WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=hfPp4RTJAtc

Part: 1

1
00:02:46.879 --> 00:05:14.240
Yeah, that one's good. Good evening. I'd like to call to order the Old Bridge Township June 9th, 2026 Oldbridge Township Council meeting. Please stand for a pledge of allegiance. Please remain standing for a moment of silence and for our prayer. I pledge

2
00:05:14.240 --> 00:05:29.759
allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> As customary in this chamber, we stand for a moment for those who are

3
00:05:29.759 --> 00:05:50.000
protecting our freedoms both here and abroad, for our first responders, for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and for everyone suffering around the world. A moment of silence, please. Our prayer, Mr. Pesky.

4
00:05:50.000 --> 00:06:05.199
>> Dear Lord, bless their 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

5
00:06:05.199 --> 00:06:24.400
that we have a good conscience and soul at peace with thee and with one another. Amen. >> Amen. Thank you. Please be seated. Roll call. Council president. Thank you. >> Councilman Asatuli >> present. >> Councilman De Palama >> here.

6
00:06:24.400 --> 00:06:41.039
>> Let the record reflect that Councilman Desai is absent. >> Councilman Merwin >> present. >> Councilman Pasci >> here. >> Councilman Rosolei >> here. >> Councilman Von Stettton >> here. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli >> present. and Council President Sohar,

7
00:06:41.039 --> 00:06:56.880
I'm here. Thank you. Good evening everyone and welcome to the meeting. Um I would like to make one announcement uh before we go into the body of the meeting. Um before we begin tonight's meeting, a brief announcement regarding an item that appears on the evening's uh

8
00:06:56.880 --> 00:07:14.560
agenda concerning data centers. I want to be clear that there are currently no applications before the township council, planning board, or zoning board for the development of any data center within Oldbridge Township. Furthermore,

9
00:07:14.560 --> 00:07:31.360
the township is not actively considering or pursuing any data center projects at this time. The purpose of tonight's discussion is to simply to provide information and allow for a general policy discussion regarding data

10
00:07:31.360 --> 00:07:48.560
centers. No specific project proposal or application is being reviewed or considered by the township. Should any such proposal ever be submitted in the future, it would be subject to the appropriate public review process,

11
00:07:48.560 --> 00:08:04.879
including opportunities for public input and comment. Thank you, and we look forward to a productive meeting this evening. This meeting is being held in conformance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Notice has been given to the official newspapers of the township

12
00:08:04.879 --> 00:08:21.520
on January 8, 2026 and has been posted in public places. Next open public meeting of the township council will be held on Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Okay. Thank you. Okay. Next will be approval of minutes. A resolution approving regular combined council

13
00:08:21.520 --> 00:08:38.479
meeting minutes of April 28th, 2026 and May 5th, 2026 and the executive session meeting minutes of April 28th, 2026. Do I have a motion? >> Move it. Second.

14
00:08:38.479 --> 00:08:54.000
>> Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Belli. Second by Councilman Asatuli. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman Deama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasciddi. >> Yes. >> Councilman Rosolei. >> Yes. >> Councilman Bonstettton. >> Yes.

15
00:08:54.000 --> 00:09:09.920
>> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell. >> Yes. >> And council president Sohar. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Next will be our bill list. Councilman De Palama. >> Thank you. Bill list as of June 9th, 2026. Accounts payable June 9th 2026

16
00:09:09.920 --> 00:09:41.200
4,184,52641 payroll May 22nd 202261,344,182.51 payroll overtime May 22nd 2026 $25,283.90 payroll June 5th 20261,340,689 $9.75 and payroll overtime June 5th 2026

17
00:09:41.200 --> 00:09:58.320
$32,379.95. That is all. >> Okay. Thank you. Anna, do we have a breakdown of the overtime, please? >> Yes. Thank you. There were no major uptakes on the May 22nd overtime. The sworn police officer overtime for that

18
00:09:58.320 --> 00:10:19.920
period was $12,787.20. The duct ETO $3,46.66. 66. Deduct accreditation $1,999.65 for a total of $7,740.89. For the June 5th overtime, we did have a

19
00:10:19.920 --> 00:10:37.440
bit of an uptick due to the uh Memorial Day parade. Also, the Storm Police overtime for that payroll was $18,996.68. The duct grants $63857. deduct ETO $3,298.58

20
00:10:37.440 --> 00:10:54.800
for a total of $15,5953 and we currently currently have two officers on light duty and two officers injured on duty and this concludes my report. >> Okay, thank you very much Anna. Do I have a motion? >> Second.

21
00:10:54.800 --> 00:11:10.720
>> Moved by Councilman Von Stettton, second by um Councilman Dealma. Roll call. Councilman Acatuli. >> Yes. Councilman Dealama, >> yes. >> Councilman Merwin, >> yes. >> Councilman Pascitti, >> yes. >> Councilman Rosolei, >> yes. >> Councilman Bonstettton, >> yes.

22
00:11:10.720 --> 00:11:25.760
>> Council Vice President, Dr. Greenberg Bell, >> yes. >> Council President Sohar, >> yes. >> Eight yeses. Motion carries. >> Next will be public hearing and adoption for ordinance for second reading. First one is H1, ordinance amending the code of the township of Oldbridge,

23
00:11:25.760 --> 00:11:42.560
specifically article 8, daycare program 160-30. >> Oh, I'm sorry. I apologize. Ordinance amending chapter 273. There's a rough crowd. 273 of the township code entitled Lunch Wagons.

24
00:11:42.560 --> 00:11:58.000
Okay. Does anybody I'm going to open it to the public. Do I have a motion to open? >> Move it. Second. moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. Second by Councilman Von Stettton. All in favor? >> Okay, we're open to the public. Is there anyone in the public who wishes to be

25
00:11:58.000 --> 00:12:15.120
heard on H1? >> Okay, seeing no hands, I'll ask for a motion to close the public portion. >> Second. >> Moved by Councilman Rosolei. Who second? By Councilman Dealama. >> All in favor?

26
00:12:15.120 --> 00:12:30.880
>> We're now closed to public comment portion. >> Okay. Okay. Now, is there anyone on my left who has a question about H1, a comment? Anyone on my right? >> Okay. Seeing no hands, I'll ask for a motion. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Motion by Councilman Asatuli. Second by

27
00:12:30.880 --> 00:12:46.880
Councilman Dealama. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman De Palama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasci. >> No. >> Councilman Rosie. >> Yes. >> Councilman Vonstettton. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg,

28
00:12:46.880 --> 00:13:01.839
Bellai. >> Yes. >> Council President Sohar, >> yes. >> Seven yeses, one no. Motion carries. >> Okay. Next will be H2, ordinance amending now the code of the township of Oldbridge, specifically article 8, daycare program 160-30,

29
00:13:01.839 --> 00:13:19.920
fees for before and after school care program. Good evening. How are you this evening? >> Good evening, council. Thank you for having us here tonight. Um, I'm Matt Mccuri. I'm in charge of parks, recreation, and social services. With me tonight is Jillian Dwire. She is

30
00:13:19.920 --> 00:13:35.120
the manager of our before care and afterare program as well as our full day summer camp program. Um we are proposing fee adjustments for the 2026 2027 school year after our first full year of analysis. Our goal was to determine

31
00:13:35.120 --> 00:13:52.000
sustainable and equitable rates for our before and afterare programs. Um just as a note, our program is 100% self- sustaining. it is not um funded by the municipal tax uh base at all. Jillian was promoted to manager of our program back in 2024 and raised some questions

32
00:13:52.000 --> 00:14:07.920
about how our before and afterare rates were determined and updated. Since the 2024 25 rates were already set at that point, Jillian carried out a fullear analysis um of rates this year, looking at our programs for the entire 10-month school year of 180 calendar days,

33
00:14:07.920 --> 00:14:22.720
closely looking at enrollment, revenue, and expenditures. We had an average of 400 participants enrolled um in our program per month. Enrollment numbers for this school year. Um our in beforeare we had uh estimated 64

34
00:14:22.720 --> 00:14:38.639
children who make up 16% of our program. For afterare we had 106 children which make up 26.5 of our program. 26.5% and our combo um of both before and afterare had 230 students which was 57.5%

35
00:14:38.639 --> 00:14:54.880
of our program. Um some of the things that are unique to our program um include but are not limited to the large scale of our program. We operate in all 11 elementary schools within the township, all public schools. Um like I said before, it is fully self-

36
00:14:54.880 --> 00:15:11.920
sustaining. There are no upfront registration charges. Some people will charge you $100 just for the right to be able to register. We don't charge that. Um we do not have weight lists. Um we do not charge more for half days. um which could be an additional two hours. Um we

37
00:15:11.920 --> 00:15:26.639
are a fully inclusive program. Um if there are participants in our program, some may require one-on-one paraprofessionals or uh or a nurse. We do not charge those participants extra for that. Um just to give you guys a quick breakdown, the cost to have one

38
00:15:26.639 --> 00:15:43.440
nurse in our program for a child. Uh for beforeare only, that cost would be $18,000. a parent in before care only pays $2,700 for the entire year. Um if if we need a nurse in the afterare only, that cost to

39
00:15:43.440 --> 00:16:00.399
us would be $27,000. Um that's not counting any half days in there. Obviously with the half days, those hours go up. And then and an afterare parent would pay $4,320 for the 10 months. If we needed a nurse in before and afterare combo, that would

40
00:16:00.399 --> 00:16:17.440
cost us a minimum of $45,000. and that would not include half days where obviously that cost would go up. Um, if you're a combo parent, you're paying $5,040 for the entire year. Um, if we have a par profofessional in our program and a parah is needed one-on-one for a child

41
00:16:17.440 --> 00:16:33.040
in before care only, the cost to us for that parah would be $7,560 where the parents would pay for that same program $2,700. If we needed a parah for one-on-one child care for afterare only, that would

42
00:16:33.040 --> 00:16:50.000
be a minimum of $11,340 that we would pay and the parents cost would still stay at 4320. And if we needed a one-on-one par profofessional for before and after care combo, um that minimum that we would pay that par profofessional would be

43
00:16:50.000 --> 00:17:05.199
$18,900, not counting half days. that would go up and the combo parents would still pay $5,040. So, their rate would not change depending on if they needed um extra care for their child. Uh we are state

44
00:17:05.199 --> 00:17:21.600
licensed through the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. Each program holds its own license which requires annual upkeep monitoring to ensure we remain in compliance with state requirements to uphold each license. requirements include, but are not limited to, employee background

45
00:17:21.600 --> 00:17:37.039
checks, fingerprints, carry checks, additional testing prior to working for this specific program. At least two staff members per site need to be CPR and first aid training, and we do additional training that is funded by our program. The New Jersey Department

46
00:17:37.039 --> 00:17:52.000
of Children and Families has online training for our supervisory staff. We have monitoring reports are performed throughout the school year to ensure safeguards and practices are being properly carried out because we are state licensed. Um if there's

47
00:17:52.000 --> 00:18:08.240
participants that are um in difficult financial times they can apply through the state um to get that subsidized um and that is one of one of our major things that helps us. We are licensed. So we have that avenue that they go to a

48
00:18:08.240 --> 00:18:23.440
third party and then that third party pays us for their child to participate um in our state license program. Uh other programs nearby operate on a much smaller scale sometimes through a third party andor operate in their own facility outside of the schools such as

49
00:18:23.440 --> 00:18:40.160
a YMCA or a JCC or something like that. Um there may be contracts or agreements with the board of education or a third party company to manage such programs. Um, a few unknowns. Um, the cost of health benefits for 2027 as the school year obviously falls between the

50
00:18:40.160 --> 00:18:56.880
township's fiscal year. Uh, potential unknowns on our minimum wage increase. For instance, in 2026, the minimum wage increase was announced in October of 2025. Our rates for 2025 and 2026 were already set at that point. Um, the needs

51
00:18:56.880 --> 00:19:12.880
of the children are frequently changing. the potential for additional support via a nurse or a one-on-one par one-on-one parah are not always known during the original registration period in August and may not be known until we have that child um in our care or they may be um

52
00:19:12.880 --> 00:19:30.400
you know looking for certain resources uh par profofessionals and a nurse do not count towards our statemandated staff to student ratio um other things to note we're actively working with Dr. Sasso and the board of education when it comes to janitorial and security costs

53
00:19:30.400 --> 00:19:47.200
to see if those costs can be reduced. Currently, our hard operating costs before salary and wages are about $40,000 a month. That includes our joint insurance fund costs, workers compensation, health benefits, pension, social security, janitorial and facility

54
00:19:47.200 --> 00:20:04.559
usage, food supply, program supplies, and unemployment insurance. Please note that the school security comes out of this salary and wages line and that averages about $36,000 per month across all of our sites. Uh this is an ongoing process. This was our first year. Um but

55
00:20:04.559 --> 00:20:21.120
this is an analysis that Jillian and myself and and the entire department are going to continue to do again for this upcoming school year. Um so based on our enrollment and revenues from this year as well as our expenditures, we propose the following monthly rates for 20 for

56
00:20:21.120 --> 00:20:37.919
the 2026 2027 school year based on the 180 days 10day 10month school year. If you're a 1 to three day enrollments, you would average about 16 days per month. If you were a 4 to 5 day enrollment, you would average about 18

57
00:20:37.919 --> 00:20:53.840
days per month. So how our program operation before care is operated for 2 hours each day after care is operated for 3 hours. There's no no extra charge for the additional 2 hours for half days. Um obviously I feel like there's

58
00:20:53.840 --> 00:21:10.320
more half days now than there was when a lot of us in this room were kids. Um and our combo is obviously for 5 hours. It's the before care 2 hours plus the after care for for 3 hours. Um so five hours total and there is no additional charge for the two hours of half days. Um so

59
00:21:10.320 --> 00:21:27.440
our fee breakdown that that we proposed um was for before care only it would be $7.50 per hour. So if you were doing the 1 to3 day um before care you would pay $240 per month. Um that was $320 this

60
00:21:27.440 --> 00:21:42.960
past September and we lowered that as you recall um in February to 290. So, it's a 17.24% decrease from February, but if you go back to what we were charging in the beginning of the 25 school year, it's a

61
00:21:42.960 --> 00:21:58.880
25% decrease for the before care 1 to3 days. The 4 to 5 days for before care, um, we're proposing $270 for the 4 to 5 days. That's per month. That was $340 in September and we came in front of

62
00:21:58.880 --> 00:22:16.880
council and got that lowered to 310 in February. So the decrease from February until now reflects a 12.9% decrease. If we go back to what we were charging last beginning of the school year for 2025, that's a 20.6% decrease.

63
00:22:16.880 --> 00:22:33.760
Afterare only is will be $8 per hour at 3 hours. No additional charge for half days. For 1 to 3 days of afterare only that would be $384. That would be an increase of 6.7% from last year. Our four to fiveday program,

64
00:22:33.760 --> 00:22:49.600
we're proposing $432 a month. That is a 10.8% increase from last year. Our before and after care combo, we are looking at $5.60 per hour at 5 hours a day. For 1

65
00:22:49.600 --> 00:23:06.720
to 3 days, that rate would be $448. That reflects a 12% increase. And at four to five days, uh, that rate would be $504. And that shows a 12% increase from last year. Um, I just want to note that

66
00:23:06.720 --> 00:23:21.039
Jillian has worked extremely hard on this entire program since she started here. Um, like I said, she is the manager of our beforeare and afterare program and obviously our always popular full day summer camp. So, I would be remiss if I didn't say all the hard work

67
00:23:21.039 --> 00:23:37.600
and um hours that Jillian has put into this program. Well, >> thank you very much. That was a very good presentation. Does anyone on the council have a question? Mr. Rosolei, >> I don't have a question. I want to thank you for the detailed explanation because

68
00:23:37.600 --> 00:23:52.320
when you speak to people, you get different stories. That's why I was I'm glad you really came up and broke it down into specific details. Thank you. >> Thank you, sir. >> Yes, that was a very good presentation. Anyone else? >> No, I would like to say also thank you for all the work that the whole team

69
00:23:52.320 --> 00:24:09.039
puts into this effort and it's not easy, especially when wages keep on going up that the rate that they do and healthcare, but I know you're doing the best that you can and I hope that people understand that and appreciate it. Thank you for that discussion and presentation on the council.

70
00:24:09.039 --> 00:24:25.440
>> Okay, Anna, would you like to add anything? Before you open up to public hearing, I I do want to say that um Matt and Jillian worked hard every month and as well as Jillian staff, Diane and Richard. Um this is obviously an ongoing process. We work closely with the school

71
00:24:25.440 --> 00:24:41.360
as well. As Matt indicated, we've been actively speaking with Dr. Sasso and we're going to be working with them to see how we can make this even more affordable in the future for our parents. Um because obviously this is almost a joint venture with them. So we want to bring them into the fold as well

72
00:24:41.360 --> 00:24:57.679
and see how we can cut cost but still have a sustainable program that makes sense for everybody. So we'll continue those conversation with Dr. Sasso. He's been involved since he came in. Uh um and as Matt indicated specifically when it comes to janitorial services and uh

73
00:24:57.679 --> 00:25:12.799
school security services, we're going to see to see where there's overlaps so that way we're not there's not two costs being incurred by either them or us. Um, so hopefully that will continue to grow and uh, you know, it's hard to plan for programs like this. We do have the the

74
00:25:12.799 --> 00:25:29.840
biggest unknowns that Matt mentioned unfortunately are the most costly unknowns, the health benefits increases, the minimum wage increases. So, we kind of have to foreshadow what could happen. Um, but I think that this is bringing the program in line to make more sense

75
00:25:29.840 --> 00:25:46.000
the way that it's being calculated. Uh, and then it will just continue. we will keep doing better as as that is always our goal with anything that we do and um I appreciate Matt and Jillian's time in in working on this. >> Yeah, thank you very much. I think it's very important that we do keep

76
00:25:46.000 --> 00:26:02.240
continuing to try to do the best we can for our children and the before and after care. It's a it's a very big component of the town and we really appreciate you taking the time and the effort to try to find the best way for everyone. And to Dr. this house. So, thank you for also now being part of

77
00:26:02.240 --> 00:26:18.400
this equation with us. This is very, very positive. So, thank you all. I need a motion to open to the public, please. >> Second. >> Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Belli. Second by Councilman Von Stettton. All in favor? I. >> The public hearing is now open. Right.

78
00:26:18.400 --> 00:26:37.279
Anyone in the public wish to come up and be heard on this particular topic? >> Question on it? >> Yes, ma'am. Hold up. >> That question is that >> you're only working like five or six.

79
00:26:37.279 --> 00:26:54.080
>> We just want you to be working five or six hours a day. >> That's a part-time job. So why are we giving benefits and pension and health insurance to health part- timerrs when >> No, they're they're it's not for part- timerrs. We do have three full staff members. So Jillian getting the health

80
00:26:54.080 --> 00:27:10.000
Okay. is the way you said it. It didn't make sense and I couldn't understand why we're given health benefits. >> I appreciate that. >> No, that's it's a valid question. >> And the 10% increase, I mean, even the long shaman didn't get 10%. >> So, I just want to know why 10%. Like,

81
00:27:10.000 --> 00:27:26.000
that seems kind of high for working parents. You put them in daycare because you can't afford to stay home with them. And to put that kind of a >> increase after we just got hit with the school taxes this year. I mean, my my grandchildren don't go to daycare, so I don't really know what you are paying or

82
00:27:26.000 --> 00:27:42.000
how much or whatever, but I just thought that that was kind of high. And of course, the pension and benefits. That's my those are my two questions. >> Ma'am, could you just state your name for the record, please? >> Joan Habinowski. H A B I N O W S K I. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you.

83
00:27:42.000 --> 00:28:00.159
>> Is there anyone else who wishes to come up and be heard on this topic? No. Okay. Then I will ask for a motion to close public portion. >> Second. >> Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Bell. Second by councilman as Tuli. All in favor.

84
00:28:00.159 --> 00:28:16.080
>> Any opposed? Hearing none. We're now closed the public hearing. >> Okay. So I will ask the council for a motion. >> Second. >> Moved by Councilman Von Stettton. Second by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Bell. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes.

85
00:28:16.080 --> 00:28:32.080
>> Councilman De Palama. Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pascitti. >> Yes. >> Councilman Rosi. >> Yes. >> Councilman Vonstettton. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. >> Yes. >> Council President Sohar. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you all very much.

86
00:28:32.080 --> 00:28:51.320
>> We appreciate all the work that you do. Thank you. >> Next will be H3. Ordinance approving the financial agreement for BH Manzo Boulevard Urban Renewal LLC. Mhm. Yeah.

87
00:28:53.679 --> 00:29:10.480
People standing you could try. Is this attorney from Hanzo? Is there anyone here? >> No. No. Okay. All right. There are there where are there seats? In the back over there. >> There's a couple. >> Yeah, there's a few seats up here if anyone wants to sit. >> Okay. And if we can kind of scoot down

88
00:29:10.480 --> 00:29:27.520
to let people uh sit that are standing in the back, that would be appreciated if you have an open seat next to you. >> You guys sit up here. >> Okay. All right. So, it's an ordinance approving the financial agreement for BH Manzo Boulevard Urban Renewal LLC.

89
00:29:27.520 --> 00:29:42.000
>> Said that. >> Any questions from the council before I open it to the public? Anybody? >> Okay. Then I need a motion to open to public. >> Second. Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Belli second by councilman

90
00:29:42.000 --> 00:30:01.520
Pascitti. All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Hearing none. We're public hearing is now open. Okay. Is there anyone who would like to be heard on this particular item? Okay. Seeing no hands, then I'll close public portion and go to councel. Do I

91
00:30:01.520 --> 00:30:17.120
have a motion? >> A motion to close. >> Yeah. Motion to close. Yes. Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Bella. A second by Councilman De Palama. >> All in favor? >> Hearing none. Any opposed? We're now close to public hearing.

92
00:30:17.120 --> 00:30:32.799
>> Right. And we'll ask for a motion. >> Mhm. >> Move it. >> Second. >> Moved by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell. Second by Councilman Pasci. Roll call. Councilman Acatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman Deal. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pascitti.

93
00:30:32.799 --> 00:30:47.039
>> Yes. >> Councilman Rosolei. >> Yes. Councilman Von Staten. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell. >> Yes. And Council President Sohar, >> yes. Motion carries. Next is H4, ordinance providing for a special emergency appropriation

94
00:30:47.039 --> 00:31:05.760
pursuant to NJSA 4A4-53B in the amount of $4 million for the preparation of a complete program of re-evaluation of real property. like to make a motion to open to public.

