The board of commissioners regular meeting for September 30th, 2025. Uh, may I have a roll call, please? Commissioner Barlet here. Cruz here. D'Vor here. Duffy. James here. Deputy Director Lazar here.
Director Leapour here. Announcement of the open public meeting law. 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 included in the annual notice, adopted the reorganization
meeting, and filed with the county clerk, posted administration building, and mailed to two newspapers in accordance with the provisions of the law. Please stand for the pledge of allegiance. Commissioner Cruz, please join me by placing your hand over your heart and pledging allegiance to
our 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. We'll have the invocation by Father
Patrick Ryan. Father, Lord, help me to live this day, what's left of it, quietly, easily, to lean upon your strength, trustfully, restfully,
to wait for the unfolding of your will. patiently, serenely to meet others peacefully, joyfully to face tomorrow confidently and courageously. Amen.
Amen. Please remain standing for a moment of silence to remember all the men and women who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Thank you. Take a motion to approve the minutes of September 9th, 2025. So moved.
Moved by Cruz. Second. Second by Lazar. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'vor. Yes. James. Deputy director Lazera. Yes. Dire director Leapour.
Take approval of proclamation. A motion. Mot. I'll make that motion. Second. By Cruz. Second by Bartlett. I'm sorry. Roll call. Close. Accounting commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'Vor. Yes. James.
Deputy Director Lazar. Yes. Director Leapour. Yes. Administrator's report. Oh, thank you, director. First, we have a presentation of the New Jersey chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Official Scholarship Awards. I'm going to turn this over to Commissioner Barllet and Commissioner D'vor.
and Janice too if you could come up. Our executive director of the housing agency. Thank you. He's not here yet. Janice is the expert and will do all the talking. Rodney is our newly elected chairman of the housing commission. So I'm not here right now as the
executive director of the housing agency. I am here on behalf of New Jersey Narrow, which is a state housing association. As Matt said, it's the New Jersey chapter, the national um association of housing and redevelopment officials. And what we do aside from
training employees of housing authorities throughout the state is give out scholarships to people who want to further their education and reach their goals. It's one of the favorite things I think that I like about the association
and I've been serving on it for 12 years. And in my opinion, we give out the best scholarships. They're big scholarships and whether you're graduating from high school and going to college or later on in life and you want to further your education, we will help
you out if we can. Um, and the scholarships are flexible also. they're made out to the recipient. So, they can spend it on computers, tuition, whatever they need. So, that's a nice fact about the scholarship also. And before I call the recipients up, I
just would like to thank my staff members that are here, Maria Heraldo and Clarissa Manaris, because without them, they're always working diligently to make sure our residents apply for these
opportunities and without them, they wouldn't even be applying. So, we wouldn't be here tonight. So, thank you for that. So, I'm pleased to announce two P County residents won a scholarship this year from New Jersey Narrow. And the first one I'll call up is Doria
Heris. [Applause] Come on up, Doria. So, Doria works full-time at the Superior Court in Essex County in the criminal division. And while she's doing that, she's also
attending Berkeley College. and she's expecting to graduate with her associates degree in December of 2025, criminal justice. Right after that, she plans on pursuing her bachelor's degree. And while doing all
this, she's also raising three children. And Doria has won a $1,500 scholarship, and it is renewable next year also. So, she can reapply and get 1,500 more next year. So congratulations to you Doria and we wish you the best on the rest of your
journey. Thank you so much. Would you like to say a few words? Of course. Hi, I'm Doria Wertz. Um, I would like to thank uh Clarissa, the director, um, and
Maria very much cuz they're always emailing me and updating me on stuff that that's going on that we can apply for. And, um, they've been my cheerleaders since the beginning and just like I cheer my children on, which I pushed them through, uh, to vascular
synography, my daughter, and my son's Hback, and now a new chapter with my younger one with high school. and this is just me trying to accomplish what I wanted to do since they were born. So I think this is just a very great organization and I would like to thank
NJ Naro for this opportunity. [Applause] Congratulations Bruce, come take a picture. We're gonna take a picture, everybody, with you. [Applause] [Music]
Thank you everyone. Director, next we have our his Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. I'm going to clap for that. [Applause] I'll turn that over to Commissioner Cruz to run this program. Commissioner, thank you. Thank you all. Um before we begin, I
will ask everyone to please turn their attention to the video screens for a brief introduction video. What is National Hispanic Heritage Month? National Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration in the United States honoring the history,
contributions, and achievements of Hispanic Americans. Unlike celebrations such as Black History Month or Pride Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month does not correspond to one of the 12 months. Instead, the celebration lasts
from September 15th to October 15th, a period of time chosen to include the independence days of numerous Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, Mexico, and Chile. The month also overlaps with Dia de la, a Latin
American holiday that replaces Columbus Day to celebrate those of indigenous and European heritage. Initially, National Hispanic Heritage Month was much shorter in 1968. Congress passed a bill authorizing the president to declare the week of September 15th as
