Dear Lord, bless thy servants in the Ministry of Public Affairs who serve you in this chamber. Give us quiet minds and hearts that we may hear your voice. Help us to know when to speak, when to be silent. Give us strength to oppose the wrong and
uphold the right. And grant that we have a good conscience and soul at peace with thee and with one another. Amen. Amen. Roll call. Council President? Council President? Roll call? Yes, please.
Councilman Azzaroli? Present. Councilman DePalma? Here. Councilman Desai? Here. Councilman Merwin? Present. Councilman Pascale? Here. Councilman Rizzoli? Here. Councilman Van Steen? >> Here. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella? Here. And Council
President Sohar? Here. This meeting is held in conformance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Notice has been given to the official newspapers of the Township on January 8th, 2026 and has been posted in public places. Next open public meeting of the Township Council will be held on Tuesday, May
5th, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Okay, thank you very much and welcome to the meeting. Uh this evening we're going to start out with proclamations, presentations, uh auxiliary officers James Duran and Peter Cartwright retirement and years of
service and recognition. Good evening. Something's going on with the mics tonight. Okay. Okay. This one don't shut off so easily. Thank you, uh Councilwoman Sohar. Um
and thank you for having us here tonight. This is a This is an honor for me to be able to recognize two auxiliary officers, uh Peter Cartwright and James Duran, um for their service here within the
Township of Old Bridge. Um These individuals demonstrated extraordinary dedication to our Township through decades of volunteer service as auxiliary police officers. Auxiliary Sergeant Peter Cartwright
began volunteering on November 17th, 1994. For more than 31 years, he he has given his time and commitment to supporting our police department and serving our community with professionalism and pride. Auxiliary Sergeant James Duran became a
volunteer auxiliary police officer on July 1st, 2000. Over the past 26 years, he too has shown unwavering dedication to help ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.
Volunteer service of this dedication is truly remarkable. It reflects not only a deep sense of duty, but also a lasting commitment to community that deserves our highest respect and gratitude. On behalf of the Township, I'd like to
thank both of you for your years of service, your sacrifice, and your continued dedication. Your contributions have made a meaningful and lasting impact on this community. Um One thing about the auxiliary guys, uh
they're pretty remarkable and amazing guys and girls. Uh years ago when I was a sergeant uh in patrol I remember I remember coming in one night uh it was below zero, freezing out, and I got my
police truck and I was trying to warm up, and I see two auxiliary guys pull in front of me and they were loading their car, and this was a Saturday night or Friday night um and I said to myself, I said, "Wow, these guys are dedicated." That's
pretty remarkable. And later on that evening uh we were busy, and I had a uh we had a pretty bad accident on Route 9, and I was pulled up to the accident by myself and I was out there directing traffic, and
uh there was these two auxiliary guys pulled up. And they they asked me, "Sergeant, can we help?" I said, "Absolutely. I appreciate you guys being here." And they I told them to go down the road, and and they were out there for a couple hours in the freezing cold weather
helping me and helping our guys direct traffic. So, that's what they do. Um and that's all volunteer. So, they're pretty special, and I like to give them and these officers in the back a round of applause for WHAT THEY DO. >> [applause] [applause] [applause]
>> I'D LIKE TO UH HAVE UH OFFICER DURAN COME DOWN. Um Sergeant Courtright, I believe is not feeling well. I think he's in the hospital. So, um I want to wish him all the best, and hopefully he recovers,
but uh James Duran can come down. I think you and Sergeant Courtright used to ride together. Every I think he I think he was 766 766. [applause] Friday Friday nights you guys used to come in and and help us out, and
it was really nice to see you guys, and um I uh I appreciate everything that you've done over the years for the police department. Um this uh plaque that we're going to present to James Duran, uh the Woodbridge Police Department would like
to extend our sincere appreciation for your distinguished service throughout the past 26 years as an auxiliary police officer with the Township of Woodbridge. Your commitment to our community is greatly appreciated. Thank you very much. Thank you so much. >> [applause] >> I'm going to make sure we get this to
Sergeant Courtright. I'll make sure he gets Sure. >> [applause] >> Ladies and gentlemen of the Town Council, I thank you for this opportunity. >> [clears throat] >> I can't believe that 25 years have passed since I first started with the auxiliary.
Why do Why do we do it? Why do these people come out and do it as auxiliary officers? We don't get paid. Unlike the five volunteer firemen, we don't get a pension. We don't even get a uniform allowance. We do it because we want to give something back to the community. And I feel that
all the officers who are now auxiliary do give something back to the community every time they go out. >> [clears throat] >> When I was working I was working with the auxiliary, but when I was working when I had a a real job
um I used to give orders. I was an officer in the army. Um I was on the board of trustees at Dominican College and Abbott House up in New York State. I was a president of the board of trustees at Habitat for Humanity of Monmouth County.
Uh I took groups of volunteers, 10 to 20 people at a time, down to the state of Mississippi after Katrina to help rebuild uh the hurricane damage down there. So, I've been in the position where I've
been giving orders quite a bit, and then I became an auxiliary officer, and I had to learn how to take orders. And it was a very humbling experience to me. Um I wish I had another 25 years I could give to the auxiliary officers.
>> [applause] >> I want to thank a couple of people who are instrumental in my doing this. To Aaron Mediconis in the back, who's the liaison between the police department and the auxiliary officers. Aaron probably knows more about what
happens with the police department than any than with the auxiliary than any other officer in the department. And I thank him for all his valuable assistance in over the years. I want to especially thank Captain Balder uh because I know he was instrumental in
bringing this about. Uh I want to thank Deputy Chief Peterson who has been an excellent leader and who does a lot of things behind the scenes that people don't see and don't realize. But I know what you've done, Ron, and I
appreciate it. Uh So, anyhow, Pete is not here tonight. Pete had a medical problem and he was looking forward to this event, but unfortunately he couldn't make it. Uh I want to especially thank him because he was my partner for most of
the 25 years I've been on the force. And to Nancy, the love of my life, I want to say thank you. >> [applause] >> For the many nights that we got called out on emergencies and Township emergencies and storms she never complained about it, and she
never said to you, "Leave me alone." So, I appreciate it, and I want her to know that. And I thank you for this honor, and uh to the auxiliary my to all the auxiliary officers be safe out there, watch out for each other, and don't do anything to ever disrespect the uniform. Thank you.
>> [applause] [applause] >> I want to thank the auxiliary police officers, James and Pete and all our auxiliaries. I love seeing them around town. I'm really going to miss uh Pete. I know I've known quite a few years. As you know, my husband was a volunteer fireman, so I I got to know a lot of the people. And I remember one time Pete
came up to me, and he said, um cuz I'd always say, "Hi, Pete. How you doing?" It meant so much to him that I knew his name. So, I made sure I always went out of my way to say, "Hi, Pete." So, volunteers are the backbone of our town, and that's what our town was built on, volunteers. So, I just want to thank you all so much, and thank mostly James and
Pete for all their years of service. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Mayor. Okay, very well deserved. We're so appreciative for all that's that they do for us, the volunteers, without a doubt. And now we'll have an introduction of a
new police officer. It's another uh proud moment for me. Uh introducing to you Vincent Marzullo one of our new officers. Uh I think I believe he's number five this year, Anna. And over the past few years as chief of
police uh we've hired 22 police officers. >> [applause] >> And it wasn't easy, uh especially in today's day and age, and I have to thank the mayor and Anna for their help uh
and what they've done for to the police for the police department. Um but I'm super excited about uh Vincent. He uh when I first sat down with him, I knew right away he's going to fit in well here. Um
So, and I'm proud to be able to offer him a job and watch his career and and I hope he uh has all the success, and I wish him all the best. Um With that being said, I'll read a small bio short
bio. Uh Vincent Marzullo began his law enforcement career with the Woodbridge Township Police Department when he was sworn in on April 21st, 2026. Prior to joining the police department Vincent served as a Class 2 special law enforcement officer with the Seaside
Heights Police Department. He attended the Ocean County Police Academy for his training. Vincent holds an associate's associate's of science degree in business administration from the Brookdale Community College. Please join me in welcoming Vincent Marzullo to the Woodbridge Township Police Department.
