Recording in progress. >> This meeting is hereby called to order. The notice requirement provided for the open public meeting law has been satisfied. the notice was properly given. Said notice having been transmitted to the Courier News on December 10th, 2025,
as well as posting on the bulletin board in the city clerk's office. At this time, I'd ask that we all rise for the salute to the flag, which will be led by the Planefield Fire Department color guard and remain standing for the invocation, which will be led by
Reverend Eric Wallace, the senior pastor at Mount Olive Baptist Church. 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. Let us pray. Holy and wise God, we pause in gratitude for the city of Planefield, its history, its neighborhoods, its families, and its future.
Thank you for the breath that is in this place, for the strength that has carried this city throughout hard seasons, and for the hope that still rises in the hearts of the people.
Today, we pray a special blessing over this reorganization event. Let it be more than a ceremony. Let it be a turning point marked by integrity, clarity, and courage. order our steps,
align our decisions with what is right, and make service the highest aim in every office and every assignment. Heavenly Father, we lift up Mayor Map. We ask that you would grant wisdom that
is steady, grant vision that is just, and provide leadership that listens. Surround the mayor with counselors who speak truth, partners who do the work with humility and a spirit that refuses
confusion or compromise. Strengthen the hands of leadership to pursue what benefits the whole community, especially those who often get overlooked. We also ask the blessing upon first lady
map. Cover her, Father God, with peace and strength. Grant grace for the demands that come with public life. Allow her presence and allow her influence to be used for good, encouraging unity and uplifting families
and helping to heal the places where there's been hurt. And God, we pray for every council member, every department head, every employee, every volunteer, every first responder, every educator, every small business owner, and every
resident. Help Planefield move forward together across differences beyond division, past old grievances. Replace bitterness with cooperation. Replace apathy with responsibility. Replace fear with faith and action.
Father, bless the young people of Planefield. Protect them. Guide them. Give them mentors who model what it looks like to live with purpose. And Father God, bless our elders. Keep them safe and honored. Remember them that
they may be cared for. Bless our streets with safety, our homes with stability, our schools with support, and our economy with opportunity that is fair and accessible. Father, today let justice roll through
the city, not as a slogan, Father God, but as a way of life. Let truth be spoken in love. Let compassion be present in policy. Let unity be stronger than ego and let this
new season be marked with power and with the opportunity for all. We pray God we declare peace over planefield. We declare protection over every neighborhood. We declare renewal over
wearied hearts. And we ask that everything be done in the new season will be done ultimately to produce a city where people can live, work, worship, and thrive. We ask this in the
name of the one who is peace, his name that equals mercy, and his name that equals righteousness. We pray. Let everyone say, "Amen." >> Amen. >> You may be seated. So, in um
15 years of uh doing these reorganization meetings, I haven't had this opportunity to say this, but I will now because I don't know what'll happen again. And that is, "Hi, Mom. Okay. The board of county canvasers of
Union County does hereby determined that an election held in said county on the 4th day of November in no in the year 2025. Terry Briggs Jones was duly elected councilwoman fourth ward for a 4-year term in the city of Planefield. Would Terry Briggs Jones please step
forward to take the oath of office as councilwoman for the fourth board? Come on. Come on. left hand on the Bible. Raise your right hand. When I say I, state your name and repeat after me. I state your name. I, Terry Briggs Jones,
>> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> and partially >> and partially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of the office required by me >> of of the office required by me >> as member of the Planefield City Council
>> as member of the Planefield City Council >> representing the fourth ward >> representing the fourth ward >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. I do further solemnly swear >> I do further solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution
>> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith >> and that I will bear true faith >> and allegiance to the same >> and allegiance to the same >> and to the governments established >> and to the governments established >> in the United States >> and the United States
>> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations council. Yes. >> Okay. First of all, happy new year to everybody. >> Happy new year.