National Hispanic Heritage Week. Almost two decades later, Representative Estabbon Torres proposed a new resolution to extend the celebration to a full month in 1987. Although that bill did not leave committee, a similar one was passed soon after, leading to the first celebration
of National Hispanic Heritage Month in 1989. Since the celebration's inception, the United States's Hispanic population has grown rapidly from 9.1 million Hispanic Americans in 1970 to approximately 62.5
million in 2021. Notable Hispanic Americans such as Sono Mayor and Roberto Clemente have made important contributions to politics, sports, culture, and other areas. Today, National Hispanic Heritage Month
is celebrated with festivals, art shows, community gatherings, and more to commemorate the achievements of Hispanic Americans throughout the country's history. All right, once again, good evening everybody to
really We are known to be loud, but you guys are not that loud. So, how's everybody doing tonight? Good. Good. Uh, on behalf of the P County Board of Commissioner is my honor to welcome you to this year's Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. As a proud
Latino and son of this community, this celebration is deeply personal. It is a reminder of our roots, our struggles, and the incred incredible progress of our that our community has made. As we gather this evening at a time when voices and contributions of Hispanics
and Latinos across this country are more important than ever in this current political climate, we too often use the word division and negativity to dominate the headlines. But our community continues to show the true meaning of res resilience, unity, and hope. We are
not just a growing population. We are the growing force shaping the future of our country, county, state, and our nation. This moments like this make me think of the incredible Dolores Hua, one of the
greatest Latina leaders of our time. She co-founded the United Farm Workers alongside Cesar Chavez. And through her courage and activism, she gave voice to workers who were far far too long invisible. Dolores has spent her life fighting for dignity, justice, and
opportunity, not just for Latinos, but for all people. Her famous words see S seue have became have become a rallying cry across generations reminding us that when we unite we organize we believe that anything is possible. So that same
spirit is alive here in P County tonight. We are proud to recognize a remarkable group of honores who like Dolores dedicate themselves to lifting up others. There are leaders, innovators, and role models who inspire us to prove that our community is not defined by barriers, but by doors that
we open for the next generation. So tonight, as we celebrate our heritage, let us be inspired. Let us remember that our culture is not something that we just celebrate this month, but it's something that we live in with pride every day. Together, we are building a stronger P County, a more united New
Jersey, and a brighter future for all. Thank you. [Applause] So, we are going to begin our program with our first honore and she is going first because she's on
duty and barring any catastrophe out there, she's going to hang out with us as long as she can. So, allow me to call up Ashley Boogie Sanchez. [Applause] That's me.
That's you. And uh Ashley and I and her family go way back. We're not going to tell all those stories, but this proud uh moment here of significance. Ashley is the first female to ever serve on the rescue squad for the Patterson Fire Department.
So, it is my honor to read this proclamation into the record. Whereas the county of Pake and the state of New Jersey and the United States of America are celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month from the month uh September 15th through October 15th. And in recognition of the outstanding achievements and contributions made by
many exceptional members of the Hispanic community over the years, this board of county commissioners finds it fitting and appropriate at this time to honor and recognize Ashley B. Sanchez. B is for boogie, by the way.
Ashley Sanchez, a proud female Hispanic American of Puerto Rican descent, was born and raised in the city of Patterson, New Jersey, where she has been a dedicated member of the community for 34 years. Her roots trace back to Puerto Rico, where her mother's parents, hailing from Camu, Puerto Rico, and her
father's parents from Manatei, further enriching her deep connection to her Hispanic heritage and culture. Ashley began her education at Dale Avenue School, continued on to school number three and school 27 where she graduated, and in 2009, she's a proud graduate of
our county technical high school, PCTI, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to the academic and personal achievements. Ashley began serving the city of Patterson as a constable, embodying the values of civic responsibility and public safety from an early age. In
2019, she joined Patterson's bravest, the Patterson Fire Department, as a firefighter and EMT. And through her dedication, courage, and excellence, she became the first female ever to be assigned to the Patterson Fire Department Elite Rescue Unit. Some of them are here, so let's give them a
round of applause as well. [Applause] Whereas Ashley is only one of nine female firefighters in the entire department, making her not only a trailblazer, but a symbol of progress,
inclusion, and representation in a traditionally male-dominant profession. Ashley is a certified urban search and rescue specialist with advanced certifications in trench rescue, ropes, rigging, and structural collapse, making her an invaluable asset to the emergency
response and rescue operations. Ashley serves as a role model to young women, Latinas, and all who strive to serve their community with honor, professionalism, and bravery. So now, therefore, let it be proclaimed by the board of county commissioners of the county of Pake, who publicly honors and
recognize Ashley B. Sanchez for her many years of work and service in bringing community resources, culture, and information to Pake County, Hispanic, and Latin communities. And therefore, let it be further proclaimed that this board wishes Ashley all health, happiness, and continued success.
