Okay, good evening everyone. Welcome to the February I'm sorry, the April 7th, 2020. We had a long meeting in there. Uh the April 7th uh 2026 meeting of the Maplewood Township Committee. Sorry for the delay. We had some legal matters to
address inside. Um, we're going to I'm going to read the open the statement and then we will start. Um, and when we get to the salute to the flag, we'll also have a moment of silence and I'll mention that at that time. Pursuant to
section 5, chapter 231, public laws 1975. This is to state for the record that adequate notice of this meeting has been provided to the public by posting and maintaining the annual notice of regular meetings on the bulletin board of the municipal building by mailing the annual notice of regular meetings for 2026 to the news record and star ledger
in December 2025 and by filing said notice in the office of the township clerk. >> Mr. Adams >> here Collins Cing >> here. Mr. Davis >> present. >> Merman >> here. >> Mayor Duca >> here. Whereas chapter 231, public laws
1975, commonly known as the open public meetings act, requires that all meetings of public bodies be open to the public. And whereas section 7A provides that the governing body has the discretion to permit, prohibit or regulate the act of participation the public in any meeting
and whereas desire the governing body to comply with the provision this act same time and conduct its business in an orderly and expeditious manner. Now therefore be resolved by the township committee, township of Mapwood that does hereby prohibit except as set forth in
the formal agenda. Active participation in deliberations of the governing body by the public except as otherwise prescribed by law does limit the public to the observations of the actions and discussions of the governing body at all of its regular and special meetings. >> So moved.
>> Second. >> Madams, >> yes. >> Miss Collins Calding, >> yes. >> Mr. Daffis, >> yes. >> M. Herman. >> Yes. >> Mayor Duca. >> Yes. Thank you. We're going to have a moment of silence tonight for Emily H. Bivbons. It's a longtime Maplewood
resident who passed away recently. She was employed by the Maplewood Library for 10 years. Emily and her husband Charlie were enthusiastic Maplewood volunteers for much of their lives. So, we will do the salute to the American flag. And please remain standing for a
moment of silence for Emily Bibbons. Algian >> 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.
>> And a moment of silence for Emily Bibbons. >> Thank you. Thanks for coming out tonight. We have some special presentations and proclamations. We're going to do a proclamation for Autism Acceptance Month, uh an ArabAmerican Heritage
Month, and CASA of Essex County proclamation. We then will have public comments on agenda items. We'll have our monthly board of health meeting. And we have an ordinance on final passage for fees for the pool. We have an ordinance on final
passage for a bond for Deart Park, an ordinance um establishing an accounting position in the finance office and um then we have an introduction of an ordinance on permits related to uh uh
consumption in public areas and then outdoor dining and lastly an ordinance on a cap bank. So, we will be introducing those ordinances. The next up is administrative reports and then we
have the introduction of the 2026 budget. Uh, and that'll take a while. We have a few statements and a few explanations. We'll have reports from elected officials, um, administrative reports and then discussion items. We'll be talking about some changes to zoning,
uh volunteer incentives at the pool, uh a uh prohibiting uh declared candidates from appearing on promotional videos of the township within 45 days of the election. We're going to be removing the cannabis ordinance, possible zoning
changes. We won't be discussing that tonight. We then have our consent agenda and then we'll have our second public comment period which is on any subject matter and then we will adjourn. So at this point I'm going to ask Deputy Mayor
Herman if she would um go down to the podium and invite folks up for the Autism Acceptance Month proclamation. >> Thank you. Please join me at the podium for those who are here for the Autism Acceptance Month proclamation.
It's on now. >> Mayor and members of the township committee, I want to welcome my friends to the podium. We have um member of our all access committee Mary Beth who helped with the proclamation and her family and we have
the owners of words one of our community small businesses with their family and we have some other individuals who have joined us. Thank you. I'm going to start reading the proclamation and then I'd like for um those who would like to join
and also read parts of it. So my glasses. So this is a proclamation for autism acceptance month. Whereas approximately 1 in 29 children in New Jersey and 1 in
31 nationally are diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum according to the CDC. And whereas autism is a difference in brain development that impacts how people learn, communicate, interact, and behave and results in a spectrum of
abilities and challenges. And whereas misconceptions persist regarding individuals on the autism spectrum, including long-standing gender biases that have contributed to the underdiagnosis of girls and women.
And um here whereas campaigns to recognize autism awareness have been advocated for by the Autism Society of America, Autism New Jersey, and the United Nations for
decades, in recent years, advocates have emphasized that awareness alone is not enough and that true inclusion requires acceptance, leading to the adoption of Autism Acceptance Month to reflect the importance of embracing ing and including the whole of the spectrum.
>> You want to read the next one? >> And whereas our understanding of autism continues to evolve from how it is represented in media to how individuals identify whether as autistic persons or persons with autism, reflecting a
broader commitment to the diversity within the autism community. >> Would you like to read? >> Yeah. Um, actually I would Okay, thank you. >> Right here. Whereas the Autism Society of America's 2026 theme of celebrating differences encourages our community to
recognize the value and value neurodiversity, affirming that the varied ways individuals think, communicate, and experience the world strengthen our shared community. And >> Jonah, do you want to read or you want
to read? >> Um, it's right here. Whereas >> whereas the township of Maplewood strives to be a community that does not ignore differences, but instead embraces them, fostering an environment where all people, regardless of ability or experience, belong and are welcomed,
respected, and supported. And whereas municipal governments have a role to play in ensuring autism friendly law, law enforcement agencies, sports and recreation opportunities, and housing to promote safety, inclusion, and meaningful
community participation for individuals with autism. >> I have one last for you. Whereas as Maplewoodians, we are called to move beyond tolerance to practice acceptance and to extend grace, understanding, and inclusion to all.
Now therefore, be it proclaimed that I, Malia Herman, Deputy Mayor of the Township of Maplewood, on behalf of Mayor Vic Duca and the rest of the township committee, do hereby proclaim April as Autism Acceptance Month in
Maplewood, and encourage residents, businesses, community members to celebrate the differences, promote inclusion, and continue building a community where everyone is valued and has the opport opportunity to thrive.
I want to thank you guys for coming tonight. This is important. Um, visibility is important and I'm so happy that you were there. I want to invite if anyone wants to share any other words,
>> if you want to say anything. The one thing I just would like to say is that one of the things we have is a nonforprofit that focuses on working with um the staff at and the professionals who work in group homes for people with autism and other intellectual disabilities. We get to
hold this once in a while at the Maplewood Library. In fact, we were using the Victor Luca room on um on Thursday for this and may and when may you know when Nancy Adams was Mayor Adams, she came and visited us and actually spoke to the group which is a very important group of people who
support you know these uh adults uh uh who live in group homes. Maplewood is a home to many different group homes and we really thank and value the work that Maplewood does in that space. So, thank you. >> Thank you. Sure. As a uh I'm I'm also the chair of
the Autism Science Foundation and we're moving to having a greater understanding and appreciation of profound autism and we have a few individuals here today who meet that description and we're grateful to you for including them in this proclamation day. >> Absolutely. We're so honored to have you
all here. >> Can we take a photo together? >> Sure. >> That's all of us here. >> Let's go down short. Johnclamation. >> We got to get the short people like us. >> Oh, great. >> Yes.
Thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> Yeah, that's his name. Okay, we have a resolution. I'm sorry. Proclamation uh ArabAmerican Heritage Month by Committee Adams. >> Thank you, Mayor.
This is for National ArabAmerican Heritage Month. Whereas for over a century, ArabAmericans have made valuable contributions to virtually every aspect of American society in medicine, law, business, education,
technology, government, military service, and culture. And whereas since 2017, National ArabAmerican Heritage Month has been observed each April to recognize and celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of
Arabameans. And whereas there are nearly 3.5 million ArabAmericans in the United States according to the ArabAmerican Institute and New Jersey has one of the highest concentrations of ArabAmericans in the
country with over 112,000 residents identifying as Arab, which is about 1.2% of the state's population. And whereas the 2026 theme for ArabAmerican Heritage Month, many voices, one community,
reflects the richness and diversity of ArabAmerican identities while emphasizing the shared values, experiences, and unity that strengthen our community as a whole. And whereas despite these contributions, the
ArabAmerican community has historically faced misconceptions, stereotypes, and prejudice, underscoring the continued importance of awareness, understanding, and inclusion. Now therefore, I, Nancy Adams, township committee woman from
Maplewood, and on behalf of Mayor Vica and the rest of the township committee, do hereby proclaim April 2026 as ArabAmerican Heritage Month in the township of Maplewood, and encourage all residents to learn more about
ArabAmerican history and heritage, to celebrate the diversity within our community, and to take this opportunity to engage with and appreciate the many voices that together form our wonderful shared community. Thank you.
>> Thank you. And lastly, we have a proclamation uh CASA of Essex County, and that's going to be Committee Woman Collins Colding. >> Thank you, Mayor. Uh this is especially u special to me. I was a foster mother
of 20 children and for about 15 years and I worked with CASA people all the time advocating for children and I adopted my last two children out of DCF. So this is really
special for me. So thank you for having me do this. So I'm going to be reading today the proclamation of CASA of SS County. Whereas courtapp appointed special advocates kasa of Essex County
was founded in 1986 as the first kasa program in New Jersey. Pioneering a model in which trained volunteers advocates for children in foster care due to abuse, neglect or
abandonment. And whereas CASA Sex works to ensure that all that every child's voice is heard in court and that each child receives the services and support needed
to thrive to thrive and find a safe permanent home. And whereas its volunteers, ordinary citizens doing extraordinary, extraordinary work, have stood beside thousands of children across Essex County, providing
stability, compassion, and advocacy during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Whereas Kasa SX leadership and commitment have strengthened the justice system, inspired the creation of Kasa of New
Jersey and set a lasting standard for communitydriven children advocacy and care. And whereas the township of Maplewood recognizes the volunteers, staff, and partners whose deducation
continues to make a meaningful difference for SS counties and its most vulnerable youth. Now therefore, I, Jane Collins Coding, township committee woman, on behalf of the Maplewood Township
Committee, do hereby recognize commend CASA of Essex County for its unwavering service to children and family throughout our community. And furthermore, the Township of Maplewood encourages residents in interested in
supporting this mission to learn more and begin to the volunteer process by visiting ww.casax.org/volunteer or contacting info@casax.org. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. Um, we're now going to go for our p
first public comment period on agenda items only. Is there anyone in the room who would like to speak on an agenda item? Seeing no one, we'll go to uh Zoom. Is there anyone on Zoom who'd like to speak on an agenda item? >> If any members of the public joining on
Zoom would like to speak on any agenda item, please raise your hand. I see no hands. Mayor, >> thank you. We will close that first public comment period. We do have a second one later on on any subject. Uh we'll now move into our board of health
meeting. Thank you, mayor. I'll read the opening statement. Pursuant to section 5, chapter 231 of public laws of New Jersey. This is to state for the record that adequate notice of this meeting has been provided to the public by posting and maintaining the annual notice of regular meetings on the bulletin board
of the municipal building by mailing the annual notice of regular meetings for 2026 to the news record and star ledger in December 2025 and by filing said notice in the office of the township clerk. >> Miss Adams >> here. Mollinsing.
