All right. Is everybody ready? >> We do a lot of stuff. We just can't do that anymore. Just cost too much. >> It's not a um issue of of not willing to do it. Things just cost too much money.
Well, we'll get to it. >> We got to do the pledge of allegiance and then we're going to do that. >> Okay. >> Bill, you ready? Caroline, Steve. >> Yep. >> You ready? Yes, sir.
>> Open up your Thank you. When you ready? >> All right. Meeting called to order. This is the April 14th, 2026 uh mayor council meeting. Uh would the clerk please read the statement of compliance? This meeting is being held in in compliance
with the open public meetings act NJSA 104-6X set. Notice of this meeting was properly provided by posting on the bulletin board in the municipal building and by filing with the burough clerk and by posting on the burough's official website. The meeting will adjourn no
later than 10 p.m. unless extended by the majority vote of the members present. >> All rise for the pledge of allegiance. And the pledge of allegiance is going to be followed by a moment of silence. So I'm just going to ask you to stay standing. >> Council Potelli, would you please lead us in the pledge? >> Thank you.
>> I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all. So, uh, we had a member of the
Oakland family, uh, pass away last week. Um, and he was an employee of the burrow. Uh, he grew up in town. His parents were both teachers in town. And we just want to take a moment before we have a moment of silence. I want to recognize uh, this gentleman, John
Catrino. The Burough of Oakland is deeply saddened to announce the passing of longtime public works employee John Catrino. John was a dedicated employee for 25 years. Starting as a laborer in 2001, he
worked his way up to the position of assistant supervisor. He was a hardworking and devoted employee who always shed light on those around him. John was a friend to everyone and a constant comforting presence to his public works family. The Burrow of Oakville is grateful for the many years
he served our community so diligently and will honor his legacy by lowering the burrow flags to half mass on Thursday, April 16th. We offer our condolences to his family and loved ones. He will truly be missed. May he rest in peace. John Catrino. Now, let's
give a moment of silence. Let's remember Mr. John Katrino. Thank you everybody. >> Would the clerk please call the role? >> Mayor Kala >> here. >> Council President Talamini >> here. >> Councilman Dumbert >> here. >> Councilman Eert
>> here. Councilman Pignatelli >> here. >> Councilwoman Rose here. Councilman Saliani >> here. >> Okay. We have a very special guest with us here today. >> This Adia Palma Romeo. >> We're going to wheel her over.
>> You got to face the audience. And this young lady, I use that loosely, just turned 100 years old on March 28th. Let's wish her a very happy birthday. Okay. >> Thank you. >> So, we have a proclamation that we put
together on behalf of the burrow to recognize this milestone. So I will read it to you. >> I'll come down here. Okay. >> This is the Burough of Oakland mayoral proclamation. Can you hear me? >> Yeah. >> Good. Okay. Honoring Adia Famara Romero
on her 100th birthday. Whereas Miss Romero, a resident of the Burrow of Oakland, will be celebrating her 100th birthday on May March 26 28th, 2026. and whereas she was born on March 28th, 1926
in Atoria, New York to Roberto and Antonio Diodario and has lived a life marked by devotion to her faith, family and community. And whereas Miss Romero share her talents through music, church
involvement, and the community activities while raising six children and later returning to the workforce. and where she maintained an active lifestyle, remained dedicated to helping others and participated in Bible study group for over 57 years.
>> Wow. >> Hope you did that. >> All right. >> Where she continues to inspire those around her through her kindness, strength, and lifelong commitment to service and now resides with her
daughter, Terry Romero. Now therefore it be proclaimed that the mayor and the council of the burough of Oakland do hereby recognize and celebrate Miss Adia Palma Romeo on her occasion of her 100th birthday and to extend a seere congratulations and best
wishes for continued health, happiness and blessings. And be it further proclaimed that the Burough of Oakland honors her extraordinary life and lasting contributions to her family and community. In witness thereof, we have here onto set our hands and caused the
seal of the Burrow of Oakland to affixed on this 14th day, April 2026. Congratulations and happy birthday. Is there anything you like is there anything you'd like to say on behalf of your mom? Give us a little insight. Who mom?
>> Sure. My mom has lived in Oakland for 66 years and that was back when it was really country and it was um a different landscape. Uh we belonged to Pleasureand Pools and it was just such an amazing
park and it was back back then you kind of knew everybody in town like it was a small town that you knew everybody in town. You just knew everybody in town. Everybody knew each other. It wasn't a big place. It was a small place. Very
friendly people and um we just uh we used to burn leaves in the backyard and um nice nice neighbors and it was a great place to grow up. Um real friendly town and we're still happy here. We're still happy to be here.
>> Thank you. And one question for you. What is the secret to living 200? What's the most what what what do you remember? What's the best thing about being 100 years old, if there is any? >> How did you How did you get to be >> How did you get to be 100?
>> Well, I I was very conscientious when it comes to food. >> Food. >> Yeah. I ate very well. >> Okay. >> You know, and that's important. >> What's your favorite food? >> Um protein, you know, like Yeah. Lots of
garlic and olive oil. >> I ate very well. I ate very well. >> I mean, she always told us, "Eat your greens, right? Eat your greens." Leafy >> and breweries >> and brewer cheese. >> There you go. >> So, for breakfast for many years. Okay.
Glad you're all sitting down. Um, this was what she ate for breakfast. She ate a rice cake with peanut butter and then she took raw garlic raw garlic and then she had her own spice mix which was like cumin, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon
and she sprinkled that on top. >> Wow. >> Oh yeah, it was good. >> Was good. >> When she was 80, we all took her into New York for a weekend and we couldn't keep up with her. Like she was walking like ahead of all of her daughters. She
was so fast. Um, she went to the American Woman Gym for over 40 years. >> Yeah. She swam, did her exercise. >> Yeah. >> So, good good eating, exercise, right? And and you know what? I think also 57 years in the Bible study, she's um also
just always been very into community and friendship, right? And she loves her family and her >> children very much. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Well, we're not done yet. We have something else for you. >> Assembly man, would you like to come up? Oh, thank you. This is hot off the press
from Trent and we just came roaring up here for this. So, I wanted to uh stop by and say hello. Congratulate Congratulate you. 102 years old. >> 100 just come back for that, too. All right. >> Yeah, sure. Why not? Right. Listen, I
want to sign up for whatever you're doing. I'm in. You know, sounds great. But we have a little resolution here for you. Celebrating your your hundred years of uh life coming from New York and blessing us here in New Jersey with your presence. We're very very happy about
that. And uh I could read a few lines of it passage if you like and uh >> yeah we go for as much as we want. Here we go. So this is from the state of New Jersey, the Senate and the General Assembly. a joint legislative resolution
by Senator Shapi, the Assemblyman O and Assemblyman Azeriti. Uh whereas the Senate and the General Assembly of the state of New Jersey send warm greetings and salutations to Ada Palma Romero. >> Romeo Romeo
>> Romeo, excuse me. I'm sorry, my eyes are bad. ma'am, a highly esteemed resident of the burrow of Oakland, Burton County, who marked the celebration of 100th birthday on March 28th, 2026.
And whereas born in Atoria, New York to Roberto and Antonio D >> Dario, >> Dario, thank you. Ada Palra Romero. >> Aita Palmer to Dario Romero.
>> Anita Palmer Romero. Anita flourished as a devoted mother, one who enjoyed an admirable profess professional career and eventually returned to the workforce and maintained an active lifestyle for much of her
adulthood. What professional career, Aydah, were you involved in? >> What professional career were you involved in? Mostly just office. >> Office. Oh, okay. Oh, secretary. >> So, you run the you ran the company. That's right. I didn't know exactly how that worked.
>> Um, let's see. So, here we are again. Whereas Adah Palma Romero >> Romeo. Oh, Romeo has shared her many talents through through music. Music is very nice. What kind of instrument do you play in it?
>> She just likes to sing. >> Oh, like to sing. Okay. Beautiful uh many talents, music, community uh involvement and faith. Generously giving of her time and her energies with her Bible studies. Very nice. I love that uh
group with for more than 57 years. and she continues to inspire and uplift those around her with the same kindness and Jolie deer she has she has demonstrated for the
past century and whereas Adah Palma Romeo >> nice >> has been upheld in her long and rich life by a host of family and friends including her six beloved children 62.
Nice. >> Whereas within all the spears, Adah Palma Romeo has established a model worthy of emulation and set a standard of excellence toward which all others may strive. And I am one of those. Uh
whereas she observes this significant milestone, the loved ones of Anna Palma Romeo are especially appreciative of her value and implacable presence in their lives and hold for her
a special place in their hearts. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and the General Assembly of the State of New Jersey that this legislature hereby congratulates Ada Palmer Romero Romeo
uh upon her 100th birthday, pays tribute to her many fine virtues and accomplishments and extends sincere best wishes for healthy and happiness and at least to 102, right? Further, furthermore,
uh be it further resolved that the duly authenticated copy that would be this uh of this resolution be signed by the Senate President and the Assembly Speaker and attested to by the Senate Secretary and Assembly Guard be
transmitted to Ada Palmer Romeo Romeo and that would be here. This is signed by uh Nicholas Guutari. He's the Senate President and it's signed by Craig Coughlin. He's the speaker of the assembly. And Aiden, may I present this to you?
>> Thank you. >> Actually, let me have a few laughs with you. You know, you had six kids. You must have had a great sense of humor, keeping these guys in line. I mean, you did a great job. I can see this is outstanding. So, >> the job was to love them. And I did. I
loved every one of them. >> God bless you for that. That's beautiful. Well, thank you for allowing me to be part of this today. Uh, mayor, thank you so much and the council and everyone. >> So, I'd like to do is bring the entire council up for a picture since they all signed the resolution along with the assemblymen so that we can put this into
our newsletter. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you for you came from. >> Yeah. You see that guy with the camera? He flew right up. >> She used to the camera.
>> Come on in. >> Come over here. >> Yeah. >> Seriously, come over here. >> There you go. I like that. Wait a minute.
>> Okay. Two strong man. Right. There we go. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Beautiful. >> Congratulations for 100 years. >> Thank you very much.