95
00:31:05.760 --> 00:31:19.120
>> Move it. >> Second. >> Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Belli. Second by Councilman Asatuli. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Hearing none. The public hearing is now open. >> Anyone in the public wish to be heard on

96
00:31:19.120 --> 00:31:42.159
on this particular item. >> Good evening. E M A R K E. I was just curious why does it cost $4 million to do the reassessment and then why is it required? Uh and then you know what are the options instead of

97
00:31:42.159 --> 00:31:59.919
doing the reassessment and paying $4 million and how do we pay this back? >> Thank you. So the re the revaluations is mandated by the state and the county. So this was I believe and please correct me if I'm wrong I wasn't here then 2017

98
00:31:59.919 --> 00:32:17.360
2018 it was originally ordered so we have been able to delay it and then obviously co happened and things like that but now uh late at the end of 25 the county tax assessor came and told us that we had to get this done otherwise the state would impose it on us and if

99
00:32:17.360 --> 00:32:32.320
they impose it on us it would probably cost more to do it. Um so we have started the process. Unfortunately it does cost that much because it's an outside firm that comes in and do the assessment of all the properties. Um so it is something that is costly. So

100
00:32:32.320 --> 00:32:47.600
>> we how do you >> how do you come up with that number or how does that firm come up with that number? What's entailed? >> So this is a rough number of what the average cost is. It could be a little less. Hopefully it's not high. Um once we have this emergency appropriation in

101
00:32:47.600 --> 00:33:03.279
place, then we'll be going out for bid and then we'll see what the bid comes back. But at least we have this money allocated so we're able to do it. >> And this comes out of the general funds through taxes. >> John, can you explain that a little more? I have our CFO and and the tax collector. She'll explain that a little better.

102
00:33:03.279 --> 00:33:20.640
>> Thank you. >> No problem. Thank you for the question. >> Thank you. Um, as Anna had stated and most the council knows, uh, we were ordered to reval back in 2017. Um, but due to COVID, um, preparation of the tax

103
00:33:20.640 --> 00:33:37.519
maps, it's got delayed. So now we are finally, um, at the point where the tax maps are almost ready. We will be, um, putting a bid out to get a firm. Um, from the assessor, uh, he had reached out to other assessors and, um, firms

104
00:33:37.519 --> 00:33:55.600
that do this. It's anywhere, and this information was actually from last year, $100 to $150 per line item. So that's per parcel. Um we currently have just under 22,000 line items um in our tax

105
00:33:55.600 --> 00:34:10.639
duplicate. So that's kind of where that number came from. Uh his estimate was between 3.5 million and $4 million it would cost. So we went with the higher number. Obviously, if we don't need it, we would cancel it and that would be

106
00:34:10.639 --> 00:34:31.200
done. Um, but with a special emergency, the reval falls under a special emergency where we're allowed to pay it back over 5 years, but yes, it would come from >> the taxpayer, the general fund. >> Anyone else wish Anyone else wish to be

107
00:34:31.200 --> 00:34:53.520
heard on this particular item? Good evening. >> Hi, Bridget Lava. Um, my my concern is why is this considered an emergency fund? Uh, my understanding is this is something that has to happen periodically and should is this something that should be built in?

108
00:34:53.520 --> 00:35:10.079
Again, you know, you can't nail down an exact cost, but we we've known this has been coming for years. it's going to happen again at some point in the future and then again at some point in the future after that. Why is it an emergency versus something that would be

109
00:35:10.079 --> 00:35:27.280
planned for always? >> Unfortunately, I've I don't have that answer for you. When I came in, um I started the process on getting this done. Uh it's a as Dawn mentioned, it is a lengthy long process. It is something

110
00:35:27.280 --> 00:35:42.320
that should be planned for and after we get through this one it would be ideal for future planning to to start planning for these things. Uh but I don't have that answer but >> good point. >> It's been a good point. >> It's because it's been more than 20

111
00:35:42.320 --> 00:35:58.680
years and now that the county issued this they weren't doing it and now they started it with towns all over and actually's one of the first towns that they're doing it with. >> I believe our last reval Our

112
00:35:58.800 --> 00:36:19.040
last reval was in the 90 early 90s. >> Thank you. Is there anyone else in the public who wishes to come up and be heard? >> Your buddy. >> No. Okay. Seeing no one, then I will ask to close public portion. A motion. >> Move it. Second.

113
00:36:19.040 --> 00:36:35.839
>> Moved by Councilman Von Stettton. Second by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Belli. All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Hearing none. We'll now close the public hearing portion. >> Okay. Next is ordinance for first reading FR1. Wait to vote on it. >> I got to vote on I'm sorry, boy. I'm

114
00:36:35.839 --> 00:36:51.680
having a good night here. >> Okay. Do I have a motion? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Moved by Councilman Asatuli. Second by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dealama. >> Yes.

115
00:36:51.680 --> 00:37:08.960
>> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. Councilman Pasciddi, >> yes. >> Councilman Rosolei, >> yes. >> Councilman Von Staten, >> yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli, >> yes. And council president. Motion carries. >> Okay. Next is ordinance of first reading FR1. Ordinance adopting the Trekton

116
00:37:08.960 --> 00:37:25.839
Square redevelopment plan and amending the township zoning map. Do I have a motion? >> Why to order? >> Yes. >> Where is this? >> Summer. Summer's. Where is the >> It's the Summers property.

117
00:37:25.839 --> 00:37:41.040
>> Yeah, Summers property. >> Summers. >> Summers. >> Summers. Thank you. >> No problem. >> Wasn't in the backup. >> Yeah. >> Okay. No problem. >> The plan is up in the the plan is up on the website. >> Okay. The plan is up on the website, >> right?

118
00:37:41.040 --> 00:37:56.880
>> The plan is up on the website. >> It is back up. >> Yes. Yeah, you can find it there. >> Okay. >> All right. So, do I have a motion? >> Second. Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Bell. Second by councilman Pasci.

119
00:37:56.880 --> 00:38:12.320
>> Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. Yes. Councilman Dealama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasci. >> Yes. >> Councilman Rosolei. >> Yes. >> Councilman Vonstettton. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. >> Yes. >> And Council President Sohar. >> Yes.

120
00:38:12.320 --> 00:38:28.720
>> Motion carries. Public hearing set for June 23rd, 2026. >> Okay. Next will be our consent agenda. I'd like to get a motion and a second and then we'll go back for separations. >> Motion second. >> Motion by Councilman Asetuli. Second by

121
00:38:28.720 --> 00:38:44.320
Councilman Bonstatton. >> Councilman Acetuli. Any items for separation? >> No, thank you. >> Councilman Deal. >> C6. >> C6. Councilman Mwin. >> Yes, I have. Oh,

122
00:38:44.320 --> 00:38:59.680
>> wait. 12. >> C12. Councilman Pasitti. >> Uh 13, please. >> C13. Councilman Rosolei. >> C7. >> C7. Councilman Von Stettton.

123
00:38:59.680 --> 00:39:14.400
>> None. Thank you. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bella. >> Thank you. >> Council President Sohart. >> Yes. C5 and C6, please. >> Okay. So, we have a motion and a second. Um, can we have a a roll call for the

124
00:39:14.400 --> 00:39:30.480
balance of the consent agenda with the removal of C C5, C6, C7, C12, and C13? >> Okay. So, C7 is Dave. >> Yes. >> And the other one, >> C7 is Rosie, not. And what about the

125
00:39:30.480 --> 00:39:46.400
other one? >> Um, Dave was C12. >> Okay. >> As Councilman Pasi was C13 >> and C6. All right. That one. Yep. So, roll call. Councilman Asatuli, >> yes. >> Councilman Deama,

126
00:39:46.400 --> 00:40:01.359
>> yes. >> Councilman Merwin, >> yes. >> Councilman Pascitti, >> yes. >> Councilman Rosolei, >> yes. >> Councilman Von Stettton, >> yes. >> Council Vice President, Dr. Greenberg Bell, >> yes. >> And Council President Sohar, >> yes. >> Okay. Next will be C5. And the reason

127
00:40:01.359 --> 00:40:18.640
why I separated this is it's a resolution calling upon the state of New Jersey, the New Jersey Department of Treasury, the New Jersey legislature, healthc care regulators, insurance carriers, pharmacy benefit managers, and

128
00:40:18.640 --> 00:40:34.400
other appropriate entities to review and enact meaningful reform to address address unsustainable public employee health care costs impacting municipal principal and school district budgets. This was put on this evening by the

129
00:40:34.400 --> 00:40:51.040
administration and they would like to to address this. It's a very important topic. Thank you. So, uh, as I'm sure you all have heard because this is not only affecting the public sector but also the private sector. Health care costs have just risen through the roof.

130
00:40:51.040 --> 00:41:06.960
Um, we have felt it here at the township. The board of education has al also felt it. Um, private companies are also feeling it. And one of the things that uh we did this past year as the township in April, we switched over to a health insurance fund to try to

131
00:41:06.960 --> 00:41:23.040
alleviate a little bit of the cost. Um and we came out of the state health benefits program. Fortunately, the cost is still pretty high even with the private insurance through the health insurance fund. So our administration has still very much actively working to see what how we can reduce those costs

132
00:41:23.040 --> 00:41:40.160
for 27. In the meantime though, we uh wanted to prepare this resolution to send up to the state uh to share the concerns that we have for the rising health care costs for us, for board of eds, for the public at large, private companies, and things like that. I don't

133
00:41:40.160 --> 00:41:54.880
know that it will do anything, but we have to try uh through the managers uh the New Jersey managers association. Later this this summer, I will be meeting with members of the D at the DCA also to speak about the concerns that municipalities have. uh regarding rising

134
00:41:54.880 --> 00:42:10.240
health care costs because it affects us not just if you're on the state health benefits but even if when you're in private health insurance. So we need the state um and to work a little bit closer with the health insurance companies and see how we can alleviate those costs for everybody. This resolution is going to

135
00:42:10.240 --> 00:42:28.079
serve uh uh to show that we are very much trying to to get something done. Um we'll continue fighting for it. I'll go to Tren if I need to. Um, but uh I appreciate the council allowing me to put this resolution and hopefully they will feel favorable uh in favor of this

136
00:42:28.079 --> 00:42:44.880
resolution so that I can get it sent to to the parties mentioned on it. And um we'll continue trying to come up with solutions and ways to make uh healthc care more affordable for our employees um um the board of ed and and hopefully the public at large. So that's that.

137
00:42:44.880 --> 00:42:59.760
>> Thank you very much. I think that's a very good initiative and I really hope that everyone supports it. Um, I'd like to make a motion. >> Second. >> Motion by council vice president. So, council president Sohar, second by council vice president Dr. Greenberg

138
00:42:59.760 --> 00:43:16.000
Belli. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman Deama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. Yes. >> Councilman Pascitti. >> Yes. >> Councilman Rzolei. >> Yes. >> Councilman Von Stettton. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell. >> Yes. >> And Council President Sohar. Yes, motion

139
00:43:16.000 --> 00:43:31.760
carries. >> Thank you all. Uh, next is C6. I also separated that a resolution opposing Williams Transco's Northeast Supply Enhancement Project, NES. Again, this was asked by administration and we would

140
00:43:31.760 --> 00:43:47.040
like the administration would like to just give a brief overview of it. >> Thank you. And I believe Eric uh, Councilman the Palmer also had separated out two. Um before I speak, Eric, did you want to say did you please? Okay.

141
00:43:47.040 --> 00:44:04.560
>> Um so if you recall last August, um we the uh members of the Sierra Club, I believe at the time, had came out to the council meetings to advise us that the pipeline project from Transco was still kind of moving forward. It had been resurrect resurrected. Um so at the time

142
00:44:04.560 --> 00:44:21.520
I spoke with them. I also took the time to meet with Transco. I'm like, let me hear what they have to say about their project. So, we did that and after those meetings, we proposed um a resolution um back in August of 25 to oppose the project. Um you know, it it there is no

143
00:44:21.520 --> 00:44:36.960
benefit to the New Jersey residents whatsoever, but they're coming through our state to get to where they need to go. Um, I was recently informed um by several people as well as Councilman Merwin that this was something that now had gotten approval at the federal

144
00:44:36.960 --> 00:44:54.160
levels, I believe also New York State approvals and now is kind of lingering in New Jersey for their approvals. Um, so this is reiterating what we passed last year, which was that we're in opposition of it. Um, we we took the resolution. We we made it known that

145
00:44:54.160 --> 00:45:10.160
this really has no positive impact on the New Jersey residents. This is not going to help us. So, we want to make it known that when they do come through our town to do this project, we are still opposing this. They're not going to come out ask for our opinion, but we want to

146
00:45:10.160 --> 00:45:26.720
make sure that they know that Obridge opposed this. So, um, this is a similar resolution that, um, we wanted to bring forward. We'll be sending it up to to the governor's office uh if it is passed in favor this evening and um I appreciate council giving us time and

147
00:45:26.720 --> 00:45:45.200
also uh um for Councilman Merwin to um who alerted us but also for the Sierra Club who had reached out to me separately um to to also tell me that this was still actively going and if we can show support again. So talking with Mayor Walker and um we decided this

148
00:45:45.200 --> 00:46:01.200
would be good to show that we still oppose it. So >> Mr. >> No, I was just going to reiterate what what Anna said as well. I know last year we had a lot of conversations surrounding this and the fact that it will be coming from Raridan Bay and

149
00:46:01.200 --> 00:46:17.920
ultimately through Oldbridge. We opposed it last year, we're opposing it again this year. You know, things like this shouldn't just go without not only the public, but also the the public officials without we should have a say what happens through this town, right? Regardless of federal government, state

150
00:46:17.920 --> 00:46:34.640
government, local government should also and the local residents should have a say whether or not we have a meth I think it's a methane gas line if I'm not mistaken coming through. >> Yeah. Um, so to have that coming through this town without us having a say and a

151
00:46:34.640 --> 00:46:52.440
seat at the table is ridiculous. And the fact that, you know, this is why we're here to to oppose this for now the second time in less than a year. >> Mayor, >> we need a motion. >> Yes. >> Um, who are we addressing this to?

152
00:46:52.800 --> 00:47:09.040
>> The governor. The governor. It's going to the governor. >> My understanding FK already approved it. The New York D already approved it and the New Jersey D already approved it. Correct. The only one that can stop it is the governor. >> Correct. >> And we're just reiterating >> and and I'm sure that would come with a

153
00:47:09.040 --> 00:47:24.880
very big legal expense if she did. But >> and we're just reiterating and reinforcing what we voted on last year. >> Right. >> I just have to ask a question. Does anyone here know where New Jersey gets its gas, natural gas from? Does it come

154
00:47:24.880 --> 00:47:40.000
through another place still before it gets to New Jersey? >> If it does, it doesn't come through that pipeline because this one's rock way in New Jersey. >> Get to get the gas to New Jersey. How does it get to New Jersey >> from Texas all the way through all the

155
00:47:40.000 --> 00:47:56.560
other states up in us? We got a pumping station there on on um >> Okay. What do you call >> those states agree with them to go through their states to get gas to us, but we're not allowing or agreeing with gas to get to the part in New York where

156
00:47:56.560 --> 00:48:11.839
they have to get it? >> No. >> No, it's not for New York. >> Yeah. Where's it going? >> It's It's going to New England. >> All right. To New England. It has to go. Which >> it's coming from Rock Away under the under the water. >> Do you understand what I'm saying? >> I understand what you're saying. >> That's what I'm saying.

157
00:48:11.839 --> 00:48:26.960
>> You have to be realistic. You have to get you have to get the gas from where it's available and get it to different sections of the United States. It's not that no one likes it, but it's the reality of the 2026. They have the gas.

158
00:48:26.960 --> 00:48:42.480
>> Okay. >> All right. Yes, Mr. Pasci. >> Yeah. Well, I I I'm going to vote no because um I think we should be a team player. Uh and we should be thinking about our neighbor neighbor 50 other, you know, 49 other states that need

159
00:48:42.480 --> 00:48:57.520
pipelines, you know, whether they come through or not. Now, should we get some money uh from the gas company? Yeah, I think we should get some money from them, but you know, being neighborly, I think we should approve it. Thank you.

160
00:48:57.520 --> 00:49:14.079
>> Okay. Anyone else? >> Nope. Okay. Seeing no hands, then I'll ask for a motion. >> Move it. Second. >> Moved by Councilman De Palama. Second by Councilman Vonstettton. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman De Palama.

161
00:49:14.079 --> 00:49:29.680
>> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasitti. >> No. >> Councilman Rosolei. >> Yes. >> Councilman von Stanton. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. >> Abstain. >> And Council President Sohar. >> Yes.

162
00:49:29.680 --> 00:49:45.839
>> Motion carries. >> Okay. All right. So next is C7, Mr. Rizzolei. >> Thank you, Council President. I think we all can agree preservation open space is important, but this is a potential another tax on the residents

163
00:49:45.839 --> 00:50:00.720
and under the current economy. We've had a municipal tax increase, board of ed tax increase, state mandated utilities tax increase. We've heard about healthcare, the cost of living, just the overall economy. You know, this would have been nice to revisit maybe next

164
00:50:00.720 --> 00:50:16.640
year. I do support it. I just think the timing unfortunately is not good. So I can in good conscious support this. I think there's a lot of people out there struggling and probably couldn't afford another tax. You know, we all agree about open space, but at the end of the day, people's quality of life is also

165
00:50:16.640 --> 00:50:33.839
important in their economics of finances. So, you know, I wasn't here to comment on it last meeting, so I just wanted to be heard on it. Thank you. >> Okay. Anyone else have a comment? Mr. Pasitti. >> Yeah. Well, I uh I'm in support of this because I um I think that we should

166
00:50:33.839 --> 00:50:49.839
allow the people of Oldbridge to vote whether they want it or not. I don't want to sit up here and be pompous and say no, I'm not going to allow the people to vote. I say let them vote. You know, I mean, you know, if there's a lot

167
00:50:49.839 --> 00:51:06.480
of complaints about open space, and the only way to gain this back this open space is to buy it and we as a town can't afford it. So, we'll put it out to a vote for people to decide whether they would like it or not. >> Um, yeah, real quick. I didn't say about

168
00:51:06.480 --> 00:51:21.680
not putting out the vote. I just said I want to be supported because of people because of the current economy. Of course, I want people to vote on it. I never never came out of my mouth I didn't want anybody to vote on it. Thank you. >> Yeah. Um I there's nothing to talk about. Pretty much the taxpayers should have

169
00:51:21.680 --> 00:51:41.200
the right to vote. That's one thing as Americans that we do have, right? We have the right to vote. So it should be in your hands cuz the taxpayers come first. It's pretty simple, right? And if how Anybody know how much that would be per resident? >> For how long? For how long?

170
00:51:41.200 --> 00:51:59.240
>> $30 for the whole year. >> I I was ma'am. Ma'am, I was asking her. Thank you. Appreciate it, though. No, no, no. No comments from out here, >> please. What are you saying now? >> About $30. >> $30 a year. >> Okay. All right. Thanks.

171
00:51:59.680 --> 00:52:14.640
>> I would just like to say is once the land is gone, it's gone. >> You're not going to buy be able to buy land anywhere. And this is going on. We used to have an open space tax and it sunset it. They let it sunset under um

172
00:52:14.640 --> 00:52:31.040
Jimmy Phillips when he was mayor. Not only that, we send money to the county, an open space tax. Please look at your tax bill. The amount of money that we spend to Middle Sex County for them to buy open space, but they're not buying it in Obridge. They're buying it at

173
00:52:31.040 --> 00:52:48.000
other places. How is that fair? Our money is going to the to the county and they're spending us. Not only that, we cannot be partners with the county or the state unless we do have an open space trust fund to do that. So that's why this is really important and I would

174
00:52:48.000 --> 00:53:04.960
like to say we just heard it's not that much but if you don't have money you can't buy land and if you don't have a person who wants to sell their land also you can't buy the land. But the real important thing if you look totally around the state you think about all the

175
00:53:04.960 --> 00:53:21.440
money that is wasted that is not benefiting each and every one of you out here and you say where can they make cuts also we have made cuts we are rated double A1 by an outside company that is saying

176
00:53:21.440 --> 00:53:38.400
that we are financially responsible here that we are doing a good job. If you look at the amount of money that has increased, you know why it's increased? Because of the state, the state with the energy grids that they took away and the cost more for power. Now they closed the

177
00:53:38.400 --> 00:53:54.240
nuclear power plant. What we're paying more for power. Not only that, what we're paying um for gas there. New Jersey never used to have a gas tax. Now we do. Every gallon that you buy, 50 cents goes to the state. 50 cents. So

178
00:53:54.240 --> 00:54:09.839
with that, they can give back money. The state just took away money from seniors. Instead of you getting $6,000 back on fixed income and seniors, now you're getting $4,000. So, I have no idea what they're doing this money, but I'm sure that we could we could come up with the

179
00:54:09.839 --> 00:54:26.880
money and preserve land because when it's gone, it's gone. And we all want to preserve open space when we can. And so this really this would behoove all of us to really look at this and consider that this has a value for everybody. So we

180
00:54:26.880 --> 00:54:44.480
appreciate you to look at this strongly, ask questions, evaluate it, and then in November vote for the open space tax cuz we've had it and I said that it was sense all these years if it stayed in place, we would had money building up and as land came available, we could we

181
00:54:44.480 --> 00:54:59.920
could have bought it. So, that's the situation unfortunately that we're at now and um so we're going out to the public so you do have a say in it and so that you understand it and hopefully we get this done. Thank you. >> And one more thing, look, this is our

182
00:54:59.920 --> 00:55:15.440
town. You all came here because you have something you're concerned about. Well, guess what? You guys come first, not the state. This is Old Bridge. You don't just put things on us because they say so. We're not going to stand here and get abused by the state. So, at the end

183
00:55:15.440 --> 00:55:32.400
of the day, please go out and vote. Get educated on it because we totally believe it'll benefit this town. Don't let the state dictate what happens in Obridge because we do a really good job. We're fiscally responsible and like Anita said, we have a double A Moody rating and we do pretty well. So, please

184
00:55:32.400 --> 00:55:47.839
educate yourself on it and make sure that we always know one thing. Our taxpayers actually and come first and one second, please. We're gonna have some decorum tonight. You can't speak out of line. You can't yell from the back. You can't just speak. You'll have your time to come up. You got to have

185
00:55:47.839 --> 00:56:04.400
respect when you come here. You have to have respect when you come here. Okay? There's a lot of people here. You have an opportunity to talk. You will, but don't be screaming out of line because that's not the right thing to do. Okay. Thank you. >> All right. Is there any other council member? Anyone else want to add something? Mr. Dalama?