Congratulations. We we also have for all of the honores special recognitions uh from our P County surrogate Zoya Kasanova and our madame uh Danielle Ireland Imhof, our county clerk. Thank you ladies for that.
So Ashley, the mic is yours. So I wasn't all prepared for this, but thank you guys. I appreciate being honored today. Thank you to my family for being here to support me. Also my sister, it's her birthday today. She still showed up.
And then also to my rescue squad back there. Thank you guys. My captain, he's brought me here. He's one of the main reasons why I became rescue. He made me guide through a lot of different things. But that's it. Thank you guys. I appreciate it. You guys can come up for a photo. Family
uh come up for a picture, group picture. and the rescue squad as well. If you guys want to join in, my colleagues Good J, come on. Get in the picture. Somebody else will take I'll text it to you.
Thank you. Congratulations again. [Applause] We uh as as always, we do have food and refreshments downstairs in the lobby for those of you who need to leave a little earlier, but we'll continue on with the program. At this time, I'll call up my colleagues, uh Commissioner Sandy
Lazera. [Applause] All right. So, I have the honor of presenting this proclamation to somebody who um is so richly deserves it.
If you know AJ, you know that he puts his heart and soul into the work he does with veterans and he will help any person that walks his way because that's the kind of guy he is. AJ um I have
certificates here also. Come on up. [Applause] So this is AJ. Now we have uh certificates from our surrogate Soila
Kasanova and for our from our clerk Danielle Ireland Immhof. Both those offices, the county clerk, no. Yeah, the clerk and Zo's office surrogate among many
other offices put in a lot of work that so that they can help veterans. But this is a team uh thing that we do here because there's not one person that can stand up and say, "Yeah, I don't like veterans." We love veterans, right? We
do. And AJ's one of the best. So AJ, if you'll just I'm going to read this and you're going to recognize a lot of things I'm going to say. Whereas the county of Pake, the state of New Jersey in the United States of America are celebrating National Hispanic Heritage
Month from September 15, 2025 through October 15, 2025. And in recognition of the outstanding achievements and contributions made by many exceptional members of the Hispanic community over
the years, the board of county commissioners of the county of Pake deems it fitting and appropriate at this time to honor and recognize Ariel Jacob Luna, also known as AJ.
Anyway, so whereas AJ is a Brooklyn native of Dominican and Argentine descent who has dedicated more than 20 years to serving our nation and its veterans with his work, touching thousands of lives through military
service, higher education, and government leadership. And whereas AJ began his military journey in 2000 with the US Army serving at Fort Gordon in South Korea and Fort Bragg and later
deploying to Iraq with the New York National Guard as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. [Applause] I could tell you more, but I don't want
to take away AJ's story. Anyway, AJ after his military service earned a bachelor's degree from Brooklyn College and a master's degree in administrative science from Fairley Dickinson University and used his education to develop national models for veteran
support at New York City College of Technology and Fairley Dickinson University, helping hundreds of veterans achieve academic success and prepare for meaningful careers. Whereas AJ in 2015 was appointed
director of veteran services for Bergen County where under his leadership the county achieved national recognition in 2016 for effectively ending veteran homelessness provide. How
amazing is that? Well, I'm certainly glad we got you here in P County because you belong here with us. providing housing assistance to over 425 veterans and securing jobs of more than
150 others. Whereas AJ with his contributions has earned him national recognition including the homeless veterans outreach award from the New Jersey American
Legion in 2017, the selection as VA's veteran of the day in 2018, and the Hispanic Star Change makers award at the United Nations headquarters in 2023.
Wow. AJ, you didn't tell me any of that. AJ continues to lead with compassion and purpose, founding the New Jersey SOS veteran stakeholders group, leading leading mental health and suicide prevention efforts across New Jersey,
and now managing the emergency housing assistance program, which has already helped over 500 veterans move from homelessness to stable living since early 2024. for
[Applause] whereas AJ remains dedicated not only to his professional mission but also to his role as a husband to Siobhan Murray Luna and a father to their daughters Mariah
and Alexandra also known as little AJ. Now therefore, let it be proclaimed that the board of county commissioners of the county of Pake publicly honors and recognizes AJ for his many years of work
and service in bringing community resources, culture, and information to the P County Hispanic and Latin communities. And let it be further proclaimed that this bo board wishes AJ health, happiness, and continued
success. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Oh, okay. All right. Such what a month, Commissioner. What a month for SE County. It's It's been
incredible. um you know with 9/11 and um last week we had the uh the Veterans Athletic United memorial at a rifle camp park. Um we had suicide awareness yesterday at uh
P County Public Safety. Anybody that that knows what we do and our partners like constantly trying to give back, right? Um, I'm very grateful for the partnership with P County, right? And I belong to everybody. My
mom's a proud P County resident, so I'm I'm P County. I just want to say, you know, I truly appreciate this because I know um, and I hope I could speak for everybody in the room. We all know what that struggle
feels like, right? But something about us, we always think it could get better. And I think that's really helped me um in developing who I am and doing the work that I do.