>> [applause] >> Congratulations again. >> [applause] >> I think he'll be our first one. Yeah, go ahead. You're going to be the first one we're using. Yeah, thank you Chief Montagna and all the captains, lieutenants, sergeants
for taking a chance on me and giving this opportunity to me. It really means a lot to be able to pursue a profession like this at a very reputable department and get that opportunity. So, I just want to thank you guys. Thank you to my family for always being there for
me and can't wait to get started. THANK YOU. >> [applause] >> I WANT TO WELCOME VINCENT TO OUR POLICE DEPARTMENT. I was very impressed with him when I interviewed him. He's a a great young man. He has one problem though, he's a Devils fan. I'm a Rangers fan, but we hired we hired him anyway.
>> [laughter] [laughter] >> Okay, thank you very much Chief and thank you everyone for coming tonight. Congratulations to the new officer and as the Chief said 22 officers. That's that's amazing. So, thank you so much.
Okay, next is public hearing H1 performance guarantee release 2020 real estate LLC - JBS property block 1029 I'm sorry 10259
lots 1.11 and 3 OB PB application number 45 - 2021 P. Good evening Mrs. Shapiro. Good evening Council. Thank you for
having us both here tonight. The first application on for tonight's bonds hearing is an application by a developer for 2020 real estate LLC. We commonly know it as warehouse building number six Jake Brown
Road South located at 55 Jake Brown Road. We're here tonight for the bond release. I just want to make sure that the council is aware that environmental resolution Inc. was our inspectors on the project. Chuck Potts is our inspector who is out on site almost
daily and reporting back to either myself or Rakesh Darji PE with environmental resolution. The project consisted of the construction of one single just shy of 500,000 square foot warehouse building.
It also included site lighting, landscaping, storm water management facilities, 226 parking spaces, 11 EV parking spaces and 105 loading spaces. The total performance guarantee for the project
was 129,777.50 and a safety stabilization bonds in the amount of 5,097 and 0. Just so Council is aware the entire bond in its entirety was posted in cash
under two separate checks as listed in the memorandum in front of Council or in the peak agenda software. So, the total for the release is 134,874.15 and we have no problems. The
applicant and developer had built all the improvements all the bonded improvements to the satisfaction of our inspector and the engineering department. We just asked that a 15% maintenance bond be posted for the
buffer landscaping improvements and that all outstanding escrows be be paid as well. And with that said, I'm here with the applicant's attorney and I'm also here in the audience
with Kyle McKenna from Bowler Engineers. They were the ones that had prepared the plan specs and estimates for the developer along with Brendan Meade. He is the project manager for the construction of the site should there be any detailed questions. They are also
available to answer, but I'm here with the applicant's attorney representing 2020 real estate LLC. Good evening Council. Thank you for having us. Like Mrs. Shapiro said, my name is Ben Weissburg attorney for the developer here from Giordano
Halleran & Ciesla. We agreed to the conditions as outlined by Mrs. Shapiro and a representative of the developer is here as well as the developer's engineer for any questions and I can field any questions as well. Thank you so much. Okay, thank you very much. All right, I'm going to
ask for a motion to open to the public. Move it. Second. Okay, second. Okay, we're now open to the public on this H1. Is anyone from the public wish to come up and be heard or have a question on this?
Okay, seeing no hands and I will close the public portion and go to Council. I need a motion to close public. Okay, thank you. Now I'll go to Council. Anyone on my left for a question for for the gentleman?
Anyone on my right? Okay, seeing no hands I'll ask for a motion. Move it. Second by Roll call. Councilman Astatoli? >> Yes. Councilman DePalma? Yes. Councilman Desai? Yes. Councilman Merwin?
Mr. Pandi uh Engineers. Affirmative, yes. Councilman Paskitti? Yes. Councilman Rizzoli? Yes. Councilman Von Stetton? Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellai? >> Yes. Council President Sohar? >> Yes. Motion carries. Thank you very
much. Okay, you good? Okay, next. Okay, next is going to be H2 performance guarantee release Seg May Old Bridge GC
LLC - Glenwood block 9000 lots 29 30 41.12 42.11 and 42.13 OB PB application number 42 - 2021
P. Good evening again. Thank you Council President. This this application and commonly we refer to it in the engineering department as the Glenwood Country Club site familiar to Council.
This is for the construction of four warehouse buildings totaling almost 1.5 million square feet known as buildings number two through five. Those access to those buildings are located off of Fairway Lane right off of New Jersey
State Highway Route 9 and also from White Oak Lane. The construction included not only the building itself, circulation driveways, 722 parking stalls, 35 EV stations, 218 loading docks, site lighting, landscaping and on this one in
particular there was a sound wall so that the adjacent residential use is sort of mitigated from noise. And then also some storm water management facilities. The performance guarantee for the project was calculated in accordance
with the MLUL as was the application prior to this one. Total amount was 459,390. A certified check was issued number 1247 for the total amount and we ask again um I did caucus you know with our
inspector. Everything was built according to plans that was bonded and we just asked that the developer pay a 15% maintenance guarantee in the amount of 55,920 for the buffer landscape improvements
and then also any outstanding professional escrow charges associated with the projects, but we have no problems with the release of the performance guarantee. Okay, with this? >> Yes, okay, we we agree to the conditions of that one. Oh, yes. Benjamin Weissberg from the
firm of Giordano, Halleran, and Ciesla here today on behalf of the developer. Okay, thank you. All right, I need a motion to open it to the public. >> Second. Moved by Dr. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Seconded by Do you second on this side? Yes, I favor
I. Uh Councilman Merwin. All in favor? I. Any opposed? Hearing none, we're now open. >> Okay, we're now open to the public. Anyone wish to be heard on H2? Seeing no hands, I'll ask to close
public portion. Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Can I have a second? Councilman Azzolina. All in favor? I. Any opposed? Hearing none, we're now closed to public public the public hearing is now closed. Okay, now council
to my left, is there anyone who has a question? Anyone on my right? Okay, seeing no hands, I'll ask for a motion. Move it. Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Seconded by Councilman DePalma. Roll call. Councilman Azzolina.
>> Yes. Councilman DePalma. >> Yes. Councilman Desai. >> Yes. Councilman Yes. Councilman Pascale. >> Yes. Councilman Rizzoli. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. >> Yes. Council President Sohayda. >> Yes. Motion carries.
Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Council. Have a good night. >> Thank you, Nicole. Next is H3, resolution approving a person-to-person plenary retail consumption liquor license number 1209-33-002 from ALMS Caterers LLC to LIB Caterers
LLC. Good evening. Good evening. Timothy Horn from Valente and DeLuca. I'm representing LIB Caterers LLC. This is the business known as Palms Plaza Catering. Mr. Burfon is the owner. We're just transferring the liquor license from one
LLC he owns to another LLC. He'll be conducting the same business as he has for the last 25 years, providing a great service to the Township of Old Bridge. I don't believe he needs any further introduction. He's well qualified to hold a liquor license. Okay. So just
wanted to make a statement Yeah. for the record that they have met all the requirements set forth. And they are they have they are all ready. They published their notice and are ready to be transferred. Okay, thank you very much, Kate. All right, so we all open it to the public now. I need a motion. Move
it. Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Seconded by Councilman Merwin. All in favor? I. Any opposed? Hearing none, we're now open to public. Okay, is there anyone here who'd like to be heard on H3? Anyone in the public?
