Green Book, which was a which was a historic book that would tell sort of uh black Americans safe places to be. And the Crossing Inn was on the in the Green Book as well. With that, anyone else wish to speak
about this for 4 minutes? >> So, I have a quote that I came across that I thought was just really interesting because uh we're in interesting times now with regards to our uh our country and what's happening in the world. And there was a quote that I came
across from John F. Kennedy that said, "The connection between the heart and progress in government is easily easy to feel, but hard to explain." And I just I I look forward to
in our work being able to address some of the really serious issues good and bad that we're currently facing in our country. No questions. >> Thank you. Please follow the procedure. Anyone else? I'm going to follow up. Ms. Carter?
>> [clears throat] >> Ms. Carter? >> Yes. Yes. >> Ms. Cunningham? >> Yes. >> Ms. Hutchinson? >> Yes. >> Mr. Bobbitt? >> Yes. >> Manager's report. Yeah, I have six items to go through, and I'm just going to go through them quickly. If any of more
stopping [laughter] questions, >> [clears throat] >> please do so. Uh number one, there's going to be a resolution for the designation of 3641 as an area in need of redevelopment. It's planned to be on the agenda for the July Council meeting. It was um
it was an issue that was investigated and approved at the April 20th, 2026 Planning Board meeting and a resolution was approved by the Planning Board on May 4th. Um we're going to take efforts to um notify the community
um both statutorily through our public notice obligations as well as other avenues to make sure everybody's on um everybody is aware of what we'll be doing at this next meeting. Um second item is Nancy Bergen,
Superintendent of Recreation, reported to me that work on improvements to the interior of the Nature Center has begun with painting the of murals on the walls, etc. And there are plans for additional improvements in the future and I look forward to on that. Three, a meeting is scheduled for June
18th to discuss the coordination for the Federal City Road, Olden Road Roundabout and the Federal City Road, Federal Point [clears throat] Traffic Signal projects. Discussions will include timelines, estimated costs, and DOT funding. Officials from Ewing, Lawrence, and
Hopewell will be participating. >> Mr. Wenski, [clears throat] >> Yes, if I can interject. Yes, do you have a location for that meeting? >> I think it's going to happen in Ewing. >> Okay. >> It's it's uh not a public meeting. It's an internal administrative >> Oh, okay. Okay. >> Fourth is Christopher Hart um will be
assuming the role of Chief Financial Officer for Lawrence Township effective July 1st, 2026. Peter Kiriakatis has agreed to stay on for an as yet unconfirmed period of time since our long time employee uh Linda
49 years service to the township, um who served as our supervisor of accounts in our finance department, retired on June 1st, 2026. I want to publicly thank her for her long-term excellent service to our community. We lose someone with vast
institutional knowledge who will be difficult to replace. We posted for and received many applications for the position of auditor account training. That's the new title that would uh take the place of most of the responsibilities included. And we're lucky to have Pete um stick around. He's
trying to retire, we're not letting him. >> [clears throat] >> But we we we value his um commitment to the town making sure he wants to pass off his department in the best way possible. Our public safety director, Christopher Longo, um has advised that the township
expects to receive the final report from CGR within the next several weeks. Chris? Yeah. This is um um As you know, CGR was selected through a competitive RFP process to conduct a comprehensive study evaluating the potential consolidation and/or centralization of
fire and EMS services within Lawrence Township, including recommendations regarding the uh optimal location or locations for the delivery of such services. So, we hope to get that within the next month. And then um if we can make it for the July meeting,
we can uh we can do that, but the principal of CGR also indicated that he would be willing to come and do uh an additional meeting >> Correct. To discuss his findings. Correct? >> Okay. Um finally, um I'll be meeting with our insurance representatives and benefits
professionals to discuss potential alternatives to continued participation in the state health benefits program. As you're aware, municipalities participating in the state uh state health benefits program have experienced significant annual cost increases, including >> [laughter]
>> most recently a 36.25% increase in this past year. Um our employees um experience uh you know, their cost of living increases are being eaten up by these increases as well. We're not alone. Um there's many
