Meeting called to order. This is the January 20th, 2026 meeting of the Burough of Oakland Mayor and Council. Would this clerk please read the statement? >> This meeting is being held in accordance with the open public meetings law duly announced. advertised and posted in the
municipal building. The meeting will adjourn no later than 10 p.m. unless a majority of the council members that are present vote to extend the time. >> All rise for a pledge of allegiance. >> Councilman Fatali, would you lead us in the pledge? >> Yes. Thank you. I >> aliance to the flag of the United States
of America and to the republic for it stands nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Remain standing for a moment of silence, please. Would the clerk call the role, please? >> Council President Talini
>> here. >> Councilman Eert >> here. >> Councilman Pigmentali >> here. >> Councilwoman Rose >> here. >> Councilman Saliani >> here. >> Mayor Kamala >> present. All right, we have a couple celebrations today. Um, first group we're going to be bringing up, I'd like
to ask uh uh the chief of police to come up. Uh, Sergeant Jonathan Coleman to come up, officer Ed McDermott and Officers Nicholas Marisich. >> Marisich? No problem. >> So, the backstory is, and I'm going to
throw it to Mr. McDerman just a little bit. uh Oakland welcomed its newest resident uh that was born in Oakland on December 7th, 2025. It's a nice young man and these three officers here had the privilege of delivering the baby.
So, we've got a couple of certificates for proclamations for you, but at this time, I'd like to ask uh Officer McDermott uh just just so everybody knows, Officer McDermott, his he has been a 36-year EMT. He started his his career in public safety in Edgewater,
New Jersey, and he's currently still an EMT and and and why don't you tell us the story of what happened on that wonderful day? >> I'd be happy to. So, uh, our squad was working that night. We're on patrol, a normal night like any other night, and we got a call for a possible, uh, child
birth in progress. So, we all got there as fast as possible, and we found a young woman who was doing all of the work. we just assisted her. So, a few years ago, we added in the equipment that we
need to give birth to a child um because we had an incident where a child was born and we didn't really have it. So, I tactically acquired it from the first aid squad which I aocate member of and we gave birth to this child a couple years ago. So, after that, now all of our patrol cars have this equipment that
is needed. So we all got there and we worked seamlessly and honestly in my 37th year of doing this or just just started. I couldn't be happier about the people I work with >> because they all work together. There's
no there's no issues, no no problems, no wonderful it. We are great in people inside the station, people outside the station. We do our job and that's what matters for the people that we serve. So that's what happened that night. It was nothing heroic and we just did our jobs.
And I was very, very, very happy to be part of that puzzle of people who did our jobs. Sergeant Cole was in charge. We did it great. We all did what we had to do. So, but this young lady actually deserves all the accolades because she gave birth to that child. And uh we was
there to kind of help and catch um and it all worked out great. And you know, that's a pretty cool thing and doesn't happen that often. So the accolades really should go to her. So that's my thoughts. >> Thank you. [applause] >> So we have several certificates. First
I'm going to start with Sergeant. It says recognition of exemplary service Jonathan Coleman. On December 7th, 2025, Sergeant Jonathan Coleman of the Oakland Police Department responded to an emergency call involving a woman in labor at a private residence within the burrow. Upon arrival, Sergeant Coleman
was confronted with a rare and critical situation requiring immediate action. He assumed command of the scene without hesitation, providing calm, decisive leadership and coordinating efforts under extremely stressful circumstances. His ability to assess the situation quickly and direct resources effectively
ensured the proper procedures were followed during the unexpected field delivery. Through his steady guidance and hands-on involvement, Sergeant Coleman helped facilitate the safe delivery of a healthy baby boy, maintaining order and reassurance until Valley Hospital paramedics arrived. His leadership was instrumental in achieving
the positive outcome for both the mother and the child. Sergeant Coleman's actions exemplify the highest standards of supervisory leadership, professionalism, and public service. His conduct reflects great credit upon himself, the Oakland Police Department, and the Burough of Oakland. On behalf of the mayor, Eric Kamala, council
president Russell Talamini, Councilman Bill Eer, Councilman Pat Pignatelli, Councilman Rose, and Councilman Steve Saliani. Sorry. Thank you very much. [applause] [applause] Next, we have recognition of exemplary service for Officer Edward McDerman. On
December 7th, 2025, Officer Edward McDerman of the Oakland Police Department responded to an emergency call involving a woman in active labor at a residence in the burrow. Upon arriving at the scene, Officer McDerman demonstrated exceptional composure and preparedness during a highly unusual time-sensitive emergency. Working
closely with Sergeant Jonathan Coleman and Officer Nicholas Maricuch, he utilized the department's obstetrics delivery kit and provided critical assistance during the child birth process. Officer McDerman's calm demeanor, technical skill, and compassionate care were vital in ensuring the safe delivery of a healthy newborn prior to the arrival of the
Valley Hospital paramedics. His actions helped stabilize both the mother and child and contributed significantly to the successful resolution of the incident. Officer McDerman's performance reflects his dedication, training, and commitment to serving the community and brings honor to the Oakland Police Department in the Bur of Oakland.