See Seeing no hands, I'll close the ask for a motion to close. Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Seconded by Councilman Azzolina. All in favor? Any opposed? Hearing none, the public hearing is now closed. Okay, anyone on
my left a question for? Anyone on my right? Okay, I need a motion. >> Move it. Second. Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Seconded by Councilman DePalma. Roll call. Councilman Azzolina. >> Yes. Councilman DePalma. >> Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman
Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. >> Yes. Councilman Rizzoli. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. >> Yes. Council President Sohayda. >> Yes. Motion carries. Okay, thank you, gentlemen. >> Thank you. Have a good evening.
Next will be bill list. Resolution authorizing payment of bills. Can I have Mr. Oh, I'm sorry, approval of minutes. I'm sorry, approval of minutes. >> [clears throat] >> Excuse me, resolution approving regular combined council meeting minutes of
March 17th, 2026 and April 7th, 2026 budget subcommittee meetings of March 18th, 2026 and March 24th, 2026. Do I have a motion? >> Move it. Moved by Council Vice
President. Seconded by Councilman Azzolina. Roll call. Councilman Azzolina. >> Yes. Councilman DePalma. >> Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. Councilman Pascale. >> Yes. Councilman Rizzoli. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr.
Greenberg Bella. >> Yes. Council President Sohayda. >> Yes. Motion carries. Next will be bill list, Mr. DePalma. Bill list as of April 28th, 2026. Accounts payable, April 28th, 2026, $14,965,632.48.
Payroll, April 10th, 2026, $1,243,627.36. Payroll overtime, April 10th, 2026, $27,594.60. Payroll, April 24th, 2026, $1,312,000 $319,000 and $0.01. And payroll
overtime, April 24th, 2026, $42,242.80. Thank you. Can we have a breakdown of the overtime, please? Yes. Thank you. For the April 10th payroll, we saw a slight uptick as we had our Easter distribution for the food bank and also our recycling keep clean
communities weekend program we started. The sworn police overtime for that pay period was $13,604.33. The duct ETO, $3,572.41 for a total of $10,031.92. For the April 24th overtime, there was no major upticks.
The sworn police officer overtime for that time was $26,837.94. The duct grants, $3,645.53. The duct ETO, $5,501.48 for a total of $17,690.93. And there was mandatory training during that payroll, so that's why there was a
bit of an uptick in the overtime. Okay, thank you very much. Do I have a motion? Second. Moved by Councilman Von Stetten Von Stetten. Seconded by Councilman Pascale. Roll call. Councilman Azzolina. >> Yes. Councilman DePalma. >> Yes.
>> Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. >> Yes. Councilman Rizzoli. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. >> Yes. Council President Sohayda. >> Yes. Motion carries. Okay, next will be
second reading ordinances for second reading H1. Ordinance amending chapter 108 of the code of the Township of Old Bridge entitled construction code uniform by amending 108-4
entitled fees. I'd like to open it up to the public. Open the public hearing. Motion. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella motion. Second? Second. Seconded by Councilman Von Stetten. All in favor? I. Any opposed?
Hearing none, we're now open the public hearing. Okay, anyone in public wish to be heard on H1? Seeing no hands, I'll ask for a motion to close public. >> Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Seconded by Councilman Pascale.
All in favor? I. Any opposed? Hearing none, we're now closed to the public the public hearing is now closed. Okay, anyone on my left council questions? Mr. Merwin. Can you go to the mic? >> Sorry about that. What fees are
Do you want to, please? Thank you. They're going to they'll address them. It's the uniform construction code fees. Uniform construction code. Good evening, gentlemen. Good evening. So just to give you a little bit of background, um Matt McGowan is our construction
official and and Keith Brennan is our assistant construction official. About a month or so ago, they've been working with the DCA. We needed to update some of our fees to be in compliance with with DCA regulations. So this is what the amendment is for. It's for the fees in the building department. Right, thank
you. Thank you, Anna. So if you could just give us a little quick little Good. >> [laughter] >> Or you can hear me. So you have to push you have to push. Just hit the button. Just hit the button. That's it, sir. Thank you. Got to go green. Yeah, go
green. >> [laughter] >> Thank you, council members and council president and administration. Um Yes, Matt and I had a visit a few about a month ago, 2 months ago from the state. They they periodically check on
Township building departments. So they did the rounds, they hit Old Bridge. Our fee schedule was antiquated. The last major rehaul we had was about 10 years ago. Since then, the state has changed some requirements, regulations. They created a met mechanical subcode which never
existed before. So we needed to redo the fee schedule. We actually lowered some fees to be in line in alignment with the state's regulations. And then we also balanced some fees out. There were also some fees that we were
charging we were enforcing the mechanical regulations but we were going to like plumbing fire and electric to get those fees. They're now in their own section under mechanical. And then we also we took the opportunity to make it easier to digest to the public. So we
created an administrative fee section. Before we had to go actually into the building subcode to pull out those fees for TCOs. If anyone's pulled a permit you know that you can pull a permit other than building that would require some sort of certificate. So now it makes it a little bit easier.
We also I believe it was a couple council um council meetings ago you approved a um renewal of the SDL or construction program. We're now required by the state to start offering online plan review electronic submission which will streamline the process.
Because of that we're allowed to actually subsidize that the fees for that. We can actually charge the permit submission the permit applicant to offset the cost to actually enable this with our programs with the monitors we had to get. So we had to add
that to the fee schedule too. So again we kind of just took the opportunity to revisit the entire fee schedule revamp it make it more in alignment and just make it more user friendly to Hopefully like I said go maybe 10 or 12 years [clears throat] and we won't have to do anything. But you know
typical state they do actually have a tendency to revise things periodically. But I think this should be good for you know at least another decade. >> Just to add something to that is that it's been it's been more than a decade since we cleared up the language of this fee schedule and it's
you know it's been confusing some sometimes for some people when they look at it. And [clears throat] it should be much clearer now. So I took the opportunity once the state came in and took the opportunity to clean it all up. Thank you. You're welcome. Seeing no one else I'd ask for a motion.
>> Move it. Move by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie second by Councilman Asatourian. Roll call Councilman Asatourian. Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. Yes.
Councilman Pascale. Yes. Councilman Rosalie. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie. Yes. And Council President Soha. Yes. Motion carries. Thank you. Can I just just really quickly one more thing? Um
Matt McGowan is retiring at the end of May so we just want to give him a round of applause. >> [applause] >> We we thank him for all his years of service but I just wanted to put him on the spot since he doesn't get to come to much council meetings. So Thank you Matt. >> for a long time almost 32 years.
Thank you. >> [laughter] >> Thank you very much Councilman. 32 years. Yeah. Five keeps going in and out. Thank you. Of the code of the Township of Old Bridge entitled office of the tax assessor by including a new 5-47
entitled disabled veterans exemption. Like to open it to the public please. Do I have a motion? Second. Motion by Councilman Von Stetten second by Councilman Pascale. All in favor? Any opposed? Hearing none we're now open
to public the public hearing is now opened. Okay anyone in the public wish to be heard on H2? Seeing no hands I'd ask for a motion to close public Move it. Second. Move by Councilman DePalma second by
Councilman Pascale. All in favor? Any opposed? Hearing none. Okay now I'll go to council anyone on my left. Yes Mr. Merwin. We give that 100% disabled veterans Yes we do. >> What's the big difference between what
we're doing or are we just codifying? Yes we're just codifying it because it was never in our ordinance and and most towns do have it in there. It just makes sense to do it. It's you know pursuant to the state statute so this just cleans it up and puts it up in there. That's all. Very good. Thank you.