>> Very nice. Thank you very much. >> It was very nice. >> I'm living in town. >> Oh, okay. >> Wow. Very nice. >> Um, we have any Okay.
>> Oh, no. Your name everywhere. >> Oh, you do. >> Shameless self. Let me give you my number, though. Couldn't you get jammed up with anything? Call me right away. We'll help You can have the chair. >> You're welcome. Thank you. Okay, so now we have uh some more
celebrations. Today >> we have the seventh grade boys gold travel base basketball team. time in the spotlight years. >> Thank you very much. All right. This time I would ask Council Town Me to come up. Uh, Re Commissioner
Rotundo to come up, please. >> Oh, who's Steve? I'm sorry. >> Steve. Steve. >> Any up here? You're wreck, right? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Megan, you want to come up as commissioner? >> Sorry about that. Okay. At this time, we
want to honor the seventh grade boys gold travel basketball team who won the NJJBL National Division Champions this season, led by head coach Michael Cardi. Mike, you want to come up? Is Michael here? >> Assistant coach Mark Rubenacon Pick.
The boys finished the season with a 17-2 record capped by a 5945 victory over a strong Midland Park team. Throughout their dominant defensive efforts, a great decision-m this group earned their championship as this team. So, uh before we bring the boys up, you want to just uh talk a little about the season and
and yeah, Mike can go Mike. >> So, big congratulations, big uh accomplishment for these boys and uh when they come up uh actually guys come up. You guys can join us now. It's all about you. So, come on up. >> So, uh, as you can tell by me standing
next to these boys, um, theyight on the court. Yeah, they had some height on the court. Uh, they won this game. They got out to an early lead in the championship game. Um, and then Midland Park came and gave them their best punch. They they really came back after them. And I saw coach Cardi make some
adjustments and some excellent decisions. So before we talk about the boys, I just want to acknowledge the job that coach Cardi, coach Rubener, and coach Piknich did with these boys. You guys led them to not just learning basketball, but the learning character, learning how to handle adversity. Um,
and you saw that on the basketball court because I've seen you guys play before and we'll use the word emotional at times, right? When things don't go our way and then all of a sudden we saw you guys have a ton of growth this year. um to end the game in the fourth quarter uh they put in uh these four boys and then there was another one who is kind of the
tallest one of you guys you are. >> Uh so another one couldn't be here tonight. Some of the boys couldn't be here tonight cuz they got other athletic events. Um but these guys came out there in Midland Park did not know what to do with their size and their aggressiveness. Cole, put your arms out.
So in front of the kid inbound like for me and I was doing the clock. So these boys did a fantastic job. We're very proud of them. and he certainly deserve a round of applause. And I know you want to give certificates. >> Yes, certificates. >> Uh, so Thomas Nelson, Thomas Nelson,
Jason, Cole Rubener. and Braden Vitali. >> Maybe mech. >> Steve, >> did you guys like come back. >> Oh man.
>> Thank you. >> I just want to I just want to say a quick word on behalf of the governing body. Uh and >> you know kids, this is I mean one of the most rewarding things that we we can do as parents is to coach our children. And
I mean I I did it with my children. Council Sally Annie did. Everybody in this room has had children uh and have the ability to coach them. But uh certainly thank you for the parents and also for the athletes. You're number one, not number two or number three. Number one. So don't forget that. We
don't honor number two. >> All right. So once again, congratulations. Job well done. Coaches, athletes, thank you so much. You made you make Oak proud. Thank you. >> Congratulations. Great. Just line up and shake your hands. Everyone's hands.
Thank you so much. Appreciate it. Congratulations. >> Thanks. Thanks. >> Thanks so much. All right. This sound like Mike to come up. >> So, uh, ask Mike to come up. Uh, I'm going to read this this, uh, read this
real quick. On February 1st, the Oakland basketball proudly hosted a charity fundraiser in collaboration with the Oakland Knights of Columbus, Oakland Recreation, Covenant House, and Indian Hills basketball. The purpose of this event was twofold. to raise funds in support of homeless youth and to teach our young athletes the importance of
giving back to our community. I'm happy to share that nearly 100 players participated and they raised they raised $3,150 for this important cause. The event featured free throw shooting contests for winners from each age group
which advanced to compete in a regional level in the Knights of Columbus competition. Grade level winners also receive individual prizes generously donated by Frank's Pizza. Mike, why don't you give us a little overview of this program and the background and how we got here? >> Absolutely. >> Present the check to the Covenant House.
Anybody else you want to bring up here? >> Uh, can I come up with one at a time? >> Absolutely. >> All right. Cuz I'm I got a bunch of people to thank. Okay. >> Uh, so this started actually a couple years ago. This is our second time that we've run this. Um, but this a version of this event. Um, two years ago we ran it just as a free throw shooting contest
through Oakland. um where we try to raise money. We raised a similar amount again for Covenant House. Um it's the genesis of this was a couple of current eighth graders who when they were in sixth grade decided to try this. It was part of their student council uh proposal that they were running on. Um
and they helped us coordinate this and it took off and it's been growing. Um so that's um was it Dean Anthony? >> It was Anthony Kadachi and Kavia, right? Uh so uh we took that and this year we continued it and we extended. Um Roger Schaefer from the Knights of Columbus
reached out to me earlier this year and said uh that they have a free throw shooting competition and he would like Oakland to participate and I said I have a wonderful idea. So we married these two things together. So our players not only did they compete in the Knights of Columbus competition um they also were
able to raise money for this great cause. Uh, so we, like I said, we had about a hundred participants. Um, we had we made it into a big event this year. We hosted at Indian Hills High School and coach Nick Carlo, come on up, Nick. Uh, Coach D. Carlo hosted it for us.
He's the Indian Hills boys basketball coach. He held us uh at their at their facility and um, uh, had the Indian Hills boys basketball team helped run the event. So, it was a big event there. We actually had a DJ, Liam Batusvich, came and, uh, he was our DJ for the
event. So, there was music. It was a great vibe throughout. Um and as a part of that uh process, we had um three players tie for the overall lead and overall winning. Um one of them was Matt Bruno. Matt, come on up.
Matt is eighth grade player and a true sniper from three-point range. Just an excellent shooter and great athlete. Another one, Danica Onessy, who couldn't be here tonight. Um they hit they both hit 13 out of 15 free throws to start and Dory eyes come on up to gets his athleticism from his father.
Uh but truly from hard work both these boys and Danica um this doesn't happen on accident and it's all through hard work. So we're very proud of them. They all went on to compete at the regional level along with all of our other grade winners. I was largely a North Jersey event. Both these boys were the runner up for their age group, too. So, it's
pretty impressive. Real quick, I'd like to call up Roger Roger Shape from the Nights of Columbus. >> Sure. >> I'd like to uh make this presentation to Matt because you had you were the overall winner. You had the most baskets out of anybody uh on that day. So, this
is from the Knights of Columbus. >> Congratulations. So, like I said, they tied and uh we had to have a shoot off and uh in the shoot off, five shots and they kind of went one after another, one after another. Matt hit all five of his shots. So, as the kids say, ice in his veins. They did a great job.
So, uh I do want to acknowledge that, uh Frank's Pizza was nice enough to donate prizes for every grade level, both genders. So, all of our athletes were able to um get a prize out of this, a little gift card for each grade level. However, Matt as the overall winner and Danica on the female side for the uh
overall winner. Matt, tell them what you won. >> Um I won free pizza for a year and two liter 2 liter um >> soda >> every week. Not that. >> So, we're all going to Frank's house. >> That's fine.
Um so uh like I said there's just I want to thank everybody um Mayor Kamala council u Mr. Sani councilman Sani as our leazison and recog commission and Russ I don't want to forget you as we started this you are leazison as a big part of support for this so thank you
guys so much um I want to thank commissioner ratundo organ for all your support through all of this for our rec commission um I want to thank Roger as a part of the nights of Columbus I want to thank coach Darlo and all the Indian hills boys and the athletic director John Duncan for
hosting us and allow us to do a big event there on a Sunday um they brought in all the custodians for that too and um just made it an event that we could continue with. Um I want to thank Carolyn Kadanachi for all of your help um not just running the event that day but being the parent of the the person
who started this whole thing and just really everything you did as a part of this. Um and Brian Larry who's not here but he helped really running things that day. The SAO and Katrina Larson and um all of the Oakland players. As you said, one of the biggest things about this was
teaching our kids the importance of giving back, right? It was a great competition for them. They got to compete. They got to play. But those moments where we get to teach, like there are a lot of programs and a lot of towns that raise money for themselves and it's for, you know, whether it's more sweatshirts or coaches gear, whatever they're doing. In our our team,
our program, we were able to do something for children experiencing homelessness. And that's just, you know, we're teaching the right thing. So it's we're proud of our boys who win. We're proud of our boys who do the right thing and learn and really help others around them. So a round of applause for all
Miss Green. So uh we're lucky enough to have a representative from the Covenant House today. Um and we would like to present you with a check for >> get everybody. This is your giant jacket. Thank you. >> Well, you got to turn around so
everybody can see it. I'll present it this way. >> There you go. >> Oh, perfect. Matt's right in front of >> you. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you so much for >> I just I just want to congratulate I
just Mike Megan everybody all the the knights all the volunteers I can't thank you enough for doing this. It's just ironic. I got a phone call yesterday from one of the county uh what are they calling now? county commissioner and she had reached out to me and she said, "Uh, Mayor Eric,
I'd like to talk to you about volunteerism. You know, there seems to be uh people aren't that engaged anymore and people seem disconnected." And I told her, I said, "You know, in Oakland, you know, our our town runs on volunteerism, our wreck programs, our
committees, our commissions." and and I and now now I could tell her that you know even our youth have stepped up to the table to really give back not to our community but somebody else's community for people less fortunate and and it's it's such a as as coach I said it's such
a a learning lesson to give back and it's very humbling as you get older in life realizing that you can give back to other people so on behalf of the burrow of Oakland governing body you make us so proud in this town and it's so nice to help people that are less fortunate from
our community. So, thank you >> just real quick. Just this is not going to stay just as an Oakland wreck. >> Oh, hang on. >> Hold on, everybody. Hold up. We have >> Sorry. This is not just going to stay as an Oakland wreck program. Um, next year we're actually going to be I'm going to be staying on
>> against my will. um to add this to something that the high school players will be doing as well. So, we're going to be adding in uh the girls and boys basketball teams from Indian Hills as well for next year. >> Awesome. >> So, thank you.
