Okay. Call the meeting to order. Roll call, please. >> Mr. Learner, >> here. >> Miss Dolan >> here. >> Mrs. Jeffoffrey >> here. >> Mayor Morgan >> here. >> Mrs. Mcnite >> here. Mr. Gardner >> here. >> I aliance to the flag of the United
States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. This is a public meeting. Burough Council Burn Province County Union, State of New Jersey. Adequate notice has
been given in accordance with PL 1975, chapter 231. Then an annual notice of revision was made in compliance of section 13 of the act. I need a motion for appointment of Rupale for board of
education leaison to the municipal alliance. >> So moved. >> Second. Second. All >> in favor? >> No. So be >> uh approval of minutes of January 27th. >> Motion, please.
>> So moved. >> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Yes. >> No. So be it. Okay. Correspondence. New Jersey American Water uh purchase water and wastewater adjustment clause. Uh the
hearings on February 12th. Uh, Township of Berkeley Heights Planning Board adoption of housing element and fair share plan. Township of Berkeley Heights Ordinance 01 introducing the municipal land use
procedures. Any comments? >> No. >> Okay, let's go to council business administration and deed. >> Thank you, mayor. Um, basically these two items are authorizations to solicit
proposals. So, the first one is an authorization to solicit proposals for fireworks. Um, so our fireworks last year were around 16,000ish. We're not sure if it how much the price is going to go up this year, but our threshold for needing to go out to bid is 175. Uh,
so we're airing on the side of caution and we're putting it out for bid. We'll see what comes back. And the second is an authorization to solicit RFQS for planning services. Um so back at our reorg meeting um we appointed our
existing planner um higher grl for one quarter of 2026. So this is an authorization to go out for bids for other planners. >> Okay. Engineering Kathleen. >> Oh thank you mayor. Uh resolution
2025-075 is a resolution approving partial payment number two to current elevator technology incorporated in the amount of 65,000 for the project commonly known as Elizabeth Barabash Manor elevator
replacement. Uh the elevator is being replaced at Barabash Manor and the funds for this project come from a CDBG grant and the affordable housing trust fund. >> Out time. >> Okay. Finance Lisa. >> Thank you, mayor. We have resolution
2026-76. This is appropriation reserves transfer resolution. Uh we are transferring money from the 2025 budget to reserve accounts for insurance liability, road repairs
and maintenance and snow removal. Um as you know the you know the beginning of the year we see a lot of these transfers while we are getting our budget uh buttoned down. So these are permitted during the first three months of the succeeding fiscal year. Uh again we have
resolution 202677. This is a resolution authorizing emergency temporary appropriations. So, this is amending the 2026 municipal temporary budget to add dollars for the
PFRS retirement system, utilities, and uh the PERS retirement system. We have resolution 2026-78. It's a resolution authorizing the payment of attached bills payable list.
the total amount of 9,922,636.86. Uh some of the larger items include our February tax levy for the new Providence Board of Ed that was 9,354,000. We have our February appropriation for the library, 1119,
967. Um, we have the elevator that we just talked about for Barabash, 65,000. Um, pro professional property appraisers. This is a progress payment for the reval 52,221.
We have Rock Salt for 51,332. Woodland Builders who uh helped did snow removal for us 35,963. youth basketball program with Blaze Basketball for 35,136.
Our January recycling was 34,420. Our December electric bill was 29,796 and Whitmir public safety for turnout gear which is 29,456 it
>> okay municipal alliance Kathleen. >> Thank you mayor. So this is an author another authorization to solicit proposals for the clothing donation bin um bin collection services. So there is a donation clothing bin over in the EMS
parking lot um that is uh supports the municipal alliance funding and uh this is just going out for um a renewal bid to ex extend the contract. Okay. Resolution 079 is a author
authorizing to apply for the New Jersey uh law and public safety grant for law enforcement well wellness and resiliency grant. And as many of you know, we have
a workout room here at the uh at the municipal center for the police department. that uh the equipment's getting old and we're going for a grant to get new equipment. So, it'll be a good addition to the new police
department coming. So, okay, we have a limousine application from Shahed Aram Summit Express. The application has been properly prepared and reviewed. So, we'll go to public works and Allan.
>> Thank you, mayor. Uh resolution 080. It's a resolution approving requisition R2600315 for Pierce Eagle Equipment and Company in the amount not to exceed $3,44345. This is for a sewer jet repair in the
wastewater treatment plant. And this is just approving the uh the purchase of a water pump and various valve replacements. >> Okay. Go to discussion items. Um,
if anybody's uh looked at social media, they they see what's uh what's going on over there over on 6:30 Central. Uh there is a lot of misinformation. So, we put out this statement and I'd
like to read it tonight. The Bureau issues this statement to address inquiries regarding alleged environmental conditions at the properties located at 630 Central Avenue and a planned demolition of the existing
structure. Based on a review of records maintained by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the burrow, there is no documented evidence of soil contamination, groundwater
contamination, or vapor intrusion associated with the 630 Central Avenue property. The property is not listed in the New Jersey DP environmental databases and
there is no currently uh no classification exemption area designated for this location. A groundwater contamination plume has been ident identified in a separate
unrelated industrial property in the vicinity north of Central Avenue. That site is subject to ongoing remediation according to the New Jersey D technical staff. Available data indicate that the
contamination from that state is not migrating towards 630 Central Avenue property. No data has been identified demonstrating past or present impacts on 630 Central Avenue property.