Anyone else on my left have a No. Okay anyone on my right? No. Okay I'll ask for motion. >> Move it. Second. Move by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie second by Councilman DePalma. Roll call Councilman Asatourian. Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes.
Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. Yes. Councilman Rosalie. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie. Yes. And Council President Soha. >> Yes. Motion carries. Okay H3 ordinance amending chapter 145 of the code of the
Township of Old Bridge entitled ethics by amending 145-3 entitled definitions. Like to open it to the public. Is there anyone give me a motion? Second. Move by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie second by Councilman
DePalma. All in favor? I. I. Hearing any opposed? Hearing none we now open the public hearing portion. Right anyone in the public like to be heard on H3? Seeing no one I will close ask to close
public please motion. Move it. Second. Move by Councilman DePalma second by Councilman Pascale. All in favor? I. I. Hearing none. We now close the public hearing portion. Anyone on my left questions about this? This this is just us meeting and
matching what the state has right because we were above and beyond what the state has and this is just getting us back in line with them right? >> Yes that's right. Just another cleanup. All right anybody else have a question? All right motion. Second.
Move by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie second by Councilman Von Stetten. Roll call Councilman Asatourian. >> Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. Yes. Councilman Rosalie.
>> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie. Yes. And Council President Soha. Yes. Motion carries. I'd like a motion and a second and then we'll ask for separations. >> Move it. Second. Move by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie second
by Councilman Pascale. Councilman Asatourian any items for separation? No thank you. Councilman DePalma any items for separation? I have none tonight Kate. Thank you. Councilman Desai. No thanks. Councilman Merwin. C1 C3.
C1 and C3. Councilman Pascale. No separations thank you. Councilman Rosalie. No separations thank you Kate. Councilman Von Stetten. No separations thank you. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie. No separations thank you. And Council President Soha. I'm good thank you. Okay
so we're going to take a motion we're going to take a motion to approve the balance of the consent agenda with the removal of C1 and C3. Move it. Second. Move by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie second by Councilman Pascale. Roll call Councilman
Asatourian. >> Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. >> Yes. Councilman Rosalie. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie. Yes. And Council President
Soha. Yes. Next will be C1 Mr. Merwin. Yeah this is the reval for the entire town. This is the one that's been kicked around yeah. Kicking around right? Okay I just wanted to make sure. Yeah no it's it's the one
that we have to [clears throat] address. Okay so are you any other question or just Okay so you made a motion or you made a motion or no? Make a motion. Okay. As long as nobody else has any. Okay. Second by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg
Bellaie. Roll call Councilman Asatourian. Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. Yes. Councilman Rosalie. Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellaie. Yes. Council
President Soha. Yes. C3 Mr. Merwin. Yes. Mark the um this military veteran preference Correct. is strictly for combat veterans.
The military preference but you don't have to um I think under the um Just No no preference for United States military veterans whether or not they're combat >> I know what it says there but the backing documentation Yeah I but
strictly [snorts] you know The the resolution because we checked if you know we checked with uh um our administrative agent with respect to it so it's it's not limited to combat veterans. It's any US military veterans.
All right so That's what the resolution states. Okay that I yeah I I I see that it's you know with military veterans but I just want to make Listen, I believe that the combat veterans should get preference. And then the the you know, have a
secondary preference for the the non-combat zone preference. >> Right. And this And this language that the language relative from the preference is out of the statute. That's where the language >> But will Marsh will Marsh Habitat for
Humanity make sure will they follow that and make sure that they know that's what we're intending? >> Well, they're going to follow what the resolution says. The resolution says preference for United States military veterans without breaking out combat veterans, right.
Yes. And there and and part of the the the reasoning is is that they're going to start marketing and because they're um some of the grant monies that I think that they received require them to to you know, to have something from the township as to the
uh the veterans preference and how it's going to be implemented. And then I know there was a question of you know, whether we could limit it to just township residents first. Which Right, which under the race that
the language is out of Yes. >> That was I asked that question. They told me no. Exactly. There's certain HUD funding that allows for that, but whatever the HUD funding they received for this project didn't allow for that. >> Well, yeah, what they you know, and we wouldn't get the credit. Correct. You know, the cover credit.
>> Correct, yep. General so we Now, can we two-tier it? Can we two-tier it that a combat um veteran would have like a two-week thing and then the regular veteran have Now, if you look at the statute, the statute talks about the percentage and
it just talks about the veterans without making distinction. So again, this is what the language comes from. I I'm just I mean, if six non-combat veterans put in for first and they qualified, then the combat veteran Yeah, the day and and and we had you know, with one of
the and having the the discussion with uh uh even with um the other municipal sponsored project we you know, was that that had a veterans preference. One of the the difficulties that they said they had was you know, when they opened up the application process, it's
all about timing, right? So they had initially had 18 veterans apply. So what happens with a veterans preference, if you have a thousand people, they go to the top of the list, right? Their applications go. But then no one has to happen that they have to follow through. And a lot of times, and I think it's
really to it's a systemic issue relative to you know, veterans and how and you know, look, it's not secret that a lot of them have you know, difficulties and they need help. And and so it you know, that the state law doesn't make any
adjustment for the fact that hey, maybe they need help and maybe the the application process should be extended. That would require state fix. So what one of the things that they were coming up against is that while they had these preferences, they would follow up, but the the veteran wouldn't follow up, right? They wouldn't submit what they
needed to to to submit. And or they were in existing leases that they couldn't get out of in order to make the timing, right? So um and I think that's really it's an issue at the state issue that they should examine because while you know, obviously people you know, there's
a need for for veterans housing, uh the process doesn't and while there's a allow allowance for preference, I think the realities are not being considered relative to some of the the uh impediments they have to complete the
process. I I I I just want to make sure we got six houses that are going to be for sale. Yeah. The veterans, I want to make sure the veterans can get in there. Yeah, right. And then we do all the marketing that you you can. And you know, and this might be a little bit easier and I should say, but even though
it's a these are fee simple, so it's not like with leases, they might be tied up in a lease, right? The the bigger issue here just may be qualifying for a mortgage. I mean, we we I mean, we have Bob Weiss from town is the state VFW >> Yeah. um liaison to make sure that they
get their benefits that they deserve. >> Right. So I was talking to him and you know, like they don't even notice stuff. We're sending it to the local VFW. We're sending them Them Them guys got houses. Well, they they send it to more than
just the local. I think they they I mean, you start local, right? Because you want to make it and then and then you go beyond that. And then even with speaking with um Liz DeCorsy from Habitat and then with Megan York from Community Grants and Planning as our affordable housing
agent, you know, we had talked about right, let's see what the maximum we can do, right? The exposure, so and and it'll be it'll be interesting because these are fee simples. The last development was rentals. >> Simple is a home ownership. Yeah, so ownership, right? So so it may be in
this instance actually might be easier to place the veterans. Can we set the parameters or or at least the minimum parameters that we we say hey, we should be sending it to this VFW thing. uh Tunnel to Towers and you know,
And if you remember with Megan is that that um it because you can can open up I mean, as far as who you send it to, there's no limit to that. And I think the the the important part was is that or significant part was you know, you know, you just can't limit to to
municipal residents veterans. Uh but yeah, who you send it to, we can certainly advise them and have our administrative agent work with Habitat as to where the exposure should be, for sure. And we and we've uh you know, we alerted them to that fact.