[applause] By the way, I should also mention that uh the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Ed's daughter is also an EMT in the burrow of Oakland as well. And how many years has she been on it? >> Uh three, four years, something like that. So, >> so it's been a bit >> runs in the family.
>> Yes. >> All right. Last one is for officer Nicholas Marisich. On December 7th, 2025, Officer Nicl Maricuch of the Oakland Police Department responded to an emergency call involving a woman in active labor at the girl residence. Faced with an urgent and emotionally charged situation, Officer Marisich
responded with professional professionalism, attentiveness, and compassion. Working with coordination with Sergeant Jonathan Coleman and Officer Edward McDermott, he provided critical support during the emergency delivery, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Officer Marisuch assisted with scene management, preparation of medical
equipment, and continuous care during the delivery, helping maintain a calm, controlled environment until Valley Hospital paramedics and ma first squad arrived. Officer Marisich's actions demonstrate exceptional teamwork, situational awareness, and dedication to duty and exemplify the Oakland Police Department's commitment to protecting
and serving this community. Well done, sir. [applause] Uh, at this time there's a second part to this and I'd like to have the [clears throat] chief of police. He's got a couple words he wants to say. Uh, real quick, I just want to thank the mayor and the council for having us here tonight. We do
appreciate it. But most importantly, I want to thank these three officers up here. Uh, especially Officer McDermott. I know you have 36 years experience as an EMT. Uh, Nick, you've been a cop for how long? >> Seven months. >> Seven months. [laughter] But you did a great job. Okay. I'm proud of you guys. Um, like I said, both personally and
professionally, you're awesome to work with. Thank you so much. Um, for your actions that night, each of you are going to be receiving the life-saving award and the, uh, famous stork pin, which we don't get to give out too often. I think the last time was 15 years ago. So, here's your life-saving
awards, sir. Storin. Sir, you >> for a job well done. Appreciate it. Nick, congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Excellent work. Thank you. Thank you guys. [applause] >> Did you want to say anything?
>> Uh, just thank you, uh, the rest of the administration, Lieutenant O'Keefe, and Lieutenant Brock, Mayor Counsel. [snorts] Uh, this is definitely a call that's probably a once in a career type call. I'm just very glad that everything was positive. Um,
I just want to thank uh Mawa EMS and Valley EMS for coming out making sure mom and baby got to the hospital safely. And to these two, um, it's always a pleasure to work with you two. I'm I'm very proud of you and um, the professionalism you showed that night was was outstanding. So, thank you to
you two as well. [applause] >> Did you want to say anything? You're only the job. No. >> Joe, do you want a picture of us or you got it? [clears throat] >> Nothing. >> Perfect. [applause]
>> Hey, congratulations to you guys. Good job. Thank you. She came in and picked up a bird shipping. Congratulations. Very happy with what the job you guys did. >> Thank you so much. >> Congratulations. Thank you so much. >> Congratulations. >> Good job.
>> Okay. All right. We've also got another celebration today. We got a certificate of recognition uh for if everybody recalls the government shutdown that took place October 1st to November 12th. Um, in the
last week of October, I had received a phone call from Bergen County uh, Commissioner Tracy Zur notifying me of the fact that we have 270 we have 270 families in the burrow that rely on SNAP benefits and the SNAP benefits are
coming to a close. And I had immediately I'd reached out to uh Reverend Nathan Busker and his team uh to see what we can do to supplement these families in need. Uh and on that day, if keep me
honest here, Reverend, uh we had a meeting with Michelle Wro who's here, uh Nathan was here, uh Lindseay Smith was involved that day, Shai Hopkins, and Dr. Kafaro because there was also a need to feed students that rely on uh food
benefits throughout the day and this was coming to a close. What I'd like to do is ask uh Nathan, Michelle to come up real quick and Lindsay because I want them to tell you I want them to tell the story of what happened. >> Start.