The CA is an institutional control that the DP applies within an area where groundwater contaminant concentrations exceed the applicable groundwater uh quality standards identifying the
known extent of groundwater impacts at specific depth and location. The CEA referenced in recent communications applies to a bedrock aquifer associated
with another site that does not constitute evidence of contamination at 6:30 Central Avenue property. The bureau and the NJ have no legal authority to
require environmental sampling, investigation, or remediation at the property in the absence of documented contamination or regulatory triggers. At this time,
no such basis exists for the 630 Central Avenue property. NJDE does not issue, regulate or impose conditions on demolition permits. Demolition permits is administered
locally and there is no regulatory requirement to to condition a demolition permit on environmental sampling or where no contamination has been identified. The existing structure does
not contain a basement and demolition activities will not involve subsurface excavation beyond the removal of surface materials. Nearby properties including child care
and educational facilities have been completely uh required environmental sampling within the past year and receive results indicating no detective impacts. These findings further support
the conclusion that no offsite impacts have been identified in this area. Assertions regarding cancer incidents or alleged cancer clusters are under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey
Department of Health and require comprehensive epideurological ep >> epidemiological >> that too. No findings or determinations have been issued by the Department of Health
linking 6:30 Central Avenue property to adverse health income outcomes. The bureau has received all the information presented to date and has not been provided without establishing a regulatory or legal basis for further
action. The bureau will continue to cooperate with the New Jersey DP and the Department of Health should credible, verifiable information be submitted in the future. So, at this time, if anybody has any
questions about this statement, please raise your hand, get their name and address. >> Yeah, Phil. >> Yes, S. Uh I'm not I wasn't here at the initial presentation, but was that the uh the whole site the letter?
>> You have to give your name and address. >> No, I will. I will. >> Good evening. My name is Phil Dempsey. I've been a New Providence resident for over 40 years and are familiar with the town for 60 plus years. Um,
I'm not sure what was initially the first part of the presentation, but my property existed within the map that was shown that was been I guess controversial now. uh we received a certified letter of uh explaining that
we've so been identified um and that obviously I was concerned as to what the status it was. So I inquired of the state at that time
and um because obviously my property value would be directly affected because I was served and um therefore there's an official record that exists with with the property, my property.
Uh that's on 40 Hawthorne over by Robert School. uh probably uh uh at least a third of a mile away from the direct site uh where the uh contamination occurred. Uh within that contamination area,
there's been several spills over the years um that had to be addressed. I know the I wasn't here at the time when the greenhouse issues were all issue uh or existed, but I understand there was one for that. Then over by the firehouse and
the power lines, there was also another uh spill regarding to the garage that once existed there that did uh auto work. There was a uh contamination site there. But the con one here at 6:30 um
uh which was directly affected us by service. They had driven they had wells that were uh throughout the area u test wells to see at the extent of what the contamination was.
It was a um a known cancer-causing uh chemical that was put into the ground and uh it was put into in the ground by a company and I don't have the exact name that had
uh manufactured chips for uh computer chips and it was etchings that went directly into our water table and therefore it spread out through the cont water table being contaminated. Um, I can say from that location all the
way over to myself, which is right near Robert's school, we were we were all cited within contaminated area. Um, the prop the owner of the property has flipped at least a dozen times.
Uh, the more the property has been held by many different corporations and sold off and off and off again. And I'm not sure if all the information has u currently exists as to what the uh
current owners know what the property what happened on that property. Um so I'm I uh I actually had met with Al uh on his Friday's meetings u and thank
you Al. um as a resident, long-term resident, um and hearing all these stories and having going through the concerns, I made I suggested to Al uh or he he made me aware that
the town cannot ask the um or cannot demand access to the property. It's not it's not our property. It's their property. We have no nothing conclusive to go out there and test the uh test the land.
Um and I completely understand that uh the reports that the town has been provided saying well everything currently is um okay. But I think this letter here and this
report that uh this person wrote about um there is no denying that this ex this site did exist that the property owners in the surrounding area had been served and that there is there is a known event
that occurred there and my suggestion uh to Al at that time is because with property flipping not everything follows through all the existing reports. They know it's like prepackaging mortgages that happened in 2008.
Um that the town writes to the current owner through the attorney and um advising them of what the pri what the prior problem was. So that they if there is a problem that
does develop after disturbing the soil again that the current owner had full will have full knowledge prior to any work that he does on that land. This way it should help
relieve some of the pressures as to what individuals in the communities are experiencing that are we going to be experiencing a a cancer cluster or something of that venture. Are we going to uh because all this inorganic
material would come back up through the rock. you know, we all we all know what happens with radon and this would travel the same path as radon up through the grounds and into the homes. Um and um so my suggestion my suggestion to
Al is after discussion is that um the the town attorney writes a letter to the current owner of the property advising that this is this had existed
on the land prior and that um testing um would alleviate a lot of problems within the community. So, I that was >> they did ask me to see if uh we could
ask the owner. >> We did a week or so ago >> and they denied it. They say they're in full compliance, but I'll let you have a copy of this letter because it explains that there was never on that site any
any contamination. But >> well, they were in the contaminated zone. >> Please, >> I'm sorry. >> I'll let you read this. >> It states what it is, but I'll let Mr. Robertson cuz he has been in contact as
well as Mr. Cataro over the last two weeks. >> Okay. Well, yeah, we >> over the last two weeks because I was getting questions this and that. >> I'm not, like I said, I'm not an environmental engineer. Oh, sure.
Neither is anybody here on council. So, you know, I give it to the professionals >> and let them go through it, deal with the proper authorities, >> and Oh, sorry. >> No. And you know,
our we want to protect the community as best we can, >> but we have to go by what the what the state says and the professionals say. So, at this point, I'll I'll let Mr. Robertson go through it because he's
been in in, you know, contact with them for the last two weeks. >> Uh, no. Thank you, uh, Mr. Mayor. Just to, uh, just for clarification, I think, uh, that's what the mayor was just referring to. I think the site that you
mentioned is not 6:30 Central Avenue. It's a different site on the north side of Central Avenue. So, it's a different site that was the source of the contamination that you're referring to. 630 is a site across the street that has never been identified as the source of
any contamination. The issue that was presented before the burrow was the issuance of a demolition permit for property at 6:30 Central Avenue that is not included in any
Database as being contaminated or the source of contamination. And the question then became is there any legal authority uh to withhold approval of a demolition permit? It's not construction of building anything.
