I did. >> I took my sign down. They want the sign. >> They picked them up. So when you take it down >> I took it down right after election. I >> hereby announce and state that notice of this meeting was provided by a virtual
resolution scheduling a time date and place of meetings of the burough council of the bur of Morris plans for the year 2025. Which resolution was adopted by the bur council on on September 18th 2025 and published in the Morris newsp and the daily record
and by post resolution on the bulletin board in the bur hall. of the above actions being accorded with NJSA4 104-6 call >> here >> Mr. Cortez >> here >> Mr. Brun >> here
>> Mr. Houston >> here >> Mr. Ivy >> here >> Mr. here. >> Miss Vera >> here stand of America to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, liberty and justice for
all. Almighty God, we ask you to bless this governing body with an abundance of wisdom and understanding so that in fulfilling your public trust, every deliberation will result in action that promote the common good and general welfare for all the people. >> Notice the members of the governing body
staff. Any use of electronic devices during this meeting should be used only for the purpose of oral business. I do have a couple things for uh the conference. Um, I did have a nice conversation with
our postmaster at 6:00 a.m. one morning. We had to get 6 a.m. We spoke for about an hour or so. And I've been getting quite a few complaints in my office about the post office and
parking and all sorts of various things and mail being delivered. you know, when they asked for it not to be if somebody's on vacation or or not being delivered at all, period. Uh I gave him a uh
a stack of emails that I've gotten from residents throughout the years and uh he says he was going to look into it and try to improve some of the things that are going on over there and >> get his employees out of that parking
lot and other various spots in town. So I think it was a very perceptive meeting and he was receptive to what I had to say and generally cared about the about the burrow and res. So at least that's
the feeling that I got. So we'll see if uh things improve over there. I know they've made some changes already and we hope for the best over there. Uh, I don't know if anybody has noticed, but I'd like to thank the chief of the
fire department shape for getting a new fire department sign over there. It says 555. Terrific. Now, everybody will know where to find you. Uh next week I have a meeting scheduled
with representatives from Solstice uh Honeywell mentioned before previous meeting that this is an arm of Honeywell that they've changed the name I think chief has already met with them
and scheduled for next week or so that's all I Not >> some questions. First of all, we talked about the bottom number ranges to reflect
sorry to reflect the um minimum wage change this year. And the top number is was bumped up in some cases to reflect uh just to allow room for the council to decide on increases this year for salaries in 2026. So we kind of did some
math and saw where you know we added a certain percent to everybody's salary and if they were hitting or exceeding the top of the range we we just bumped it up some. So we have room to make those adjustments. So the next step is for the to count for the finance committee to meet on and discuss those
recommendations for salary increases if there will be them next year and then we will discuss those recommendations with the council. Um, just want to see if anybody had any questions about the ordinance tonight. That's what basically what it looks like. Um, and then questions I have were
so I know we talked about this recently, but I just want to kind of get it out there so we can know what next steps we have to take on the um for the capital budget. We voted to uh implement the sound new sound system, upgrade the system in this room and some video
equipment as well. And um I know we're kind of like left it hanging last time. So, I just want to know what what we're going to do to advance that because it was, you know, beginning of this year and I know that the volunteers been working hard to do that for us and I just wanted to see if we could come up
with a solution for how we move forward. >> Uh, yes. So, the uh uh I met with the mayor and he's requested that uh we sit down, myself, him, um uh the clerk, um our IT folks,
and um uh just to to discuss the proposal uh that I have just to make sure that it meets all the needs um that are there and then uh bring it home. >> That's great.
>> So, uh, but I I will say that, uh, I do have to schedule that meeting. Haven't done that yet. So, that's on me to schedule that meeting with the mayor and the folks on >> Great. That's the plan. >> Um, I know that we all received a letter email from um, downtown Mars Plains and
I believe they're going to be reading that letter tonight. I'm sure, but um, I wanted to just mention that it's been on my list to bring up at conference for like the last couple of months and I I didn't bring it up because there was enough else to talk about. I was hoping
it would come up in the reports, but um the letter from the board expressing disappointment with the lack of uh stated purpose and support for the public private partnership of Burough's business development committee with downtown Plains and they were hoping for
a little more support and collaboration and you know I know that I uh was one of the founding members and um we had plan that we had to present to the council with our mission, our uh you know stated goals and objectives and how we were planning to achieve some some
accomplishments and we got that approved by the council. We we had to constantly, you know, provide check-ins with where we were going and progress reports and we did all of that. But I haven't heard much about what we're doing and even what's, you know, at the budget meeting it came up, what are we spending this
budget of, and I think it's like a couple thousand dollars for the business development committee and I was told that they were going to come up with their plan for the year and share them with council, but nothing's really come out of that. And I, as somebody who felt kind of passionately when we started
this during It was important that we support our business community and try to enhance our our downtown. It was something that came up when I was campaigning, the first time I campaigned, and it still comes up. And uh I just want to see if we can come up with a way to maybe like write this ship
and make that somewhat of a priority again and and figure out a way that we can like be more present with this with this group of volunteers that's been so involved and um and getting our business community together, collaborating and
doing some great things for whatever the the current um status is of the BDC uh doesn't seem to be like getting it done. So I wanted to find out like what other options do you have to to kind of continue to collaborate with this group?
>> Well, that committee is getting it done Nancy and S and Tyler and myself and we've met with downtown Morris Plice or so. Um, we do have work to do. I didn't know
that there's a timeline for any of this stuff to be done. Obviously, like you said at the very beginning that we didn't bring it up, but we had a lot going on and we have had a lot going on, right? Housing question that we worked quite a long
time on. We just finished up some negotiations. The council's been very busy this year. It's not that the uh business doesn't want to do or can't do or didn't do anything. It's just a lack of time.
Busy eight hour jobs, families and all that stuff. So if there's a timeline, that's fine. Let us know if there's a timeline. You know, there's a lot of work revamping the whole business development, changing its name and maybe its direction. So that all takes time.
>> We've talked about that because we haven't come up with anything to report yet. That's what we discussed about lot of stuff going. You'll see on the consent calendar, one of the things that we did tell downtown Morris plans about it when we
met is the lights on the trees in the center of town. Every year we take that $1,000 and put string lights in in the alleys that businesses and people love. We put last year we put planters
in between the alley over there by take the $2,000 which doesn't go very far. We're going to wrap some of the trees in the center of town. You see that on the consent calendar today. Uh yesterday I got an email from uh somebody that we're working with
doing a It's a business meet and greet um with businesses in Morris Plains and from outside Morris Plains to collaborate what other businesses how other businesses can help each other. >> I'll think I'll give me a second. I'll
>> um so they're working on there's four dates that are out there. They they had two venues that they're looking at. um they've spoken to the one venue. The other venue has already gotten back to us. Um so that's in in the works. So I I won't say that the business development
committee wasn't doing anything by far. may not be as fast as everybody likes or whatever, but we're still plugging slow and steady. >> Nancy, when you created the BBC, it's it was three council people, correct?
>> Okay. Wasn't just council members. >> Started off as an advisory board. Okay. I only ask just because if there is a way and I I had mentioned it to Jason and S too >> depending what the future role is in the
collaboration with downtown Morris Plains that if we needed to bring someone in that maybe wasn't as busy you know that isn't on council or something that could help us that was a possibility but I didn't know if it had to be three council members on I guess is what I'm asking
question could it be an advisory board again should we get more public There seems to be like a little bit of lack of transparency on >> not a lack of transparency. It's just we're working on we've been busy. We haven't made a lot of progress, but we're certainly working on it. Like I
said, we know what we have to do, where we have to get there. We had how we welcoming How are we building relationships? How are we improving the look and feel of the downtown? How are we advertising? So,
and then bringing the community together. So, there it was just a little bit more strategic. >> Yeah. So, I think we've kind of gotten away from that direction of the business development. Business development. We're not trying to develop businesses. By the time businesses are here, they're already here, right? So, we haven't had
anybody come up to us say, "Hey, I want to start a business. How can I do that?" Right? So, it's not business development. So, we're changing. >> We do support the businesses. I go and meet every new one. We said that I talk to Allison when a new business she hears
something or I hear something, I let her know. I didn't hear about one. I saw it on one of her her post. We just gave them key. I invited Morris to come. I invited council to come.