I have a lot of been very fortunate to have a lot of great people in my life. I got Dave Pearson from Catholic Charities. Want me back? and Yahaya Padilla who I also work with and she's the BSO here in SE County
and my wonderful family. I tell people all the time you know Dominican Argentine what a mix I know I tell people my my father loved my mother right and um my mother was a minister in Long Island for about 25 years so that's
where I get my patience from. Other stuff comes from my dad right which is a good mix. And I'm also very happy that um my daughter's here to to see this because she's always asking, "Daddy, what do you do?" And we brought
her to the to to the standown, an event that we do for homeless veterans at PCTI, right, which is the second time. And I just very grateful and honored to to be able to be part of a community that not only gives back, but we don't give up. and we make sure that
everybody, it doesn't matter what you are, you're in this great country, we're going to try to we're going to try to help you out. And again, you know, it's I'm a very very um enthusiastic optimist. So, anytime you tell me that it can't be done, I always try to figure
out a way to get it done. And I know that with what we've been able to do here in P County the last month has been incredible. Um definitely want to talk to you about your veterans in Pompton Lakes, right? Uh because we want to see how we can help help out with that. But um folks, I
mean, and I don't get a chance to use it that much. We have a lot to be grateful for. So, thank you all and I county commissioners. I appreciate your time. You're next. I know. I I read the
Why? Ready. [Applause] All right. to present our next honore, uh, my colleague, Commissioner Rodney D'vor. I'm sorry, you can't do that again.
[Music] Ronnie Dor, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Now you saying no, in all seriousness, you know, people have, you know, since I've been elected or since January, people have asked me,
"What do you like about the job? What do you like about being commissioned or commissioner?" Meeting people that's on the program today is what I like about being a commissioner because we get to see
people working hard for purse county years decades and when we get to meet them we say hey you know what we're representing them let's honor them and the people that on this program been working very hard and we've been
connected Miss Cologne 32 years I mean hardworking Ashley for a former bulldog PCTI. All right. AJ veteran services who I connected with. Great. And this next young lady
Jessica who I had the privilege of meeting with my colleague partner um uh uh Sandy Lazara and we went to Kumac and immediately meeting her. I fell in love
with her. Her energy was infectious. Her style, her work ethics was crazy. I said to someone, if you ever met Jessica, you would walk into a room, no money, destituted, she would pitch you
something. By the time you left her, you going out to rob somebody just to make sure her plan comes to fruition. That's the kind of person you have today. So, Jessica, come on up. [Applause] [Laughter]
You rock, girl. This is awesome. All right. My mom is extra nervous. So, no, no, no. I got to meet mom. So, very good. And you're you're a good friend. Yes. So the board of county commissioners, county pose, whereas the
county of Pake, the state of New Jersey, and the United States of America are celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15, 2025 through October 15, 2025. And in recognition of the outstanding achievements and contributions made by many exceptional
members of the Hispanic community over the years, the board of county commissioners of the county of Pay deems it fitting and appropriate at this time to honor and recognize Jessica Piza Pa Padia.
Pada Gonzalez. I'm learning my Spanish. I'm getting my tongue right. All right. And whereas Jessica Gonzalez is a shining example of such leadership rooted in the value passed down from Puerto Rican parents, hard work, compassion, service, and importance of
giving back. And Jessica grew up in the Washington Heights where she was inspired by her father who ran a small neighborhood meat market that always found a way to help those in need. And by her mother, Hey, Mom.
who showed her what it means to be strong independent Latina. And whereas Jessica went to went to earn a bachelor's degree in sociology and social work from the college of St. Elizabeth and a master's degree in public administration from Fairley
Dickerson University. And whereas Jessica is as just 29 years old became executive director of the housing partner. I mean your age is there. Don't don't blame me. at the age of 29 uh years of old became
executive director of the housing partnership for Morris County, helping families achieve home ownership and financial stability. And whereas Jessica since 2023 has served as a CEO of QUMAC, one of New Jerseys largest anti-hunger
organizations, leading vital programs that provide food and support services to thousands of families in need each year. [Applause] Whereas Jessica Jessica continues to
share her time and experience through volunteering work and nonprofit leadership, helping to build stronger, more connected communities across the state. And whereas Jessica is also a proud wife to her high school sweetheart and the mother of two amazing teenage daughters. God bless you. Continue to
lead by example and inspire the next generation to serve others with purpose and passion. And now therefore be it proclaim that the board of county commissioners of the county of Pay publicly honors and recognize Jessica Gonzalez for her many years of work and
work and service in bringing community resources, culture, and information to the P County Hispanic and Latina communities. Be it further proclaimed that the board wishes Jessica Gonzalez health, happiness, and continued
success. God bless. Look at it. Look at it. Look it. Absorb it. Absorb it. Absorb it. Oh my god. Thank you. Thank you. I um am I think this is the most nervous I've ever been because my mama's in the room. Hey, mom.