It's a demolition permit >> uh based upon on a site that is not the source of or is not listed uh as a regulated site. So that's that was the the limited issue before the burough. Uh the confusion relates to a
classification exception area that's unrelated to that site of unknown origin and there are there is there is a plume but that relates to an underground water groundwater aquifer that I understand is
100 feet below the ground surface. It's not an indication that this site at 6:30 was the source of it or is contaminated in any way. So, so that that's the situation exists. That's what the burrow is dealing with. And the limited issue
that burrow had in front of it was the issuance of a demolition permit. And there's we have been in contact with the D with the board of health. The building construction official has been in touch with the DCA
and there is we have it's been confirmed to the bureau >> that there's no legal authority which would allow the bureau to uh restrict or condition the issuance of the uh demolition permit
without further regulatory traders that don't exist. So that's that's the situation that that exists. Uh, may I? >> Sure. >> Um, when you when a property owner receives notification from the uh because of an environmental hazard, does
that stay attached to the property for if I want to sell my house and I've been served and do I have responsibility or is that is that in there in my property folder >> to end up passing on to the new owner? I I I I
don't want to get involved in a discussion about the legal. >> It's it's just it's just that does it does it does it once you get served is that property attached to it? >> Can I can I say something? Just working in real estate like if you received a notice,
>> you'd have to probably include it in your seller disclosure. Yes. And even if you didn't, the corresponding attorney while doing their due diligence may be able to pull that information anyway. >> Correct. So, >> so now >> m Mr. Dempsey, I just want to jump in and and just clarify that the certified
letter that you received came from 111 Spring Street. Um, it did not come from 6:30. Uh, the >> the 111 Spring Street owners had done due diligence when they were constructing that property. That's
correct. there the the wells that you're talking about um have all been decommissioned because they have found to have done the proper abatement on that property. So that condition no longer exists. >> But if I may, um that Spring Street
property was contained within the same area that I received my certified letter in that the plume does exist. it does exist under the property and that map that was that I've some some map that I saw actually does represent what what I
had received. So they are contained that that was a the the main source of contamination occurred here >> but infected was surrounding. What I can emphatically tell you um because we received word from um 111 Spring Street
yesterday that they are filing with the D that all of those wells have been decommissioned because there is no contamination left on the site. I I'm just going to use my imagination here a little bit is that you have for
years a uh etchings from computer chips that were dropped into the sewer in that received into the water that reached as far as literally Robert's school uh in one direction down to the Pacic River in
the other direction and over toward uh South Street on the other. and uh all the areas there were deemed affected or exposed to it. And therefore when they did decommission that area and they treated it, they had to they had to
basically bring everything in or try to sweep it in and and take it out. The concern, the concern that I think I have and some of my neighbors end up having is that we live in an area that has um um there's a per there's perk issues in
this town and there's uh so when you're blasting you're going to disturb what was once settled or deemed settled. I mean, it's like uh um if at the test sites they seem to be
fine or at that level and I don't know if each well was tested. I I don't have any current updating on it, but it's sort of like sweeping the um sweeping the sweeping your floor. Um I can sweep this air common area here, but I'm not
sweeping underneath the underneath the uh chairs and tables. So, when the blasting occurs, it's going to disturb the other areas. It's going to it's going to shake things up, and I just don't um I uh don't want to be put in a
situation again where my house is contaminated, the propertyy's contaminated. Um um yeah, it did good. I don't even know if this occurred during your administration. Uh I believe it might occurred uh um prior with Tom's or the other administration when this all
started occurring in town. But um uh I would just like to say that I think as a good neighbor policy and reducing cost is that the town which has the files which had received the information that
had prior knowledge of it even though everything currently is okay takes that information and through with the attorney and saying property owner We want to make you aware that this had existed on your property, whether it
came in your discovery, your due diligence when you bought that property, whether you knew about it. We in protection of our residents here and and not to have to go through this issue again is provide that information to the property owner. So this way they cannot
say they didn't know if something does happen because we will have provided it to them as a means of also protecting our residents. That's all. Just write the just write a letter and provide all the what occurred prior to the okay.
They can make their decision as to how they're going to go forward. I completely understand as the mayor has said in regards to uh can't go onto their property but I think this is a reasonable way of getting the uh the question answered satisfactory where the
town has done due diligence by providing everything to them and it's their choice if something happens they cannot say we didn't know because otherwise that falls back on us. So basically what you're talking about
is providing factual information with no ask associated with it. No question about permitting or anything like that. Just providing factual information >> and and they can they can deem whether they want to go forward with it uh at that time whether they want it on protection themselves as a as a good
effort is to um do a test well and maybe ask the state to come back in test test again. I don't think uh it would be that hard or also uh uh to have have the wells that exist and I believe they still exist. >> They've been decommissioned
>> but they still exist. >> No, they they've been decommissioned. >> They've been closed up. >> I thought I saw them on the on certain areas of in town in this round. >> Not not on on from 111 Spring Street, which is >> on on their property. >> On their property, there were 28 samples
collected within the biologically active zone. uh all were analyzed for PCBs which were not detected in any of those samples. A total >> only PCBs >> a total of seven samples were collected from within the biologically active zone for TAL pesticides and lead.
uh a review of the data identified some low-level exceedences of applicable ESC's for uh dyrin um >> t ddt uh samples
I I can share this with you I mean it's it's pretty excessive um you know but >> but did they test it for explicit what was known >> in other words and that's unlike having a CBC I'd have to read through the entire report. Um, but their
recommendation is that >> I can hold on. >> But this is new as of this week is what you're >> as of yesterday. >> As of yesterday. Okay. So, this is new information. >> Mhm. >> Well, let me ask you something. I mean, this is regarding, you know, the demolition permit at 6:30. >> Now,
once there's a permit to build, will there be soil samples? Will there be soil testing before permits are issued to actually build? >> My my understanding is whenever whenever
there's a new building, soil samples have to be taken, but that you don't have to do it for demolition, but there's nothing existing. >> And so if the soil is tested upon, you know, for the building department portion of it,
>> I'm sure that'll be a matter of public record. And that would actually be more beneficial for your concerns because it's after whatever disruption may happen. Even though understanding that the issue is down 100 ft in the bedrock, >> right? This like the soil that existing
on that property um could very well be not contaminated. I I don't I don't doubt it. The problem comes down to it is what has gone down into the water down below. uh when you start blasting
you're going to cause fractures. >> So there's not going to be any blasting. It's it it this is a almost >> it's not they're not even digging the dirt out. They're just going to >> remove the building.
