Good afternoon everyone and welcome. My name is Lewis Imhof. I'm the clerk to the county um Bet County Board of County Commissioners. On behalf of the board, thank you for joining us today as we gather to administer the oath of office to Nicholas Veliki as a Pay County
Commissioner. We are honored to have you uh you with us as we mark the significant occasion in his public service. This Pay County uh the Pay County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to acknowledge former C Pay
County Freeholder Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Tahesa Wei Esquire. In the interest of time, we will not recognize each of our distinguished guests individually. However, the board of county commissioners extends its
seere appreciation to our elected officials, community leaders, and family members, friends, and honored guests joining us as we commemorate this special occasion. At this time, I'd like to call forward
the um the PT County Sheriff Thomas Adamo to do the flag salute. And then we will have a And then we will also have uh the a uh gun salute by the New Jersey militia and
then the national anthem which will be done by Iris Reyes, US Army veteran. [snorts] >> Yeah. Yeah. Uh yes, she can come up too. >> Everybody, please stand and join me as
we honor our great flag. I pledge 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. Thank you, Iris. Ready, >> set, fire. Oh, say can you see by the light
what [gasps] has the gleaming rose stripes and stars through the
All the worldly streaming was Oh, the land of the [laughter] Right. Left wheelch. Uh, Commissioner, consider yourself very lucky. I think you're the first
commissioner to uh have a gun salute at your uh at your swearing in ceremony. So, congratulations. So, so at this time, I'd like to call forward um for a prayer by Father Patrick Ryan. Um thank you.
Before we pray, I would just like to give you a little insight. Never sit next to the chair. People are running over saying, "Oh, Mr. Chair, would you like some water? Would you like I'm sitting there like a dog." [laughter]
But I think Sandy was the first. and thank you for remembering me uh with the water. In the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen. Today I read something from Mark Twain and he said the two most important days of our lives is the first when we're
born and the second is when we decide what we're doing with our life. And after service from my perspective to the church obviously I think the most valuable service we can give is to the
public and we have a number of really excellent elected officials from this county. We have another one being sworn in today. So we pray hard for them that God gives them the wisdom and the grace to do what is right to keep their minds
open to always remember the needs of the poor. And now we say, "Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. And we pray in a special way for Commissioner Bleki. That has a nice sound to it. In the name of the Father and of the Son, of the Holy
Spirit. >> Thank you very much, Father Ryan. At this time, I'd like to call forward for remarks by the honorable chairman John Curry, Pay County Democratic Committee Chairman, and the New Jersey Democratic State Committee Chairman Emeritus.
>> Good afternoon everyone. It's a pleasure to see you all this evening. I would like to take a spot of privilege before I start and introduce our great assembly woman from the 27th district
that represents Clifton, Assemblyman Rosa Boli for a round of applause. >> We also have our board president from uh P County Technical Institute, Mr. Mike Kasha.
And welcome all of you dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen. I thought I would start because there's so much talk about process and procedure of how we got to where we are today. You know, everything in our government and our democracy is
about process. I have to tell you that uh Mr. Felicki along with uh uh incumbent commissioner and others came before the sp county committee back and were selected. uh out of the five that
screen they've gone to a primary and won their primary uh with by large margins. We thought that it was only appropriate since we have the resignation that our longtime county commissioner who has
been swiped up by Governor Scher's administration for a very important go job with the gateway authority and uh so Commissioner Bartlett uh had to resign. So I think Commissioner Barton deserves
a round of applause for his 13 years of service. So with that and along of course with the retirement of of Commissioner James who make uh replace them on the ticket
we had to install or appoint a new commissioner and that's why we are here today. After winning the primary overwhelmingly it was my recommendation to the county committee that we seat Mr. Velicki as a
city commissioner starting well hopefully within the next 15 minutes that he'll be making his first vote and why we to make you understand we that we still will have a vacancy that we will
go to a process uh for Bartlett's position. Now, just so you will understand, Mr. Vali is only in this position until December 31st of 2026. God willing, with your help and many,
many others, he will be elected on November for a full term. But as we go through the process the rest of the month uh starting over this weekend and finishing on April 5th, we will the
county committee select a person to again finish out to run with them this November and finish out uh Commissioner Bartlett's term for the year 27. I thought it was important that to the way
things are going in America today and particularly in the White House that I would explain the process that we go through. This is all in title 19 which is in your law books and that's where we are and it's my pleasure right now to
welcome Nick Flecki and his family along with our county clerk to be sworn in as our newest appointed commissioner. Make come forward. Stand up so they can close. Whatever your preference is. Whatever your preferences. All right.
>> Good evening everyone. Today marks a very important moment in the continuity of county government. On behalf of the county clerk's office, I want to first congratulate you, Commissioner, and secondly, thank you for your willingness to serve the residents of Paya County.
Please place your left hand on the Bible, raise your right hand, and repeat after me. I state your name. I, Nick Maliki, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States
>> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear >> and that I will bear >> true faith >> true faith >> and allegiance to the same >> and allegiance to the same >> and to the governments established
>> and to the governments established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully >> and that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly perform
>> and justly perform >> all of the duties >> all of the duties >> as county commissioner >> as county commissioner >> to the best of my abilities >> to the best of my ability >> and understanding >> and understanding. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations commissioner
>> [laughter] >> Oh. Oh, he's adorable. Thank you. Here we are. I don't know if you heard me. Here we are. All I can say right now is God is good.