uh municipalities that have um opted out and I've been told they are trying to opt back in because the alternative is a very difficult, but I think it's important for us to explore [clears throat] this process. Um thoroughly. Um as I've discussed with you in the past,
Lawrence Township, we have seven labor unions and it's not an easy thing to um get seven labor unions to agree on a completely different health uh benefits uh insurer um because the requirements that we have to meet
um are equal to or better program and that's a very difficult task to achieve. But we're going to go through the process cuz I think it's important because this is on top of that. I mean, and everybody knows that. We There was a seminar last week that uh Tony participated in as well. We
discussed um um alternatives to uh the state uh state health benefits. It's it's a problem we're all experiencing, um but I think we got to go through it instead of um sitting back and letting it continue to spiral. Hopefully, the new administration for
the governor is going to be able to offer some uh relief to us. And that's all. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Saydah. >> Um very very briefly, I just wanted to apprise the council and mayor. Last week, the New Jersey Supreme Court came
out with a unanimous decision uh with regard to OPRA, uh specifically that uh while you all have Lawrence Township governmental uh email accounts,
any any township business you may do on your private account, Gmail account, or whatever, is definitely open. So, I think you probably all knew that, but this is firm from the Supreme Court. And uh
we just have to be cognizant of that. Uh and obviously I would prefer you to do everything on your large township governmental email, but if something you innocently is on your Gmail or whatever account you have, that will be
open. So, just keep that in mind. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Quick support. >> Just a few things I have here. Primary election is over. >> [laughter] >> It's uh
it went smooth. Uh the great county did a great job as they always do. Uh with the clerks, gave me a summary of the official report. I know it's on the website, but some people like paper. I read them. And so, uh also there were
two board applications. I know this summary you'll be reviewing them. Uh if you you will go back and look at the ones cuz I know you got to need to know all of them people have been putting in for. And I just want to do a little
housecleaning uh item with regards on the biggest actual on our attorney when it comes to public notices and also OPRA. Uh we all know last year in June um Governor Murphy put in the new law about
uh public notices. And also with social media and all this stuff. And a lot of that just changed. The law statute changed kind of the same. However, the publication of it, meaning that we now advertise on our
township website. Um probably all all of us was tasked with creating a hyperlink uh to the uh state portal Secretary of State portal along with the
township where we create and we spend 10 months creating all this stuff in the background. We did unique codes to make sure that we are compliant with that law. I don't want us to get blurred between social
media and public notices cuz Facebook, X, and all those other things they are very good to put quick information out, but they're not a legal notice. So, legal notices are on our website. I
am going to change the way our accurate notice reads so that we can put more so people can look uh more at the public notices. The council was also tasked with monthly we do a a monthly uh on the
online news publication, which is Trentonian, and we have that on there. Um where we have to say these are the two links cuz they and we have to do that up until December 31st to get the public more engaged and to look it on
our website cuz that's where a wealth of information is. Clerk's office get a lot of calls about a lot of things, and we have a lot of information on there. Um we have information about like the meeting we just [clears throat] had uh
regarding the housing plan. Um we have all minutes ordinances, resolutions. We are required by law to do that. Uh but the resolution is the official proclamations, bids, they're all there.
Um so, I just wanted to just kind of clear [clears throat] the air. But we do our official notices, we still publish in the online newspaper, which we use the Trentonian. We still put it on the bulletin board.
We still and we are mandated to put it on the website. Um and sometimes if you read the social media and it has a little thing, just please contact us and I can kind of clear the air on that. Okay?
>> I don't know if I saw that on there. >> All right. >> [laughter] >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. >> Um moving on to unfinished business, do we have any? New business, old business? Anyone? All right, Mr. Green. You've been very
patient. Public participation, 3 minutes. [laughter] >> I appreciate you working for us. Thank you, Mr. >> [laughter] >> Uh first I want to thank council for for going through with the um um RFP. Thank you.