>> All right. Thank you, Pastor Wallace, for that uh that that prayer. I was about to get the Holy Ghost up in here. >> Yay. Good afternoon, Planefield. First and foremost, I give honor to God
and thanks to my Lord and Savior for keeping me, protecting me, guarding me, guarding my mind, guiding my footsteps every single day. Without faith, none of this is possible.
>> I want to thank my husband, my sons, my mom, my sister and brother, my entire family, and my friends. Thank you for standing with me, praying for me, and supporting me through every challenge
and every victory. Your love and encouragement kept me going when the work felt heavy. Most importantly, I want to thank my constituents, the people of Planefield.
You've trusted me with your voices and your vote, and I do not take that responsibility lightly. I want to give a special shout out to my campaign manager. She always answers the call when needed.
The election may be over, but I'm still calling on her. I'm still calling her. Even when she says no, she simply researches it and figures it out and gets it done. That kind of
dedication deserves recognition. Thank you to my voters, volunteers, and supporters. Thank you to everyone who knocked on doors, made phone calls, donated, showed up, and spread the word.
I also want to thank those who did not vote for me. I see you. I respect you and I acknowledge the sacrifice you still make for the city. Whether it was for your time, your resources, or your votes, your voice, it all matters. I
extend my gratitude to the current administration, our city workers at every level and es at every level and a special thank you to the city clerk's office for
your professionalism, dedication, and commitment to this process. As I reflect on my first four years, I acknowledge that my term was a learning curve and at times very
challenging. Leadership is not about perfection. It's about growth, accountability, and service. Those years strengthened me, shaped me, and prepared me for what's ahead. My
leadership is rooted in transparency and trust. As we move forward, we must continue to work together and build together. No one person can do this alone. Progress happens
when we stand shouldertosh shoulder. We are not divided by wards or streets. We are one planefield. While I represent the fourth ward, I work for all wards. Every neighborhood matters. Every voice matters and every
resident deserves to feel safe, heard, and valued. Our responsibility is to keep our city clean, protected, and safeguarded. That means taking a stand, owning our role,
and doing the work together. The future of Planefield depends on all of us showing up because at the end of the day, you the people are the most important part of this city. I am honored to serve you,
committed to this work, and ready to continue to move Planefield forward. Thank you. God bless you. God bless Planefield. And I I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge Planefield Board of Education and the
band because they supported me when I was doing my gun violence walk all four years and they never said no. So, thank you. God bless you. God bless Planefield. Congratulations, Mayor Matt. You're welld deserved. You ran a good
race. Congratulations. The board of county canvasers of Union County does hereby determine that at an election held in the said county on the fourth day of November in the year 2025. Adrienne O Map was duly elected mayor for a four-year term in the city of
Planefield. We will have remarks from Assemblywoman Linda Carter from the 22nd Legislative District, also known as Wonder Woman, who will be introducing Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, who will be
administering the oath of office for Adrienne OMAP as mayor. Assemblywoman Carter. >> Thank you, Clerk. Good afternoon, Planefield. >> Afternoon. >> Wow. Happy New Year. Wow. It truly is a
pleasure to be here this afternoon. I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate Mayor Map on your historic election and all and congratulate you and I know that you're going to do a fantastic job. I also want to take an
opportunity to congratulate Councilwoman Terry Briggs Jones on your reelection here today because the two of you, your confidence in our leaders as a leader here in our city and with our city voting for you, we know that they have
your the confidence in you that you are truly going to make sure that Planefield continues to move in the right direction and continue to move forward as we collaborate together. But I also want to take an opportunity to congratulate all of this council as they start their
reorganization today and they get together and they will be working collaboratively, collectively and working together for productivity and prosperity for the citizens of the city of Planefield. And I have true confidence and as you can see from the
room being filled today, so does the city of Planefield. I have the pleasure this evening uh on behalf of myself and all of my colleagues in the legislature because you know what we have a good time and understanding who I'm going to be
introducing. She has set the way. Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman is truly a trailblazer. An individual that is no stranger to those here in the city of Planefield. She has started her career, her path to
service, you know, in the general assembly and now in the US United States Congress where she has been a tireless advocate for justice, equity, and the people of New Jersey. She hasn't just stood up for those in New Jersey, but I
want to take a moment to say thank you for what you have done for the city of Planefield. You continue to be there for us. you continue to make sure you're advocating for all of our needs that we have on behalf we and we are so grateful