>> The more money we can raise, the better. >> Thank you. >> All right, we're going to take a two-minute recess and then we're going to regroup. You ready? Okay. All right. We're back in session. Uh at this time, we are up to open space
application public hearings. Uh we have a public hearing for grant submitt for the Burton County Historical Preservation Trust Fund historic site survey. I have 26140 and we have 26141 public hearing for Grantsville Middle Burton County Open Space Municipal Park improvements recreation complex dugouts
and batting cages. Mr. Coons, >> thank you, Mayor. Uh, as you said, we have uh two public hearings on for open space grant applications tonight uh as well as the uh authorizing resolutions on both of those. The first one is to the Bergen County Historic Preservation
Trust Fund. Uh the grant request is for $15,000 to support a historic site survey. Um Eric Shamach from the uh Oakland Historical Society is here. Uh I think he'll probably comment during the public hearing perhaps and can answer
any questions that you have. Uh but the upshot of this is uh the last historic site survey the bureau undertook was from 1999. Uh and it needs to be updated uh to include certain additional properties that weren't included the last time around. and also to account
unfortunately for some properties that have since uh been demolished. So the uh price quote we have right now for the full survey cost is $30,000. This is a 50% matching grant. Uh and as you'll see later on on the agenda with the grant
agreement you're being uh uh asked to approve, uh the grant application and uh review and approval process with Bergen County takes a good 9 to 12 months. So, uh, this would be a 2027 project. Uh, and the match funding, uh, could
probably come from either the Open Space Trust or be included in the 2027 operating budget. The second application is to the Bergen County Park improvement program. Uh, and the scope of this project would be to replace the batting cages at fields 25,
five, six, and 8 and install new dugouts on fields 2 and six. Uh Megan Rando from the commission is here and uh she can ask answer any questions you may have that regarding some of the specifics on that. Uh total cost based on the quotes
we've received to date is just shy of 20 $225,000. It's also a 50% matching grant. So we would be asking for about 112,500 or so. Uh this would also likely be a 27 or 28
project. Uh, and the match funding would come from either the 2027 capital budget or uh, also the open space trust fund. And just so you're aware, the current balance in the trust is just shy of 800,000. Uh, although we do have some
likely upcoming commitments to that uh, with the basketball court project and the Van Allen House. >> Thank you. Does anybody from the governing body have any questions for the administrator? No. >> Does anybody have any questions for Mr. Mr. Tando or Mr. Shawback
not seeing any. >> Okay, moving on to >> open >> public. Sorry. Okay. Motion open public hearings. >> So moved. Do >> I have a second? >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Anybody for open to public? We should discuss this.
>> Mr. Shawback. >> Hi, I'm I'm Eric Sha. E R I K S C H A U B A C H and I live at 61 Lyola Place and um I'm also president of the Oakland Historical Society. Um I uh would like
to um encourage you to vote to submit this application. This is a a very important first step in the process of preserving Oakland's history. So pretty much what the historic site survey will do is it will identify buildings and
also um realize what resources that we have um that need to be preserved and also how to preserve them. So um this would be um the survey would identify um buildings that could be put into
uh a historic um preservation um element in the master plan. And that would help prevent demolitions like we had with the uh Demerest Hopper House in September on Breakneck Road. Also, um what a historic
site survey will do is if and when hopefully when uh if we have a historic commission in town, it will help inform the historic commission about how to preserve buildings, how to go about doing that and working with um the
people who own them. Also um one of the interesting things about historic preservation is uh it can also lead to other uh aspects that will help improve the town. So historic preservation is also an important part
of uh also an important consideration in a downtown revitalization plan. So uh I know that the council is interested in that. This would also be a key part of um revitalizing Oakland's commercial district.
And there's just um intangible benefits as well. The uh I I had the great opportunity to um give programs with the Oakland Historical Society on Colonial Day at our elementary schools. So, all
of our fifth graders participated in um two of the schools in the last uh week or so and then one in March in uh doing colonial activities. And I was thinking I was a fifth grader during the
bsentennial and here I am 50 years later giving programs for these kids and these uh kids. I I told them you could someday be historical society's president and be doing the same thing I am. So I think about what kind of Oakland do we want to
have? And I think we would want to preserve what we have for those kids and then their fifth graders as well. So please consider um voting yes on this application. Thank you very much. >> Before you leave, Mr. Shaw, does anybody
from the governing body have any questions for Mr. Shock? >> I I do have a question. Yes. >> Are many of the historical uh sites privately owned? >> Uh many of them are, but not all of them. >> What are the what are the costs or benefits? What are the benefits and what are the potential um drawbacks to this
study to the private homeowners who might have these historical sites? >> Uh doing the study, I don't think there's any drawbacks. Um, of course, I think people would have some questions about how will it affect my my um
property and so on, but this is just a study. This is just a survey and those um those decisions will be made later. So, it all depends on uh how the master plan element, the historic preservation element of the master plan is written.
It all depends upon if the council decides to have a historic commission. The council will write the ordinance yourselves and you'll decide what power that commission would have and what they can do and they what they cannot do, what they can regulate, what they um
cannot regulate. So, it's it's just really a a step in a long journey of preserving um historic sites. And I really like would like to think of this as a community effort. I think um I've
noticed that uh people are interested in the history and I would like the community to come together and and support historic preservation. So I it's just really the first step in a in a in a journey of discussion and and
collaboration and coming to um a vision of what we want Oakland to be. I think so. So, it's not a designation then of a historic site being historic, is it? >> No, that would take uh you'd have to apply for designation on a national register and state registers. That would
require additional paperwork, but it would determine what we have of value as I understand it. Well, my question is because someone a long time ago designated the streamhouse as a historic site, which
>> in my opinion was not historic. Uh the Van Allen House definitely is, but but in my opinion, humble opinion, the stream house wasn't. But we could not touch it because of that designation. And we had to jump through hoops for
years. And I I just hope that doesn't happen with private property owners. >> Well, it would be different with private property owners because uh just because something's on the national or state andor state registers doesn't mean that they can't tear it down. As we know with
what happened with the Demer Hopper House, >> it's an identification and as I understand it, governmental bodies are bound more bound by that than private owners. >> Oh, okay. All right. Thank you. So this is to showcase the historical value that we have in open for those who are
interested and those who want to deeply study and who want to experience it and who want to herald and who want to really celebrate it >> well that but also identifying it in a technical way. So members of the historical society we can we know what
buildings are historic we but we're not we don't have the technical um expertise to really uh do this. That's why there's the need for the grant and and the study. Um, thank you. >> I would love to have that technical expertise, but I would have to study for
about a year or more to get it. But >> so, so Mr. Showback, this is really more nothing more than an inventory at this time. Correct. >> Yes, that's identifying where these historical properties are. >> Yes. >> To be incorporated through master plan as a designation. >> Yes. It's an inventory. That's best way
to describe. Okay. Thank you for the clarity. >> Sure. >> Anybody else? Not seeing go to the motion. Thank you, Mr. Sh. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Anybody else wish a question? >> Oh. Oh, sure. Good. >> So, Eric, you're talking about the Denver House, right?
>> So, what you're going to do, would that prevent a Denver house situation? >> The survey would not. >> Okay. So, this is just a designation thing. >> Yeah. It would just identify. I think what Matt was alluding to was now you're going to tell somebody at on Rampo
Valley Road that their house is or component of it is considered historic. Now there are in real estate situation pros and cons to it. >> Yes, of course. >> So my question is because Rich says this ain't going to go down until 2027. >> Yeah. >> So what happened at Deerris which was
done properly through the building department and was approved. >> Yes. Even with what you're going to do, you're not going to prevent the demerous. >> The survey would not do that, >> right? It's just to designate it. It's just to identify it. Yeah. So, I mean,
we could tell it's older. You can go ask um what's her face cuz she was around so long. She'll tell you, >> but you know what I'm saying. >> Yeah. I mean, we know it. Why do we need to spend the money? What's our benefit? I'm not against it. I like the idea. Yeah. But you got to be strong as not to
know what's an old house and what's not. Do you know what I mean? >> Yeah. >> Why spend all this money? I think you should take it to the next level level. It's nice to know, okay, this building's this or that. I'd rather go through the the tough thing and to put up a moniker or whatever or a sign that this is
historic George Washington, whoever was hanging out here. You know what I mean? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So, why spend that money? What's the benefit that you know, you drive around, you could tell what house is old or not. >> Yeah. Well, yeah. >> I would rather see that money to go to
something that you don't have that incident on Demerest or that Demerest house. >> I mean, isn't that the endg game? >> That's right. It is. >> All right. So, is this part of the process to get to that? >> This is part of >> Demerest never happens again. >> Yes. >> All right. That's the way the only way
you can do it because if um if we're if to prevent the situation with the Demerest Hopper House that there would have to be a historic preservation element in the master plan and in order to incorporate that there are legal um
implications. You would have to have professionals really evaluate and do that. So give us a round number like is it going to cost us 20 grand each house to have it designated or is it five grand or we get a quantity discount if we do like 50 houses if if I can what
we're talking about is a is a survey >> as a means of identifying it is not a means of designating any property as being historic meaning it's not the same as seeking um um inclusion on the state or national registers >> that's not this at all
>> but what's the end Do we need this to go on to do this historic register? Do we want it? Do you know what I mean? >> The first step doing the survey would identify potential properties that could be taken further to be put on the National Register. The initial surveys
did identify a neighborhood in Oakland that could potentially be a historic district. >> No, I'm good with it. I just, you know, >> to me by, you know, drive around, I can tell you which ones are old. Well, so could I any of us, you don't have to be an expert for that. Just
>> where are we going? We're going to spend 30 grand. >> You know what what's the next step? >> That's the first step. >> The problem I have is if we're going to make it historic designation, the homeowner might freak out, knock it down because they don't want it because some
people have different perceptions of it being a plus or minus. You know what I mean? How how is the historic society or the burrow of Oakland protected? I mean, we can't get involved in in private ownership rights, but at the same time,
what happens if by doing this now these people start to knock them down or refurbish them and things like that? >> My my primary concern in raising that question, Mr. result was the infringement on homeowner rights and and what this could do and whether this would restrict a
homeowner's rights to improve uh expand or demolish and and rebuild and replace. >> I mean, yeah, we don't have a whole contiguous neighborhood like in Cape May and other areas throughout Jersey where, you know, it's very restrictive and inclusive. >> Have other towns What are some other
towns that have done things like this? Pmpton Lakes, uh, Mawa. I've actually visited the historic commission meetings in Pontton Lakes, Mawa, Whiteoff, and Rididgewood, but there's others. Closter has one. Um,
there quite a few actually and uh they have done historic site surveys. They also have historic commissions and those are the the commission meetings that I visited. Uh so but again if you have a historic commission that's that's separate that's
not what we're discussing tonight but um the survey would be basically seeing what you have and then once you you see it you have professionals evaluate it then they would recommend how to go forward with it so you decide other other things. >> Yeah.