You know, this has been quite a journey and I've not traveled it alone. Uh the Bible today that I placed my hand on when I took my oath was opened to the book of Samuel. And I don't know how many of you who
have ever read the book of Samuel or are familiar with it, but basically what it has to do was with Samuel being called by God and he doesn't hear or doesn't understand the call at first and it takes a little time for him to get get
to know what's really happening. Well, I feel I have been called and I've been called on this journey and I'm not alone. I've got a lot of people here and people that I need to acknowledge and thank. First and
foremost, our county chairman, John Curry, who saw something in me which has been brewing and I guess refining itself like fine wine sound good for years. And I thank him for recognizing that and for
calling for me to take this step. I want to thank just a few others. Tony Denova, who has been a mentor and has been very helpful as we move along this this trail. Uh Ryan Yako doesn't get
enough credit. This man is really absolutely a number one when it comes to elections and county ser and and winning elections. Matt Jordan who has been a teacher to me. I hope you realize how much you have taught me about county government, about
t county process. And um I'm not finished yet. Don't worry. I'm going to be calling you quite a bit. I also would be remissed if I did not thank my wife, my wife Sharon. It's interesting because as you start a
journey, very rarely are you the same person that comes out at the end of the journey. And God knows I've changed and God knows she's put up with that change and still has not thrown me out. So I I
feel wonderful. I feel accepted here. I want to thank my daughter Victoria who's here today. My son Nicholas, my my daughter-in-law is actually traveling in uh from a business trip abroad and will be in later this evening. But she did
send in herstead my two of my grandsons, Spencer and Miles. And also on the political side, you don't you don't start a journey like this or maybe you do start it alone, but you find very quickly how many people
become not just friends but family. And there are a few individuals that I need to recognize as my family. I don't know whether they realize I've adopted them or not, but I have. Iris Reyes, thank you for everything you've done.
Angelina Cadrado, I saw you walk in. I don't know where you're sitting. There she is. Right there. A parro. A parro. Everybody knows Emparro. And I am glad to have her as part of my team. And last, but certainly
not least, Vivian. Viv, you are the newest member of the team. And all I could say is we all love you and thank you. I also have to acknowledge my running mates Orlando who is away on business this week but regrets that he can't be
here but has been very very supportive and of course our surrogate Zora Kasanova I have to say Zoya likes to talk about her accomplishments in office as I do
free wills for veterans and and retired police officers and so on. But Zoa neglects to let everyone know that she is a surrogate with a heart. She deals with individuals in the best of times,
but also in the worst of times. And they walk away dealing with her feeling good about themselves, about the decisions that they've made, and about the processes that they need to go through. You know, it's a lot of thanks. It's a
lot of, you know, what I'm feeling inside right now. I mean, I can go through all the different things that the county government does, and I've learned an awful lot, and I still have a lot more to learn, but the county is interested and and
touches all our lives. everyone from seniors to veterans to the underprivileged, the hungry with meals programs. They deal with our roads. They fix our potholes. They plow the snow
when it's it's inclement outside. And parks and recreation, just like the park that we're enjoying here this evening. We've got the county tech which is an absolutely stellar high school and pose county community
college which has turned into a foremost institution for people seeking a college education in p county and also pus healthcare and again I'm just touching on a few items and I'm giving you a very broad look but the programs that are in
place in the county I am absolutely thrilled to be part of or to be part of now that I'm a commissioner. Um, we often use the term a gem. It's one of the gems of Pay County. And when we talk
about the gems of Pay County, what are we talking about? We're talking about new parkland. We're talking about a facility. We're talking about a program. But the real gems in P County are its people.
We're honored to have gems sitting on our current board of commissioners and I just hope that as I join this fine group of legislators that my gem can shine just
as brightly as theirs. Once again, I thank you all very much. Thank you for coming out and I look forward to serving as your county commissioner. Congratulations again, Commissioner Valicki, and thank you. Uh, I want to
thank uh everyone that put this ceremony together uh and the host at at Day Mansion. I think uh it was a wonderful to have Dave Mansion as a backdrop to this uh to this um uh wonderful swearing in ceremony. On behalf of the Bet County
Board of County Commissioners, uh Director Cassandra Sandy Lazera, Deputy Director Orlando Cruz, Commissioner Rodney D'vor, Commissioner Bruce James, Commissioner uh Michael Remagalia, Commissioner Christina Schz, and
Commissioner Nicholasi. We thank you for coming to um this uh wonderful ceremony as we um as we as we bring a new member onto the board of county commissioners. And so we'd like to end this with uh a benediction again
from Father Patrick Ryan. Thank you. We can stand. God, our father, we thank you for this wonderful day, for this beautiful setting, for the history that is ours, the past, the present, and the future.
We ask that you give us generous hearts, open minds, and strong will to do whatever you ask of us. And we ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. In the name of the Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Amen. They told me to keep it short. Welcome to the July 14th,
2026 board of commissioners meeting. But most importantly, how about a big hand for our newest commissioner, Nick Gicki. He's going to be such a great addition to this board, and you guys will see how
great he really is. But at this point, I would like to ask Lou to do a roll call. here. >> County Commissioners D'vor >> here, >> James Remaglia >> here, >> Schratz
>> here, >> Valicki >> here, >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> Director Lazar >> here. >> Okay. >> At at this point, I think General Washington is going to come up and read the announcement of the open public meeting law.
