Where's Chris? weekend. >> No, >> two rubber cans. Ruby diamond be a prosperous year then >> okay usually I have to go like this and then kind of call the meeting I don't
have to do that everybody's quiet already so happy new year welcome everybody if you please join me for the pledge of allegiance of prayer uh and please remain standing for our national anthem uh sung by Nina Gingeri and also
A moment of silence. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all. See
by the dawn early light we at the twilight last stripes and bright stars
through the perilous fight. For the ramparts we watched were so gallently streams
bursting gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled
yet way for the land of the free and the And just now a moment of silence for those that we've lost in this past year. >> Thank you. So, just before we do have
our blessing, once again, a round of applause for I heard her sing at the uh Tritown uh police academy, Junior Police Academy, and uh I I heard she sang the national anthem there, and I said, I got to have her.
Thank you very much, Anna. And and just uh just a little something for you, just so you remember, I think this is the first given out for our 100th anniversary and it goes to you. >> And now our blessing from Deacon Joe Quinn from St. Virgil's.
>> Thank you, Mayor, for inviting me, council, folks, ladies and gentlemen, former Uh, presidents, it's a pleasure for me to be here. So, I'm a little nervous. I've never done this before. And normally I would uh, as an Irish guy
would speak off the top of my head, but I think this is really important. So, I kind of wanted So, let us pray. Good God, you have given us and thank you for the wonderful opportunity that we have to
live in America and the community of caring Morris Plains which celebrates its centennial year this year. We are grateful for all the volunteers for their time and talent and service to this community and especially for those
who have been elected to positions of leadership. Bless and support our mayor, our council members, and all who serve our burrow. Grant them wisdom, patience, and integrity as they deliberate the
decisions on behalf of our residents here in Mars Plains. And may their actions reflect a commitment to fairness, cooperation, and the common good. And may they guide Morris Plains along a path that benefits all who live
and work here. And can I get an amen? >> Please be seated. >> Thank you, Joe. And appreciate you coming out here this evening. And uh I've known you since I was a kid and I think this is the first time I've seen you here. So, it's a pleasure to have you here. Thank you again.
I hereby announce and state that adequate notice of this meeting was provided by virtue of a resolution the time, date, and place of meetings of the Burough Council of the Bureau of Morris Plains for the year 2025 which which resolution was adopted by the Burough Council on January 7th, 2025
and published in the Morris news in the daily record and by posting of such resolution on the voting board in the Burough Hall. All the above actions being in accordance with NJSA 10 col4-6 at 6 notice to members of the governing body and burough staff any use of electronic devices during this meeting
shall be used solely for the purpose of burrow business. Before we move forward I just like to recognize a few people that are here tonight that I that I see. Uh Lee Bender, president of the Minutemen is here. Lee, thank you. Uh, former Councilwoman Sumlusky and former
Councilman Steve Welsh is here. Anybody else? Uh, the Honorable Judge Carluchi and his wife is here. >> Justin Strickland is back there. Hello, Justin from Chadam. >> Nina Janess from the Democratic Morris
Plains Democratic Committee. >> Yep. Cara is also here. >> The county. Thank you. A statement of determination of the board of canvas can camp can campusers relative to an election held in the
burrow of Mars Plains County of Mars in state of New Jersey for the election of certain municipal officers from the municipality on the 4th day of November 2025. The said board does determine that at the said election, Nancy Berga,
Burough Council, three years. Michael Ivy, Burrow Council, three years, was or were duly elected to the office and for the terms set above set forth. I do ser do hereby certified that the foregoing is true, full and correct statement of
the determination of the board of canvasers therein mentioned. So, it's my pleasure to speak about someone who has stepped forward with a deep commitment to public service and civil engagement. It's Councilman Mike Ivy. So valued I didn't know where you were
sitting. And a valued member of Morris Plainsboro Council. Mike and his family have proudly called Morris Plains home for over a decade. And for more than 12 years, they built their lives here. participating wholeheartedly in community life. Mike's service to Morris
Plains began long before he joined the council. He's been active in the Morris by the Morris Plains Green Team, contributing to sustainability and environment environmental stewardship efforts in our community. In early 2025, Mike was unanimously appointed by his federal council members to fill a vacant
seat, demonstrating the trust and confidence his colleagues have in his leadership and judgment. His initial term on the burough council ran out December 31st, 2025. And in November 2025, and in the November general November 2025 general election, he was
elected to a full full term, affirming and supporting the Morris Plains residents. On council, Mike serves as chair of the public health sanitation and sewer committee. In this important role, he oversees issues that directly affect the well-being of our residents, from sanitation and recycling programs to sewer contracts and efforts to
support clean community initiatives. He also acts as the council liaison to board of health, the municipal alliance and the teen center and the recycling committee, ensuring strong strong coordination between the council and these vital community organizations.