So you know I think we do plenty >> sorry it's just your point right I think um personally if the mayor said the BDC has taken a new direction I would think it would be good to understand what that direction is right so whether that's in
a in a charter or in a memo or something just understand we get there have a clear path Okay. >> Is that going to be something that will be discussed
or how are we going to move forward? >> So, I had a a conversation with the chief and chief and I meet I believe it's next week. I have a small update about an update about it in my report.
>> Um just you know comments I just want to make. First of all, um I do just want to say um happy Veterans Day um for those veterans that uh that are here. Appreciate everybody's service. Um you know, it's uh country wouldn't be what
it is without our veterans. So appreciate everybody who's who's put on uniform and served. Um I do also want to say congrats to Mike and Nancy. Um you know, it was a it was a good good run. Um and congrats to both of you. Um and
then uh I do want to uh just say thanks to the to the mayor and the council um especially uh Councilwoman Berga and Councilman Pontier um stepping up over these uh these last few weeks as I've had some uh personal things going on. So
appreciate uh everybody um helping out. So thank you to >> approval of Mr. I move that the means of October 16, 2025 be approved.
>> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Second by all in favor. >> Oppos approval consent calendar. Approval of consent agenda police department October 2025 animal licensing October 25
building inspection 202 resolution 2025-130 resolution of the burough council maring systems NJW CPS resolution 13125
132 taxes that's repetitive separate resellation of taxes resolution 133 of resolution 202534 entitled
resolution requesting approval of revenue and appropriation NJSA 487 resolution 2025-135 entitled resolution approval of items of revenue NJSA 4A semi-7A
northeast New Jersey division of highway safety pedestrian safety resolution 36 entitled Knights of Columbus number 352-25
council authorized October 22 council approve the closures to allow an extension block for the annual Christmas tree lighting held on Sunday December 72 at 6 p.m.
Department of Public Delta [Laughter] really >> if you're not Italian. >> I'll never win an election. >> Can we get a proper pronunciation? What's the proper pronunciation?
Kazmazer be classes for registered machines be promoted to the position of operator in the department of public works and granted the appropriate hourly increase effective November 1st 2025.
Christian the position of truck driver in the department public works and granted the appropriate hourly increase. Michael Johnson plumbing official in the absence of James. be authorized to advertise
for monthly mainten New Jersey center and receive for Christmas trees Christmas lights open Christmas 3838.50 is to 158 road
the amount of Is there a second? >> Second. >> Second by Mike. Roll call, please. >> Mr. Cortez. >> Yes. >> Mr. B. >> Yes. >> Mr. Houston. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Yes.
>> Okay. Moving on to reports that department head. >> Okay. Thank you, mayor. I don't have a lot today. Uh the clerk's office is working on medical open enrollment, professional service contracts for next year, election, wrapping up elections, and the ongoing death certificates and
marriage certificates. And they're slowly starting to prep for next year's rewarding. The first office also is overseeing helping you with the personnel manual. We met with the burough attorney and labor attorney to discuss changes to the manual and we're waiting for a couple of additional changes on clarifying
vacation and sick time and then we'll circle to the council next week. take a look and see the changes for you so you can see what's coming and let us know if you have any questions and we'll hope to introduce that in December. Finance the CFO as you saw is working on
two new veteran exemptions for property taxes. The resolutions we voted on tonight paying off a bond of $560,000 and our school quarterly school payment of $1.72 million. Also working on two chapter 159s which I wish to see if I
can adjust the budget based on additional revenue the bureau received after the budget is adopted. So more details to come on that the next council meeting and then I wanted to share a correspondence. I don't know if this is the right time, Rosemary or um one of
our Eagle Scouts reached out to me, a recent Eagle Scout, Arman Johi. He completed his project this spring to he and his troop built those raised beds at the community garden so that our senior citizens could participate in gardening without, you know, having to go to the
ground and eating and all that stuff. So, making the garden more accessible for all. So, he sent me this email. I'd like to thank the town council, the DPW, and the garden committee for all of their help with my Eagle project. I hope that the garden beds will be put to good use. I've also given a check with the
excess funds from the project's fundraising, which I hope can be used by the town garden for their needs. Thank you again, Arma Yoshi. He did a great job. I love the check was for $109 and change that they had left over from their bill. So, nice young man with a
nice another nice project. Moving on to public safety, Mr. Mayor. >> Thank you, Mayor. Just wanted to start by thanking all of our public safety and first responders for their hard work in keeping the burrow safe during the pumpkin illumination, which was a blast. Also,
thank you to downtown Morris Plains for that. Uh, also with the Halloween parade at the schools and on Mountain Way in the afternoon. Uh, Halloween's potentially my favorite day in this town and I just think it's a really, really great time. Uh they were also also crucial in the bonfire and what a fun
night that was as well. And let's also not forget the education foundation 5K run. So again, thank you very much to the police department, all of our first responders for working hard to keep the residents of the burrow safe. Our 19th police officer and most recent hire, Noah Rodding, will begin on Monday,
November 17th. He will have around a 10-week field training and then be able to be individually assigned to shifts. We're excited to welcome him to the community of caring. With the 19th officer, the department will be implementing a new traffic unit starting in January. These shifts will focus on
commuting times and add an officer to the busiest times of the day, hopefully ensuring less accidents, speeding, illegal parking, reckless driving, etc. Keeping pedestrians a little safer in the crosswalks. Um, there's also going to be a detective transition coming up. Detectives in the burrow work on a
two-year shift and the department will be looking to fill one of the open slots with the current patrolman. The deer calling is still in effect that started on September 13th and the last day for that is February 21st. Uh I do not have a account of the deer that have
been uh yes. Thank you. the the chief in the police department have also been very helpful in working once with the ordinance committee which I'm also on in moving along some of the complex ordinances like the boarding
ordinance we'll be introducing soon. Um as everyone probably saw the public referendum question was a no. It was about a 6040 no from the people that did vote. With that being said, uh the council and the PD are going to kind of go back to the drawing table and see if
there's something small we can do on site in order to help the PD comply and work efficiently. Obviously, we're not going to be looking at an 8 to10 million renovation, but we'd at least like to see if there's something that we can do to improve the public safety conditions
here. So, definitely stay tuned on that. But again, we will obviously not be doing the 8 to12 million plans. The public safety committee will be meeting on November 17th with Chief Krasi to go over some of the high level issues and other pressing issues. The complete and
green streets committee has met twice since the last council meeting, most recently this past Tuesday. We've done a deep dive into the state policy and checklists and have started a draft policy for Morris Plains. We still have three meetings left, but I'm proud to say that we've made some great progress and have an incredible committee. So
stay tuned on that front as well. Uh, the police department also had a very successful prescription drug takeback on October 25th. I met with fire prevention chief Chris Shay last week. We discussed the past year and some improvements that can possibly be made to the position going
into 2026. Typically, there's around a 100 inspections each month. We discussed next year there's going to be a pretty large increase with the ordinance that we passed to inspect the multif family dwellings in town. So, we do expect potentially an extra few hundred inspections a year and just what we can
do to make sure we're on top of that, prepared, planned out, etc. Um, we will also be looking into the fee schedule and just making sure that that is in line and if we want to change it or adjust it moving forward. And Chris also attended a smoke detector class at the
public safety academy on November 7th. the fire department, uh, correct me if I'm wrong, they might come up, is around 400 calls for the year. That's an incredible number, uh, and we're very proud of how hard they're working. There was some supplies ordered in the past month for the apparatuses, and we're