>> Director, we're we're doing the public hearing first. >> Oh, sorry. My mistake. Public hearing. >> I don't have that. >> It's there. Check. >> Okay. Motion to open the public hearing. >> So moved. Um second
>> for Magglia and D'Vor. >> Okay. Okay. Announcement of public uh hearing. Uh, this public hearing is to receive public comment regarding the county's project labor agreement that will be updated to
authorize the use of project labor agreement for the uh public works projects valued at $3 million um or greater and to allow the use of project labor agreement for the public works projects valued under the threshold at the discretion of the
board. The following public hearing was advertised in the Bay Pay County current legal uh current legal notices web page specifying the time, date, and location of this public hearing. >> Does anyone present desire to be heard
on the county's project labor agreement policy? >> Seeing none, I may make a motion to close. >> Second. >> Remagia and Valicki. Could I have a motion to adjurnn? >> Um, I'll I'll do a roll call. Oh,
>> okay. C County Commissioners, uh, D'Vor, yes. >> Raagia, >> yes. >> Stratz, >> yes. >> Delicki, >> yes. >> Uh, director Lazar, >> yes. And now a motion to adjurnn. >> Uh, still move. >> Second.
>> D'vor, >> we did. >> Yes, I think we all Yeah, that's fine. But we did a motion to open. Now we need a motion to close.
>> Yes. Okay. Director, we only did one uh one motion uh to open and we did the roll um the the vote on that roll call. So, we need to do a a motion to close the public hearing. So, >> Okay. Can I have a motion to close the
public hearing? So move >> second. >> Valicki and Remaglia. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagia. >> Yes. >> Stratz. >> Yes. >> Galicki. >> Yes. >> Um Director Lazar. >> Yes.
>> Can I have a motion to adjurnn? >> So moved. >> Second. >> D'vor and Raglia. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remaglia. >> Yes. >> Stratz. >> Yes. Licki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes.
>> Okay, we'll be back at uh in four minutes to do the regular meeting. >> Okay, it's 5:30. We're going to start all over again. Uh welcome to the July 14th, 2026 uh meeting of the board of
commissioners. Uh we welcome tonight Nick Valicki. We're looking forward to a really long relationship and you being on this board with us. It's going to be great. >> Absolutely. Got a lot of work to do between now and November, but uh I'm looking forward to it as well. Very
excited to be here. >> You guys got us. Okay. >> And direct and director, for the record, I am in receipt of um the oath of office that was administrator by administered by Bet County Clerk Danielle Ireland
Immhof about an hour ago. And uh I am memory seat and uh he is uh commissioner Valicki is uh duly sworn in. >> Cool. Congratulations, Nick. >> Thank you. [applause] >> Okay. At this point, I'd like to invite
General Washington up here. >> The roll call first. And um we could uh uh commissioners uh uh Commissioner D'vor >> here, >> Re uh James, Remagalia >> here, >> Schratz >> here,
>> Beliki >> here, >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> Director Lazar >> here. Now, General Washington, we would like you, if you would, to read the open public meeting law. Ladies and gentlemen,
notice requirement of open public meeting has been satisfied this meeting and location organized in the administration building.
and accordance. >> Welcome my head. [laughter] Okay, at this point, Commissioner D'vor, would you lead us in the pledge of allegiance? >> Can we all stand and join in pursuing our flag? I
>> aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. And now I'd like to invite Iris Reyes to
come up. I'd like to invite the New Jersey militia to join us by the podium. And I'd like to invite Miss Angelina CuadraD, Commissioner of the Helden Board of Education. Hey, >> man. Hello.
Ready? It's ready. Oh, see can you see by the dawn early light what so proudly [screaming] we held
at the twilight last gleaming who's brought stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight.
Or the ramp parts we watch were so gallently streaming and the rocket red glare. roasting
in there. Give proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled
man. Oh, the land of the free and the home of the brave. Left wheel. Oh, beautiful, for spacious
skies, for amber waves of grave, for purple [singing] mountain mesties up above [screaming]
the fruited >> [screaming] >> America, [screaming] America, [crying] God shed his grace on thee
and [screaming] crown thy good with brotherhood [screaming] from sea to shine. At this point, I'd like to invite Father Patrick Ryan up to do the invocation. I just want the commissioners. They need to be closer to the mic. You can't hear
you in the back. Okay. And director, would you like a bottle of water? [laughter] >> Got it. >> The devil goes to bed by 7, so we'll make this very quick. God, our father, we thank you for allowing us together at
this historic place, this historic event. Allow your spirit to guide and direct and uphold our commissioners. May they be fair and just and always looking out for the poorest of the poor. And we ask
this through Christ our Lord. Amen. >> Amen. >> Thank you, Father. Thank you, Father Ryan. At this point, if everybody could just stand, we need a moment of silence to remember the men and women who have died while serving in
the United States Armed Forces. Thank you. Have a motion to approve the minutes of June 23rd, 2026. >> So moved. >> Second. >> D'Vor and Remaglia. >> County Commissioners D'vor.
>> Yes. >> Remagalia, >> yes. >> Tratz, >> yes. >> Valicki, >> abstain. Uh, director Lazara. >> Yes. >> Um, could I have a motion for the approval of proclamations? >> So moved. >> Second.