You are ready. Bible for you. My wife will hand right in front is great. >> That's okay. >> Left hand on the Bible. Right hand held up. Repeat after me. I, Michael Ivy, >> I, Michael Ivy,
>> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> I will bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same
>> and to the governments established >> to the governments established >> in the United States >> United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully >> and I will faithfully >> impartially and justly >> impartially and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties
>> of the office of councilmen >> of the office of council >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> Help me God. >> Congratulations. FLOOR is yours, Mike. A lot of holidays and celebrations the last couple weeks.
>> Good evening everyone. It is truly an honor and a privilege to stand here before you tonight as an elected council member of the Burough Forest Plains. On the same evening last year, I was sitting amongst you all, uncertain what the coming year might bring. Just two weeks later, I was appointed to council and soon thereafter found myself in the
middle of a campaign. To fel to say it felt like drinking from a fire hose would be an understatement, but it was an experience I am deeply grateful for. Over the past year, I've had the opportunity to meet so many residents and to hear firsthand the passion people have for this community. I've also gained a deeper appreciation of what
makes Morris Plains such a special place beyond its residents. For example, our Department of Public Works, fire department, and police department are truly outstanding. The leadership and members alike all take great pride in serving our bureau. The same commitment is reflected in our volunteer boards from our recreation department that
stays busy year round planning events that bring our community together to our board of health where we are fortunate to have volunteers who are constant health care professionals serving our community. As I begin this term, I commit to continuing to listen to residents concerns and ideas,
promoting transparency and accessibility in our government and to foster fiscal responsib responsibility as we navigate rising costs and future challenges. I would like to thank my fellow council members for bringing such a pleasure to work with and our burough employees for guidance, patience, and willingness to
help me learn the ropes. I'm also deeply thankful to my family for their support, especially my children, for understanding why have they occasionally duck out of bedtime a little early to attend meetings for town. Finally, thank you to the residents who placed their trust in me in this election. And to
those who didn't vote for me, please know that I work just as hard to represent you. It's a true honor to sit on on this day as representing this wonderful burrow as we enter our second centennial. I promise to do my very best on every day on behalf of everyone in the community of care. Thank you.
Now, my honor to speak to you today about another dedicated public servant, Councilwoman woman Nancy Bergen on this side. Nancy has been a proud resident of Mars plans for over 27 years, raising her family. Nancy was first elected to the
burough council in 2019, becoming one of the first female Democrats to serve on this governing body, a historic milestone for our town. Prior to her service on the council, Nancy was deeply involved in leading efforts with Morris with the Morris Plains Municipal Alliance. During her time on the
council, Nancy has worked tirelessly to modernize and improve how our local government serves residents. She was a founding member of our burough website committee, leading to the redesign of our municipal website and expanding online services, making it easier for residents to access information and
conduct business with the burrow. She also helped establish the Burough's business development committee, the first of its kind in Mars Plains aimed at supporting local business and attracting new ones to our downtown. In 2024, Nancy was appointed by her council colleagues to serve as council
president, a testament to the respect and confidence she has earned on the governing body. Today, she chairs the finance committee, guiding essential services, including library, tax administration, elections, and communications. NY's leadership brings more residents voices into local
planning and decision making. And if you're ready, come on up. If you want to Left on the Bible, >> right hand. >> You ready? >> Repeat after me. I, Nancy Berga,
>> I, Nancy Berg, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith and
allegiance >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the government established >> and to the government established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority the people >> under the authority of the people
>> and that I will faithfully >> and that I will faithfully >> and partially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of councilman >> of council >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability >> so help me God >> so help me
>> congratulations I'm truly honored to be here with members of my family. My father Frank Gilbert, my husband, John, and two of my children, Ren and Natalie. I spent some time this week thinking about how is it that I'm standing up here today in front of you. Um, growing
up, I didn't know anybody who was involved in local government or government at all. Um, except an uncle who was a police officer. Um, politics was not a big topic of conversation at our dinner table, which we had required family dinners every night. Um, and I'm
really not comfortable talking in front of people. I'd rather listen. That's just that's my mo. But what I learned at family dinners was how to discuss topics of the day. Um, we learned how to listen to others opinions, how to evaluate
facts, and how to ask good questions. And we were taught never to complain unless we were going to propose a solution. So my dad who's here encouraged me to ask good questions and also he taught me that when something needs fixing or when someone needs help
to step forward and get involved. And I'm proud to say that at 87 years old, he is still doing so, setting an example for um his children and his grandchildren, serving on at least three boards in the community where he lives, including a welcoming committee for new residents. So, back to how I got here.