still expecting the new mini pumper to come in around spring of 2026. As the mayor said, you may notice that uh, beautiful new sign that's outside 555 that lets us know the fire and the fire prevention are there. And I do plan to have also a public safety meeting just to meet with the um the fire chiefs as
well again just to make sure that we're here to support them. They have everything that we need and we can be there uh you know again to support them moving forward. >> So for me >> welcome lieutenants. We have lieutenants and more lieutenants and chiefs here than Indians. So that's is this is
>> I don't know who's >> Yeah, I'll give it Mr. Mayor. Uh first off, uh Chief Proy apologizes he couldn't be here this evening. You have a prior family obligation to attend to. We have the pleasure of myself and Lieutenant Gil being here. Um really
Tyler hit a lot of it. Just two things just want to touch on is we tomorrow we will complete two state mandated uh trainings. Beginning of this month we did active shooter training. We teamed up with the Mars County Sheriff SER team over at Burough School. just kind of
refresh everything that uh that they they train with us. Sergeant Kelly, our instructor and tomorrow we complete our defensive tactics training. Uh it's with detective Sorado and Sergeant Kelly again. That's been a phenomenal training. Um today I
went I went against the chief was a former collegiate wrestler so I'm a little tired. He goes to work but it was fine. It was good. It was good training. That's all I got. Very good. Um Gil, do you have anything while you have a nice Catholic audience about sir? >> Uh, we have a meeting scheduled for next
week. Um, it'll be our second meeting due to the uh government shutdown. The FEMA website wasn't working. Uh, so you couldn't take the online training that I'm requesting everybody to take. Um, hoping that's going to be up and running soon. It's as of now, I don't believe this is back up and running yet. Uh, but
we're going to continue all the training. I've been waiting for some clarification from the county. Um, but plan is we have around 15 members currently looking for as many members of the community no matter what age 18 to um if you can walk or even if you can't
I'm interested in having you available. Um so we we're going to the plan is to meet once a month um to do various trainings that could help you or your family or us in a time of need in case of a disaster situation. Um the primary focus that we're going to be working on
with the residents is anybody that wants to be a part of the community emergency response team is be more present at the events to help us with events. Um you know stand at a post give out water uh help with the burough events because you know we have many and they're growing by the by the year. So uh I encourage you
if you have any interest reach out to me. My uh email is on the website. I'll send you all the information and uh get the ball rolling. But if you want to reach out in the very near future, we can probably get you to the meeting next week. So that's the 17th. I believe it's
Wednesday, whatever that is. >> You guys did you connect with those guys sometimes go to community ham radio. So >> I'm sorry, one more time. >> Ham radio operators that are in town that sometimes are at the community
garden doing their thing. Are they >> There was There was one that was involved. >> Well, he was at the last meeting, wasn't >> he? Yeah. It's it's unique unique situation. Everybody brings to you know what I explain to me is everybody brings a
unique uh perspective to the situation that's non police related, not first responder related. You know, I've been a cop since I was an adult, like out of college. So, my expertise is in law enforcement, but somebody that's wellversed in has a skill set in something else brings a lot to the table
that I'm not going to think about in an emergency response type situation. Um, so everybody, no matter what your background or capabilities that you think you have, you have a spot on the on the search team. So, if you're interested, please uh reach out, tell your uh friends, family, uh children, if
they want volunteer hours, we can help them with that. So, good program. There was a really a diverse group of people and I think you went around one of the guys went around just as what they did. People build stuff. They were ham radio
guys, electrician kind of guy. There was so everything like you said everybody brought a little something different to watch. So thank you guys. Appreciate it. >> Chief Chief
That kind of sounds like the volunteer fire department. >> Bring everybody together, >> right? >> All got some good news. >> The sign is up.
>> I love it. Thank you. >> If you divide it up for a past couple of years, right, you're all good. >> Yeah. Right. And next thing uh the mini committee will be going out on
December 10. So looks like we're moving on. Hopefully it'll be done sooner than we were doing hot dogs. We did the bonfire.
Now we have Christmas trees coming up. So everybody VFW in the fire department >> we did 500 hot dogs. >> No 600 hot dogs. Yeah. 600
Tyler. Yes. Close. Close. >> All right. >> Tomorrow. You never know. >> Keep up the good work. Thank you guys. Thank you. >> Public works, Mr.
just to tap into the Halloween parade. I do appreciate police department, fire department, DW, recreation, auxiliary, thank funeral home, whether it was a donation or physically being there helping. It's a pretty big setup for about two or three hours and it lasts I
think it's like 30 or 40 minutes and it's just all gone. Munchkins are all gone, hot chocolate, hot dogs are all gone. So, it's it's a big event, but I do appreciate myself really You know, I traveled a little bit afterwards just dropping stuff off and I
liked the lights in that solid state. That was pretty cool and pretty visual for everybody. I thought that was a a great touch to keeping the kids safe and visitors and everything like that. So, >> yeah. And then police the police patrol and the bike patroller out. So, that was
a I like that also easier maneuverability out there. So, that was a great job. I really like that the lights. I think that was a good touch to keep everybody safe. I know touch on it. I also really like the pumpkin illumination again. Oh my gosh. Very talented people.
I always cheated and got the book. >> Somebody did the whole thing. >> I know. That's so great. But I was like a photograph. That was I enjoy that. Also, DPW uh they our two mechanics continue
work on our vehicles. removes the garbage from our parks which sometimes gets cluttered over there. They're still cutting grass. I think that's coming to an end. They're obviously out there getting all the leaves. They did put a new water fountain over at Simon Park. I remember when I first moved across there was like
a nice thing to have came back. That's a nice touch for everybody. They did winterize the bathrooms at community park and park in help trim some trees set up for the pump organ.
They did bonfire with the bonfire set up success. They've done four leaves or rounds of leaves which equal 1,320 yards of leaves which sounds like a lot. did some curb repair all here by the firehouse set up for
election day and they have started setting up the snowflakes if you haven't looked up the snowflakes are up and Christmas lights they ordered a lot of the new newly planted trees so appreciate all your work out there just to piggy back on you first make
sure that you have the bathroom doors locked some sort of clasp and a lock out because somebody opened it up last year and the water's off. So, make sure that it's locked up with
only >> uh No, >> thank you, mayor. Uh just an update on our ongoing projects. The Route 53 sidewalk I last month was done. Now we've submitted it to D as officially completed so they can make their
inspection. We expect that to happen in November before the end of November and once that happened and we can get our payment >> they did a fantastic job they were there. >> Yeah, we were we were very
second project road here that's also done. We submitted that to D for their final inspection so we can get that grant closed out. That could be two, three, four weeks. I don't know. They don't move that
quickly. Um the Capitol Road project, the eight the eight roads. The only thing left on those is the street sign. There's six street signs that still haven't acquired. I've been chasing the contractor for a schedule.
So, but he has not responded. So, I will keep following up on it. But there are street signs up. The old ones are up. So, there's no no impact waiting for And the last thing is the uh community park trail project. I
submitted our plans to Mars County Park for the 27th of October. They made a review and response. We got a letter from the executive director, Mr. Plinger, I think it is. I'll be meeting with him next Thursday,
Friday to go over that review and respond to his comments and requests and hopefully get that approved and move forward. >> Thank you very much. Public buildings and grounds that were
they get I'm sure you think or >> No, they're going to be done in the spring. >> Yeah. So, we were we had a meeting with with the water authority, the cont. >> Oh, yeah. No, Leon was there. I'm sorry. So, myself and Leon with
the water authority and the contractor. They tried to get it the side done at least. They run out of time. They can't get it done. Yeah, we we tried but you heard that right.