>> D'Vor and Remaglia. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Raglia, >> yes. >> Schwraz, >> yes. >> Felix, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. And at this point, I'll turn it over to our administrator. >> Thank you, director. First on my agenda
is a presentation of a proclamation for Americans with Disability Act awareness day 2026. I'm going to turn it back over to you. >> Is anyone here? >> Yes. >> Shirley, director forest. And then surely if there's any members
of the disabilities uh commission with you, you're going to go to the podium. Yep. >> Okay, everyone. I'm going to read the proclamation. On
July 26, 1990, President George H. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure the civil rights of people with disabilities. Whereas the legislation established a clear and comprehensive national mandate
for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Whereas the ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions, increase in full
participation in community life. However, the full promise of the ADA will only be reached if public entities remain committed in their efforts to fully
implement the ADA. Whereas on the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Pake County, New Jersey celebrates and recognizes the progress that has been made by reaffirming the principles of
equality and inclusion and recommending our efforts to reach full ADA compliance. Whereas the board of county commissioners of the county of Pake by resolution adopted on May 21st, 1997
created the advisory council on disability to advise the board of county commissioners on all matters that affect people with disabilities in Pay County and to provide a mechanism through which this community can have its voice heard
by county government. Whereas the advisory council on disability was informed was formed to promote the inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities within Pay County and to advise the board of county
commissioners on ADA issues that impact the quality of life for people with disabilities. Now therefore, let it be proclaimed by the board of county commissioners of the county of Pay that it does hereby reaffirm its commitment to work toward
full ADA compliance in Pay County and does hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing July 26, 2026 as Americans with Disabilities Act
awareness day. This is for you. I'm going to introduce uh Cindy Simon who will just wants to say a few words. >> Good afternoon. July is disability awareness month. For many people with disabilities, what is most challenging
is not our specific impairments. What is most challenging are unnecessary barriers, negative society attit societal attitudes about disability and discrimination against us. As we acknowledge the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, let us
also make a commitment to recognizing disability as a natural occurring part of human diversity and a commitment to support the policies and taking actions that allows for individuals with disabilities to chase our dreams and
live as welcome equal members of society. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. [applause] Congratulations. Director Charlie. If the members of the uh disabilities commission also could join for the
picture, please. Don't worry. All right. All right. Next on my agenda is a public hearing regarding the proposed expenditures for the 2026 county open space farmland and historic preservation trust fund. I'm going to turn this back over to our clerk.
This hearing is pursuant to NJSA 4012-15 uh.3B regarding the two uh regarding the 2026 Pay County Open Space Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Funds awards for proposed expenditures over $100,000.
The following public hearing was advertised in the Pay County legal notices web page specifying the time, date, and location of the public hearing. >> County Commissioners D'voris. >> Remagia,
>> yes. >> Schratz, >> yes. >> Biki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. It's time for Kelly. >> Yeah. Motion number three. >> Okay. Motion to open the public hearing on the 2026 P County Open Space,
Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. >> So move >> projects recommendations of 100,000 or more. >> Second. >> Lucky. >> Second. and
Rematlia >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. [laughter] Remagia, >> yes. >> Trat, >> yes. >> Valicki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. >> Does anyone present desire to be heard on the recommendations?
>> Seeing no one at the podium. Tony, >> is that you? >> Please head to the podium. Thank you. Can you hear me? >> Yes. >> County commissioners, ladies and gentlemen, I'm John Franco Arimedi, the
executive director of the City of Patterson Historic Preservation Commission. I'm very pleased to be here with all of you today and I'm very also pleased to be joined by some of our commissioners. Commissioner Richard Walter is here and former commissioner Joyce Corbo is also here. I'd like to recognize that they're
also here in support. I'm here on behalf of the commission to thank you and to tell you how grateful we are to all of you county commissioners to the administration to P County residents to the mayor of the city of Patterson to
the Patterson city council for all the investments that you've been making over my entire career of 21 years serving the citizens of Patterson in my capacity. Thank you. And I bring these greetings directly from the commissioners.
This is a very special vote on this particular open space application this year because it concerns a very important building in the city of Patterson. The Van House that sits in Westside Park
has been part of the city of Patterson's ownership since the 1880s on and it's been in our stewardship and we've been able to keep it occupied, running, and maintained as part of Westside Park for many, many years.
It was quite a tragedy when in 2014 a fire had consumed the building and the building is in dire straits right now. The grant application that we've forwarded the request that was made by the mayor of the city of
Patterson was for matching funds to be provided for another grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust to do emergency stabilization on this building. Eventually, we look forward to continued cooperation with the city with the Pay County in the total rehabilitation of
the building to add it to the to the wonderful inventory of early Dutch structures that exists throughout the county. The Van House is probably the last remaining standing building representing Patterson's connection to the 18th
century at a time when Patterson didn't even exist. Many of us know that Patterson was established in 1792 and the War of 1812 and then in 1831 was the establishment of the township of Patterson and of course followed by the
establishment of our county in 1837. The Venhhatton House has stood well beyond this time and in 1831 when the when the township was established, it also burned down. The building burned down. was rebuilt by the family at that
time. So, this is our second fire in all of those years that we'd like to survive and with your help in support of this grant application, we know that it will. I'd just like to point out also that there was another Vanhountain
building in Westside Park right nearby to the one that I'm speaking about. Many of you don't know of it because it was demolished. It actually sat at the pitcher mound in the ball field right a stones throw from
the Venhhatton house that we know today and hence the importance and the significance of continuing to preserve these important historic sites in the city of Patterson. So we really appreciate your ongoing support especially tonight's support for this very important project and this very
unique structure. We have great plans uh working together with you, the city council, and the mayor's office to uh restore the building and put it back into public use uh and the same way that all all of you have done with all of your county assets. Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. a little short. [laughter] Good evening. My name is Tony Van Cherry, a lifelong resident of Patterson who grew up on Liberty Street just a half a block away from Westside Park.