So, about 10 years ago, I walked into this chamber to ask some questions and share some ideas. And I quickly realized that in order to really be heard, I needed to have a seat at the table. So I I said to myself, if elected, I am
going to make sure that residents we serve are treated with respect and the kindness they deserve. But while I thought I came here to give back, what I found, what I learned was that I received so much more than I could ever give. And and that's because of all the
people that are in this room that set such a great example of their commitment and devotion and dedication and self-sacrifice to this burrow. and that includes the professionals who are here with us and also the volunteers on all of our boards and committees on our sports teams and everything else that
you do here. I also want to thank the residents for holding us accountable to you. I've learned so much about sewer pumps and trash collection and road paving and emergency plans and construction fees that I never thought I
would need to know and then I frankly took for granted. But really more it was what I learned from these people about their commitment and working together toward a common goal. So aside from raising my children, serving the residents of their hometown has been the greatest honor of my life. Morris Plains
is the best place to raise a family. Like many of you, we have great memories of, you know, summer camp and theater and all the fireworks and um the great traditions and the places where we've made memories. And really what all of
those things did was they made us more than a community. They made us a family. And I think what feels what means the most to me to be serving in this moment um in our nation's history is that we have a unique opportunity.
Most people will tell you right now that government at all levels is broken and that and I think that's because there are people who are willing to put their own interests or even the destruction of perceived political opponents before the best interests of the people that they
are were elected to serve. I ran for office three times and I asked for your votes because I believe Morris claims can be different. I believe in I still believe in government. by the people and for the people and other people. This is also a
moment in time when cruelty toward others seems to be accepted and applauded by many people. Here in Mars Plains, we have a different reality. We see each other as neighbors, friends, teachers, classmates. The challenge we face as a nation are
still here, but we have an opportunity to tackle them together and to set aside our differences and see that and agree and act that all people deserve equal and humane treatment and opportunity under the law. We are the community of caring after all and that means we see
each other as part of the solution and not part of the problem. I'm proud of the accomplishments that we made together during my first six years on the council and the trusting relationships we built the council and and and um with the community. Um but
the work I started is not complete. There's more work to do and there's better ways we can serve and the challenges and the pressures faced by small towns in New Jersey are real. I am not an optimist. An optimist is someone who believes that everything's going to
turn out magically okay. I'm a hopeful realist and that means I believe that we can act to face the challenges and make things better in some way. And especially if we learn to put our political differences aside and get to work with the burough's 100th birthday
this year. What better time for this community to start talking about what we want to be for the next 100 years? My friends, thank you for putting your trust in me so I can continue to serve and to lead with hope. I do not take this responsibility lightly and I thank
my colleagues here on the council for for all of their support and mayor as well. Um I look forward to working with all of you to meet this moment. Roll call, please. >> Mayor, >> present. >> Mr. President >> Mr. Cortez
>> present >> Mr. Ivy >> present >> Mr. Houston >> present >> Mr. Pontier >> pres. >> Good evening, residents, council members, burl employees, honored guests, and happy birthday, Mars Plains. As
2026, we celebrate our centennial. As we end 2025, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made together as a community and to expand my or express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to another successful
year in the burrow of Morris Plains. Public safety remains one of our highest priorities this year. The Morris Plains Police Department welcomed three new officers. Patrol officer Amelio Ericson, patrol officer Jake Zelenich, patrol
officer Noah Rodding. strengthen our ability to serve and protect our residents. In addition, the department introduced a new motorcycle unit, enhancing traffic enforcement, community engagement, and the department's overall operational flexibility. As most are
aware, upgrades involving a new police facility was denied by voters. However, a smaller version in the current municipal building with the police department needs incl will be uh to be included will be worked on moving forward in 2026.
A new architect was approved by the council last month and we will hear about it in the future as the progress evolves. Our fire department also saw significant improvements such as apartment inspections that were implemented for further fire protection along with our homes, businesses, and
public spaces. We thank our 100% volunteer firefighters for their continued commitment to the burrow and burrow events throughout the year. Round of applause for them. In 2025, the department ordered a new BRAT mini pumper as well as a Pierce
Enforcer pumper providing enhanced capabilities to respond to emergencies. I also want to thank the chief for all who worked on replacing the fire whistle on town hall after it was damaged during a storm. I was proud to hear it sound for the first time again at our 911
ceremony. Thank you, Chief. This year brought meaningful upgrades to our infrastructure. Our walking pass along Route 53 near Foxwood were completed this year with a grant initially from Congresswoman Cheryl's office and then from the New Jersey DOT.