186
00:56:04.400 --> 00:56:20.960
>> Yeah. Just I support this. I think what what doesn't happen a lot is the residents don't get to directly vote on any additional levy that would happen on them. This is unique, right? Uh in November, you'll be able to go to the polls and decide for yourself whether

187
00:56:20.960 --> 00:56:38.559
you want this levy. So, as we move forward, should this levy pass, we'll have the money and we'll be able to get an additional funding from the from the county, from the state with this. So we can look at those parcels of land that we could purchase, make into parks or just keep as open land, right? Then this

188
00:56:38.559 --> 00:56:54.799
is looking at it to in the totality of this town. There's still a lot of open space in this township. It may not seem that way, but there is a lot. I believe it's somewhere along the lines of 40 plus% of this township is undeveloped. Right? The only way that we can get a

189
00:56:54.799 --> 00:57:11.040
hold of that is by having a levy to go and partner with the the county to get some of that funding, utilize the funding from this as well as the funding from the county in order to grab some of that land before it's taken by someone privately and then ultimately them

190
00:57:11.040 --> 00:57:25.440
trying to to build on top of it. Th this one this one thing is an important step forward to ensure that we can preserve some of the the township in the way that it is today so it doesn't get into a

191
00:57:25.440 --> 00:57:45.760
more overdeveloped po um township. >> It's but as far as this goes you know the county it's mandated what we pay. We don't have a say in how much open space we have to pay to them. you know, an open space tax. And that's tough because

192
00:57:45.760 --> 00:58:02.319
like Dr. Greenberg said, if we don't have a matching fund, we're just putting our money in someone else's area. And that really makes me, you know, makes me upset. We we spend a lot of money. And this is something like Mr. Japa said, you can vote on yourself. You can decide

193
00:58:02.319 --> 00:58:17.359
for yourself. And when it's time, if we do have the funds, then there will be a public meeting too on how to to utilize this money. people will have a say in it. I you know I think this is the best thing we could do for ourselves is try

194
00:58:17.359 --> 00:58:32.160
to help ourselves and none of us I mean all of us are struggling none of us have extra money to just you know put out but for that kind of an amount of money to ensure our future you know some of this land could also then be uh assigned for

195
00:58:32.160 --> 00:58:47.839
um ka you know for the h affordable housing we need to make sure that we're protected and we protect the future of old bridge here and it's not an easy task when you have no open space trust fund. So, I really hope that people

196
00:58:47.839 --> 00:59:04.720
don't get mired down in uh social media and oh, this is what's going to happen. No, we're asking you to decide for yourselves what you think you want to do and hopefully you'll want to come along with us and do this. If you don't, then

197
00:59:04.720 --> 00:59:22.319
that's that's what's going to happen in so it's not anything, you know, sneaky or anything. just come and vote and if you have any questions you can contact the mayor's office, you can contact any one of us. This hopefully is something that goes beyond all the political back

198
00:59:22.319 --> 00:59:38.480
and forth. This is for so please keep that in mind and don't let you know social media right away you know cloud what's going on. Come here, come to the meeting and ask the questions yourself. This is a big one. It really really is.

199
00:59:38.480 --> 00:59:55.440
And I hopefully I mean I'm older now so I don't know what my future how long but I know I have a grandchild living in Old Bridge that's four. I would love for him to stay here for the rest of you know his days growing up here and grow up in the kind of Old Bridge that my children

200
00:59:55.440 --> 01:00:11.440
grew up in. We need to keep this open space. So please just just think really long and hard and try not to make it into something that's either A or B. Just just really think hard about it. Thank you. Anyone else have anything? Mayor, you want to add something? >> No, >> I just don't know if they know to be

201
01:00:11.440 --> 01:00:27.920
clear that this is just letting it go on the ballot for the voters to decide. We're not putting the levy on you. If you vote it down, then there's not going to be But like they had said, if we don't do this, we're not going to get matching funds from the state and the county. You do pay an open space. I

202
01:00:27.920 --> 01:00:44.799
believe it's two cents you pay to the county on and it's not >> more than that. No, no, I'm saying open just the open space fund. it's mandatory and we're not going to get the money back. And I know we want to preserve the land, but we don't have the money. Uh it's expensive to buy land and

203
01:00:44.799 --> 01:01:02.319
unfortunately these builders come in and they offer the farmers a lot of money which we can't match and it's very hard to preserve space right now and is very desirable, but we don't own a lot of this land. Um like councilman um said that 40% of is not built out. So we want

204
01:01:02.319 --> 01:01:17.280
to try to preserve as much as this can. And this is not be a political thing. This is just to preserve open space in Oldbridge. So you could read it and I think believe it's $30 per year for a household. So I hope you consider it.

205
01:01:17.280 --> 01:01:33.599
>> Yeah, please. Okay. Anyone else? Are we good? Okay. So then I'll ask for a motion. >> Okay. Moved by Councilman Von Stettton. Second by Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. Yes. >> Councilman Dealama. >> Yes.

206
01:01:33.599 --> 01:01:51.640
>> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. Councilman Pasci, >> yes. >> Councilman Rosie, >> yes. >> Councilman von Stettton, >> yes. >> Council Vice President, Dr. Greenberg Belli, >> yes. >> And Council President Sohar, >> yes. Motion carries. >> Okay, next will be C12, Mr. Merwin.

207
01:01:56.559 --> 01:02:13.680
>> I don't know who would answer this question. >> Okay. >> Did we have that many tax appeals? We we do have a couple um big appeals that are finally been going to court and stuff this year. So that's why the increase has been up. Typically over the last few years, uh the contract for this

208
01:02:13.680 --> 01:02:29.839
tax council was about 50,000. The last two years it had gone down. This year it's an upear. So we just have to increase the contract. >> Yeah. >> Okay. That's all. I'll move it if nobody else has any. >> Yeah. It's always a worry, you know, with the the appeals. >> Okay. So do you make motion?

209
01:02:29.839 --> 01:02:44.400
>> Yeah, I made it. >> Okay. Second. >> Second by Councilman Dealma. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dealama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasci. >> Yes. >> Councilman Rosi. >> Yes. >> Councilman Von Stettton. >> Yes.

210
01:02:44.400 --> 01:03:01.359
>> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell. >> Yes. >> And Council President Sohart. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> C13. Mr. Peskitti. >> Okay. Yes. Um, as most of you know, I'm on the housing authority and I

211
01:03:01.359 --> 01:03:16.720
I hear firsthand complaints about how these management companies, not all of them, but a good portion treat the senior citizens. They treat them like

212
01:03:16.720 --> 01:03:34.079
garbage. You know, one story was this 90 yearear-old woman didn't have any heat and they told her to get a space heater. You know, now this may or may not have anything to do with it, but I think that when we

213
01:03:34.079 --> 01:03:50.799
decide to go into an agreement with um another senior housing, we should have something in the contract that gives us a little bit of teeth >> that they will treat the people like human beings with some dignity.

214
01:03:50.799 --> 01:04:04.880
you know, these people are at the end of their lives, you know, and they just want to be retired and live in Old Bridge and live in a nice place. So now this um these folks are going to renovate that whole development there,

215
01:04:04.880 --> 01:04:20.400
which is really nice. It's great. Um, but I I would like to table it because um I would like to look at the contract and see if we can put something in the contract that will add some sort of

216
01:04:20.400 --> 01:04:35.839
strength for us um that they may have to come before us if they're not treating their people correctly. You know, it's it's bad. You know, we may not hear about it, but I do.

217
01:04:35.839 --> 01:04:52.640
So, just um just I I don't know if anything can be added to the contract, but just so you know, you did mention um the company is looking to make about 13 million or over $13 million in worth of renovations to the 100 Tyown existing

218
01:04:52.640 --> 01:05:07.599
building. As you know, it's 100% affordable uh age restricted housing. Uh um so it's all seniors. um they are about three to four units uh that are also uh for um people with disabilities and things like that. So they're looking

219
01:05:07.599 --> 01:05:23.280
to make $13.7 million in renovations which comes out to about $67,000 worth of renovations per unit. Looking to put new roof in, new AC and heating systems. And I agree and you know me, I love my seniors. I worked with them for a long

220
01:05:23.280 --> 01:05:39.119
time. So I'm a big advocate for them. So, if I didn't think that this was something that would benefit them, I wouldn't agree. Now, the reason that they need this financial agreement with us is because in order to be able to do this project, they will need to get funding from the state. So, they'll be

221
01:05:39.119 --> 01:05:55.760
going to the state to get funding through all the different programs that the state offers for um uh these types of buildings that are 100% affordable. So, in order for that to happen, this needs to happen. I understand your concern. I can certainly we can certainly speak with them and you know

222
01:05:55.760 --> 01:06:12.319
reiterate that uh if you choose to table it that's obviously up to the council and we can bring those concerns to them. Um but that's what this is for. This is for them to really take the building, upgrade it, redo every single unit is going to get redone. It's going to

223
01:06:12.319 --> 01:06:29.680
include um painting, new light fixtures, new flooring, bathrooms, um lowflow toilets, uh new walk-in uh showers, kitchens, um in a lot of sight work. They need to do the complete parking lot, the sidewalks, everything there. As

224
01:06:29.680 --> 01:06:44.480
you probably see, a lot of people walk from there to the uh shopping center right there up the up the road. So, um this is to to do those improvements and in order for them to be able to do that and to apply for this funding through the state um and there they need to be

225
01:06:44.480 --> 01:07:04.160
able to um have this in place. So, >> yeah. >> I just want to say how old you have to be to get in because it just sounds fantastic the way you're putting it. I'm just saying it's just absolutely beautiful and I do believe based on the way that she researches it, she dives so deep. She strikes oil and I know 100%

226
01:07:04.160 --> 01:07:20.720
she wouldn't put it out here if it wasn't going to be something good for the community cuz we have silver linings if I'm not mistaken. It's probably one of the best senior facilities in all of New Jersey. So, um thank you for the clarification, Tony. Obviously, thank you for your concern. Um >> and and I I appreciate you bringing the

227
01:07:20.720 --> 01:07:36.480
concerns to to the forefront because it is a common concerns when it comes to senior housings, uh assisted living facilities, you know, nursing homes. That's that's a common concern. Um, so this I'm hoping that this is what will take them in the right direction uh to

228
01:07:36.480 --> 01:07:51.920
upgrade the building, make those improvements so people can age in place in a in a good way, you know, that they're not just afterthoughts. Um, and I, you know, I hope that this will keep them uh honest and keep them going to that direction and hopefully they will be able to get the funding that they

229
01:07:51.920 --> 01:08:09.359
need to to to do this. >> Do you know when they want to start? I I mean as soon as they are able to get the funding. So and they're looking to get this so that they can get their applications in for the loans and and everything else. So I understand Mr. Pascetti's frustration because he does

230
01:08:09.359 --> 01:08:25.679
get the complaints and because these management companies that have been put in place at some of these buildings which we have all gone to and then they complain to us where we don't have any control of it and then with the housing associate your hands are tied. So, I think we have to come up with a way that

231
01:08:25.679 --> 01:08:42.560
there's some input and some um oversight. You know, this is for the funding to get it done. Yes, we'll help them with that, but at the same time, there has to be a conversation. Where do we go from here? >> Okay, we can certainly have the conversation. I'm actually going to ask Vina to come up also and talk a little

232
01:08:42.560 --> 01:08:56.880
bit about this because she's been working on this with me as well. >> Vina Swan is our township planner. >> Good evening, Vina. >> Good evening, council. I just wanted to chime in. Um, this project is critical

233
01:08:56.880 --> 01:09:13.440
to us uh because it is helping us address a major chunk of our fourth round affordable housing obligation. I have been working with these developers because it so happened that we had our

234
01:09:13.440 --> 01:09:30.880
plan in place and out of the blue I got a request from this developer that they need a letter of support from the township council because they're applying for NJHMFA lowincome housing tax credits. If you recall, WISTA at

235
01:09:30.880 --> 01:09:47.199
Oldbridge, which was the 100% municipally sponsored project, also applied for similar tax credits. They based on those requirements, they do need the pilot. The entire upgrade is going to be roughly 10 to 13 million.

236
01:09:47.199 --> 01:10:01.840
There is going to be significant. Now, I've I've seen pictures of the upgrades that are being proposed like the bathrooms are renovated, the um kitchenets are renovated. There is going to be a computer room, an exercise room.

237
01:10:01.840 --> 01:10:19.280
So, there is going to be significant improvements. But I think it's critical to have them get this instead of tableabling it because we are on a tight deadline with our housing plan as well. Uh we are still negotiating. I think we

238
01:10:19.280 --> 01:10:35.120
are in the right place because this was one project that came last minute. Uh Joe, myself had to work extremely hard and Mark to uh try to work with Fair Housing Center to see if we can get credits on this one because

239
01:10:35.120 --> 01:10:51.840
this project is part of our second round obligation. This was funded through HUD with section 8. But now this developer who bought the project only in 2018 after the affordability controls had

240
01:10:51.840 --> 01:11:08.560
expired wants to add new affordability controls which will take us for next 40 years. So a and simultaneously so they'll still continue to be under HUD but they are also applying for the low-income housing tax credits that

241
01:11:08.560 --> 01:11:27.760
makes us eligible for 203 um credits for next round. So imagine out of the 673 we are addressing our obligation through these units that are already there and they are only updating it. So I think this uh and again this is

242
01:11:27.760 --> 01:11:43.440
not like a regular pilot because typically um the regular pilots that are established under the redevelopment law you have taxation based on the improvements that are proposed. In this case it's based on land and the

243
01:11:43.440 --> 01:12:00.000
improvements. Um most of the times the percentage that is offered by developers is 6.28%. They're offering a 7.5%. I think the group has been working greatly with us because we needed a lot

244
01:12:00.000 --> 01:12:17.280
of documentation and support from them just to get these credits and get qualified by fair housing center and special educator. If there is something in the agreement we can work on at the later stage, I think they would be amenable to working with us. But uh I

245
01:12:17.280 --> 01:12:33.440
think this uh getting this is quite critical uh with the timing. So I would if there are any further questions I can answer. >> Thank you Vina. I I I agree with Vina and I will I made a note of this and I am going to speak with them about adding that but I I appreciate you following up

246
01:12:33.440 --> 01:12:48.960
on the affordable housing. >> I think the most important thing is what Vina is addressing is the fact that it's taking about 30% of our obligations coming up. >> Right. So, I think a lot of folks have heard us talk about the affordable housing mandate that comes down and how it works. So, for every affordable unit

247
01:12:48.960 --> 01:13:04.800
that gets put in, they'll put three market rates in, right? So, for every unit that we put in, so really times that by four, that's how many units that a developer will need to build in order for them to say that they're affordable, uh, that they're profitable. So, that's

248
01:13:04.800 --> 01:13:20.560
what the state allows. We they allow up to 20% of us to mandate them for affordable housing. with here we're taking and not only we're adding the 200 that is already built. So this was built back in the 80s >> 83 it was 83 1983

249
01:13:20.560 --> 01:13:36.239
>> 43 years ago we're taking something that was built 43 years ago and now we're reusing they're repurposing it getting it to the up to current standards and also taking that additional build off of >> the township's plate. So similar to this

250
01:13:36.239 --> 01:13:52.159
is what happened with Tom's River this year. They had a lot of these come up and they were able to able to add them on to this round. This is a this is a win for us. I think that's the most important thing about this portion of it is the fact that it not only adds this it's it's going to help those seniors

251
01:13:52.159 --> 01:14:08.320
that that live in there by upgrading the units, but it's also going to take 200 affordable units off of our mandate, but an additional um 800 units in total. >> And that is what I wanted. So because uh

252
01:14:08.320 --> 01:14:23.520
people who have been following up on the affordable housing obligation or the fourth round, right, we had eight objectives and um these 200 units have helped us push away or dictate

253
01:14:23.520 --> 01:14:41.360
development on some of the um uh objector sites because we were in a position to say no that you can't build X amount. We want you to reduce it down to X. But it was only because we found these 203 credits that we can use. And

254
01:14:41.360 --> 01:14:58.400
it's not just those credits. There are two special needs housing credits. We get two on two bonus on those. So in terms and plus you get credits on age restricted housing. Although we are capped at the bonus credits on age

255
01:14:58.400 --> 01:15:14.480
restricted these age restricted bonus credits can be used towards our fifth round. So the plan we have been working on we will have surplus credits that will be carried on to the next round. So it's not just the 203 credits but excess

256
01:15:14.480 --> 01:15:30.080
credits that we can carry >> by four those 200 units. That's 800. That's a lot. >> People don't understand that. >> I mean 800 is a lot to have >> able to not have to build. That's a ton. >> I just want to say Vina thank you so

257
01:15:30.080 --> 01:15:46.640
much for your clarification. Eric, thank you so much for clarifying. I do think that I think what Tony um what you were bringing up really is and and thank you both of you is morally we don't want our seniors to get abused >> and they are >> and we can't allow that to happen. So

258
01:15:46.640 --> 01:16:01.840
listen I back you 100% and I know Anna will definitely bring it up and we got to make sure that they're taken care of. So from a moral high ground, thank you so much and Eric and Vina, thank you so much for the clarification on the housing. I really appreciate it. Anybody? >> So, what's the likelihood that they'll add something into this contract if we

259
01:16:01.840 --> 01:16:17.600
agree to it tonight? >> I'll reach out to Jennifer. We we >> Okay, thanks. >> Thank you. >> Of course. >> Real simple. The attorney's sitting here. Can we add something to this that gives us a liaison

260
01:16:17.600 --> 01:16:33.920
>> and and we and we get past this right now cuz great things and it's all great things that we're going to get to 200. this is a good thing. >> But more important is what Tony has brought up and if there's a problem there that's what we need to address. So if we can just add a little caveat to

261
01:16:33.920 --> 01:16:49.840
that contract that says uh let's have a liaison and >> you can't unilaterally do it right. I mean >> I I think it's something that could be approached right and um >> I just don't know how far it could go.

262
01:16:49.840 --> 01:17:05.360
Uh, in other words, I I don't think that you can put something in the contract that would be acceptable to these folks that want to do this that says that um if somebody has a complaint about something, there's going to be penalties or

263
01:17:05.360 --> 01:17:22.159
whatever the case may be. I don't think it's a bad idea to add something that they'll be a lay on that's appointed uh by council um for complaints. Um, now look, if if if things got so bad that

264
01:17:22.159 --> 01:17:37.360
that you could the inhabitants could file suit against the owner of the place, I mean, ultimately that's what you would have to do. Um, but if you want to if uh I can talk to Mark and uh

265
01:17:37.360 --> 01:17:54.480
certainly approach uh these folks about putting something in there. I don't know how long that would take, but I think by delaying it, we delay the whole process and that's the concern because these guys, they can't get financing without this moving forward. And so the longer

266
01:17:54.480 --> 01:18:11.280
the delay, you know how that goes. and and finances. Uh, you know, I don't know this company. I I know that uh Mr. Rosselli's uh been working with them and with our engineering and uh and Vina um

267
01:18:11.280 --> 01:18:27.120
I think that they they could sit down and discuss something, you know, a sidebar to this without without >> derailing the whole >> tableabling this tonight because of the implications it could have for financing. But that's something that the, you know, council's going to have to decide.

268
01:18:27.120 --> 01:18:42.480
>> All right. Well, C Kenny, we have nothing now. So, even if we had something, I think it's a step in the right direction, >> right? >> I don't disagree with you. I'm just saying this, but I, you know, I want some effort. >> I agree. >> Right. >> I don't have a problem with that. I I'll

269
01:18:42.480 --> 01:18:59.040
convey that to Mr. Rosselli uh tomorrow when I see him and uh we'll go from there. We'll try to um get something moving quickly. >> Okay. With that, I'll move it. ation would be that we don't we don't look at it from this specific >> property. It should be for all properties.

270
01:18:59.040 --> 01:19:15.280
>> Agreed. >> Yeah, I think you're right. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Seconded. >> Okay. >> So, we had a motion from um Councilman Peskitti. Second by >> Councilman Astatuli. >> Roll call. Councilman Asatuli.

271
01:19:15.280 --> 01:19:30.080
>> Yes. >> Councilman De Palama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasitti. >> Yes. Yes. >> Councilman Rosolei. >> Yes. >> Councilman Bon Stettton. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Belli. >> Yes. >> And Council President Sohart. >> Yes.

272
01:19:30.080 --> 01:19:46.440
>> Eight yeses. Motion carries. >> Okay. All right. Next will be discussion items. Discussion regarding data centers in the township of Old Bridge. Councilman Merwin. >> Yes.

273
01:19:46.480 --> 01:20:03.280
>> Data centers. Boy, have they changed dramatically over the past 25 years. In the years following September 11 attacks, many organizations, especially financial institutions, focused on building backup data centers in separate

274
01:20:03.280 --> 01:20:18.719
locations so operation could quickly continue in a major disruption of if a major disruption occurred. The primary goal was business continuity and disaster recovery. >> Any information? Today's AI data centers

275
01:20:18.719 --> 01:20:34.560
serve as a very different p purpose. Rather than acting mainly as backup facilities, they function as largecale computing factories >> designed to process enormous amount of data and powerful artificial

276
01:20:34.560 --> 01:20:50.159
intelligence systems. As a result, they require different architectures, significantly more electrical power, advanced cooling systems, faster networking, and locations chosen for access to abundant power and

277
01:20:50.159 --> 01:21:06.719
infrastructure rather than simple simply uh geographic uh separation. In simple terms, yesterday's data centers were built to protect and preserve information, while today's AI data centers are built to create intelligence through massive

278
01:21:06.719 --> 01:21:21.520
computational processing. Data centers have changed and grown rapidly, but local and state zoning laws have not kept pace. It's at the same time it's still unclear whether our community has the

279
01:21:21.520 --> 01:21:38.719
infrastructure needed to support the large amounts of electricity and water that these facilities require. A midsize financial data center typically uses about 10 to 20 megawws of power. By comparison, a midsize AI data

280
01:21:38.719 --> 01:21:56.719
center can use 50 to 150 megawws, which is approximately 5 to 10 times more electricity. The difference in water use is also significant. A midsize financial data center may use about a 100 million gallons of water a year,

281
01:21:56.719 --> 01:22:12.320
while a midsize AI data center can use about 1.8 billion gallons of water annually, roughly 10 to 20 times more. before approving these facilities is important to determine whether our

282
01:22:12.320 --> 01:22:29.719
community can sustainably provide the power and re water resources they require. So the reason I I brought it up, it's my recommendation that we pass a resolution of moratorum to PREVENT

283
01:22:38.000 --> 01:22:54.719
to prevent any AI databases for a period of three years, to allow our zoning laws to catch up and to and to investigate whether we can sustain the electric and water consumption that these created uh that these centers utilize. Now, it's

284
01:22:54.719 --> 01:23:12.239
not my intention to try to pass a zoning change, all right, which will take all kinds of time. My intention is to put a stop to it right now to protect the township from Old Bridge from anybody being able to

285
01:23:12.239 --> 01:23:38.080
come in and put an application in for an AI data center. LISTEN, all this material is all AI. All right? It's all AI. No matter what you do today is AI, but that doesn't

286
01:23:38.080 --> 01:23:58.080
mean that it's got to be in the township of Old Bridge. >> Right. water 1.8 billion gallons of water. That is 23 of the water that the

287
01:23:58.080 --> 01:24:15.199
households in Oldbridge currently use. I that is unbelievable. And then once it gets used and it gets back into the groundwater or wherever it goes, it's contaminated. Not contaminated, it's tainted.

288
01:24:15.199 --> 01:24:33.800
All right. So, now it's going back into the surface waters and getting involved with our water and stuff. The electricity, the amount of electricity needed to power these things. Not that those telephone poles that are going up all over the place mean anything. Um

289
01:24:33.920 --> 01:24:50.560
the the it causes your bills to go up and you're seeing it. You're going to see it now. Your electric is going skyhigh. Why? All right. So, I'm not asking

290
01:24:50.560 --> 01:25:05.840
for a zoning change. I'm asking we pump the brakes, we go and investigate this, and then we go from there because, believe me, I have a whole page here of the the pros, too. And it's only thing

291
01:25:05.840 --> 01:25:22.560
it is is money. >> All right? But I got a bunch of pages that say this is not the thing to do in old breaking. Talk about noise. Low frequency noise. Take the the facility. If they were to

292
01:25:22.560 --> 01:25:38.239
use one of these new warehouses, which are big enough to put a an AI center in, if if you you take a dot and go three and a half miles or in the circum, you know, at around, you put it down in the Lawrence Harbor,

293
01:25:38.239 --> 01:25:52.880
it'll put it out in the South old Bridge, it'll put it down in Marboro, it'll put it up in the serville because that's three and a half miles as the crow flies, not three and a half miles as you got to drive your car. All right. And that's where that low frequency

294
01:25:52.880 --> 01:26:10.960
noise is going to go to. So I think we it we we should you know respectfully take a little step back put a moratorum in place and uh we go from there. If we decide we want it and we got all the

295
01:26:10.960 --> 01:26:25.600
things in place that'll be the thing to do. If not you know well then you know that's what we got. But that that is that is my that is why I uh put this up.