The Van Hton House. I have known it for 70 plus years. Uh when I became superintendent of parks in west side, we the senior citizens would meet every day using that
building, maintain it regularly. We used to store our equipment in the basement which was a great site because it was from the 18th 17th century 18th century. Was unbelievable how strong the
base was. But as president of the Veterans Council, we're talking about a home of a veteran, and that means more to me than anything because the history behind it. I just
gave John Franco and Joyce some pictures of a stone that was placed there in the 60s honoring the troops when they marched across Westside Park to come up here to Prenness Hills when it was
called Preenness Hills and they had to find homes place for the troops to sit you know and sleep and what's the important thing about when you lose a military history,
you lose our history of America. We support this project and again the as the president of the Veterans Council, we want to say thank you to this commission for always being there for
the open space grants over the years. You have never voted once against it. That's 18 years since I've been in a leadership role. And we are grateful. I again along with John Franco ask and
thank you for the continuous support of these very important projects for the history not just of Patterson or Pay County or New Jersey but of course the history of America are 250 years old
this year. Thank you. Thank you for giving me the time and God bless America. [applause] Good afternoon, county commissioners. Thank you for having me speak. My name is Joyce Corbo. I've been I'm a former Patterson Historic Preservation
Commissioner and we have worked tirelessly with city council administration and now the county to try and see that the Vin Houndhouse is saved. We so often hear from city officials, county officials, state
officials when they consistently speak with pride about the great historic city of Patterson, the great historic county of Pake. And Patterson was the first planned industrial city in our nation. And we all should. But we need to remember this all the time and stand by
this every day. Not when it's just a convenient sound bite during a speech or a press conference, but we need to remember this in practice and continue to preserve why these historic structures are so important to our county and our city. >> [snorts] >> So, I want to thank you from the
Historic Preservation Commission, from all the residents of Pay County and Patterson who care about our historic culture and our historic buildings. This property, as you know, is of exceptional historic and cultural significance. Like John Franco said, it dates back to 74
1741. It's formerly listed on the Patterson Register of Historic Places, the New Jersey and National Registers. And as such, it represents not only a tangible link to Patterson's earliest residential history, but also a resource
of county, statewide, and national significance. And the Patterson Historic Preservation Commission is deeply concerned that without timely intervention and this, we thank you tonight is the first step, we need a
viable long-term stewardship plan because this irreplaceable structure faces continued deterioration and hopefully not, but could be probable demolition. And none of us want to see that happen.
So preserving the structure for the people out there, it's not solely a matter of protecting one individual building. It's an investment in Patterson's identity and Pay County's identity, heritage, tourism potential,
and community pride. Restored and rehabilitated to serve possibly as a cultural center. It will proudly complement the newly renovated Westside Park and will be a great addition to our county historical resources as well.
Here it can provide the rich history and stories of the past. Details of the early Dutch settlers to the area even before colonial times. the Van Hounds and their ties to the Revolutionary War and George Washington and their farmstead which was worked by enslaved
individuals and the significance of selling their land to the society for the establishment of useful manufacturers and so much more. But as you know once it's lost a resource of this magnitude and uniqueness can never be replaced. So again, I thank you all
and I hope and thank you for your continued support in the future for projects like these. Thank you. [applause] Good evening. My name is Mike Straco and I proudly live in Little Falls, but I've been a P County resident all of my life.
First, I would like you to thank you for the grant that you are extending to everyone here. We hear a lot about the first this, the first that, the first initiative.
I'd like to share with you somebody who will always be a first in my life. He was the first councilman of the first ward of the city of Patterson when it changed
the form of government. He was also the first councilman to die while in office. His name Ralph Dubar Antonio. I knew him as grandpa.
His legacy is much more about being a first. He lived his life by three simple things. Show me who you hang with. I'll tell you who you are. Never ask someone to do something you wouldn't do yourself.
And finally, the last will be first and the first will be laugh last. That is the way he lived. He served this country as a United States Marine, built a successful business known as Belmont Liquors.
He devoted his life to his family and to those he cared about. As a councilman, he believed every resident deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. He didn't make decisions based on popularity. He made
them on the right thing to do. Four years after his passing, the late mayor Pat Kramer dedicated a small park on North Ninth Street and Oxford Street in Patterson in his honor.
Though modest in size, it became a safe haven where neighborhood children could play and cool off during the summer and enjoy a place that belonged to the community. Over the years, that park
was less desirable. By 2016, the grass had become overgrown. Drug paraphernalia and litter covered the grounds. Reproductive health care packaging was strewn all over. The sign
bearing my grandfather's name had been destroyed and disappeared. Benches had been stolen. The American flag was tattered, hanging upside down, truly saying the park was in distress.
What was made the situation even worse was across the street, Common Grid's Field was lit up like a Broadway show as my grandfather's park sat in darkness. Rather than complain, we acted
together with the Patterson Veteran Council and you. We adopted the park and committed ourselves for caring for it. We continue to clean it, maintain it, replace the flags, and improve the landscaping.