Additionally, in 2026, we'll be working on walking trails within Community Park. From the American development on American Road to the train station, the path in between will be receiving new lighting shortly as the contractor is still waiting on lighting structures. This again improving safety,
connectability, and accessibility for residents of all ages. Several playgrounds such as Watnong Park, Community Park, and Simon's Park received upgrades, ensuring safe and modern recreational spaces and equipment for our children's and families, fun and
memories. The council will have to look into new turf for the field in Simon's Park in 2026. The community pool also was also updated in 25 and again in 2026, we hope to continue updating the pool. The burl is going to be applying for grants from
Green Acres for some of these upcoming upgrades. The Green Acres application for pool improvements will be open for public input and discussion at the upcoming recreation meeting at Burrow Hall on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. We plan to locate and repair
leaks in the pool, replace the SL replace the slide, and replace all lifeguard shares, allowing residents and employees to enjoy improved facilities during the summer months. With more updates on the way, we are excited also to work with John Ryan architects on ideas for space previously occupied by
the Silven Pool. The architect plans to meet with residents and burough officials to come up with various concepts that will benefit every resident of the burough to enjoy. Our Southeast Morris water utility completed key system upgrades to our water system to achieve sustainability
and reliability reliability along and including Styles Avenue. The roads affected by this project will paved in the spring and summer months of 2026, as well as further road infrastructure that will be named later and completed by the fall. Road improvements were another
major focus in 2025 with multiple roads paved and repaired, enhancing both safety and quality of life throughout the burrow. Our business development committee took on the responsibility of installing tree lights along part of our business district on Speedell Avenue. The outcome turned out beautiful. The
lights bring a warm inviting glow that enhance surroundings and create a more pleasant and festive atmosphere for everyone. The finished display looks wonderful and the efforts behind is generally appreciated by all who see and enjoy it and we hope to continue this project next year. Business development committee is also working on a business
networking event on March 10th to bring our businesses and business owners together for a funing of local networking. We will also be working with downtown Morris Planes to bolster their agenda for 2026 and further into the future with more details to come moving forward. In 2025, a long wish of Chief
Kraski in mind was the development of the Morris Plains Community Emergency Response Team also known as C. This program is a volunteer organization and current and with currently 15 active members dedicated to helping the community prepare for and respond to
emergencies. Made up of trained residents, the program focuses on uh disaster preparedness, basic disaster response skills, and community education. We are appreciative of all members and anyone of any age can join. If interested, please contact Lieutenant
Gil. I encourage everyone to sign up for the Morris Plains email alert and smart 911 and those links can be found on the burrow's website. This enables you to keep up with what's happening in Morris Planes and assist first responders in the event of an emergency.
Radables have appreciated by 2 and 3/4% over 2024. We have seen steady increase since 2015 with a notable rise over the last three years. This increase highlights changing market conditions and implications for
budgeting and planning moving forward. While the adjustment is relatively moderate, it is still important to acknowledge its impact and factor into all the financial forecasts and operational decisions. Staying aware of these changes allows the bureau to plan responsibly and respond proactively to
ongoing cost pressures. We are also proud to welcome new businesses that opened in Morris Plains in 2025, including the Messy Smok located on Speedwell Avenue. Sammy's Barber Shop again on Speedwell Avenue along with Chocolatine, Fashion Nails
out in Nicole's Plaza along with Pope One on route 10. These businesses bring vitality, jobs, economic and economic growth to our burrow, and we thank them for investing in our community and we wish them the best of luck here. Our burough's success would not be possible
without the dedication of our employees. The DPW has been working tirelessly. They work day and night maintaining the grass, removing snow, and setting up Christmas decorations. We thank them and appreciate all they do. In 2025, we
welcomed and appointed a new burough clerk, Rosemary Leahan, a new assistant superintendent of the DPW, Kevin Rondo, and new recreation events coordinator, Michelle Diamond, and added a deputy clerk, Christian. >> Kazich, how was that? Pretty good,
right? >> Clerk typist, Brianna Mueller or Brienne Mueller. Assistant Task Collector Francesca Vichy, Municipal Court Administrator Melissa Ponte, and DPW employer Wyatt Dunn, and Recreation Director Jamie
Cooper to our municipal departments. At the same time, we extend our deepest thanks to Roseanne Deon and Carlen Lady, both who both retired, recognizing their years of service and wishing them well in their next chapter. We also pause to remember and honor those members of our
community who passed away this year. Notably, Carol Hal, Leo Nichols, Moren Sullivan, Sydney Leech, and Marty Riley. Their contributions, kindness, and presence will not be forgotten, and we extend our sincere condolences to their families and loved ones. Morris Plains
remains committed to responsible planning while carefully considering the needs and concerns of residents and maintaining the character of our community. Over the past year, the bureau has continued to address our unfunded state mandate affordable housing obligations in a thoughtful and balanced manner. We have come to a
resolve with the state of New Jersey and fair share housing center right on time after long hours of strategy and planning. The burough has settled on 20 20 affordable units which will equate to the possibility of 100 total in which 80 would be market rate. This number is
down from the original 137 unit obligation that we were assigned in early 2025. This would have equated to roughly 685 total units. Again, I want to stress the council and myself are not against affordable housing. It's the high
density of housing that we would have been faced with. In my opinion, this is this is an absolute win for the burough and I will and it will be in place for the next 10 years. I would like to thank the committee and our professionals for their undivided attention, time, and
attendance throughout this process. I couldn't be more impressed by the people I appointed to this committee. A sincere thank you to all involved. The council will be acting in early 26, 2026 on the resoning with overlays on certain pieces
of property with the within the OB and C1 zones. These efforts reflect an approach that prioritizes long-term stability and thoughtful growth for Mars planes. We also worked closely with regional partners to improve transportation infrastructure. New
Jersey Transit completed new pump installations and electrical upgrades which doubled its capacity, strengthening service reliability and supporting the daily commutes of our residents. Let's keep our fingers crossed this works this time.