>> We tried. All right. Thank you, Mayor. I'll start off with the farmers market. Just a reminder that the winter farmers market is scheduled for Saturday and opportunity to support our local downtown businesses which is a big part
of what marketing holiday to contribute toys for tots toy drive partnership with our department in addition to food donations for food drive.
We hope to see everyone there and have surprises. God bless you. Just remind the winter farmers market. >> We laugh at the holiday season. >> Did you hear me? >> I got it.
Recreation report. Winter programs have been promoted to the public which include gingerbread mommy and me indoor sports during the day, watercolor classes, Zumba, yoga, pickle ball, and cheerleading programs for first and second graders. Recation has started
promoting a town New Jersey that was last time. Game is March 8th versus Detroit. Town has reserved seating and an opportunity to shoot the ice after the game. There are some special events. Jigsaw puzzle competition was November and on
12th was very successful. The event filled up with I stopped in there. I couldn't believe it. People love to do >> I couldn't understand all the puzzles. They only had two pieces.
>> Pieces like this >> 300 shade tree update. They met on for the last meeting. Uh today 13th they put the final 10 trees of the yearly planting and they're done. This brings our total trees to plant to 60
trees. This includes the 18 trees and you guys saw on route 53. With aggressive planting push this year, we were able to more than triple what was planted last year and ensure we have a zero tree loss policy. Any
planted either the location of the tree that was removed for another location. The last round of discussion last week I showed up at quarter 4.
Two fire trucks pull up south. Is the parade cancelled? There's nobody. Nobody did. By 4:00, 500 kids. It was amazing. And what a success. And thank you all that helped out.
Your kids are so happy. So a lot of good stuff happening and personally as a council I've gotten so many compliments for all my board me what we do and the
activities we have They're able to um spray with a certain chemical at certain time that doesn't necessarily from what I was told kill them completely. It just prolongs the life of the tree. Right now
they can do that much more. It's just a weird way that fly works. Weird way. >> They tell you got to kill them, but they jump backwards. >> You can't sneak up on them. >> You can't sprint. You got
>> kill them. Kill them. >> Moving on. Public health, sanitation, and sewers. Mike. All right. Meeting everyone. I'm going to start with the Municipal Alliance. Uh so a few Saturdays ago, the Adams, our stage fund had their show,
Adams Family, uh musical. Uh it was a great show. The kids did outstanding. It was really fun, really fun to watch. Uh and did a really great job. Um they're continuing to plan the events for the the remainder of the school year. Next one will be Friendsgiving, so it's open to all families that are in the school
district. It's Friday, November 21st at 6 p.m. in the Burough School Cafeteria. Um, and then, uh, we were pleasantly surprised to see that the, uh, Morris County Volunteer of the Year is Roseria
Denova, and she's actually here tonight. >> All of her contributions to the municipal Alliance. So, I'm going to embarrass her a little bit. Read what was submitted to the county. >> Oh my god, >> she has to do a speech, too. photo.
So, Rosaria initiated and led impactful programs like family fitness day, collaborated on extra school events, and assist a variety of projects to engage families. She builds strong partnerships with vendors, schools, and town officials, ensuring each project success. Beyond events, she advocates
for community needs such as scooter safety education. Rosera's commitment, creativity, and ability to inspire collaboration make her an invaluable asset to our community and a deserving recipient of this award. We are very lucky to have you involved. So congratulations. >> Congratulations.
[Applause] >> So for team center, you heard in the sense agenda that we just uh hired Matthew Lorettto. He's a a recent graduate from University background in sports management and he's uh he was on the baseball team. So that's why I hired him.
Um and then he's involved a lot in the Dville camps. Uh he's very focused on uh being a good mentor to the kids, having them look up to him. So, he was a perfect be a great asset for the town. We're looking forward to him first events. Uh next up, we're going to be the uh the Halloween dance. It's a
little bit after Halloween. So, it'll be costume optional. Then, we'll be having the scavenger hunt and then continue to plan the winter wonderland event that will be in December. Uh moving on to board of health, uh wellness day was was great. There were
14 vendors um in addition to cancer screenings, blood work and flu vaccinations. Uh 76 people received the vaccinations and it was about evenly distributed between uh pediatrics, adults and seniors which is a great sign. So the pilot program would went great. Uh so they've already started
discussing how we uh they can improve on it for next year. Uh January 10th, uh the rabies vaccination clinic will be at the DPW uh with uh January 17th being the snow date. Um there's going to be an online form this year which will be a
lot easier than the people forms in the past. Uh so as this gets a little bit closer, we'll get a QR code out. So if anybody wants to register, we can do it that way. And lastly, for recycling, uh the recycling committee brought to my attention the two a company called book
draft. They are it's basically just a container where they'll take uh recycle books that you're trying to get rid of. It's a proper way to proper way for them to pick them up uh rehome them or get put them into a proper place for recycling. There's a facility in Pennsylvania that'll turn it into
chipboard for games or things like that. So, it's a lot better than just throwing it out in single street recycling. Fantastic. The ordinances of public utilities. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Good evening, everybody. Um uh first, I I do want to
um again thank the uh the ordinance committee. Um the mayor and the council for advancing the occupancy of dwelling dwelling ordinance. Um and we're looking to introduce that on December 4th. So, thank you all for assisting with that. Um tonight on the agenda you'll see that
there are two ordinances that are going to be introduced tonight. Uh the first is regarding burrow employee salaries and longevity. Uh this ordinance sets the salaries for all burough employees including the mayor and council, the clerk, construction officials, the police chief, DPW, uh the recreation
committee and among others. Uh the second is regarding an amendment to ordinance 1423. The ordinance will remove drive-through restaurants as approved uses in the B2 zone. This doesn't change anything that's currently planned for that zone, but any future development where applications have not
been received yet will be subject to this change. Put it put a different way, um, as the McDonald's application was filed prior to this ordinance, nothing changes there. But if for some reason that project is not completed or falls through in some way and the application is canled and any new applications for
that property uh cannot include drivers. Um on the uh construction office update of the month of October 2025, our annex office collected uh 28,13534
in fees and they also responded to a total of 67 overall reports um uh application process updates. So the application committee uh which is comprised of myself uh Mr. Ryden, Mr. Gagley is the chair of the planning
board and Mr. Schultz chair the board of adjustments. Uh we've collected all the comments from the boards uh regarding updating the application process. Uh the committee had a meeting earlier this week and is preparing a final draft for the council's review. Um I think it's worth noting that the committee's goal
is to update the application process to be more streamlined and easier for all applicants. Uh to assuage any confusion, I want to be clear that the committee is not reviewing or revising any processes related to the actual hearings. Um the committee is simply updating the
checklist that needs to be presented to the board uh before they can be heard by the boards. Um board update uh the October 20th planning board meeting uh the board reviewed application PB1-25 Rivian LLC for completeness. Uh for those that are
not aware, Rivian is a is building a service center on the old Acme site. Um after reviewing the various checklists and the items that were missing, the board deemed the application administratively incomplete. >> Uh this means that the application needs uh the applicant needs to fix the items
and resubmit the application uh which they are doing at the next meeting which is on Monday at 7:30 p.m. uh here in this room. uh zoning board of adjustment. Uh the October 27th uh meeting was cancelled and their next
zoning board of adjustment meeting is Monday, November 24th at 7:30 p.m. Um Mr. Mayor, do you want to say anything about the affordable housing at all or so? I think I mentioned at the last meeting. I think I did I have a
conference hearing with the judge and our attorney. Uh I believe it's Tuesday. >> The 18th is Tuesday. So that'll be later in the afternoon and we'll see where that all goes. If it finishes there,
we'll see what happens. >> Keep our fingers crossed. some decisions. >> Just I I just need to clarify one thing in something that you said the ordinance 1025 salary ordinance. It's just the
range of each position not position not just anywhere. Thank you for >> Thank you for your report. Now, we invite any members of the public who wish to speak to step up and say your name and address.