So, I want to say thank you so much to the county commissioners in the county for recognizing um me here in this beautiful honor. Um I also have to give a big shout out to Arty who's in the room back there. She was the first person to welcome me with open arms here and I feel like we've come together and
dream big and get things done whenever we can. So, I really do appreciate you. Um, this is really a a tribute to my parents, specifically my mom, like I mentioned, for dealing with me during my teenage years when I was crazy, but she never ever ever told me I couldn't do
something. So, I have the age of when I became the executive director because at 29, I was the youngest ED in a network of over 250 organizations. And I immediately knew what it felt like to be the only person in the room and being doubted. And what that did for me was
really encouraged me and pushed me as far as I could. And I've never given up because of that. And then for my dad, who's no longer here, he really was the person that showed me that community is all we have and that no matter where I am in life, I always have to give back and make sure that I support those um
around us and from my community. My daughters are not here today because they are working like, you know, teenagers need to start doing because they're expensive. And my husband is also not here because he's watching the kids. But they are my rock. They understand and support me when I'm working late and doing this work. And
then to my home girl who surprised me today. Thank you so much. I appreciate it. And like everybody said, it is really about the community that we surround ourselves with. And I will not be attempting to talk Spanish right now, but I will try. And then for KUMAC,
that's an organization that is near and dear to my heart. We are here. We are serving. We are trying to be innovative and making sure that no neighbor goes hungry in Pay County. So, I'm going to say it loud and proud. If you need support or you know someone that is in need of food, please feel free to reach
out to us because we will find a way to serve and make sure that every family in New Jersey has access to healthy and nutritious food. But thank you guys so much. My mom didn't know how to Okay, my friend is reading her. Come on, mom.
Thank you. Thank you. How how have we been doing so far with this fantastic lineup of honores? [Applause] And then there was one uh before I call up our next honore, I'm
just going to ask you guys one more time to please turn your attention to the video screens for a special message. Ready? [Music] [Music] Love you. Cheers. Congratulations.
[Applause] Look at that. Thank you so much for making an amazing daughter. I hope you have a fabulous day and a fabulous rest of your month. Cameron, I love you. Yeah, that's beautiful.
She didn't Foreign [Music] Puerto Rico. [Music] Please [Music]
[Music] [Music] We're so happy you're being recognized today. Your hard work and dedication has paid off. The family are so proud of you
and love you very much. Congratulations. Love you. Love you. Congratulations, Mom. So sorry I couldn't be there to celebrate with you, but I'm so so so happy of this great accomplishment.
Your uh fruits of your labor are finally here and I hope that you are accepting them with open arms because you truly deserve them. Thank you for being such a great role model for all of your hard work. And in spite of always being loyal
and always being there for your job, you always still put us first. So I really really appreciate the role model of hard worker and of a mother that you've been for us. Please continue to be you with your big heart and uh continue to be
great. I love you. See you soon. [Applause] I'm sorry, Ly. Mark Anthony wasn't available.
[Music] Oh jeez. Oh man. How do we go on from there? You ready? All right. At this time, ladies and gentlemen, our next honore, Lar Cologne.
[Applause] [Applause] So when we were putting this program together, you know, we kind of go through a couple different checklists and thought processes on who we honor and, you know, we had a phenomenal
lineup of honores today with all particular significance to this program. And um you know I said to the girls and to Lou in the office I said let's pick uh an employee of the county that has created such an impact uh that's immeasurable. And I think that over
30 years of service to this county is [Applause] that uh is significant enough for you to deserve this this honor. So whereas the county of Pay State of New Jersey in the United States are
celebrating National Hispic Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th and in recognition of the outstanding achievements and contributions made by exceptional members of the Hispanic community over the years, this board deems it fitting and appropriate at this time to honor
and recognize Ling Lar Colong. Lahi. Yeah, it's Lahi. That's it. Lahi was born on June 3rd. We won't say the year.
[Laughter] [Applause] At the age of seven, she came to the United States. And in July of 1984, that was the year I was born. Oh, I'm just saying. Just saying.
She settled here in Patterson, New Jersey, a city that would become the backdrop of her inspiring journey in public service. She attended school 24 from 3rd through 8th grade and later went on to P County Technical Institute. Yeah.