>> Yes. Mayor Duca >> here. >> Surman >> here. >> Mr. Davis >> present. Whereas chapter 231 public laws 1975 commonly known as the open public meetings act requires all meetings of public bodies be open to the public and
whereas section 7 provides that the board of health has a discretion to permit prohibit regulate the act of participation of the public at any meeting and whereas is the desire of the Maplewood Board of Health to comply with the provision this act same time to
conduct its business in an orderly and expeditious manner. Now therefore be it resolved by the Maplewood Board of Health, Township of Mapwood, that it does hereby prohibit except to set forth in the formal agenda active participation in the deliberations of the board of health by the public except
as otherwise described by law does limit the public to the observation of the actions and discussions of the board of health at all of its regular and special meetings. >> Moved. >> Second. >> Miss Adams. >> Yes. >> M. Collins Cing. >> Yes. >> Mayor Duca. Yes,
>> Herman. >> Yes, >> Mr. Daffis. >> Yes. I move the approval of our last board of health meeting minutes on March 3rd. >> Second. >> Adams. >> Yes. >> M. Collins Golding. >> Yes. >> Mayor Duca. >> Yes. >> Herman. >> Yes. >> Mr. Davis.
>> Yes. Thank you, Clerk Fritzen. And we will turn it over to our health officer. Good evening and welcome, health officer Davenport. >> Good evening, everyone. I'll move on to the first slide where I am. So happy to announce that the Maplewood Health Department has now
moved into the new building of 129 Bdon Avenue as the Maplewood Health Department and Community Support Center. So we are so excited to be in this new space um and really just show the commitment of the Township of Maplewood to uh the health of the community and
public health in general. What we'll be offering there is just an expansion of our health screenings, uh clinics, both rabies, um vaccinations for dogs and cats as well as for vaccinations for uh children and adults, um and free summer meals for kids. Just
a few things that we are going to hopefully expand um to provide to more people in the future. We look forward to partnering with all of these people. Look at that. on um commu on April 25th, Saturday. Please be at the heart center uh the heart park
for the community health fair. It is a uh two-ton first time that we're doing it this year and we'd like to thank all of our partners. Uh we have over uh 40 partners and it keeps increasing. So people just want to be at our event and we will have um a really great time. We'll have
health screenings, mammogram screenings will also be available from University Hospital. um stroke and risk assessments, glucose screening and um ed nutrition education and blood pressure screenings as well. There'll be free food and activities. Um there will also
be um a sensory activation vehicle uh provided through the South Orange Police Department um in recognition of autism acceptance at this event. There will also be I just want to highlight the Maplewood Police Department and their collaboration with Easy Ride for the
free bike rodeo for children. So, it's free bike lessons for kids ages five and up. And um you could just scan the QR code to register. And just want to say thank you to um Department of Community Services for allowing us to use that space um for the parking lot and uh the
basketball court for uh the bicycle rodeo, which will be great fun. Thank you. Um, University Hospital also provided us with a QR code if you'd like to register for the u mimography uh free services that will be at the health fair
on April 25th. So, hope people will register. On the next slide, we have our nursing and health screening screenings update. Just to let you know that in April, our uh public health nurse, Susette, is going to be at the Baird Community
Center on April 10th. She'll be at the Maplewood Senior Center for our seniors on April 14th from 10 to 12 and she'll be uh providing health screenings at the Maplewood Senior Citizens Residents on April 17th. She does these uh screenings on a rotation every month. So hope
people will join us there for uh blood pressure, cholesterol screenings, um hemoglobin screenings, and glucose screenings as well. to give you an update on our uh RSV, influenza, COVID 19, all of our respiratory diseases. We are um gladly
saying that we are coming out of that season. While um some people are uh still experiencing some colds um and possibly allergies, our CO 19, influenza, and RSV cases are decreasing. Onto our next slide. For the month of
March, our nurse um investigated uh eight cases. um she provided u 20 health screenings to our senior citizens and to our employee wellness day which we had last Thursday. We had 22 health screenings for our employees and 42
attendees for our employee wellness day. And for that, I'd like to say thank you to um Robert with Johnson Barnabas who provided the health screenings as well as to um all of the other uh partners that we had like MHA as well as the Essex County cosmetology group that also
provided um some skin treatment for our employees and um to a local um massage center that also provided some wellness for our employees too. Um the number of schools she audited and reodited were uh 12 and the number of
students audited for immunizations was 649. Moving on to our environmental health update. Uh this is the data for February and March. So um our health inspector Mickens um inspected the 27 restaurant
inspections and did some follow-up reinspections. Um he also inspected some childcare centers and addressed some complaints and provided some notice of violations. Just to note, those two animal bites and bat exposures are a
culmination of cases from January to March. Moving on to our animal control update, uh we had about 20 total cases and u most of them were wildlife. I do want to mention that uh when people get their
license for their dogs and cats, uh it does help to pay for all of these support services like taking care of strays, the enforcement, the bat bites, the testing. So, we really do appreciate when everyone does get their dog and cat license because it really does help the whole community. And just to let you
know, as of April 7th, we have 591 dogs licensed and 85 cats. Um, at the end of December of last year, we had 796 dogs and 127 cats. So, please encourage your uh neighbors to please get their dog and
cat license so we can really continue to provide good services to all those in need. One of the things that was mentioned at the last meeting was um questions about wild animals. So, we just wanted to provide some information. This is our website below the raccoon um where you can find information on
wildlife. So on the next slide, here's phone numbers for the D or the Department of Environmental Protection if you have any questions. It's a 247 uh hotline and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for sick or dead domestic birds. As you might have heard um
recently in Verona, they had a case of um lots of dead geese in one of their parks. Um, so they're being um they're doing an investigation on what the cause of that might be, but we are in um suspecting that it's um aven flu for those. So if anyone sees any sick or
dead domestic birds, please do not touch them and just contact uh that phone number for more information. Moving on to our social services and mental health. This is for the month of March. Our total number of cases is 37. This is a an increase from where we have
been which is a good thing and you know something we are we're closely monitoring. We are getting um we're working more closely with our school district and that's been a really good thing. Um they've been calling us, referring to us, asking us for for
guidance and advice for on on cases and we are happy to oblige and and just really happy for that partnership that has grown over the years. Um then we had five co-responses, 21 follow-ups because some cases just need a little bit more um assistance and then
um walk-ins and other calls were 11. So we're keeping busy with the crisis social workers. So I want to thank Martha and Dina for that. Uh moving on to uh we always like to emphasize our partnership with CSPJ um who will be presenting next month. It's already been
another year of their grant uh program. So, uh, they'll be presenting next month on their services for homeless outreach and engagement, but they also provide, as always, on Saturdays at the, um, library at Hilton Branch Library at from 11 to 1, uh, free social services and
assistance for online help. Lastly, we always end with the make the right call uh, banner just to let people know that these services are available 247. And that is the end of my presentation. Thank you.
Are there any questions for our health officer from the township committee? >> How'd you like your new digs? >> Love it. >> Yeah. Congratulations on the move. We're really excited about what we can do there um to continue providing
substantial community mutual aid. >> Yes. >> So, I'm really really pleased about that. Um, I just want to underscore that some of the uh, if we can go back to the slide that shows the um, the free social services assistance on Saturdays at the
Hilton branch of our library. >> I want to just uh, highlight a couple of things there that I think people may not be aware of. Anyway, it doesn't matter. Um, we make this available to uh, the public on our website. We publish the report that you
give each month. >> Um yeah, that's the slide right there. Thank you, whoever is doing that, Amari or or Mr. Administrator over there. Thank you. >> Okay, so um you know, there's a lot of assistance available. There's uh rental
and utility assistance, uh documentation assistance, um birth certificates, you know, all kinds of things, social security cards, legal aid assistance. Um I can tell you from my work, my statewide work, there is millions and millions of dollars in
utility assistance right now that is not being tapped. And you'd be surprised, it's not only available to very low or lowincome households, it's also available to middle and moderate income households. So many folks in Maplewood who might be experiencing, you know,
some utility um insecurity should reach out uh and and find out about this because there's a lot of money that is available that is not being used. The federal government would love to take that money back and use it for other
inappropriate purposes. Um, and there's some mental health information which I think is really important to also underscore because uh, as you've said before, reported before, Health Officer Davenport, uh, we are experiencing a mental health crisis,
especially among our uh, young adults. So, we really want people to get that information and we provide the information in a welcoming and discreet manner for those who seek it. Right. confidential and also you know you mentioned young adults but I also want to emphasize it's also there for their
caregivers as well. We really emphasize the family unit and dynamic. So uh we really want everyone to know that these services are available to everyone. >> Terrific. So I'm going to invite the public now to address the board of health. Is there anyone who's here present who would like to do so?
Come on up. Welcome Mr. Huer. I don't need to tell you the process. You know it. David Huber 26 Nelson Place and before I talk about what I came here to talk about the governor's budget for 26 cuts money to CASA and it's below the state typical
contribution of a third so I would urge you to use your platform CASA association is advocating a return to 4.175 million and uh it's a public health issue so I feel if you can use your platform to get that money back in the budget you do an enormous amount of
good I'm actually here in my role as one of the members of the Prospect Presbyterian Church mental health ministry. And um this was an outgrowth of a sliding scale counseling service run by a man named Reverend Ross Warfield who besides being a Presbyterian minister was also a
licensed clinical social worker and did sliding scale mental health counseling for years at the church and he retired and he left us a small pot of money and we have done a couple informational sessions. We've offered caregiver relief services to members of the congregation,
but we are eager to partner with the board of health and with Mr. Davenport on any issue. And I just wanted you to be aware of that. We have uh four or five dedicated volunteers, four or five, you know, people who are willing to help with different issues, variety of
expertises. We have places to meet and we have a small amount of money we can contribute. So, I just want you to be aware. >> That's terrific. Thank you. >> Thank you for sharing that very important resource at this moment in time. Maybe we can include that when we uh send out information about all of
these resources that are available and put it on our website as well. Any other member of the public here live? Okay, seeing none, u Mr. Wary, do we have anyone online who would like to address the the board of health?