296
01:26:25.600 --> 01:26:46.719
>> All right. Thank you. >> Hey Dave, I have a few questions. Um what are the pros and the cons of data centers? >> What are the pros? >> I heard all the cons. I just want to know. I know you put it up. >> Oh, I did. I tell you what the pro was. >> Can you give me a few?

297
01:26:46.719 --> 01:27:02.320
>> Yeah, I tell you what the pro is. Money. >> Except there's the money. Nope. Anything else? >> Money. >> Okay. >> No. No. Hold up. But listen. No, no, no, no, no. Let him speak. Go ahead, Dave. >> That That's what it is. It's money. It comes down to money. >> That's about it. >> Okay. >> Let me let me ask you a question. No

298
01:27:02.320 --> 01:27:16.639
question. >> Give me meaningful meaningful local benefits. >> It's, you know, it it'll tell you jobs. That'll give you the construction jobs, but afterwards it's very low. >> Okay. >> All right. >> Ladies and gentlemen, let him speak. Let

299
01:27:16.639 --> 01:27:39.360
him speak. Especially in a IN especially in a low to medium size facility. Even a large size only has 100 employees and that's just to maintain everything and go on from there. Um tax revenue of course

300
01:27:39.360 --> 01:27:56.320
>> that's the money property and pilots >> and who does that benefit? Huh? Well, listen. >> I'm just asking the question. I'm just asking. I want to know. I'm I'm curious. That's >> You know where it goes. >> No, I'm asking. I'm asking you. You brought it up. So, we want to know >> that'll go against the taxes against it.

301
01:27:56.320 --> 01:28:12.719
>> So, it'll go against it or would it benefit the town? >> Well, it would be a benefit to the town. >> So So, what do you think it would do? How would it benefit the town, ladies and gentlemen? Please, how would it benefit the town? >> Everybody. >> Well, we would hopefully that it would reduce it. >> What would it reduce, David? >> But that is the tradeoff.

302
01:28:12.719 --> 01:28:27.520
>> What would it reduce? All those negatives are the tradeoff. That's why I'm asking let's pump the brakes. All right. Let's pump the brakes. Let's put a moratorum in place. And it doesn't have to be 3 years. It could be a year.

303
01:28:27.520 --> 01:28:43.360
We can then we can One second. One second, ladies and gentlemen. No. No. One other thing, Dave. So, here's a question. So, are they built above ground or underneath the ground? >> Are they what? >> They above ground or do they built underneath? I just I'm curious. >> You guys came to get educated. I'm asking.

304
01:28:43.360 --> 01:28:58.480
>> They're built in above ground. They're built. >> All of them are built above ground. Okay. >> And do you know exactly where they're being built in Oakidge? >> No, we don't know. But we do know that there's two places. >> Ladies and gentlemen, we got to have some decorum. Attorney, please. >> Go ahead.

305
01:28:58.480 --> 01:29:14.239
>> There's two zones that allow them. >> No. Where are they getting built in Old Bridge? >> I just told you there's two zones in Old Bridge. All of >> Is there a contract in place that somebody's going to build one here? >> I don't know. >> You want to wait for it? >> No. I I just want to >> No, no. Do you want Okay.

306
01:29:14.239 --> 01:29:30.639
>> Do you want to wait for it and then we have to allow it? >> No, we have the president. >> Then we would have >> One second. How can we No, hold on. >> All right. Lad ladies and gentlemen. Ladies and gentlemen, >> we have interrupt. We're going to have

307
01:29:30.639 --> 01:29:48.159
to remove buddy from the hearing >> because this is council's discussion time. >> You'll have an opportunity to speak when the public gets to speak, >> right? But you've got to allow this discussion to take place whether you're for or against. >> Exactly. You have to listen.

308
01:29:48.159 --> 01:30:04.400
>> Maintain your composure and let the council speak. >> Right. >> All right. You'll have your opportunity at the end of the session. >> Right. Exactly. >> Thank you so much. I appreciate it. >> Talk about >> one other thing. I know you wrote something on social media, Dave. >> Yeah. >> Says something to the effect of

309
01:30:04.400 --> 01:30:19.600
everyone needs to come out and support the moratorum. What's wrong with putting their brakes on? Unless, of course, you already have some deal in place. >> Yeah. >> Who's got a deal in place? >> Why would you be afraid of pumping the brakes? >> Who has a deal? >> Unless of course you got a deal in place. >> Who has the deal?

310
01:30:19.600 --> 01:30:35.199
>> Unless you're already talking to somebody. >> Who has a deal? >> I don't know. Why would Why would we be worried about it? >> Why would we be Why would there's no deal in put Sorry, one second. >> Do we have a deal in place? >> No, there are no current applications.

311
01:30:35.199 --> 01:30:51.199
>> Are there anybody applications to put a data center? >> No. Just >> is there. Oh, ladies and gentlemen, please listen and give me an opportunity. We're all here to get educated and we got to speak the truth and just speak about facts. There is no none coming to Obridge as of today. Am I correct? >> Correct.

312
01:30:51.199 --> 01:31:06.400
>> Are there any applications? >> No. >> Okay. So, all I'm saying is >> talk and then talk. >> Okay. Three years. Now, one thing is a moratorium for three years, >> right? >> One year, two years, three years, 5 years, whatever you want. Can can we can

313
01:31:06.400 --> 01:31:21.679
we please let our township >> I'm gonna have Vina just quickly come up to just talk a little bit about the the data centers and I know Councilman Deal also wanted to ask for no reason >> wait one question getting back to the last question that was just asked of you are there any applications what if one

314
01:31:21.679 --> 01:31:38.000
come in tomorrow >> and it conformed what do we have >> well the two zones that they're approved in the one is the SEMI project and he already has his approvals for other uses so I don't think he'll be coming in tomorrow with an application, but he is and that is not when we were

315
01:31:38.000 --> 01:31:54.400
entertained. We are not in favor of data centers. Oh, I shouldn't say we. I apologize. I speak for myself only because I only speak for myself. I am not part of the council. Um, and the other property is the what's known as the Crossroads property, which is township property, which has not been

316
01:31:54.400 --> 01:32:10.639
sold and it's currently in litigation. So, nothing is currently happening there or in the near future. And as council president indicated at the beginning, obviously if any application regarding a data center would come forward, it would be done in a public forum. So there is

317
01:32:10.639 --> 01:32:27.480
no back door deals or anything, at least nothing I'm involved in that I know of. Um, just want to put that on the record. So, Councilman the Palama or So, so just to >> have

318
01:32:27.920 --> 01:32:43.360
you, >> so just to give you a little background, um, currently our zoning ordinance does not permit data centers. The only three places where it is permitted is the

319
01:32:43.360 --> 01:32:59.120
Crossroad redevelopment plan, and I'll talk about it first. um crossroad redevelopment plan was amended in 2008 to include data centers. We had a developer who came in and was interested in developing data centers

320
01:32:59.120 --> 01:33:15.679
almost 5 years ago. He came back to us saying that we do not have JCPNL does not have the power to develop a data center and he wants the data centers to be removed and wants to switch to

321
01:33:15.679 --> 01:33:31.840
warehousing. The current plan allows warehousing and data centers but on the crossroad sides we are in litigation with this developer. So we really can't make any changes since we are in litigation and fighting. But the truth

322
01:33:31.840 --> 01:33:48.560
is and it was not just one developer. There were a couple who came back saying that they cannot develop crossroads property with data centers due to lack of power. The other two zones the only two zones where uh data centers are

323
01:33:48.560 --> 01:34:06.880
permitted are within the segopment plan. is the I3 zone which is right on route 9 and I 10 zone which is the u oldbridge rifle and pistol club site. Both these sites have planning board approvals. In

324
01:34:06.880 --> 01:34:24.639
fact the um I 10 zone which is on route 9 is currently under construction. They are only approved for a warehouse. The design does not support data centers because if you look at the approved plans, it has uh a lot of car parking as

325
01:34:24.639 --> 01:34:39.920
well as truck parking. Uh that's not typical of a data center. The size and the height also is not typical of a data center. The other site which is the I10 zone on the gun club site that too has

326
01:34:39.920 --> 01:34:56.400
an approval of a warehouse. Again, the design does not allow for a data center. So, those are approved plans. Uh, the Route 9 site is under construction and a gun club site, we are going through D approvals.

327
01:34:56.400 --> 01:35:14.000
>> How big is that building? >> The one on the gun club, it's only 400 square ft. >> That ain't big enough. >> Yeah. >> So, so there is >> but the other warehouses are. And if segue changes his mind or he doesn't rent him out, >> but that could be the case anytime any

328
01:35:14.000 --> 01:35:31.760
we don't allow it. Period. That doesn't stop any developer for coming with a proposal and going to the zoning board. Whether it's a permit, it's a not permitted use or a prohibited use. The one more thing is with moratoriums based

329
01:35:31.760 --> 01:35:47.920
on municipal land use law. A moratorum can be placed only for six months and that too if there is backing from um if there is a strong reason health concerns you can have it in place for only 6

330
01:35:47.920 --> 01:36:04.320
months. Beyond that it is considered a taking. So a township can do that. So as of now we don't permit it. It is not approved anywhere. SegMay I know is proceeding with the regular standard

331
01:36:04.320 --> 01:36:21.920
warehouse. Um so >> there is no data center coming and with crossroads we can't do anything because we are in litigation and that too the litigation is because the developer wanted to develop it with eight warehouses. So there was no data center

332
01:36:21.920 --> 01:36:38.000
in picture on that one as well. >> Yeah. And I've I've sat on the the planning board now since 2020 and we have not entertained a data center >> since every warehouse that that we've that we've had come in front of us did

333
01:36:38.000 --> 01:36:55.679
not have the use for a data center. The power infrastructure is not there on crossroads. Um I had a conversation with JCPNL a while back. the power infrastructure is just not there. In order for that to happen, it would cost untold millions of dollars uh for the

334
01:36:55.679 --> 01:37:10.639
developer. It's not advantageous for them to go there, right? I know personally I don't I feel we don't need the data centers in this township, right? And a a moratorum, it's kicking the can down the road at at this point.

335
01:37:10.639 --> 01:37:28.639
So, if we're going to do a moratorum and we're all in agreement not to have it, just outright ban it because at at the point At the point that we are right now, there are no there's no zone that allows it. In order for the zone to happen,

336
01:37:28.639 --> 01:37:44.560
they'd have to go in front of the plan the zoning board and get a use variance from there. Then they'd have to sit in front of the planning board to get approval for it. Right? So those are two two boards with the exception of myself are volunteers within the community.

337
01:37:44.560 --> 01:38:01.679
Right? Not not a single person besides myself on the zoning board um on the planning board is an elected official and the zoning board is all volunteers. So we have a volunteer group of folks on both the planning and zoning board that represent the township

338
01:38:01.679 --> 01:38:17.119
population, right? I'm sure that they have similar feelings to what everybody here has. So if we're going to look at say kicking the can down the road, don't kick the can down the road. Just stop the train completely. So if we're going to if if anyone wants to entertain a

339
01:38:17.119 --> 01:38:32.480
moratorum that's fine but I think that we just outright say at this juncture data warehouse the the data centers are not something that we want in old bridge right hey maybe in five or 10 years it's a different story right technology

340
01:38:32.480 --> 01:38:47.840
changes a lot now I I sit in finance technology and I know a lot of folks in town do as well because I have conversations with them the difference between a data warehouse 20 years ago which was I think as Dave said was really a contingency site, right? So at

341
01:38:47.840 --> 01:39:05.440
post 911, I know personally I sat in a contingency site because my building was partially destroyed uh on 9/11. So we were in a contingency site during that time frame. And then during Hurricane Sandy again when Wall Street was was

342
01:39:05.440 --> 01:39:22.000
flooded, we had to go to our contingency sites. Those are like micro data centers as as opposed to the larger AI versioning ones. Those larger AI versioning ones are tremendous, right? Similar to we don't have Amazon warehouses in this town. The Amazon

343
01:39:22.000 --> 01:39:37.600
warehouses, if you go over the bridge into Staten Island, it's probably the size of, you know, half of Oldbridge at this point. Like there there was supposed to be a NASCAR track on that parcel of land that the Amazon warehouse is. So those types of data centers,

344
01:39:37.600 --> 01:39:53.840
which are the new ones that are popping up, they're just not fit for purpose in this township. And if if I say we just outright get rid of them completely with the exception of the two that we have, right, cuz we are one under litigation. There's nothing we could do for that. And I know the segment property already

345
01:39:53.840 --> 01:40:10.960
has an approval use for a warehouse, not a data center. And Eric to add on to that the segment site actually cannot be developed even with the approvals even if they come back they cannot be because the height limitation is only 48 ft data

346
01:40:10.960 --> 01:40:28.880
centers require higher height uh and one more important thing when regency center the commercial component was built regency center struggled to get power from JCPNL it wasn't easy for regency center which is a detail. This needs

347
01:40:28.880 --> 01:40:44.880
much more. And that's right across the street from this side. Again, the building cannot be higher than 40 48 ft. So, the entire layout and the design is not conducive to >> I live in I live in a neighborhood and some of my neighbors are out there and

348
01:40:44.880 --> 01:40:59.920
and Mary's as well. We live in a neighborhood that sometimes struggle to get power at times. So, I we definitely understand the power infrastructure is not within our realm. If we were closer to the nuclear side down south, I think that's a different story, right? The the

349
01:40:59.920 --> 01:41:17.679
transmission of that power is very cost prohibitive. So I mean that my opinion would be just to just go right and outright ban it. >> I do have one thing, Vina, right? I I just ladies and gentlemen, please hear me out for a minute, right? Tech is moving so fast. We don't know what's

350
01:41:17.679 --> 01:41:33.600
coming down the pipeline. We used to have horse and buggy. Now we have cars. They used to be farmers. Now we have tractors. They're They're so incredible. They, from what I'm hearing, they may be building them underground with netherrmal energy. There's a lot of great stuff coming and we don't know

351
01:41:33.600 --> 01:41:50.480
what the future holds, but it's moving so fast and we may find out that it's a real benefit. Not just that, but tech in in town. And I do believe we're not going to put it if it something comes here in front of someone's house to hurt you with the noise and spend water. We

352
01:41:50.480 --> 01:42:07.280
think of residents first. And the thing is with tech and all the new revolution, why should we miss out on something that may benefit us in the long run be very good for us and we don't know it. It every month something new is coming out. That's some unbelievable stuff that's happening all over the world. So for us

353
01:42:07.280 --> 01:42:24.000
to be handcuffed and start banning things without knowing what's coming, I don't think it's right for all of you. And I live here for 22 years. I think tech really does a lot of great things. Not good things and bad things, good and bad and everything, but we need when something does come, we need to kind of research it, see if it's good before we

354
01:42:24.000 --> 01:42:41.520
ban something in town right off the bat. That's just my take on it. >> Yes, I would like to speak. I appreciate everyone coming here tonight, but I think you were drawn here really for a horse and pony show. There

355
01:42:41.520 --> 01:42:57.679
is no applications for a data center presented to us on any level. Okay. And the way that it came out on Facebook, the way we heard it that as as Mr. Murman said, oh, they're putting up big polls, new new electric poles. They must

356
01:42:57.679 --> 01:43:13.119
be data centers coming here. So, I think it's these things by saying data centers, they're trigger words for you that you're upset. There's no data center here for a lot of reasons. Now when data people build data centers, they have to actually build their own

357
01:43:13.119 --> 01:43:30.239
power grid and they need a water source. It's not a water source here. In fact, in Albridge, the DP only allows us to pull out a certain amount of water and that is why that is why we have to buy water from Middle Sex Water and that's why the water rates keep on going up

358
01:43:30.239 --> 01:43:46.800
because they don't let us use our um the capacity that we could use in our own water. And I'm telling you, so when you do this, this is agile things. I can see how everyone's upset here. No one's here for a data center. No one wants a data center here. I see that it's like get

359
01:43:46.800 --> 01:44:02.400
you upset. You're agitated. You're upset. Oh, we don't want a data set or we're all cheering. There was never going to be a data center here except and let me tell you something. I will go back to December 14th, 2007. And if some any of you can look up this

360
01:44:02.400 --> 01:44:19.360
article in um the suburban first of all it was the Democrats who wanted a data center at Crossroad and >> ladies and gentlemen speak >> you can read it for you can read it for yourself you can read it for yourself do you want to be educated or you just want

361
01:44:19.360 --> 01:44:36.400
to shout things out okay so this is what I'm telling you from 2007 December 14th they proposed to zoning order. The Democrats, there were seven Democrats at that time and two Republicans for this and they touted out

362
01:44:36.400 --> 01:44:52.560
that it was going to be uh great great for our taxes and and how it was and I'll tell you what won the Democrat council meeting. In a meeting on Monday, the township council voted to amend the redevelopment plan for the crossroads site to allow Dennis data centers. It

363
01:44:52.560 --> 01:45:09.440
looks like we can actually have the pro prospect of providing tax relief. we'd be foolish not to pursue it and see where it leads. As I said, they all voted for it except for two Republicans. I got up and I said I reached I'd been on the planning board and I reached out

364
01:45:09.440 --> 01:45:25.679
to towns that also had data centers in Caucus and Piscataway and I asked them when you put these data centers in did you get t did the residents get tax relief? No. So I stated that at this particular meeting it went through a

365
01:45:25.679 --> 01:45:41.679
vote. It was the Democrats. No one's here. As I said, I'm glad you all came out. You're all excited. We understand your position on it. I'm not in favor of it because it's not sustainable in the water and for the electric grid unless they have a way of getting their own

366
01:45:41.679 --> 01:45:58.480
water, which is not feasible here, and building their own electric grid. So, it's a mute point. It's a it's a really, oh, let's come and say support support him because he's against data centers. It's a horse and pony show. So I I I hate to tell you I'm glad you came out.

367
01:45:58.480 --> 01:46:15.280
Glad we see you. Glad we know your opinions and where you stand for but this is this is the process. >> So you can look it for yourself. Once again December 14th, 2007 in the suburban >> and at that time he was in favor of data

368
01:46:15.280 --> 01:46:31.280
centers. So just want just as you say times are changing but if you look at the whole country they are trying to figure this out because if you can imagine in 10 15 20 years with all this I AI I could care less about a computer

369
01:46:31.280 --> 01:46:48.320
I can care less about the cell phone I can care less about AI. The bottom line is that is the future because these kids are born with a cell phone in their hand and they're always on a on a tablet. So in 20 years you're going to say, "Oh, China did this. We're so far behind, but

370
01:46:48.320 --> 01:47:04.960
it's not up to Albridge to do it and no data centers coming here because it's not going to be feasible for the developer to build it." >> Thank you. >> Anyone else on the council? Okay. >> Okay. >> Mr. Vonstead. >> Um I'm also against data centers. Um I

371
01:47:04.960 --> 01:47:21.360
am in favor of a outright ban now. Like why wait three years? Um, but let me let me real quick there are other thing there are mitigation strategies that are happening for some of the issues that have been brought up. Sound issues. Um, the

372
01:47:21.360 --> 01:47:36.560
average decel level in neighborhoods that have data centers to them about 60 to 80 dB or equivalent of like hight traffic environment. Um, mitigation strategies that are doing that are sound barriers and also liquid immersion cooling technologies. Uh, we're not

373
01:47:36.560 --> 01:47:51.679
there yet. Uh but down in the future there will be um same thing with the water issues. Um future data centers are going to start to use closed loop cooling. It's concept similar to a radiator in a car or if you're a gamer desktop computers with water cooling. It's the same thing just on a much

374
01:47:51.679 --> 01:48:07.440
larger scale. Um the problem with that is it generates more electricity. That's an issue. Um as you said AI data centers they can also consume up to one gawatt of power continuously on average on the much larger scale. >> An IT guy. >> Yeah. Sorry.

375
01:48:07.440 --> 01:48:24.239
um operators are increasingly pairing those closed loop data centers directly with nuclear wind solar energy projects. Again, that's a whole another discussion, but um I'm against that. Listen, if if 10 15 years down the road we find out data centers are great,

376
01:48:24.239 --> 01:48:42.560
they're going to we don't have these environmental issues, everything like that, bands can be changed. So that's that's how it looks now. >> Thanks. Thank you, Council President. Yeah, I support a ban, too, but I think party has nothing to do with it. People are concerned about the the negative impact

377
01:48:42.560 --> 01:48:59.360
on their property value. I I mean, there's there's areas in Ward 4 that will could be a problem for people's homes. So, I I definitely support a ban. I'm going to move Councilman Merwin's uh motion. Let me move his uh resolution. >> Well, before that, was anyone else have

378
01:48:59.360 --> 01:49:16.320
comments? >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> Yeah. No, I have a lot of people yet, >> right? Before the mayor, I'm going to speak and then the mayor will speak. Anyone else? Mr. Pascetti. >> Yeah. Um well, I'm from an IT background as well and um when it comes to data

379
01:49:16.320 --> 01:49:31.840
centers, um they're not conducive in, you know, residential areas obviously. Uh the the military uh would put the data centers underground. And when they did that, they had had natural cooling

380
01:49:31.840 --> 01:49:48.639
from the uh the ground 58° constant. And uh they also are now talking about um these things called SMRs, which are small modular nuclear reactors, which would

381
01:49:48.639 --> 01:50:04.080
create their own energy source and then sell the excess back to the grid. So the technology is changing quickly and uh I think it it would be um a mistake to ban something when we don't know all the

382
01:50:04.080 --> 01:50:20.400
information yet. Um, you know, and it made me think, you know, it made me think of Chicken Little, you know, the sky is falling, the sky is falling, you know, I mean, global cooling, global warming, you know, just just causing all this uh

383
01:50:20.400 --> 01:50:36.480
angst and uh, you know, emotion when we need to really look at this stuff logically and not make an emotional decision in my opinion. >> Okay, thank you. That's it. >> Yep. Anybody else have any comment?

