joining us for our Black History Month celebration. Uh this is our meeting of February 10th, 2026. Uh with that, could we have a roll call, please? >> County Commissioners Bartlett >> here. >> D'Vor here, >> James. Remagalia >> here. >> Tratz
>> here. >> Deputy Director Cruz >> here. >> Director Lazar >> here. Um could we have an announcement of the open public meeting law? >> Yes. Ladies and gentlemen, the notice requirement of the open public meetings law has been satisfied with respect to this meeting specifying the time, date,
and location, including annual notice adopted the reorganization meeting filed with the county clerk posted administration building and mailed to two newspapers in accordance with the provisions of the law. >> And if you could lead us in the pledge of allegiance
uh >> please join me in saluting the flag of our country. To the flag of the United States of America. in the United States Armed Forces. >> Thank you. >> Each of the
separately December Hold on second >> December. is >> Could I have a motion to approve the minutes of December 29th? >> So moved.
>> Second. >> Was that >> D'Vor? Okay. >> County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. Remagalia. >> Yes. >> Trat.
>> Yes. >> You know what? You can >> you weren't. >> Okay. Stating >> wasn't here either. So Mike wasn't here either. >> Yeah, >> I'll second. >> Okay. >> If Yeah, is is abstaining.
>> Okay. Uh, Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. >> Director Lazarum, >> yes. And could I have a motion to approve the minutes of January 27th, 2026? >> So moved, D'Voria >> County Commission, this one you
obviously um county commissioners Bartlett, >> yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. >> Remaglia, >> yes. Tratz. >> Yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz. >> Yes. >> Director Lazar. >> Yes. >> Um, can I have a motion to approve the
proclamations? >> Move. >> Second. >> County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Trz, >> yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. >> Director Lazar, >> yes. and uh pass this over to the
administrator for his report. >> Oh, thank you uh director. As you stated, we have our Black History Month celebration tonight. I'm going to turn things over to our master of ceremonies, uh Commissioner D'vor. Thank you, Matt. >> Good evening everyone. On behalf of the county board of
freeholders, formerly known as freeholders commissioners, we want to thank you for our celebration of Black History Month for the county of 2026, where the theme is a centennial of contributions and
collective efforts to the black culture of county commissioners. We want to thank everyone. Come on, you can a 100red years of celebrating celebrating not contributing but a 100red years of celebrating Black
History Month in the United States. So on behalf of the county commissioners, we want to thank everyone for attending and everyone that is actually looking on live stream. So in a 100 years we've we've provided honor to people who have contributed
their talent, their sweat, their blood to the culture of black history. And this year is no different. We have four individuals who have given their livelihood, their talents, and all the
good they have to pose county. As you can see, they're here today honoring them. Today we have Dr. K. Banks. Give a round of applause. Dr. Jay Foster, round of applause. Miss Lola Patterson, give a round of
applause. And yours truly, Mr. Howard Horton. So before we begin, in honor of our proclamation, we're going to have our invocation and introduced by Dr. Ryan, Pastor Ryan. Amen.
>> Please stand. God our father, we are great grateful that you are here and that we are able to honor such wonderful people. It's my pleasure as chaplain to the the board to introduce the Reverend Sarah Anthony,
senior pastor of Grace Gospel Church. And we can all welcome her with a nice round of applause. Let us bow our heads. Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts as we gather to honor and celebrate history. A story woven with courage,
resilience, and faith. This evening, we give thanks for the generations who endured hardships, broke barriers, and pray paved the way for progress through their strength, wisdom, and unwavering hope. Lord, we acknowledge that the journey has not been easy. It has been
marked with struggle, sacrifice, and the steadfast belief in justice, equality, and dignity for all people. We are grateful for the leaders, the innovators, the educators, the activists, and the everyday local heroes whose contributions have shaped our
communities, our nation, and our world. Bless this gathering tonight and bless the P County commissioners as they serve this diverse and vibrant community. Grant them wisdom to lead with fairness, compassion to uplift every voice and
courage to stand for what is right. May their decisions reflect unity, opportunity, and respect for all. Help us not only to remember history, but to learn from it. To build bridges where there is division, to bring light where there is darkness, and to carry forward
a legacy of hope. Let this celebration inspire us to continue the work of celebrating a future where every child knows their worth, every neighbor is valued, and every dream has the chance to grow. May we learn, may we leave here
renewed in purpose, strengthened in unity, and committed to love, committed to justice, and committed to service. In your holy name we pray. Amen. >> Amen. >> May we remain standing as the choir
sings our black national anthem. Every voice sing This king's rolling sea usch. Let us victory. You may be seated.