>> If anyone on Zoom would like to address the board of health, please raise your hand. I see no hands. >> Okay. No, no further discussion from the public. I move that we adjourn. >> I just have I just wanted to just raise one thing. Um it's Friday. I am speaking
at Eliminate Tobacco Use Summit. Um and this is really an invitation that we got because in 2012 we were one of the first municipalities to ban smoking in public parks >> and public buildings. And then we
followed it up last year with the no smoking at outdoor cafe. So, uh, I'll be relaying those stories. >> That's great. Where is this being held? >> Uh, Brookdale College. >> Wonderful. Anything else? Any more comments,
remarks, notices? All right, that's a wrap. Then I move that we adjourn and meet again on May 5th. >> Second. >> Mr. Adams, >> yes. >> Collins Cing, >> yes. Mayor Duca. >> Yes. >> M. Herman. >> Yes. >> Mr. Daffis.
>> Yes. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> And turning it back over to you mayor. >> We have an ordinance on final passage. >> Yes, Mayor. >> Ordinance on final passage. Ordinance number 3188-26
is an ordinance to amend chapter 123 of the code of the township of Mapwood entitled fees with respect to the municipal pool. This ordinance will amend membership fees for the Maplewood community pool.
This this ordinance has been published on the I'm sorry, has been published on the township website. Copies posted on the bulletin board in the municipal building and copies made available to the general public in accordance with the law. Is there anyone who would like to speak on this ordinance dealing with
fees of the pool? Seeing no one, is there anyone online? >> Anyone joining on Zoom would like to speak on this ordinance, please raise your hand. I see no hands. >> Seeing no one, we will close the hearing. And can we get a motion? Deputy mayor.
>> I move this ordinance to be adopted as a whole and the clerk be directed to post the same as a past ordinance on the township's website and town hall bulletin board according to the law. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> No. >> Please call the role. >> Miss Adams? >> Yes.
>> Miss Collins Cing? >> Yes. >> Mr. Daffis? >> Yes. >> Thurman? Yes, Mayor Duca. >> Yes. Thank you. Um, and we have another ordinance on final. >> Uh, yes, Mayor. It's bond ordinance
3189-26. Bond ordinance providing for the Dehort Park rehabilitation project in and by the township of Mapwood in the county of Essex, New Jersey, appropriating $3,150,000
therefore and authorizing the issuance of $3 million in bonds or notes of the township to finance part of the cost thereof. This ordinance appropriates $3,150,000 for the Dehart Park rehabilitation
project and authorizes the issuance of $3 million in bonds or notes to finance part of the cost thereof. >> Thank you. This ordinance has been published copies po on the township website, copies posted on the bulletin board in the municipal building, and
copies made available to the general public in accordance with the law. Is there anyone in the room who'd like to speak on this ordinance? >> Seeing no one, is there anyone online? >> Anyone joining on Zoom would like to speak on this ordinance, please raise your hand?
>> I see no hands. >> Thank you. Before I ask for an introduction, Mr. Weary, could you um uh talk about the uh maintenance and management plan that was distributed, the draft plan that was distributed last night, and any other information that
you have about uh the requests from the township committee about more information on how it's going to be maintained and u managed going forward? >> Sure. >> The cost. >> Thank you, mayor. circulated to the township committee was a draft plan from
the uh professionals that are designing this field with information on the maintenance and the management. So the maintenance portion of it's a a detailed report identifying specific actions such as aeration um overseeding watering that
will need to be undertaken to ensure that the field itself performs at a high level given the amount of play that we have on it. And the management report is a report that identifies usage and lining guidance um and how to rotate the fields through uh proper lining and
proper usage so that we can maintain a high level of play and that includes resting some portions of the field at certain times and that was also anticipated in the design and that there's multiple playing areas now on this field. The the report like I said it's still in a draft form. It is
currently being reviewed by the township engineer. our uh superintendent of public works and our director of community services and we'll work with our professional to finalize that. I welcome any comment from the township committee um directly to me if if you
have any input on that or looking for some more information on that. The professional is uh also working on a drainage report that was requested uh by the public and the township committee that will look at uh some peak runoff volumes and and discharge. We've made a
commitment uh that the field will result in no greater increase to runoff uh into the storm water system and we want to show that through an analysis performed by our professionals and and that will be provided to you. Separate from uh these reports, we've also provided on
request information about the what we expect to be the annual maintenance costs for the field. Uh we have our professionals put together based on these uh the maintenance plan what they expect our annual costs will be. Uh
total they expect it to be around $75,000 and that's for the watering, aation, seating. Some of those things we currently do in house but you know we may um choose to contract that out with the new field. Some of those are also costs that we already incur. So, we
already incur costs for watering, though the watering plan may result in higher costs for watering. We already do um fertilizing and and seeding and aeration, though uh the new field will likely require some more of that than uh what we're currently doing. And so, that
information has been circulated as well. >> Okay. >> Any questions for Mr. >> Yes, I have several questions. >> Thanks. >> So, I'm concerned about this. Um, we've been talking about having the maintenance plan for this field, a
realistic maintenance plan for this field, um, for quite some time, right? And we recognize the, uh, the timeline here for the bond. Um, and I appreciate that. So, the maintenance plan that we got last
night, which is voluminous at 10 p.m., we we have not it has not been assessed or evaluated by DPW or community services yet. Correct. >> That's in process now. >> That's in process now, but we have to
take this vote tonight, right? >> Well, it it is on the agenda for vote tonight. Yeah, >> sure. Um, is this a supermajority vote tonight for the bond? >> It's a question from my the attorney, but yes, she has relayed to us that it is required of a super majority.
>> Okay. So, um, and you just relayed some new information we have not received by email or anywhere in writing, which is that the estimated estimated cost of this annual uh, maintenance of this improved field will be in the uh,
neighborhood of $75,000. Have we appropriated that in the uh, budget? we're about to introduce. >> We've appropriated any money that we expect to spend this year, but the the field isn't expected to fully come online until next year. So, some of that will be next year appropriation. And
like I'd mentioned, some of that is money that we already spend year-over-year on maintaining the existing field. >> Right. But >> so it's not it's not a it's not $75,000 of new money, I guess, is my my point. >> Right. But the maintenance plan is really extensive
>> to do this correctly. I'm just concerned that, >> you know, we made a commitment to the community that we're going to go out and improve this field. We're going to spend all this money to do it. And the concern for me personally is
that I don't feel 100% confident that we could produce a field that's not going to end up where we are today meaning ma being able to maintain the field properly. We also don't know about
drainage. You just reported that as well. That's forthcoming, right? >> The the full report is forthcoming. That's right. >> Yeah. So, um, mayor, this is my concern. I I don't know if you have any additional information based on knowledge that you may have that the
rest of us do not have. Um, but, you know, we are also operating uh not in a vacuum here. There's also, you know, the context where we're going after uh folks who are talking about
installing artificial turf at Ritzer and saying that we shouldn't do that because it's financially uh irresponsible and or because uh we don't have sufficient information for maintenance andor drainage to maintain that field even
after we go out and spend a lot of money to put tur artificial turf there. And I'm concerned that we're doing the same thing with this grass uh improved field. Does anyone else feel differently or anyone else feel the same as me? I'm
sure other people feel differently. >> I feel differently. I think um we've been talking about improving these fields. So my question to this rather new we we've been talking about the field reconstruction for years. um
installing artificial turf and what we heard at sustainable maplewood today is already a heat island part of town would be environmentally responsible. Um, so we went out to try to rebuild this field
at the request of athletic student parents mostly who want um and it's all it's all of us girls fault for finally um having so we have twice as many kids right as when this
town was built who use the fields. So the usage has gone up dramatically and the the um the sport itself has grown dramatically over the last decade or two. So but I don't know to answer to I
would ask you what is the alternative because what I'm hearing is that 75,000 and I'd like an idea of what the actual number of new money that that would cost would be. I think that's an important piece for this because we already spend
on mowing, seeding, fertilizer, all the stuff that we do, not just at Deheart, but uh in Maple Crest and in Memorial in all our parks for where there's playing fields. So, I would ask them, what's the alternative? We just go back and do nothing.
>> No, no, no. I think we should improve the field, but I think we should do so >> with due diligence. And I just think that >> well I think >> this is a bit rushed right now for me anyway. >> And I think what I'm hearing is that there's a commitment by the department of public works and engineering and
administration to follow a plan which is why they had this drafted up by the engineering firm to make sure that we have at least a plan and then it's our responsibility to follow it whether some of that gets outsourced or some of that
is inhouse. So what we always lacked before was an an exact plan of how to maintain a field. It always was just conversation with well go out to Lincoln Landscaping and they'll take care of it. And for a long time it was because it
had to be it was um built incorrectly. It didn't deal with drainage. It's all clay like many of our houses properties are um making it difficult to drain. And then on top of that there was no u construction that helped with that
drainage and that's not the case with this field. Also it there was a commitment by the township then to maintain it in an organic manner which has proven to be between the drainage and the usage not effective enough to um
maintain it properly and then there were all sorts of weird things like overwatering and stuff like that. So I think this is a good step and I think with the all the eyes on it not just from the governing body but from the public. I think there's motivation by
the department and the administration to make sure that this is followed and they we do the very best we can. Are you going to be able to play on it all the time? No. And nor should there be an expectation frankly that you can play soccer 24 hours a day, seven days a
week, 12 months a year. That's not realistic even for artificial turf. Frankly, it's too hot in the summer and they cancel games for the same reasons that they cancel games when it's too muddy on on natural grass. So, there is no per unless you make an interior field
there that you have a roof on. There's not going to be a perfect solution, but personally, I'm satisfied that we're moving in the right direction with uh the maintenance plan here and the commitment by the township to make sure it's being followed. >> Yeah. Yeah, I mean I don't disagree with
that and then I'll speak as well. >> Yeah. Can I just follow up? >> I don't disagree with anything that you said. I think this is a step in the right direction. My concern is the timing of it >> because I just think that there are too many questions unanswered and too many unknowns. Deputy mayor.