384
01:50:36.480 --> 01:50:52.880
Okay, I'm going to try to finish this up. I had a lot of thoughts, but the one thing that bothered me the most was the way this rolled out, so to speak. I thought it was a great idea for discussion, and I always have, and I think it's very healthy. We need to do

385
01:50:52.880 --> 01:51:08.719
that. We can't think in a live in a vacuum. We have to know what you're thinking, and that's very important to all of us. I to me especially I've been here a long time and I have to tell you we've been through various things as time went on and we tried to really make

386
01:51:08.719 --> 01:51:25.840
it transparent and talk about it. I don't think there's anything wrong with that. When Councilman Murwin asked to put it on the agenda for this evening it's fine. We can talk about it. Why not? What upset me was that evidently it became a social media frenzy and that I

387
01:51:25.840 --> 01:51:42.400
was against doing anything and I was doing data centers where who who said that? I want to know I want to know who thought we had an wait I just want to know who thought we had an application already before a board

388
01:51:42.400 --> 01:51:58.480
>> before the boards. They're being heard now before the boards. Okay. So that again are they're being heard before the boards. All right. So, what happened now to me? I just want a fair trial here for for people to say that right away we we

389
01:51:58.480 --> 01:52:16.560
don't want to we're doing push back. We're taking some kind of bribe. What in God's name? We we were having a conversation. You already heard that threearters of the people said they don't think of breaks and a moratorium is enough. So why is it that this became

390
01:52:16.560 --> 01:52:33.440
something so so political? I I don't understand. I really don't. >> Well, I'm not saying you individually, but what I'm saying is people were calling and saying, "Where is the data center? Data center? Why are you why are you in favor of data center? What? This

391
01:52:33.440 --> 01:52:49.520
is crazy. If we're going to have a conversation, that's fine. Discussion is what this chamber is for. And I'm glad that you all did come out. So at least maybe this group heard the truth of what everybody feels. That's all. I think it's a good thing to come out and a good

392
01:52:49.520 --> 01:53:06.239
thing to participate. So everyone, thank you for being here tonight and I you will have time to comment as well. Thank you. Now the mayor would like to speak. Thank you all for coming out tonight. I feel bad you came out really because we're not in favor of data centers. There's no

393
01:53:06.239 --> 01:53:23.520
data center applications out there. I I don't think most of the council's in favor of it and um a moratorum isn't going to have any bite. Um if the council wants to do anything, they're going to have to ban them. Um and as Vina said, our planner that they're only allowed in two areas right now in one

394
01:53:23.520 --> 01:53:39.520
they're already have all approvals. None of them are data centers and there's no electric or water in the other site. So people are not going to come in and spend that kind of money to put the power in. Right now in Oldbridge, it's not even feasible. And we are not in favor of data centers. And there's I

395
01:53:39.520 --> 01:53:58.080
there are no data center applications out there. I promise you. So I I feel bad that you all got upset over nothing that there are no data centers coming. >> But they're not coming. >> So ma'am, you'll have your time to talk.

396
01:53:58.080 --> 01:54:13.679
>> You'll be able to come up in the public now. As soon as we finish our comments, then we're going to open to the public. Okay. >> Yes. >> I have one question. So regardless of what we do, so I guess this is a question for the attorney, >> right? >> So we would

397
01:54:13.679 --> 01:54:29.199
>> obviously I'm in favor of the ban. So we would approve let's just say a ban, a moratorum, whatever that might be, whatever is the >> different >> whatever is at the behest of the council. What would have to happen next? >> You'd have to

398
01:54:29.199 --> 01:54:45.199
instruct the legal department to um draft the ordinance. Um, and then we would go back and draft it. And >> so it would be an ordinance. It wouldn't have to go to any of the boards or anything like that. It would sit up here. >> Correct.

399
01:54:45.199 --> 01:55:03.199
>> Okay. I mean, I'm in favor, you know, to move forward with a drafting an ordinance for a ban for the time being. >> I'll second that. >> So, there was a motion made by Mr. Trauma.

400
01:55:03.199 --> 01:55:21.040
That's for all zoning, right? >> Yeah, I believe that's what we said. Correct. >> It's really reinforcing our current zoning laws in essence is what we're doing. Reiterating that we don't allow it in this town. Period. End of story. The two the two other the ones that are

401
01:55:21.040 --> 01:55:36.639
out there could be addressed. But the for going forward, it would be yes, the ban on them. >> Okay. >> And I believe that Mr. Rosili indicated that uh at least to Mr. uh Merwin because they've been going back on the

402
01:55:36.639 --> 01:55:52.400
back and forth on this for a couple of weeks now that uh it could potentially expose the township to a lawsuit for a taking. Um there's some uh precedents for that and other towns have uh passed bans on other

403
01:55:52.400 --> 01:56:09.440
things. Um, uh, I think one of them was some town in I think it was South Jersey. I don't have my notes here, but that's a potential that it could be uh, Jersey City. It was an executive order

404
01:56:09.440 --> 01:56:24.560
issued by the mayor to uh, uh, deny any uh, demolition permits uh, for one one to four family structures in the city. uh suit has been filed uh at this juncture finding that uh the mayor

405
01:56:24.560 --> 01:56:41.119
exceeded uh their authority. Um so that is always the potential that that could happen but frankly given the fact that we only have two potential sites. One which is crossroads which is in litigation. Nothing's happening there.

406
01:56:41.119 --> 01:56:55.760
Um but um >> and the other one has an approval >> the other one has an approval for warehouses. I mean, those are the only two that are permitted at this time and they're really out of the picture, but >> you know, whatever council wants to do

407
01:56:55.760 --> 01:57:16.239
is uh, you know, we'll uh draft accordingly. >> Okay. >> I just wanted to, you know, make sure everybody understands that. >> No. >> Yep. >> Who seconded? Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Uh, roll call. So this is to prohibit uh

408
01:57:16.239 --> 01:57:31.679
prohibit data centers >> resolutions >> or to draft a draft. >> So this would be to draft an ordinance. >> This would be to send it to the legal department to draft an ordinance for the ban. >> Okay. So roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> No. >> Is this the first reading? >> No.

409
01:57:31.679 --> 01:57:48.000
>> No. It's a draft. It's a draft. Right. >> Councilman Deama. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. Councilman Pasci, >> no. >> Councilman Rosolei, >> yes. >> Councilman Von Stettton,

410
01:57:48.000 --> 01:58:12.480
>> yes. >> Council Vice President, Dr. Greenberg Bella, >> yes. >> And council president. One, two, three, four. So would >> those are two nos. >> Yeah. Two nos. and to draft an >> what was it?

411
01:58:12.480 --> 01:58:27.920
>> What was that? >> Wow. >> Sorry. >> Okay. >> Discussion item. >> Next discussion item is um hold on one second there. Uh discussion regarding restricting the use of township vehicles

412
01:58:27.920 --> 01:58:45.679
by elected officials. Mr. Rosolei. >> Thank you, Council President. Yes, I like the an ordinance drafted. >> What are we doing? >> Ladies and gentlemen, please let us let let's get get uh restricting the use where no elected official can be issued a taxpayer funded vehicle to take home.

413
01:58:45.679 --> 01:59:01.040
Whoever the mayor is, he or she can drive to town hall, take said vehicle to conduct township business, then return said vehicle. I think it's a very reasonable um ordinance. >> Okay. >> And uh I want to I want this to uh move forward. Thank you.

414
01:59:01.040 --> 01:59:19.199
>> Okay. Does anyone have any comment on my left? >> Does anyone have any comment on my right? >> Yes, I do. >> Okay. Mr. Asichuli, >> Mr. Rosolei, what does the average mayor make with 70,000 residents? >> Let me ask another question.

415
01:59:19.199 --> 01:59:35.040
>> That's a great question. Yeah. >> What does the car have to do with what a mayor makes? >> I I just asked you a question >> and I'm answering your question. There's no ordinance that allows take home car for the mayor. I >> I'll answer the question for you. I have the data. No worries. >> Mayor approximately makes with a

416
01:59:35.040 --> 01:59:50.960
township of 70,000 between 60 and $90,000 per year. Do you know what the council members make, Mr. Rosie? based on um residents about 70,000 people give or take. >> She's a public

417
01:59:50.960 --> 02:00:06.719
>> maybe about 25 to 40,000. >> Yeah. Pretty smart. Good. Good deal. >> I know I am. Thank you. >> No, good job. Um so let me share something with you. >> You know what the mayor makes here? >> Right. >> Their choice. >> What does the mayor make here? >> Like 15,000. >> Exactly. You know what the council

418
02:00:06.719 --> 02:00:21.440
members make? >> I think six last. >> Exactly. 6,000. So basically in 40 years, nobody on this deis has ever asked for a raise and got a raise based on 70,000 people. It's the lowest. The mayor makes 15,000.

419
02:00:21.440 --> 02:00:38.639
Now watch this. 70,000 people. 15,000 a year. That's 10,000 with taxes. She comes home with about $900 a month to run a 70,000. I'm finished. Do not speak. Are you Sir going to have to go if they out of line

420
02:00:38.639 --> 02:00:54.159
one more time? Okay. Thank you. I got to go. And one more person. I got to go. >> So, that being said, that being said, she would make about come home with $900 and make about $700 a month to run a town of 70,000 residents. Now, if she

421
02:00:54.159 --> 02:01:10.080
used her own car for gas, it'll be about $200 a month. I'm sorry. I'd have to disagree. >> The ordinance Well, you weren't Well, how long you want to speak for? I'm putting the ordinance up. Excuse me. I'm speaking on my ordinance. >> Anyway,

422
02:01:10.080 --> 02:01:27.040
>> I say drive to the township, take the vehicle from the township and then return. >> Let me finish my thought. >> Just let him. >> Let me finish. You don't have to interrupt me. I won't interrupt you. >> And then you can >> So the mayor, >> I've noticed one thing. She goes to so many events in town.

423
02:01:27.040 --> 02:01:41.360
I didn't see you at many, but we've been to many events. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, morning, in the afternoon, the evening. So she does drive around town. I mean, we're talking about $70,000

424
02:01:41.360 --> 02:01:59.040
people. She makes $700 a month. How much more are we going to ask for? Like, give us a break. Let her live a little bit. We run this town. We are number one in fiscal responsibility. We're one of the greatest towns with public safety to bring up a family. We

425
02:01:59.040 --> 02:02:14.400
have a double A Moody rating. Our parks and wrecks are growing unbelievably. We have a great school system. And at the end of the day, we're talking about a car for a mayor that's making $700 to

426
02:02:14.400 --> 02:02:31.040
run a town. We have not we one more. She's got to go. That's it. Excuse me, sir. Have to leave. >> Sir, she's got to go. Enough. You can't be talking from outside. >> Have some respect. >> I give you the time. You give us the time. >> It's not right. >> You can't just come here and do these

427
02:02:31.040 --> 02:02:46.080
things every time you come here and shout from the back. No, I've had it. We're up here serving you and we get abused. I'm not standing for it. And at the end of the day, we're allowed to talk just like you. You shout four times now. Have some respect.

428
02:02:46.080 --> 02:03:00.719
>> I'm the sergeant- of- arms. Have some respect when you come here. It's the right thing to do. >> I know. >> Stop. >> Enough. It's enough that we come up here every day and get abused. We get called all kinds of stuff.

429
02:03:00.719 --> 02:03:20.159
Enough is enough. It's funny, my guy. You can go. You're not that tough. Trust me. >> So, at the end of the day, you're making $700 a month, right? >> Let me ask you a question. >> Let's You think that that's fair?

430
02:03:20.159 --> 02:03:37.199
>> That she can't have a car based on her salary and going around. >> I don't think this is this there's no specific name I introduced to this. I said in general. >> Okay. No, you're good. I >> def. So, I I have a >> m I'm going to respond to that. >> Okay. >> I just wanted here's the reality. I

431
02:03:37.199 --> 02:03:52.000
heard about fiscal responsibility the entire time the budget was being introduced. All we heard about was fuel costs. Okay. That's all we heard about. Okay. There's nothing that's allowed in ordinance from any elected official to have a vehicle. No one's saying she can't use it for township business. She

432
02:03:52.000 --> 02:04:07.679
could drive her car here like other full-time employees, but not even full-time employees do. Tell me a job that's not a full-time employee that gets a take-home car. I don't know of any. I'm being reasonable here. All I'm saying is you take your car here like everybody else does. You use said

433
02:04:07.679 --> 02:04:23.360
township vehicle to conduct township business. Then you return it. This is for the future, too. >> At 1:00 in the morning, 2:00 in the morning. Mark, this is seriously really. We got bigger things to fry than this. >> Patty, >> I have I have I have a question and I don't know.

434
02:04:23.360 --> 02:04:40.159
>> He lowered he lowered our mics. >> Yeah. So, I have a question specifically and I don't know Kenny if you could answer this and if I'm not mistaken that there is there state statutes that govern public safety directors and similar to when Owen was our mayor and

435
02:04:40.159 --> 02:04:55.760
now that Debbiey's our mayor they are our public safety director right >> they are the mayor is >> so are the public safety director >> so by that >> which has to be on call 24/7 7 days a week 365 >> so with that are there statute Yes, we

436
02:04:55.760 --> 02:05:12.800
may not have code or ordinances specific, but state supersedes a lot of our stuff. Are there state statutes that allow and or prohibit the use of township vehicles? >> No. >> For for a public safety director?

437
02:05:12.800 --> 02:05:29.920
>> I haven't done the research, but not that I'm aware of. There's nothing that prohibits. Can you make sure that the TV guy the volumes on all the microphones? I >> mean, these these cars are all part of the general pool if I'm not mistaken.

438
02:05:29.920 --> 02:05:47.280
>> So, the cost of insurance is being paid regardless of who drives it. >> So, um you know, >> I know that >> other than the gas is is would be the only >> um variable would be how much gas is used.

439
02:05:47.280 --> 02:06:05.920
But because if the car sits in the parking lot or is on the road with the mayor or some other employee, uh the insurance is going to be paid either way. So your cost seems to me would be the variable of um mileage and gas.

440
02:06:05.920 --> 02:06:23.599
>> Yeah. And I think for for the purposes of the conversation that the it's not a commuting benefit, right? I think going out to fires, going out to different things, that's the purpose of the the vehicle, >> right? Going out to, you know, obviously we have a lot and I did use chat GPT, so

441
02:06:23.599 --> 02:06:40.560
I apologize using the data center um just now to look it up. Um so it doesn't seem like it's not advisable, right? Obviously, if you're using it to, you know, drive to California and back,

442
02:06:40.560 --> 02:06:56.159
that's not an advisable thing to do. And I don't think our mayor would do so. Right. If you're utilizing it within the township limits and you are doing certain things for the township. Yeah. I mean, Mayor Henry had it and now Mayor Walker has it, right? As and it's not in

443
02:06:56.159 --> 02:07:12.880
the as the mayor. It's as the public safety director. If Mayor Walker hired a public safety director tomorrow, she would no longer be eligible to utilize that that vehicle, >> right? I think she would the necessity wouldn't be there because she wouldn't be on

444
02:07:12.880 --> 02:07:30.320
call. Correct. >> 247. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. I'm glad you let me know. She's the public safety director. >> And by the way, when did this when did this start? >> The mayor's You don't have to let me know now. Just research. Let me know when when this started. The mayors took

445
02:07:30.320 --> 02:07:47.040
home cars. >> You don't have to let me know now. the when this whole thing started when the mayor took out for when there were as a public safety director for fires for car accidents and everything at night. Thank you. >> Well, I I I can tell you it was here uh

446
02:07:47.040 --> 02:08:02.719
when Mayor Henry was the mayor for 12 years. >> So, it that's when it started. I mean, >> I don't know that um >> before that >> since I've been here. So, it's been it'll be like 16 years now.

447
02:08:02.719 --> 02:08:21.599
Um, I know that from day one when he was elected, he had access to and took home a car 24/7 365 for the same reasons as a public safety director. >> Anyone else have any comment or question?

448
02:08:21.599 --> 02:08:38.639
>> Don't know what he's done for W four. >> So, do we have any >> Excuse me. You always got something derogatory to say about somebody. You're nothing but All you do is bloate. That's right. What have I done for Ward for? Let me get this straight. You're trying all you want to do is put warehouses in everybody else's neighborhood. >> Okay. Okay. No, I didn't. All right.

449
02:08:38.639 --> 02:08:53.520
Enough. >> You know, the car voted for the warehouses that move forward from the school. >> All right. Let's different topic, a whole another topic. Okay. So, is there any >> It wasn't our land. That's why we need to open. >> Is there anyone else that wishes? >> Mr. Pasitti,

450
02:08:53.520 --> 02:09:08.320
>> why do you make a face every time I raise my hand? >> Oh, I don't know. Do I? >> You do. >> Oh, okay. Oh, well, you wave to me. Wave to me. Go ahead. >> Okay. I just wanted to wave. >> Yeah. What What do you What would you like to say? >> Nothing. Order. Let's go next. Let's go.

451
02:09:08.320 --> 02:09:25.440
>> I thought you had something to say. >> All right. Anybody else? >> Anyone else? >> Anybody to do anything with this? Anybody anything else? Okay. All right. So, I don't see anybody making any kind of All right. So, we will we will end

452
02:09:25.440 --> 02:09:46.000
that topic. All right. Okay. So nice. Okay. Next will be report of the township clerk. So I did want to just discuss the uh primary election and the staff that helped out at the primary

453
02:09:46.000 --> 02:10:02.639
election. We want to recognize and sincere sincerely thank our dedicated staff who worked election night at the local level to ensure su successful election closeout process from our pole workers to township employees. While election day often receives much of the attention, the work that follows is

454
02:10:02.639 --> 02:10:18.719
equally important. The closeout procedure requires precision, accountability, patience, and an unwavering commitment to the integrity of our electoral pro process. From recogni from reconciling materials and documenting results to securing equipment, every task plays a critical

455
02:10:18.719 --> 02:10:34.159
role in maintaining a public trust and confidence in our elections. Our staff demonstrated exceptional professionalism throughout this process. They managed unexpected challenges and remained focused on accuracy and compliance. Their attention to detail ensured that all the procedures were completely

456
02:10:34.159 --> 02:10:49.599
thoroughly and according to established guidelines. I also want to acknowledge that the administration and council recognized the great recognize and greatly appreciate the dedication, commitment, and professionalism demonstrated by everyone involved. The efforts often take place behind the

457
02:10:49.599 --> 02:11:05.840
scenes, but they don't go unnoticed. The administration and council understand the importance of this work and are grateful for the care and diligence that bring every aspect of the election process. This the success of this election closeout was made possible through teamwork, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. Each of

458
02:11:05.840 --> 02:11:22.320
you played an important role in ensuring that the process was completely accurate and efficient. On behalf of the administration and council, thank you for your outstanding service, your dedication to public service, and your commitment to maintain the trust and confidence of our community. Your hard work reflects the very best of local

459
02:11:22.320 --> 02:11:38.400
government. So, I just wanted to give a special shout out to all the people, all the township employees that helped out at the election. We had Sonia Harrison, Evelyn Rosario, Hazel Thompson, Alex Rosel, Gory Chry, Vsha Cutotler,

460
02:11:38.400 --> 02:11:53.920
Rosemary Ravoli, Kevin Cole, Ray Dill, Mike Marts, Kevin Menon, Paul Goats, Linda J. Jases, Brenda Worst, Barbara Grippy, Erica Vargas Hart, Samantha Kitchen, Taylor Sheridan, and Diane

461
02:11:53.920 --> 02:12:12.560
Katar Zeratti. Zeratti, right? Um, and everybody and even the pole workers, we all had an outstanding election and I want to thank everybody for their dedication. >> Very nice. Does any does anyone have any comments

462
02:12:12.560 --> 02:12:29.840
or questions for the clerk's report? Seeing no hands, I'll ask for a motion. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Motion by council vice president Dr. Greenberg Bell. Second by Councilman. >> And I would be remiss. She did a wonderful job. Kate, >> thank you. >> She's thanking her staff, but she really

463
02:12:29.840 --> 02:12:46.480
did an excellent job. >> Yep. You really did a very Thank you very much. You did a great job. >> Thank you. Um, all in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Hearing none. The report is accepted. >> Okay. Next is township attorney report. >> There are no reports at this time. Thank

464
02:12:46.480 --> 02:13:01.360
you. >> Thank you. Next is our administrative report. Anna, thank you. Catrell Farm Park pedestrian safety improvement public meeting. The township of Old Bridge will be hosting a public information meeting on Thursday, June 18 to inform residents, officials,

465
02:13:01.360 --> 02:13:16.239
businesses, and the public about the preliminary engineering phase for the proposed improvements at Coachella Farm Park. Orbridge has received a grant through transportation alternative set aside program to construct pedest pedestrian safety improvements along the

466
02:13:16.239 --> 02:13:31.840
frontage of Catrell Farm Park. The proposed improvements will add a shared use path for both pedestrians and bicyclists, street trees, curbs, decorative lighting, storm storm water management basins, and other features along the park fage to provide safe

467
02:13:31.840 --> 02:13:48.480
passage for both pedestrians and bicyclists. The purpose of the public information meeting is to update the public and solicited valuable input and information towards the project. Project team members will be in attendance to present information and answer questions on Thursday, June 18th from 6:00 p.m. to

468
02:13:48.480 --> 02:14:05.360
7:30 p.m. here in the administration building on the second floor in conference room 2011. The public is welcome to attend at any time during that time and will have an opportunity to review exhibits of the pre preliminary construction plans, ask questions, provide feedback via comments

469
02:14:05.360 --> 02:14:23.760
at the meeting by mail or email. Written comments will be accepted through July 6, 2026. And comments may be emailed to Nicole S. Shapiro, PP CME, at NS Shapiro.com, or to Michael A. Wallow, pme at mw

470
02:14:23.760 --> 02:14:42.480
wallow w at gp i n t.com. Cutrol Farm Park subsurface exploration. Obridge Township contractor Haley and Aldrich will begin s sub have begun I should say subsurface exploration along

471
02:14:42.480 --> 02:14:57.920
Coutril Road and Obridge Madawan Road Route 516 within Coutrell Park uh Catrell Farm Park beginning Monday, June 8th. This work is required to assist in the design of the Catrell Farm Park pedestrian safety improvement project. The contractor will be performing the

472
02:14:57.920 --> 02:15:14.480
work within Coachella Farm Park from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for a duration of 3 to 4 days, weather permitting. The park will remain open to open to all residents during this construction activity. Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the Obridge Township Engineering Office at

473
02:15:14.480 --> 02:15:31.840
732-721-560 extension 302. Princeton Road resurfacing Township contractor Mo Inc. will begin milling and paving operations on Princeton Road starting Monday, June 8th. The work is is anticipated to take 5 days to

474
02:15:31.840 --> 02:15:47.840
complete, weather permitting. Princeton Road within the work zone will temporarily be restricted to through traffic except for local residents, school buses, trash companies, mail carriers, and emergency vehicles during construction activities. Should you have any question, please do not hesitate to

475
02:15:47.840 --> 02:16:05.440
con contact the the Obridge Township Engineering Office at 732-721-56000 extension 2302. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the Garden State Preservation Trust have approved Obridge Township's application for

476
02:16:05.440 --> 02:16:24.719
Greenacres grant in the amount of $1.4 million. The funding The funding will support land preservation, local park improvements, and natural resources stewardship, all aimed at ensuring highquality close to home open space and recreation

477
02:16:24.719 --> 02:16:40.240
opportunities for all residents. These funds will be used for the Tytown Road Park natural soccer field proposed improvements in consisting of the construction of new natural sided fields with irrigation, lighting, parking lot resurfacing, and store water management

478
02:16:40.240 --> 02:16:56.800
improvements. Contract design work will begin in the summer of 26 and construction was will start in the spring of 27. The funding is contingent upon the passage of legislation legislative appropriation. Great job on everybody engineering, recreation, everybody who worked on this

479
02:16:56.800 --> 02:17:16.000
application. >> And finally, the township is proud to partner with the Obridge Township public schools on the upcoming America 250 community celebration celebrating America's 250th birthday. The event will take place on July 18 from 12:00 p.m. to 400 pm at Krell Farm Park with the rain

480
02:17:16.000 --> 02:17:29.920
of July 19th. The celebration will feature patriotic artwork from Obridge Township students, colonial games, an opportunity to for attendees to sign their own Declaration of Independence, as well as food, music, and family-friendly activities for the

481
02:17:29.920 --> 02:17:53.760
community. And this concludes my report. Okay, very good. Anyone have a question or a comment for Anna? >> Except Bravo. Okay, I'll take a motion to accept. >> Motion second. >> Motion by Councilman Asetuli, second by

482
02:17:53.760 --> 02:18:10.800
Councilman Vonstettton. All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? >> Hearing none. The administrator's report is accepted. >> Thank you. Next will be our public portion. The public comment portion of our meeting is to allow the public to bring to the council's attention their

483
02:18:10.800 --> 02:18:26.319
concerns or comments. This section is open for any topic or items in the consent agenda. In accordance with NJSA colon 10 col4-12A and the Oldbridge rules of council, the council asked the public to limit their comments to 3 minutes or less. Only one

484
02:18:26.319 --> 02:18:42.479
member of the public shall approach to speak to council at a time. The council respect the public's time by refraining from any comment until the speaker is finished with their allotted time. Should be further noted that the public comment portion of our meeting is not structured as a question and answer session. If a member of the public has questions they seek answers to, an

485
02:18:42.479 --> 02:18:58.719
appointment can be made with the corresponding department department's office during regular business hours. Township clerk will regulate the time during the comment portion of our meeting. >> One second. One second. Go ahead. No one can hear anything. Let us speak. No, it's okay. And I'm good. >> As you approach the microphone, please state your name. Do not give your

486
02:18:58.719 --> 02:19:17.599
address. >> Just resident or non-resident. >> So if you're a resident or a non-resident, please. >> Okay. Ready. >> Katherine Whidley, Old Brbridge Lifer. I am here just to ask for your respect

487
02:19:17.599 --> 02:19:35.439
and for you all to listen to what these people have to say. It takes a lot to come out here and then to be told, "Oh, you came here for nothing." I think if this conversation was not held this evening, the result would have been very different. Does anyone disagree? Does anyone on the

488
02:19:35.439 --> 02:19:51.840
deis know? >> How do you know? >> Excuse me. I have my time. >> Does anyone on the deis know how many data centers are currently in the state of New Jersey? >> Ma'am, this is not a question and answer period. You can make your you ma'am

489
02:19:51.840 --> 02:20:06.960
>> 81. >> You can make your state >> 81. They started as conversations just like this. Let's just be done with it, ma'am. Yes, I'm getting to my point. Happy Pride. You get your point. >> Happy Pride. >> Happy Pride. >> That's tremendous. >> We love our community.