>> I'm only here speaking from what I know and what I've experienced. Uh uh that that >> you can take this because this is >> I would like to read that. Thank you. >> But I'll tell you it's a slam. Okay. >> Not going down. >> So, there's no basement. >> Right. Right. Um,
>> and we don't have well water here that we're using, you know, for our drinking purposes. So, I'm not trying to like make light of anything, but >> you know, one of the biggest concerns with any contaminated site, and you know, they use the word contaminated sort of loosely because any sort of industrial area or commercial area that
needs to be excavated uh or um turned into another property will be considered, you know, a contamination site just because it's not the original purpose of what it was before. And I think a lot of the biggest concern that people have is when they hear contaminated and it gets into the water
is that, oh, I'm drinking this. But, you know, we we don't have well water here. Um, so maybe you could just rest a little bit easier that piece, >> right? Okay. You got Allan and Al. Okay. Um, >> let's talk about being in real estate,
you know, the issue that comes up with Ron and how radon travels and my concern is that this disturbance, deep disturbance, uh, can very well cause a release. And that's what I'm that's what I want to
just let the owner of the property know what he he's in a he's in a territory that's been identified. Um maybe maybe deemed clean right now. I don't know how many test wells are really there on his site. Um
but that he's this was the information courtesy this when the town received all the information. Here's the information we've received. We want to let you be aware of this and obviously you can go forward. You you have the choice of going forward with it. We would like the
town to keep everything quiet because there's enough issues with this is that yeah, you know, we we can do we can we can do a a little better monitoring now that we became aware of this and a good working relationship with the community. It's um my whole thing here is that the
information that had exist even though it may be deemed clean is provided directly to the property owner did to decide what he's going to do. >> It's already been done. >> The the old report >> that the construction official has
already told the uh the owner of the property. I personally would like to see it official from our point of from the town that the town provides legal the legal information not from a from a conversation that did exist. I would
like to see a paper trail go from the town >> by certified mail to the owner. >> I will let uh Mr. Robertson decide. Okay, that's I mean that that I think that would be >> we're just >> we're just strategy. >> We're going around right now as a strategy now. It's becoming more of a
strategy just that I'm just here to say that this does exist. I did follow up with the state. I did have follow-ups of uh conversation with the state at the time and I've also seen how the property has continuously switched hands from one company. >> You're talking about a different property.
>> No, I'm talking about spring. I'm I'm talking about the the the the actual site where it occurred. >> It occurred what you're talking about the across the street. >> North American Phillips, they still are are in charge the responsible for the
remediation. >> Right. But North American Phillips was like one of many many companies that hold this property. >> They're still Yeah. >> They they're still in charge of uh being responsible for the remediation. But that but they've been certified
saying that the remediation is cleaned. They this been North American Phillips have been told that uh it's okay now. >> But we're talking two different >> No, but they're they're saying it's okay. I'm just saying that we're having >> about 6:30 central, >> right?
>> They had no there was only there only thing on that property before then before Martinale Hubble were green houses, >> right? >> No computer chips, nothing. I agree that there's no there's no concern there. But I'm just saying is that why >> you keep bringing that up?
>> Well, because the state identified in the plume is identified and that it contains Spring Street that contains Spring Street >> and that's been clean. >> But that's that's clean to the best of their knowledge.
Uh but I don't I I don't know all those trans those information has been provided. I'm just saying that from myself as a resident is that I would like to see the town send a certified letter. >> You've made that clear. >> That's it. Uh you know and you know they
can go forward >> to Mr. Robertson. >> Yep. That's uh this prevents the this helps the residents in the town. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Thank you for your concern >> after 40ome years, right? >> Yeah. Um,
are you still on this piece of property? This this is one issue right here. >> Yeah, that that's what we're talking about. >> Okay. Uh, there is one question. There's a just something that I would like to mention regarding that area of property
and that's and I think it's very noticeable right now on the central on the central avenue uh street there's parking allowed on both sides of the street. Am I correct there? Well, that has nothing to do with this. >> No, but I'm just I'm just saying I know
that's why I asked for uh an indulgence to just mention this. >> Uh yeah, it is. >> Okay. Is that you you have gyms, you have uh you know the swimming, the the the tennis, the
gym, other constructions going on there, parking, which is going to be very very tight in that uh in these developments that are coming out there. It's going to overflow onto Central Avenue. We're going to have we're going to have parking on both sides of the street. And
if you can take a look, if you drive down Central Avenue right now with the with the uh snow, um that it's uh it's street's going to get very narrow. Going to get very narrow. I mean, when it comes down snowfall, I have traffic backed up two blocks before the school uh just to try
and get out of the driveway. that perhaps the town could end up removing parking on one side of the street. >> I I don't think there's any parking on Central. >> Yes, there is. Both sides. >> Both sides. >> Really? >> I think cuz I like my daughter goes to AWR, so I'd probably pass your house at
>> Yeah, we look at the lines on the side of the street. You have the main lines, you have the park. >> I definitely have seen people park on the opposite side of the street where um you know where the swimming club is, but I mean you see it down. >> Um >> yeah, you have it there. You have you have the school, you have the daycare.
>> I'll talk to the traffic officer. >> I think that one the uh it should be limited to only one side of the street. You know, you have the uh soccer fields there, you have the daycarees there. The daycare is a perfect example. You'll see parking in front of the daycare that's on the street right now where MOS is.
And um and it's only going to get worse. It's going to get uh very, very worse. Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else? Seeing no one, I declare the public
hearing closed on that. Okay. Uh let's go to committee reports. Uh I have a couple things. Uh we had an overview last week from the police department about traffic and parking.