Cooper Johnson. >> Hello. >> So, firstly, I would just like to thank the council for moving the executive session towards the end of our meetings. As the person who is recording all of these, it's very useful to all have it in just one continuous file that's able
to be posted online and anyone can watch it and have it at any moment there. It really instead of having to split it up into parts water part two or have people who are watching the live stream right now have to leave and then re-enter after every time after the executive session. It just is a lot more
convenient for those who are also just can't show up here and want to watch it online. Also, as just a high school student myself there, it's extraordinarily convenient to also not spend another hour here just waiting out in the lobby doing some homework maybe.
Instead, I can get to go study for, you know, whatever tests, quizzes I have next. So, again, thank you to the council for moving that executive session and congratulations to Councilwoman Vera and Councilman Ivy on their recent re-elections. Thank you.
>> Sweet Jacket, Cooper. Hi, good evening Mayor >> Williams. Um, so I'm here tonight to speak on behalf of plans. Um, Mayor Carr soon will begin the important work of selecting appointees for the planning
board, zoning board of adjustment, and other committees in preparation for the burough reorganization meeting in January. State law and local ordinances give you the power to you alone as mayor to decide who will serve on many of the bureau's committees, and those you choose will make decisions that affect
our lives for decades to come. With this in mind, Pan Better Morris Plains would like to make two points we want you to consider when making your appointments. First, we want to note the incredible range of experience and talent in Morris Plains. Among our neighbors are trades
people, scientists, engineers, business owners, doctors, teachers, and firefighters. All of whom have valuable perspectives to share. While many of these residents have voiced interest in doing work with the community, they have also told us that they are unsure how to
get involved. To ensure our committees represent our best talent and ideas, the bureau needs to do a better job in reaching out to all of our residents through the town website and emails and providing interested applicants with a clear process and timeline for appointments.
We should be making every effort to recruit broadly from the talented residents here in town by advertising these openings and creating a transparent application process. Second, our burough form of government allows the mayor to vote when there is a tie.
But this is balanced by the mayor having the enormously influential power of appointing committee members. The planning board will soon embark on a master plan review and who you appoint to fill this year's planning board vacancies will decide what our downtown looks like for decades to come. Your
appointees to our other town committees will have both immediate and lasting effects on our neighborhoods and quality of life. This is why we ask that when making these appointments, you choose strong voices who will ask difficult questions, attend meetings prepared, and
who are willing to do the hard, often invisible, behind the scenes committee work that keeps Morris Plains a wonderful place to live. Perhaps most importantly, we ask that you choose people who come to every meeting with an open mind and listen to the needs and concerns of their neighbors and do so
without judgment. Next year, we celebrate the bureau's 100th anniversary. Who you choose to serve on these committees will shape how residents see our local government and what the burrow looks like. Not just for this year, but for the next hundred years to come. The members of plan
better planes along with the whole burrow will be waiting to see your vision. Alison White >> I'll spell it for you. So, we are representing all of downtown Wars plans tonight, but only the three of us are able to join. And um Councilwoman Berga, thank you for
raising the topic of the email that we sent. Um I do have that and we will read that, but first we wanted to share a few updates with everyone. So, as we've heard a couple times, the pumpkin illumination was a huge success. Um thank you so much to Lieutenant Gild
especially who played a huge role, to the full police department, DPW, and the council for all of your support. Our next business roundt will be on December 10th at 8:30 a.m. So, this one is hosted by Wikert and it will be at the Lawrence on Johnson Road, which is technically
outside of Morris Plains, but still close enough. Um, but White is going to present an update on their plan on their um development project. So, we're hoping that will attract a good crowd. Um maybe a different mix of businesses this time.
Burrow Bucks, you've probably seen we're introducing this year. We hope it's that will be bigger in future years. This is a little bit of a trial year, but we've invited all Morris Plans businesses to sign up. Um, and in order to do so, they
really just have to be willing to accept and honor a gift certificate. So, at the Winter Market, we will have a list of all businesses that have agreed to participate. We are up to 11 right now and a really good mix of businesses. Um, it's obviously not a fit for all of them, but we have 11 now. We will list
them. people can come up to us at the market, purchase gift certificates for Robots for one of those businesses. Um, and for every $50, Downtown Mars Planes is adding an additional five. So, it's a way to encourage people to purchase these gift certificates and a little a
nice little extra incentive for the businesses. So, we'll see how it goes. Obviously, Morristown is an example of a town that has a very well-developed program. They sell a ton of Morristown partnership. I don't forget what term
they use, but there's a very long list of businesses. You can use those for any of the businesses. So, um we are not yet in a position to do that, but we'd love to do that at some point. Um we'll also be giving away the 2025 downtown Morris Plains ornaments again this year for
anyone who shows proof of a local purchase of $10 or more. It's just a small gesture, but a nice way just to encourage and celebrate people shopping locally that day and hopefully throughout the year. So, make sure you shop local and come get that ornament because we will run out this week.
>> We're determined. >> Yes. And and the winter market this year is Small Business Saturday. So, that so that's why we'll be handing them out there. Um and then last on the list for now at least, um we've only announced this on social media. We did share it with you directly as the council. Um but
New Jersey Transit's 2026 transitional arts project um they're still in 2025 mode, but we are already excited and ready for them to announce the big news for next year. Um, as we shared, this is a each year they pick one town and
through a $30,000 grant and a selection of an artist, they um install a single temporary, but it could be several years art installation on in or around their station. So, more to come there, but
that's really exciting and certainly could not be better time than for our cent. And so, Unless there are any questions on any of those, I'm happy to read the email. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So, what what time is December 8th? >> 8:30 or 10 or
>> Oh, December 10th. 8th 8:30 in the morning. >> Yes. And so that I don't think we have I checked that today. I think that just went out this week. I know I copied the um BDC on that. I think we only have a few businesses signed up so far. So,
we'll do some more pushing that just but hopefully All right. So, this email, I will just read it so that we're sure that I read out what you all receive, too. Um, and really just before I do read that, I
want to say that this was not so much to express disappointment, but truly just so that we have some more clarification. It's easier for us to plan if we have a good sense of where the council as a whole stands in terms of what an ideal partnership looks like, how we can best
collaborate and work together. Um, because we were incorporated one way, right, as an outcome of that initial group. Um, and so now if things change, and certainly all things change and evolve, the more information we have, the better we can make. We are still a
small board, a small team. So the more we know, the better. So, dear members of the council, I'm writing on behalf of the board of downtown Morris Plains to request clarification regarding our partner partnership with the business development committee BDC so that we can
plan effectively for the year ahead. We're in the home stretch of 2025 and for a variety of reasons, the BDC and DMP have not collaborated on anything in two years since Small Business Saturday 2023. This is hot chocolate on speedball. This has been disappointing
given how integral this partnership was to the founding of downtown Morris Plains. In 2022, following the formation of the ad hoc business development committee, several residents were asked to help explore how to best support our local business community. We concluded that creating a nonprofit organization
would be the most effective next step modeled after successful public private partnerships in neighboring towns. With the blessing of the council, support of the BDC, and the assumption that our partnership would continue, we moved forward with incorporation and hit the ground running. During our first year,
we worked closely with council members Goddard, Wagner, and Berga, generating strong momentum for both the business development committee and downtown Morris. But in January of 2024, all three members were removed from the committee and replaced with Mayor Carr and council members Cortez and Kelly.