I mean, just as long as long as they they're going to get it. I don't know. Yeah, now I get I like sitting up here saying oh, we're giving a veteran preference and then nobody gets it. >> Yeah, now I get Look, I I said I think a part of the issue is really it's a systemic issue and and the state state legislature needs to come up with a fix
so that there's more of an ability for the veterans to get into the process, you know, and follow through and whatever assistance they need. I mean, I'm sure there's programs out there, but a lot of times like I said, just in in speaking with the Richmond Group, the representative was that you know, they
had a lot of applications from veterans, but most of them dropped out after they picked up the application, right? They didn't submit the application. Okay. All right. So do we I'll move it if nobody else has anything. All right. I'll second. Second move by Councilman
Merwin, second by Council Vice President Dr. Kimberly Felai. Roll call. Councilman Astorino. Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. Councilman Paskitti. Yes. Councilman Rizzoli. Yes. Councilman
Bonsted. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Kimberly Felai. >> Yes. >> And Council President Sohayda. >> Yes. Motion carried. Okay. Next will be I have no report, Council President. Nothing to report, Madam President. Thank you.
Number one, second quarter tax payments. The Township Division of Tax Collection will be open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the second quarter tax collection period. The tax office will also be open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9th, 2026.
Payments can be made in person at the tax office, at the drop box located near the front doors of the Thomas J. English Administration Building, by mail, online through our website, and through signing up for automatic withdrawal. For homeowners who are in our automatic withdrawal program, your taxes will be
withdrawn on or about May 5th, 2026. For additional information, residents should contact the Old Bridge Division of Tax Collection at 732-721-5600, extension 2999. Number two, the Township of Old Bridge will hold the second public hearing to discuss and review the Township of Old
Bridge draft 2026 annual action plan for CDBG programs. The draft 2026 annual action plan will be available during the period of May 1st, 2026 through June 1st, 2026 for review and comments. Residents may submit their comments by
mail, telephone, or in person Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Comments will be received until June 1st, 2026. Comments can also be mailed to my attention at the Township of Old Bridge, One Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge, New Jersey 08857.
Copies of the plan are available for public inspection during regular Township hours at the office of the business administrator and online at oldbridge.com/projects. Residents may submit their comments through email to engineering@oldbridge.com. On May 21st, 2026, a public hearing will
be held on the draft 2026 plan at 3:00 p.m. in the Old Bridge Township Administration Building located at One Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge, New Jersey 08857 in conference room 217 on the second floor. Interested parties may attend the hearing and present their comments on
the draft plan. Number three, the Old Bridge Township Parks and Recreation half-day summer camp will be held held from June 29th through July 31st with no camp on July 3rd. Registration opens on Monday, May 11th at 6:00 p.m.
Please have your RecDesk account set up prior to registering. For more information, please visit our website at oldbridge.com/recreation or call the Parks and Recreation Department at 732-721-5600, The Old Bridge Township Memorial Day Parade will take place on Monday, May
5th, 20 I'm sorry, on Monday, May 25th, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. It will start at Memorial Elementary School on Eli Avenue and will proceed proceed down Lawrence Parkway towards the waterfront, across over Route 35, continue on Shoreland Circle,
and conclude at Memorial Park in front of the Laurence Harbor Fire Company and Laurence Harbor First Aid building. This year's Grand Marshal is Joseph Chef- Shafron. Sorry. Uh private first class US Army. For more information, please visit our website at
obridge.com/recreation or call the Parks and Recreation Department at 732-721-5600 extension 4999. And I do have one more item um that I received towards the end of this afternoon. As you know, the uh bridge going into
Matawan on 516 was closed about a week and a half ago due to emergency work. We received word from the County Engineering Department today that unfortunately, as they have um been working on the bridge, there's a lot more structural issues that have
come up and that requires additional work. So, unfortunately, we're looking at that bridge being closed till Memorial Day. We are working closely with the county and hope that it may be reopened sooner than that. Um but for now, we have extended the closure. Uh all social media pages are going to be updated
tomorrow with that information, and as we get more information, we'll make sure to share it with the residents and council. And just so you know, we are supposed to have some punch list work and paving of Cottrell uh to be done on that project that they did. Uh our engineering department and our township engineer, Nick Car Shapiro, has been
working on the with the county that that project will not fully start until that is done as to not create too many detours and chaos throughout town. So, just wanted to let you all know that. Thank you. >> [clears throat] >> Okay, does anyone have any questions? Anna, any comments for Anna?
No. Okay, seeing no hands, I'll ask for motion to accept. >> Okay. Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell Eye, seconded by Councilman Von Stetten. All in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Report is accepted. Okay. All right, so
We need a motion to um enter a little change in the agenda. Right, a motion to enter into executive session. >> Move it. Okay. Motion by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell Eye, seconded by Councilman Azzatori. We will be returning, and we're going into um
executive session for personnel matter and two litigation matters. Okay. Can I get a motion to enter executive session? Move it. Second. I'm sorry, we got a motion and a second. >> of order, a quick question. Um reference
to the personnel matter, what's the special circumstances we're going in executive for that? I mean, that's a zoning board member. I'm looking at see citizen application. >> So So, we're So, we're going into discuss all the
executive session matters presently, or we're going to limit to the personnel matter? I'm sorry. >> No, I'm asking why is that matter going into executive session? Because it is it's an executive session matter, that's why. It deals with personnel. So, a zoning board member falls under
personnel? Yes, it does. And I already advised of that. I understand, I wanted a clarification on it, so I'm asking a question because I don't see anywhere where it's personnel. So, she's a Is she an employee? So, no, again, I I I I advised it's a personnel matter, requires attorney-client privilege discussion. That's why it was listed as
such. I have a question, Madam President. Uh what's the reason that we can't allow the folks to speak first? Councilman Azzatori Yes. Councilman DePalma Yes. Councilman
Desai No. You don't want to go into executive? Okay. Councilman Merwin Yes. Councilman Pascale Gigliotti >> Yes. Councilman Rizzoli Yes. Councilman Von Stetten Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell Eye Yes.
Council President Sobel Harris Yes. We'll reconvene after after uh executive session. We will be coming back to finalize business. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm.
>> Mhm. >> Motion to approve. >> Motion by Councilman But I'm sorry, who made the motion? Dr. Greenberg Bella. Second by Councilman Azzolina. Uh Councilman Pascuiti. Roll call. Councilman Azzolina.
>> Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Off the dais, Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascuiti. Yes. Councilman Rizzoli. Off the dais, Councilman Bonstedden. >> Yes. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg
Bella. Yes. Council President Sohar. >> Yes. Yep. 9:40 9:47. That's my bedtime. Where's Linda? Public comment portion of our meeting is to allow the public to bring to the council's attention their concerns or comments. This section is open for any
topic or items on the consent agenda in accordance with NJSA 10:4-12A and the Old Bridge rules of council. The council asks the public to limit their comments to 3 minutes or less. Only one member of the public shall approach to speak to council at a time. The council will respect the public's time by refraining
from any comment until the speaker has finished with their allotted time. It should be further noted that the public comment portion of our meeting is not constructed as a question and answer session. If a member of the public has questions they seek answers to, an appointment can be made with the corresponding department's office during regular business hours. The township
clerk will regulate the time during the comment portion of our meeting. As you approach the microphone, please state your name, no addresses. Yep. Before we begin, uh I'm I would imagine that there's some people in the public here regarding one of the executive session matters, uh the zoning
board uh member issue, personal issue. Just so you know that that that uh member uh did submit her letter of resignation to council uh later this afternoon. So, she's resigned from the zoning board. And the only thing I'm going to do I'm going to caution about is the fact that
we're not So, again, if you come up, you know, we're not going to have people making, you know, uh remarks about somebody's uh uh personal stuff. Uh you know, we've been down this road and there's no reason to do it. Um the
individual resigned um and I know there were comments made in the past, but we're not going to allow either side to to go down that road because it doesn't serve any purpose for anybody. Thank you. All right. Good evening.