>> Thanks for coming, Phil. >> Anytime every quarter century, >> you know. Um, you know, um, I promised everybody, I guess it was four years ago when we did
we cut the the, uh, the town in quarters and we have, uh, different things going on. It It was a good presentation by Dan. Uh, but I will bring up the parking central
avenue. It may may be something that works. closing off one side, no parking. Um, but we're no different than any other, but our our crime rate is a lot lower than a lot of the other communities are.
And I think that that has to do with people just being vigilant. And uh, like I say to everybody, you get up in the middle of the night, take a peek out the window. You know, if you see something that's shouldn't be there, please make a
phone call. that, you know, a lot of the the people that you catch doing bad things are done by accident. Somebody just just looks out the window, that's not right, and they call up. So, but uh
we're we're doing a lot more with the uh slowing traffic down, trying to get pedestrian safety, getting more of the flashing, uh beacons in the crosswalk. So, it's all good. Each quadrant in the
town has two officers assigned to it for uh a neighborhood watch type thing. So um things are going really well on that front. We just had a meeting public safety with the fire department. They need volunteers,
you know. Uh I think they're there's scheduled to get almost 200 more calls this year over last year. the way it's tracking, you know, they go out with water main breaks, they go out for everything, all
accidents. So, we're trying to come up with a plan to try and get more more volunteers. Uh the chief also was made the emergency management coordinator and he has a lot of good ideas to inform the
public and in a faster way besides uh the website and uh Smart 911, but I do ask that everybody sign up for Smart 911. It's a good way to get information
if there's a problem out there. So, um, what else we have? Oh, I went to a a Eagle Scout ceremony where two twins uh were given Eagle Scouts. The troop is
in Chadam. And I didn't know this troop exist, but it's all female. And I am so proud of these two two young women to get the Eagle Scout. And you know there must there were 50 50
young women in that troop. And it's amazing. I don't think we have 50 in the two two troops here in New Providence. >> Maybe if you add them together. >> Yeah, that's what I'm saying. Maybe. >> Yeah, 280 is fantastic. My daughter's
starting in in a couple of months. very much looking forward to it. >> Yeah. So, but uh I thought it was amazing and Na and uh and and uh Raugi rema
um they're fantastic. In fact, I got to talk to you today about one of them's looking to do an internship. So, um just just incredible kids. And we have a
Valentine's Day coming up. Everybody love each other. Let's be respectful. >> And uh unfortunately, the bad news that happened last week is that we're going to have six more weeks of winter.
>> The business association came up with an idea to have me hold the groundhog. Thank god it was a stuffed groundhog. And uh we have our own Pioneer Pete. So maybe that'll uh you know be a fun thing
to do in uh February. So everybody please support uh the town businesses with all the snow and everything else. It's hard to get around. So we have everything here in
town that you need. So uh support our local businesses. Okay. Uh who's next? Alan. >> Uh before I start, I did want to say one thing. Um I'm not on the public safety committee, but and it's sort of out of our jurisdiction, but there has been a
lot of chatter about the uh the crossing over into Chattam the on Central and River Road is in desperate need of a four-way stop sign. Is there some way we can get in touch with Chadam? >> Already? I already have.
>> Okay. And they put a temporary light in Union County because we did that project. >> Well, they took the light out and then there was like three accidents already. >> I know. My wife works in FA Township. >> Yeah. I travel there almost, you know, three times a week. >> She has to go through that intersection.
It's a dangerous intersection. Now, they're all they're aware, but to put a light in >> Well, I don't think a light I think a four-way stop sign would be more than adequate and just >> better in the temporary. >> That's up to That's not a county road. I know. >> So that's up to to up to Chhattam
Township, but I'll mention it again and they'll have to go through a warrant study and all that. So >> Okay. >> It's it it's not an easy process. >> I think easier if they're not called on it, you know,
>> but uh yeah, it's dangerous. >> Thank you. Okay. So, uh community activities. Um let's see what do we have here. Uh so registration is open now uh on the um community pass. There are still coaches
that are needed for T-ball and grades one and two baseball. Uh so please consider volunteering. Um registration you know is ongoing. Uh the programs that are offered right now, you know, co-ed T-ball kindergarten or age five by March 1st, 2026, co-ed baseball grades 1
and two, boys diamond ready baseball clinic, grades three and four, five and six. Um registration good. Um and so I think registration go uh is ongoing and there's um something is expiring uh this Friday. Um, let's
see. Uh, public works and wastewater treatment. We, me and Brian had a a really long visit. Uh, you know, Diane had said, "Can I make one suggestion to you? Don't visit, you know, DPW during the winter." And it was like, "It has to
be done." And this is after the snowstorm, so it was still, you know, pretty a mess. But they they run a really tight ship there. and we both have a newfound respect for what goes on at the facility and the personnel there and how it sort of
operates and it's it's like a pretty welloiled machine that they have going there. Um so the pending equipment replacements in 2026 that they're looking for uh you know chemical pumps uh hypocchloride and sulfur dioxide system uh two second stage pumps and
motors um safety hatches in the pump building. I think we already approved that. um a primary uh clarifier tank restoration drive and arms uh plastic filter the tank restoration and replace media and uh rock filter for conversion
to a holding tank. Um other than that let's see uh sustainability my notes um we're going to be bidding out for the uh compost program. Um
I went to the uh you know coffee with uh Drs. Zerpley this morning and just got some information about some of the board of ed stuff. The next board of ed meeting is um next week. So if I encourage everybody to go to that. We
had a meeting with uh some of the members of the pool board and some of the internal you know peoples. Um they are finalizing their lease. So hopefully we'll Okay, fine. You'll talk about that. Like I said, so uh uh Councilwoman uh
Dolan will be uh addressing that. So you can scratch everything I said and um I'll turn it over to I'm staying my lane. Sorry. >> I'm still new to this. >> Just kidding. >> Okay, >> you done?
>> Floor is yours, Councilwoman. >> Um thank you. I just want to talk about the diversity committee quickly. We did have a meeting um and we're now need to schedule a second meeting to just get the framework established for this
committee taking on ownership of running the meeting, establish a chair, all the logistics that go into getting uh getting the group underway. Um so uh nothing new other than that to report although the meetings will be scheduled.