>> So walk me through the process. Let's say you go down 202 >> and uh let's just go to the enterprise building. >> Yeah. >> The old wigwamp. What's the process that takes place? >> Well, again, I haven't done one of these. I'm just kind of conjecturing, but that
building um was built by your ancestor and it had historic character and it was uh included in the 198283 survey and but however it was modified
sometime shortly after that and its historic features were taken off. So the question is would that be a eligible building or not? I don't know. This is what why we need to have professionals do a survey. They could
evaluate that and say no, it's too far gone. It's not worth um fixing. Or you could do this, this, and this to try to restore it back to its original look. Um but again, as the president of the historical society, I I'm limited in my
ability to acknowledge. I mean, I know the history of the building, but but it would just depend on um what recommendations would would be given and then what everyone decides to how to proceed with it. So, >> I wish I could have more specific
answers, but this is really just the first step of inventorying and identifying as you said. So, >> anybody else have any further questions? >> Is it possible that this would open up any funding from a historical perspective? >> Yes, that's the beauty of it. So it if
you identify historic buildings in this more rel relatively more formal process rather than just hey that's an old building there this would be more systematic and then you had you would evaluate the criteria um that
would then you'd have criteria that if the building fits the criteria then you could be eligible to uh apply for grants and funding. So it it does open up some opportunities, but again, you know, these are later steps, but
>> So this creates a tool that the town could possibly use in the future. >> Yes, exactly. >> Yes. A tool for planning and a tool for um getting grants and funding and uh and other other such um activities. So
>> we're fortunate enough to have Mr. Russo, real estate expert in >> present. What what does this what does this do to a homeowner's value? If they're designated a historic site, does that do anything to the >> I had a deal in Waldwick where it was a negative impact?
>> Would you stand up, please? >> I'm sorry. >> Come up here and talk. >> I had a deal in Wald put you on the spot. >> It had somewhat of a negative impact on it. >> Um it does limit them on what they can do. Um >> is it it's like a a pool like some
people want a pool, some people don't want a pool. >> Yeah. Yeah. Some people love that spot. I mean, listen, I'm just worried that if we do this, you come up with the survey and then they're going to dismantle it and then you don't even have a shot at it. And the only
reason why I'm asking Eric, I love the idea, but I didn't know, you know, where are we going? What's the endgame? You know, if you want to know what the buildings are old, we can drive around. It's easy to see. But to answer your question, it's on a case- by case business uh situation because what what
are they going to do? Like I don't know, we don't have enough like off the by the golf station that the house. All right, let's use that. All right, let's say we're going to knock down the golf and the house next to it. We're going to put I'll say a dirty word, affordable. You
guys won't mouth. Let's We're going to put a multi-unit in. All right. A multiun >> single family house. What's that? >> Multi family single family. >> We're going to make a mansion over there. There you go. >> All right. So, maybe we can't do it because of the the historic aspect on
it. >> All right. That's where it would be, I think, a negative, you know, and then there's other situations that I've seen where they take it like I was working on the Barbara Mansion in in Patterson and they have a historic society there. We
just we have people sleeping in there. They don't have place to stay. So it stay warm. They started a fire anyway. Burnt half the place. But in order to sell that, we have to maintain the exterior integrity. What you do inside obviously you want to upgrade all the
HVAC, the bathrooms and stuff like that. So it's on a casebyase basis. I think it was if it was part of an assemblage, which you know, I'm just using the golf station off the top of my head because I think everybody recognized that building. >> Where's the golf station?
Is it in golf? >> BP BP. All right. I'm showing my age. It's a guy that wanted to do a car wash. Where we start the Memorial Day parade that corner >> just don't want you confusing people. >> All right. So, where we start at the bottom of Dogwood >> on the corner of Dogware. So, let's just
say somebody wanted to develop that. If the historic situation was on there, you probably couldn't. So, that's where I it would hurt. Does this designate to my understanding in this dialogue is this designation does not put any restrictions. It's simply identifying
the buildings and their age. >> Yeah, this this is a survey identifying the buildings and their history and what features still remain. The designations um and restrictions would be from the council and the planning board essentially. So, so it's up to you.
>> Any any further questions? >> I have a question. Um, William Sydney, 12 crest, uh, to talk about these historic buildings. There was a mention a couple of months ago when you made some talk about it. Um, a
100-y old building. Now, I had a house in Monontlair. Every house in Montlair isund and change years old. So, the whole town's historic. What defines an historic building in a town like Oakland besides driving around? Yeah, that one's old. That's an old one. but old like 1926,
not you know 1876. So how do you define an historic building in a town like Oakland? >> Well, I I think it would be the um Secretary of the Interior has standards. So it's not just something that's old.
So take for example the Van Allen House that has several different criteria that make it worthy of the National Register. One is it's associated with a national figure in national history. I >> agree the vanilla house would qualify and then the fox home on upper 202 there
that guy has been around forever that house >> because of the architecture early stone architecture the stone houses in Burton. >> Someone built a house in Oakland in 1927 and it's still surviving an old cape or something. Would that be historic?
>> It would depend. So >> has to do with any kind of historic >> history like the history of the house also goes into play. It usually just can't be old. There has to be some historical significance house to be historic. >> Yeah. It has to be usually some kind of tie
>> eventually my house and >> yeah my house too eventually become a you know >> to be to be able to register usually has to have some kind of historical significance to the town. >> Okay. And also I might add somewhere in the library when I first moved to town when 287 opened they had a whole shelf
of 287 documents with Indian locations and they did a historical evaluation of all the properties around whatever the requirements were for 287 like that one house that's the dentist office there um
right before you get on two 287 north that house was deemed kind of a start but they said since there's so much alterations done to it. Doesn't make a difference. They got a couple things in the roof, but that's about it. Um, I guess the wig one would be the same. You know, it was an older building, but it's
been tin canned up. It's modified. It just looked like any other building now. So, >> all right. I was wondering about that. >> Thank you. >> Further discussions, any questions? Sh. >> Not saying anything. >> Can I just respond to that on that said? Okay.
>> So, basically, yes. If something's just old, it doesn't necessarily qualify. So, architectural features, like I said, the historic um figure, um certain kind of construction, which is unique. Um so,
not everything that's old would be would be eligible. So, but that's what the survey is is intended to do. Sift things out, sift out the things that would not apply and really identify those that need attention. So, thank you. Thanks.
Anybody else wish to ask a question? >> How you doing? Dave Richardson, 320 Rample Valley Road. >> Uh, just a couple things. I'm just wondering why they're not putting out the flower pots. >> Hang on. What? This is public hearing. >> This is not This is not open to public yet. >> This still is.
>> Oh, this is Oh, is this still I'm sorry. >> I thought it was today open. >> No, you got to wait. My hearing is not that good. So, it's okay. >> Anybody other any questions concerning this comment? >> Designate. You know there's any attorney in this
building that could be >> I have a motion to close. >> So move second. All in favor? >> All right. We have in front of us resolution 26140 authorized grants middle Burton County Historical Preservation Trust Fund. Do I have a motion to approve?
>> So moved, Mr. There you go. Do I have a second? >> I'm sorry. Second. Second. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dumpert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli.
>> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> Okay. We're up to 26141. Authorized Grants Middle for Bur County Open Space for improvements to recreation complex. Have a motion open to public. >> So moved.
>> Second. >> Second. Okay. All in favor? Hi. >> Hi. >> Anybody have any questions about 26141 for improvements to the rec complex? >> Mr. Um Oh, 21 Alabama trail >> and also you're the rec commissioner.
>> Yes, rec commissioner. Right. So, this is basically to replace some of the batting cages um because um and the softball dogouts. Um some of the batting cages need to be improved because they're older. Um one of them is completely shut down because of safety. It's like not usable at all. Um so, this
would enable um us to do some of the uh safety upgrades that we need to do right now. Add impact absorbent padding. Um replace the weathered netting now um and add um one on field six where there's nothing. it's going to be uh sort of flexible that we can remove it in the
off season. So in the fall it wouldn't be there at all. Um and essentially it would u extend the useful life of all the cages because usage would be spaced out. Um and then regarding the dugouts for field two and field six, I don't know who's familiar with it, but it's essentially right now just dirt and
benches. Um so we would look to basically do what we have on field three and field 9, which is a concrete slab and overhang. Um so there would be a little uh less upkeep for DPW. The overhang provides shade protection um from the elements,
protection from you know flying balls, the sun um you know rain. Um the last time we did that was for field 9 and you remember and field three in 2016 which I was researching to try to do that. prices are not the same
>> um as then but uh same company I you know we did all the research but it's essentially the same concept if you can see what we have on field 9 and field three it's the same idea be a little smaller because field uh uh field two is like a smaller space but uh same concept
>> does anybody have any questions for Mr. we're talking about. >> Sorry. Would that would that be the last uh field that needs uh dugouts or >> No, field seven, right? Field seven. >> Yeah, >> four is like tight, but there it's like a lot smaller. We're doing uh replacing
the uh benches in field one right now because they're probably were there when when I was playing, >> which is old. Um but there the overhang is there. the the so we're trying to do like little by little what we can but field four is not field seven is not but
two and six are like the big ones it's just like straight up drive now yeah >> yeah it's time >> it's yeah it's time and it would be in line it would look similar would try to pick the same color so like if you're looking at if you're driving down you know and then equality between baseball
and softball >> would the construction uh disrupt the wreck schedule or any of the >> we would have to do it we would do it like in the off season we talked to the guy about doing it um you know it would also be out of the way so it would be if we did in the fall um you know they
don't have it their fall ball they play away so it wouldn't affect um base uh softball and baseball and the cages they could just not you know they could do that anytime they just would not be able to use those cages that would be fine >> anybody else
not seeing any thank you Mr. Anyone from the public wish to comment? Not seeing anybody. Do I have a motion to close? >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> All right. You have before you 26141 authorized grants middle for Burton
County Open Space Municipal Park Improvement Recreation Complex. Do I have a motion to approve? >> So moved. >> Mr. Saliani, do I have a second? >> Second. Second. Who's had the second? Bill. Bill. Okay. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. Coach your
kids. Yes. >> Councilman Dumpbert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Eyeert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> And Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> Okay. At this time, we are up to public comment. I have a motion to open the
public. >> I'll second. >> Who had second? >> Mayor. Oh, skip. >> Oh, I skipped the mayor's report. I'm sorry. >> You really want it? >> I'm already on the other page. >> Talk too much. >> All right. All right, for the mayor's report, I have a couple items. Uh, first
of all, uh, there is a public hearing on August 24th, the case management followup for affordable housing. Uh, I'm sorry, April 24th. Uh, I just want to defer to my attorney briefly so you can explain to the residents exactly what that means and what we're dealing with.