as a community. I am pleased to present Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman with these flowers as a small token of appreciation for your extraordinary service and dedication. Oh, and they just happen to see be pink roses. Hm. I wonder why. You know, as my
sister of a member of Alpha Cap Alpha sorority, we understand exactly what the mission should be and the colors should be. So now you personally made sure that I wanted to keep this short, but your
unwavering commitment to our community has left a lasting impression on so many of us here. Not only have you set the path for us and have been a trailblazer, but you have been a mentor and a
confidant for so many of us that are here in this room here today. So I want to take a opportunity to also say on behalf of Assemblyman Jim Kennedy who's here in with us today, my one of my
running mates, thank you for all of the support that you have given us and thank you also to the city of Planefield for reelecting us back for another term um when we get sworn in in January. So thank you. So now we're really going to get to really
why you're here. So on behalf you will be administering the oath of office to Adrien Omap current mayor for the last three years going for his historic fourth term and all. So please everyone
give a rounding applause. I think you all shall also stand for our Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. I want to say to you all first of all, thank you for having supported me in the years I've had the opportunity to
represent you. You make me very proud and I feel very honored. I want to wish you all a very happy, healthy, and prosperous new year. I want us to move forward, I hope, in support of our democracy and on behalf of all the folks
that need us and need government to work for them. It's my honor to be here today to um swear in my friend, my colleague, and uh my strong supporter Adrienne as
mayor. Hold the Bible. >> We have three generations up here. >> That's right. >> Ready, Mayor? >> I repeat your name. I, Adrien Omat, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear
>> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> impartially and justly >> impartially and justly >> perform all the duties of the office >> perform all the duties of the office >> required by me >> required by me >> as mayor of the city of Planefield
>> as mayor of the city of Planefield >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. I do further solemnly swear >> I do further solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States
>> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> and that I will bear true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments established
>> and to the governments established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people. >> under the authority of the people. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations, mayor. >> Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank
you. CONGRATULATIONS. FIRST, let me wish all of you and your families a very happy, healthy, and prosperous
new year. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my wife Amelia, our two daughters Shimona and Aia, my son-in-law Dennis, and my grandkids Maui and Yira,
who fill our hearts with so much joy. I love you and I appreciate you. To Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, Thank you for taking the time to swear me in today. Thank you for representing
Planefield and the 12th Congressional District with honor and distinction over the past 10 years. We are proud of you and we are grateful for the impactful work you have done on our behalf in
Washington. At this time, I will pause my remarks and ask you to step forward as we present you with the key to the city. >> Congresswoman, this is presented to you
because you have been a servant of the people. You have represented the state of New Jersey, the 12th congressional district, the city of playing field, and all of the people of the United States with honor and distinction. And I can't
think of a person more deserving of this recognition than you. And so, it is with a with great honor and pleasure that we present you with the key to the city of the Green City. SUCH an honor. Thank you.
And before I continue with my remarks, I want to take this opportunity to recognize some of the elected officials that are present with us here today. We have Union County Commissioners Stan Non and
Rebecca Williams. We have Somerset County Commissioner Director Chanel Robinson. We have Tina Jallow Surate. And you've already heard from our own
Wonder Woman, Linda Carter. WE WANT to recognize her count to part in the 22nd Legislative District, Jim Kennedy. We also want to recognize a member of the General Assembly,
Verina Reynolds Jackson. And to all of the elected members of the Planefield Board of Education and any other elected official here this evening, we welcome you. We appreciate you. And may God continue to bless you
and lead you as you continue to serve the communities that you represent. I have been a public servant since entering the political arena as a councilman in 1998
and I subsequently served one term as a county commissioner then known as a freeholder from 2005 to 2007. I later returned to Planefield to the city council in 2009
and served for five years until I resigned after being elected mayor effective January 1st of 2014. I was reelected in 2017 and again in 2021
to a historic third term. Just this past year, 2025, I was reelected to a fourth consecutive term as mayor of the city. I would like to thank the voters of
Planefield for the great confidence you have placed in me to continue serving as your mayor. I do not take that lightly. One doesn't get elected mayor alone or
by oneself. It takes the entire village and a core team of supporters who have subscribed to the vision as articulated. But getting elected is one thing.