Um for the new Providence Municipal Alliance, we met on February 4th. and we've reviewed the adjustments that are being made to the programming they support. Uh there were changes in the funding guidelines I think that we mentioned before um the funding provided by the governor's council on substance
use disorder. So they have to adjust the way that they have been um putting forward their educational programming. Um the next thing coming up for them is that they're co-sponsoring the latest installment in the parent wellness education series featuring the screeners
films. Uh there was one last year. Uh they're going to have one this year as well. And it's titled Screenagers Under the Influence, which addresses vaping, drugs, and alcohol in the digital age. That will be at the New Providence High School Auditorium on Tuesday, February
24th, starting at 6:30 p.m. followed by a panel discussion. And parents, caregivers, and students are encouraged to attend. Uh for the New Providence Community Pool, uh efforts are continuing in collaboration with the pool board. Uh, as the 2026 pool season
approaches, uh, New Providence residents might be aware that, uh, community pools in some of our surrounding towns are dealing with declining registrations. Over the past few years, our pool is no exception. Uh, so we're working with the pool board to identify ways to increase
membership, uh, reduce expens expenditures where possible. Um but just it it's also important to note that the New Providence Community Pool is 100% responsible for operating the pool. Um they are under a land lease
agreement with the bureau and they are a 501c7 organization which is a member benefit entity. Uh that's different than a 501c3 which is a public benefit entity. Um so more information will be coming soon uh
about registration for the 2026 season. So stay tuned for that. Uh New Providence Historical Society, the next meeting will be Thursday, February 19th at 7. Um if you were able to attend the January 30th Colonial Libations event at
the Saltbox Museum, uh hopefully you had a good time. I know I attended um that session in November and it was really great not only to experience the libations, but to um understand more about the history of New Providence. It's a really It's a great resource for
people and they're always looking for new members. So, please go to newprovidencehistorical.com and sign up. That's all, Mayor. >> Okay. >> Thank you. I only have one little thing and it's actually a little bit fun. So, I was clearing out Alex's backpack today
and he came home with Flat George Washington. So, the elementary schools are going to be giving out flat George Washington and on this side is flat syibble. So, the kids are going to color them and I believe they're going to mail them out
to a relative. So, why am I talking about this? This is all about America 250. So, this is our our next installment in the America 250 um that's coming out of the schools um as a way to educate the children about our founding fathers.
Fun little fact about Cibil. Um she was um an actually more successful version of Paul Riverier and she rode farther and stayed out longer than he did. And uh you may note she has a little lantern which reminds me of the lantern thing
going on right now in town. So if you did not buy your lanterns and put them out, word is spreading. The revolution is spreading. So get your lanterns out for America 250. >> Girl power. >> Yes. Solar power. They're actually >> No, I said girl power. >> Girl power girl and girl.
>> Go Siblings. >> So yeah, you probably your daughter probably got this. So check out her backpack. >> She should have it. >> So we were talking about the collaboration for Rev 250, how the historical society, the library, the schools are all doing their part. So this is what the schools are doing to
teach the kids about >> our 250th. >> Yeah, it was really cool. So I think we'll color it and probably mail it to family either in Utah or Colorado. So, and that's it for me. >> Thank you, Lisa.
>> Thank you. Um, so our seniors, um, my last report, we had met with Allison and Michelle to go over, you know, what what we can do for the seniors, how we can communicate with them, how we can provide resources and information that
they need. Um we we had said at the last meeting that we would put together a schedule to um have at least two of our council members uh pres not present but just be at the Dorso and at Lantern Hill
to sort of like a catchup, you know, um if they are not able to come to council meetings, if they are not, you know, if they're not watching it and they just want to get some information as to what's going on on the in the burrow, some of the things that we're dealing with firsthand. Um that this is going to
be a good opportunity for us to be able to communicate with them. So we did put a schedule together. We will be uh at the Dorso for uh every quarter and we will be at Lantern Hill as well every quarter. Our first date is March 27th
actually for both. Uh we'll be at Dorso in the morning and at Lantern Hill in the afternoon. Um and then we'll we'll take it from there. And like I said, we'll be rotating so it's not going to be the same same faces. >> I was just about to ask that question. >> Yeah, definitely. >> Yeah. So, we'll rotate it, you know, two
people um at each at each one. Give everybody an opportunity. >> And also, we'll be looking to go to Barab Bash Manor as well. >> Oh, Barab Bash as well. Yes. >> Yes. Um a lot of times they're not as engaged um with the senior center as a lot of the other residents are. So, it's always really nice to go in there. So,
we haven't really moved too much forward with that yet, but stay tuned for that. >> Uh, the finance committee met on uh last week. We went through the first draft of the budget. Um, you know, just out of
high level glance, what we're seeing is some increased costs um and things that we don't really have wiggle room with. They're fixed costs that come down to us. uh for instance, you know, pensions, but insurance is is one of the areas and we have a lot of
insurance um in in all regards um in all different sectors. So, liability and auto and health and you name it. Uh so, we're seeing some big bumps to expenses in those areas. Um Brian and I will dig
into it a little bit more and you know, we'll we'll keep working on it. Stay tuned. That's >> it. Go ahead, Brian. >> All righty. Um, most of my committees have not met since the last report, but just a couple of updates. Um, uh, mental
health, uh, A&E committee. The next meeting is Wednesday the 18th of February, so please come. Um, Councilwoman, uh, Joffrey and I had a had a chance to go to the cross town mental health coalition, the kickoff for this year. Um, it was a really great
event. It was it was something like a dozen towns in the region coming together to talk about mental health and and how to show a shared commitment across the region to mental health. So to to me it's everything that Mayor Morgan talks about coming together doing good things together. Uh so please look
out for more for that and please uh come to the mental health A&E uh meeting volunteer. We have way more ideas than we have people for. So we we really need your help. Um, I also had a chance to go to the Union County Commissioners meeting, uh, their their first meeting
of the year in January. Um, it was a fascinating experience, including driving in Elizabeth, uh, a couple days after a snowstorm. That was fun. >> It's beautiful this time of year. >> That's a word. Um, uh, although I got to say that their c their council chamber
is way nicer than ours. Um, but a couple of things that they were highlighting. Um, there's a lot of events going on around the county for Black History Month. So, uh, information is available online for that. Uh, please check that out. And they also highlighted the aging
services kiosk events. I didn't know that this was a thing, so I thought it would be good to share. Um, there are a series of events for seniors and caregivers of seniors to help them get access to services and all the things that the county can provide. The next one is at the Westfield Memorial Library
on February 17th. So, if you are a senior or a caregiver for a senior, check that out. And the the idea is that they they just kind of have all of the information of all the things that are available for seniors and supporting seniors. Um, and that's my report. >> So, Brian, are they going to be going to
all the different towns and talk about that? >> So, the the list for February only had Hillside, Fanwood, and Westfield, and Westfield's the only one left. I don't know if they're going to keep going. Um, they just published the list for for February. The the the the resources are there anytime. They just are kind of bringing them around to the various
towns. >> Like a road show. I think that would be great. Wish we can get >> I've seen them. Yeah, they started that I think maybe I know I saw it last year that they were doing that but um we should see if maybe they would come to >> Yeah, that would be great. >> Yeah, absolutely. >> Look into that.