Uh the other thing um I wanted uh just give a little background on >> [clears throat] >> the purchase. And thank you for purchasing that the the um the little building on Lodge on on Manor Road. Um
Um that was that was the first neighborhood center. And >> [clears throat] >> when we moved here in 1941, um we moved [clears throat] into a little a little house. Wasn't much bigger than
that little church. And it was 10 of us. Eight children and mom and dad. No running water. The road right in front of that little church was uh was dirt with
in the winter, you know, when when the mud froze, you could put a car in the rut and you needed a driver to go go right on down the end of the road. But the other thing um we didn't have
any electric in that little house. And we got permission from the owner of Well, he he he he represented the Seventh-day Adventist people. Uh my father got
uh permission to run a cable to their meter. They had electric. And so my father ran electric meter uh of cable to the hooked up to their meter. Ran it into the bedroom window.
And we had electric cords running all over the house. >> [laughter] >> We were fortunate that that I mean, the good Lord was with us. Little did I know that years later I would be operating out of that same
little building starting the neighborhood center. So, I just want to give you your little your little background. That that little building means a lot to not just to me, but to my family, too. Thank you.
>> I have a QUESTION NOW. WHO OWNED SO, SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST OWNED IT for that entire period of time? >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. >> And while it was either when it was operated as the first >> Yeah, and and and the family and neighborhood
uh uh used to have uh uh Sunday school on Saturday morning and I attended some of those those Sunday school uh but um yeah, that that um
that building um that little building um served uh served my my family in in more than one way. >> That's wonderful. Thanks for sharing that, Mr. Green. Anyone else before we finish up this meeting?
>> [laughter] [clears throat] >> Uh Jim Cleek, I'm almost as old as Mr. Green, but I haven't been here as long. >> [laughter] >> Only 45 years or something like that, but anyway, I got a couple of things. One, and
when we're talking about >> [clears throat] >> missing uh June 18th, also doesn't seem to be any talk about any celebrations for the 50th
anniversary. Which is right around the corner. Have I missed it? Did I miss something? Is there Well, anyway, I know I'm not supposed to ask questions. I just >> [laughter] >> throw this out. But and I know I only got 2 minutes left. So
218 and 219 here uh it that about payment in lieu of taxes. Uh [clears throat] and that Uh this is the I'm falling my ignorance about the particular the whole the whole
subject about that I presume it has to apply only to the municipality. Not the not the school because they're a separate entity. But I thought that uh
that that that kind of thing was for uh like hospitals and the uh the prep school. I remember when the prep schools used to get just a pittance and there was people had a fit about it and then now they
when it got to where they give a lot, places like that. But these sound like private uh This this is uh uh uh I didn't understand why you would have payment in lieu of taxes for uh
something like that rather than just taxes. >> So I will say two things. Are you >> Yeah, I I I don't expect I know I'm not supposed to ask questions. So so I don't expect answers. >> Well, this is fairly straightforward and and kind of attorney attention magic and
correct me if I'm wrong. But both of these files had already gone through the ordinance process and have been approved. This is a changing of who's going to be sort of in charge of the property and taking care of it. >> Yeah, I'm I'm aware of that. I'm just wondering why it was ever done. >> So, I would say for I know for 31 Chris
>> I know it's I'm too late. >> For 31-31 Chris and Pike, that includes an affordable housing element and so that's the sort of beneficial reason for that. Um there are other things We you mentioned the prep school, they don't pay taxes because they're nonprofit. So, that's a that's a >> That's a good point.