Before I go any further, did Miss Ashante Johnson walk in the room yet? Oh, excellent. Let's give a round of applause. She come forth our poet for the evening, Miss Johnson. Good evening everyone. Um, it's nice to
be here in P County with you all again. My name is Ashanti Johnson Pope and I'm going to share a poem with you that I wrote in celebration of black history. The holidays ended and February snowed us in. I had a U-Haul and the help of my
dad moved me in my new apartment. I sat on the couch taking clothes, objects, and memories from my past out of bins. I couldn't help but to laugh, smile, and scream like we do in excitement. Grin, crack up, and even cringe like the smell of an old dress I had. It took me back
to the old church basement, vacation, Bible school, and upstairs in the pews. Turn to your neighbor and say, "Neighbor," the pastors say all over our soulful churches in unison. We don't play about God in Kjic, Baptist, Methodist. is all the same. Then I took
out a black metal heavy hot comb to place in my hair box in my bathroom. All I could smell was the burning and all I could feel was the sensation of the heat touching my neck and the smoke sizzled as my hair was pressed. Easter day birthdays and school pictures. I was
best dressed ruffled socks, poofy dresses and shoes from Payless. Matching purses, a satin coat and bees or barrettes. I laughed at the memory, y'all, because I remember coming home and my mother was upset that I ran around all day and obviously broke a
sweat. Do you know what happened when you sweat the hair that was pressed? Now my doobie is poofy, my roots soaking wet. But a time was had, so I had no regrets. Then came a picture of my family's barbecue. I vividly see my
cousin Bernie and my uncle Keith. He had in a brown leather sandal. We call those grill shoes. Something about them make sure the seasoning gets in the food at the cookouts. Oh, and Luther Vandro Shaka K playing for some grooves. Now the family is all lined up dancing to
tunes. Cha cha slide, Cupid shuffle, electric slide all over the spacing room. As the sun sets, it was spades at the table and moonshine in a cup. Dollar stat folks were getting were taking bets. I'm still trying to learn because my generation is next to carry
traditions of being unapologetically black. I said, "Oh, baby, being black is so fun. We all live universal experiences. Our culture really makes us one. Same house decorations, same recipes, and the same type of grandmothers who we would not put put
who we would put above anyone. Same faces that's clean, don't touch nothing when we get in that store. And same warmth of love when our feelings are sore. Same lingo, same energy. Mama says, "I'm not one of your little friends, but as hilarious as we are,
child, I get why you laughing with me." I mean, really, who is like us? We turn lemons to lemonade. I mean, really, I think that drink is like a staple in our community. It's bitter, yet it's so sweet. Struggles, lamentation, and even widespread grief. The challenges and
hurdles, but the getting back up because we just can't be beat. the ways that were paved and the survival instincts that we all learned and kept with us. Because no matter what it looks like, we never bow down to defeat. Soldiers, leaders, activists, you and me have
woven a thread of progress in black history. I'm loudmouthed for a reason. Because our people march for a cause in these streets. My skin is tougher than living in a brutal winter season like this one. Because my people have done heavy labor for free. And my feelings
are quite sensitive because my people, my ancestors, they weep for me. So every February I sit looking back over a hundred years, I see legacy. I see marches in the streets, signs held high. I see songs of freedom sung from church
steps to city blocks. I see hands calloused from work and hearts worn proud. I see the mothers who prayed and the fathers who fought. I see the scholars, the soldier, the poets, the artists. Each thread stitched into the tapestry
we walk on today. We've come so far, still laughing, still dancing, still building. From brown leather sandals at a backyard barbecue to black wall streets and classrooms to voices that can't be silenced. We've pushed, we've
risen, we've soared, and yet the road stretches ahead, still calling us to fight for more. to love deeper, to live higher. I feel it in my bones and the warmth of my family's kitchen and the music that spins me back to the youth of
my childhood and the stories that float in the air. We are here because they fought and we fight because we care. Every day, every struggle, every joy is a step forward. And as I sit among my bins and memories and laughter, I know
one thing for certain. Our past is heavy. Our legacy rich and the story the story is still ours to write. Thank you. >> Come on. Give it up. Give it up. Give it up. >> Now, Miss Johnson, you know, when you
listen to a poem, when it resonate, you got to connect with it. I definitely connected with the sweating not to hear part, but truly we thank you for what you've given. And the one thing I've learned and loved in the history of the hundred years we've celebrated. I love
the theme when we had our ancestors >> ancestors biggest and proudest pride. >> You are one of those. So, thank you for your poem. >> Thank you. >> Awesome. I'm look as she was writing her poem. Oh, she's saying her poem. I'm looking
at the audience and I and I I clock Mother McD McDaniel and I'm like, "Oh my goodness." I looked over here and I see all the patriarchs and the matriarchs whose shoulders we're sitting or standing on. So, I thank you all for showing up because trust and believe
this is something to remember. I appreciate you. 100 years of celebration. Give you give yourself a round of applause. So, it's okay. I'm nervous, but it's all good. I'm my ancestors wildest dreams. So, I
appreciate that. So, we're going to start with our first honore and we're going to have our deputy director Orlando Cruz come and give it to our illustrious first recipient. >> Wait, wait, wait, wait.