As we look towards the future, invite the all residents to join up for to join us for a very special occasion. As I previously mentioned, 2026 is not only our nation's 250th birthday, but Morris Plain's 100th birthday. Our centennial committee has planned several events for
2026, which will be fun for all residents of all ages throughout the year. The first event is January 15th at 7 p.m. at the Burough School Auditorium in which there will be a reenactment with students from the Burough School when Morris plans separated from Handover Township. You will hear more
about the Centennial Committee and events later on tonight from the chairman of the committee, Jim Meyers. This committee will this meeting will mark the beginning of the preparations for celebrating 100 years of Morris Plains history, pride, and community spirit. In closing, I want to thank our
residents, volunteers, burrow staff, and council members for their continued support and partnership. Together, we have made 25 2025 a year of growth, improvement, and progress. In 2026, I see nothing but the same. More improvements, more progress, and a
bright future for all of us here in the community of caring. The burough's year ahead looks promising and these accomp accomplish accomplishments are a direct result of the dedicated individuals and knowledgeable planning for both short and long term. Let's persist in our
progress and keep moving forward. The council and I will continue to work hard this year and for years to come. I'd like to leave you with a quote from Abraham Lincoln. The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time. I wish you and your families a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year.
and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in 2026. God bless you, Morris Plains, and God bless America. >> We have nominations for a council president. >> Thank you, mayor. Nice speech. Hello,
everybody. I'd like to nominate council member Art Broom, the council president for the year of 2026. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Second by Nancy. Roll call, please. >> Mr. Broom, >> upstairs,
>> Mr. Cortez. >> Yes. >> Mr. Ivy, >> yes. >> Mr. Houston, >> yes. >> Mr. Pontier, >> yes. >> Miss VGA, >> yes. >> Congratulations. Now I have the appointments. The planning board class 4 member four
years. John Bezel. Bart Sianiata class 4 years to fill the unexpired term of I'm sorry fill the unexpired term of Ron Kelly. Ross Malpure class 4 to fill the unexpired term of Steve Augen. Maryannne
Stecker class two one year. Bill Houston class three one year. Order of adjusting Sajj Een four years. Bobby Webster four years. Barta alternate two years. Recreation Commission Michael Breerlin five years.
Shade tree Maryanne Steer five years. Board of Health Mary best three years. Pam Nelson three years. Kelly Burrows alternate two years. Humane Law Enforcement Officers, Sergeant Jeff Hawkman, one year. Sergeant Michael
Kelly, one year. Community Development, Robert Martin, Representative, one year. Michael Bos, alternate, one year. Next, we have adoption of resolutions. I move that resolutions 2026-1 through 2026-28
be adopted. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Second by timer. Roll call, please. >> Mr. Grim, >> yes. >> Mr. Cortez, >> yes. >> Mr. Ivy, >> yes. >> Mr. Houston, >> yes. >> Mr. Pontier, >> yes. >> Miss Berg,
>> yes. >> Like the white fire department and and Tyler up for the uh badges. >> So, I'd like to uh first Start off with our fire prevention official, Chris Shay. This will be Chris Sha's 11th term in
this position. Congratulations, Chris. Thank you. Just slide the pin through. >> Just make it work. >> Sorry. >> Following right behind him, uh, his Chris's son
as assistant engineer, Harry Shay. Also, their father and grandfather is in the audience with us here today and also a member of the fire department. Next, we have the engineer, Mr. David Kitel. Next we have Chief Three Mark Bellis.
Next we have Chief 2 Bobby Webster who cannot be with us tonight but he certainly deserves a round of applause. This time I'd like to call up uh the chief's wife Amy. I don't know why it's not a pin, it's a
sword on the back. >> Next, we have our chief Kevin Rango and this will be his 12th term. >> Camera wants camera. Sorry. Watch the blood. >> All right. Thank you. >> The floor is yours.