Your name, please. >> Good evening. Uh my name is Roseann Andrews. I'm speaking I'm speaking as a citizen and a concerned resident invoking my First Amendment right to freedom of speech and I speak for and only for myself. For more months than I
can count, Pat Testaverde has been vilified, lied about, and subject to misinformation. This is the truth. Pat Testaverde, a former decorated New York City police sergeant, is smart, knowledgeable, honest, very kind,
trustworthy with very high integrity. To prove this, I'll share this little story. Councilman Merwin, you received a variance from the zoning board. Pat and I voted for your variance. It was unanimous. Pat and I
do not like you. We don't like your views, but you know what? The personal feelings did not count. We judged on the facts that were presented and that's how honest, responsible board members behave.
The woman who leads the charge against Pat hates >> I don't Well, I I don't want to go down that road. I Neither does council. >> sorry. I've listened here for months Uh again, >> my mouth shut and now that things have been done, I am going to speak.
>> No. I'm sorry. This is my right as my freedom of speech. >> your your right, but you don't have to >> with your attorney, but I'm sorry. This has to be said. I've I've listened to But you have to You're a zoning board member as well. May I remind >> I'm speaking as a private citizen. >> But you but you're you're a zoning board member.
That doesn't make a difference. It does I do not give up my right to freedom of speech >> I serve on a board. I serve honestly and responsibly. I'm not accusing you. I'm telling you >> to fight with me. >> You're stopping me from speaking my
mind. You are. You don't as an you don't stop being a zoning board official as a even though you're you don't. So, you know, you don't. You're you're always be a zoning board member. I don't know what you're going to talk about on the zoning board. I'm not sure what you're going to talk about, but the
fact of the matter is is that the actions were taken. Uh she resigned >> I know. That's and I knew she resigned before she resigned. >> Okay. Well, then you knew that and you knew before I knew, so >> This is the aftermath of that resignation. I don't know if there's any aftermath.
>> Well, to me there is an aftermath. I I you know, and I'm not sure what your discussion is. If you can say you work If you can say you want to you spoke you work That's why. That's what I have to say. >> I don't know if people dislike her or not dislike her. Are you kidding? Have you been here at the past couple of
months meetings? >> I I haven't been here, right? I'm sorry. I'm being as respec- respectful as I can be. >> respectful. >> you're denying somebody The President of the United States has the right to freedom of speech and he's the president. I am a zoning board member.
That is not the the be-all and end-all >> I'm not saying it is, but depending on what you say or may may may not say. I don't know what you're going to say. It may have an impact because you are a public official. It won't have an impact. >> I don't know. Well, then listen to me and if you think it has an impact, tell
me why. >> I try That's why I cautioned you about That's why I cautioned you about what you were saying. Would you like to read it? >> want to read it. >> I want to bring out the point of the type of person that is on the zoning board and the type of people we are on the zoning board.
>> talk about the type of people you're good people on the zoning board, >> Yes, we're responsible, honest, and trustworthy. We had to listen to someone come up here and accuse the zoning board of taking bribes. Time is up. >> Okay, back on. Hi, Jill DeCaro, Old Bridge resident. I
was just curious as to why you made the public wait for public comment. You had to go into executive session and make the public wait for comment. If you can, I know the question was asked before you guys went in and it wasn't answered, so I would just like a
a reasoning for that. Thank you. Is there anyone else? Good evening. Carmela Spinelli. I just have a question because I thought executive sessions were private and the matters discussed and presented in executive sessions was
private. And I was amazed was sitting home watching that we had a council member state one of the subjects about what you were going into an executive member about and we had an ex-council person post on residents page
a day ago that that subject was going to be brought up. So, I didn't see it. I was told about it. It didn't say a name, but it did say the subject was going to be brought up in an executive session. And the fact
that a sitting council member also basically alluded to it, it's a little disturbing. The other thing I want to bring up and I don't know what meeting it was. It was a couple of meetings ago. You actually weren't here. I guess somebody was sitting in for you.
Um the public spoke. They brought up two names of people. One was way, way long ago and one was recently and the current the fill-in or I I'm sorry, I'm calling him a fill-in, but the the other
attorney did nothing to shut it down. And I thought we weren't going to do that anymore. So, it's just it was noticed and I would think that if that happens again in the future, that should be shut down as well. Thank you.
Hi. Thank you. State your name for me, please. Good evening. My name is Crystal Mercado and I've been a resident of Old Bridge for 12 years. I'm returning after having previously been here to advise you all of the severe price discrepancy amongst your township before and after care
program options. Since September, I have requested and received monthly enrollment numbers and program expenses from your offices. Using that data, my husband and I have calculated the fair monthly and hourly rates for before care, after care, and the before and after care combined
programs based upon enrollment, billable hours, expenses, and an average of 18 school days per month. This was done to compare the calculated rates to what you are currently charging families. On page two, you will see how Old Bridge's rates compare to the cost of the same program in our neighboring
towns. On page three, you will find a main table. This is a breakdown of each program option with your current monthly and hourly rates compared to what the fair calculated monthly and hourly rates actually are. The discrepancies are significant. At the start of the year, you were charging the 1 to 3-day before
care families as much as $14.81 per hour, while the 5-day week before and after care combination families are only charged $5 per hour. According to the calculations broken down on the following pages, the fair average hourly rate across all programs should be $6.55
per hour. My daughter's enrolled in the 5-day before care program. As you can see, my family was charged $340 per month from September through December and then it was lowered to 310 starting in January after we brought these concerns to light. Based on the data,
our fair monthly rate should be $235.68. This means my family has been overcharged $640.24 so far this school year, not inclusive of the final 3 months. Adding up her enrollment costs in total for this year and last school
year, you have overcharged my family approximately $1,700 in 2 years. I do not take this lightly. Last week, my daughter was hungry in before care and had to buy breakfast using money I put on her school lunch account. According to the OPRA my husband and I filed in
August for financial information for this program, there was a $45,000 food budget in place. This budget is strictly in place place for the after school children to receive snacks. My child does not benefit from this and unfortunately feels as though my family is paying for it.
I understand that parks and recreation have been working hard on making next year's costs fair due to the concerns my husband and I have brought forth. I ask that you seriously review those numbers, ask for data to back them up, ask questions about individual program costs, and make certain everything is
fair before approving them. Page four of those documents are a list of questions I hope you take into consideration. I want to thank you for listening to my concerns. My family has nothing but wonderful things to say about the program itself. My goal is for there to be a fair, equitable child care program that I know the township prides
themselves on not outsourcing like most of our neighboring towns do. This is strictly about holding the township accountable for fair pricing. Thank you. >> your time. Nina Jacknowitz. Do I Do I have to give anything else? Old Bridge resident.
By the way, thank you, council, for accepting the resignation of the person on the zoning board. I appreciate that and I'm sure that that will put to end a number of the things that people have had in question and and also apply Thank you. I know, Mr. Frizalone.
But thank you again. I do have a question and it actually is in regard to the clerk's documentation and Mary's signatures on the January 29th um summary of of the of the minutes of the the meeting. It it didn't appear to
include a number of the informa- things that were said by one of the council persons, uh Dr. Bellai, and I'm concerned that it was it was a it was an omission that um that I don't think it's fair to the public. I mean, 50,000 plus people I just looked today in the New Jersey
nj.com saw the video, so it doesn't actually say what what was said. And I understand that it's a summary, but it was not very accurate to the summary. And so, I was hoping that the council would look back to January 29th and review the omission and update it
properly so that I that you that it actually reflects what was said. But thank you guys again and have a great night. Okay, is there anyone else in the public who wishes to be heard this evening? Hello. My name is John DeCruz.