After a few meetings with no progress, we became concerned. We were later told that the committee was unable to establish a plan due to, and this was mentioned earlier, competing priorities, including work on affordable housing and personal commitments. At the 2025 reorganization meeting, there was no
mention of the BBC. However, through follow-up, we learned that appointments would be made once Council Member Batterd's seat was filled. In May, council member Pontier was announced as the third member, and we subsequently met with Tyler and Jason in July and August. During those meetings, we
offered recommendations for collaboration, including specific ways the BBC's budget could be used to support our local business community. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, no progress has been made. Moreover, we still do not have a clear understanding of the committee's current objectives
and have been informed by Mayor Carr that both its name and mission may be changing. The burough's website still lists former council member Kelly as a member and the content has not been updated since 2023 with the exception of the link to Downtown Morris Plans business director. As we plan for the
coming year, we respectfully request clarification on the council's intent for the BDC and whether the council's willingness to partner with Downtown Morris Plans has changed. If members of the committee do not see value in the original mission of the BBC, will new members be appointed next year? We do
know that several council members are deeply committed to supporting our local business community and we remain eager to collaborate toward that shared goal. Just the end promising to be here tonight. So, we're not going to solve it tonight. I know you've talked a little bit about your thoughts tonight. um if
we can answer questions, if there's anything you'd like to share now, certainly we're open to it. But >> so I just you sent that email and I know we've gone over this before, so you got to kind of remember you can't send it to
the entire council all at once. If you have something, if you have something, it should go through her and then she can distribute because then people can't discuss that kind of stuff all together. So number two, I don't think anybody was
removed from the business. I think people didn't want to continue doing that if I remember correctly and I actually wanted to continue that's my best
one. I think all the council members here and especially myself support business whe you know I take a lot of time talking to business owners seeing their concerns probably daily
relationship most if not all soc is always there always conversation before again specific timeline and there are other
things that are take priority over over certain things but more than happy and willing to work with whatever whoever business >> as an adop like what are the requirements of an ad
hoc committee that I know but I do not know the definition of an adop >> so I'm asking because it seems like it would be reasonable at a minimum for presidents to expect and we hope to expect from this committee
to understand purpose objectives have quarterly updates at a minimum. I mean those seem like basic >> possible participant but it's certainly possible. >> Okay. I mean it's hard for me to imagine
the purpose of an ad hoc committee that doesn't report any action. So part of the we're inquiring today is because we don't know any information about what the council is doing towards supporting these things
and we have had meetings and we have not learned anything subsequent to those >> right we have not gotten back to you we've met and we haven't gotten back to you we're not 100% clear on which way our new brand is going to be
>> it's been almost two years you said >> well it's been a This is the second last year. >> It's been this year that we sat down and discussed and talked. >> Again, I didn't know that there's a specific timeline and I don't know
whether I can meet those timelines orderly or what have you. We certainly do the best that we can forward. >> It's not a question of your commitment to businesses. We know that the full council is very supportive of all of our local businesses. I think the question
is is there still a public private partnership between the council and our nonprofit organization as intended and as is modeled very very successfully in other towns and if so does it need to look like something else if it's not the
BDC is it I don't know >> you know the the town certainly supports everything that you do whether it's directly business development committee or other services in the town so I mean that that is never an issue or hasn't been an issue forward
whether the business development committee is directly involved with you or however it works on or I mean I think everybody is working fantastically you've had some terrific events created some terrific uh relationship with businesses and
sponsors and everything else I mean your work is is tremendous not I have property in Marstown. Someone moves out. You're the first person I call and they say, "By the way, this guy's a
space. This guy is big." And I think that for some reason you're beating yourself up. You're doing a great job. It's just that we're not and whatever you've done is is great and you're there. someone moves in. Okay,
tell me what kind of scores do you have? What is that? I've got so much information from the partnership and that was the first person I called before the realtor and just it's a smaller area. That's the only thing. But you guys have done a fantastic job and
and I think I'm sensing you guys want to do more. You want, you know, build more bonds and with us. So, we're lucky that we have you because you know exactly store owners and I I think you created a lot of bridges that
you guys really have not gotten the credit for between the town and store owners >> that we didn't have what we have today 5 10 years ago where you know with the farmers market I got to meet even myself
store owners which is you know and that was all started by by these ad hoc organizations but I I can't just say you're going to have that traffic um It's not going to happen. Certainly the job done
in >> but at the same time like it seems like you guys want to do more and do more work. I'm trying to say the area marketing area is a little more a little bit limited. I love the fact that you have that fire to do more and want more
and as a councilman, I thank the Lord. It's just one one great thing to have and that's >> and that's actually a really good example of one of the ways we can bring value and something that we brought up at a meeting. Um I know you weren't able
to be there but we said often people come I think we're in Italy you were in a far place but um people come to us and they'll say what is vacant in town and so we pose the question who should Who do you want us to direct people to?
If it's about right and we we went through a few different questions and we didn't have a clear answer. So that's an example of something very simple. >> I mean I think I gave you that answer and that was the zoning official. Everybody should start there, right? What kind of business is it? What's known for whatever business you're
opening and let's see what's very So it's >> and a couple years ago that was one of the things that the BBC at the time was doing was compiling a lot of that information so that it was kind of a one-stop shop. It made it easy. So if
someone was looking at Morris planes as well as a few other towns, they had quick answers and obviously it's impossible to know, you know, every single vacancy all the information. A lot of it is word of mouth. But if we can help make it for businesses
prospective businesses all >> but we hit a lot of roads when we're trying to I think we saw obstacles as that we couldn't handle without being a nonprofit there's a lot of grants out
there but the grants I know they do require that collaboration with the town they want to show they want us to show that there's a commitment of from the burough government to a nonprofit. Usually it's financial, but it's definitely a documented partnership and
that what that's what opens the doors for all the grants and all the good things that you can do together. Um, and I think when we worked with that group of residents to try to encourage someone to step up and create this nonprofit, we also knew that that would enable you to
do fundraising, which we as federal government, we can't accept money for outside of our taxes for projects. So it you guys stepped up and provided that opportunity for fundraising and sponsorships and things like that which
has really opened doors. But I think um I feel that if you don't feel supported by the burrow I know we all love our businesses but I think that the work you're doing is stuff that goes beyond the scope of government. Uh you know a lot of these you know events and roundts
and things like that are beyond the scope of government. It's appropriate for profits to do that. But for us to be able to show support for that with our presence, with our involvement in your meetings, with our dollars, um even this is small budget. I don't think we have any budget right now earmarked for
downtown for these business round table meetings and things like that. And I think you know that that's a way of showing. So I think that um I appreciate you guys stepping up and I feel a little bit sad that you that that we you were
abandoned somewhat in what you're trying to do and not feeling like we're truly as engaged and uh motivated about the projects and your plan of action. So >> I don't think that they were left. I
think they're just running faster than >> whatever. We're behind downtown. >> Would it be reasonable to say that by the New York meeting Maybe there would be either >> you don't even know what I was gonna say,
>> but I say um even whether it is there will be a continued business development committee or if you have a new name, it's a new name just so that >> well there'll be some aspect of business. >> While I'm fresh to the BDC, uh I do want to
express my commitment to at least >> working with you better um finding a way that we can collaborate better and if that means communicating even more I I spoke you know with you earlier and just said I'm I'm happy to try to come to more events maybe not as
Tyler but as a liaison and someone that can be there for that um but I it's and as a real estate professional I might have like a little bit of an inside scoop with agents if they're showing properties things in town and
I'm happy to always bring that information public if I can, if I know it. But I definitely say I we um will meet and at least try to figure out what that path is forward. But again, know that I we are committed
to furthering the partnership. And I mean, I think you guys are amazing. So, it definitely broke my heart a little bit to get that email because I I want to be doing everything we can for you. and you guys do such amazing work that you deserve to feel supported and you
deserve to feel that, you know, admiration that I think the town has for you. >> I think it's important to say we we understand that the functions of public and private are different and that was always the original vision. So, we don't necessarily I mean, we
certainly did not come here today to ask for money. I'm never going to turn money down, but that's we But we came because we want to ensure that the businesses in our town are both
getting support from the the private side and the public side so that and that we know what one another are responsible for and what one another are doing and so that when we are supporting them we're efficient and effective and do the best that we can for that
community. So having transparency and open lines of communication when you have that plan will help us all do that. >> And I'm happy that whether it's >> well when we have that plan that will certainly happen. Yeah, whether it's the mayor, councilman Cortez, or myself, I will even personally make it a point to
try to even quarterly like you said, put in my report if what's happening, what's the collaboration been in addition to communicating better with downtown Morris Planes because again, I think there is a lot that you can do, we can't do, and vice versa. And that's where
that partnership comes in. It's like what we can't do, you can, and what you can't, we can. So over a lot of anyway, a lot of this stuff we can take the rest of it off. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> See nobody else.