>> So I wanted to point out a couple of things. So we have had a plan before. This isn't the first time. Um, the plans on how to maintain all of the fields have been shared with the recreation committee. These existed before and they haven't necessarily been
followed. What I'm saying is this this can't be business as usual. We need to do more. We need to do a better job of maintaining our fields. Um, and um, I'm not I'm seeing this plan and I'm not
seeing the costs for it. And I know you're saying 75,000, but I I'm not really sure how that's all um, uh, calculated. I am I I don't know if that's something that DPW is going to be
able to take over or if that's something that we're going to have to farm out. I can't see a way around not having a facilities manager like South Orange does that deals specifically and fully
in maintaining their fields. Um I I think that we need to be um we need to go into this with our eyes open. Look, I want to improve fields. That is a priority for me. I want to make the fields in our town better for the
athletes who play on them and for all of the families who require this of our town. Uh but I also want to be fiscally responsible about this and I want to make sure that, you know, we're not, you know, doing everything at the last minute. We've been talking about this
field for two years before I even joined the township committee. And yet, we're getting a maintenance plan sent to us at 10:00 p.m. the night before. And I want to hear what our engineer and our DPW head have to say about this. I want to
hear what our community services head has to say about this. I would like to run this by the recreation committee and the fields committee. Like I I'm really having a hard time seeing how we're getting backed into a corner here and told we have to pass this bond if we're
going to get this field done this year and if we don't do this right now, the field's not going to get done in time. Where where where was all of this? I I'm somebody dropped the ball and it's not us. >> Okay. Um
Miss Collins Colling, do you have anything you'd like to add? Um, I think we've talked about this a lot. I think it's time to move forward and do the work that has to be done. I don't think we need to hire a facility person.
I think the point he made was very clear in putting this money forward to do this field. That would now give us the maintenance money. we can at least look at that as a budget and we can go back to the drawing board, but we have to put
this money aside to be able to do the work that the community is asking us to do. We've done a lot of talking. Now, it's actually time to move forward because if we start to pedal back and say, well, what are we going to do? What if we hire someone? How much is this field going to cost? We can get the
money and we can do the budget. I understand notice was late, but here we are now. We have to do it. We have to move forward. We just can't we can't go back to the conversations. We just have to pull the trigger and just do it. So, what are we going to do on if we have a
maintenance issue on the weekend and we need somebody to address it? What are we going to do? Um, if you read through this plan, it's wild. >> This plan calls for the field to be rested for one to two days following every tournament.
That's crazy. Um, it calls for us to use one half of the field and then the next week close that field and use the other half of the field. Um, I don't know how on earth we're possibly going to do that. I have not heard from our
Department of Community Services on how they're going to accomplish this. Currently, when they close the field, an email goes out. They're not planting flags. They don't have signs. We've asked for it. You know, how are they going to close these fields? and how are we going to keep people who aren't registered users of the fields from
coming and using them when they're supposedly rested? Um, I mean, there's a lot of answers that need to be made and how we're going to maintain this. And when we're talking about $3 million of taxpayer dollars, I'm trying to be responsible about it. I want us to have
a new field. I really do. I I just feel really rushed and not uh I don't feel like I have enough answers. I would say that the design of the field is removing a softball field that was underutilized
and rebuilding. And the reason there are two fields is so that one could be rested and recuperate from the use. It's not so you can have twice as many tournaments and games. It's so that the fields could be rested without affecting
the schedule so as much as it would if it was still just one field. >> Okay. So, um, here here's where we are. We need four votes to move this forward. The Senate needs a supermajority. Um, we have a few options. We could
adopt this just the way it is. Everybody feels comfortable. We move forward. We could table this to the next meeting. We lose two weeks. Um, weeks matter because this has to get out on the street for a bid. We have to award it at some point in the
next month and a half, two months and um then we have to get the work done. Otherwise, the work won't be done in 26. It'll have to go into 27 and we'll have a crappy field for this year and a crappy field for next >> next year, >> half of next year.
>> So, we have the ability to we could table it. We could adopt it moving forward with the bids. um we could not award the contract until all these questions are >> um satisfied.
Uh so that's who we are. I think that I I you know I I met I met with Mr. Weary yesterday. I don't have any additional information. I I said my understanding was we were supposed to have this plan by the 7th. I think there was some confusion as to when the plan was
supposed to be delivered. Um anyway, that's why it got out late last night. So, um the I I would disagree with you. I think this is a different plan than plans we've had before. I've never seen a plan a month by month plan as to how
to address the field, both the under the the top soil and the soil below. Um >> it is different. Yeah, >> it is it is very different. Mhm. >> I don't think there's a person up here who disagrees with you about the discontent of the management of fields.
Not the maintenance, but the man I mean the maintenance has its own problems, >> but the management of fields. >> That has to change completely. And um I also agree with committeewoman Adams that the reason we eliminated the ball field was so that we could create two
fields that would allow games to go on sometimes simultaneously sometimes resting a field and using the other field. >> So it we've expanded the opportunity there by 100% by creating two fields that two full fields that you can play on and then many small fields that you
can parcel it off. So that was all part of the plan. But it will take management. It will take a seismic change. >> Mhm. >> In 2027 to manage that than how we're managing it. And that's that's our job to work this year to get that in place
with the staff that we have. >> Yep. >> Um and so yes, I think I would have liked to have seen this earlier. I read it I had a little opportunity to read it when it came out. um read it late at night. I haven't seen any cost. This is
the first time I'm actually hearing the cost. We need that information. I would hope that we could get four votes to move this forward. If we don't, I think we should someone should make a motion to table. If if I I hear three votes, yes. If we don't have a fourth, then we
should table and move this to our next meeting, which is April 21st. If we table to the 21st, does that still keep us within the timeline? >> It jeopardizes. >> We're set the schedule down to two weeks
>> because Yeah, because once you uh and and you could explain this better is a bond ordinance. So there's a 30-day >> Mr. period. >> 20 days. >> 20 day. So, there's a 20-day period before the ordinance becomes effective,
which is specific to bond ordinances. It's different from all your other ordinances. Um, you know, also adopting the bond ordinance doesn't require you to borrow the money. >> Um, it authorizes, it allows that period to run. You can cancel the ordinance
later and there will need to be further action to award a contract for the improvement. >> Right. So right now the plan is to close it in June, June 22nd I think and start the work right after and then have everything planted by October. If we have to go into November, it you don't
know with the weather. So that so two weeks could actually matter as we just experienced, you know, swings in the last couple weeks. So yeah, there's, you know, there's there's um but this isn't the final thing. We can still work. We can we can go back
into the engineering committee and drill down with um Mr. Kitner and Mr. Haran on how they're going to do this. We can go into health and human services and focus with the director there on how this is going to be managed differently. What do
you need both personnel wise and and equipment wise, flags, signs? There's a lot of ways you can do this. And it and it I think it's us pushing staff to get this done because absolutely right. We cannot make another mistake here.
>> This has got to be done right. And we're we're changing the base of the of the field from from soil to sand to allow proper drainage and proper growth of the top soil. So we're already making a significant change. Um, we think this is
going to work and we think that we have a plan that if we implement the plan both on the management and the maintenance, we'll be able to maintain it. We need to get better numbers. Clearly, it will be effective in the 2027 budget, not the 2026 budget. We'll
have to make sure we budget for this and we'll have to move, you know, that's where we're going to that's that's where we're going to go. We have it's going to be in our hands to to work with the staff to get this to work going forward. Here's where we are. We need a fourth vote. If we don't have the fourth vote, then we should move to table it and take
it up again in two weeks. >> So, the bond ordinance requires four votes, but does How about the vote to award the contract? >> That's three. >> That's correct. That would be a simple majority. >> So, >> so you could potentially move forward with the bond ordinance, not move
forward with the contract. You could. Yes. >> Yes. >> I mean, some places carry bond ordinances on their books for quite a long time before they decide to actually undertake the improvement that it's authorized. >> But to be totally honest, the leverage is now. >> You need the four votes because you're
absolutely right. >> Yeah. >> You need the four votes now. You need three votes. >> I know. >> Yeah. So, I understand that. I think there's a matter of trust here. >> Yeah. >> I don't think that I don't think there's sides. I don't think there's differences here. I think we're all rowing in the same direction that we want this field
to be done. We want this field to be done right. It's a major investment of money and when it's built, we want it to be able to maintain and management manage it appropriately. >> Right. I think we all agree to that. >> Yes. and you said yourself this is a
seismic change in culture and maintenance culture and I'm just not convinced based on my experience here for eight years >> um that our staff can do that >> I am concerned that we're it sounds like
um discussion of having a facilities person is off the table that bothers me because I feel like >> I don't think it is >> I don't think it is >> good all right that's I think I don't I think we even had that conversation. There's been a couple of uh um opinions
expressed. That's all. >> And you're saying that that would go into the 2027 budget. >> It would all go into 2027 budget. >> Yeah. And it could be existing staff that has the training that's interested. But I think that we if we're going to have a field that we're spending this amount of money on, we need to manage
it. and we need somebody who's going to be on top of it in terms of managing it and making sure that the maintenance is on schedule. It's a very detailed plan. Um, and you know, I I I do uh continue
to have concerns about removing our one lit lit softball fields. You know, um I was just watching my daughter play softball over in South Orange today. Beautiful day for a game. A little cold. Um and they were at the which was the
one lit softball field. They now have added lights. They now have four lit softball fields by the beard. Three more over by the met the mealand. That's seven lit softball fields they have. And we're getting ready to eliminate our
only lit fields. So, I would like for us to also take very seriously the conversations about having more lit softball fields. And if it means going doortodoor with every single person, I am happy to do that.
>> Okay. So, as a matter of trust, I feel like there are several different elements that we need to all be open-minded and discuss. When we say not business as usual, this is a seismic move. We really
need to own it and and talk about all of these things. >> Well, which brings us down to if we're going to move this, do we have a fourth vote? And um that's the question. >> If it doesn't give four votes then it
just it can we then table it? >> You can. >> No. >> No. >> Once we've voted on it >> Well, it has it then has to be reintroduced. That's right. >> Reintroduced which is why if there were additional questions? >> Yeah. That's why I'm I'm holding off on the introduction. >> Right. So you need Right.
>> And you know is there support for tableabling it? I'm not sure. Well, I I mean I would vote to table it as opposed to vote it down. So, >> Right. >> Um, >> so I I'll move to table it to the April 21st meeting.
>> All right. Is there a second? >> I'll second it. So just to clarify for the record, so the the motion is to carry the second reading and public hearing of bond ordinance 3189 to our next regularly scheduled meeting of April 21st and no additional public notice would need to be given.
>> Correct. >> Okay. Call the role. >> So >> there's a move to t's is a motion made in second to table. So point of clarification is the tableabling if the tableabling vote happens that means that we're not voting on it tonight.