Governing is another. If one is to govern successfully, one must surround oneself with good people. Good people who formed the nucleus of a
leadership team that knows what needs to be done and how to get it done. A team that is willing to challenge its leader and not
be afraid to be a voice of reason speaking truth to its leader. Governing requires the courage to make tough decisions even when a few voices
are raised in opposition. It requires a partnership with the governing body where roadblocks are shattered and a vision of transformation is embraced
in order to get things done and to keep moving forward. I have been fortunate to have a leadership team that is highly qualified and possesses the knowledge and skills
necessary for success. For most of the past 12 years, I have also had the benefit of working with a council that bought into the administration's
intentional and progressive vision. I am grateful for the volunteers willing to serve on our boards and commissions who like me recognize the importance of jettisoning
outdated policies and removing barriers to economic development and transformation. We have been able to extend a hand of friendship to political leaders across the state and work with them for the
mutual benefit of the constituents we serve. I am proud to lead over 600 dedicated employees who deliver services to our residents
every day supported by our public safety departments, police and fire who put their lives on the line to protect and serve. Hence, it goes without saying that
public safety means trust. In Planefield, the Queen City, a proud and diverse community built by families from all over the world,
embraces everyone and protects every resident equally, regardless of country of origin or immigration status. That is why we respect and follow the New Jersey Attorney General's Immigrant Trust
directive, which limits the types of voluntary assistance New Jersey law enforcement may provide to federal civil immigration authorities, including ICE,
and draws a clear distinction between local policing and federal federal civil immigration enforcement. In other words, Planefield law enforcement is here to do local policing
and will not will not participate in federal civil immigration enforcement operations. except as required by law. That clarity matters because when
residents feel safe calling for help, reporting a crime, or cooperating as a witness, our entire city is safer. It is my pleasure to report that the
state of the city is strong and crime continues to decline. making Planefield safer year overyear and helping residents and visitors feel more secure.
For the second consecutive year, we have had zero homicides. ZERO. That reflects proactive measures. community policing, strong partnerships,
investing in technology that aids our officers in their work, and actively recruiting officers from the community. People who know our neighborhoods, share our values, and understand what it means
to serve right here at home. Blighted spaces have been transformed into wholesome oases for recreational activities and enjoyment by people of all ages,
including our youth, adults, and our seniors who are active participants in everything we do. From our parks and playgrounds to our community programs and gathering spaces,
economic development has reached an unprecedented $2 billion through mixeduse investments that includes market rate workforce housing and affordable housing with 1,000
affordable housing units IN THE PIPELINE. AND WITH THE support of the governing body, property owners can now build accessory dwelling units known as ADUs to further
address the housing shortage. Additionally, through partnerships with developers, we have provided opportunities to create generational wealth through the sale of single and two family homes
at below market value. We have consistently received improved bond ratings and have maintained the highest rating for bond anticipation notes. Although New Jersey
is said to have the highest property taxes in the nation, taxes in Planefield have been remarkably stable for the past EIGHT YEARS.
WITH AN AVERAGE increase of only 1.5% and several years without no tax increases, our property owners have benefited from proven stable leadership that has earned
praise and admiration of people around the state. Note this. The average home value in the city of Planefield when I took office in 2013 in at the end
of 2013, beginning of 2014, the average home value was $236,400. that has ballooned to $519,000 in 2025. That's money people have in the bank.