490
02:20:06.960 --> 02:20:21.920
>> That's tremendous. >> Pride is about inclusivity and everybody loving each other. So, let's be respectful for all these people who showed up and were told that they wasted their time. Okay? Listen to them. Don't talk amongst yourselves. I'm

491
02:20:21.920 --> 02:20:41.040
asking you respectfully to listen to these people who are getting up here to talk to you. Thank you so much. Have a wonderful night. Happy Pride and go Knicks. >> My name is Kendrick Pew. Uh I am a resident of Oldbridge and as a firsttime comer, I mean I've never been to one of

492
02:20:41.040 --> 02:20:58.560
these before and as a you know starting voter in Old Bridge, I would just like to say that the conduct that I've seen here has not been up to standard in my opinion. I've seen that the people here have disrespected the speakers multiple times. Our audience here, I understand, has barged in at some points, but I feel

493
02:20:58.560 --> 02:21:14.240
as though some of your responses showed very much disrespect to some of those participants in those in the audience. Multiple participants just want to give what they have to say here, and I feel like they aren't allowed to speak. I feel like as a community, we're not being heard. You all told us, and I will

494
02:21:14.240 --> 02:21:30.240
quote you all, that our vote matters and that our voices matter as citizens of Oldbridge. And I don't feel like that has mattered at all during this entire discussion. I've stood there in the back for two hours straight watching as this discussion unfolded, watching all this conduct. And I mean, even amongst

495
02:21:30.240 --> 02:21:46.319
yourselves in your own conversations, I saw you all bickering at some points. It looked like I don't think that as a township that that shows responsibility that that shows the fiscal responsibility. I'm not the fiscal responsibility, but you know what I mean. As a township that has shown to have such a high standard. I just don't feel that we're showing that in this

496
02:21:46.319 --> 02:22:12.000
discussion here at all. Um, so along those same Bridget Lava, >> along those same lines, um, tell us you weren't listening without actually saying you weren't listening. Um, I think we were, you know, it was said by multiple members of this body that, you

497
02:22:12.000 --> 02:22:26.960
know, 20 years ago things were a lot different, right? They were a data center was just an alternate, you know, business resiliency plan. It was a second. But yet, you took a, you know, the opportunity to say, "Oh, but 20 years ago, the Democrats making it

498
02:22:26.960 --> 02:22:43.520
political." Okay? It did not need to be. People are here because they have legitimate concerns. I'm sure 10 years ago, people were told, "Oh, don't worry. Warehouses, you'll never have to worry about that." But yet, they have them in their backyards now. And people have a

499
02:22:43.520 --> 02:23:00.399
right to come here and voice their concerns and be proactive. You know, the one of the first things we discussed was a $4 million emergency fund for something that could have been budgeted for. And don't say the state just or the county just dropped it. This is a cyclical process that happens every 10,

500
02:23:00.399 --> 02:23:15.760
20, 30 years and it should be budgeted for. It didn't just come out of nowhere. So when people come here and they communicate to you that they have a concern about anything, it is your job to listen. You might not like what we have to say, but it is your job. So to

501
02:23:15.760 --> 02:23:40.160
just turn it on, oh, the the county or the Democrats, really just stop. It's condescending. Laws, technology, variances, things change. So again for people to come here and try to be proactive to say hey this is not something that we want there's no

502
02:23:40.160 --> 02:24:01.120
harm in that. So by coming here and or coming up and telling us that you know you came here for no reason or you were baited here or it again condescending and you're treating us like I we're stupid and it's insulting. >> Good evening. My name is Ruth and I've

503
02:24:01.120 --> 02:24:18.399
lived in Oldbridge for 38 years. For the past week, I've been reading about local towns proudly proclaiming June as Pride Month and stating they are a welcoming community. These towns include Madawan, Aberdine, Freehold for a few. Madawan, I

504
02:24:18.399 --> 02:24:34.479
just drove by there. They have a big flag out. I have searched for any recognition from our town and the most recent proclamation I could find was by Mayor Henry on June 2nd, 2022. He urged residents to recognize contributions

505
02:24:34.479 --> 02:24:51.200
made by made by members of the LGBTQ plus community and to actively promote the principles of equality, liberty, and justice. Mayor Walker and council members, are you aware that 39%

506
02:24:51.200 --> 02:25:07.520
of LGBTQ plus young people seriously consider suicide and that more than 1 in 10 12% of these same youth have attempted suicide. This is from the 2024 US National Survey on

507
02:25:07.520 --> 02:25:23.359
the mental health of LGBTQ plus young people. However, LGBTQ plus young people who reported living in very accepting communities, their suicide rep rate, attempted suicide rate

508
02:25:23.359 --> 02:25:38.640
is less than half this rate. Mayor Walker, by making a proclamation, putting something out on the town's website and its social media page recognizing Pride Month on the electronic sign outside the town hall,

509
02:25:38.640 --> 02:25:53.600
maybe a few little flags. You may be saving a teen's life. It doesn't matter what religion you are, what color you are, or what political party you support or don't support.

510
02:25:53.600 --> 02:26:11.040
Saving a life is of utmost importance. You could be white, black, Hispanic, Asian, from Australia, from Native American, and be gay. You could be Catholic, Episcopalian, Protestant, Jewish,

511
02:26:11.040 --> 02:26:27.600
Muslim, Hindu, Baptist, and you could be gay. And if you could think, Gor Walker, that if you do this and make a proclamation and put it out in that little newspaper that we get in the mail, you might be saving one child in our community. And saving a life to me

512
02:26:27.600 --> 02:26:49.760
is the most utmost of importance. Thank you for listening to me. pretty tall, my bad. My name is Kaylee Henry. I am the ecology director for Climate Revolution Action Network. Um, my whole fight for the past 3 months has been taking down data centers or

513
02:26:49.760 --> 02:27:04.960
proposing ordinances to different municipalities for them to pass and ban data centers. That is why I'm here tonight. I had a few people from your community reach out to me to come here and learn about what's happening in the community. Obviously, we see no proposals as you guys have said

514
02:27:04.960 --> 02:27:20.960
throughout the night, but the reason why people have shown up here tonight is because they are very adamant on not having data centers here at all, which is why this ban would just be perfect to secure your community members and make them feel more secure in their homes. That's why we're here tonight. I have

515
02:27:20.960 --> 02:27:37.280
taken down five data centers so far in the last two months. And I have also Thank you. I've also passed 15 ordinances to ban data centers. I have an ordinance. I would love to share that with you. It's very thorough. It's good. They It has been used 10 times. Um

516
02:27:37.280 --> 02:27:53.040
that's why I'm here tonight. And it's just blatant disrespect that I've been seeing all night. It's really not good. I've been to so many different council meetings and never have I seen so much bickering between council members in front of so many community members. I feel like we need to take a step back

517
02:27:53.040 --> 02:28:08.920
and reflect on our actions and the way that we act because you guys are acting a little bit like teenagers and children and then yelling at teenagers and children in the front row. Um, that's all I have to say. If you want me to send over the ordinance, I'm happy to. Have a good night.

518
02:28:11.680 --> 02:28:27.359
>> Hi, good Hi, good evening. My name is Kai Hall. I'm resident of uh Oldbridge. I had a whole thing written up, so please bear with me. I'm vertically challenged. Thank you. Um I know that we are working on proposing a ban, but I just wanted to actually

519
02:28:27.359 --> 02:28:43.520
present some facts since we only so cited an article from 2007. Um in just March, this past March, NJPP, New Jersey policy perspective, released a report. It was called Fool's Gold, the hidden cost of AI data centers for New Jersey.

520
02:28:43.520 --> 02:28:59.520
I recommend that you all read up on it and actually educate yourself on the facts because in 2025 alone, data centers accounted for nearly 70% of the increase in utility demands for New Jersey residents. This um

521
02:28:59.520 --> 02:29:14.479
report also found that a typical AI data center uses as much energy as at least 100,000 households. We cannot afford to put more unjust financial burden on New Jersey residents. So while they also try to claim that there's an economic

522
02:29:14.479 --> 02:29:30.560
benefit, all the jobs, the high-paying jobs are from people from out of state. It offers nothing economically for our residents. On top of it, the most dangerous is to our is an impact to our human health. Data centers have non-stop humming as we've all uh discussed today.

523
02:29:30.560 --> 02:29:46.240
This has also resulted in a plethora of lawsuits across the US, including most recently Cumberland County, New Jersey, where residents filed a class action lawsuit in federal court. Um, due to the constant humming noises, data center operations rely heavily on fossil fuels,

524
02:29:46.240 --> 02:30:01.520
which emits air pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds. These have all been directly linked to asthma, lung cancer, respiratory ailments, and higher risk of cardiovascular vascular disease,

525
02:30:01.520 --> 02:30:18.160
cognitive decline, and early death. I understand we're voting for a ban, but we need a full lifetime ban because if any of you support this, you are going to be responsible for the death. You care about our future, you will make sure there's a ban.

526
02:30:18.160 --> 02:30:33.359
Also, I don't understand why we have to keep talking about respect. You tell us you you want us to be respectful towards to you. It works both ways. This is America. We still have free speech. Do not tell us what we can and cannot say. And mayor, you should do something about

527
02:30:33.359 --> 02:30:54.560
making a announce about pride. How dare you not include the LGBTQ plus community. Thank you. >> Hello, my name is Natalie Flyac, pronoun she, they. Um, first I would just like to give kudos to Councilman Merwin. I

528
02:30:54.560 --> 02:31:10.880
really appreciate you putting forward like a preventative uh piece of legislation to keep data centers out of Old Bridge. I think that was an amazing thing to do and I really appreciate it. Um, next thing I wanted to do is just promote that um, there's going to be a

529
02:31:10.880 --> 02:31:27.920
Pride disco and organizing fair in Oldbridge at the Old Bridge Civic Center um, this Friday 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. It's completely free. Um, there's going to be food, dancing, where whatever you want. Um, there's a sign up as well I can hand

530
02:31:27.920 --> 02:31:44.080
out. Um, the next thing I would like to say is that if you want to increase the tax revenue of Oldbridge, maybe cancel the 20 to 30year pause on t property taxes for the warehouses that were

531
02:31:44.080 --> 02:32:00.319
built. >> Maybe that'll increase our tax revenue. >> And lastly, Mr. Mr. Acatuli, if you continue to speak to your constituents with disrespect like you are their

532
02:32:00.319 --> 02:32:19.280
father and they are your teenage daughter, you will be voted out. That's it. >> Hi, good evening. Um, my name is Joe Milo Russo. Um, I just wanted to

533
02:32:19.280 --> 02:32:36.560
personally thank uh, Councilman Merwin for uh, bringing up the topic of AI data centers in Oldbridge. I don't think, you know, we wouldn't be here if he if this conversation wasn't started and I think that um, we are I I am actually really happy to see so many faces here and it

534
02:32:36.560 --> 02:32:53.120
makes fills me with joy to know that people are doing their civic duty. You want to encourage, you know, votership and then tell us that we're here for no reason. So that really uh, you know, makes no sense. I have prepared some some things to say. I don't want to reiterate like the environmental effects

535
02:32:53.120 --> 02:33:09.280
of our community and the absolute like drain of our resources and utilities. Um but I do want to bring up which uh I don't know what the speaker before me brought up the uh tax abatement of the Central 9 logistics park. Um I really I think there's a lot of questions about

536
02:33:09.280 --> 02:33:26.080
that whole development in general. Um, obviously if there are if there was going to be any warehouse, uh, excuse me, any a AI data centers, they would likely be there. Um, so I just want to know, you know, I think a lot of us are here because we see these properties

537
02:33:26.080 --> 02:33:42.399
being popped up in our community almost out of nowhere, right? And they're built up against, you know, my aunt lives in Glenwood apartment complex. I visit her. I I was astounded to see these massive structures along Glennward Drive, you

538
02:33:42.399 --> 02:33:59.120
know. Um so I to my knowledge something like this has not happened before in Old Bridge where 600 acres 600 acres have been swallowed up by by private entities, private companies and we don't

539
02:33:59.120 --> 02:34:15.439
know what's going on, right? So I think we as the residents here, we deserve a little bit of transparency about what type of businesses are being operated there and the revenue as well as who are the investment who who is investing into

540
02:34:15.439 --> 02:34:30.960
the these properties because the revenue will not meet the community if there's a tax abatement of of 30 years. Um, and our population is growing. Our we're building more retail, but yet our taxes

541
02:34:30.960 --> 02:34:47.359
are going the township taxes are going up and we're closing another school. I don't understand how that I don't how can this how can we sustain a community like this where we are popping up more wooden box tracked housing with more

542
02:34:47.359 --> 02:35:03.040
children and closing schools. I I I really don't understand. I our roads right now our roads are a disaster. I don't think you people understand and no one's really looking at me but um you know our roads are a

543
02:35:03.040 --> 02:35:18.399
disaster right now. My 75-year-old mother does not want to drive because she and I've witnessed it myself. Elderly drivers on the road sandwiched between tractors, trailers and construction vehicles. And this will not stop. And this is not only on Route 9.

544
02:35:18.399 --> 02:35:35.000
This is on 516 and other. >> Okay. So, I just would like to say we need to we need to >> stop. I have to >> you have I have more. I'll be back. >> Thank you. >> Good evening.

545
02:35:36.399 --> 02:35:56.319
>> Excuse me. I have an impediment. Uh Daniel Mayski is my name. So, I just wanted to say that with Councilman uh David Merwin, what he what what he mentioned with the pros and cons of with the data centers and all this stuff. We talked a lot about what the cons were

546
02:35:56.319 --> 02:36:10.880
and I want to just reiterate with the pros what you mentioned about the money, right? But we need to ask the money for whom? Okay. And it's not really for Oldbridge. You get a little bit of tax benefits as a result of this, but you need to, you know, you need to account

547
02:36:10.880 --> 02:36:31.520
for the fact that the home values and other, you know, um, other revenue as a result of putting a data center into place causing the home, you know, every the other the excuse me,

548
02:36:31.520 --> 02:36:48.479
other revenue is going to decrease as a result of putting in a a data center which will basically cancel out any of the benefits. So there's really not a lot of benefits at all if you think about it in that in that point of view. And in terms of who is actually

549
02:36:48.479 --> 02:37:03.280
benefiting, it is the investors in these massive AI companies. It is these technology companies that are benefiting, you know, in the most part. I'm a software engineer and I understand that like these things are being made

550
02:37:03.280 --> 02:37:19.200
because they want to replace jobs. Like that's what it comes down to the fact that they do not think that labor is a cost that should that a business should even bear at all in the first place which is insane if you really think about it. Um and honestly those that are

551
02:37:19.200 --> 02:37:36.319
opposing a ban on the council you assure us that nothing that this it's impossible for a dad you know for it to even occur in the first place. But so so why even have a ban? But as other people you know in the room what they have mentioned is that these things are

552
02:37:36.319 --> 02:37:56.720
basically stuck in at all times in a lot of different a lot of towns. And what might be a zoning rule right now can obviously can change very easily, can have a um I forgot what it was called, but but an

553
02:37:56.720 --> 02:38:13.439
override. You can get an exception put for zoning. And so like that's really not that that feels a bit empty, you know, if you really take that into account. And by the way, so we can build up, you know, attach a nuclear reactor onto, you know, the the these massive

554
02:38:13.439 --> 02:38:29.920
things, but we have to worry about like a natural gas leak potentially happening too. So it's like which one do you really support the you know a sustainable energy system or natural gas? I mean those things you can't hold them at the same time. So

555
02:38:29.920 --> 02:38:52.720
anyway I yield my time. That's it. Thank you. >> Hi Terresa Burns resident. Um I do want to make a couple comments and then I have a few questions. But also it's hot in here, right? Am I the only one? Okay. >> So, I heard a lot about uh AI and the

556
02:38:52.720 --> 02:39:10.720
tech, and I'm not really great with tech, but from what I've seen is that it is inconclusive science um on whether or not there is a correlation with data centers and miscarriages. So, I'm hoping that you guys follow through with that ban until there is some type of uh

557
02:39:10.720 --> 02:39:26.080
scientific evidence on what happens with that. Um, I'm grateful for the comments from the parks and recck department on their commitment to making sure that all the children have access to after school programs and that the seniors are also looking be uh looked out for. Everyone deserves to be part of a community and

558
02:39:26.080 --> 02:39:41.600
live with dignity. I also have a question about the open space tax. If the vote doesn't pass, when will it be placed back on the ballot or would it not? And then uh it was mentioned that the mayor is a safety director. Is there

559
02:39:41.600 --> 02:40:01.920
reports given or anything like that? And then my last statement is happy pride month. Thank you. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. My name is John Shu HSU uh former resident of Obridge. Uh I just like to express my support for a ban for

560
02:40:01.920 --> 02:40:18.800
data centers and I appreciate Councilman Merwin for bringing this issue to the forefront. And I also want to acknowledge what council president uh Mary Sohor said about, you know, not uh making this a partisan issue. Let's not make it a partisan issue. Let's make it

561
02:40:18.800 --> 02:40:34.800
a issue to benefit all residents. I think that's good. That's a good approach. Um you know, there we've seen some issues with the council today. I I won't I don't want to talk about that right now. Um, and you know, being

562
02:40:34.800 --> 02:40:52.560
uh in the forefront, being um um ahead of the game, I think that's important. We we don't know what situations will change down the road. We've seen so many um townships where the data centers were for was forced upon them. And I think being proactive

563
02:40:52.560 --> 02:41:07.840
with this ban, it's a good idea. Uh I just want to talk about the northeast supply the uh the pipeline that's going to go under the raritin. Uh it recently passed uh the Thailand council which is a department under the NJ.

564
02:41:07.840 --> 02:41:24.880
Uh I'd like to say that right now there's a chance to stop it. Mikey Cheryl can stop it. So I encourage people to call her office uh 60929260000000. You could make a quick very quick comment. It could be 5 seconds. say you

565
02:41:24.880 --> 02:41:42.319
you oppose the Nessie pipeline uh or the northeast supply. Um and issues with issue with that well the the sediment it's been denied the water permit's been denied three times already. Issue with that is it's going to pollute the raritin even more. Um, well, this is the

566
02:41:42.319 --> 02:41:57.280
the cleanest the Raritin has been in hundreds of years and the sediment underneath the Raritin Raritin is going to be dredged up and we want to avoid that and uh make things worse for pollution and and the water and you know we we see what's happening right now

567
02:41:57.280 --> 02:42:12.640
with Keyport with their cancer cluster with the with things that are happening right now. So, let's avoid those uh health uh negative health effects. Uh and lastly, I just want to talk about the healthcare just a little bit. Different topic, but uh there is a state

568
02:42:12.640 --> 02:42:35.600
bill. Um let's see, S42, S426, and that would expand Medicare to all residents. Uh this would uh there's already nine senators uh co-sponsoring this bill. Uh we all know

569
02:42:35.600 --> 02:42:51.439
that actually a universal healthcare is actually cheaper for population than the private health insurance. Um we are the only developed country in the world that does not have some sort of universal healthcare. We pay twice the amount per

570
02:42:51.439 --> 02:43:13.920
person than the next country. >> Thank you so much for your comment. >> It's okay. My name is Mariah. Um, I came in regards to the environmental issues, but I stayed in regards to the way you guys behave. I want to know if you guys

571
02:43:13.920 --> 02:43:29.920
are 5 years old because that's how you act, and it's really embarrassing. Um, you guys have children, your parents, and a lot of young people are here today, and a lot of us know your kids, and your kids are really sweet people. And when you come up here and you act the way you act, you tarnish your kid's

572
02:43:29.920 --> 02:43:46.880
name. So, I want you to remember how you're behaving affects your child. Please have some decorum. Okay? Second of all, you guys, we have the opportunity to vote these people out. We cannot let them sit up here argue with each other. We cannot let them sit up

573
02:43:46.880 --> 02:44:03.200
here causing chaos, saying that we're uneducated and then not even knowing what the topic is about or whether there's an upstairs or a downstairs to a AI data center. What are we talking about here? You cannot continue to call us uneducated and not know what you're

574
02:44:03.200 --> 02:44:20.240
talking about. You cannot do that. It's embarrassing for how you guys behave. You already went viral one time for saying some outlandish stuff, right? Do you want that to happen again in one year? No. Right? You're shaking your head cuz no, you don't want that to

575
02:44:20.240 --> 02:44:37.200
happen, right? You're embarrassing us. Please stop. Please stop arguing with each other. Take it to the private rooms. have these conversations behind closed doors because you can see more and more young people are coming and we're we're noting how you guys are acting and we're going to take that

576
02:44:37.200 --> 02:44:52.160
we're going to take our asses to the poll booth and we're going to vote your ass out because the way that you're behaving Anita and Mr. Assatuli the way you two behave on this board is absolutely ridiculous and you could sit up there and grin like John Pork but

577
02:44:52.160 --> 02:45:08.560
it's it's absolutely embarrassing how you guys act. It's embarrassing. And thank you, Mr. Merwin, for bringing this topic to the board today. You guys are pathetic. And honestly, this is why it's so many it's so many young people leaving cuz we don't want to deal with

578
02:45:08.560 --> 02:45:27.920
this. We don't want to deal with you. This is why Obridge has no money because we're not giving you our time. We're not giving you our money. And we're not interested in staying here. Look at how you act. Thank you. Hi, my name is Garrett Tacio and

579
02:45:27.920 --> 02:45:42.560
originally I was here to kind of protest the AI data center, but I need to redirect that because the behavior that I've seen from two council members specifically is absolutely disgusting.