>> Hi, I'm Caroline Bennett. Hello. Um, I wanted to use this time to check in on the topic of signs. Um, specifically on some of the signs that I know I think they were talked about maybe
September at this point um, related to the ordinance 6-2025. So I think those two signs have I don't know who I direct this to but the signs about the being over certain weight limit that can't be on those roads. Were
those two signs put up on the two new additions yet? >> They were not. >> And what's the status of that? >> Right. So the I think the mayor reported last time that the um uh it's with the DOT um been with DOT for quite some time. Um I did actually ask uh the chief
to send me the DOT contact um which he may have done. Um the chief reached out to them has talked about okay so so I guess to answer question is there's there's no movement on
>> don't mean to sound dense but I guess like what do we wait like five years do we like what is the next We're just at the mercy of some cont. >> So well then we'll have the chief resend another email
to some sort of bottom. >> Okay. >> I can't guarantee anything. I mean this is >> No, that makes sense. And and that's helpful because I am more invested in the sign that is currently missing on
Dayton Road. So I I have a son at Mountain Way and I do a lot of drop offs and I have seen the sign on Mountain Way that says no trucks over 8,000 pounds I think empty weight or whatever it says is there and there is not a sign like
that on Dayton Road. But when I go and I look at the do we call it the E code the code of the title. >> So if you look at that chapter 22 I think it's article five trucks excluded from certain streets
academy mountain silvin Trobridge Washington have all been on there and I don't know from what date but before this recent ordinance. So that's where I'm not understanding. If this is supposed to have a sign and
it doesn't, why doesn't Dayton have a sign? Are these two new streets going to get signs and Dayton still not have a sign? What is going on with decisions being made related to construction near Dayton and
Heavy Trust? Like it all just seems very confusing to me if somebody can help paint the picture because I'm not understanding if this is saying trucks over four tons gross weight are hereby excluded from the following streets that I just listed and the McDonald's law has
the exit coming onto Dayton that would be going against this ordinance. And so is it because the sign isn't there that those things are able to move forward or >> I believe it was covered in the in the testimony from McDonald
>> if United lines decides to move somebody out of Dayton Road. They're allowed to go on road. It's just not >> it does >> and I and I don't want to I have gone down rabbit holes in those recordings and those testimonies like it's still a favorite on my phone which might be
embarrassing but it never was actually covered off and it's because the the exception is deliveries can be made for an address on that road. So, if I get a huge truckload of French fries delivered to my house being a Dayton address, that
is allowed as I understand the law. But if the address of that lot is a Speed Well address, this does not make sense to me. So, if this article needs to be rewritten or reviewed, then I think that needs to happen in parallel to updates
being made with other ordinances related to that. That was that was covered under testimony. >> No, it wasn't. >> I'm going to kindly request then that you show me where because we have all read it and listen to it and it wasn't.
>> Okay. >> Because it was >> okay. Yeah. I mean, and I don't mean to just be bringing up out of the blue, but it's just like on the list of things that I feel like was brushed under the rug, for lack of better words. And I don't know, it's frustrating. And now
there's a huge pile of debris with honestly, God knows what is in it. And I can show you things that have blown in my backyard and I'm not even adjacent to it. and and it it's just I don't know how the town thinks that that's less of an eyesore than what was there before,
but it just feels like decisions were made and now people are like, "Oh, McDonald's is a done deal." And we don't have to worry about people being annoyed about it because that is not the case at all. Um, so this is on top of my list again. And and the sign thing is if we're ordering two signs and there's one
missing on Dayton, like let's get three. If they're going to make them for two of the streets or I don't even know if the other ones are missing, Academy, Canfield, all of these, but I don't know. I'm seeing a lot of holes and and I would love someone to help me fill those holes.
>> I don't think um I think I forget who it was last meeting brought up the same point about the signage not being there. Um actually none of I don't think any of the signage is on any of the streets that are in the
ordinance. So I think um we as as the mayor said follow up with the D try to get an answer from them and try to get the signs so that we can get those in and get those on all the streets that are in because to your point when I was
doing research on the ordinance some of these streets in the ordinance go back to the 80s where they don't so >> yeah so I I agree with you like it needs to be >> okay and I'm just going to say this and I'm not looking for a response, but if
the McDonald's property as planned and approved and whatever only works with the exit going on to Dayton, even though there is an exit and entrance on Speed Well, then I just don't see how we can all legally sit here and be like, "Yeah, it it aligns with all of our ordinances." Because I
am staring at this in black and white and it doesn't. So, unless someone can show me where it's written that it's we're not breaking this ordinance, then it's not making sense in my and I know a lot of the folks behind me. So, I will come to the next meeting and
I guess I will check in. But I appreciate you doing that, investigating that. Maybe I've overlooked. >> Are we waiting for approval for the ordinance or sign? >> The ordinance has been approved. >> Any any road Yeah. that goes any road that leads to a county or state road,
you cannot put signage on without DOT approval. So, we're waiting for the DT to approve it. on everything we can do, but we're at the whims of the DT approving it. >> Good evening. Bill Greco 98B way council lieutenants.
>> Bill, um, as a veteran, I have a concern. Uh, I'd like to know or I'd like an explanation as to what resolution 2025-131 means. >> Exception. Um, I'm actually also a
veteran myself. So, >> thank you for your service. >> Thank you, sir. >> Which one is it? >> 2025-131. >> Correct. 131. >> What does that mean? make if you apply I don't know whe state
or government >> sorry >> there's a relief on your property taxes make the reg but but this says cancellation of taxes >> veteran exemption
>> yeah it's a uh it's a certain category I can get you Okay, perfect. Appreciate that. Um, secondly, by the way, I have three comments, but they'll be under five minutes. I want to thank Bill for getting the high grasses removed from
the Kohl's plaza. It's much safer now, and they replaced them with low profile planting. So, thank you. You're >> very welcome. >> And lastly, I'd like to wish you all a happy, thankful Thanksgiving. We I am thankful for your service. I
know you're not going to please everyone all the time, but thank you for your efforts. All of you appreciate it. >> Thank you for your service. >> Thank you. Hi, >> I just after Caroline spoke I was a
little confused. Is there a clarification there only two signs ordered? >> So just to just be clear so the the ordinance that we passed added those two roads to the existing ordinance that already had four tone restrictions on I
forget half dozen eight roads or whatever whatever it is. Um when that ordinance was passed, part of it was that the um signage uh for those roads needs to be approved by DOT in order for us to put them up. That's
>> just >> well in and in in further discovery with that. We've also we've also found out that the other boats that are in that already were in that ordinance don't have that signage. Right. So um I think
the the request can be made to do signage for all of those roads, not just the two that were, >> but only if they connect with 202. >> Well, any of the roads that are in the ordinance there, the ordinance states that that they should get a sign that
says it's limited to >> I mean, I grew up on Shriek Road and there's no sign and that's been in the ordinance for years. I know there's one at the bottom of Mountain Way Hill, >> but not I I don't believe in the flats of Mountain Way there's a sign. Um, and
then Campfield doesn't connect. So, like why can't we get the signs at least to the roads that don't connect to 202 at this point? >> I mean, I'm sure that they were there originally and snow plowing knocked them down or whatever.