That's equity that can be used to send your kids and grandkids off to college and to do the things that you might want to do. All in all, our administration has
delivered for playing field and our residents are enjoying a very decent standard of living with significant equity in their homes. I reiterate that thanks to our
residents, our administrative staff, our council, and our boards and commissions, all working collaboratively to fulfill a shared vision. The state of our city is
strong. And before I close, I want to congratulate Councelor Terry Briggs Jones. Our administration looks forward to continuing to work with Councelor Briggs Jones. So, thank you and happy, healthy,
and blessed new year to each and every one of you. also uh would like to acknowledge the deputy mayor from the township of Neptune, Derell Straoud is also IN
forget you. So, congratulations to uh Councilwoman Terry Brick Jones. Congratulations, Mayor M. Thank you to Reverend Wallace. Thank you, Assemblywoman Carter, thank you our beloved Congresswoman. And at this point, this concludes the ceremonial uh
portion of the agenda. And we'll ask for a fivem minute recess. Need a motion. >> So moved. Second. >> All in favor? I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. We're going to switch right
here. Right here. That's right. the round forget you got your own shot. >> I'm coming back to the front. I have no idea.
>> No, thank you. Okay, we're back in session. >> Reporting in progress. >> We're now back in session. I will call the role for the 2026 Planefield City Council. Council members Briggs Jones, >> present. >> Councilwoman Cherry,
>> present. >> Councilman Graham, >> present. >> Councilman Hakaday, >> present. >> Councilman McCrae, >> present. >> Councilwoman Cessums, >> present. >> And Councilman Wyatt, >> present.
>> The 2026 Planefield City Council is now officially in session. At this point, we go to the election of the 2026 city council president. >> Make a nomination to nominate Julian Cherry as council president.
>> The floor is now open for nominations for 2026 U. Council President, there's been a nomination for Trillian Cherry. Are there any other nominations? >> You that tired?
Okay. At this point, I have a motion to close nominations. >> Second. >> I have a roll call on that nomination for Councilwoman Cherry to Service 2026 City Council President. Council members Briggs Jones. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Cherry.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Graham. Yes. Councilman Hakaday. >> Yes. >> Council McCrae. >> Yes. >> Councilwoman Cesums. >> Yes. >> And Councilman Wyatt. >> Yes.
>> That is unanimous. I now declare Councilwoman Drillin and Cherry as the 2026 City Council President. Swearing in Councilwoman Cherry will be Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter. Oh yeah,
>> they're back here very clearly. >> Take this oath of office. >> Please state after me. I state your name. I, Julian Cherry, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> impartially >> and partially
>> and justly perform >> and justly perform >> all the duties of the office >> all the duties of the office >> required by me >> required by me >> as city council president >> as city council president >> of the city of Planefield City Council >> of the city of Planefield City Council >> according to the best of my ability
>> accord according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. I do further solemnly swear >> I do further solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey
>> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and that I will bear true faith >> and I will bear true faith >> and allegiance to the same >> and the allegiance to the same >> and to the governments established >> and to the governments established >> in the United States >> and to the United States >> and in this state >> and in to this states
>> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> and in the authority of the people in the in the in the authority of the people. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> CONGRATULATIONS. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Hold on.