This summer, we will donate more bushes to beautify the area. Today, children are now safe. They play without stepping around trash and families enjoy a clean environment. But there's so much more that volunteers can accomplish. The park
now needs meaningful improvements that address accessibility for all safety and long-term substance. The portable restroom that currently
sets sits at the entrance of the park. Not the most welcoming, but it's possible that it could be moved. Pathways, seating, and lighting, and accessible amenities, amenities all deserve attention so that every child and every person who visits the park
feels welcome. As we speak, there's another field being where $1.36 million renovation is about to happen. That investment is welld deserved. But surely we can find through your grant and
through your assistance a place where we can honor a Marine, a combat veteran, a public servant, and a man whose life was dedicated to serving others. Our family is not asking to preserve his legacy for
us. We do that. We will continue to do that because that's what he taught us. He taught us that a community is judged by what and whom it chooses to stand behind. He reminds us that leadership means taking
action ourselves before asking others to help. He reminds us that while history may rem may remember who was first, true greatness is measured how we care for those who came before us and those who may
otherwise be forgotten. With your continued partnership, we can restore this park not simply as a memorial to one man, but a lasting tribute to the values he lived every day. In a city that often claims it's the first,
perhaps the greatest first of all would be this. A time when we honor the legacy legacy of Patterson's own, ensuring that every child and every family and every veteran and every visitor can enjoy a park that
reflects the character of the man whose name bears it. That would truly be a first worth remembering. Again, thank you for your continued support. [applause]
Commissioners, I'm Richard Walter. I'm a commissioner on the Historic Preservation Commission in Patterson. I'm new to Patterson. I moved here in 1980. I saw the city, fell in love with it, and fell in love with the history of this city. And I've been on a commission
for over 25 years. This grant will help preserve an important part of this city, an important monument to the past of this city. It is necessary to restore this Van Hton House back to its former glory,
and this will be the first step in doing that. Everybody that spoke before me about the Van Hton House was much more eloquent than I am. I am not good at speeches, but I s strongly suggest that
you pass and this grant is given to the city of Patterson. Thank you. [clears throat] [applause] Seeing no one, move the motion to close >> second and divor. >> County commissioners D'vor,
>> yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Stratz, >> yes. >> Valicki, >> yes. >> Director Lazaro, >> yes. >> Can I have a motion to adjurnn? So moved. >> Second. >> Filicki and Remaglia.
>> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagalia. >> Yes. >> Trat. >> Yes. >> Biki. >> Yes. >> Director Bill Lazera. >> Yes. >> Thank you. Uh next we have a commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States and Pay County's role in our nation's history. We have
our director of the department of cultural and historic affairs, Kelly Rafael, for presentation on P County's role in our country's founding. [applause] Let me just get situated here. Can everyone hear me? I tend to talk loud. We're good. Um, before I get started, I
would like to call back up the New Jersey militia and his excellent Lindsay George Washington to join me for this presentation. If they are Hi guys or not, we're going to keep moving. [laughter]
So, as our nation commemorates 250 years of American independence, we gather not simply to remember the events of 1776, but to reflect on the places and people whose stories really helped shape the United States. Um, for nearly two and a
half centuries, Pake County is still revolutionary. Uh, this theme perfectly captures who we are. Um it reminds us that while the revolution established our nation, the revolutionary spirit of innovation,
perseverance, um sacrifice and progress did not end in 1783 with the Treaty of Paris. Many people think of the American Revolution in terms of famous battlefields such as Lexington, Trenton, Saratoga, and Yorktown. Pacific County
was not really the site of a major battlefield or battle, but history teaches us that wars, right, they're not won only on the battlefields, but through logistics, supply lines, intelligence, leadership, and the
resilience of its communities. So during the revolution, P County was one of the most strategically important landscapes in the new nation. Located just beyond British controlled New York City, our roads, valleys, rivers, and mountain
passes became the vital arteries connecting New England and the Mid-Atlantic count uh colonies. Continental Army regiments, militia companies that are with me today, uh supply wagons, political leaders and messengers constantly travel through
these routes. So protecting these roads meant protecting the revolution itself. Um the geography of our county became one of America's greatest military assets. Um the watch on mountains, that's Garrett Mountain in case you didn't know, shields the continental for
forces from the British observation while providing commanding views across the Newark basin into British occupied New York City. The Highlands near Ringwood uh concealed critical iron works that supply the Continental Army
uh with the tools of war. So that's nails, horseshoes, cooking utensils, and munitions that kept the army in the field. Our rivers, they dictated where armies could move, which bridges had to be defended, and where supply lines remain secure. General George Washington
understood this better than anyone, right? So twice in 1780, Washington establishes his headquarters right here at Dye Mansion. Uh from this remarkable home he directed military operations while the Continental Army would spread
across what is now Hawthorne, Totoa, Woodland Park, Patterson, Pmpton, and Wayne. Decisions made here really influenced campaigns far beyond just here in New Jersey. Over 6,000 pages of orders and directives were given
directly from this headquarters here at Dansion. It is also here that Washington would receive news that the French have finally arrived to aid in our efforts at Newport, Rhode Island. Then again, in 1781, just when we think Washington and
his companies have left P County, they combine with American and French armies under the general and the compbo and marched through P County again on their way south to Virginia. So their journey, you know, passing through P County would
co culminate in the victory at Yorktown, which was the battle that effectively secured American independence. So as today, P County during the revolution, it was remarkably diverse. Native Americans who were displaced from their
ancestral lands lived alongside Dutch settlers whose families had arrived only generations earlier. ScotsI-Irish immigrants, English colonists, and of course, the enslaved men and women of African and Caribbean heritage. Many of them believed deeply in independence.