>> Correct. >> Right. We'll be voting on it at the April 21st. We're not starting over again. >> So if the vote was to happen are you preferring a table? Is that what you're saying? >> Yes. To get additional information. >> What kind of information are you
expecting in two weeks? the information we just talked about, the information that supposedly came in the last less than 24 hours. We got like a number about $75,000, like by then we'll also hear from DPW and from community services, the
information that you said you'd like to have as well. >> I would. Yes. You know, but I'm also wondering like if our if our schedule is so completely thin that like I mean I gotta say a $3 million project and we've
got and we're down to like two weeks is going to derail it. >> Well, >> you know, I'm really I I'm really just >> Okay, so look, this is on the table. This is this is on the table. So, the question is, >> do we does anybody have any more? Actually, table's not even a debatable
um where where's where's Michelle Bobber when we need but table's not even a debatable topic but the I'm I'm I'm I seconded table because I don't want this to fail and I don't have confidence that we have four votes comfortably. So
we need to So this means that the motion that this or ordinance would be carried to April 21st. It would not there would be a second hearing. I would and that would be it. And uh any information that people have, we would hope to get to them. Any
information that came up tonight, previously or subsequent to this meeting, we would hope to get to them before the 21st. >> So, and tableabling and waiting two weeks, we risk the project timeline. And
and respectfully, it it it's not that we just have two weeks now or or that we just got this 24 hours ago or less than 24 hours ago, which we did, but the whole maintenance issue has been
talked about, but until maybe not the last engineering public works, but the one before that, Miss Herman, that's when you brought it up as something that could possibly that all of a sudden we were even doubting that we were going to reconstruct this field
until you got a complete maintenance plan. So now we have it and we have to, you know, trust that our administration and our people are going to be compelled to follow it through. And I think it's I
think it's unfair to just keep saying we just got it less than 24 hours ago or but this this specific request with the caveat that maybe we you weren't going to be in favor of rebuilding this field or jeopardizing a
project that we've been talking about for far more than two years is is not I don't think a very fair thing to put on administration public works and and the engineers is involved as if now we're suddenly in a rush. We're in a rush if
we want to get this field built and ready to be used next spring. >> If we are in such a rush, then everybody should have been acting accordingly. >> Well, we've been in a rush. >> Okay. Okay. Okay. Look, there was a hold time out there. >> Time out.
>> Not going to do that. >> We have a a tableabling motion. Please call the role >> on the table. Miss Adams, >> no. >> Miss Collins Golding,
>> yes. >> Mr. Davis, >> yes. >> Zurman, >> yes. >> Mayor Duca, >> yes. >> We have four affirmative. >> This is going to be carried till April 21st.
>> Okay. We have another ordinance on final. >> Yes, mayor. Uh, ordinance 3190-26 is an ordinance for men table of organization within the township of Mapwood to establish the position of
accounting and revenue specialists. This ordinance will amend the township's table of organization to establish the position of accounting and revenue specialists and to establish a salary range for the position.
This ordinance has been published on the township website, copies posted on the bulletin board in the municipal building, and copies made available to the general public in accordance with the law. Is there anyone who would like to speak on this ordinance about creating a position in the finance office? Anyone online?
If anyone joining on Zoom would like to speak to this ordinance, please raise your hand now. >> I see no hands. Um, can we get a motion? >> I move this ordinance be adopted as a whole and the clerk be directed to publish post the same as a past ordinance on the township's website and
town hall bulletin board according to the law. >> Second, >> please call the role. >> Mr. Adams, >> yes. >> Miss Collins Golding, >> yes. >> Mr. Daffis, >> yes. >> Herman, >> yes. >> Mayor Duke, >> yes. Thank you. We have introduction of an ordinance.
>> Mr. Mayor, uh, we're at item number 10, ordinance number 3191-26 is an ordinance amending and supplementing chapter 79, article one of the code of the township of Mapwood
entitled consumption in public areas to provide for permits related to municipally sponsored events. This ordinance will amend and supplement article one of chapter 79 of the township code to permit the temporary
suspension of the prohibition on public consumption of alcoholic beverages within a defined area and for a limited duration in connection with a municipally sponsored event. I move the passage of this ordinance on
first reading, its publication according to law on the township's website and town hall bulletin board, and a hearing to be held on April 21st, 2026. >> I second this motion. >> Just so uh folks know what this is. This is related. First, it's related to the
World Cup. We want to have a uh watch party on Maplewood Avenue. Um the game starts at 9 or 10 o'clock at night and we want to have people be able to um enjoy the game and enjoy some alcoholic beverages out in the uh public. So
that's what this is about. Uh so it's been moved and sp uh seconded. Please call the role. >> Miss Adams, >> yes. >> Miss Collins Cing, >> yes. >> Mr. Daffis, >> yes. >> Miss Herman, >> yes. >> Mayor Duca, >> yes. Thank you. Before we get to the next ordinance, I'm going to ask our
code committee chair, Mr. Daffis, he would explain some of the proposed changes in the outdoor dining. Uh we were not able to discuss this fully as the township committee, but it was discussed fully at the code committee and we felt u satisfaction that it could
be put on the agenda tonight. So >> yes, thank you, mayor. Uh the majority of the township committee uh was present at the code committee uh where we last uh talked about this. Um, as the public is already aware, we did make a change to the outdoor dining season. It it now
starts on May 1st and ends on October 15th. Um, the applications to are going to go live uh in fact tomorrow to to allow our merchants to apply for outdoor dining this season. So, we wanted to get
the updated outdoor dining fees uh introduced tonight. We have communicated the updated proposed fee to the merchants uh through the Maplewood Village Alliance and through direct communication from the township. What we're proposing here is an increase in
the right-of-way occupancy fee from the current $2 per square foot to $5 per square foot. Why would we do this? We're doing it to offset the cost uh the upfront costs and labor cost to the
township in installing and improving the outdoor dining, the streetery um equipment. That includes the platforms, the materials, the planters. The township pays for all of that. Township labor through DPW installs all of that. Uh and this is a fee that would apply to
all of the merchants. Uh some of the merchants don't use the platform because they're in the parking lot. Some of the merch, one merchant at least has their own uh outdoor dining apparatus entirely. So this is the more equitable approach to increase the right-of-way
occupancy occupancy occupancy fee that applies to all merchants who use the public right of way to put in um an outdoor dining um streetery. So, uh that is the proposal as I said approved by
the code committee at our last meeting. Uh and uh we know that the majority of the township committee was also present there and they were in favor of this uh change in fee. >> And I'm going to ask you if you're ready to move this please.
>> Uh yes, I would move uh the passage of this ordinance on >> I'm sorry. I'm We have to read it first. I'm sorry. That's >> Oh, yeah. We have to read it first. Okay. Any questions about the the report Mr. Davis gave? I'm sorry. Let's go to the ordinance 319.
>> Mayor, uh 3192-26 is an ordinance amending chapter 187 of the code of the township of Mapwood entitled outdoor dining to revise the streetery program fee schedule.
This ordinance will amend article three of chapter 187 of the township code to revise the streety program fees. >> Please. >> Okay. So, uh this time around for real,
I move the passage of this ordinance on first reading and its publication according to law on the township's website and town hall bulletin board in a hearing to be held on April 21st, 2026. >> Please call the role. >> Mr. Adams. >> Yes. >> M. Collins. Colding. >> Yes. >> Mr. Daffis. >> Yes.
>> M. Herman. >> Yes. >> Mayor Duca. >> Yes. Thank you. We have another ordinance on introduction. >> Yes. Mayor. Uh 3193-26 calendar year 2026. ordinance to exceed the municipal budget
appropriation limits and to establish a cap bank under NJSA4A 4-45.14. I have to do this. I move the passage of this ordinance on first reading, its publication according to law in the township website and town
hall bulletin board in a hearing to be held on April 21st, 2026. >> I'll second. >> Please call the role. >> Mr. Adams, >> yes. >> Miss Collins Cing, >> yes. >> Mr. Daffus, >> yes. >> Surman, >> yes. >> Mayor Doug, >> yes. Thank you. We'll go to uh
administrative reports. Mr. Weary, >> I have no report tonight, Mayor. >> Anything for Mr. Weary? >> Miss Credidio? >> Yeah. There you go, >> Miss Fritzen. >> Yeah, we know you have >> Mayor. >> Yes. >> Uh I just want to report that uh we have
a general um special election next Thursday, April 16th. Uh at all of our uh Maplewood polling locations. Uh polls open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Um and uh
yeah, we'll be ready to go on that. And uh you had asked me at the last meeting uh mayor three weeks ago when I had an idea, but I wasn't uh entirely sure with anything in writing. But beginning with the June election, uh the three polling
locations here at the Maplewood Town Hall, um polling uh districts 1, 3, and six will be moving to uh the Maplewood Library. And uh that's something that we propose. Township uh
governing body proposed and uh we have been uh received uh permission to uh relocate starting in June. Um, as far as um our election uh coming up, um early
voting uh did begin on April 6th. And um our next event after um our upcoming election next week is preparation for Memorial Day, the parade. and uh all the
participants that uh love being in the parade and being part of the ceremony. So um that's my report. >> Thank you. Just to be clear, districts 1, three, and six for the special election next Thursday will vote here. >> That's correct, Mayor.
>> Okay. And then in June, they will go over to the library. >> Yes. >> And I have a question, clerk. Um, there's been some questions about early voting and I wonder if you could just uh give us an update. I believe from your previous reports that the polling
location has to be established first before you can then apply for it to be an early voting. For example, if it's going to be at the library. >> We haven't been granted uh early voting at this uh point. We we uh had indicated that we were interested correct early
voting but we have not been granted that at no determination at this point >> and that would be for the June election. >> Right. But it but >> that I don't think that we've we were told that that you had to be an
established place before you could >> Okay, then that's that's my misunderstanding. So So are we seeking to be an early voting place? We requested that the decision gets made by the state >> and >> we we actually um uh Mayor Luke was
there uh and we met with the county and we gave them a tour of um our proposed uh location which was Maplewood Library and uh yeah the state has to make that decision and uh we haven't received any
notification at this point. So, we've made the application and we're waiting to hear back from the state. >> Well, we don't make the application. Uh the county does, >> okay, >> on our behalf and uh they were um happy with um what we proposed,
but there's been no uh approval. >> So, we don't know if the county has made the request or not. That's where we're at. >> I'm just trying to understand where we're at. I'm assuming they made the request because we met with them weeks ago and we did a tour
and uh they approved our proposal to have early voting at the library beginning for the June election. >> That That's wonderful. So So we're just waiting to hear if the state >> No, no, no, no, no, no. Be Let's be careful with our words. They did not
approve anything because this the county doesn't approve anything. >> Right. I'm It's wonderful that in June voters will be able to vote there. That's what I'm saying. >> Yes. >> Right. That that's going to happen. >> And that is wonderful. >> Yes. >> Um I'm just asking the the status
because people are asking. Um >> so we made the request of the county and the county has to make the request of the state. We cannot make the request of the state directly. >> Correct. So what I understand is that the county has made this request. >> We don't know that. >> We don't know that. >> We don't know that. >> Okay.