Um I've been a resident I was here before. And there was a couple of concerns that we had. And to this day, like I said before, that I'd like to get a meeting with you guys
because I want to throw nobody under the buses, but I don't want to sue my This is my town. But it's going to come to being sued for stuff that's been going on. I tried to get
hold of the lawyer, the prosecutor, always got turned away. So, I'm going to come to the meeting to try to get some of this solved. So, I would like to try to get a a meeting, you know, just just with city
council, just in a room because there's things that's been going on for years. And it's I can't understand where it's illegal and nobody does anything about it.
And it's like I brought it up for over 20 years now. And it's like I've been in here. I should have just pitched the tent outside. Oh, this has been going on for years. And it's like
She even knows about the other stuff. is uh I don't want to throw Like I said, I don't want to throw people under the bus. But, you know what? I came here. We did some of this stuff you know, with my uncle with his dedication tree, you know?
You guys put up the sign for the veteran. But, you know what? I didn't get a dedication tree. A little little bush that was dedicated to the kids that were first in Florida for band.
That wasn't a part of my uncle's. And what it is is, you know, I'm just I just finally I'm enough. I've been a nice guy. Go to court all the time with Judge tried to be a nice guy about things. I tried to be the nice guy. I get run
over. I'd like to, you know, if I if I could get a meeting with you one-on-one, you know, it would have solved a lot of this. First of all, you have to let Anna know what he's talking about cuz I have no idea.
I'll email it and I sent a bunch of videos, too. So, this way, you know, you It's your time. It's a lot of stuff. Is there anyone else in the public who wishes to be heard this evening? Good evening. Katherine Whitley.
And I just want to say to Mr. Rosalie, I think it was really highly inappropriate for you to try to police what anyone says during the public comment. And I believe you owe this woman an apology. I would love to hear you give her an apology for that because this is not
your time. This is my time. >> I understand that. It's not a matter >> And you're interrupting me. >> a matter of you're It's not a matter of It's not a matter of policing, but I want to make sure that meetings are conducted in an appropriate manner so that we don't have free for alls because that shouldn't happen in any public
meeting. Well, people have a public comment, they don't they don't doesn't mean they can disrupt meetings. And it's the because the this is a meeting is for the the government body to conduct business. And it's a public comment, but that doesn't mean people also have the right to, you know, cast aspersions on
others, you know, make make defamatory remarks about That that that's not the purpose of the meeting. So, it's just I was trying to explain is that we want to move forward, right? And if you want to talk about things about issues issues talked about the government, but it's not an opportunity of free for all the
people to talk about other people, you know, make comments about other people. That's not what public comment's about. Do you Do you believe that if I came up here and stood quiet for 3 minutes, that would be a problem? Would that be disruptive? >> say that. Okay. I still think you owe
her an apology. Thank you so much for hearing me. Okay. Is there anyone else in the public who wishes to be heard? Okay. Seeing no hands, then I'll close public portion. Go to council comments. We need a motion We need a motion to
>> Move it. Move by Move by Councilman Von Staaten, second by Councilman DePalma. All in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Hearing none, public comment portion is now closed. Council comments. Councilman Anastatui. Good evening, everyone.
As a councilman here in Old Bridge, I want to speak about something bigger than politics, bigger than party lines, and bigger than any one person. I want to talk about our rights, our freedoms, and the foundation of this country we call home. I believe our rights are not given by the government.
They are given to us by God simply by being born. Freedom, liberty, the right to speak, to worship, to defend our families, and live with dignity, these are not privileges handed out by politicians. They are God-given rights. That is why the Constitution of the United States is one of the greatest
documents ever written. It was created to protect those rights, not to replace them. It was written to make sure government serves the people, not the other way around. As elected officials, our job is not to rewrite freedom. Our job is to govern responsibly and
protect the rights that are already belong to every single American in this room. We are here to uphold the law, defend the Constitution, and preserve the values that built this nation. Too often today, we hear voices saying America is no
good, that our country is broken beyond repair, that we are a nation built on failure, or even worse, that we're somehow Nazis or fascists. Let me be clear. That is not America.
America is not hatred. America is not tyranny. America is not oppression. America is freedom. America is the ability to speak your mind, even when we might disagree. America is the right to worship freely,
to raise your family in peace, to work hard, and to build a better life. America is people from every background coming together under one flag with one shared belief that liberty belongs to everyone. Yes, like every nation, we have faced
struggles and made mistakes. But, what makes America exceptional is when we confront those challenges, and we learn, and we move forward stronger. We don't erase our history. We learn from it. We also must recognize that division in
this country has gone way too far. Political disagreement should never turn into hatred. Differences of opinion should never turn into violence. We must reconcile our differences as Americans. We can disagree without destroying each other.
We can debate without hate. We can stand strong in our beliefs while still respecting one another as fellow citizens. There is no place in this country for political violence. None. Here in Old Bridge, we believe in family, faith, hard work,
and neighbors helping neighbors. We believe in accountability, responsibility, and freedom. These values are not old-fashioned. They are the reason America remains strong. For me, for my family,
and our entire community, protecting these rights is not just political. It is personal. It is about preserving the American dream for the next generation. We are proud to be from New Jersey. We are proud to serve Old Bridge, and above all, we are proud to be Americans.
Freedom, rights, responsibility. Period. That is what we stand for. That is what we must all protect. Thank you all, and God bless. Councilman DePalma. Thank you, Kate. Um So, Anna spoke about the the bridge the
bridge closure on 516 going over Lake Lefferts into Matawan. So, just so folks understand the severity of that bridge, the day after the closure, I was standing on it with the Middlesex County engineer, as well
as a couple other folks, and I saw the the workers use a screwdriver and push down the cross members. So, the inconvenience that everyone and we are dealing with, it's worth it because when I saw that
bridge, I quickly got off that bridge. And I was just standing on it. So, you know, preaching um patience for everybody for this. I understand it's an inconvenience. It's literally 300 yd away from my house. So, um we, you know,
the folks that live in my neighborhood, you know, there's one individual that sits up here on my on the dais, as well as someone that's in the the audience right now. We understand what that inconvenience is. But, please bear with us as as they are fixing that because it is a the major
thoroughfare within this town going from our county, our town into Matawan, and into Monmouth County. Um but, it does need to be fixed, and it needs to be fixed now. Otherwise, it could be a danger. So, just wanted to make sure that that we did mention it again, and
that we did thank folks for for bearing with us and bearing with the folks that are working on the bridge. Uh and then finally, just congratulations to our auxiliary retirees, as well as, you know, welcoming our new officer Officer Marzullo. You know, I want to thank the
folks that are retiring for the past for giving to our community, as well as our new officer for dedicating your career to our to our community. Thank you. Councilman Desai. Good evening, everyone.
I personally feel so sorry for people waiting for more than a hour to speak. I think that was a mistake. I don't know how it happened, but I request to
council president and my fellow coun- colleagues that this should not happen in future. According to agenda listing, the public comment come first, and executive session is always last. I
don't know why we skip those things. So, I feel sorry and I personally apologize to people who were waiting outside for more than an hour to speak. And I'm sure
this will not happen in future and I request as I said to council president and my fellow colleague that without the valid reason, this should not repeated again. Thank you.