majoring in business administration. During her senior year at PCTI, the co-op program became her pivotal door opening opportunity. Uh, out of the five hopeful candidates, Lahi was selected after an interview with Lorraine Ibraim
and Becky Zas from the Pose County Adjusters Office. From 94 to 98, she served in the county adjusters's office with diligence and heart, always willing to lend a hand. uh assisting other departments whenever needed. And in 1998, she officially joined the county
council's office where she has remained a cornerstone of that department for over 27 years. Since then, Lahi has continuously grown, recently earning her parallegal certificate from P County Community College in 2022. What began as a part-time keyboarding
clerk position has evolved into a lifelong career rooted in service, growth, and leadership. Lah's greatest legacy, of course, is her family, where she has nurtured them with love and pride. Lady's dedication has not only shaped her career, but also inspired her children. Her daughter Cherylyn, who
once waited outside of her first job interview, is now a thriving professional salsa dancer and a human resources manager at the Hyatt Hotels. She was the last person in that video. Um, a fellow graduate of PCTI as well, Cherylyn began her education at PCC and
went on to earn her degree from Monontlair State University. Her son, Michael Pacheco, who's here, [Applause] also followed in her footsteps by also attending PCTI and PCC, reflecting that their values that they were raised with
effort, ambition, and purpose. Lar's beloved fiance. Uh, I'm gonna just say Tito. Tito. Tito. Yeah. Tito. You have a thing with Titos. Tito. Roa. Tito. I know. I get it.
Tito is a fellow lifelong resident of P County and a proud Puerto Rican. Together, their story is like a paranda filled with music, joy, and deep connection. She is also a caring daughter, loving sibling to two sisters and one brother, a proud aunt, a devoted
godmother. Each of them carry a piece in her heart and their accomplishments mirror her own values and dedication and resiliences. Li loves cooking uh nostalgic meals rich with soprito that brings everyone to the table dancing salsa with joy, singing karaoke, camping
with her family, and cheering for her beloved New York Mets. I don't care what you say. When nobody says when's there when's their game, Lah? Is it soon or nothing wrong with Mets fans?
Lahi, much of who Lahi is can be traced today uh with her matriarchs, her mother Valentine and her grandmother Justina Leone. two women who have loved and lessons still bloom within her like Puerto Rican's national flower laur de
magaga. Now therefore, let it be proclaimed by this board that it publicly honors and recognize Lar Colong for her many years of work and service to P County and her generous spirit and the light that she brings to all that she knows. Let it further be proclaimed that this board wishes her health,
happiness, and continued success. Congratulations [Applause]
I'm ready. I wasn't sure if I was able to. Hello all. Good evening, commissioners, distinguished guests, colleagues, and community members. Medencia.
I stand before you today deeply honored and incredibly humbled to receive this recognition for 32 years of service. First and foremost, I want to thank the commissioners for this tribute. Thank you all for your acknowledgement. Your acknowledgement means more than you
know. Serving the county has been one of the greatest achievements in my life and I am proud of the work we've accomplished together. I am proudly profoundly honored to receive this recognition. I can't even see. Sorry. And extend my deepest thanks to all who have contributed
to this moment. I can't see. Read it for me. I can't see. Oh, you can't see. Yeah. Is it the That's Yeah, I'm here. You want me to read it? Okay. Yeah. You want me to read it? Yeah. All right. Here we go. I'm right here. This distinction is not
solely contributed to this moment, but is as a reflection of the individual effort, but rather a testament to the unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement I have been fortunate to receive from all of you. To my family, gracias, gracias, porcel, fun. Your
love, patience, and unwavering support have carried me through all these years, and I'm forever grateful. Okay, let me say this part. All right, here we go. Sorry. She ain't care about y'all. She cares about No, no, no. I have to. I have to my previous boss, county administrator
Mike Matthew Jordan, I want to thank you for all your support, encouraging me to do my my parallegal certificate. Greatly appreciate it. To my boss, thank you so much for all your support. All you do
appreciate it. Did I read it? All your support encouraging me encouraging me to do better in what I do. I will forever be grateful for all your support. I also want to thank my former boss, Michael Glovin, for working together for 22 years. Thank
you for all you did, all you teach me, everything I learned from you. I greatly appreciate it. To my co-workers, past and present, you've been more than colleagues. You've been teammates, mentors, and friends. I've learned from each of you, and I am proud of the great work we've done
together. To my friends, thank you for keeping me grounded, for cheering me on, and for reminding me to keep laughing and keep my smile and be happy. Uh, thank you all for trusting me,
challenging me, and inspiring me. You've made these past 32 years meaningful, and I am honored to have created a career in Pay County. I remain humbled by this honor and inspired to continue striving towards excellence and continue serving the county of Pay for another 32 years.
Psych. I'm kidding. I'm kidding. I'm kidding. Thank you gratitude and respect. Thank you all for everything. [Applause] join the front. [Applause] Uh family and friends, join us for a photo, please.
[Applause] We lost Michael turn around. Good. All right. [Applause] Guys,
just give it up for all of our honores one more time. As I said earlier, there are uh there is food and refreshments downstairs in the lobby. my colleagues and I will continue on with our meeting which should not be long at all and uh
we'll be joining you guys down there but if you have to step out enjoy the food but uh thank you guys all for coming and uh we got the Super Bowl so that's all that matters. If you know, you know. Why? Any reason?