>> I told the mayor that she would start. So, first I want to just introduce uh Michelle Winrop. She's the director of food security at Pon Church. Why don't you kind of walk us through what you guys did and and how we got here today? >> Yeah. Well, Pastor Nathan had said that
um it looked like indeed suddenly people weren't going to have money on their SNAP cards. How were they going to get through? There were many families in Oakland that would be affected. And uh he said that mayor had just called and he was on his way over before I stood up from the chair. who was coming through
the door. We sat down as a team and it was basically the questions that we try to ask at the pantry most every week, which is what do people need and how are we going to serve them? How are we going to get through this emergency? Um Lindsay was instrumental in reaching out
to people in the community like Shopright to make it happen. So we said people aren't going to have money on their SNAP cards. we better have ShopRite cards in hand so we can hand them to people who need to go to the grocery store to buy food. Then we said, how are we going to get more food on the
shelves at Pond's Pantry? And indeed, we saw a big increase in the three weeks in November uh through the shutdown. A year ago, we were seeing about 25 families a week at the pantry. By September, we were about double and seeing 50, but through the emergency, we were seeing
between 85 and 100 families a week. Thankfully, it was such a blessing to see the whole Oakland community come together. Uh, Shopright started collecting food. Probably many of you donated there at the store. People were
dropping off cash, dropping off gift cards, dropping off food in abundance at uh at ponds and we had restaurants uh like Angela Franks um saying they would give free meals or discounts for families in need. So the community came
together in just such an incredible way and we find that now that people are more aware that we exist. We're continuing to serve 75 80 families a week and we're the need continues to be there. But without the community's response, we could have never been able
to help the families in the way we did. So thanks to all of you who were part of that. >> Lindsay, do you want to talk about some of the partners that were involved with the Chamber of Commerce? >> Yeah. Um, so when we got the phone call, the Chamber of Commerce immediately said, "Yes, we're going to help." Um, we were able to connect Ponds with
ShopRite. Uh, they were able to donate all the food that week uh for the students who would be not receiving their free and reduced lunch. And then we also reached out to Frank's Pizza, Junior's Pizza and Subs, Lenipe Valley Diner. Uh they were able to offer
coupons immediately uh so that if you were to come into the restaurant, you would receive a free meal. We had um UPS over in ShopRight as well, be able to print out all the materials that we needed in order to advertise at Shopright um and to be able to so people
knew what they needed to donate and where it would go. We have the bins now set up at Shopright in order for people to still donate. Uh we had great work done by Undefeated Media through the Chamber of Commerce in order to promote um sending people to Shopright and what
we were doing. Um I'd love to name everybody. Dr. Kafaro was really instrumental in making sure that we knew the number of students that needed help and obviously the mayor, but the businesses really came together that day. We had Bagel Supreme donated bagels that whole week. Um, it really was
fantastic uh to see the work that we do with the Chamber of Commerce be able to kind of step up into the community. I can't forget Danny uh Dia back there. He's the one that always makes sure that um we're connected with some of the businesses in town. Um again, it's a
community effort and everyone really uh plays a part and so thank you guys. I appreciate it. >> [applause] >> I think what amazed [clears throat] me was the proactiveness. Um I checked out with some colleagues in other communities what were they doing and I heard nothing. They weren't doing
anything. And what I appreciated with the mayor, Lindsay, Michelle and others were they we were asking the questions about um how will people put food on their table? We were going into the week where we had students had Tuesday off
and then they had Thursday and Friday off. Then the question was uh we have over what a hundred students in K through 8 who get free or reduced lunch. >> How are they going to be providing something? So Shopright kicked kicked in. We had other people that came
around. We started providing lunch kits, right? and and this is the kind of response that I think we can take some pride in that Oakland we were proactive in meeting the needs of the community. Uh we also uh with the generosity of the
town were able to give Shopright cards to anyone who came in. They could provide us their address that they were Oakland residents and they showed us their SNAP card. We then gave them um at least $50 each week.