>> We assume that. We don't know that. >> Great. >> We have not received anything. Correct. We've not received anything that confirms that the county has requested this from the state. >> No, we have not. >> So, we can ask the county.
>> Yes. And that's what we should do. We should follow up with the county to see if in fact that they've made that request >> on our behalf. >> Thank you. I think we just want to be very careful because we don't want people to say, "Oh, you said this at a meeting and
>> approved." Yeah. >> Yeah. >> No, no. It's floating around that it's in process and I sounds like we have some questions to ask. So, >> anything else? >> No. >> Okay. All right. We're going to move now to the introduction of our 2026 budget.
And I would just like to make a couple comments. As the chair of the finance committee, tonight we are introducing our 2026 operating budget for the municipal portion of the property tax. This year we expect to raise 41.8 million in property tax for the
township, which is an increase of 2.95 over 2025. Approximately 70% of the municipal budget is covered by property taxes. As you might know, the property tax bill covers the school district, the municipality, the county, and our
municipal library. By far, the school tax is the largest, about 57%. Essis County is at 14%, and the township and library make up about 29%. Crafting an annual budget is not an easy job. It starts with our department heads
taking a hard look at each line item. Our finance team evaluated each revenue and expense item. The township committee held more than seven hours of budget meetings and the township administrator presented his budget recommendations. I want to thank all for their hard work on
preparing this budget, allowing us to meet the state deadline for introduction, April 7th. A budget is the skeleton of our local government operations. It reflects our values. This budget will allow us to maintain the quality services residents expect from
us. It continues funding our homeless services and includes a new allocation to address food insecurity. We've added 26% more funding than required by the state for library services, particularly to open up on Sundays. We also added
funds to get our ball fields in better shape for this season. We'll be approving a contract tonight for that. And I'm happy to report that this budget includes $1.5 million in one-time funding that we will be using to pay down the debt. We understand that any
tax increase matters to you, and we will continue to look at revenue sources other than property taxes. The 2026 budget is an investment in our community, providing core services while also keeping the township on solid
financial footing. We're going to keep looking at this budget. We're going to introduce it tonight and then we're going to have a hearing. We urge you to come out if you have any questions. Contact us. But I do want to thank everyone who for their hard work in putting together this budget that we'll
be considering tonight. And Mr. Weary and Mr. Niles, Mr. Clemens, um >> I like Niles better. >> Well, however, Mr. Clemens, uh if you would give us your budget presentation. >> Good evening. Thank you, mayor. Thank you, Township Committee. Good evening,
Maplewood Administration. As the mayor said, we'll be introducing the 2026 budget tonight as it comes on the screen. We'll go through the numbers. You can go to the next slide, Patrick. Thank you. So, as the mayor said, the municipal budget comes in at 62,799,246.
That's an increase of 3,210,000 over the 2025 budget. The mayor mentioned the oneshot revenue of aid that comes in for intergovernmental insurance of $1.6 million. So without that offset, the increase is actually
only $1.6 million. The pool budget comes in at $1,579,000 is up $90,000 from the prior year. Our storm water budget this year introduces a number of $874,000,
an increase of $74,000, $935 over the previous year. The combined budget for the municipal pool utility and storm water utility budget comes to $63,753,226. That's a total increase of $3,376,45251. What are some of the major drivers of
this budget? Relief. Relief comes in the form of revenue that's anticipated above what we realized last year. There's an additional $149,000 of UCCC revenue. That's uniform construction code as building permits
that Maplewood received. We also have $255,000 worth of health grants that we're anticipating in this budget. that those health grants help us reduce the amount of salary and wages that we appropriate in our budget. There's also an increase
of miscellaneous revenue and surplus. Those increases this year amount to just over $400,000 over the previous year's anticipated amount. Pressure. What is pressure? Additional appropriations that we have in the 2026 budget that were not appropriated in 2025.
The shared service for the South Essex Fire Department has increased $367,000. Our salary and wages and pension appropriations have increased $767,000. Our storm water liability this year is
budgeted at $325,000 and that cost of insurance is up for health insurance, other liability insurance around $668,000. The budget impact. The proposed tax rate for the 2026 budget is 67. That's an
increase of 017 over the prior year's tax rate. The average residential tax in 2026 with an introduced budget comes in at $5,438. That's an average municipal increase of $159
on the average home assessed at $810,000. uh that amounts to about a 3% increase. The net valuation taxable for this year is six bill232,542,300. As I mentioned, the average assessed
home this year is $810,282. That has been increased by $3,127 from the prior year's average assessed home value. The total municipal amount to be raised by taxation, as Mayor Duca mentioned, is $41,824,711.
That is an increase of $1,198,000, which amounts to a 2.5, excuse me, 2.95% increase in municipal taxes. Uh, if you can go back really quickly for me, please, Patrick, on the budget drivers form, you'll see the relief came in at
800,000. the pressure 2.1 million that difference of 1.3 million is the amount to be raised by taxation 1.1 million for the municipal portion and then an additional 100,000 and some change for the
libraries increase thank you Patrick you move forward twice now estimated taxes as the mayor said a large portion of the taxes collected here in Maplewood goes to the school district we are approximately at $86 million for the school levy this year
which represents about 56% of the total levy. 27% of the levy is municipal 41 million. 2.1 million is attributed to the library levy. 22 million is attributed to the
county. 623,000 will be raised for municipal open space purposes and 300,000 will be raised for special district. The total estimated taxes to be collected in 2026
is just around 153,444,000. Thank you. This pie chart shows the 2026 revenue. Excuse me, I'm sorry. Where you at? Thank you. This pie chart shows the 2026 revenue supporting the municipal budget.
Again, the municipal budget is $62,799,246. The breakdown, $41 million in local tax, $2 million in library tax will be utilized in $2.9 million of surplus, $14,792,000
of municipal, excuse me, of miscellaneous revenue is anticipated in this budget. and receipts from delinquent taxes. We are anticipating $1,135,000. Next tab, please. Revenue supporting the budget. This bar graph just shows the 2025 numbers versus
the 2026 numbers. They're pretty spot-on. You'll notice the 2026 total ministry miscellaneous revenue is slightly higher than the prior year. Again, that's factor in the $1.6 $6 million of the oneshot revenue for the intergovernmental insurance that's being
used to offset our debt service and pay down the library notes. Next slide, please. 2026 appropriations. The budget has to balance. So, we have $62,799,000 of appropriations, 34% of which is
attributable to salaries and wages. 39% other expenses, 11% for deferred charges. Nothing is budgeted in capital improvement fund. We have capital surplus. Any ordinances that are authorized, the down payment will come
from capital surplus. 13% of this year's budget is attributable debt service and 3% is attributable to the reserve for uncollected taxes. Thank you. No, we did that one. Be one more. This
bar graph just shows the total to, excuse me, the 2026 appropriations versus 2025. Similar to the revenue, they're right on par. No huge increases. The debt service has a big jump of about 24%. But without that $1.6 million, it's
only a $44,000 increase. salary and wages, other expenses, and deferred charges all have nonimomal increases of about 3%. Uh there was no increase for the reserve for uncollected taxes. This is just a summary of the introduced
budget. As the mayor said, we'll have a public hearing on May 5th here to talk about the introduced budget and look to adopt the budget. Any questions, concerns, comments?
I have a question about the hearing on May 5th. So, the public could come and ask questions about the budget and if we were to make any changes to the budget, how would that affect our adoption process? >> Yeah, the public is invited to attend
and and comment online uh or in person. And as far as any changes made between uh today and the final adoption, it depends on the amount and where those changes are made. And I can give you a a better description of what the triggers are there.
>> So it's a 1105 rule. 1% if 1% of the total budget is changed, then we have to amend. If 1% of the total budget is amended via being changed, then we have to have a second public hearing. If 10% increase or decrease of any line item is
changed, then we have to advertise and have another public hearing. And if there is an change of 5% of the total amount to be raised by taxation, if that's changed, then we again have to have a second public hearing and advertise again. >> So, as long as we met those thresholds, if someone came and presented something
and the majority of the township committee wanted to make a change underneath those thresholds, we could still move forward. >> Yes, sir. That's helpful. Can you email those thresholds just so I have that um in my knowledge bank? Thanks. >> Yes, ma'am.
>> And it's also not uncommon between introduction and adoption for some changes to be made both in response to the township committee, maybe the public, but also because after today, we send our budget down to the state for their review. And oftentimes they'll come back with some comments and and ask us to make changes and and we'll do
that. Uh but at the end, you know, we still have to uh present to you a balanced budget to vote on >> and our deadline for final submission is >> the deadline for adoption is on May 5th. >> Thank you. >> So we'll submit to the state right after
introduction. We'll send it down tomorrow >> and we'll we'll share with the public this presentation. >> Absolutely. >> Great. >> Anything else? Okay, we have a resolution.
>> Uh, yes, Mayor. Resolution number 138 uh-26 is introduction of the 2026 municipal budget and uh I need to uh read in full
um sheet two and that is municipal budget of the township of Mapwood County of Essex for the fiscal year 2026. Be it resolved that the following statements of revenue and appropriations shall constitute the municipal budget
for the year 2026. We had further resolved that said budget will be published on the official website on April 8th and advertised uh on the bulletin board and the governing body
for the town of Mapwood does hereby approve um the following budget for the year 2026 and notice is hereby given that the budget and tax resolution was approved by the township committee. the township
of Mapwood County of Essex on April 7th and a hearing on the budget and tax resolution will be held at Township Mapwood on at the Maplewood Township Committee meeting on May 5th, 2026 at
7:30 p.m. at which time and place. Objections to set budget and tax resolution for the year 2026 may be presented by taxpayers or other interested parties. >> Okay.
>> Yes, that's your resolution. >> All right. Um, Miss Adams, can we get a motion to uh adopt resolution? Do >> I have to read something? Chair, I move the adoption of this resolution.
>> I second. >> Please call the role. >> Miss Adams, >> yes. >> Mr. Collins Calden, >> yes. >> Mr. Dis, >> yes. >> Sherman, >> yes. >> Mayor Duca, >> yes. Thank you. And thank you, Mr. Clemens, for your uh presentation.
>> Mr. I got him. >> I thought you said Miles again. >> No, you No, you heard that. Uh, can we get a motion to go beyond 9:30? >> Move it. Unfortunately. >> Second. >> Please call the role. >> Mr. Adams. >> Yes. >> Mr. Collins Holding. >> Yes. >> Mr. Davis.