>> 12 years. 12 years. The whole time. Uh, it's gone by like it was yesterday. Uh, I have to thank my wife. Thank you for being by my side and allowing me to do this. I have to thank my guys. Were for them, I wouldn't be here. So, wouldn't
need me. So, and like mayor said, Bobby, unfortunately, he couldn't make it. He's had to go to work. But, um, these guys outstanding last year. Uh, 469 calls last year. Uh,
that's blows my mind because when I started 30 something years ago, we were lucky to get 100 calls. So, and times are changing and uh with development and uh surrounding towns, more mutual aid like we're in bedrock.
There's nothing burns in bedrock like that. >> But yeah, >> mayor council forward to another year working with you and uh hope the new apparatus will come in and be all good. >> So, is there an update on the new
apparat >> one piece was three years out? One piece will be here in April and that'll be the mini bumper and the other piece is three years unfortunately. Also want to thank Mike Shay and John
under 50 years of service last year to the department. Thank you all. Be safe and don't hesitate to call if you need help. We're here >> 24/7 365. >> I also do want to mention the fire
association officers from 2026. It's Michael Giri is the president, Gary Kaiser is the vice president, John DS is the secret secretary, and Tom Ruon is the treasurer. Uh at this time we uh I'd just like to
give out a couple of awards. Um and this is goes with the Morris Plains Community Service Award. Just say tell you what it is for. It's presented to an individual, individuals or group who have made a notable contribution
over a substantial period of time for the betterment of the community of caring. Morris Plains Service Award presented in appreciation to two people this year. One is John Budro
has been a member of the Morris Plains Volunteer Fire Department since July 24, 1975. John has been an integral part of the department for 50 years, five of which he was chief. John received the 200 Club Valor Award in 1992 for helping to
rescue a woman in a houseire. John has become an exempt member. John became an exempt member in 1984 and achieved lifetime membership in 2000. He continues to volunteer his time and make Morris Plains Volunteer Fire Department the best in Morris County.
The second one, Michael Sheay, has been a member of the Morris Plains Volunteer Fire Department since January 16th, 1975. Michael was a police officer in the burough for 25 years after he retiring after after retiring from the United
States United States Air Force. Michael truly is an outstanding volunteer who has a love of helping others as you can see from his previous endeavors. Michael became an exempt member in 1983 as a continued and has continued his service to the department by attending many
community events, fundraisers, and calls. Both John and Michael Sheay will be our grand marshals at the upcoming 40th anniversary. If I can have John and Michael up here,
present them with just a little momentto of being 50 years in the Morris Plains volunteer. your fire department. And as you can see, sons and grandsons are continuing the uh the tradition. So, Michael, this is for you.
>> Thank you, >> John. This is for you. Thank you very much. And we hope to see you in the carriage in in the summer. So, they they did receive keys at the uh the dinner recognizing them for their 50 years of service that the fire department put on earlier this year. So,
again, a momentto. Thank you very much you both for your service and your time to the burrow and your dedication. It really shows and well deserve to be the grand mar. Is there anybody here that was has been appointed to a board previously? You
just stand up and we'll do an oath for office for anybody. >> That's it. >> Okay. Well, this is simple then. >> That's it. I >> I, Marian Stecker, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution
>> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> in the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the State of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments
>> and to the governments >> established in the United States >> established in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully >> and that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly
>> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of office of shade tree and planning board >> of office of shade tree and planning board >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability >> so help me God >> so help me God >> congratulations
>> at this time I'd like to open up the for any remarks from citizens besides Penny Jones. Jim Myers, you get >> Penny, I'll make it quick. >> I did ring the bell, Penny. >> Okay. >> Okay.