>> Uh the one group that we didn't care where they were from were veterans. >> And we had many, thank you to Jodie, um many veterans who came in needing assistance and we were able to help them. And just to see, um the emotions
of these families um that they were so grateful that there was some place they could go to assist them. So, thank you. Thank you to Oakland. You guys it really together we did it. So [applause]
>> you're not going to read all those, right? >> No, I'm going to I'm going to read one. But we have proclamations for the uh Oakland Chamber of Commerce, Ponds Reformed Church, Shopright of Oakland, Bagel Supreme of Oakland, Lanop Valley Diner, Junior's Pizza and Subs, Frank's Pizza, Dr. Kafaro, and UPS of Oakland.
So, I'm just going to read the one proclamation that's going to go to Pon's Church. Uh, the all the others are the same. We just changed the names on them and we'll present them at the end. So, let me read this. >> So, this is Burough of Oakland, Bergen County Proclamation. Thanking Paw Reform
Church and the food pantry for supporting the Oakland community during the SNAP benefits freeze. Whereas a recent federal government shutdown resulted in increased food uncertainty for individuals and families in need of assistance through the SNAP benefits. And whereas various sectors of Oakland's vibrant community came together to
provide resources and steady food supply to the to those in need. And whereas each organization brought their own unique expertise, resources, audience, and connections for the benefit of others. And whereas through the combination of of food and Shopright gift cards, donations, financial
contributions, and meal vouchers from local restaurants, cards for veterans, and meal kits for were prepared for students who receive reduced price lunches. Our community ensured that those who have who have most needed a food assistance would be provided for. And whereas the combin combined efforts
resulted in 270 families being assisted during the critical period of SNAP benefits freeze. And whereas a mayor council's desire to celebrate the extraordinary generosity, community spirit, and cooperation and readiness for prompt action which our community actors exhibited during the
difficult uncertain time. And whereas the pond's reformed church and food pantry played an integral role in the efforts to collect and distribute food to for those in need. Now therefore be proclaimed that the mayor council of the burough of Oakland hereby extend their most sincere gratitude to the ponds reform church and food pantry for the
swift action to support venerable members of the Oakland community. Ponds Reform Church and the food pantry's dedication to serving others serves as a reminder to how resilient and supportive the Oakland community is. We can get through anything together if we lift one another up. Thank you. [applause]
>> Would you like >> Yes. >> Can I have the businesses that are here that are receiving clformations come up please so we can take a photo? If you are a member of the Chamber of Commerce. >> So here Juniors. There he is.
Thank you. >> Gina is on here. I'll take it >> right here. >> And that's it for now. Yep. Danny, do you think you can just step in for a photo, please? Thank you everybody.
[applause] >> Yeah, sure. >> We just uh >> Nathan, you want to say something real quick? >> Yeah. So, uh, like what the second day of of this, you know, catastrophe that was happening, um, Amazon truck showed up, um, and they delivered 61 packages.
Um, we felt really bad for the Amazon guy. We we invited him to come in because he just kept bringing packages off this truck. >> Um, Oakland responded generously. As Michelle said, um the numbers have
continued to grow, but now that we're in the new year, the donations have decreased. So, we're just encouraging folks to uh if you have donations, next time you're out shopping, please pick a few few extra items and drop it by the food
pantry. There's a list of items that we really would like and we can tell you the items that we have lots of. If you have stuffing, keep your stuffing. [laughter] Cranberries, you can keep that, too. And mac and cheese. Yeah, just keep making
that at home. [laughter] So, but anyway, thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> All right, we're going to take a two-minute recess for those people who want to leave and [applause] then we'll continue the meeting. Thank you everybody. Thank you. back to order. Okay, we're we're up to [sighs] the
mayor's report. I only got a few simple housekeeping items. Uh first of all, I want to thank the DPW uh for having the cleanest roads in Bergen County after all the snowstorms. They do an outstanding job uh keeping our roads clean. Uh, also I want to remind everybody to shovel your sidewalks and
fire hydrants. We have another storm coming this weekend. I believe we're looking at down four to six inches. We don't know yet. >> Uh, also dog and cat licenses. Remember the before you go into uh penalties, get it done by February 15th. And currently
right now the count the uh council is working on working on our 2026 budget. And that's really it for my report. Do you have a motion open to public? >> I move. >> Any second? >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Anybody from the public wish to address
the governing body? >> I guess I get to break the ice. Uh Steve Penosian 69 Glen Gray. Uh the first thing I'd like to say is I'm not speaking behalf of the TV committee. I'm a volunteer. But more importantly, um, not only am I a resident of Oakland, but
I'm also a taxpaying resident. There's a difference. You can be a resident here, uh, without being a taxpayer. That leads into what I have to say. I've always supported the council. Um, although I didn't vote for Bill, I've congratulated him and given him uh my support. I'll
give him my support. And I know we have another uh uh another person up that needs to be named and I'll reserve comment until that happens. But what I like to share tonight and I there's no way of sugar coating it but uh it's the
same thing that I present to the board of education when I go to those meetings I'm focused all only on the way tax dollars are managed and spent. I stay away from social issues and for the most part political issues. It's local. Um, we're all neighbors.