>> Let's give it up for deputy director, ORLANDO CRUZ. THANK YOU, COMMISSIONER D'VOR. I rather save the applause for the honores because they are the most deserving. And this evening we come uh year after year we celebrate African-American history, black history. Uh we take a moment to
honor those who have paved the way, those who are p pioneered, legacy leaders, uh educators, faith-based, nonprofit, those that are continuously working in our community. uh and oftent times um looking after those that are most vulnerable. And so these are the
people that we lean on uh to continue the great work uh that has been bestowed upon each and every one of us. And I remind everyone year after year that although we take one month to celebrate this, the story of America cannot be told without the history of the African-American community. And so thank
you. That's that's my neighbor. So she I set I set her up for that one. Thank you, Miss Har. Thank you. >> So, it is my honor to uh present the first proclamation to our first honor and individual that I have crossed path
with many times. I've worked a lot alongside her on various nonprofit boards currently on the Patterson task force. Uh and so it is my honor to present the first proclamation in honor Dr. Reverend Kate Banks. Please join me.
Whereas the month of February has been designated as Black History Month and its recognition of the unbounded contributions and achievements made by the exceptional African-Americans that have shaped this uh county and continue to shape our nation. Uh rich history,
bright future. This board of county commissioners of the county of Pake deems it fitting and appropriate at this time to honor and recognize Dr. K. Banks. Dr. Dr. K. Banks is an esteemed educator, faith leader, and community advocate whose lifelong dedication to
learning, empowerment, and service exemplifies the highest ideals of public and community leadership. Dr. Banks is a proud graduate of Patterson Public Schools. She's earned advanced degrees in education, administration, business administration, psychology, theology,
and related disciplines reflecting her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, lifelong learning, and the development of future generations. Whereas, Dr. Banks devoted 26 years of distinguished service to General Motors Acceptance Corporation where she served
as a liaison between employees and management and as an instructor of a workshop facilitator across New Jersey and Detroit. She also served in healthc care field in the healthc care field at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in the city of Patterson. Dr. Banks
continues to serve with passion and distinction in education at P County Technical Institute. That was that was the cue, guys. That was the Q where she supports student growth and development and has dedicated herself to mentoring young women through leadership
initiatives, deputant coalitions, and programs designed to instill confidence, dignity, and purpose. Dr. Banks is a licensed and ordained preacher of the gospel, and a devoted member of Christ Temple Baptist Church in the city of Patterson, where she has served faithfully as an instructor, teacher,
and minister. extending her ministry through local, national, and international outreach. Dr. Banks has demonstrated extraordinary civic and organizational leadership through her service in numerous local, state, national, and international organizations, including founding and
leading a nonprofit and faith-based initiative, serving in exe executive and board roles, and advancing causes related to education, civil rights, women's leadership, and community empowerment. Whereas Dr. Bent's exemplary service has been recognized
through numerous awards, citations, and proclamations honoring her dedication to education, faith, civil rights, community service, and where she is widely respected as a mentor, leader, and a role model. So now, therefore, let it be proclaimed by this board that it
here publicly recognizes and applauds Dr. K. Banks for her significant contributions that she has made to the county of Pose and the comm community at large. And let it be further proclaimed that this board wishes Dr. K. Banks health, happiness, and all her future endeavors. Congratulations
Floor is yours. >> Okay. He said the floor is mine. Good evening everyone. Good evening. Good evening. Good evening. I am so overwhelmed. Um mainly well first of all
I like to give reverence to God and to honor the board of commissioners. I honor them for feeling that I was worthy of this honor. So for this, I do not take it for granted because usually I'm
on the other side. I'm the one that's giving accolades and it's a little different tonight. So I was a little nervous because I'm not the one always receiving. But I truly thank um the commissioners and also
my cousin Rodney D'Vor um I call him cousin commissioner he calls me cousin doctor so um and his lovely wife I can't remiss in recognizing Deanna D'vour but to each and everyone who have come out
on tonight to help me celebrate um to those my family my organizations and just friends and family alike. I truly thank you for coming out and I am deeply humbled and honored to accept this
award. I don't take it for granted because um particularly when we revive the tradition that recognizes um black women because for so many years and so so often it's dismissed whether it's
intentionally non-intentional or whether it's just looked over. So I truly don't take this for granted and for our ancestors who have gone on before us to pave the way the shoulders that we stand on the legacy that they have created and
the legacy that we're still here to pursue. So I truly truly thank God for that and on tonight and I also would like to recognize my other honores constituents those who will be receiving awards as well for their position and
what they have done in the community and what we continue to strive to continue to do in the community alike. And we um have come here for such a time as this because the centennial, the 100 years,
and we're here for that. >> This is something to really really thank God for for this time that we're being honored. So I do not take it for granted because we do the work not just one
month, not just 28 days because it is the shortest month of the year but we do it 365 days. So we will continue to strive and do what God has called us to do. And then what I would like to leave
with you all here this evening um with our success and what we are doing and how we are pursuing we have to ask ourselves the question where do we go from here and going from here and knowing that there's work out there to
do we don't do it for accolades because what I do is from the heart and that's why I said I don't look for awards to be honored But for those who thought enough to think that I should have and when
they're reading um when you were reading I I'm like well maybe I should take a seat cuz is he really talking about me? But I truly I think this was longer than my speech but nevertheless I truly thank God and I'm going to ask you the
question. We asked where do we go from here? But in what we're doing, we can actually say if not me or you can say if not you then who? So that's what I'll
leave with you tonight. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Before I sit down, I really would like to also give honor to the mayor of this great city in his absence, Mayor Andre S. Absolutely. I'm going to ask her family to come up
and my fellow commissioners to come up to take pictures. Dr. Banks wanted to thank her organizations for coming out and supporting her. Uh, in addition to our proclamations from the county commissioners, we have citations from Senator Benji Wimberly, uh, county clerk
Danielle Island himhoff, county surrogate Sola Castanova, and Sheriff Adamo, uh, as well as I think that's it, right? And Congresswoman Nelly Poe. All right, so those all citations along with our proclamations or each one will get
the same thing. All right. Our next honore will be introduced and presented by our newly elected Mike Ramlia. Commissioner, give him a round of applause. Good evening everyone. Thank you, Commissioner.