>> Yes. >> Herman. >> Yes. >> Mayor Duca. >> Yes. Thank you. We have reports from elected officials. Deputy Mayor Herman. >> Thank you. Um so I wanted to again thank everyone for
um supporting Autism Acceptance Month. Um, beyond the proclamation, we are for our health fair on April 25th. It will be autism acceptance focused. We have the uh the SAV, which stands for sensory
activation vehicle, and this will be on campus for the health fair. Um, the SAV is a vehicle that offers a quiet area for individuals who may need that space. And so we're really excited about
families being able to come out for the bike rodeo. Um but if somebody comes out and they need a quiet space, they need to sort of get out of all of the um commotion, we have the sensory activation vehicle. It is air conditioned. It has some um comfortable
seating and you know some some there's some water features and it's just a really quiet and calming area if you need that. Um and the so the reason we're doing that is that the building we looked at putting a sensory space in the building and we're going to be using
that whole building for um screenings. So please come on out um there's a lot of screenings that are going to be taking place um at the health fair. the uh our police department will have a table and they're going to be t they're there and available to talk about the blue envelope program which we have
talked about in the past which is for autistic drivers to have in their glove compartment. Um, and they're also going to have the special needs registry and they can talk to parents about it and what that means to be on it and and and basically if it helps the police to know
if they are going to a call at a specific house who might be there and to have some sensitivity for the people who live there. So, they're going to be at the health fair at a table able to hand out those blue envelopes and talk to residents. Um, and then we're also going
to be promoting the blue envelope again throughout the month um and the registry. And then the library is also going to have a table at the health fair and they're they're working on some book lists of recommended reading for this month that um deals with autism acceptance um books that you know are
either written by an autistic author um or who you know have characters. So um just another way to really um embrace the the theme of the month and and learn and and move forward. So I wanted to share that. And then, okay, wouldn't be
my time to speak if I didn't tell y'all how many days until the pool opens. 46 days. Last time it was 67 days, and I really missed the opportunity to say 67. So,
>> it's 46 days. The pool opens on Saturday, May 23rd. But guess what opens tomorrow? Tomorrow, early bird pool passes go on sale. So, this is a big deal. You can get your pool passes. And
so, I have three things to say about the early bird pool passes. Number one, the rates you're going to see go on sale tomorrow are the essentially the same as we had in 2012.
Rates are going to be really low 2012. So when we talk about affordability um you know this is the we've discussed the pool before it's not a luxury it is it is an community pool an opportunity for our community to come together to
enjoy cool wa waters and um convene with their with the community and the rates are essentially 2012 rates. So you heard it here first. Um, the second thing is that individual rates, I do want to make a note that individual rates are decreased more than any of the other
rates. We had individuals speak at the township committee meeting about how they felt the proportion wasn't quite right. And when I looked at the 2012 rates, they were right. So, we reduced the individual rates by a bigger proportion to um, you know, make sure
that individuals know that they are welcome to the pool as well. But of course, family rates are the most um popular rate. And the the thing I want to say about family rates is our family rate for the early bird is going to be $380. And that is pretty darn close to the
South Orange family rates. South Orange uh their system is a little different, but essentially they have a family max of $350. So um we're comparing 380 to 350. It's pretty darn close, guys. Um, I would say
that this is a a testament to the commitment that the township committee has had in making the pool affordable and making it a community pool as it was always intended to be. So, tomorrow, get your pool passes and that is all I have.
>> Thank you, Committee Daffis. >> Thanks, Mayor. I have no report. >> Committeewoman Adams, >> no report. >> Committeewoman Collins Cing. I'll make this quick. Uh, from our arts department, arts and culture on April
18th, we had Yugo and Maxine Giani Giani who will be will have the exhibition at I think it's going to be at the Woodland. Yes. And they have a film screening at night as well and that's going to be $7. And they have amazing art that they're going to put up in the
upstairs area and that part of it is going to be free. And on the 19th, April 19th, we have art from the earth collection collective ex exhibition and workshop for garden state art weekend and Earth Day.
And April 26, Hababi Fest at the Woodland. We have I don't have the date for that, but that's what I have. Go on the website and look arts and culture website. >> 26. It's the April 26th. >> I think from noon to 5 or something.
Noon to 4 >> the time. Yeah. And for our wreck, we have all sorts of fun stuff coming up. We have field hockey, flag football, tennis, gym basketball, adult open gym
basketball, maps basketball, softball, um parents and me soccer, parents and me multisports, um t-ball skills and sports, t-ball, t-ball, track and field. So it's all on the wreck website. So those are some a few things that we are
offering right now and that's pretty much it. >> Thank you. Uh I have a just a few quick items. This Saturday, April 11th from 10 to 12 will be our talk to the township committee will be at the corner of Baker Street
and Maplewood Avenue. And we have confirmation that the new electric jitney will be there >> and we will be doing a ribbon cutting around noon. So, uh this will give an opportunity if anybody would like to come and see our new Jity, you'll be able to come on board and check it out.
Um, and these we're going to be we have three of these new jitneys. We'll be implementing it in our jity runs towards the end of the month, beginning of May once we uh get everyone trained on how to drive them. But come on down on Saturday between 10 and 12 to see our
new Jity. I got a call today from Grandma Emma's on Springfield Avenue. They've been working with the Ark of Essex County to do uh occupational training and tomorrow they're having a completion ceremony. If anybody's around around 11:30, you can stop by. Um, we're
going to say uh congratulations to the uh participants. And then on October, I'm sorry, October on April 18th at 9:00 a.m. we'll be having our softball parade. It'll be in South Orange. So,
um, that'll be kicking off our softball and baseball program. All right. Going to move now to the discussion items. Uh, Mr. Daffis, you got the proposed fees. >> Uh, yes, I do. I shared some updated
fees as they relate to construction, zoning, land use, fire prevention, and rental registration. Uh, what we're doing here is updating our fees. They haven't been updated in quite some time. uh in keeping with our
neighboring communities uh and in some instances uh adding fees um for labor that we've sort of been giving away for free uh not in keeping with the most neighboring communities. Um these fees are reasonable, they are
equitable, uh but they also keep us in business um and um you know reimburse the township for the great work that it does. Anybody have any questions? Okay. I mean, I've I've looked at them
and they look great. So, y >> I think this is something we're going to encourage all of our subcommittees. You're going to be hearing from the finance committee urging you to take a look at the fees so that we have them in place this year so that we can incorporate that additional revenue in 2027.
And I just wanted to double check. You said that these fees, I believe when the discussion happened, these are in line with other towns. >> Yes, certainly in line with our neighbor South Orange, in line with um Milbour, in line with other townships of our
size. Um we're still a little below what Monontlair charges in some instances, but we feel that these are reasonable fees. >> Thank you. >> Yeah, we were way below for a for a long time. Yeah. And none of these fees are
uh um none of these fees create new barriers for doing business in town or for new construction as it relates to private homeowners or to commercial building. Um so there's no like new process or new uh unexpected
uh barrier. Uh it's just for the existing process and um bringing us up to date on what we charge. Okay, any questions? Great. Thank you very much. Uh, next item. And you're going to introduce us at the next meeting, right?
>> Yes. >> Yes. Thank you, uh, Council Cordidio. Yep. >> Okay. So, uh, we have the revised chapter 65. >> Yes. Thank you, Mayor. So, um, one thing that we have in our code is a
vol a chapter giving volunteer incentives. Um, this gives certain discounts to volunteer members of the Maplewood Police or Fire Auxiliary CERT C or the Maplewood Volunteer First Aid Squad. Members need to be active for at
least a year as certified by the chief officer of the organization. Um, these volunteer groups don't uh they they're not um currently in existence in Maplewood. Um, our police auxiliary is
no longer in existence. CERT, we have, but I'm not sure how active they are. Um, so we'll have to, you know, we could discuss that. But, um, the purpose of me bringing this up is to focus on the South Orange Rescue Squad. We had a
meeting with them recently and we talked about they have their um an an anniversary coming up next year and oh goodness now I'm forgetting which anniversary it is. Um it is a see if I can figure it out but it is a big
anniversary coming up next year. We would like to make the community aware of the um importance that South Orange Rescue Squad plays in our community. Um the number they gave us was about was for the last year they made 418 runs in
Maplewood throughout the year. As you know our fire department um has a rescue squad that does runs um and they are oftentimes backup. If our fire is occupied, they will do runs. So what I'm proposing is as a thank you and in honor
of you know April is also volunteer appreciation month. um in honor of Voluntary Appreciation Month and as a thank you to the South Orange Rescue Squad and highlighting the important service that they do in our community that we would add them to this ordinance and this would give Maplewood members of
the South Orange Rescue Squad. Um the ordinance gives uh these volunteer groups that are listed a 1 half off the fee of any membership category at the Maplewood Community Pool and exempts them from the municipal portion of the fee for pet licenses and building
permits on their primary residence. Um the pool aspect of this has been discussed in the pool advisory committee and this um change to this section has been discussed in the health and community services committee and both recommend the change. Are there any
questions? >> Sounds good to me. >> Wonderful. >> Okay. So, we'll authorize our attorney to move forward with this >> and I think yeah, we just add in this um this name, but uh we can talk.
>> And the next item is yours also. Yes, >> mayor. So, the next item deals with uh prohibiting declared candidates for office from appearing in promotional videos on township social media outlets within 45 days prior to an election. So, um this is something that we discussed
in the communications committee. Thank you, Mayor Duca, for bringing it to our attention. Soma TV had an interlocal agreement and this dates back a bit from when we had TV and it said quote no material in which a declared candidate
for office is a guest or host shall be broadcast within the 45 days prior to an election. So we don't use Soma TV anymore, but we've started to do videos re or real reels on our social media featuring different members of the
township committee. And this is something that I think um there is a desire for us to continue and to do more of. So, some examples, um, Miss Adams did a video at the Parker and Irvington business area and walked, uh, walk folks
around, um, introducing them to different businesses down there. It's on our website. It's really, it's really well done. Real um, Mr. Mayor Duca did a video when the li was last year when the library was about to open, you know, giving a little tour and some
background. I did a video on the Ballards that are on uh Prospect Street explaining the safe the reason for them and the safety behind it. Um and so this is not something that we do all the time or we do a ton of but it would be for
these sort of things. Um if somebody was up for reelection within or up for election in the office within 45 days, they wouldn't be featured in one of these videos. This does not apply to news oriented appearances. So, um you know,
if there's a Memorial Day parade and we do a video and we're all in it, that doesn't count. A ribbon cutting doesn't count. Um this would be specific like featured videos featuring one individual. So, this is an attempt to take something that we had previously
that was in there for a reason and apply it um modernize it and apply it to today. Are there any questions? And this would prohibit an individual from doing something on his or her own social media. It's just the under with the the
township backing and and resources. They can't be used. >> Correct. Correct. Anybody can always do a video on their personal or campaign sites. This would be related to using a township paid employee to do the video and the editing and to and distributing
distributing that video on our township um social media and web page. >> So if we had a township committee person who was doing a video um work related 45 days prior to the election and was a
standing person a candidate, right? And it was workrelated. Would that apply as promotional for themsel? >> You mean workrelated? >> Um, let's say that was like you did the emergency snow thing and you talked about the snow. You out there doing it,
but it was if if that was 45 45 days prior to election, would that be considered promotional video? How do we determine >> I think a snow emergency is a news related item? But >> I think I think in those instance that was done by me alone.