>> Well, you should go go around and have their their regular meetings in different towns. >> Oh, really? Okay. >> They had it here one time. Okay. >> That would be nice. What a great idea. >> Yeah. And anyway, uh, one thing I did forget,
I was at the Chamber of Commerce twice a year, they have the mayors from, uh, Summit in Providence, Berkeley Heights, and we give an update to the business community and tell them what's going on. And the one thing I have to say, which
is really good, is that the the three towns, we really work well together. >> Yeah. and we help each other out. Um, it's it's really amazing. Usually, a lot of times you don't get that between
towns, but we've been doing it for a long time. As long as I remember, we both worked together. And you have to realize that years ago, all three towns were in Providence. So,
>> and I don't let them forget it. >> Never. But uh you know we we just have a great relationship and and work well together. So um no the business community re really is impressed by that. You know if somebody needs a piece
of equipment you know we help each other out. Whatever whatever each other needs we we'll do it. We tend to help. So, but there is one thing I want to bring up and uh let's see.
I'm looking for that uh uh Bernardet sent us a uh a breakdown of how much the storm cost, >> how many hours the guys work. >> A lot. That was in a >> I'm trying to find it here. >> Mayor, I have it. if you want it.
>> Yeah. >> Oh, I do have it. Okay. Uh we uh incurred about 140,000 in snow removal related cost and DPW overtime was 26,000.
The salt was 22,000. Outside contractors were 88,000. >> Wow. that public works logged in a total of 834 and a half hours
for storm operations. I mean, it's unbelievable. 365 regular manh hours and 469 and a half overtime hours. People really
don't realize that we have 42 linear feet uh feet of road miles >> miles of road. And I've been out there with the boys plowing. It's not fun.
>> It's it it's really it's really plays on your head. You're out there and you just keep going round and round. Especially when you get snow like we had before. You clean one one area, you come back an hour later and it's filled up
again. >> So, it's a tough time. >> But >> it's like one of those cartoons where like you plug one hole and water comes out the other plug and it just bounce back and forth. >> But the last two storms have been tough because they've just dragged out. You
know, sometimes you're better off just getting your foot and it's out of here and they could just clean up. >> Cole didn't help either. >> No, no, but I thought it'd be interesting everybody heard that. Okay, >> that you're up.
>> Operation's normal. >> Perfect. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> And thank you. Thank you for what you do because you're right in the middle of that storm things. Okay. At this time we have public comments. Anybody wishing wish? Yeah, Phil.
>> First of all, Phil Dying, 40 drive, New Province, New Jersey. Um, I'd like to thank all of you for all your time and effort. It's a it's a thankless job if if you especially need to try and do it right, which you guys apparently have been doing. Um,
that last comment about the snow plowing. Now, I remember snow plowing from years ago when we used to have snow and when the snow plowers went out, they went out in their beat up jeeps and trucks. >> Mhm. >> Uh they realized what, you know, what it
was going to do to them. Currently, our contractors seem to be more caring about their trucks than about how the snow plow. I mean, they have nice brand new trucks and they're doing their job, but they're not doing it completely. And uh I'm I'm sorry, but
the uh they're my experience and and history I've seen, they're not as attentive to doing the job as I believe that they should be. That's the contractors. Um you know, I imagine apparently it pays well based upon the breakout of how
much money was spent. But they have to realize that this is a hard job that they're doing. And I know they don't want to get their trucks or the, you know, the the frame twisted a little bit, but that's what they're being paid for. They're being paid for at that rate to do that type of
a job. And I would like to see them um being a little more held accountable. >> I mean, I end up taking my uh my snow plow uh or you know, the uh handhold and I go up and down the streets on the side of my street just to make sure that
there's room to end up moving. They don't push to the side. They're afraid they're going to clip the curb. They need to push over. We were very, very lucky this time that we didn't get that second storm that that we was projected the week afterwards because if that had happened,
>> we would have been in terrible shape. >> Yeah, I know. We had a problem with that one contractor. It's been addressed. >> Okay. >> We had to go back to Robert's school. It was >> It was bad. So, yeah, you're right. you know, and everybody says, >> you know, curb the curb.
>> The these did these guys um you know, they don't remember the storms of the 70s and the 80s when it used to pile up. Um you know, they were they were kids. They they if they were here yet. Um but you know, snow plowing was a a job that
you know, you use your old equipment with. That brings up the issue about why I'm out there in the street uh uh pushing the snow back in or blowing it over there. I'm on the student walkway to the
school on Hawthorne Drive. And as you know, the traffic gets backed up and you should see some of the drivers and how they interact with the kids that are walking on the street and they're slowing up. They're speeding up.