>> Thank you, mayor. During the uh ongoing negotiations in um line with the fourth round obligations for affordable housing, um the judge has requested that all parties come in to just discuss the progress that's been made so far in these negotiations. Um as the mayor
said, it will be open to the public for the most part unless there's any any times at which the the judge sees fit to bring the parties in separately. But >> um it would just be a matter of discussing the um the different lawsuits which are which are are taking place
right now and the um you know the potential to keep the uh builder's remedy lawsuits from from affecting the town >> and at this time we don't know whether it's going to be done virtually or it's going to be in person. Correct. We don't have the the time yet. Correct. >> That's correct. >> Or how it's going to be done. Okay. And how when do we expect to find that out
so we can notify the public? >> Um I I would say within a week before. So we're getting any day now they would the judge would be able to would probably tell us the judge's chambers. >> Okay. Very good. Once we get that information, we'll certainly share that with the public for all those residents in which to attend.
>> Thank you. Uh also tomorrow concerning affordable housing, we have a meeting tomorrow at 11:00 with New Jersey D to discuss water allocation in regards to the uh sewage plants and for the Roper property. So that's taking
place tomorrow at 11:00. Uh, we have a baseball softball parade on May 2nd, 9:00 a.m. Uh, we have uh I have some good news from the Arbor Day Foundation. We I received a letter says, "Dear Mayor Eric Kamala, on behalf of the Arbor Day Foundation, we celebrate the 50th
anniversary of Tree City USA program. I'm happy to extend my warmest congratulations to Oakland on receiving a 2025 Tree City USA recognition. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to your community's unwavering commitment to planting planting trees,
taking care, and the celebration of trees. In an era where cities and towns are facing increased challenges related to air quality, public health, and climate resilience, nurturing urban forest has never been more important. By pri by pri prioritizing
tree stewardship, you have not only helped enhance Oakland's livability, but you've also invested in a healthier, more sustainable future for your residents. The Arbor Day Foundation Tree City USA has a long legacy of supporting the na national nationwide of a passionate organizations and tireless
tree planters. Since 1976, we've recognized thousands of communities of all sizes have created and maintained green spaces. While we all work in different corners of the country, we are working in unison to create a positive change through trees. To be named the Tree City USA is part of being something
bigger. So once again, congratulations on a stand outst standing achievement and thank you for your dedication to Oakland's tree canopy. We believe the cities take care of their trees, take care of their people. So I want to just congratulate the the shade tree commission uh for all the fine work they've done and as you know we've got
an arborist that uh we work on a part-time basis and and Oakland's really uh pretty serious about our trees, especially here right at the foot of the rim of P Mountain. So thank you for the hard work. Um what else do I have here? Um, one other, we have two other
announcements. Uh, there is a town park cleanup on Saturday, April 25th, 9:00 a.m. Meet at the Danny D building. Uh, bring sturdy shoes, pants, and gloves, garbage, and you'll be provided garbage bags, and pickup tools. I've done this several years. It's really rewarding to go around cleaning up the community.
It's just a really nice program. And I just have a question for Mr. Coons. I already know the answer, but I think it's important that our public understand. Mr. Coons, would you please uh give the governing body and the residents an update on where we are with the uh Pompton Lakes garbage colle? >> Uh sure. Uh so there Lakes DPW has been
in touch with our DPW uh and they're starting the route planning process and route familiarization process. Pompton Lakes has uh gone through the contracting process for renting the vehicles and ordering the new vehicles and the dumpsters. uh and they also have
a uh job ad out for the staff that they will need to provide the service. So that hiring process will be uh you know ongoing through May. >> Thank you. Also, uh Mr. Kun, I've received a couple questions from residents and they're wondering if they
can use the recycling center at this time. >> Unfortunately, no. Uh program starts and the contract begins to be middle of the year. Uh so once you know we get past July 4th uh that'll be open and available and uh we'll have uh more
details coming uh coming out on how you actually access that um you know that a little bit to flesh out there. So and we will again be having a general uh mailer be you know going out to everybody explaining this in some more detail. >> Thank you. >> All right that concludes my report. Now
we're open to public comment. I have a motion to open to public. >> So moved. Do >> I have a second? Second. All favor. Mr. Richardson. >> Again, Dave Richardson, 320 Rampa Valley Road. Just a couple things. Um, I started to say about they used to put
the nice planters along 202 out here. They don't do that program anymore. >> Mr. Coons, wasn't it the benefactor wasn't providing the flowers? >> Uh, yeah. Yeah, those flowers were always donated. >> So, I don't think they did it last year either. I don't recall. >> I No, I don't think we did.
>> No. So, I mean, it always looks nice along the island right across from the park. You know, it's a nice setting and everything. So, yeah, I like to see it back there again. >> Okay. >> All right. Um, one other thing, I've talked to the traffic officer in Oakland about
this cuz I I cut through River Road and around the Recfield all the time, right? Well, that stop sign coming from the rep field, >> you know, from the trestle to Spring A where it makes it, nobody stops there. I almost got hit again today head on.
People come around that corner, they don't even slow down. I I suggest, how about putting a speed bump there? Slow these people down. Somebody's going to get hurt there one day. You know, I how many times I told Frank Fiori about it and he says, "Well, it's an illegal stop sign."
But what's a stop sign there then for if it's not legal? >> Mr. K, can you >> put a put a sign up there with a flashing halo on it or put up there uh full stop like they do at the bottom of Franklin and 202 there? You know, you can't make the right turn on the on the
red unless you stop and then go full stop. Why don't they do this to here? I mean, it's dangerous there because it's a blind turn. There's a car. There's a house on a corner there that parks his cars right there by the stop sign and you can't see anybody coming until you're halfway through those that turn
and then here comes somebody whipping around a corner blowing the stop sign. It's going to happen someday. You know Murphy's law. Mr. Coz, can you uh discuss this with the police chief? >> Yeah. 30 minute note. >> Okay. >> One other thing. >> When's the contractor going to pave McCoy Road?
>> Oh, so what what we're waiting on is um uh we are we've been in contact with them. They're they're waiting. The last thing I heard because keep me honest was when we spoke to them. They're waiting for the high school break so they can do that road, but I can follow up. But it's it's imminent because they had to let the trench settle for 6 months. All
that's ready to go. It's just a matter of getting paid. >> Great. >> But we are on top of them. >> Beautiful. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> That's horrible. I go >> Good evening, Chaparuso 392 Rampo Valley Road. >> I'm going to come up twice because you
have the hat lady rule of three minutes. I'm just coming here as a resident and then after Danny I'll come up with public. >> Thank you. >> Um you know I am on the shade tree and I saw that email and I congratulate them. I'm only a newer member and that's great and we're known for our trees
>> and it's a perfect segue for where I want to lead to. You know we tried to attempt to to make the downtown and the Veterans Park look better lighting it up for the holiday season. >> But you guys got to look at it like Picassa. You got a blank canvas. She got these beautiful trees around Veteran
Park. We got that split rail fence. I know that there's an electric issue, but it's April. I'm not No one's here in November, December. >> But if we can get some electric down there in DPW, can we invest in some new lights? We could do the split rails, we
could light up all the trees. >> All right. Um, and I know from being at Shade Tree, they got trees coming. I know we cut some trees down or whatever along the walkway there, but I really look, you look at John up at 161 uh 116
Chickasaw. What a beautiful place. People travel from all over. Well, while they're here, why can't they come downtown? I mean, we're we're a Tree City USA for what, the 20some year. Let's let's show off our trees. Let's light them up. I know it's electric that we need to get there. I understand
there's an expense, all right, but it's a long-term investment to make the kids happy. You could get the kids involved. You could have them uh come up with different um you know, decorations or things that we could have for years. They could do a competition. You know,
at a meeting last night, somebody was talking about in their town during co they give them sheets of plywood and the kids cut out all different shapes, snowman or whatever, and they've been using them for years. We could do that, you know. I mean what we do it's almost
like you know uh Charlie Brown Christmas the way it looks in relationship with the number of the trees. I know we attempted to improve it this year but you know that was kind of >> that was not an improvement. >> It wasn't an improvement. So what I'm saying is we have the ability. We have
the canvas. Let's work with it. All right. We know now it's April. Let's get some electric in there. Let's let's do that. Light it up. nice. Let's make it an attraction like it should be. It's the center of our town, you know. So, I said as a resident, I'm going to leave
and I'll be back for the public events. Danny De 7 Road, also a member of the Open Fire Department. One question. This year is the 25th anniversary of 911. I'm wondering last couple years since I guess four years ago I picked up doing
our ceremony at the firehouse for the 25th anniversary. I was wondering if the town was planning on any kind of event if not because you let me know because I start now to schedule for September. Uh
Dan, I I think that obviously this is the 25th anniversary and being a member of the department, I understand how important it is to us in the fire service and the police service and certainly I agree with your assessment. Uh why don't we have a meeting uh next week and with myself the administrator
and the public events leaison and let's have that conversation. I think it's important that we recognize the 25th anniversary >> in a proper way. Uh the fire department has always been that stop gap by putting that >> presentation together at the firehouse,
but but really this is a this is a century, >> right? >> Mayor, if if I may too, this is something where we haven't settled on any sort of uh idea for what that ceremony would look like. So again, I think the meeting is timely, but it is something that we'd identified. even
though it's not related to the 250th celebration, it's something that did come up sort of in that venue as we were talking about celebrations and events. Uh, and I know the DPW has some ideas for what they'd like to do in the park to honor the 25th as well. So, I think the timing on this is is good to sit
down and have the conversation >> because for the 20th for the 20th anniversary, the town did something down in Vets Park. >> Well, that and that was tied to the dedication of the mine, >> right? But then it was said right after that that the town was going to pick it up every year. The next year nothing was
done and it was a bunch of people that were mad between the police department and fire department. That's why we picked it up. I picked it up at the firehouse. >> So, all right. >> So, Danny, I I'll reach out to you. It won't be this week, but it'll be next week. >> But, uh let's get together and let's uh
let's come up with some ideas and put this together >> because I don't just it don't take me a month. Takes me like three months to get the food and all that when I do at the bar house. Okay. >> All right. Thanks. Thanks, D. >> Thank you, Danny. >> Chaparuso, 392 Ramp Valley Road.