Um, but when it gets political, I have to in this case step up and say something. And like what I mentioned about the board of ed, it has to do with accountability and transparency. And tonight, there's two accountability issues that I see, and I brought them up
last year uh after the election. Uh, I still stand by what I said that I believe that the chief of police, who I happened to say hello to earlier, um, I I don't know what the mayor and council
was going to do about his actions. I believe it had an impact on the election. Right or wrong, doesn't matter. But it did. I firmly believe that. I think there's many residents, voting residents and voters in this town that would understand that and see that
and that might impact the next election. By the way, which raises the second u accountability question and that is the governing body. What are you guys going to do about it? If you do nothing, that sets a precedent.
That anybody, including myself, in a volunteer position who always supports the mayor and council with everything you guys and gals do. I didn't vote for Mayor Linda, but I still give her the utmost respect. And from time to time,
I'll admit, we get together for coffee and we have the greatest conversations. But I have to come down to the president and the accountability. What are you guys going to do about it? So, do I get to get up on social media or even step up here and complain about what you guys
did or didn't do and something so so [clears throat] sensitive as throwing an election? Now, I don't know what the results of the arbitration is, but I'm just hearing a few rumors that I I don't know that anything came out of it. So all the
action that came from the chief of police writing that letter because residents voting residents and residents don't support the police. I don't know anybody in this town that doesn't support the Oakland police. I don't need
to put a sign on my front lawn to say supporting our local police or supporting our police. That goes without saying I pay my taxes. That says it all. I don't comprehend somebody not supporting especially local police and there's always breakage. So 1% I don't
know how many people are in our town 12,000 14,000 residents total that might vote I don't know half of that 1% would be under 100 people. So what so 99% of the people residents in our town that vote and residents support the police. It's ridiculous to think that somebody
would spend money to put a sign out. If you felt that much passion or whatever for for the police and that they were doing without or coming short financially, instead of buying signs, donate it to the the police pension, the the police healthcare, whatever your
grief is. And I said that online and I'm saying it publicly, too. I got real issue with that. So, I think I was clear. there's any questions, I'd be more than happy to answer them. I got other things, but I think I'm going to limit that tonight.
And uh there's other meetings. Well, I'll see what I have to say later. >> Thank you, Mr. Thank you. >> Okay. >> Anybody else? >> Thank you. >> Yeah. You want to say something? Yeah, good evening, Will Lensetti, 23 Chickasaw. Thank you for your time. Uh,
like the other gentlemen, I also want to talk about things, but it's more on staying away from politics, but more financials and how our taxpayer dollars are being spent and managed. Uh, for me personally, you know, we pay taxes. It's hard to live in this county. It's hard
to live in this town. I'm sure we all feel it. You know, you know, we talked about before with with the SNAP assistance, with everything else. So for me it's a matter of fiscal management. I mean to understand the fiasco that went on with the sanitation and the
contracts. I mean now we're paying more for the first six months of the year for the same garbage removal because the contract wasn't either issued or the thing that popped and legs fell apart. I mean that's for me that's poor management. I mean this is not your first rodeo. The second aspect is going
to arbitration for a contract which this body should have come to terms with for a service for a service that the police department performs for this community. I mean, that's that's your job. Instead, we're paying money to have someone
resolve it for us. You're paying attorney fees. That's our money. We're paying for those attorneys for their jobs. So for me that's that's a bit of an issue especially in it. Yes, I am a supporter of the police. You know why? Because they provide a service because they're part of this community.