So, it's good to see everybody here tonight on this uh joyous occasion and this very special night. And with that being said, uh if Dr. Judith Foster would come forward, PLEASE. Stand right. So whereas the month of February has
been designated as Black History Month and in recognition of the unbounded contributions and achievements made by exceptional African-Americans that shaped and continue to shape our nation and county's rich history and bright future. The board of county commissioners of the county deems it
fitting and appropriate this time to honor and recognize Dr. Judith Foster. And whereas Dr. Judith Judy Foster a li lifelong resident and devoted servant of the community has dedicated over 50 years to the field of social work
providing advoc advocacy counseling and support to individuals and families across the wide spectrum of social service needs and whereas Dr. Foster has served with distinction as a hospice medical social worker and grief counselor, care worker or excuse me, care social
worker, a family case manager and crisis prevention counselor, an adult medical daycare care social worker, a homeless prevention outreach social worker, and a Medicare and Medicaid social worker serving city, county, and state populations. And whereas Dr. Foster has
demonstrated exceptional leadership in correctional and re-entry services, including serving as a director of the Millisent Fenwick House, a community release program for women transitioning from incarceration at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility and as a lifetime
advocate collaborating with parole, probation, drug court, and New Jersey re-entry systems. Whereas Dr. Foster began volunteering at Pade County Jail in 2005 where she founded Project Reconnect, Pathfinder, and the
womento-women support groups, later serving as the chaplain and social worker providing individual and group counseling, family advocacy, and postrelease support that continues to this day. And whereas since 2016, Dr. Foster has served the Pay County
Sheriff's Community Policing Department as a liaison advocate to all 16 municipalities with a primary focus on the city of Patterson providing comp compassionate advocacy and coordinated social services to underprivileged populations. Whereas Dr. Foster has
partnered extensively with faith-based, community-based, and governmental organizations throughout Pay County and the state of New Jersey, fostering collaboration across cultural and faith lines and strengthening support systems for families, women, men, children, seniors, veterans, and individuals
re-entering society. And whereas Dr. Foster has served as a foster parent, a court-appointed guardian for disadvantaged elderly adults, a board member and president of multiple nonprofit organizations, an ambassador for New Jersey re-entry, and a mentor to
countless individuals. Always guided by her personal motto. There are no big eyes and no little U's, but to God be the glory. Now therefore be it proclaimed the PY County Commissioners that is hereby publicly recognized and applauds Dr.
Judith Foster for her contribution she has made to the county of Payic and to the community and be it further proclaimed that the board wishes Dr. Judith Foster health and happiness in all her future endeavors. Thank you very much. God bless you.
This is for you. Um, good evening everyone and thank you all for coming out. Um, I would like to first thank my honor my my honorary godaughter um, assembly to bond to something. I'm getting a little nervous
too. I'm like uh, Mr. De Boy. >> I was nervous to point. >> Okay. So I'm going to read I'm going to read good evening everyone and congratulations to all of the honores. I would like to thank my honorary godaughter assemblywoman Siobhan
something for choosing to honor me and would like to thank Mr. Rodney D'vor and the entire state county commissioners for deciding to honor me. I would like to thank my daughter, my niece, all of my family, my bonded family members for
your love, your prayers, and your support. I thank the state county sheriff department for your love, your prayers, and your support to me at all times in each division and each department. I thank you all so so so
very much as well. Um, my main purpose is to say that if I can help anybody, somebody and everybody along the way. So, this is coming from me. So, I'm not nervous.
My my labor and my life will not be in vain. It will not be in vain. If I can help anybody, everybody, somebody as I walk this journey over 50 years of work, I'm very humble. Most people know
me. I don't like to be called Dr. Foster. I like to be called Miss Foster, Miss Judy, Mama Judy, or Aunt Judy. This is who I am. I'm speaking from my heart and my mind to you all tonight.
So, I love you all so very much. And thank you so very much for considering to honor me as well. >> That last part is me. >> Congratulations. >> If I can get my Judy's family and friends and my fellow commissioners to
come and take a picture with her. Was that good, Dr. Foster? We will now have a selection, another selection by the choir. Night is dark and
the I won't be afraid. Don't be afraid as long as you stand by me.