>> Yeah, Oakland Public Events. Uh, thank you to all the team members. Oakland Public Events. We got the best crew we've ever had. They did a fabulous job for uh the Easter egg hunt. But there again, we need electric. Um, all the times we have our events over there, we have we have two significant ones. We
have our Easter egg hunt and then we have the Halloween. We need electric. Danny's been good trying to get us the generator with the lights. I mean, you know, you don't really need the lights at 10:00 in the morning, but we like we need to use the the electric. We're
there often enough. I just asked that we could put some electric there. All right. Which will tie into the previous guy that was talking about electric. So, we got that all in the pack. >> So, I on the Easter egg hunt, I was I was looking at that. I went into the library to to see. So, there's the
stairwell on the on the corner there where I mean, in my like if if you ran, you know, four circuits. Uh uh that would be plenty for for what we need. It's just a matter of getting the power there. And I and I I think it would be
something we could run along the building on the outside rather than on the inside because that's that's the you know that's it's it's the stairwell makes it difficult but then the rest of that is it's it's a finished room. It's not something >> maybe you get tired with the Christmas
lights things from the guy that was here before. >> Yeah. So >> so so we definitely look at that but uh but but yeah if if we had permanent power there it would make everything so so much easier. You at one point we had a coffee pot plugged in and the the breaker had tripped on the generator and
so the coffee pot was cold, you know. >> Yeah. So, >> tell me since you're an electrician, you want to head that up? >> I Well, sure. I I'll to talk to whoever. All right. All right. Um, >> Memorial Day parade is shaping up well. Um, as you know, we're not really a town
that does the 4th of July. So, our kind of Fourth of July or our celebration of our country is Memorial Day. Uh looks like big attendance. Maine put it together. It's got like seven bands coming and we have some outside uh other groups coming. So it should be and it's
always the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. Um we start the set up at 12 and we start promptly at 1:00 p.m. Okay. The council members as always and maim got some more horses. So I'll be at the end with the show.
That's my cake. Listen, they upgraded me with a bucket with wheels somehow. Um, our biggest fundraiser for Oakland Public Events is the carnival. The carnival is what pays for a Halloween
um the Christmas tree manora lighting along with the new holiday stroll. I didn't say crawl and the Easter egg hunt and a Memorial Day parade. And this year it will be the uh Wednesday through Saturday before Father's Day, which is June 17th to the 20th. It's going to be
$40 a night for unlimited each and every night. You will have an opportunity up until that Wednesday evening to to buy it at the discount. All right. It's all with the kiosk. It's all, you know, um with the credit cards. All right. Um we
are going to be his only venue this year, so we're probably going to get a couple more rides than usual. All right. So, um, and then one other thing I want to just reach out to everybody with all the different nonprofits, you know, like people that are involved in the different nonprofits, it changes, but no
one tells us but the emails. So, I'm just reaching out to everybody who traditionally has a tent there that cooks the food. If members have changed, just reach out to us at the Oakland Public Events so we can update it. All right, that's it. I didn't hit for three
minutes today. Anybody else from the public? >> Not seeing anybody have a motion to close. >> So move. >> Have a second. >> Second. >> Second, Mr. Saliani. >> All right, we're up to approval. >> Favor. >> All in favor? >> I up to approval of minutes March 24th,
2026. I know they've been distributed. I've had a chance to review them. Uh, do I have a motion to approve? >> Motion, >> Mr. Saliani. Second. >> Second, Mr. Eert. >> All in favor? Uh I any changes? Okay, we're good. All right, we're up to March
24th, 2026 executive session minutes. As you know, if anybody has any changes, they can only be done in executive session. Uh at this point, does anybody have any changes or comment changes on the executive session? >> I have to abstain for both the minutes and the executive session. >> All right. So, we'll do a roll call on
24th. >> Okay. We do a roll call >> on the minutes first. >> Yep. For the minutes for 24th. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dumpert. >> Yes. Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli, >> abstain. >> Councilwoman Rose, >> yes.
>> Councilman Saliani, >> yes. >> Okay, we're up to March 24 executive. Any changes? Not seeing any. Do I have a motion to approve? >> So moved. >> Mr. Sal, do I have a second? >> Second. >> Second. All right, roll call. >> Council President Talamini, >> yes.
>> Councilman Dumpert, >> yes. >> Councilman Eert, >> yes. >> Councilman Pigmanelli, >> Councilwoman Rose, >> yes. Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> All right. We're up to special announcements and appointments. Uh we have authorized raffle license RL1597 for the Valley Middle School PTO on May
30th for a tricky tray in support of the Valley Middle School PTO at 71 Oak Street. We also have authorized raffle license RL1598 for the Valley Middle School PTO on May 30th for a 50/50 in support of the Valley Middle School PTO.
And we have authorized raffle license RL1599 for the Ramipo Bergen Animal Refuge on September 30th, 2026 for raffle in support of maintaining shelter expenses, medical care, food, and supplies at two shelter lane in Oakland, New Jersey. Do we have a motion to
approve? >> So move. >> Mr. Do we have a second? >> Second. >> Second. Miss Rose. >> Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dumpert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli. Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> I have an appointment for the Oakland Sustainable Green Team. I will. It's a mayoral appointment. I will be appointing Cheryl Kirkland. >> Kurland. >> Kurland. K R L N D. Congratulations, Cheryl. All right. We have the following
resolution. We'll do this as a consent agenda unless somebody wants it pulled out. We have 26134 resolution authorizing discharge of tax lean 22-000041. 26135 resolution authorizing discharge of tax lean 20-000064
26136 resolution authorizing recreation refunds 26137 resolution authorizing code enforcement refund 26138 amend contract with planner for affordable housing planning services 26139 authorize and hire substitute bus
driver for the senior center and 26142 2 resolution authorizing grant agreement between Bergen County Park improvements program for the basketball courts. Does anybody wish to pull any out? >> Yes, mayor. Item number 142. >> 142. Very good. Anybody else?
>> Did you reference 138 or did I miss it? >> Yes, I did. >> Okay. >> That's for the planner. All right. >> No. >> With the exception of 26142, do I have a motion to approve? >> I'll move. >> Mr. Talami, do I have a second? >> Second. >> Second. Mr. Dumpert. Roll call.
>> Council President Telamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dumpert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pigmatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> Okay. Mr. Pigotelli. 26142 resolution to
grant Bird County Basketball Courts. >> Yes. Uh I'm I'm sure the council remembers when this came up the last time for a vote by the council. I voted no. I'm still not in favor of spending $50,000 for two basketball courts on the other side of town when we have
basketballs courts at the rec field. I think that's where um people are going to go. I don't think they're going to go on the other end of town to two basketball courts to play. I just don't think it's a wise way. It's a good way of spending tax dollar. I know we're
getting a grant for it, a partial grant, but uh even if it's a grant, I I don't think it's a wise way of spending our money. I would vote no. That's just my opinion. >> Thanks. Appreciate you bringing that up. But technically, Oakland Recre doesn't have any basketball courts. The
basketball courts are all based on the schools. So, Oakland Recreation doesn't have their own basketball courts. Just so you're >> I stand corrected, but there are two two other basketball courts at the rec field >> near the rec field, >> but not open to the public. just don't think it's a good way of spending our money.
>> Uh but this was a member if I remember correctly, Mr. K, this was a recommendation from the uh uh Oakland rec commission. Correct. >> Uh yeah, this was their funding request last year. >> Okay. Any further discussion? Not seeing any.
>> Is is there a concern about D approvals? >> That's That's all done. >> All done. Yeah. Approved. >> Mhm. >> Thank you. Well, it it's well, >> you know, we haven't had to apply for a permit, >> right? So, we haven't had to apply or secure a a D permit. It's our
understanding from looking at the site uh and reviewing this and the environmental constraints with our engineer uh that the site that was depicted on the grant application uh is, you know, outside of any uh repairarian
zone, environmental constraint, uh it's impervious surface. It was it was selected because of the fact that there would not be any environmental impacts to it. >> Correct. >> Thank you, >> Mr. Chris. If I remember correctly, wasn't there existing ashalt there as well? >> Yeah, there's like concrete up there.
>> There's a py surface. >> Okay. Any further discussion? >> Okay. Do I have a motion to approve uh 26142? >> Uh so moved, >> Mr. Saliani, do we have a second? >> Second,
>> Talamini. Roll call. Council President Talamini. >> Uh, yes. >> Councilman Dumpert, >> I agree with Councilman Pnatelli and I'll vote no. >> Councilman Eert. >> Uh, no. >> Councilman Pignatelli, >> no.