What time? Let them do it. [Music] Okay. All right. Commissioner Cruz, thank you for that program. That was wonderful. Congratulations to all the honores. Um, next I'm going to turn things over to
Commissioner Bartlett for a uh presentation of a proclamation recognizing uh ovarian cancer awareness month fund. So, Commissioner Bartlett, thank you very much, Matt. This will be quick because the folks I uh that is this being presented to are not able to join us tonight, but this is the second
year that we've paused in September uh which ends in just a few hours to recognize ovarian cancer awareness month. And I just want to read this proclamation into the record. Whereas ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of death among women. And the American Cancer Society estimates each
year approximately 19,680 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 12,740 individuals will die from this disease nationwide, including 590 new cases and 340 deaths in New Jersey. And whereas in the United
States, a woman's lifetime risk of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer is about 1 in 87. And whereas due to vague symptoms and the lack of reliable early detection test, most women are not diagnosed until stage three or later when the cancer has already begun to spread to the lymph
nodes and outside of the pelvis. And whereas although the 5-year survival rate for stage one ovarian cancer is over 90%. Only 15% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at this early stage and the five-year survival rate for latestage ovarian cancer is below 30%.
And whereas while a mammogram can detect breast cancer and a papsmear can detect cervical cancer, there's no reliable early detection test for ovarian cancer. And whereas women's lives can be saved through increased public awareness of ovarian cancer and its risk factors,
signs, and symptoms. And whereas our most recent data, the total number of cases of ovarian cancer in Pose County, New Jersey is 167 women and the mortality rate is 90 women between the years 2017 through 2021, the most recent
data available. And whereas this month, the county of Payic joins all those who are battling ovarian cancer, those who've lost their lives to the disease, their loved ones, and our state's many dedicated healthcare workers in spreading awareness, committing to public education, and embracing hope for
better diagnosis, treatments, and a cure. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that we hereby proclaim September as ovarian cancer awareness month in the county of Payic, New Jersey. And be it further proclaimed that this board encourages everyone to observe ovarian car cancer awareness month and support
the cause that so deeply impacts families in every community across our county and our nation. Signed by all of us, you know, uh, thank you, Commissioner Barl. I'm actually going to ask you to stay back down and Commissioner D'vor, we have our second scholarship winner.
So Janice, if you could come back up and thank you. Circling back to New Jersey Narrow Scholarship. Jaquia, would you like to come up here? Jquasia Prior, our second recipient of the scholarship.
So while raising a family, Jaquasia is also employed at the behavior as a behavior technician and she's pursuing a degree in a bachelor of science in psychology with a concentration in applied behavioral analysis and she's
expected to graduate in 2027. All this is helping children who are on the autism spectrum. And her vision is to open a behavioral therapy center where she can help the children and their families. She won the $3,000
scholarship which is also renewable next year. So you can actually be eligible for $6,000. So congratulations. We wish you the best on your future endeavors. Thank you. Like to say a few words? Um, I was not
prepared, but I'm truly grateful to be here and honored. I have to come after those great speeches. But, um, I feel good today for being in the room with a lot of people that have made such a huge difference in everyday life. And I like
to say that it's not easy deciding to go back to school and deciding what career you would like to purs pursue. But this career has found me and I'm truly grateful for that and it gives me p purpose. So I'd like to thank Clarissa
and I'd like to thank you and I'd like to thank Maria and um the commissioners as well and everyone at New Jersey Narrow the founders for having me. Thank you. [Applause]
I think um the commissioners also have a certain Thank you. Congratulations. She did. They got good back and director. That's all I have for this evening. Go Yankees.
Thank you. Um, no communications. Oh, I'm sorry. Um, Commissioner Bartley, you want the uh have a report? Yes. Thank you, director. In a few hours,
that again. Thank you, director. In a few hours, the political party that controls the White House, the US Senate, and the House of Representatives will shut down the federal government. A lot of debates in Washington can seep far away and abstract. But everyone needs to understand how this shutdown will cause
real and immediate hardships here in New Jersey. Active duty military families as close by as Pikatini Arsenal, including some of our own constituents, will stop getting paid. Federal workers at our Great Falls National Historical Park and the federal building here in Patterson
will be furoughed or even fired as the administration has threatened. Furls at the TSA and customs will cause travel delays at our region's airports. Pay County veterans who've been waiting months for an appointment at the VA might have those appointments canled or delayed. Federally funded medical
research, what's left of it, at the universities and medical schools in our area could be stalled, affecting not only employees but also patients. A government shutdown would cause a direct reduction in the nation's GDP, about onetenth of 1% per week, estimates
Ernston Young, potentially costing our economy billions at a time when so many families are struggling just to afford their basic needs. And for what? The path to keeping the government open is also about affordability. Congressional Democrats
are simply asking to keep two current policies. Continuing financial support for families who purchase health insurance on the Affordable Care Act exchanges and continuing current funding levels of Medicaid by delaying the Medicaid cuts in the Republicans big beautiful bill. Here's what's at stake
and why Democrats are fighting for the American people. Costs for 22 million Americans are set to skyrocket by an average of 75% when Republicans refuse extended health premium tax credits. The average family of four here in P County that buys coverage on the exchange will
see their costs go up by more than $1,200 per month. This is in addition to the 15 million Americans who are going to lose health care thanks to the Republicans billionaire's first budget bill, including as many as 380,000 people in New Jersey. In P County, this
is going to the Medicaid cuts are going to reduce the number of eligible residents while increasing the administrative burden on intake and case management staff, resulting in longer processing times and higher case loads. And it'll shift millions of dollars in
additional costs onto county taxpayers. Except the partisan Republicans in Washington, nobody wants these cuts. The vast majority of Americans, including more than half of Republicans, and almost all the rest of us, oppose the Medicaid and ACA cuts. Our
representatives are right to stand up against those plans. What's wrong is those Washington lawmakers who think holding a gun to the head of the American economy is the way to score political points or distract from all the other outrages of this administration. House Speaker Mike Johnson sent everyone home last week
with no plan to return before tonight's deadline. It's time for cooler heads to prevail because the cost of the shutdown will hit all of us and none more than our neediest neighbors. Thank you, director. Thank you. Um I'll take a motion to open the public
portion. So moved. Second. Motion made by D'Vor, second by Cruz. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'vor. Yes. James, I'm sorry. Deputy Director Lazera, yes.