580
02:45:42.560 --> 02:46:00.560
Um, I remember a comment where someone specifically had said, "Oh, you're not that tough. I'm sorry." Is that a way you talk to your constituent? Is that a way that you talk to people who vote you in to borderline threaten them, say you're not that tough? I don't understand, quite frankly.

581
02:46:00.560 --> 02:46:17.920
Oh, you're shaking your head at me like you agree. Okay, then why did you say it? >> Anyways, >> I would like to digress. I am very much against the pipeline that you guys that some of you are for that will tear through my community in the Rarin Bay.

582
02:46:17.920 --> 02:46:33.520
Very much against that. It is not a definite that needs to happen. Dr. Anita, it's not. Thank you. You said that it was necessary. No, that it's just a necessary that needs to happen. >> You're here to destroy, you know, my community, but when it comes to

583
02:46:33.520 --> 02:46:55.600
protecting public land, your community, you're against it. >> Okay. Sure. All right. Thank you. I conclude. Happy Pride. Oldbridge Fresh Taib. Good evening, respected members of the city council, mayor, and township administrators. I'm

584
02:46:55.600 --> 02:47:10.640
here to follow up on the discussion from the last meeting where a resolution was brought forward for an anti-Islamophobia, anti-semitism resolution. But unfortunately, there was no response or clear action taken. Since then, that resolution has been

585
02:47:10.640 --> 02:47:27.920
strengthened and expanded based on the conversation that was had and based on a lot of the input that was given. It is now an anti-all hate resolution because hate cannot be addressed selectively. It must be addressed in all of its forms against all communities without

586
02:47:27.920 --> 02:47:44.640
hesitation or exception. This change matters. Our community deserves leadership that is clear, consistent, and willing to take a firm stand when harm and discrimination show up in any space we share. We are asking the council to acknowledge this revised

587
02:47:44.640 --> 02:48:00.160
resolution, to please review it seriously and to move forward with action rather than silence. Last but not least, thank you so much for agreeing to pass an ordinance banning AI centers and looking out for our vulnerable

588
02:48:00.160 --> 02:48:23.840
populations. Good evening. Hello, my name is Lauren Serszanne. I've lived here since 1984 and we love Old Bridge. Good evening, Mayor, council members, and residents.

589
02:48:23.840 --> 02:48:41.600
I'm here about the data center. It's a 24-hour industrial operation that never shuts down. Virginia has become the testing ground for America's data center. Residents have been reported constant industrial noise, sleepless

590
02:48:41.600 --> 02:48:57.120
nights, vibrations inside their homes, concerned about air quality, and rising uh electricity cost. Data centers operate massive cooling systems, industrial fans, chillers, substations,

591
02:48:57.120 --> 02:49:12.560
backup generators around the clock. Noise levels can range anywhere from 96 dB far exceeding the safety threshold of 40 dB. Thank you. Data centers require massive electrical

592
02:49:12.560 --> 02:49:29.520
infrastructure including substations, transformers, highcapacity transmission mission s uh systems. These systems generate electromagnetic fields or EMFs. International cancer researchers have

593
02:49:29.520 --> 02:49:45.040
classified extremely low frequency magnetic fields as possible human carcinogenic based on studies shown associated with childhood leukemia. I am a breast cancer patient going through

594
02:49:45.040 --> 02:50:00.000
treatment. I've been surviving for a year now. I don't want one of these to come near my home. I pray now. Researchers in Virginia Commonwealth University found that

595
02:50:00.000 --> 02:50:16.720
emissions from these data centers create carbon monoxide, nitrogen, nitrogen oxides and pollutants, approximately 600,000 asthma related symptoms for people and premature

596
02:50:16.720 --> 02:50:33.920
deaths. But these facilities, they really don't belong near I'm sorry. Near Oh, thank you. near homes. And that's why Thank you. You're welcome. >> That's why these communities across

597
02:50:33.920 --> 02:50:48.800
Virginia, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Utah, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other states are fighting back through lawsuits, zoning battles, and citizen opposition groups. The risks are too great. The benefits

598
02:50:48.800 --> 02:51:04.000
too small. And once this facility is built, there is no undo button. This project does not belong near homes, does not belong near families. Let's keep Oldbridge the way we want it. We love

599
02:51:04.000 --> 02:51:23.680
it. We love Old Bridge. Thank you. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. Can you hear me? We have to say our name resident or >> Yes, please. Okay, my name is Maria Kama Wix Obridge resident since 1979.

600
02:51:23.680 --> 02:51:40.000
Okay, so it's a lot to unpack. So I might jump around with a few things. So one in regards to the assessment. So I see now it's 4 million due. Is that due to the fact that we have been 40 years overdue for an assessment? Is this what we can expect going forward? Also, when I looked on the website, I saw we were

601
02:51:40.000 --> 02:51:56.640
pushed back to 2027 if that was correct. for the open space. I heard Mary said it would be a public meeting if the land was to be purchased if the vote passes. But do we as residents get to physically vote during which land is actually purchased or is this left up to town

602
02:51:56.640 --> 02:52:13.040
council planning and voting to choose the land? Um, in regards to the ban of AI center, which thank you for passing first, as referenced turning into a political thing, the data center from 2005, which had to do with data files,

603
02:52:13.040 --> 02:52:28.880
cuz we all know AI didn't exist back then. One, it was not part of a pilot program. So, yes, it would have brought in tax revenue ratables. Two, the only reason it was terminated due to my research because the developer failed to submit their survey results in time. So

604
02:52:28.880 --> 02:52:44.720
now going back to current AI centers trying to come into New Jersey towns. You say the land is not conducive and that an AI one from what I've seen being in this town for 50 plus years. I have seen the farmland on route 9 flipped from farmland into commercial land for

605
02:52:44.720 --> 02:53:01.920
two new warehouses. I have seen the Nike missile base which I have known for the 50 years to be toxic. I've seen a waiver flipped in order to build on top of it. And when you think a developer won't pay what is needed to develop, a developer paid $11 million for toxic land. So

606
02:53:01.920 --> 02:53:17.040
please don't be demisses dismissive of a residents and think things won't happen in Obridge because yes, when I started in OB back in 1979 when we moved there from the Bronx, we had 40,000 residents. We are now up to 71,000 residents. 5.3 million square feet of warehouses who

607
02:53:17.040 --> 02:53:32.640
don't pay taxes. And on top of that, majority of our farms are gone. Do I still got time left? I can't see. Where is it? 50 seconds. >> All right. In reference to what Mark brought up about the car, I work in corporate. What we do is called mileage reimbursement. It saves them money. It's

608
02:53:32.640 --> 02:53:53.760
68 cents per mile cuz this way you don't have to pay insurance. You don't have to buy a car, which we all know the minute you drive off the the land, the car depreciates. So, it saves on insurance purchase of the car and it comes out to a lot less. Thank you. >> Hello, my name is Maria Cobian.

609
02:53:53.760 --> 02:54:08.800
Sorry. Sorry. >> I'm an Oldbridge resident and I'd like to thank council member Merwin for bringing up the AA data center issue and I'd like to ask a question regarding council member Rosolei's um the mayor's car thing. How many times has the mayor

610
02:54:08.800 --> 02:54:26.000
during her tenure used her car for one of the safety emergency things that you guys were bringing up? During your tenure, how many times have you used your car for one of those safety emergencies? >> They don't email. It's not a question. >> Oh, okay. All right. >> Okay. Well, I think it's um I don't

611
02:54:26.000 --> 02:54:42.359
think it's that many emergencies that she showed up to. I can't imagine her showing up to a 3:00 a.m. house fire. And so, I'd like to say it's unfair to everyone else on the board that she gets her gas paid for by the township to drive to and from work and no one else does. So, um that's all

612
02:54:45.200 --> 02:55:00.000
>> Nina Jocknowitz. not going to recapitulate what was said previously by people other than the fact that I look forward to the board being kinder and gentler to our community because it's important that you are so I kind of find myself in a unusual position right now

613
02:55:00.000 --> 02:55:16.800
because finally AGB and I agree on something open space is really important here in Oldbridge and I want to provide one correction to a misstatement that was said in 2010 the Oldbridge voters unfortunately voted to reject the proposal to continued the open space. It

614
02:55:16.800 --> 02:55:32.479
was not the people on the deis. It was unfortunately the the the voters. But I'm going to go beyond that. It was not Jim Phillips. It was not the Democrats. It was the the residents. I certainly hope that this will not be the case this November. I do hope in November the residents of the community do understand

615
02:55:32.479 --> 02:55:48.479
the need for a continuing open space here in town. The $30 a house, I'd be happy to pay for a few houses if they can't afford it. By that said, by but that also brings me to a different um point in discussion here tonight. I have been asking for almost five years now

616
02:55:48.479 --> 02:56:05.120
for you guys to finish up the the negotiations on the energy consortium which would be lowering our bills here are electric bills here in town for all the residents. We voted on that. It was a a popular vote and the community asked you to do this negotiation. Now, I have

617
02:56:05.120 --> 02:56:22.000
been asking for quite a bit of time for you guys to give me an update or give our community an update and for you to complete this. I don't know what's taking so long. I I know that I've asked for meetings. They said this year they keep saying they pushing it off, pushing

618
02:56:22.000 --> 02:56:36.080
it off, pushing it off. I'd love to have them. You know, you say, "Oh, come in, have a meeting." Well, it's never happened. I wonder why. So, I would appreciate if you would provide us with an update on the contract, when it's

619
02:56:36.080 --> 02:56:54.479
going to be done, and and u um in the next council meeting. I am so sorry. I got lost in my my uh my energy. Sorry. Um I'd appreciate if you come in with a clear plan, real timeline. Our residents deserve this courtesy and by the majority followup by and for you

620
02:56:54.479 --> 02:57:11.040
guys to follow up on this. Okay. Um, by the by the way, for the mayor to f have a car cart blanch, I don't really think it's necessary because you don't direct the fire, the police, or the ambulances in town. So, you can do just what everybody else does. Come to town, pick up your car, and go to the event, the

621
02:57:11.040 --> 02:57:26.000
emergency. Um, by the way, I don't know if any of you remember it, some people may not, but Gene McCullen from many years ago used to ask us in debates, what are you going to do on the day to stop the bickering? You guys don't seem to be following his

622
02:57:26.000 --> 02:57:42.319
direction. I I know Mary, you remember, Dean. I do. Um, I would appreciate if you stop the bickering, yawning, gaslighting, ignoring the community. I think we all do. And by the way, to a reminder to you folks, you are all invited to our Pride ball we're having

623
02:57:42.319 --> 02:57:58.240
on Friday, this Friday here in the township center. It is free of charge. There will be I know there will be uh >> That's it. Thank you so much. Next. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. >> Everybody's waiting. Good evening.

624
02:57:58.240 --> 02:58:17.439
>> Hi. I have two things to say. First off, >> good. I'm much taller. >> First off, what I think Murin did on social media, I don't think he was trying to say a dog and pony show. I think >> Can you just state your name for me, sir? >> Oh, Zack Comr. I'm a resident. What I think Murin was doing on social media, I

625
02:58:17.439 --> 02:58:32.720
don't think that he was trying to rile people up. I think that this is an important discussion to have in this town. Secondly, I don't think that it's right to bring up a discussion from 2008 and bringing up Democrats and Republicans about that a data center in

626
02:58:32.720 --> 02:58:50.720
2008 is so much more different than AI data center today. Thank you. >> Hi, my name is Kelly Tassy. I'm an old bridge uh township resident. I want to I don't know if this is the right word, but how about we put a variance forward

627
02:58:50.720 --> 02:59:08.000
for the elderly in the community and disabled vets when it comes to housing when you drawing up the contracts that they have to follow certain procedures and standards because I think it's very important to give back to the seniors in this in this community and the disabled

628
02:59:08.000 --> 02:59:24.160
vets because without disabled vets, we wouldn't be here and hopefully we'll all be seniors one day. Um, so instead of going back and renegotiating contracts which takes away time and money and you know everything comes undone, I think

629
02:59:24.160 --> 02:59:40.760
why don't we set the pace for taking care of our elders now and our disabled vets going forward. And uh, happy pride and my son is very tough. You have no idea how tough he is. Thank you.

630
02:59:44.000 --> 02:59:59.040
Uh, good evening. Uh, Dan Erggo, Orbridgeidge resident, Mayor Walker. Thank you for your service. Um, first of all, I was not offended by any of the actions by the council because I sat here like an adult quietly listened to discussions and spoke now where I'm

631
02:59:59.040 --> 03:00:14.479
allowed to speak. So, yeah. And I think it's important to bring up council members children. I I think that's disgusting. But what I want to talk about, I'm going to get off the AI data data centers. Uh, I want to talk to you tonight about the man Democrats in our district chose as their front runner for

632
03:00:14.479 --> 03:00:31.600
the CD CD12 congressional seat. But first, let me be clear about who we're dealing with. The blind chic, Omar Abdel Rakman, was the spiritual leader of Al Jama Al-Islama, a radical terrorist organization. He was the mastermind behind the first World Trade Center

633
03:00:31.600 --> 03:00:48.240
bombing in 1993. Six Americans were killed and over a thousand were injured. and District 12's new Democrat nominee was his interpreter. But it doesn't stop there. Dr. Hamway was a defense witness in court. He also helped the blind chic

634
03:00:48.240 --> 03:01:04.000
at press conferences and talking to media. He once said, quote, he was an old blind man who needed services, so we volunteered to help him. End quote. Dr. Hamway also said once, quote, he didn't always speak death and destruction. He

635
03:01:04.000 --> 03:01:20.800
sometimes spoke other views. End quote. So, according to Dr. Hamway, our possible next congressman, as long as you don't speak death to America all the time, you're a-okay in his book. Uh, not only that, he went on to work for a nonprofit, which was proven by uh national intelligence agencies was a

636
03:01:20.800 --> 03:01:36.479
front for al-Qaeda, funneling money to Osama bin Laden. And now he's taken endorsements and campaigned with people like Hassan a radical extremist who has said America deserves 9/11 and who and who when talking about Republicans said, and I quote, "Kill

637
03:01:36.479 --> 03:01:51.760
them. Kill those mother effers. Let the ground be soaked with their red capitalist blood." End quote. Uh, so my question goes to Democrats in our district. If you're willing to put I'm sorry, my question goes to residents in our

638
03:01:51.760 --> 03:02:07.600
district. If Democrats are willing to put this type of person in Congress, why would you ever think for a second that they care about you? And my second question goes, it was going to go to both Democrats on the council, but Sai's not here. Uh, Mr. Mwin, do you endorse

639
03:02:07.600 --> 03:02:25.120
Dr. Hamway for Congress after hearing all this information? And how do you justify putting him as the representative in our United States Congress for your constituents? Thank you. >> Hey, listen. That's it. That's it. Enough. Hey, listen. Someone's got to do something because we can't have this

640
03:02:25.120 --> 03:02:40.880
here. You know, stop one moment. You want two-way street and you're screaming and yelling. Ask them to leave next time. >> That's it. >> No. You want to scream, you want to yell, you want to go from the background and you talk about us. We're doing it because of you. You do that again, they got to ask them to leave. >> Please ask them out.

641
03:02:40.880 --> 03:02:58.000
>> Act like adults. >> Enough. >> You're the president. >> Sorry, ma'am. Go ahead. >> Please speak. you have your time. >> My name is Chelsea Piazio. I'm a resident. Uh this is me and my son's first attendance here. Uh we're pretty

642
03:02:58.000 --> 03:03:15.120
new to the town. Um came with just an open mind, no agenda, no real plan. Just wanted to learn learn about each of you. Uh learn about what we were talking about this evening. I feel like I learned a lot um not just about all of you, but also um about our town.

643
03:03:15.120 --> 03:03:30.240
um not necessarily the act that I wanted to follow, but I was really taken aback. Um you know, this isn't a like reality show, right? There is a way that we are supposed to conduct ourselves that is

644
03:03:30.240 --> 03:03:46.640
productive. This time took so much longer than it should have. This was my son's first experience in local government and I was really looking forward to it being a positive experience. and the way everyone I feel behaved was not very bipartisan. It was not very

645
03:03:46.640 --> 03:04:03.840
full of community and that really hurt to see. Um, and I just wanted to give my thoughts on that and hope that everyone can reflect. Everyone here is passionate and it's beautiful that everyone showed up about things that they are passionate about and that should be rewarded.

646
03:04:03.840 --> 03:04:19.920
And I understand that all of you have to deal with us on a regular basis and that it can be difficult. You know, it's points tonight felt like parks and recreation a bit. Um, and I appreciate, you know, your patience through this and I appreciate our town's patience and everyone showing up today to talk about

647
03:04:19.920 --> 03:04:37.200
things that they care about. Um, but again, right, we want to make sure that we're working together and we don't do that by shouting over one another, shouting at each other, speaking aggressively, and being unkind. >> Thank you.

648
03:04:40.880 --> 03:04:58.160
My name is Antonio Carvalo. I'm a resident of Bbridge for nearly 40 years. I'm born and educated in New Jersey. When I was a kid, I got to work in the greatest and largest premier data centers in the world, Bell Labs and

649
03:04:58.160 --> 03:05:15.040
Lucen Technologies, right here in New Jersey. They didn't make noise. They didn't use water and we didn't have the power supplies that we have today. Okay. If everybody wants to demonize data centers, they should give up their

650
03:05:15.040 --> 03:05:30.240
phones because there's literally thousands of data centers in New Jersey. Could start with the government. We could start with all the pharmaceutical research companies in New Jersey, all the office buildings.

651
03:05:30.240 --> 03:05:45.760
We can go outside here today and shut down that cell tower because that cell tower has a data center right at the bottom and it uses so much compute power that it has to have a chiller right next to it and a battery backup for your convenience. Everybody, you want to be

652
03:05:45.760 --> 03:06:00.640
something, give up your cell phone. >> Gladly. >> Give it up. >> All right, here we go. >> I don't see anybody doing it though. >> Okay. >> Okay. Sorry. So now we'll start with the government, >> but I want to keep this government cuz

653
03:06:00.640 --> 03:06:16.080
remember you gave us nearly a 2% reduction in our property taxes, >> right? >> And when you did the warehousing and the the golf course and the shopping center you gave us, that stopped nearly thousands of homes from being built in

654
03:06:16.080 --> 03:06:31.920
that we already got millions of dollars taken out of our school system from the state. The county raised our taxes 23%. Okay, I wouldn't mind having one of those in my backyard. I don't have to listen to my neighbors. That's long-term

655
03:06:31.920 --> 03:06:47.439
storage you put there. You don't have traffic going when I used to work at Proctor and Gamble, you have trucks coming in and out. Okay, that was fantastic. Not only my taxes go up $1,000 because we have to make up the shortfall for ch for for the

656
03:06:47.439 --> 03:07:04.080
school, but that would have been thousands of dollars more on our taxes to make up the shortfall to put those kids through school because everybody keeps taking their money out of Albridge. Okay? So before you demonize data centers, remember there's not a single

657
03:07:04.080 --> 03:07:20.960
one of you that don't work for a company that doesn't have a data center. You data center is a fancy word. All it means is a building with computers. And if you want to get into the AI already, Elon Musk already spread the word that we can't have AI turned on because it

658
03:07:20.960 --> 03:07:36.319
would kill us in a heartbeat. Alls we're getting is fancy programming, indexed data. I'm an old guy. I've been doing this for years in the IT industry. Don't demonize things. We're burning books here. should not be known to be burning

659
03:07:36.319 --> 03:07:57.439
books cuz what comes after burning books is deadly. It's all I got to say. I want to thank you very much for keeping my taxes down. >> I'm not sure what town he lives in, but okay. >> I live in 40 years.

660
03:07:57.439 --> 03:08:13.680
>> Me, too. >> It was chicken coops and farmland. >> Okay, so it's my time. I'm Jessica Nent. I know some of you up there. I just want to say thank you. Thank you for the ban. I really appreciate it. And I'm going to continue to post on Facebook anything I hear from anybody because that's the

661
03:08:13.680 --> 03:08:28.960
beauty of the First Amendment, right? I'm allowed to do that. And I really got to give credit for all the young people that came out. That's the future of Oldbridge. That's who will vote you back in, right? So, the second I hear something, I'm

662
03:08:28.960 --> 03:08:44.479
going to make a nice little sheet and I'm going to put it on Facebook. cuz I was the one who did all that. So, but thank you. I really appreciate it. I thank you, David. I thank you, Eric. I know who voted not to ban it, but um

663
03:08:44.479 --> 03:09:05.359
thank you. >> Good evening. Uh oh, sorry. Is this on? >> Sorry. Good evening, uh Mayor Walker. Um, distinguished uh, council members, um, my name is Vincent Chia Sulo and I am a lifelong resident of Oldbridge of

664
03:09:05.359 --> 03:09:22.399
22 years. Born and raised, proud of my town. I love my town. I love this state. I love this country. I wasn't originally going to Can I take the microphone off by the way? Okay. Sound. Thank you. I wasn't

665
03:09:22.399 --> 03:09:37.200
going to originally speak tonight. Sorry. But until I saw the lady that came in with the with the kid. Um, she had said something that really inspired me

666
03:09:37.200 --> 03:09:52.960
that and this is really in in attention to the audience that was constantly shouting over the the town council. I thought it was extremely disrespectful of the audience to do that. And there were some people that had opinions in

667
03:09:52.960 --> 03:10:10.160
here that did not fit the narrative of the audience. And that gentleman was booed as well. And I think that this this really reflects this the polarization of the country within the last couple decades or so. And

668
03:10:10.160 --> 03:10:27.040
I really well that that child really really really like hit home because she had said that it was his first experience of government and she wanted it for him to be positive. So I'm assuming this was a very negative

669
03:10:27.040 --> 03:10:44.479
experience for him. No thanks to the audience. But let's say this child sees another meeting like this and another meeting like this and another meeting like this and he the child is eventually going to get uh notice a negative pattern and

670
03:10:44.479 --> 03:11:06.880
people like that are going to be t deterred from getting involved in public service or politics and that's really all I have to say. Thank you and have a great night. Shannon from Manantia Oldbridge. Um, thank you, Mr. Merwin. Um, first off, if

671
03:11:06.880 --> 03:11:24.000
when you guys do put the uh levy on the ballot, if you could just uh consider specifying that it's going to be the $30 a year so that people know that for sure. So, it's not a question because if they just see levy, you know, they they won't know what that's about and maybe

672
03:11:24.000 --> 03:11:40.880
vote against it. Um, also, um, I just had a question as far, and I don't you answer afterwards, if we're doing this ban, which is phenomenal. Can in the process while you're still making this paperwork, can people put in

673
03:11:40.880 --> 03:11:56.880
paperwork for applications while that's in process? So, that's what I want to know cuz that's a possibility then. Um, and then also I just also wanted to say I'm going to back up the Facebook posts also because this is how we communicate.