>> Darling, darling, stand by me. Oh, stand by me. >> Stand by me. should crumble and fall or the mountain
should crumble to the sea. I won't cry. I won't cry. No, I won't shed tears. Just as long as you stand
by me. >> Stand by me. >> Stand by me. by me. >> Oh, I'll stand. stand by Stand by me.
>> Stand by me. >> Stand by me. >> Stand by me. Thank you, choir. If you look around, I believe to my my right, your left, uh there's a few art
pieces in the room. Um we have a few pieces here and downstairs. We want to thank our artist for that. Malik Hill as well as Air Kati. So when you go downstairs, yes,
you'll see some more artwork. So our next presenter is our other newly elected county commissioner, Miss Christine Stretch, who will give a proclamation to our next honore. Let's give a round of applause to our next newly elected commissioner.
Okay, good evening everyone. >> So, I have the pleasure and the honor of presenting this proclamation to Miss Lola Patterson. Mrs. Patterson, if you can join us, please. So whereas Lola Patterson has devoted
over 36 years of distinguished service to the New Jersey Association of Correction, demonstrating ating unwavering commitment to the rehabilitation, reintegration, and empowerment of justice involved women. And whereas throughout her
exemplary career, Miss Patterson has served in numerous vital programs across the state of New Jersey, including Pose County Women's Center in Patterson, Broadtown House in Newark, General Management, and Clinton House in Trenton, and the Specialized Re-entry
Program for Women in Newark. And whereas Miss Patterson currently serves as program supervisor of Millisent Fenwick House in Patterson, where she manages daily operations and provides exceptional leadership, guidance, and
support to staff and clients alike. And whereas Miss Patterson is widely recognized for her intelligence, compassion, professionalism, humility, and dedication, earning the utmost respect of colleagues and the
individuals she serves, while consistently demonstrating a commitment to bringing people together and leading with integrity of mind, body, and spirit. And whereas through her tireless work with individuals of diverse ethnic
and cultural backgrounds, Miss Patterson has been instrumental as a change agent, helping clients confront challenges, adopt healthier lifestyles, and successfully reintegrate as productive members of society. And whereas beyond
her professional achievements, Miss Patterson is an active community member, a devoted member of Faith Chapel Reformed Church in Patterson, a participant on the NJAC accredention team, and a lifetime member
of the National Council of Negro Women. And whereas the P County Board of Commissioners, Pose County Board of County Commissioners wishes to formally recognize and commend Lola Patterson for her extraordinary career, her lasting
impact on the lives of countless individuals, and her invaluable contribution to Pay County and the state of New Jersey. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that the Pose County Board of County Commissioners does hereby honor and commend Lola Patterson for
outstanding service, leadership, and dedication, and extends its deeply appreciation and best wishes for continued success and fulfillment in all her endeavors. Be it further proclaimed that this proclamation be spread upon
the official records of Pay County as a lasting tribute to her remarkable legacy of service. Congratulations. Going to hold this straight. Good evening everyone. >> Good evening. >> I'm honored to be standing here today to
receive this community award. Serving my community has been a joy and a privilege that I'm grateful for every single day. I wouldn't be able to do it if it wasn't for the amazing people in Patterson and throughout the state of New Jersey.
Um, I am grateful for all the people that helped me along the way. And as I call your name, would you please stand up for the prayers and encouragement? Reverend Daryl Rman, Reverend Cheryl Daniels,
and Dr. Judy Foster. You guys have have led me along the way. All the prayers and encouragements you have given me. Uh, my family. I'm the proud mother of two sons, two
grandchildren, and one special great grandson. He can't come in my house because he runs too much all day. I have three siblings. Uh, one of my two of my siblings are here tonight, Mil Hodes and
Essie Patterson. and family members who are always willing to listen and is very supportive of me. My church family, would my church family please stand? >> I am thankful and grateful for my church
family. We come together often to fellowship and give back to the community with fun activities, toys, Christmas, toys at Christmas for clients and children and providing a home-cooked meal for our our clients during
Thanksgiving and we are appreciative for that. For my staff, do you please stand please? I I can't express how grateful I am for my amazing colleagues. I would also like to thank um Fly
Women's Network. Is Miss Holmes here tonight? Miss Miller? Oh, I saw her earlier. Um for recognizing me in this accepting this incredible award. I'm thankful and grateful for PT County
Commissioners Board for accepting Miss Holmes and for Mr. Commissioner D'vor for my nomination. I really appreciate that. I have worked at the New Jersey Association on Corrections for 36 years throughout the state. Patterson, New
York, Trenton, and New Brunswick. Finwick houses a residential community release programs of women in Patterson. We are contracted by the New Jersey Department of Corrections. Njac mission is helping people with a past
build a future and becoming a productive member of societies. I'm sorry, I'm a little nervous. Becoming a productive member of society. God has blessed me and continues to walk with me daily through this journey. And
thank you so much. call your family and friends up >> for a picture. Is that okay? >> Yes, sir. >> Awesome. Thank you very much. Move it to the side and have my colleagues come down for a quick picture. All right. All right. Just so you know,
for your patience, after we are done, we have refreshments downstairs. So, for your indulgence and patience, we're going to feed you. All right. So, it gives me great pleasure to give proclamation to the last individual who I've known for quite some
time. We're going to have uh should I say brother Howard Horton come up. I just wanted everybody to see that I owned the black suit that was that was for cashmere as an insider.