Have a nice evening. Councilman Merwin. Yes. Um I was hoping that the township engineer would have been here, but Ocean Boulevard is the worst street in Old Bridge
Township. The worst street. I know they got 800,000 to pave half of it. Um in the interim it's a disaster to drive down. Um
and I don't even know what what they have plans what the plans are to to fix it. Um that road is built there the blacktop is on top of concrete. And um
so even when we repave it the expansion joints on the concrete is where where all the the problems lie. So, I I hope we can do something at least to get it a little uh you know, with the you know, if the road
department can do something in the interim. But uh I'll follow up with Casey and Nicole tomorrow and I'll get you the project I appreciate it. Mhm. All right, that's it. Thank you. Councilman Paskitti. Councilman Rizzoli.
Thank you, Kate. Uh I just want to congratulate our two officers on their retirement and our new officer uh have a long uh safe career. I think the one officer made reference to uh respect the uniform, which is so true. I hope that resonates throughout the community what he said tonight.
And there was a question about agenda. The agenda is posted online, so whoever posted it can post it. It's online. And a council member can mention something about the agenda. So, I don't think there was anything nefarious that went on or anything. So, with that said, thanks for coming. Have a great night. Thank you.
Councilman Von Stetten. Uh good evening. Um I won't take up a ton of time. So, I just have a few things to highlight. Um I'm going to start reporting on uh rec committee meetings. Uh they're not normally televised or anything like that, but um I think we do need to report on some things.
Unfortunately, I don't have anything to report with this meeting because we didn't have one this month. Um we will have one I think the end of May. Usually the end of May. So, once we have that, I'll report on that. Um on Sunday, went to the special Olympics event over at
Lombardi. I really enjoyed meeting all the athletes and the volunteers who made that wonderful event possible. So, I want to thank them. Uh they did a great job. Uh this week at the high school is also uh concert week basically. Um they have a concert pretty much every day. Um I
went to the high school band concert last night. And I'm truly impressed with how well those students performed. Um I want to thank thank the teachers in the music department for doing such amazing things with our kids. Um I urge you, the public, to support these students and attend these concerts this week.
Um finally, I want to voice my support for a New Jersey State Assembly Bill sponsored by one of our assemblymen, Alex Zuik. Assembly Bill 4750 would provide targeted relief to school districts that have already raised property taxes more than 9.9%. This will offset some or most tax
increases on the school side of your tax bill that are due to the ridiculously high increases in health care, which is about 34%. Uh and more to come next year. Uh I urge all of our residents to voice their support for this bill as these tax increases impact everyone.
Let's rise above party politics and have bipartisan support on this important issue. I'm calling on my fellow Republican councilman and Old Bridge Republican chairwoman Nenita to support this bill. And I'm also calling on the Old Bridge Democrats on this council and the Old Bridge Democrat chairwoman Jill DeCaro to join us and
support us on this bill. Let's work together to benefit our residents. Thank you. Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. Yes. Uh first of all, I want to say that um I was happy to attend along with uh Council President Mary Sohar, the
charity ball at the Grand Marquis for the benefit of brain injured children which raises money for the children to have a summer camp experience and other recreation and social programs. So, I want to thank um the Sayreville Association for um having this event. It
was very well attended and such an important project to do. Also, the mayor, council, um council president and myself we enjoyed opening day at Old Bridge Little League field and we were overwhelmed with the joy of
having Andriana Marie walk out to the mound and throw the first pitch. Andriana has overcome so much since her injury on the mat in January while wrestling and she is an inspiration to us all. Now, some unfortunate news. Um if you've
heard um the Governor Mickey Sherrill wants to boost the building of affordable housing, which really is a misnomer. Uh she wants to take inventory of vacant land throughout the state or under um
used land. She wants to change the legislation, streamline and expand um housing development throughout the whole house uh the whole state statewide. So, literally we are watching destruction of the Garden State. She states New Jersey
is about 300,000 units short. Okay? She never talks about road improvements, infrastructure improvements, or long-term planning. Um she said she's working very aggressively to do this. And we feel it here in Old
Bridge when they do that. When you take land, just for example, you can't talk out of both sides of your mouth that you want to be, you know, green and then build all these houses. Every tree that goes down affects the um carbon um emissions very significantly and storm
water drains and everything. So, this is really a problem in our town. Also, tonight um there is a lot of frustration I understand from people that come up, but you can't imagine our frustration that we have to hear time and time again people that are
instigators and agitators and telling falsehoods about people where they don't know the whole story. And that is just really childish and it's really unfair when you start talking about people and you don't really know what happened before or
after. And it's very frustrating to spread these things. You're not the moral standard and you shouldn't make judgments on people if you don't know the facts. So, I just wanted to say that and I hope you take it seriously in the future when you talk about other people
um disparaging and slandering people. We hear it time and time again. It's very frustrating. Yes, it's in your public comment, but I wish you would be more productive and have some ideas that would improve the community or volunteer. Um so, that that is what I
have to say about when I hear this month and month and it gets like a clan here to say that. So, it's very frustrating. Also, there's a septic event this um Sunday at the um Old Bridge High School. The Harlem Wizards will be there. Um it's a fundraiser
and starts at 3:00 p.m. Um and I just want to say best wishes to the auxiliary to the town. And everyone have a good night. Thank you. Council President Mary Sohar. Yes. Um I also attended quite a few things this
week and it was a really busy and very good weekend here in Old Bridge. Um as Councilman Von Stetten said, there was a special Olympics, which we attend every year. Um it's a phenomenal program through Middlesex County and it's headed by Karen Lewicki, who does an absolutely
phenomenal job. She has run that for so many years now and everyone just loves Karen. Those those children love her. She does a fantastic job. So, thank you, Karen. There was a lot of police officers who volunteered their time to
come and help out and give out the awards. And the bagpipes were played by Matt Matt Westfield, the officer, and it was excellent. So, they did So, again, thank you to the Old Bridge PD. That was all volunteering on their part to come
and to support this very special program at Lombardi Field. It was great. Um we also uh attended we went over to Camp Robin with the mayor. And there the Elks Club donated $10,900 to [applause] Camp Robin.
Which again is a phenomenal program that's run over there. And the Elks do that annually and they contribute to us and Sayreville, you know, and other and other towns. But I thought that was absolutely wonderful for them to take that time and and donate all that money
to such a great cause. So, that was also another great program. We went over to the high school with the mayor. We did the culture roots and culture. It was fantastic. Those children did a magnificent job of representing all the different cultures. It was so
interesting. They did dances. They They had all kinds of displays to show us and it just it just brought home just how really wonderful and diverse we are in this in this town. There were groups from all over and they really they
exhibited such love and affection for each other, too. It was a wonderful program. That was another great night. So, we really this this week we went around. There was um the group Candid Ham. They had in here before. They ran a trivia
program at the senior center and the proceeds of food bank for the food bank. So, they've been raising money now for how long? Our old friend Francisco. Yes, and they did a fantastic People had a great time. We didn't do so well. We answered a few questions, but they were good. There
were some really good people. But again, they were all volunteers. They ran the whole program. They provided beverages and some you know, some food and things and all of that's going to the food bank. So, once again, I mean, the town has a phenomenal group of people living
here from all the different areas of town and I just want to say thank you to all of them because this really does for the community. This is all for the kids. So, this is great. Thank you. Everyone have a good evening. Thank you. I'd like a motion now to >> Move it. to adjourn. Motion by Council Vice
President Dr. Greenberg Bellai, second by Councilman Von Stetten. Roll call. Councilman Asselta. >> Yes. Councilman DePalma. Yes. Councilman Desai. Yes. Councilman Merwin. Yes. Councilman Pascale. Councilman Rizzoli. >> Yes. Councilman Von Stetten. Yes.
Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bellai. Council Vice President Dr. Green and Council President Sohar. Meeting adjourned 9:26 p.m. p.m.