>> Time's up. This is Jim Myers, chairman of the Jim Myers. Um uh we have been working over the past uh year and a half to plan for this year's centennial uh celebration. uh with the 250th of the
nation and the hundth of our town, it's a great year to uh to celebrate. Uh next week on the 15th, so next Thursday is the actual date of uh our separation, the vote of separation from Hannibra Township. And so uh just like as it came
with the uh with our nation, we had the fourth of July when they uh when they uh expressed their interest to separate long war then uh uh went after and we finally um gained our independence with
Mars. Plus was a little quicker. We said we said in on January 15th that we wanted to separate. We made the vote in April and we separated. So, our official uh date, our Fourth of July is next week
and April will be our official uh separation of the of the 100th year. So, we're starting off next year, as Jason was saying, we're starting off uh with a council meeting next Thursday night held at Burough School Auditorium. Uh we're
holding it there. We're hoping to have great turnout. We're actually going to have the students of uh Burough School do a uh commemoration and a um uh a replication of the of the first meeting
and the separation back in 1926. Uh another one of our other uh things that call note to is our first council at the time in 1926 which was very um unique for its day. We had a the
first one of the first female council people in the state served on Mar in Mars Plains on that first on that first board that we created. Then uh we are going to have the celebration next week uh 7:00 school auditorium. Then
following Saturday led by the recreation department, we're going to be having a birthday party at the community center. And that's going to be at 11 o'clock at the community center. All are welcome. uh cake, ice cream, great for the kids. We'll have a a magician show. We'll have
some balloons, face painting, real a real birthday party for the town. Then fast forward for uh to the next month on um February uh 21st, we are going to be at 6:00 at the BFW. We're going to be
having adult birthday party. So, we can have a few adult beverages and that's going to be uh held at the um at the BFW. We're going to have a band. We're going to have food. We're going to have beer, not uh beer and wine. We're going to have representation from a couple of
our communities um uh micro breweries. We're going to be there as well. So, we'll have some great participation. We would love everyone to to come and join us. is uh $50 $50 ahead, but that is for uh once again food, beer, wine, and uh
entertainment. There is on the table outside and also on the town website multiple Facebook uh pages as well. There's a QR code if you'd like to just uh go on and scan, you can um buy your tickets right online. Um then we are
also uh launching next week. We're going to have a number of uh merchandise and centennial swag that we're be uh selling for the town. Starting off and if anyone would like to have I'll be here uh later on. We're going to start off with car magnets and
uh pins commemorating the uh commemory of the 100th year. And next week we're going to have a number of other items that are going to be launched at the uh uh at the meeting. Uh some great events moving forward. We are planning a beautiful uh mural on
the uh underpass uh as you're coming into town. So, it'll be a nice addition to uh to driving into Mars Plains. And then we we've also commemorated the park on Court Avenue as Centennial Park. We uh we've been very fortunate the Mars
Planes Museum has purchased a uh a wonderful time capsule that they are going to be working with museum in conjunction with the school as well to build that uh build that time capsule and when we do officially uh dedicate
the park, we're going to be laying the time capsule later on this year. Uh outside of that, there are a number of other uh uh community events that will be coming up that we'll be announcing throughout the year. >> Great. Okay. Thank you, Jim. Thanks for
the update and thank you. >> Okay, Penny, I guess it's your turn. >> Thank you, Mayor. >> You're welcome. And it's good to be here with the mayor and the council members, the firefighters, the police chief, and everybody else
who's here. And are you from the from what newspaper are you? >> The news. >> Are you S? >> Yes. >> You know, we have a new we have a newspaper that uh you can subscribe to. You can get it online. You can get the paper version. I prefer the paper version. And everybody here should be
subscribing to the paper that covers this municipality. Am I correct? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> And then recycling it. You have to recycle it. >> All right. Now, um
>> I have to have at least four. >> Got three and a half. >> Okay. Okay. Um the first I have two sections to my comments and the first of them is primarily directed at um our mayor.
Um and I'm going to give him something. But I have something for everybody else here too. And um this is the deal. Now you take this with five pounds of salt. You
understand what I'm saying? >> Because I'm gonna tell quite a few lies. The other day I was in Trenton and um you know, I was just walking around in this state house and I figured I'd try to get the latest scoop on whatever was
going on. And I heard a rumor from a journalist there who swore me to secrecy. But I've never been really good at keeping secrets. Notice I'm winking. But the but the secret is that as soon
as Mikey Cheryl is sworn in as governor of the state, her first executive order is going to be that any municipality that would like to receive state aid
in the office of the mayor of that municipality. There must be some gold so that you know we can keep up with Washington DC
>> I have for our mayor because we do we do receive some state aid >> oh yes >> I have >> not much anymore Penny so I don't know if this is going to be worth it or not >> I have a gift for the mayor and I would like him to take it out of this bag and show it to you then there will be a
little more explanation Now again, notice I'm winking shaking. >> But I did not give you the whole picture. >> Got to get a bigger frame. I think >> the governor also, I believe, is going
to require that there must be either a work of art or a photograph of a beautiful woman inside that frame. Is she there? >> You have to
you have to put it on. >> Oh, no. I feel terrible. Last year, I had what I thought was a uh a toothpaste tube with the toothpaste inside the box. I mean, a toothpaste box with the tube
inside it. When I presented it to our wonderful mayor, there was no tube of toothpaste in the box as I'm presenting a frame with no picture. You will shortly have a picture. It's actually a
drawing of my good friend Gloria Garbage. >> Oh, >> she's a good friend of mine. She lives in North and so soon this will be returned to you. >> Thanks. >> All right, that's part one. >> I do appreciate that because this really is a step up from the toothpaste to
black. However, I would like to compliment our mayor because in his office on his one of his bookshelves, he has amongst a whole host of tachkas
the new gift which is the box with the toothpaste in it. >> Still there. >> Very good. All right. >> Thank you. >> Now, on a serious note, I made all that up, by the way. Wasn't really a trend, but I thought it was a decent story. Um,
some of you are probably familiar with the poem that starts out, when I am an old lady, I will wear purple and a red hat. Have some of you heard that poem? Okay. So, I
have reached the status of being an old lady. I'm wearing the purple. I do not have a red hat. But on a very serious note, since Tom and I will probably be moving within the next year and a half or so to another pasture and we won't be in the lovely
community of caring, I want to say thank you to the people of Morris Plains because we've been here for over 50 years. We love we love the world of Morris Plains. And I have a special thanks this evening to one of our police officers whose
first name is is it Nyquin? >> Nikon. Naan Nyquin spent four hours with me summer before last when it was about 95 degrees outside in our garage.