Whereas the month of February has been designated as Black History Month and in recognition of the unbounded contributions and achievements made by exceptional African-Americans that shaped and continue to shape our nation and county's rich history and bright future. The board of county
commissioners in the county pose deems it fitting and appropriate at this time to honor and recognize the honorable Howard H. Horton. And whereas Howard is a distinguished nonprofit executive, civil leader, and community advocate whose career reflects
an unwavering dedication to equity, responsible stewardship, and the well-being of the most vulnerable residents of P County. And whereas as chief executive officer of Eva's Village in the city of Patterson, Mr. Horton leads one of New Jersey's most
comprehensive anti-poverty and behavioral health health organizations, strengthening its fiscal foundation, enhancing program accountability, and expanding its capacity to serve thousands of individuals and family each
year. That was a mouthful, my friend. Whereas through his advocacy and leadership, Mr. Horton has elevated the needs of those facing hardships by engaging local, state, and federal elected officials, including myself, in securing critical investments from P
County and the state of New Jersey. Thank you, Assemblywoman Sumpter. And to expand shelter capacity, improving traditional housing, and developing new non- congregate shelter solutions. And Mr. Halton brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience across
the nonprofit, healthc care, media, and pharmaceutical sectors with experience in financial strategy, governance, organization restructure, and long-term sustainability guided by a belief that strong commu communities are built
through collaboration, compassion, and accountability. And whereas Mr. Holton has demonstrated a deep commitment to public education and transparent governance through his elected service on the Englewood Public School District Board of Education, including his tenure
as board president and through appointed civil role serving county, regional, and statewide institution. And whereas a first generation college graduate, Mr. Horton embodies the promise of opportunity through education,
leadership and service, drawing strength from the his rich multicultural heritage and maintaining lifelong dedication to civil rights, youth development and community empowerment. And whereas Mr. Horton leadership, integrity, and
service has earned him the respect and trust of residents, nonprofit organizations, public institutions, and community partners throughout Pay County and the state of New Jersey. Now, therefore, we are proclaimed by the P
County Board of County Commissioners that is hereby publicly recognized and applause Howard H. Horton for the significant contributions he has made to the county of Pake and to the community. And be it further proclaimed that this board wishes Howard H. Horton health and
happiness in all his future endeavors. God bless you MY good evening. Of course, I'm one of the tallest people that's presenting this evening or talking this evening, but by no stretch of the imagination, I
don't think that um I've accomplished nearly as much as some of the delightful women that have been celebrated this evening. I really want to acknowledge their work, their long-term work here in the community, and the uh amount of support that came with them.
also want to thank the commissioners. Thank you very much for this this honor, this recognition. Really appreciate it. I have to say um and giving honor to God. Let's be clear, the work that we're doing here, we do together as a
community. This recognition isn't about me. It's about the people that helped to make all things happen. Eva's Village has been here long before I came around. It's been here for over 40 years. And many people know it as Eva's Kitchen. And oftentimes when we talk
about the organization, you can tell who's known it for a while based on the name, what you call it. What's what what's really important is it's not about me. It's about the community. think back to the storm that just passed and I think back to some of my
colleagues, some who just came through the storm to show up and be there when other people wouldn't go out to go to work. The woman who walked to work from her home because mass transit wasn't running. The person
that pulled a double shift because another person couldn't make it. someone else who left her children with a neighbor so that she could be there to ensure that people were being cared for. That's the commitment and dedication that you get not only at an Eva's
village, but at other organizations here in Patterson. That's community and that's what we celebrate. Whether it's Black History Month, Black History, Latino history, whatever it is, it's community. And I'm grateful that we
can be here and celebrate one another for the contributions that we're all making. Thanks to the youth that sang this evening, you were phenomenal. And for those of you that I haven't met yet, I look forward to meeting with you. From those from Fenwick, I look forward
to talking with you. Um, and uh, Miss, let's see, hold on. Miss Patterson and Dr. Foster. Miss Foster, Dr. Foster, the many names that you want to be recognized by. I want to learn from you. You have something to teach.