>> Councilwoman Rose, >> yes. >> Councilman Saliani, >> yes. >> Mayor, we have a tie. You'll have to break the tie. >> Okay. Uh based upon the fact that this was a request that came from the rec commission, I am going to support I'm going to vote in favor of supporting the
basketball court. >> Thank you. >> All right, we're up to ordinance final adoption of 26 code 988, an ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits to establish cap
bank pursuant to NJSA 404 colon 4-45.14. This was introduced at the last meeting. Uh this is now open for uh public comment. Mr. Cruz, you want to just uh give everybody just a quick review on this? >> Uh sure. This is part of the budget adoption process. What the uh cap bank
ordinance does is it it authorizes additional spending authority of 1.5%. Uh so you go up from the 2% uh appropriation cap that was set uh up to an allowable 3.5%. uh anything that is not spent this year,
I do not believe that we're I don't have the exact amount off the top of my head that we're actually going up to this year anymore. Um but that spending authority gets reserved for uh either the subsequent uh two budget cycles. >> Thank you. Uh do I have a motion open to
public? >> So second do a second. All in favor? >> Anybody from the public public wish to discuss 26 code 988 cap bank? Not seeing anybody. Do I have a motion to close? I move.
>> Second, Mr. Pnatelli. Do I have a motion to adopt 26 code 9988, an ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits to establish a capback pursuant to NJSA4A 4-45.14? >> Mr. Talamini, do a second.
>> Just a second. Second, Mr. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dumpert. Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes.
>> Okay. We're up to work session amend road opening ordinance. Mr. Coons. >> Uh yeah. So we last sub substant substantively uh revi did I get that right? That was close enough. Okay. Good. Um revised our
road opening code back in 2024. It hadn't been updated for a very long time prior to that. Um and and since then, as you know, PSCG has been in town. They were operating on a permit that was granted before
uh that road opening code was amended. So, they were operating under the old set of rules and been taking them a long period of time. So, we wanted to go back through the ordinance and make sure that going forward uh that there were some provisions in there uh that would
tighten up that time frame where you know a utility company or somebody else couldn't just sort of have an open permit in in perpetuity. Uh and what we found was actually two conflicting versions that were adopted in the in the code because we had sort of taken
several different ordinances when we were looking at revising ours and uh sort of you know placing it together taking what we thought was the best of each. But there there wound up being a conflicting provision. So one of the changes we'd like to make here uh would eliminate one of those provisions that
states states a permit expires within 30 days. There's already another existing provision in the code uh that states that work has to start within three months and be completed in 60 days and that uh gets a a possible 60-day uh
extension upon review by the engineer. We think that that's that that's a reasonable provision there. Um, and the other thing that we'd like to do, um, is there's been some issues with the amount of advanced notice we get on some of these, uh, you know, road closures that
we have to affectuate. Uh, that's not really fair to the residents or the motoring public, uh, or to the PD as they're trying to schedule officers to to cover this work, too. >> Um, so what we had adopted uh, has a 24 uh, like a one day 24-hour notice
provision. We'd like to extend that to at least 3 days uh to get to provide that proper notice uh for for business reasons. So um those are the you know changes we'd like to move ahead with at the next meeting. >> Okay. >> I have a question.
>> So before before it was they had 30 days. Now we're going to give them 60 days to finish closing the road. >> No, I said both provisions are currently in the code that we had amended in 2024. The the issue really came to light when
PS&G has been working for, you know, well over a year on a permit they acquired, you know, probably 18 20 months ago. >> Expiration of the permit, >> right? How how long do you have to start the work and do the work?
>> How about how about finish? Do we have anything in here about finished paving? Uh the language in what we adopted basically says the trenches are supposed to go through one freeze thaw cycle uh to ensure proper compaction before final repaving.
>> So if they if if the trench is dug during the summer >> supposed to wait >> what >> they're supposed to wait until after >> until the next free frost >> until after the winter until the spring. Yeah. >> I think that's too much. >> Okay.
>> Personally I just I mean they that means they could have six, seven months that the road be >> Yeah. And and we we had some extensive discussion on on that very point. Um and there's proper trench repair and there's proper trench repair, right? Uh it's
something we can always make sure that they come back and they try to keep that trench in good repair. They have to pave it, right? But you have to give sufficient time for it to settle too because you don't want them to repave it, turn it back over to us, and then there's a problem, you know, 6 months or a year down the line. But on that point,
they could they could uh tamp it and and shorter lifts and and it wouldn't be a problem. I mean, there there are mechanical machines that will tamp it so that you can pave. I mean, sure, if you just back fill, of course, it's going to settle.
>> Yeah, I'm I'm sure. >> But if you have to do it in in a certain amount of lifts, it will it will come back. >> Is it But is so is is this based on, you know, uh proper road maintenance. Yeah. You know, like this time time frame the the
>> Yeah. I mean, that was that was based after, you know, we sought the opinion of the burough engineer uh and they considered it and and what would be >> Well, I'd like to talk to the burough engineer to see why they can't do it in shorter lifts, compact it with a compactor and and and pave. I mean,
because people are complaining to me that the the roads are are remain open for a long period of time before they go back and pave it. I also feel like if you don't do it properly the right the first time, you're just going back and redoing it. So I feel like if this is the proper steps to do it, then this is what we
should do. I >> I can certainly attest to the fact that remember when they did the trench work on YPO and as you went to the upper part, the whole trench settled after several months >> and it was just and now we're stuck with this this trench in the road instead of having a decent paving job that's going
to last for >> But did they compact it with a mechanical compactor? >> I'm not an engineer so I can't answer that question. >> Well, that's what I'm saying. They should they should I don't one foot lifts with a mechanical >> I don't know how often for this sort of utility work that's advisable if you're
talking about proximity to water manes or gas manes I don't know how much you want to be vibrating right over that it's an engineering question it's a question that I >> could could we get the engineer to come to the meeting and maybe explain explain
the process >> I think this is one of the the the most pressing issues that people face dayto day is driving through the neighborhoods and rattling their teeth out, losing fillings because of the way the road conditions are. So hearing from the engineer, I think at least would satisfy some questions that I >> and I think the material they use to
back fill with would would uh would be better than just organic material. I mean, I don't know if they're back filling with with sand that compacts easily or they're they're back filling with the virgin soil that was there when they dug it up. >> Why don't we just table this? Mr. Cons,
could you get the engineer here? None of us are engineers. >> No, I'll have I'll have him come what we're talking about. Mr. Maybe Mr. Ekim can provide some insight on that. >> All right. Uh, does anybody have any new business? >> Old business. >> Uh, most old business just uh do we have
any news on uh uh consolidating the voting polls? >> No. >> No, >> not not at the moment. But I was actually because we're getting ready now, you know, we had a special election. Now we have our primary. So between the primary and the general
would be the time to get together with them and go see the one site we're considering that would allow us to move out of one school or to see if they would allow us to move out of both schools to use that site. >> Okay. Because I know there was some uh there was something moving in the
assembly, I think, that they were talking about being able to vote anywhere in town, right? you know, if you live in Oakland, you could vote at any poll, >> right? >> You know, similar to how I vote in Woff every year on early voting, >> right? >> So, um, if, uh, if we could just figure
that out because to get the I think it's important that we get the voting out of the school, >> the goal would be to have it done for next primary, >> you know, which would be a year from now because it takes time. We have to get it approved and then we have to notice all the voters so they know where to go.
>> As long as we get it out, I don't care. Okay. >> Just just uh I think uh I think we we just need to stay on top of that. >> Yep. >> Any other old business? >> I guess it could be considered old business. I wanted to thank some of the residents of of Page Drive nearest Grove Street. Uh they walked me through some
of their concerns firsthand uh with the development behind their neighborhood. Um seeing it through their perspective brought it to light for me. uh I had a a good appreciation of the of the encroachment on their properties, but walking those property lines with them, walking the sand pits with them and
hearing their concerns uh drove home for me uh the disruption that would be caused by any development there. So, I just wanted to thank those residents for the time that they took with me. >> Anybody else? >> Nope. Nope. >> Sorry. >> I'll talk to I'll talk to you tomorrow
morning. >> All right. All right. We're up to council liaison reports. Uh let's start with Mr. Talami. >> Uh so just I I just want to start I I just want to say thank you. Thank you. Thank you to the burough administrator and uh the burough clerk Wendy and and
Rich for for all your help while uh I was the acting mayor for for a couple weeks. Um you you kept me in line and made sure I I I did what I had to do. Um but then >> your street renamed. >> Uh and then I I I really want to say uh
thank thank you to uh the mayor um being doing his job for for for almost three weeks. Um I I realized how much how much he does. Uh people were requesting me to to do things and meet them and and and
go to go to go to things during the day um all hours of the the the night and and because they got that attention from from the mayor um and uh I I'm not uh available as as much as the mayor is and
u the fact that he puts all that time in um is really um greatly appreciated by me and um I just just answering his his phone and his emails for for 3 weeks, I
I realize how much he does and and and most of it he brings on himself because he makes himself available. Um I I wouldn't be able to make myself as available as he does. And >> so I'll run for mayor >> and I won't and um uh but really I want
to say thank you to to the mayor for everything he does. Thank Thank you. And Russ, I'm glad you didn't rename the place. >> They tried. >> He spelled it wrong. >> Alaminville. >> Alaminville. >> Um and then uh that's all I have for today. Thank you. >> Thank you, Russ. Uh Councilman Picnell.
>> Yes. Thank you, Mayor. Uh from the senior citizens, um April the 16th, it's going to be bingo at 1 p.m. No registration is needed. April 27th, Oakland Memorial Caregivers Support Group on the 4th Monday of each month at
5:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. The group will be facilitated by the Alzheimer's Association and is open to caregivers of those affected by the conditions or diseases of the brain. This program is open to the broader
community. On May 11th, it's going to be a casino trip to Wind Creek Casino. Cost is $15 for Oakland residents, $20 for non-residents. Additional info available at the senior center. Limited space is available. Advanced
registration is required uh in the senior center office by May the 6th. And if you want to call for further information, 2011 405 7731.