>> Yeah. So that this would not that would not be covered. This is only when we do something using town resources putting it on the town site. So if it was in if it was I think that would be an as you say it's a news item.
>> Yeah, >> that would be a news item. But the promo piece that Mayor Adams did in um on Irvington Avenue, right? Or for example, suppose our public information officer and I went up on June 1st when the
farmers market opens up and I did a promotion piece and we put it on the town website the night before the election. That would not be allowed. >> Okay, that's if I wanted to go up there on June 1st and put something and put it on my website or put it on >> It's my birthday so I'd rather you not
>> then then we can do that. >> But it makes sense. But then you're still a sitting working committee person or mayor actively in duty. Yes. >> So where do you draw that line to say I'm still doing my work and it's township related because I'm still in
office. >> It's where it appears. >> It's where it appears. It doesn't go on the township social media. >> But why? But what? Yeah. Go ahead. Finish your inquiry. >> Yeah. If you're working, why not? If you're sitting member and working for
the township, a sitting member and you're going and doing that work at a farmers market, you're working until the election. >> So the difference is whether or not something is a is a news event or not because so so when Mayor Adams did the
promotional piece at the Irvington corridor, that could be done anytime. >> Yeah. There was no news element like no news time period to it. She could be that could be done any time. So if that is done just it just can't be done within those 45 days. So she could do it
before she could do it after. It's just within those 45 days. You wouldn't do something that is a promotional piece that doesn't have a news element to it. So a farmers market thing like he could do a farmers market promotional piece in you know or I'm saying anybody could do
it in January when nobody is within 45 days of an election or they could do it um mid June. >> I find it I I I understand exactly what you're saying but there's a fine line between a person who is sitting committee person and still working and you know you always put something on the
website and you use the township website. You're not necessarily. So, I think there's a fine, you know, you could I could I think it's like pornography. >> You you know it when you see it. >> You don't you may not be able to
describe it, but you know it when you see it. >> Okay. I get it. I get it. I'm just >> I just think that this is a distinction without a distinction, right? And I don't see I don't see the um the conflict ethical issue or anything
inappropriate. Let me explain. Uh I also have concerns and I'd like to hear from council about freedom of speech. Um so so Deputy Mayor Malia Herman who reminds us at every meeting every two weeks when the pool is going to open, right? She
goes out to the pool on day one and she says she does a video and that's appropriate because she's the pool person, right? That's one of her committees and all that good stuff. So, she goes out to the pool really excited in her manner and
she's like, "I'm so excited. I'm reporting live. I've been telling you, Tik Tok, countdown to the pool. The pool is finally open today. Come on down." and we have even lower rates this year and you're gonna have a fabulous time. End of video. Okay. She puts it on her
personal socials. Not a problem. But she also puts it on the township uh Instagram to promote that the pool is open. Right. So, it is a newsworthy event that the pool is finally open.
You're letting people know, hey, it's day one. Many people may not follow the news or what you say every township committee. So, it's newsworthy, but it's also promotional. And you happen to be a candidate running for reelection and and it's within 45
days of >> of the primary. >> Yeah. >> What is inappropriate about you doing that? >> What is unethical? I think the difference is if I'm using township resources to accomplish this, like if I took our communications
manager out there and had her shoot >> You would never do that. You're doing it yourself. >> Why? She did the She did the video with me in the Ballards, >> right? >> But I also did my own video last year opening the pool on opening day and I went in, it was freezing and I posted that on my own personal >> Right. But if you post it on the mayor
said earlier, if you post it, it's where it ends up. So if you post it on the township Instagram, that's township resources, that would be inappropriate within the 45 days. >> Yeah. >> Okay. That is a proposed rule, but I again I'm trying to get under under the
hood a little bit and figure out like why it's a where is the unethical I mean what's the motive? Maybe we should >> So when we were having this conversation about doing more reels >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Mr. Weirary asked a very good question
about how do you manage that? Who gets to do the reels? >> Mhm. >> So suppose, you know, do I did someone just call up our public information officer and say, "Oh, you know, I want to do a reel about uh the park." >> Mhm.
>> Come and do me in the park. You know, come and do the do a real of me in the park. >> And you know, why why would does that person have to do that? Why would that person do it? You know, is and then suppose it
was that happened two weeks before the election and you said, "Okay, public information officer, I want to walk around the park and talk about how great the park is and then I want you to put it on the township social media stuff." Is that appropriate?
>> I don't think it's inappropriate cuz I'll give you this one. So, let's say I call the public information officer when we unveil the new rainbow crosswalk and in an alternate reality, let's say we're unveiling the new crosswalk on June 1st. >> Mhm.
>> That is within 40. And in an alternate reality, I'm running for re-election along with you. >> And if that's a if that's a ribbon cutting or a news item like that, yes, then that's appropriate. >> But >> but that's what I'm saying. Whether it's a news item is in the it's it's subject
to it. You know, you know the difference between taking a walk in the park and a news item. >> Well, listen, I think we all could agree. We all I I guess it's the content. It goes back to what committee woman Adams said, right? You know it when you see it because it's really it's content specific. It's not the vehicle
per se or who's doing it or who's taking it. It's really content specific because if you're saying if you're making it clear that you are campaigning during that reel, then that's inappropriate. We all agree on that.
Even, you know, I agree on that too. But you're acting in your capacity as a member of the governing body promoting and or informing the town of things that we're doing. And if you happen to be for reelection,
you happen to be for re-election, I don't think that that's inappropriate. >> Don't perform your >> like you're running for re-election, you're going to come by town, talk to the township. Is that going to be inappropriate? It's whether or not it's like like time rel like news related
like um news. >> I know you're creating that distinction but I don't think but I think but that is the distinction. Oh it absolutely is the pool opening on that date. >> It depends on who's interpreting it. So, so >> date if there's a date specific thing like there's no date specific >> but I gave you a scenario that applies
where it's also newsworthy and promotional like like the video that you do of the pool on opening day >> right well that that is that is time specific it is news it is news specific >> because it's newsworthy it's okay even though it's also a promotional and
you're within the 45 days >> I would say yes in the Same thing lines in the sand. In my opinion, >> same thing for the rainbow crosswalk. If it is a if it's we're talking about videos that can be run any time and if they can be run any time, then they can
be run not within those 45 days. >> So, let me ask you, let me throw this back to you with the rainbow crosswalk. Suppose we paint the rainbow crosswalk on May 15th and that's the day we dedicated it and all that, right? Okay. >> And then I'm running for office on June 2nd. I come back out with the public
information officer on May 25th and I do another video about the Rainbow Crosswalk. >> And what are you saying? What's the content? >> I'm saying that, you know, this was I worked so hard to get this done.
>> Okay, that's campaigning. >> I think it's content. >> It's content specific. >> Oh, I don't think it is at all. Oh, I think it is. >> Mr. Mr. Mayor through you if if I could maybe suggest a distinction that within
that period it's a reel that features one or more members of the township committee who are running in an election. And I think it's the featuring distinction. So for example, if we had uh the rainbow crosswalk example and all
the members of the TC who were present were part of the reel, I think that would be fine. I think that's a fairly simple and straightforward distinction. I also think that to some extent I mean this is not really um I don't think it's
going to be difficult in implementation only because the members are so conscientious of you know not uh utilizing township resources for their own personal promotion. Well, you never know. You could get somebody like Trump
in here. >> But but I also think that it is consistent with other things that you've done in your bylaws um with respect to political activity, for example, that you certainly have the right to uh say
or do or promote anything you want on your own social media. um but you've decided as a body that in connection with township resources, township events, you're going to act in a in a more circumscribed way. So I think that it's not necessarily a question of
ethical or unethical, but it follows some of the actions you've taken in the past to circumscribe certain activities. >> What about freedom of speech? >> You you have the right to to say anything you'd like on your own social media. you don't have the right to use
the the township's public information officer and township social media. >> We do that from these seats every time we meet. We make personal statements during our reports in in response to what's happening. Sometimes those are
individual. They're not in concert with the other members. They're not uh a proclamation or a resolution. They're individual remarks. All the time we do that. But so >> how is that different? >> I think it I think it's clearly
different, right? It's not it's a TC meeting with all members present. It's not a um it's not a video or or a social media item that features or promotes a specific member of the TC. It is just a
um us sharing the video of you participating in in the meeting with all the other members. Would it be helpful to have some language to debate instead of abstract? >> You can work on some language.
>> Yeah, I think I think the idea was to >> get some >> get some sense from the Yeah. >> committee and then it can go back to uh communications and come up with something. >> There you go. >> Thank you. >> That work? >> Yes. >> Did you get enough information?
>> I got a lot of it. All right, let's go with the consent agenda. >> Deputy Mayor. >> Yes. >> Uh, I move the consent agenda be adopted. >> Is there a second? >> Second.
>> Got to work on that. >> Please call the role. Mr. >> Adams, >> yes. Mr. Collins, >> yes. >> Mr. Davis, >> yes. >> Sherman, >> yes. Mayor Duca, >> yes. Thank you. We're now in our second public comment period on any subject
matter. Is there anyone here would like to uh address the township committee? Seeing no one, we'll go to Zoom. If anyone joining on Zoom would like to address the township committee on any topic, please raise your hand. See no hands, mayor.
>> Okay, we'll close the second public comment period. Uh, our next meeting is Tuesday, April 21st at 7:30 p.m. Can we get a motion to adjurnn? >> So moved. Second. >> Let's call the role. >> Mr. Adams, >> yes. >> Miss Collins Cing, >> yes. >> Mr. Daffis, >> yes.
>> Miss Herman, >> yes. >> Mayor Duca, >> yes. Thank you very much.