>> Yeah. Well, folks, it's been fun. My job here is done. Let's give it up again to the 2026 city council president. Good afternoon everyone. Good afternoon >> to the dignitaries, elected officials,
the mayor, the administration, the city council, the residents of Planefield. First and foremost, I want to thank God for his guidance, his grace, his blessings. Without him, none of this
would be possible. Second, I want to thank my Jamars. Those are my backbones. Being an elected official for those that know it, it's hard. Your families get the last of you
and my family always is there. I want to thank Steve Hakaday, our outgoing council president for his leadership, his service, his dedication to the city of playing field. We appreciate the time, the commitment, and
the responsibility that you carried in this role. And we thank you for your continued service to the community. Please thank him everyone. I am deeply honored and truly grateful for the trust that you placed in me today. I want to first thank by thanking
all of my council colleagues for your confidence and your collaboration. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the mayor. You've done an amazing job transforming this city and again it's not without the help of the council. To the administration,
we will work together. The assembly woman, thank you. And to my families and to my supporters that have stood by me every step of the way. And most importantly, thank you to the residents that I serve. Your voices, your concerns, and your hopes are the
reason why I sit here today. Planefield is not just where I serve. It is a place where I chose my family. We chose Planefield. I picked Planefield because I believe in this city, in its people, in its
potential. I love this city. I love this diversity, its resilience, and its deep sense of community. That's the love that drives my commitment to serve with intention and care. Serving as your city council president
is not a title for me. And I want to say that again. Serving as your city council president is not about a title. It's about responsibility. It is about listening, leading with integrity, and ensuring that government works for the people in a way that is
fair, accessible, and respectful. As far as my priorities, I want to make sure we're very clear. First, transparency. Our residents deserve open communication, clear decision-m, and confidence that their government is
acting in their best interests. Transparency builds trust, and trust is the foundation of effective leadership. Second, affordability. Our families are feeling the pressure of rising costs and local government must
be mindful, responsible, and innovative on how we manage our resources. I am committed to ensuring that your tax dollars are used wisely, efficiently, and with accountability. Always focus on delivering the value and essential
services to our community. And third, civility. We may not always agree and that's okay. But we must always treat each other with respect. Our council meetings are a place where we conduct the people's
business. This is not a stage. This is where we conduct the people's business. Civility strengthens democracy. It allows us meaning for meaningful dialogue, find common ground, and move forward together for the greater good of our our community.
I implore our Planefield constituents to please reach out to your council representatives. And yes, you have three. You're going to hear me say this throughout the year. You have three representatives in each ward. Engage them in meaningful dialogue. Your
input matters. Your voice matters. A strong city is built when residents and their elected officials work together and openly and respectfully. This year under my leadership, you're going to hear and you're going to see initiatives that clearly say, "The city
council presents." And under that banner, it will be simple a powerful message. We are stronger together. Dr. Cessums, I heard you when we cut the ribbon on Rushmore. We are stronger together. We're stronger when we collaborate. Stronger when we listen,
stronger when we lead with respect and a shared sense of purpose. I am committed to working collaboratively with the council, the administration, the mayor, and every resident of this city to move our community forward with purpose and
unity. Together, we can build a government that listens, responds, and leads with compassion and accountability. Thank you again for this amazing honor and I look forward to working ahead to serving all of the residents of Planefield with dedication, integrity,
and respect. So my first order of business is to identify a vice president. Before I identify a vice president, I want to first acknowledge Councilwoman Dr. Darcela Cessums. She has brought civility to this seat. She has brought
professionalism. >> Yes. >> She has She's an amazing sister. >> Yes. >> And she reads everything like I do. Right. >> So, thank you for sitting in the wing when council president wasn't available.
We appreciate you. The floor is now open for nominations for council vice presidents. Are there any nominations? >> Yeah. Nominate Steve Hakaday for city council vice president. >> Are
there any other nominations? >> May I have a second? >> Second. >> Mr. Clerk, may I please have a roll call on the nominations for council person to serve as the c for council person um Steve Hakaday to serve as council president for 2026.
>> Excuse me, council vice president for 2026. >> It's a roll call for Councilman Hakaday to serve as vice president for 2026. Council members Briggs Jones, >> yes. >> Cherry, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. >> Haday,
>> yes. McCrae, >> yes. >> Cessums, >> yes. >> Councilman Watt, >> yes. >> That is unanimous. >> I now declare Councilwoman Hakaday as
the 2026 vice president. Mr. Clerk, will you please administer the vote for the council vice president? Let's see. >> Pick pick someone. Name anyone. Um, >> uh, let me see. How about Commissioner
Neon? >> Yeah, Commissioner Neon might get some, uh, black rice and peak leaves out of this. left hand on the mic. Raise your right hand. >> When I say I, state your name and repeat after me. I state your name. I, Steve
Hockadc, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will faithfully >> that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly perform >> and justly perform >> all of the duties >> all of the duties >> of the office required by me >> of the office required by me
>> as city council vice president >> as city council vice president >> of the city of Planefield >> of the city of Planefield >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. I do further solemnly swear >> I do further solemnly swear
>> that I will support the Constitution >> that I will support the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> and that I will bear >> and that I will bear >> true faith >> true faith >> and allegiance to the same >> and allegiance to the same
>> and to the governments established >> and to the governments established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations, Vice President.