And that's the kind of thing where I figured it would be a hospital or things like that. >> And so >> And I didn't I didn't understand why 31-31, affordable housing or not, still >> [clears throat] >> It's >> I wish you had I wish you had come to the presentation. >> No, no, I I just wish you had come to
the presentation cuz you would have had a a more full explanation than I could give now cuz they had those three and others there as well. So, and I don't know if if >> Well, I >> You wanted to add a few things or >> Just briefly >> Yeah, we talked about this here. >> That was
Those properties were deemed um areas in need of redevelopment and a full hearing was held. Uh there were there was testimony on it and the council did pass the uh
resolutions unanimously and this this is a process that the legislature has put into effect for every municipality in the state of New Jersey and we take advantage of it to promote
redevelopment and to promote use of some of our buildings that are getting older and uh have been vacant. That specifically with regard to that 31-31, this regard [clears throat] to
uh, the Berkshire, that's actually a very old, uh, pilot. So, they have a few years left on it and that's that's it's here because of a change in ownership. Uh, there's no real major effect. It's just uh at three parks ridge.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. >> Anyone else for public participation? So, now we're past public participation, we're on the resolutions. Um, we've already uh voted on 18 H 3. >> I'd like to move 18 A through 18 H 2 and
18 H 4 through 18 H 9. >> Got a second. [clears throat] >> Second. >> Mr. Farmer? >> Mr. Farmer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Dean? >> Yes. >> Mr. Knape? >> Yes. >> Mr. Santini? >> Yes. >> Mr. Bob?
>> Yes. >> All resolutions and nays on the floor. Mr. Powell, Mr. Quick's question. Um, Mr. Farmer, were you on the 250 committee or as mayor last year or
>> Yes, I was involved with some of the planning. I know the first event that is going to occur is around July July 4th is when a lot of the events are starting are kicking off. And again, with our fireworks, we're doing some extra things like the reading of the Declaration of
Independence, having a re-enactor, and some additional add-ons for our celebration this year. And that's with the Lawrence Historical Society. >> Joint with the township. >> I knew about the fireworks, but I didn't
know to tell the people cuz I know down in Trenton, they had the reading of >> Yes, we'll be doing the reading also. >> Because a lot of >> people I never realized >> [laughter]
>> that how much there was to the full decoration. >> Yeah. So, there there are additional events and perhaps we can assist the town with the historical society in publicizing some of the events that they're hosting that are
featured jointly with the township. So, um maybe we can do a better job of that. We can do something like that. But, I'm sure it's going to be on social media cuz I've seen it. >> With that, I will start council initiatives and ladies and gentlemen, do you have anything?
>> Um just that on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. the uh the Diversity and Inclusion Committee will be hosting a June 10th celebration and it's our third celebration. So, we will have the the flag will be there and we will be celebrating, recognizing the
national holiday. Okay, I can take that off. >> You can always [clears throat] come back to me. >> You're more than welcome. >> You moved Ms. Santos. >> Uh yes, so on June 9th, the Health Advisory Board met. Um one thing I wanted to share is we were awarded a rural health grant
which is going to expand their efforts in the rural parts of town and these are things like education events, blood pressure readings. Um this is an effort to support migrant workers and the homebound and um and these are more rural parts of town. So, that was good to hear. Um
Growth and Redevelopment also met on June 9th and um just wanted to share that we received seven applications for student liaison which is great. Yeah. So, they'll be holding interviews at the end of the month. >> Business and Economic Development
>> All right, yes, Business and Economic Development. Thank you. I didn't change the time. >> Mr. Hackney? >> Sure. Um the Trails Committee met on June 3rd. We had a presentation from Matt Sakowski, the Mercer County Planner. We He went over uh three large plan
projects that were going through Lawrence. It was a really great presentation with lots of uh good information. And last week we had our Master Plan meeting. That was very well attended and there was lots of great dialogue. And Jim brought up the fireworks.
All [laughter] right, July 1st, uh Ben Franklin will be reading the uh Declaration and there will be food trucks and ice cream and fireworks. >> And live music. >> Live music and glow sticks or glow necklaces to uh support fireworks. >> Thank you.
>> And I'll say uh on our Departmental Green Bicycling Committee, we are uh members are still working on a white paper about turf fields as well as they are in conversation with the Watershed about potential improved stormwater uh
regulation. One of the great things is that they have been in contact with our municipal engineer and talking about what issues he sees on a sort of daily basis and and trying to navigate what makes sense for Lawrence, not just sort of the local but the overall.
I social Um so they're working together, which is wonderful. So, um with that, um we'll move into executive session. >> Motion to adjourn? >> [laughter] >> Thank you all. >> [laughter] >> Yes.