Now you ask what were you and Nikon doing in the garage. Well, he was trying to get me into our house which was locked. All the windows were closed and locked. Tom was out of town. Our neighbors who have key to the house were
out of town. We couldn't a locksmith. It took 4 hours to find a locksmith who came from somewhere in the eastern part of this county. And he walked in and he went, he had some kind of tool. He just went boop bang bang and the door was
open. But that poor police officer had to stay for four hours with his body camera on. And it was really it was kind of fun because, you know, we told all kinds of stories to each other. And I found out that he lives in Oakland, New Jersey where our younger daughter lives.
But thank you to uh you and to night one for taking such good care of us. Now on a really serious note, um you may know Okay, this is really fast. >> I want each of you to go home with this
document. It's from my former employer. I don't need water. Which my former employer is a Morris County municipal utility authority which collects Oh, thank you. which collects our recyclables every week. You're a lifesaver.
>> You baptized me. >> That's okay. That's okay. Um anyway, the Morris County MUA picks up our recyclables. And what the Morris County MUA wants is dry, clean recyclables. But the Morris
County MUA also wants us to reuse things before we toss them out and to be active in taking good care of our environment no matter what. So, I would like this is dated 2024. I realize it's a little bit
old and it may need some updating, but the Morris County MUA said, "Will you please distribute these to everybody you run into?" So whether you live in Morris Plains or you live elsewhere, I want everybody to take one of these home and
check them out. And then if you have any little tiny bit of evangelism in your system and you know of people in Morris Plains or wherever you live who aren't recycling properly, please talk nicely and kindly to them.
Also, if you notice that there are businesses who are not recycling properly, and I guarantee you there are because I took some pictures just this last week in Morris, Plains where the corugated cardboard and the garbage was all mixed together. That's
against the law. There is a number on here for the Morris County Municipal Utility Story. They also have there's an even well there's a website and so contact them because they are working with the Morris County Department of
Health. And the Morris County Department of Health has people who can go out and inspect uh garbage containers, recycling containers, businesses to give them assistance if they are not recycling
properly. So I hope that we all here in our 101st year will take care of the environment that we have here. Is that is that okay with fair all you council members up there? >> Fair enough.
>> Okay, I'm gonna put some of these outside, but also I'll still be in here. Please take one home. It has all kinds of good information that can be very helpful. And I probably won't even be here at the meeting next year, so you won't have to bring that that time.
>> That time is going to stay there just in memory of you. >> If anybody gets out of line, we'll be doing Okay. Okay, nobody else. We're going to move on to the benediction. Deacon Muro from St. Michael's Church
and Morris View. >> I'll be shorter than Penny. >> Everybody's shorter than Penny Mor. >> I will say this. I've been in Mars Plains a while. I have my original
library card. It's number 41. Heavenly Father, we ask you to bless these good public servants, all of the people who serve Mars Plains, all of the people who live in Mars Plains. May they
be fine examples of our nation, of our community, and may they have always the blessing and the wisdom that you will give to them. May they always be kind and loving and caring for each
other. And may we truly be a community of caring. And we ask this, we ask all things through our Lord and Savior. Amen. >> Amen. Thank you, sir. Um, before we do adjourn, I really I'd like to invite everybody down the hall.
There's plenty of food down there and drinks and whatnot and uh to have a good time with everybody down there. Also, I really want to uh and I don't normally do this, but I really want to thank the clerk's office uh for their hard work. This is their first uh reorganization
meeting. Um, Rosemary just started in that position in in October. Um, and Christian, sorry, Christian uh was just deputized as the deputy clerk a month or
two ago now. So, putting all this together for the very first time. No mistakes, I don't think. I think it was done very well, but really congratul congratulations and thank you to you guys. You pulled it all together and I don't normally do that. DO I HAVE A MOTION TO ADJURNN?
>> Is there a second? >> Second by S. >> All in favor? >> Opposed? The eyes have it. Happy new year everybody. Thank you very much for coming out. Gota have a sick myself. Basically, you know what I'm saying?