674
03:11:56.880 --> 03:12:14.319
This is how people get to know things and we're putting THE WORD OUT THERE and people showed up and that's what's going to happen. Thank you. >> Hi, Joan Hagenowski. I live in Old Bridge 48 years now. First, I want to just talk about the

675
03:12:14.319 --> 03:12:30.560
open space. I just want to know, well, I'm not even asking the question. I just like to state that when you buy a properties, buy on all different parts of the town so that one town, one part of the town isn't like a country club and the rest are all like factories and and cities.

676
03:12:30.560 --> 03:12:46.399
Let's do, you know, disperse it around the town. Lawrence Harour, Southbridge, Madawan, every whatever we're going to save, let's save it all over, not in just one section. the data center, the noise. There are a lot of children in

677
03:12:46.399 --> 03:13:01.840
Oldbridge. I see it through the school because my grandson, two of my grandsons have autism. There's a lot of kids with autism, anxiety, ADHD. And if that buzzing is going on, they don't like any noise like that. So, what are these kids supposed to do? sleep with their

678
03:13:01.840 --> 03:13:16.080
earphones on because there's too much vibration and noise or go outside and not be able to play or possibly get hurt going outside riding their bike and they have ear, you know, earbuds in. We got to really like look at that. There's not

679
03:13:16.080 --> 03:13:34.160
enough research to put it I'm sorry to put that in. We don't know all the outcome. Everybody went on Ozmpic and now you find out how bad OMIC is two years later. So, let's just pay attention to that. As far as the town council goes, I've been here with Mayor

680
03:13:34.160 --> 03:13:52.160
Canon and Azerello Henny or Haney Hen Owen Henry and I don't even remember who else. There was there was bickering, but not what I saw tonight. I haven't been to a town council meeting in probably over a year, but it got to stop. And you know,

681
03:13:52.160 --> 03:14:09.359
every I watch it on TV. She's I hate even saying it, but she really makes comments to everybody. So, I think we have to It can't be political on everything we're voting for. It can't be the Democrat. We all wanted the Democrats wanted in 2007 and now the

682
03:14:09.359 --> 03:14:26.720
Republicans want it in 2026. It can't be that way. It has to be for the welfare and benefit of the whole community. It's almost like you want to say who drank the Kool-Aid that's that's doing this that they don't want to like look past their political party and are not

683
03:14:26.720 --> 03:14:43.200
looking out for the benefit of the town. And the last thing I want to say like seriously is the car. My husband was a um volunteer fireman. He became deputy chief for years. He was chief for like four years and he went to work for the board of fire commissioners. We always

684
03:14:43.200 --> 03:14:59.760
had a car. doesn't mean he used it to go to the freehold mall or to go to Middle Sex or go to the movies. He used it for when he needed it and for her to take a car to go to a fire. Yes, she's not directing the fire company or telling somebody how to extricate somebody out

685
03:14:59.760 --> 03:15:15.920
of a car, but she's there for the family that is now in stress over it. So for her to have a car parked in front of her house, it's it's so ridiculous to take that away from her when it's sort of if you're saying this is volunteer. I lived volunteer. My husband, we joined the

686
03:15:15.920 --> 03:15:36.239
fire company in the first aid squad in 1983. He was a fireman and on fire inspector until he died in 2011. We always had a car in front of house. We didn't use it for anything else. Oh, I'm sorry. My time is up. Okay. I didn't intend to be the last speaker.

687
03:15:36.239 --> 03:15:52.880
I just didn't want to stand in line. Um I'm Kathy Reek and proud Lawrence Harbor resident. Um I I appreciate this meeting. I think it's really good to give the people their voice. hopefully

688
03:15:52.880 --> 03:16:09.760
not such rowdy terms, but um I think personally for me, I need more transparency about what's going on in my community that I want to support and I want to stay here. So, um, possibly if if

689
03:16:09.760 --> 03:16:25.520
I don't know, newsletters, flyers, something coming out somewhere somehow to let us know a little bit more about these amendments rather than having to read them on the website and try to decipher all the l legal ease. It would

690
03:16:25.520 --> 03:16:40.720
be helpful for a lot of us, I think. Um, I'm really amazed at how many young people were here today. Um, when I was that age, I think I just hid in a corner and just didn't know what was going on.

691
03:16:40.720 --> 03:16:57.680
So, um, I'm glad to see our future wanting to get involved. Um, to the point of open space, just remember that we're the garden state, not the warehouse state, please. Um,

692
03:16:57.680 --> 03:17:15.840
and as far as Anna and this the senior housing, I have just a point to bring up to that. If that apartment complex is going to be going through massive renovations, will that expense be incurred as an

693
03:17:15.840 --> 03:17:37.520
additional rental charge to the residents? Otherwise, they're not going to be able to afford to stay there if their rent is going to be increased to cover the renovation costs. Thank you all. >> All right. Okay. Seeing no one else, I

694
03:17:37.520 --> 03:17:52.640
will now close public portion and we'll go on to council comments. >> Need a motion to close. >> Okay. Yes, I need a motion to close. >> Moved by council vice president Dr. Greenberg. Second by Councilman Bonstatton. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Hearing none. The public

695
03:17:52.640 --> 03:18:09.279
comment portion is now closed. >> Council member comments. Councilman Asatuli. >> Sure. Good evening. Thank you everybody for coming tonight. I'm glad we can have a conversation and that's what we're supposed to do. So hopefully we when we leave here we can shake hands and move

696
03:18:09.279 --> 03:18:25.040
on. But I want to address something, and that's the growing level of hostility and rhetoric we've been seeing at these public meetings. Time and time again, people come here and on social media and throw around

697
03:18:25.040 --> 03:18:41.439
labels like, "You're a racist. You're a fascist, you're a Nazi, a white supremist. We need to get rid of him. I have receipts." These are serious accusations.

698
03:18:41.439 --> 03:18:56.399
I have screenshots. They shouldn't be used casually against people simply because they disagree with you politically. We condemn hatred, violence, anti-semitism, islamophobia,

699
03:18:56.399 --> 03:19:14.000
homophobia, racism, and political violence in all forms. I am very passionate about that. But we should also recognize that constantly demonizing our neighbors and our elected officials creates division and fuels

700
03:19:14.000 --> 03:19:31.439
anger much more than solutions. Think about it this way. If you invited to someone's home and immediately started calling their family Nazis and fascist without even knowing them, most people would find that offensive and extremely disrespectful.

701
03:19:31.439 --> 03:19:48.960
Yet some people come to the meetings and and and on social media and do exactly like that to people on the deis and it's not cool. The residents of Oakidge deserve better. They want us talking about public safety, affordable

702
03:19:48.960 --> 03:20:06.640
housing, responsible development, quality schools, infrastructure, parks, taxes, and making this town stronger and more prosperous. Those are the issues that affects people's daily lives. Instead, too much

703
03:20:06.640 --> 03:20:22.319
time is spent on personal attacks and national political arguments that have nothing to do to solve local problems. You see, ladies and gentlemen, respect goes both ways. It's a two-way street. If we want unity, we need to stop

704
03:20:22.319 --> 03:20:37.920
assuming the worst about one another. We can disagree strongly on policy without questioning each other's character or labeling people as enemies. We need, and that's including me and everybody here, the temperature needs to

705
03:20:37.920 --> 03:20:53.840
go down. That is why tonight I had to stop it. You don't have to yell from the background. You don't have to talk about people's children. Yeah, you don't do that. It's not cool. People have families up here, daughters,

706
03:20:53.840 --> 03:21:10.560
sons. Not cool. On this deis, I don't think anyone, and I will speak for everyone myself, not a single person on here from this day deis has ever said anything about any of you from here.

707
03:21:10.560 --> 03:21:25.200
Let's focus on solutions, ladies and gentlemen, not insults. Let's focus on making Obridge safer, stronger, and more affordable for the people that live here. Ladies and gentlemen, PS. Based on the rhetoric that goes on,

708
03:21:25.200 --> 03:21:43.600
people are dying. We're labeling people and people get hurt. We see it. You've seen so much political violence for what? You have the freedom to be who you want to be in this great country. No one

709
03:21:43.600 --> 03:21:59.760
stops you be from becoming the best version of yourself. Nobody stops you from going after your dreams and living the life that you want. That's what the thing about America is. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And I promise you, not a single one of us on

710
03:21:59.760 --> 03:22:19.840
this day will stop you from having that life. I yield my time. Thank you, >> Coun Councilman De Palmer. >> Thank you, Kate. I'll try to be as short as I can. Um, just thank the residents for coming out. Um, this forum obviously

711
03:22:19.840 --> 03:22:36.800
things got a little bit heated tonight on on certain aspects, but this forum is where you need to come and voice your opinions. Obviously, there are no deaf ears up here. We may not always agree on everything, but there are no deaf ears. So, thank you all for coming out. Um,

712
03:22:36.800 --> 03:22:53.520
and just for all of our students, especially our high school uh seniors that are graduating, good luck at graduation. I hope everyone had a wonderful time at prom. I know uh Sandberg had their eighth grade dance last night. Uh they were picking my my

713
03:22:53.520 --> 03:23:10.319
daughter up at at the dance at the Grand Marquee. I felt extremely old. So, but thank you, Mark, for telling me I'm old. But, uh I think it's a wonderful thing all the stuff that we have going on with with the students. So, high school graduation coming up as

714
03:23:10.319 --> 03:23:29.120
well as our Samberg and and Sulk students as well as our Catholic school students. Good luck. Have a wonderful summer. Uh, and finally, let's go Knicks. Thank you, >> Councilman Merwin. >> Yes. First, I want to thank the fellow

715
03:23:29.120 --> 03:23:45.359
council members that listened to the public today and they voted for the ban on the uh to put the data centers up for an ordinance which we'll vote on in the public uh in the future. It was not banned today. An ordinance has to be

716
03:23:45.359 --> 03:24:02.080
made and there'll be a couple of meetings yet that first reading, second reading and so keep an eye out. I want to thank the public for coming out and voicing their concerns. Um, now to the

717
03:24:02.080 --> 03:24:17.600
public information section. Hot off the press. The EPA has entered into an agreement with USS which is the Army Corps of Engineering to contract for the seaw wall sector and for the emergency uh

718
03:24:17.600 --> 03:24:33.359
engineering design also called remedial design for the jetty section cleanup in the Lawrence Harbor Beach front. Um they they've um set a timeline of fall

719
03:24:33.359 --> 03:24:50.239
of 2026. EPA intends to award the contract for the cleanup work the winter 2026 to spring 2027. The contractor develops work plan pending fall 20 pending the fall 2026 contract award and

720
03:24:50.239 --> 03:25:06.960
then the work will start late spring early summer 2027 again with the caveat that depending on whether they give the contract out. Um that's a big deal. That's a big deal. All right,

721
03:25:06.960 --> 03:25:23.439
>> Councilman. >> Now to >> I'm sorry. I didn't realize you weren't finished. I apologize. >> And to that point, um, Anna, the community building, how we doing with that or we got to coexist there? What what's got to happen? Or

722
03:25:23.439 --> 03:25:39.200
>> so the the Cheesequake project, the the the Jetty Creek that you're mentioning, that's by the uh police substation. So that's where they're going to be stationed. We've met with the Army Corps of Engineers several times with Nicole Shapiro. So, that project is going to be there. Shouldn't affect the project that

723
03:25:39.200 --> 03:25:55.840
we'll have ongoing at the community center. We're going to be having a meeting later this summer to start talking about the next steps for that project. I know the original design plans um kind of got put to the side because there was talks about potentially having a library on the second floor, but the grant funding

724
03:25:55.840 --> 03:26:11.840
wouldn't allow for that. So, we're kind of working over the plans now and we hope to start breaking ground sometime early next year uh as well. But it shouldn't interfere with what they have going on if if we decide to start >> the next project is the the the the

725
03:26:11.840 --> 03:26:26.560
waterfront in >> the beach cleanup. Correct. But the beach cleanup, we'll make sure that however it works out either happens concurrently so there's less interruptions in the area as possible. Um but if we're ready to kick off next spring on that, we'll we'll start. Yeah,

726
03:26:26.560 --> 03:26:45.520
but the jetty project is going to be by the substation. >> Okay, very good. I appreciate that. >> Yep. >> And um the um I just want to say happy Pride Month. >> That's

727
03:26:45.520 --> 03:27:01.600
Councilman Pasitti. >> No comment. Thank you. >> Councilman Rosie. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. I just want to thank everybody for coming tonight. um being concerned about your property value. It's irrelevant what party you belong to. I think we're all in the same boat.

728
03:27:01.600 --> 03:27:16.479
We don't want anything built near our homes that could jeopardize that's your that's your retirement potentially. That's your long-term investment. And uh Lauren, I want to wish you the best in your battle in cancer. I'm sorry. I should address you first. My apologies, but good luck. That terrible disease. I

729
03:27:16.479 --> 03:27:32.000
wish you the best. And everybody enjoy the rest of your summer. We're looking at finally some warm weather. And don't get caught up in all the uh political banner goes back and forth. Listen, you came here for your agenda. You achieved what you had to come. We all agreed upon it. We worked together and we got past

730
03:27:32.000 --> 03:27:47.760
the nonsense. And uh feel free to always reach out to me. If you anyone you speak to, I never ask you you're a party affiliation, but in fact, when someone calls me a councilman, they call me on the phone, I tell them, "Call me Mark or I'll hang up on you because we're all we're all together in this, you know, one community." And I wish you the best.

731
03:27:47.760 --> 03:28:06.319
Thank you, >> Councilman Bonstatton. >> Thank you. Uh I'm going to be very brief because this has been a long meeting. So, um I do want to thank Matt Parks and Rex and the administration for uh working so hard to get that Green Acres grant approved for the Tytown project.

732
03:28:06.319 --> 03:28:23.120
Um I do see some uh parents of some players, former players, board members. So the board is they I just informed them they are extremely excited for this project. It's going to benefit a lot of kids in town. So thank you again for all

733
03:28:23.120 --> 03:28:38.319
of your hard work and getting those grants. Um I want to thank the OB uh the police department for addressing a parking issue near Vorhees that a resident brought up. Um there's those yellow curbs by the school and they were parking and throwing garbage in this gentleman's home. So thank you for

734
03:28:38.319 --> 03:28:53.920
enforcing the no parking there. Um, we had our parks and wreck meeting last week. Uh, discussion was mainly focused on the Bets Park improvements. Uh, there's quite a few improvements going on at Bets Park. Uh, I took a drove over there this past weekend and the progress

735
03:28:53.920 --> 03:29:09.680
is moving along very nicely. I think by what July, Anna, it should be done by early July. Great. >> Before camp starts. Okay. Way before. Awesome. And then on June 12th at uh 7:30, the bridge symphonic band will have their um

736
03:29:09.680 --> 03:29:24.800
spring summer concert over at the senior center. I know that conflicts with the pride disco that you guys are having from 6:00 to 9:00. Um please come and attend if you want to see both. Um all different types of music will be played. I think there's some Lady Gaga music being played along with some America

737
03:29:24.800 --> 03:29:42.080
Americana music. So please attend. And lastly, since we're not meeting until the end of June, I want to congratulate all the high school, middle school, and fifth grade graduates, and best of luck in your next step in your education. Thanks, >> council vice president, Dr. Greenberg, Bellai.

738
03:29:42.080 --> 03:29:58.560
>> Yes. I wanted to mention that it was an honor to be with the grand marshall um at our Memorial Day parade, Joe Chaffron. Um you really would benefit if you watch our local television and listen to his speech. I mean for 94 years old, he didn't write anything. He

739
03:29:58.560 --> 03:30:15.359
spoke from his heart and he spoke excellently and it would be really good to see. And in that light also um if you want to donate to disabled veterans um the individual in this in this area is Ken Sullivan. He's with the Fort Mammoth Memorial Chapter and his number is

740
03:30:15.359 --> 03:30:34.560
9086136484. So also I wanted to say that it is unfortunate and anyone could say this is political but this is from my heart when their governor goes on Memorial Day to a detention center instead of a VA

741
03:30:34.560 --> 03:30:50.160
hospital. It is mindboggling to me. It is disgusting and it is embarrassing and I just can't even imagine that you don't put the people that gave us our freedoms first. People don't understand. This is

742
03:30:50.160 --> 03:31:05.680
the most amazing country. Why do you think people are pouring into this country? They want to criticize it, call us all sorts of names, whatever it is, but this is a country that's accepting and has opportunity. And as Darren said,

743
03:31:05.680 --> 03:31:22.880
it's the land of the free. Free free to have your liberty, free to pursue happiness, but also you have to respect our laws. and for to go to a detention center. It would behoove everyone also to read the 911 commission report.

744
03:31:22.880 --> 03:31:39.439
Please do that. Every politician should do it and honestly every American should do it. It is unfortunate that we are putting the priority of illegal people even criminals again uh before citizens and once again our governor did that

745
03:31:39.439 --> 03:31:56.720
when we talked here about money local. No, no. This this affects us locally. This affects us loc when you take $20 million for the defense the detention deportion defension initiative. That's

746
03:31:56.720 --> 03:32:11.920
$20 million when the schools they took money away from our schools. This is the problem. >> Thank you. YOU'RE BEING OVER. THANK YOU. Thank you. This is the problem. That's the problem. That's why the kid was upset. >> This is the This is the problem. You

747
03:32:11.920 --> 03:32:27.760
take away taxpayer dollars in Albridge that you're sending money to the state and it's being taken away from our schools. What else are we supposed to do? Where are we getting the money from? This is a real problem. Everything is connected in government. And if you

748
03:32:27.760 --> 03:32:45.040
don't see how it's connected, it's a problem throughout the whole state. Once again, we have a $60.5 billion budget. Giving money to do this. That's a priority. you're not thinking of your people who elected you, of the residents, the taxpayers of your state.

749
03:32:45.040 --> 03:32:59.359
This is a problem. And when you come here also, you have to understand there was someone who came up about open space that was in um 2010. There was an open space tax in Bridge. That's how you could buy land. We bought land during

750
03:32:59.359 --> 03:33:15.840
that period with Barbara Cannon and that was sunseted under Jimmy Phillips, the mayor, myself and and council president. We tried to get it back on the ballot in 2010 and the residents voted down. We hope now people

751
03:33:15.840 --> 03:33:32.160
went they understand when there's land you can't buy it if you don't have money. First of all, you can only buy land where there's land available and you can only buy land if someone's willing you to sell your land. If not, that's like you can't take private land

752
03:33:32.160 --> 03:33:48.880
unless there's an agreement there. So, these are the things that people have to realize. Everything is connected and there's reasons and there's laws and and that's why we have to really consider. So, there's so much to talk about and I just wish when like when you think about

753
03:33:48.880 --> 03:34:05.359
everything, the money even from the federal government, the Lawrence Harbor Beach front, it's been polluted for 40 years. Could you imagine you haven't used the beach? I I fish in in um Atlantic Highlands. You think the fish just stay in Atlantic like in that area? They go down there. So, if it was such a

754
03:34:05.359 --> 03:34:20.000
big problem, why'd you wait? Well, you could have encapsulated it. You haven't used the beach for 40 years. It's a tragedy. But here's the tragedy. the federal government and our our count um our congressman Frank Palone, he did he

755
03:34:20.000 --> 03:34:35.200
sent the the congressman there, he did not go to get us more money. Do you know they're giving $30 million to um Perth Amboy? Maybe you can talk to him, councilman. I'd appreciate if you did. They're not giving that much to us to clean up. It's going to be a burden on

756
03:34:35.200 --> 03:34:52.000
us, the taxpayer again. So, there's so much to pay for, but it is so much that you have to know to think about. Everything is connected and we want the best for the residents in this town and everyone and we have been called a lot of names. It just rolls right off me. It doesn't bother me. I still have to do my

757
03:34:52.000 --> 03:35:08.160
work. I still have to do what's right for every resident in this town and I will do that. So, I want to thank you for coming tonight. Your voices are heard. We do have respect for you. We don't have respect for all the craziness. And the reason why I said what I said tonight because there could

758
03:35:08.160 --> 03:35:25.040
have been a discussion when everything's not on Facebook. Don't believe everything on Facebook. A lot of thing is Facebook. You can get the information. You can call administration. There's websites you can go to. But when you say it came out like we were approving data centers, none of

759
03:35:25.040 --> 03:35:42.479
us had that on there at all. We were blindsided by it also. And that's why I brought it up in that perspective. I was saying also when you look at back at history, I had the history of what it was. I had to explain how it is. It's not picking sides. It's being factual.

760
03:35:42.479 --> 03:35:58.880
So that is what I'm doing is being factual. So I'm sorry if I offended everyone, but all I was doing was stating the facts. So I wish everyone a beautiful s beginning of summer and I wish you many blessings for a a speedy get through this. You're going to be

761
03:35:58.880 --> 03:36:15.760
fine. Council Council President Sohar, we'll just thank everyone for coming this evening and I know sometimes it does become a little contentious but when you know they're saying like behind closed doors

762
03:36:15.760 --> 03:36:32.800
kind of solve it. That's not we transparency is really important and you know sometimes you do get yourself in a place and you're a little overly emotional perhaps but we are really you know trying to do the best that we can and it is a little frustrating when

763
03:36:32.800 --> 03:36:48.560
sometimes narratives are written that you're thinking who why you know if we were already in some I'm not saying anyone here but just in posts that were sent to me as well that we were already tried and and and everything that we

764
03:36:48.560 --> 03:37:03.920
were going to, you know, do this with the data center. Not one person said, "Well, let's wait for the conversation and see what happens." You know, that's what I was upset about. I You have every right to put what you think your opinion. That's fine. But just think, we

765
03:37:03.920 --> 03:37:20.479
wanted to have the conversation here in the chamber. So, you could sit here long as it might be and you could listen and you could participate. It wasn't meant for anything else. disseminating information is a good idea. Absolutely. But then when you see how sometimes it

766
03:37:20.479 --> 03:37:37.279
gets so twisted, you're like, why? Why can't we just say come and and we'll talk? I that was what my point was. It wasn't anything disparaging against anybody. People have a right to post and speak and that's fine. But I thought it would be better just put out the

767
03:37:37.279 --> 03:37:53.359
information and then come and listen. Don't already judge me before I even got to the seat. you know, that was how I felt tonight. But anyway, at that being said, I hope everyone has a great, you know, summertime. Um, congratulations to all the graduates and let's hope that

768
03:37:53.359 --> 03:38:08.720
this is, you know, this is going to be a good summer for all of us. Enjoy all the events that the administration has worked really hard to provide and hopefully you will enjoy as well. Thank you so much and you have a safe evening. Thank you. Can Can we have a motion to

769
03:38:08.720 --> 03:38:24.640
>> Motion by Councilman Asatuli, second by Councilman Vonettton. Roll call. Councilman Asatuli. >> Yes. >> Councilman Depal Deal. >> Yes. >> Councilman Merin. Yes. >> Councilman Pasitti. >> Yes. >> Councilman Pasitti. Councilman Rosolei. >> Yes. >> Councilman Vonstead.

770
03:38:24.640 --> 03:38:35.880
>> Yes. >> Council Vice President Dr. Greenberg Bell. >> Yes. >> Yes. Council President Sohar. >> Yes. 1104