You know they want to spend 25 years working as part of this community. They're entitled to benefits. You pay for performance but you also pay for a compensation package. And that compensation package is your health, your medical, your benefits, your
retirement benefits. And that's what attracts talent. And that's what retains talent. So to have that to go on for so long, I mean I mean I know there's no love lost between PBA 164 and this council. I mean that's been decades in the works. But you give these people
what they deserve. I'm not saying just just give them everything, but you come to terms with it. I hope the arbitration goes through. I hope something comes out of it because as a member of this community, also a member of the first aid squad where I I I'm an active EMT, I
know the first people that are there any medical emergency are the police. It's not the BLS, it's not the EMTs, it's not the paramedics, it's the police. You know, Timmy falls out of a tree, who's going to be there for him? The police are there first and then the first aid
squad. You know, your neighbor has a heart attack, they're there first. You know, poor grandpa falls in the tub naked, they're there to pick him up. I mean, nobody wants to see grandpa naked, but they're there picking them up and they're doing it with dignity and they're doing it respecting these
individuals. So, for me, like I really hope that this goes through because those people that work for this force, that work for this community, give a service to the community. Some may say it's their job. Yeah, it is their job, but they're providing a service and they
do it extremely well. So that that's my that's all I have. Maybe my comments may be me bitching about it, but take it for what it is. >> Thank you. Just just so you know, on the agenda today, we did go through mediation and there is that we're going to be voting on today. >> Yeah, that's what I understand and I
hope it goes through. Okay. >> And I hope everyone's happy with it and that they get their justice. >> Anybody else? >> Can I speak again? Yeah, I'll try the joke again. I still live in
69 gray and I'm a taxpayer here. Um, I neglected to say and I I respect everything this gentleman and resident had to say. Um I don't know all the uh results of arbitration but if if what
rumor I heard is true everything that this uh governing body proposed uh was basically handed down from arbitration. So there was nothing really gained when it came to the health care program. I don't believe there's
anybody in this room that hasn't seen a significant increase in health care. Myself personally, I'm on Medicare and I have a supplemental plan and I hope by the time everybody reaches the age of Medicare um that they can enjoy the
program um that I'm enjoying or my family is enjoying. Uh, I still got hit on the supplemental side, a 35% increase year-over-year. It's unsustainable. And that's part of my point uh in
recognizing what was handed down from arbitration. I don't think there was a position here that you're going to cut pay or anything like that. The biggest liability and challenge is healthcare. And it's not just unique to this town, but it's the whole country. It'll
bankrupt everything in its path if you just cart blanch accept everything. >> I think I made my point clear. >> Thank you, Mr. Jones. Anybody else? >> Not saying anyone have a motion to close. So moved. >> Who have a second? >> Second.
>> All in favor? >> I. >> All right. We're up to approval of minutes January 6, 2026. Do have motion to approve. So >> move. Have a second. Second. >> Does anybody have any changes? Not seeing any. Roll call. >> Council President Telini.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> All right. We're up to the January 6, 2026 executive me meeting minutes. Do I have a motion to approve?
>> Second. >> Natelli Saliani. Anybody have any changes? >> Not seeing any. Roll call. >> Council President Telini. >> Yes. Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Hignatelli, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Rose, >> yes. >> Councilman Saliani,
>> yes. >> All right, we're up to the appointments of burough professionals. The administration committee went met last week. Uh, and the following recommendations are put forward to the governing body. Affordable housing attorney Giblin and Giano. Labor
attorney C. Alston and Associates. Tax Appeal attorney Porle Legal LLC. Bond Council Rogan McCarthy, Burough Engineer, Boswell, Inc., Water Sewer Engineer, Boswell, Inc., Burough Auditor, Lurch Vincy Bliss, Burough Planner, TNM Associates, Risk Manager,
Otterstead Insurance Agency, Risk Manager, Health Benefits, Aquashure, Burough Prosecutor, Pierce Law LLC, and public defender, Hibinsky Law LLC. Do I have a motion to approve? >> So moved. >> Do I have a second? >> Second.
>> Roll call. Council President Talamini, >> yes. >> Councilman Eert, >> yes. >> Council Potelli, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Rose, >> yes. >> Councilman Saliani, >> yes. >> All right. We have the following uh
committee appointments. Uh the first ones I'm going to be reading are both mayor and council with council. >> [clears throat] >> So, the first one I have for zoning, I have Matt Hellifant alt one for two years running from uh January 20th, 2026 through December 31st, 2027.
For the arts committee, I'm putting [clears throat] forward uh Peter Marcus for one-year term from January 26 through December of 26. Ashley Marseter for one-year term for the arts committee as well, running from January to December of 2026.