>> I I grew up on never in my life. >> Yeah. I mean, I don't remember either. >> I was four years old. >> Yeah. I mean, you know, I know that there's one on Mountain Way. I have no I don't have I a quick drive around and we see that there's no signs. I think the only one
that exists out of that list in the ordinance is Mountain Way, but it's only at the bottom of the hill. >> So, as as I was saying, I think it's it's a reasonable request to the DOT to take every road that is in the
ordinance, whether it was recent or previous, right? The ordinance as exist today, and ask them for signage for all They should have all those should have most of them don't >> and you need approval even if they don't
connect. >> Correct. >> Okay. That's that's why I was confused. Clarification. Um >> because I I do believe at a different meeting we were talking about how you couldn't even enforce the ordinance if there's I mean how would a truck driver
have any knowledge whatsoever? >> They can give a warning. They can't they can't. >> Right. Exactly. But then what have we been having or >> wait? We put the ordinance in place. We're waiting on to enforce that.
>> No, but I'm saying in all the years prior to adding the two, >> I don't think there's ever been a warning or a ticket written >> because no one knows about it. >> Well, because there has probably been a truck. They know about it. >> Well, there's been trucks. >> There's there's trucks all the time, but
I'm I'm just going to look into regardless of the I I was confused that that there was mention of only two signs being ordered when there's >> that was for that specific. >> So So let's just take let's say I don't have let's just say the total number of
rows that's mentioned the ordinance from because every time every time they do this they amen the ordinance right they don't rewrite it so we just added two rows to the existing so you have to go back to the original ordinance and look at how many rows there are. So, let's just say just for argument sake, let's just say there's eight roads. I'm
picking a number out of that, right? So, we we should have eight signs on one on each road um that that have that um the signage on as you found and as I've found driving around town, most of those don't exist. Right. So, then the request to do DOT
would be not just for the two signs for the new roads, but also for the additional signs that are that have been missing for years. Right. >> Has that request been made? It hasn't. And that's what that's what the mayor was saying is that I'm going to follow up with the with the DOT and the chief's help to find out what we can do about
getting that signage. >> Okay. >> I'd like to say something. Uh Jean Wman, I live on 20 Park Road. Um my questions are in regard to the community center. You you you know that we have a lot of activities going there.
The seniors go there. And my question is when is the um drinking water fountain going to be repaired? Because it hasn't been repaired in months or years. That's number one. And number two is when are we going to get that wonderful clock to
work. >> Which wonderful clock? >> The clock in the auditorium. >> It's funny you should mention that. I told him to get the batteries for the clock. >> Well, >> election day or something. >> Anyway, I'd really appreciate if those two things are taken care of.
>> That's it. >> Thank you so much. I appreciate it. Anybody else? Seeing nobody, I close the public portion. Introduction of ordinances.
>> Yes. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. [Music] In the right order here. I, Council Member Houston, introduce the following ordinance and read the same by title and move that it be passed on the first reading. Ordinance number 10-2025,
an ordinance concerning salaries and longevity pay. Is there a second? Second by Tyler. All in favor? >> I roll call, please. Mr. Cortez.
>> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. Houston. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> I, Council Member Houston, offer the following resolution. Whereas the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on November 13,
2025 and pass on the first reading. Now therefore be it resolved that a meeting to be held on December 4th, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. prevailing time at the municipal building in the said burrow. This council will further consider for second reading and final passage of the set ordinance. It be further resolved that
the clerk of this burrow is hereby directed to publish and mail the proper notice including the ordinance, post the ordinance on the bulletin board in the municipal building and to make copies available to members of the general public. >> Second by art. All in favor?
>> I opposed. Abstain. The eyes. >> I, Council Member Houston, introduce the following ordinance and read the same by title and move that it be passed on the first reading. Ordinance number 11-2025. an ordinance to provide for the partial amendment to supplementation and
revision of chapter 13 burough Morris Plains land development ordinance to amend schedule C to remove drive-through restaurants as a permitted use in the B2 business zone. >> Is there a second? Second by Nancy Roll, please.
>> Mr. Cortez, >> yes. >> Mr. Mr. Houston, >> yes. >> Mr. Mr. Yes. >> Yes, sir. >> Yes. >> I, Council Member Houston, offer the following resolution. Whereas the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on November 13,
2025, and passed in the first reading. Now, therefore, be it resolved that at a meeting to be held on December 18th, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. Time at the municipal building in the said burrow, the council will further consider for second reading and final passage said ordinance. and be
it further resolved that the clerk of this burrow be and she is hereby directed to publish and mail the proper notice thereof including the ordinance post the ordinance on the bulletin board in the municipal building and to make copies available to members of the general public is there a second
>> second by Mikey all in favor abstain the eyes have it moving on we have no ordinances on second reading we do have a resolution Okay. Uh resolution I move that resolution
number 2025-137 uh titled borrow of Morris Plains resolution opposing Senate Bill 4736 in parentheses S4736 be approved. >> Is there a second
roll call please? >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. Houston. Yes, >> this resolution is is really about affordable housing and some bills that they want to put in there taking being able to um
take different areas and develop them accessory dwelling units. um you know our opposing on all the municipalities. So, I don't know where this will go, but at least shows our opposition to it.
Governor elects for some of these things along with Governor Murphy and the legislature. >> I don't know if the governor has put an opinion on this, but this one applies specifically to certain nonprofit and
religious properties. So, The bill would allow those tax exempt organizations to develop their own property uh with affordable housing with developments that could include up to 40 residential units per acre. So
dense housing and it would allow them to exceed certain of our codes. So they would be allowed to build an extra story for example uh above and beyond what we allow in that zone. So they wouldn't have to comply with the local zoning. So
our opposition to this is not so much that we have that many properties in town ready to apply but from my position it's more that it's setting a precedent that we lose some local authority in our
own municipality to be appropriate for what our needs are for our community all those things so we'reing I am opposing it on the basis of you pushing back on losing some of our local controlision.
>> I think the whole council is on that and really people really have to pay attention to this um because it's not only coming from the state level. Um also there's talk of at the federal level of taking away some of these some of our ability to uh to zone our town to
where we want to. I think it's a very important issue um that that put on for this high pay attention to this and watch how it flows through and make sure they voices
heard all your representatives. So yeah, that that is part of this is that we're asking the public to also reach out to your representatives in opposition of this piece of legislation and our resolution will go to our local
elected officials of the state assembly and to the governor and to governor elect and the leading municipalities to express our moving forward. We have no unfinished business, no new business. We always have vouchers
I move that the checklist dated November 13th in the amount of 4,561,29841 be >> Is there a second? >> Second by roll call, please. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Houston. >> Yes.
>> Mr. Mr. Okay, we do need an executive session.