They're they're they're looking at their watch or doing what they have to do. Now, for better than seven years, I've been waiting for this these sidewalks that are supposed to be coming down on Hawthorne. We were approved, supposedly
funded, and everything was in place. Um, my question is, are we I'm not I'm not I'm not paving my driveway until until they end up getting uh the sidewalks in, but what's happening with it? It's been
seven years. It was approved. This was a state mandatory. Uh there was supposed to be bids that had gone out and and funding that was supposed to been secure, but this is seven years Safe route to school is in the final design phase in your area. They have not
gone out to bid yet. >> That's what we were told. We had a meeting here about a year and a half ago. >> You were never told that it went out to bid because it has not gone out to bid >> when you had the meeting here. >> I was here, >> right? And we and we talked about it and everything. And um >> we were hoping to go out the next
summer, >> right? Um and they didn't go out. >> Well, I'm assuming based upon what you had said at that time, I didn't follow up with it. I don't have any school age kids right now, but you know, this goes back, you know, I had conversations with Doug before, you know, we had to go from step to step to step. Yep.
>> They were they were supposedly measuring. They did all the measurements uh as to how much they were going to calculate. >> But we have never heard about what's going on. You know, what is going on? And to see these kids dodging the cars on that street. I mean, they are dodging
cars. Uh in fact, one of our neighbors was actually hit. uh their their child was hit. >> Um luckily it wasn't much, but it was it was bumped and pushed over to the side. >> Uh can I ask the council
what's going on and how can we get this updated >> and and sort of like push push forward? I mean, uh >> as soon as we get the the bid specs, they will go out to bid. We we don't have them yet from from the company that was hired to design it.
Do they have a contractual due date for those? >> No. >> Can we It's a federal government. >> It's a federal grant. >> Every every that's safe roots to school is amazing. It's great. You look at all these areas. You do this, you do this, you do this, but then it goes into the federal government system and that's it
takes forever. >> It comes from the f the grant comes from the federal government. >> Do we have the money? That's that was my question. >> It's not Yeah, we have the money. >> No, it's not about the money. They It's on the money and what they do. You have
to use their their engineers, >> theirs, their their their people. So if they don't come up with this stuff, we can't do it. >> What's our congressman doing to help us alleviate this problem? >> He's going to be in town on Friday. >> Yeah, let's ask him.
>> Ask him on Friday. >> I mean, it's I just don't want to end up seeing something happen in front of my house or on the street there. It's been close. >> Um, >> as somebody who I drive my daughter to and from AWR, sometimes I carpool with
other kids and I see the high school kids, middle school kids walking all the time, even some of the elementary school kids. >> And you're right, like there's no respect for for like the people on the road. >> I step in the middle of the street sometimes just to slow the cars down.
>> Yeah. I mean, I always 25 miles per hour. I always make sure to go like, >> you know, people are beeping behind me, but I I know there's like the same three people that are walking on that street all the time and >> with, you know, the crossing guard holding up cars, then they sort of just
speed up so they can like 30 seconds of time to get from AWR, >> you know, to central. It It's It's definitely needed. >> I want to get my driveway paved. I mean, it comes down to I've got potholes in my driveway, but I'm not going to get it done until until I get the sidewalks in
because I want to make sure everything is done complete. >> Fair enough. And I again, I don't see it want to see any kids. Um uh >> Thank you. Well, I I I appreciate that there on those two points in regards to
who was doing the uh um historical and and scouting issues. The you know on the on the um on the westbound side of uh South Street, there are very few parks. Most of the parks in
town are on the other side of South Street, and that's always been a discussion on our side of town. um the uh uh down where Central Avenue where the power lines cross and everything. >> Yeah.
>> Yeah. That there's a huge huge track of land that's down there. >> The counties. >> Well, it's a combination of several. Uh who was the the mayor um prior to you? The the old guy >> who had Parkinson's.
>> Oh, Harold. >> Barney. Yeah. how, you know, years ago when I was somewhat involved in trying to get things done for the kids and everything, uh, I I met with the state, I met with the county, uh, Dan Baneer at that time and, uh, and the state
representative from the DP and, uh, we talked about that piece of property there. I talked with the c I talked with the power companies at that time as what could end up being used. You know, there's there's a lot of there's a lot of land there that and they can it and falls under a cut and cover that you you
can move things around to end up developing something, but there is an historical piece of property there too that you can if you look at the tax map, there is off of Central Avenue going to the left toward Berkeley Heights, there's a there's a cut uh probably
about 8t 10t wide that goes to a point down the river where there at in historically that's where there was canoe launches and boat launches on the on the Pakic River in New Providence. It exists. I mean, we have the right away.
It's our property uh down there. Perhaps something that the scouts or somebody could end up doing is to redevelop that. >> It's It exists. >> Look at it. >> Yeah. Okay. Okay. >> Thanks a lot, guys. And best of luck. Thank you. Appreciate it.
>> Anyone else wishing to address council? Yes. Um Alan Swanson, 47 Overh Hill Road. I I wanted to express my um disappointment that uh at a time when
we're systematically eliminating black history from our parks and our uh monuments and government documents. um that uh we were systematically
eliminating the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Uh, president is posting vile videos
that talking about Black History Month that you haven't put out any kind of a indication or proclamation related to um, Black History Month uh, from this institution.
Um, so I I I'm just disappointed um is what I want to express. You you have done this in the past um proclamations. In fact,
some years ago I even what George Floyd um I recall when right here in Centennial Park that you're talking about that black lives matter. uh Mayor Morgan. Um
and um and the the proclamation that was done in in 24 2024 was was rather comprehensive. Um so I mean I just that's that's really
all I want to say and I I wish that you would perhaps rectify that before the end of the month. Thank you. Appreciate it. >> Thanks. >> Anyone else? Seeing no one, I declare the public
hearing closed. I need a motion for items one through >> 10. >> 10. >> Yeah. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Mr. Learner. I
>> Miss Dolan. >> Yes, >> Mrs. Joffrey. >> Yes, >> Mrs. Mcnite. >> Yes, >> Mr. Gardner. >> I motion for adjournment. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Yes. >> Yes.
>> No. So be it. Thank you all for coming tonight. >> Somebody I'm going to vote against. Be safe out there. Thank you. All right.