And uh I just want to say to the uh Mr. John Katrino's family how saddened we are that that he passed away. Uh he definitely was a valuable asset to the burrow. I've seen him many times
throughout town. Um and we're we're all saddened by his his departure. So God bless the family. Um, the other thing is I'd be remiss if I didn't mention again one more time, volunteer for the first aid squad. We need volunteers. Um,
again, um, this is such a valued um, service. Um, you know, responding to infants in distress, um, adults in distress, senior citizens in distress. It's such a a great way to
give back to the community. Uh first aid squad meets the first Monday of every month at the building on Rimpo Valley Road. Thank you, Mayor. Thank Councilman Dumper. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. And uh thank you, Councilman Talamini, for the the
assignments. I spent the last month uh uh learning from a lot of the people uh in these roles that I intersect with. The municipal alliance um is is designed to protect all age groups um of people thought to be at risk with potential drug abuse problems. and they work
through the schools, the senior citizen center and organizations like churches and and the police department again to keep people in at risk um uh categories from engaging in in and and getting addicted to to drug uh to drugs. Um much
of that is privately funded. The burrow contributes uh annually to its uh to its budget, but there one of the key programs that the municipal alliance funds is project graduation um for both high schools, Ramapo and Indian Hills,
and it's designed to keep uh children off the roads and in a safe place. Um there's a massive delta between what they receive from the burrow and what it costs to facilitate that between bus transportation and vendors. um anywhere from 35 to $40,000 per school and a lot
of that is privately fundraised and I just want to raise awareness throughout the bureau that that is a fundraising effort. So if you see uh coming home from schools or through other endeavors uh fundraising for the municipal alliance and for project graduation uh that's exactly what that's for. Um I
think it's worth our time and attention uh to keep any of our youth or really anybody in our community from from falling victim to to drug abuse. Um, transitioning to DPW, I want to thank uh, the bureau administrator Kun and the DPW Superintendent uh, March Chile uh,
for sh for for giving me such an in-depth uh, intro to the DPW operations. Uh, I now know uh, definitively why Oakland has the best roads throughout the winter. Um, it's uh, it's a lot of preparation. That's a lot of planning and and real sincere dedication by the DPW personnel and
echoing uh Councilman Pignatelli's uh heartfelt condolences to the family of of of uh the the team member that was lost. It's a it's a deep loss and uh anything that that I can do uh that my family can do or that we can do as a counselor as a burrow um uh we'll look
to support that family uh for the dedication to the burrow over over several decades. So, thank you, Mr. Mayor. That's all. Thank you. Uh, Councilman Saliani. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Real quick quick reminder, the 2026 Junior Police Academy, there's some
spots left. The Junior Police Academy goes from Friday, July 17th, 2026 to Friday, July 24th, 2026. If you are interested, please reach out to jpa oakland police. Um, real quick update from the fire
department. Um, I want to echo Councilman Pignatelli's um, conversation. The VA the fire department is always looking for volunteers. So, please, if you're interested in joining the fire department, um, every Monday night at the OPO fire station, they're running drills. They'll be more than happy to, uh, let you in, walk around,
and they'll show you what it takes to be a to be a, um, fireman in the town of Oakland. on the OC. Um, another group, Oakland Communications Commission, they need some volunteers for several of their committees. The television bulletin
board, newsletter, welcome website, social media. If you're interested in volunteering with with the OC, please fill out volunteer interest form by emailing OCCland-J.org. The TV committee has received lots of positive feedbacks regarding the recent
council and planning board meetings in making presentations information available to the public. We want to thank everyone who's watching on TV and their appreciation for their showing for the work that's been done to the OC. However, we found many public are not aware of where we can access and view
contents on the on their own if not provided a direct link. For traditional information, Oakland t for traditional information consumers, Oakland TV can be watched on cable channel 77 if you have Altis and channel 2145 if you have Verizon. If you want to watch live
programming on the go, you can watch Oakland TV on the free mobile app, both Android and Apple devices. Just search Oakland television in Google Play or Apple Store and you can find the Oakland TV Leaf logo. We have streaming apps available for Roku, Apple TV, Amazon
Fire devices, and again just search Oakland television. We also have a YouTube channel that that has a library of vast and several playlists of content over 650 subscribers and search at Oakland Burrow on YouTube TV.
Um, I also want to pass my um, condolences to the Centrino family. Um, and then also to the DPW for losing losing one of their friends. So, I want to make sure um, you know, we can do everything we can do to support you in that. And I do have one last update. I
apologize. Um, Oakland Recreation. So, recreation is running a volleyball clinic for girls fifth through 8th grade. It runs over six weeks. It's held on Wednesday evenings. Uh, it's led by a professional volleyball coach with many years of experience. Signups are open for a few more weeks. If you're interested in joining the volleyball
program, please don't miss out. The first session is May 13th. You can go to the Oakland Town website or just and Oakland recreation.com and you can get you can sign up. Also, I want to uh reiterate what the mayor started the meeting with. On Saturday, May 2nd, 9:00
a.m. is the Oakland baseball softball parade. Please come join it. I just want to I'll use u former former commissioner Dan Lagato who say it's the greatest day in Oakland every year. So I'll give him credit for that line. So please uh join us on May 2nd at 9:00 a.m. and the rain
date will be May 16th. That's all I have. Mayor, >> thank you council. >> Thank you, mayor. Uh the Shade Tree Committee has met on Monday, April 6th. Um, as you had mentioned before, the Oakland has received a 2025 Tree City USA
recognition for the from Arbor Day Foundation. Uh, this is a well-deserved recognition to a testament to the community's unwavering commitment to the planting, care, and celebration of trees. This comes just in time for the Shade Trees Arbor Day event, which is on
Sunday, April 26 from 10 to 2 at the Oakland Public Library. And to tell you a little bit about their program and they do have an adopt a tree program which has become very popular. There are actually a total of 95 trees planned for the adopt a tree program. Last year
there are only 30 trees that were um adopted and there was a waiting list. Any remaining trees will be planted on former flood buyout properties where the houses were demolished. Um, so they do and they also do have um two spots open
for volunteers. Um, and as you can see, it's a great committee to be on. Um, public events met yesterday on Monday, April 13th. Uh, the Easter egg hunt, although cold, was a great event and lots of attendance. Um, the next events will be their Memorial Day parade, which
is Sunday, May 24th. The carnival will be Wednesday through Saturday, June 17th through the 20th. Access for all will be participating on Saturday, June 20th from 2 to 4. It's a very well attended last year and we look forward to another successful year this year. And that's
it. >> Thank you. Can you just uh just put a little color into exactly remind the residents of what Access for All is all about and why it's so important to us. >> So Access for All is um designed for those with special needs. Um so when we
do events there is no music or loud noises for them no you know lights or anything else so for their sensories and stuff like that. Um you know it is a good event and we do you know I think we got like 200 people.
>> Yeah last year was very well attended. So for people with special it's free it's free and it's free. It's really an opportunity for people with special needs to come down to the carnival and and you know >> go on the rides at their own pace. So, thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Anything else,
>> Councilman Oliver? >> Thank you, Mayor. Um I just want to say real quick, Councilman Talamini, you did a great job filling in for mayor. Um >> and and especially hosting the Easter egg hunt. That that was a I mean, it was a great time. It was it was a really good event and it was really fun to be a
part of. Um, mayor, you touched on it earlier. The environmental commission is having their annual cleanup Saturday, April 25th. Um, they meet at the Danny D building in the rec field at 9:00 a.m. to sign up. Um, they'll give you supplies. They'll give you gloves, garbage bags, and then they're going to
depending on how many people we get. They're going to try and hit as many parks as we can. They're I know when they want to do Great Oak, they want to do Stewart's Woods, and possibly Pod Ash Lake. And then when that's all done, they are going to have refreshments back at the Danny D building, you know, sandwiches and and refreshments and
stuff like that. >> And that's all I have. Thank you. >> Before I move forward, >> sir. >> Sir, do you still want to speak? >> I'll speak to >> I want to talk to Mr. Dumper. >> Oh, okay. I was going to offer to open public session. Give you your three minutes. That's fine. All right. >> I would support that.
>> All right. Motion to open for the public session. >> Second. >> Move. Second. >> All in favor? >> I want sir. Go for >> Yeah. Mr. Dumper, I heard you speak on U Paige Drive. >> Yes. >> And you spoke to the residents the end of Paige Drive. >> I did.
>> Yes. In this town, there's about 27 different variations of what they're going to do down there. And uh I was want one is a permanent entrance into the new development. Is that true? We discussed that earlier today. I
believe that is that is one of the things that is being considered by a developer. Uh, I don't think there's been any final decisions made on that >> because I live three houses right by All right. Paige Drive is the walker paradise. Bikes, kids, dogs, no
sidewalks. And people fly down there now 40, 45, 50 miles an hour. And I think the council should really think hard about letting that developer open page drive. Might as well. Can I get your name, please?
>> Pat Ryan, 100 Walnut Street. >> Thank you, sir. >> Pat, I agree with you. I live on Page Drive. I know where you live. >> That that that is that is front page, top of the fold for us. That's a very compelling issue that we're talking about, and I don't think there's anybody here that supports it. >> Yeah. >> Thank you.
>> Can I just ask a question? >> Sure. You want So, public >> Donna Stalmer, 38 Oak Street. The 11:00 meeting tomorrow, the D, is that open to the public? >> I'm not sure it is, Mr. Crow. Is it? No, it's not. It's not. >> It is not. Okay. Thank you.
>> Anybody else? >> Motion close. >> Motion closed. So moved. >> All in favor? >> I. >> All right. Up to bills to be paid. >> Bills to be paid is 1,251,16629. So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion?
Not seeing any. Roll call. >> Council President Talamini. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dumpbert. Yes. >> Councilman Eert. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pignatelli. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Rose. >> Yes. >> Councilman Saliani. >> Yes. >> All right. Do I have a motion to
adjurnn? So moved. Do I have a second? >> Was a second? >> Was that Steve who did the first? >> Sure. >> I couldn't hear. Sorry. >> All in favor? >> All right. Thank you everybody. And the next council burough council meeting
will be held on Tuesday, April 28th, 2026, 7:00 p.m. right here at the council chambers. Meeting is adjourned. Thank you everybody.