Others remained loyal to the crown and very uncertain which side would prevail. Enslaved people faced the painful reality that promises of liberty offered no guarantee of freedom. These stories remind us that the American Revolution was experienced differently by those who
were here. Understanding those diverse perspectives makes our history richer, more honest, and ultimately more meaningful as we commemorate 250 years of our nation's journey. Yet, perhaps the greatest lesson Pay County offers us
is that our revolutionary story did not end. The same natural resources and geography that made this region indispensable during the revolution would continue to change America just a decade after independence. And I know we
got some of the bites before. Alexander Hamilton recognized the extraordinary power of the great falls of the Payic River. He here he envisioned something entirely new, the American economy. In 1792, following his vision, Patterson
became the nation's first planned industrial city, harnessing power, water power to reduce America's dependence on foreign mar manufacturing and building economy to keep an independent nation free or new independent nation free. In
many ways, Hamilton completed what Washington and many other ordinary people fought to preserve. From the Great Falls emerged silk mills, locomotive works, textile factories, aircraft engines, and countless inventions that fueled America's
industrial revolution. Patterson became known throughout the world as Silk City, attracting generations of immigrants who came seeking opportunity um and helped build one of the most diverse communities in America. During this period, P County was still
revolutionary. This was not the end of our story. An industry transformed America, so too did the voices of working men and women who demanded dignity, fairness, and safe working conditions. By the early 20th century, P
County stood at the forefront of the American labor movement. From the famous 1913 Patterson silk strike to the 1926 Pake Textile strike, workers here helped shape national conversations about workers rights, fair wages, and the
future of American labor. Those movements influenced legislation and workplace protections that continue to affect millions of Americans today. Again, P County was helping redefine the American experience. Uh that is why our
theme still revolutionary is no is so appropriate. We were revolutionary when we protected Washington supplies supply lines. We were revolutionary when Hamilton launched American industry. And we were revolutionary when workers stood
together to improve the lives of future generations. So, and today, you know, we continue to be revolutionary by preserving these stories, protecting our historic places, welcoming people from every culture and background, and ensuring that future generations
understand not only where America has been, but where it can go. So across Pay County, our historic sites from Dy Mansion and Lambert Castle to the Great Falls National Historical Park, Ringwood Manor and its iron works and our many
museums and cultural landmarks are more than places to visit. They remind us that history is not confined to textbooks. It lives in our landscapes, our communities, and in the people who continue to care for these remarkable places. But where would these places be
without our board of county commissioners and our administrators? Recognizing the significance of this milestone, the commissioners made the largest investment in historic preservation in the county's history. Over the past several years, the commissioners have invested nearly $50
million to restore, rehabilitate, and prepare our historic sites to welcome residents and visitors during America's 250th. at Lambert Castle and Lambert Tower. Uh we had an extensive restoration which has returned these landmarks to the in full to the public
including opening the carriage house for the first time since 1931. The acquisition or the recent acquisition of Highlands Farms in Bloomingdale will preserve the site of the Pompton Mutiny of 1781. Another direct tie to preserving and showcasing our
revolutionary story. The county restored the oldest structure still standing in P County 1694, the Skyler Kfax House, which will open as the P County Military Heritage Museum later this fall. The county restored the historic John W. Ray
House as the P County Art Center. We've revitalized the historic gardens here at Dansion to reflect that sort of 18th century vibe. And then the county established the P County Archaeology Center which created the New Jersey's first county operated facility dedicated
to preserving and interpreting the archaeological story of our region. And finally, at the historic Pay County Courthouse, we're undergoing a comprehensive exterior restoration which ensures that a civic landmark continues to stand proudly. So these local
investments have really inspired confidence in our partners from our state from local state and federal partners. And through the leadership of the commissioners, Pake County successfully secured more than $27 million in competitive grants to advance historic preservation, museum
improvements, education initiatives, archaeological research, and heritage tourism programs all since 2017. And these funds are not simply preserving buildings. They are creating educational opportunities, expanding public access, strengthening our
connections with our communities, and ensuring that P County stories continue to be told. The work we undertake today is an investment in tomorrow. When Americans gather again to celebrate the 300th anniversary, um we they will be
able to stand in the rooms where George Washington directed the Continental Army, climb Lambert Tower, and overlook the landscape that helped secure our independence, discover new stories, and appreciate how Pake County helped shape the American story. Thank you to
everyone here today for attending our program and thank you to the county commissioners for helping shape our legacy by preserving our rich history and investing in our bright future. Thank you. [applause] >> It's the sun.
>> Yep. Thank you, Kelly. That that date Kelly referenced in 2017 also corresponds with the date she was hired to run our Department of Culture and Historic Affairs. So, let's give her a round of applause for making S County a model in New Jersey. [snorts]
Would you like to get in there with the rest of them, Mr. Washington? >> Okay, we need everybody just to squeeze in just a little bit. Everybody just move in a little bit. Get a little bit tighter there. There we go. All right. Ready?
Right. >> Yeah. Can I take one really quick, too? Thank you. >> Yeah. That's not the point. They dismiss themselves. Uh, director. Uh, in closing, I have some some nonhistorical news. Uh, on June 25th, uh, the county had a $6
million bond sale. I'm um pleased to report that, uh, we were very competitive with a little over 3% interest rate. uh speaks to the strong financial position uh of the county in the market. I give a shout out to our CFO Rich Cahill and the great work that he's doing. So with that, that concludes
my agenda. [applause] >> Thank you, administrator. At this point, I'd like a motion to suspend the regular order of business. >> So moved. Second. >> D'Vor and Remagluia.
County Commi C County Commissioners D'vor, >> yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Stratz, yes. >> Valicki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. >> Uh, director, before we vote on approving ordinance 202605, I just want to remind the the board and the public
that this is the final step for the financing of the redevelopment of the former Pay County jail site with a new six-story building and 500 space parking garage. It'll house our board of social services, um, our three election offices, our probation department, there'll be a hub for our our sheriff's
office. Um, so speaking of investment uh in Patterson and and this board's commitment to our county seat, this is a great uh step in the revitalization of downtown Patterson. >> Thank you. Could I have a motion to open the public hearing on ordinance 2026-05?