You have a lot to offer, and I look forward to gleaning that knowledge from you. Thank you for this honor. >> Sorry, one last thing. You know, the other thing I don't do well at receiving accolades and awards. Let's let our work speak for ourselves. My wife and my kids
are upset with me because I didn't tell them until this morning when I was see >> but for good reason. Two boys in college. One's a senior in high school. We got to make sure his grades stay up, right? My wife's got to make sure he's there. My brother tried to get here from
Florida. But at the end of the day, what matters most is all of you. >> Amen. >> Brother got one brother with you. God is here. Take an alpha picture. Micah. All right. At this time, I'm
going to turn back over to our bis our county administrator to introduce our dignitaries. >> Thank you, Commissioner. We're honored to have a lot of dignitaries here with us tonight. Uh including Assemblywoman Siobhan Sumpter. I think she might have left. Um our P County Clerk Daniel Nimhof. Thank you for joining us. her
deputy clerk Nuisa Towek, uh, Assemblyman Kinyatta Stewart, newly appointed to the Appropriations Committee. You'll be hearing from me, Assemblyman. Um, City of Patterson Councilwoman Ruby Cotton. Thank you, Councilwoman Cotton, for being with us. Um, Senator, uh, Benji Wimberly's chief
of staff, uh, Evette Roland. Uh, Christine Tisio, the vice chair of the P County Democratic Committee and former Woodland Park Council Woman. Um Janet McDaniel, the chairwoman of the Patterson Town uh Patterson task force. Uh Brian Jackson, the president of the
Pay County Construction and Buildings Trades Council and the uh Commissioner on the Pay County Improvement Authority. On behalf of our sheriff, uh Thomas Adama, we have under sheriff uh Timothy Wheeler, uh Chief Katherine Bonia, uh Warden and Woodland Park Councilman
Lewis Torres, and uh our deputy OEM director, Robert Scott. So, with that, I'll turn it back over to Dr. D'vor and the uh text. So, I'm going to save my thank yous to everyone else for my commissioner
report, but I want to thank Professor Martinez and Dr. D'Vor and the Bulldog Tech Choirs for coming out. And once again, when they're done, we're going to let you guys go downstairs, have some something to eat, check out the artwork, and again, I thank you for
showing up. And we're gonna end on a good note with the techone choir. >> Melodies. Come on. Break down. Break down. from heaven down
from heaven down from down Amen. Amen. Follow me. I could be so happy.
I never knew I love you. Day Monday. Heat. Heat. love but you don't want to love but you
want to love but you want to love but you don't want to love the day we will conquer super love. >> All I want to do, all I want to do is
make you proud. >> My heart All I want to do >> All I want to do is make you >> love but you are the one. You are the source
of my strength. >> You are >> You are the strength of my life. >> You are >> You are the source of my strength.
>> You are >> You are the strength of my life. I live my praise to you.
Amen. Amen. Amen. Amen. Amen. Thank you once again everyone. You are more than welcome to go downstairs on our first floor and have a bite to eat.
Get home safely as we conduct our meeting. We will speak with you shortly. Thank you very much. Thank you. I can't be Okay, we're going to move on. Um, >> thank you everyone.
>> We're going to start off with our uh county commissioner reports. >> I'd like to commend Commissioner D'vor on a wonderful program tonight. You did awesome and what great honores.
>> Great job. And uh that's my Yeah. Uh I'll just also commend my colleague here for a great program, great choice of honores. Um all have made significant impacts to our community. So congratulations to all. Thank you. That's all I have.
>> I second both my colleagues. This was a terrific day. Rody, thank you very much. >> Uh Commissioner D'vor, >> thank you. As I as stated, I would use my time to thank everyone that helped out with this particular program,
especially I know in the program it's it's it's last, but definitely uh Lisa, Jasmine, Viv, and Shayla for doing the programs, proclamation, setting it up, uh making sure all the jigsticks were done. It this this does not get done
without those four at those five. You guys run us smoothly. You run a very good program. So, I want to thank my colleagues for uh helping out with the proclamations. I want to thank the deputy uh deputy director u uh commissioner Stratz uh Commissioner Amalia for helping out with the
proclamation. A lot to be said. Uh county administrator um actually a director, thank you for the confidence in doing so. And everyone that attended, our department heads, we thank you for for doing what you do. And I'm always I'm always going to say please and I'm
always going to say thank you. So again, thank you. >> Um, Commissioner Raglia. >> So no report. Just want to say uh thank you to Commissioner D'vor for allowing me to participate in the proclamation ceremony and it was a great job. Well
done. Thank you. >> And Commissioner Shatz. Yes. Um, I also want to say uh congratulate Commissioner D'vor and Mrs. D'vor. She did an amazing job like always. The students from PCTVs and all the honores.
Congratulations again. I do want to report that I um I attended three well two events director. It was the digin community garden grant awards on February 3rd representing the county
commissioners and also United Way for their grand opening for the Clifter location. And um I also was present for a cleanup in Pay on Broadway, one of our county roads. And I also want to commend
Director Simpson. He did a great job. >> That's all from me. Thank you. Um, we're going to move on to the oral per portion of the meeting. Um, if anyone would like to come up and say a few words, you have
three minutes to speak and to state your name and address. >> I have a motion to open. >> So moved. Second. >> Yeah. and John.
>> So that was moved by D'Vor, seconded by Bartlett. >> Okay. Roll call. >> County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. >> Magia, >> yes. >> Trz, >> yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. >> Director Lazar,
>> yes. >> And seeing no one at the podium, uh, director, I move to close. >> Second. >> Okay. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. >> D'Vor, yes. >> Maggalia, yes. >> Stratz, yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes.