For public events, I'm putting forward Kevin Badger for a three-year term from 1226 to 123128. Brian Wizbbiski, one-year member running from January 20th 26 to December 31st, 2026. And Mr. Isabelle Restivo for a
one-year term from January 26th through December 2026 for the public events for all committee. Do I have a motion to approve? >> So moved. >> Second. All in favor? I >> I >> Okay. The following are mayoral appointments. For shade tree, I'm
putting forward a billy, commissioner, five years unexpired, ending in uh 123126. And for the green team, Ashley Marseter for a one-year term expiring 123126. All right, we're moving on to the resolutions.
We'll do this as a consent agenda. Uh, first I'd like to uh pull out 2654 and 2660. The rest we'll do as a consent agenda. We have 2649 award contract for GGPH for affordable housing administrative agent
services. 2650 award contract for integral realy resources for the 2026 tax appeal assistance services. 2651 of board contract to civil service solutions for 2026 tax map maintenance services. 2652 renew NBCUA shared
services hauler agreement. 2653 authorized grant submitt for Bergen Municipal employee benefits fund for 2026 employee wellness program. 265 authorized recreational refunds. 2656 Hire Department of Public Works
seasonal labor Franks. 2657 high seasonal snow plow operator Sambbora. 2658 hire three department hire three departments for the public works laborers. 2659 approved change order for Patriots Way Bridge. And 2661 authorized lease of
Burough property 40 Riverside Drive. Anybody wish to pull any out? Oh, I'm sorry. I forgot one. Uh 2662 temporary budget emergency. This is amending the temporary budget that includes 2662. Mr. Pony out. Nope. Have a motion to
approve. >> I'll move. >> Have a second. >> Second. >> Mr. Saliani. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pnatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes.
>> All right. We're up to 2654. Terminate employee 00845862. Have a motion to approve. >> So move. >> Have a second. >> Second. Second. >> Roll call. >> Council President Talamini.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> I'm saying >> Councilman Pigotelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> All right. We're up to approve memor of memorandum of agreement with the local PBA 2660. Do you have a motion to
approve? >> So moved. Second. >> Saliani. Mr. Pignatelli. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Abstain. >> Councilman Pignatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. All right. We have no ordinances.
We have no workshop session. We have Does anybody have any new business from front of the council? Not seeing any old business. >> All right. We're up to burough council leazison reports. We'll start with Mr. Talamini. Uh, sure.
Uh, this year I have a couple different uh assignments um that that'll change when we have a new member of the council, but um I'm doing the green team right now. Um it's a it's a new group. Um we have a new a new chairperson and u
a number of new members. They're they're very uh excited. It seems like um uh a lot of good things will come out of this and um uh they were just reorganizing and trying to figure out what what things what initiatives they want to do.
So uh the next next meeting I'll probably have more things to to tell you about them, but uh it's looking good for the green team. Um and then the library, hold on. The library has some upcoming programs
for adults, young adults, and children. Children. For the adults, uh we have yoga with Sonia on Tuesday evenings at 6:00, January 27th, February 3rd, 10th, and 24th. Register for each class online
or by or by calling the library. On Thursday, February 5th at 6:30, we're starting off a new program, learn how to play ma ma jang. This event will repeat on February 12th and 19th and is open to anyone who is interested in learning how
to play Maang and become part of a larger gaming community. Registration is required for each session. For children, we have all our regular story time and song programs on Tuesdays, Thursday, and Friday mornings, including a special
toddler dance party this Friday at 11:00 a.m. Register registration [clears throat] is required for the dance party. We'll have a new craft to go which can be picked up at the library anytime in February as well. For young adults, we
have game on Fridays at 3. Kids are invited to play board and card games together. We also have the switch club on Mondays at 3 as well as teen crafts Thursdays at 3. No registration is
required. These are drop in programs. Uh, and just a reminder, there are downloadable e ebooks and audio books, magazines, and more on that that are available to Oakland Public Library card holders for free 24/7. If you want to
learn more about how to access these resources, check the website or come in and they'll be happy to show you how to access them. Uh, that's all I have. Mayor, >> thank you, >> Councilman Pnatelli. >> Yes, Mayor. Thank you. Uh for the senior citizens, um they will be uh providing a
uh movie on uh February the 5th at 1 p.m. We'll be playing the movie Pride and Prejudice and serving fresh popcorn. You can't pass that up. Can't pass it up. No registration is required, just membership uh with the senior center. I
also like to repeat um something I said um at the reorganization meeting or our first meeting this year, and that's about volunteering. Uh, as you heard tonight, um, the first aid squad, uh, and the police department through their service, um, helped to deliver a new
resident to our town. Um, if anyone out there has uh, failed to accomplish their New Year's resolution, here's a great one. Join the Oakland First Aid Squad. Uh, you'll be given training. And um
I've been on the squad for for 10 years now. I've never assisted in delivering a baby, but I have assisted five times in saving someone's life. Uh bringing them back from from not functioning to functioning as a as a resident here. The
sad the the meaningful service that you give to your fellow residents is just extraordinary. And just think, you're going to receive so much training that god forbid every anything ever happened in your house, you'll be the first to respond uh right next to the police
department. But uh please volunteer. Um and the first the fire department is also looking for volunteers. All you have to do is go to Burough Hall and um um get your form or um first aid squad meets the first Monday of every month.