>> So moved. >> Second. and Vicki >> County County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagalia, >> yes. >> Stratziki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. Does anyone present desire to be
heard on ordinance 2026-05? >> Seeing none, make a motion to close. >> Second. >> Second. >> Your Magglia and Vicki. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagia. Yes. >> Stratz. >> Yes. >> Biki. >> Yes.
>> Director Lazar. >> Yes. Could I have a motion to adopt ordinance 2026-05? >> So moved. >> D'Vor >> second. >> Gicki. >> And director just for the record, I'd
like to read the um executive summary into into the record. uh 2026 ordinance of the PC of the ordinance of the county of Bayic State of New Jersey approving and authorizing entering into execution and delivery of a lease agreement with
the Bay County Improvement Authority in connection with the issuance of of county general obligation lease revenue notes and bonds 11 Marshall Street phase 2 redevelopment project by the Bay County Improvement Authority.
>> Okay. Roll call. Um, county commissioners D'vor, >> yes. >> Remagalia, >> yes. >> Schz, >> yes. >> Biki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. Can I have a motion to resume the regular order of business? >> So moved. D'vor second.
>> D'Vor and Remaglia. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Tratz, >> yes. >> Beli, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. Okay. At this point, we'll have county commissioner reports. I would just start
this off by saying that there's really something fitting about gathering here today. The history of this nation didn't happen somewhere else. It happened right here. This year, we are meeting a responsibility to make
sure this is kept alive for future generations. Uh Lambert Castle was reopened after comprehensive and multi-year restoration along with Lambert Tower and both are now fully
open and accessible to the public. And these are not isolated projects. As you heard Kelly say, there's so many projects throughout this county that's that are being kept alive. I just like I'm in awe of you, Kelly. I'm really in
awe. um they reflect the sustained investment this board is making across Pate County to restore, preserve, and open our historic sites to every resident and generation that follows. In
a year when America is asking who we are and where we came from, P County has the answers and you can walk through them. Our commitment extends well beyond this year of 2026.
Our doors will be open as they always have been and we invite you to come see what we have here in Pay County because it's certainly a destination that you would want to come to to learn about the history of this country. And I thank you again, Kelly.
You did an awesome job. Thank you. [applause] Cruz is not here. Uh, Commissioner D'vor. >> Uh, yes. Thank you, Madam Director. I'll make my report very short. I want to officially and put on the record to congratulate Nick Maliki. I look forward to doing
continue work with you and as we go and move Pay County forward. Congratulations once again. Thank you, >> Commissioner Remaglia. >> Director, I have no report this evening. >> Commissioner Shraz,
>> director, I do not have any reports. However, Commissioner Valicki, congratulation. Looking forward to also working together. >> Oh, that's nice. >> And Commissioner Vallei, >> since I just got here, I really don't
have much of a report, but I will say thank you. I look forward to working with each and every one of you and moving some of these great initiatives forward. >> Thank you. [applause] >> At this point, we'll open up um the
podium to anyone who has anything they want to contribute say. Uh I need a motion from someone to open up the public portion. >> So moved. Villei and D'vor >> County Commission. County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes.
>> Remagia. >> Yes. >> Schratz, >> yes. >> Biki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. >> Anyone wishing to be heard is invited up. You have three minutes and please at the beginning state your name and address. >> Seeing no one make a motion to close.
>> Second. Remagley and D'vor. >> County Commissioners D'vor, >> yes. >> Remagia, yes. >> Stratz, yes. >> Valicki, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. >> Uh to our county council, do we have anything to add to? Yes. >> Vote on separately.
Let me do it directly through you. We have two late starters. Can you hear me? And one amendment. >> Okay. >> So, the first late starter is resolution N66. This is a resolution authorizing the county of PA to accept a grant award
from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs under the 2026 recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities grant program pursuant to NJSA40 colon 20-1 exec. The next is resolution N67.
This is a resolution authorizing competitive contracting for professional construction engineering and inspection services for Morris Canal Greenway Pecman River Crossing pedestrian bridge number 1600-625 in the township of Little Falls pursuant
to NJSA48 colon 11-4.1. I'd like to amend resolution N19 to reflect a new start date of August 4, 2026. That's the only amendment. >> N19. >> Okay. Okay. >> No need for executive session.
>> Thank you. >> Could I have a motion to add the late starters to the agenda and amend N19? >> So move D'Vor >> and who? Second lucky
>> county commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagalia. >> Yes. >> Stratz. >> Yes. >> Bicki. >> Yes. >> Director Lazar. >> Yes. >> Could I have a motion to vote on the consent agenda N1 through N67. >> So move.
>> Second. >> D'Vor and Remaglia. >> County Commissioners. D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagalia. >> Yes. >> Tratz. Yes. >> Bicki. >> Yes. >> Director Lozara. >> Yes.
>> Okay. Can I have a motion? New business to vote on the personnel agenda. >> So moved. >> Second. County Commissioners D'vor, >> yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Stratz, >> yes. >> Valicki, >> yes.
>> Director Lazar, >> yes. Have a motion to enter the bills. >> So moved. >> Second move. >> Remagia and D'Vor. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Trat, >> yes. >> Valicki, >> yes.
>> Director Lazar, >> yes. And director, before we adjourn, there is an authentic 18th century meal being cooked. Everyone please stay and eat before you leave and tour the grounds. >> Good. Okay. And now, can I have a motion
to adjourn? >> So move. >> Second. >> D'vormaglia. >> County Commissioners D'vor. >> Yes. >> Remagalia. >> Yes. >> Stratz. >> Yes. >> Beliki, >> yes. >> Director Lazaro, >> yes. Thank you everyone for joining us tonight.