>> Director Lazera, >> yes. Uh, could I have a motion to open up um the voting for the resolutions for the consent agenda? >> Um, can we move? >> Wait, first we got to do I
>> Yeah. >> L. Can those be moved together or separately? >> They just require two vote >> together though. >> I'll move out one and two. >> So John >> second
roll call. >> Second by >> county commissioners Bartlett. Yes. >> D'Voraglia. Yes. Tratz. Yes. >> Deputy director Cruz. Yes. Director Lazar. >> Yes.
Okay. Could I have a motion to move the consent agenda? >> So moved. Second. >> We um Devor and Reag once. >> Uh we we did a >> L1 and L2. You did them together. >> Did it together? Yes. >> Okay. >> So the consent agenda was moved by
>> Magne. You flip. >> I'm sorry. >> Second. I need help here. All right. Okay. >> Moved by D'vor, second by Ramali. >> Do we have any agenda items?
>> Second. >> It was moved by D'vor. Second by Remaglia. County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'vor, >> yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. >> Trz, >> yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. >> Director Lazaro, >> yes. >> And
we have a vote on the consent agenda. uh director. Uh N1 is uh our our yearly um capital bond ordinance introduction. Uh it's a $22 million uh bond ordinance, $12 million of uh county monies from our capital improvement fund, our road fines
trust. uh funds uh a number of infrastructure and facility improvements, uh road resurfacing, uh bridge and covert and drainage repairs, facility improvements, equipment purchases. Um if there's any other questions,
you have to read it. >> Yeah, >> okay. Have a motion to move N1 if I can read. >> Oh, you want to read it? Okay. Uh bond ordinance uh bond ordinance 2026-01 bond ordinance to authorize the making
of various public improvements and the acquisition of additional or replacement equipment and machinery and new communication and signal system equipment in by and for the county of Payic State of New Jersey to appropriate the sum of 22 million to pay the cost
thereof to appropriate the county trust fund monies to make a down payment or fully or partially fund appropriations from the capital improvement fund to authorize the issuance of bonds to finance such appropriations and to
provide for the issuance of bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Okay. Cruz and D'Vor roll call.
>> Okay. County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'vor. >> Yes. >> Maggalia. >> Yes. >> Stratz. >> Yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz. >> Yes. >> Director Lazar. >> Yes. >> All right. Bond ordinance 2026-02. bond ordinance to authorize the
undertaking of the Pay County Courthouse annex, former US Customhouse, exterior restoration project in, by and for the open space uh space trust fund of the county of Bayic, state of New Jersey to
appropriate the sum of 45 of I'm sorry, 4 million uh 500,000 to pay the cost thereof to appropriate a state grant to authorize the issuance of bonds to finance such appropriations and to provide for the issuance of bond
participation notes in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds. >> And director through you before we vote on this, this is um uh an ordinance that will uh fund the uh exterior improvements at the courthouse annex building. Um as you know, we're currently um under construction right
now on the historic courthouse. Um that's slated to be completed um sometime over the summer if everything goes to plan. Um, and so now we're moving on to uh the historic structure next door funded um by a 2.25 $2.25 million grant from the New Jersey
Historic Trust uh with the balance coming out of our open space farmland and historic preservation trust fund. >> That's great. >> So moved. I was going to just say motion. D'vor >> second by >> I'll second it.
>> County commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. >> Magia, >> yes. >> Trz, >> yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. >> Rectal, >> yes. Okay. Have a motion to move the personnel agenda. >> I'll move the personnel agenda.
>> Second. >> Cruz and Portland. County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'vor, >> yes. >> Magia, >> yes. >> Uh, Schratz, >> yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. >> Director Lazaro,
>> yes. And can I have a motion to move the bills? >> The bills. Second. >> Second. >> County Commissioners Bartlett. >> Yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. >> Remagia, >> yes. Tratz, >> yes. >> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes.
>> Director Lazar, >> yes. And >> madame director, before we adjourn, uh through you uh to Matt and and even Nordon, uh the city of Patterson has a agenda item on their in their council meeting tonight preventing a left turn
uh off of Ward Street onto Hamilton. I'm just if you guys can look into that only because I don't if you prevent a left there's no other way to get onto Hamilton and then Lee Place. If you prevent a left turn off a ward, I don't see how anyone else can access the Board
of Social Services building or any of those other properties around there. It's it's on their agenda tonight. So, I mean, I hope we're not too late, but there the resolution says left turn from Ward onto Hamilton. They're they're looking to prevent that left turn.
>> Yeah, I'll certainly talk to the county engineer. >> Someone just texted it to me. That's why I brought it up. I'm I'm thinking it never came to us because I don't think either one of those are county roads. >> Yeah. But I'll certainly talk to Nordon and >> just the impact to our Yeah. >> to our property, the courthouse and
board of social services, etc. >> Thank you, director. That's that's all I have. >> Thank you. >> I have a motion to adjourn. >> So moved. >> Second. >> County Commissioners Bartlett, >> yes. >> D'Vor, >> yes. >> Magia, >> yes. >> Trz, >> yes.
>> Deputy Director Cruz, >> yes. Uh, director Lazar. >> Yes. Okay. Thank you everyone.