just come down to the first aid squad, meet everybody. I'm sure you'll be uh overwhelmed by the uh participation of so many residents here in town. Please, please, please volunteer. This is what makes our community great and this is what really serves the people of the
town. So, please volunteer. Thank you, Mary. That's it. >> Thank you, Coun. >> Uh report from the Oakland Communications Commission. Uh the first meeting of the Oakland Commission Commission is tomorrow night right here um at 7 p.m. in council chambers. You
can we want to welcome new members Richard Sassin, David Paprio, and Dirk Schwarziger to to the board and also want to thank Terry Serenites, Amy Eer, Andrea Levy for their service. Uh the board is still the group is still looking for more
volunteers. Please email occnew jersey.org. Also, the fundraising group of the Oakland of the Oakland Communications Commission is looking for anyone to assist. So, please reach out to the secretary at the Friends of
Ofc.org. Um, for the on the recreation side, we have um first WCK meeting for recreation will be next Monday at 8:00 at Dandelia building. And um please for any information go to the Oakland website
regarding recreation. Um real quick for DPW, I do want to thank the DPW for their work over the last storm and I know we have a a potential storm coming. Just a quick reminder, um please remember to put your cars where you can get them off the road when it snows to make it easier for everyone during a
storm. It's easier for all parties involved for the police, fire, and everyone who has to deal with this situation when snow's going on. It's very important [clears throat] to get your cars off the road. >> That's all I have. Thank you, Councilwoman Rose. >> Thank you, Mayor. Uh, Shade Tree Committee met on Wednesday, January 7th.
Um, their community forest report plan was updated and recently approved. So, that committee will be accredited again this year, which is a great accomplishment. Um, the adopt a tree program is getting very popular. This year, we'll be planting about 80 trees. In the past, we've only had about 31
that were planted. Um if anybody's interested in in uh you know having a tree in their front yard just reach out to the shade tree committee. Arbor Day event will be held on April 26 from 10 to 2 in the front of the library. The committee will be handling handing out
uh saplings for anyone interested in planting a tree in their yard. Um we still have two open spots for anyone who's interested in volunteering. And the next meeting is Monday, February 2nd at se 7 7 pm. Uh public events met on
Monday, January 12th. Uh the Easter egg hunt will be on Saturday, March 28th. Memorial Day parade will be on Sunday, May 24th. Carnival will be from Wednesday through Saturday, June 17th through the 20th. The
Halloween parade will be on Saturday, October 31st in the morning. The tree and manure lighting will be on Sunday, December 6th. And that next meeting will be on Monday, February 9th um at 7 p.m. Access for all um will be um
attending all those events as well that we've I just mentioned. And our main focus will be on the carnival, which is probably the town's biggest event. And that's it. >> Thank you, Councilman Eer, your first report. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um the environmental commission actually did not have a
meeting this this this month. So there's nothing to report there. Although we do need more members. There's quite a few uh few openings. And the um the arts committee is actually meeting as we speak. So I'll have a report next meeting. >> Thank you. Thanks. >> All right. We're up to bills to be paid.
Uh council. >> Okay. Bills to be paid is 823,749 and one penny. >> So moved. [laughter] Second. >> Second. Councilman Pikatelli. Roll call. >> Council President Salamini.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> Do I have a motion to adjurnn? Some >> move. Have a second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I.
>> All right. Thank you everybody. The next uh burough council meeting will be held Tuesday, February 10th, 2026, 7 p.m. here at the Burough of Oak Municipal Court Chambers. Thank you everybody and have a good night. Meeting a journey.