Director Laapour, yes. Anyone with the public wishing to be heard, please step forward, state your name and address, and remember, you have three minutes. Should turn the podium around. Um, hi, my name is Michael Gloman. I live at 89 Hemlock Road, Pmpton Lakes,
New Jersey. I will make this very quick. Um, I wanted to thank all of you for honoring Lahi tonight. um very welld deserved and she's done yman service for the county council's office as many of you know um I was a longtime employee of
the county council's office and worked here for many years during 12 of those years both uh Pat Laapour and Terry Duffy were commissioners freeholders and I'm not going to be here at the end of the year so I wanted to take this opportunity to thank them publicly for
the support that they showed to me over the course of my lady career and to wish them both very well in retirement. So, thank you. Mr. Michael, good luck. Harry's not here, but perhaps you could pass that on to him. So, thank you uh
for that opportunity and for the opportunity to be here tonight to see a lot of Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else from the public wishing to be heard? Seeing no one at the podium, I move to close the public portion. Motion made by Cruz to close. Second by
D'vor. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett, yes. Cruz, yes. Seor, yes. Deputy Director Lazar, yes. Director Laapour, yes. Consent agenda. Um, county council has told me there's no late starters. No
need for executive session. So, is any commissioner want to vote separately on any one on the consent? Okay. Um, I'll take a motion or L1 to L60. So moved. Motion made by D'vor. Second by
Bartlett. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'vor. Yes. Deputy Director Lazar. Yes. Director Leapour. Yes. Um under new business guarantee ordinance 2025-07.
Okay. Uh, director, if I could before the the board votes. Um, last year uh the legislature changed the law um now allowing um boards of boards of education to um borrow money directly through county improvement authorities.
Uh the Little Falls uh board of education was the first school board to make an application to our improvement authority. Um this guarantee ordinance is uh for uh approximately $45 million to fund various school related improvements. Um, as far as the
protections for the county, it's it's no effect on our net debt. Um, it it won't affect our borrowing capacity and uh it's a very safe transaction as the the little for board of ed is a taxing authority like we are. Um, so I think we're going to start seeing more more of
these types of applications where uh school districts are going to take advantage of their ability to now borrow through our improvement authority. And I think it's a nice tool that um this board can give to investment in improving our school's facilities. Okay. Um
all right. To the record. I'll read the executive. Uh county ordinance um uh uh guaranteed ordinance 2025-07 an ordinance of the county of Payic, New Jersey authorizing the guarantee of the
payment of the principal and the interest on not to exceed 44,898,000 aggregate principal amount of the county guaranteed lease revenue bonds. Little Falls Board of Education project series
2025 issued by the count uh by the Pay County Improvement Authority. Okay. Can I'll take a motion to approve guarantee ordinance 2025-07 on first reading. So moved. Second. Motion made by Bartlet, second by Cruz.
Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'vor. Yes. Deputy Director Lazera. Yes. Director Leapour. Yes. Need a motion on the personnel agenda. I'll make the motion. Second. Motion made by Cruz, second by Bartlett.
Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'vor. Yes. Deputy Director Lazar. Yes. Director Leapour. Yes. Need a motion on the bills. Move the bills. Second. Motion made by Cruz, second by Bartlett. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett.
Cruz. Yes. Zor. Yes. Deputy Director Lazar. Yes. Director Leapour. Yes. Um, I'll take a motion to adjurnn. So moved. Second. Motion made by D'vor, second by Cruz. Roll call. County Commissioners Bartlett. Yes. Cruz. Yes. D'vor. Yes. Deputy Director
Lazera. Yes. Director Leapour. Yes. Petito, everyone. Thank you.