>> Council Vice President, do you have any remarks? All right. All right. Our council vice president doesn't have any remarks. A total of 30 minutes has been allocated for public comments limited to resolutions being considered this evening. Each speaker will be given three minutes. If there's any member of
the public that'd like to call in for the public comments, please dial 6465588656. Enter the meeting ID. 938-36439534. Dial star9 to raise your hand and lower your hand. This information can be found on the city website as well as your YouTube channel.
The floor is now open. Is anybody online? Seeing no. May I have a motion to close public comments? >> Second. Now we move to resolutions and motions. Are there any questions for resolutions
R001-26 through R00? >> We have a presentation. >> You have a presentation? >> Yeah. >> Oh, yes. Mayor, >> there's a presentation for the 100th
birthday of a resident. There's a proclamation. The business administrator will read the proclamation. I will then present the proclamation to the family. With your permission, we'll take some photos and then I'll invite the council members to join us.
>> Sure, Mayor. >> Okay. We are honor honoring and celebrating the 100th birthday of Bernice Davis Jones. Whereas Miss Bernice Elizabeth Jones was born on January 3rd, 1926 in Brooklyn, New York and returned to New Jersey as an infant,
where she was adopted at the age of six by George and Elizabeth Williams and raised as their only child in segregated South Jersey, completing her elementary education in Franklinville and Clayton, New Jersey. And whereas Bernice attended
the historic Borderton School from 1941 to 1945, a distinguished African-American boarding school widely widely known as a Tuskegee of the North, which provided rigorous academic and vocational education to black students during the era of segregation. And she
has long regarded her time there as one of the highlights of her life. And whereas trained in beauty culture yet confronted with limited employment opportunities due to segregation, Bernice initially worked in factories in Philadelphia before relocating to
Planefield, New Jersey in 1947, where she continued to build her life and her legacy. And whereas in early adulthood she married veteran John Davis senior and demonstrated extraordinary strength and devotion as she raised their family
while caring while caring for her husband who lived with undiagnosed cickle cell anemia and endured extended hospitalizations until his passing in 1968. And whereas Bernice is the proud mother of two sons John Davis Jr. and Jeffrey
Davis. And in December 1975, she remarried Friselle Jones, becoming a devoted stepmother to Friselle III, Brenda, and Brian, forming a blended family grounded in love and resilience that remained united until his passing
in July of 2000. And whereas Miss Jones secured long-term employment with the New Jersey Bell Telephone Company, now Verizon, in or about 1961, where she worked with dedication and pride for approximately 22 years until her retirement, and even
thereafter continued working as a temporary receptionist and operator well into her 80s, admired for her professionalism, warmth, and reliability. And whereas Cathedral International has long served as Miss Joan's spiritual
home where she's been a faithful member, a respected mother in the church, and a source of wisdom and encouragement within the African-American faith community in Planefield and beyond. And whereas Miss Bernice Elizabeth Jones celebrates the remarkable milestone of
her 100th birthday, she is honored as the beloved matriarch of a large and loving family that includes her children, stepchildren, approximately 11 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and an extended church family. And as a living
testament to preservation to pres preservant It doesn't say preservation. >> Perseverance. Thank you. Uh faith, service, and grace. And whereas reflecting on her centennial
life, Mrs. Jones humbly states, "I'm thankful. I really can't describe all the feelings I have at being 100. Like everybody else, I wanted to live a long life, and so here I am living to 100." words that embody gratitude, humility,
and a life well-lived. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that I, Adrienne Matt, mayor of the city of Planefield, do hereby honor and recognize this monumental milestone with Miss Bernice Elizabeth Jones and ask all in attendance to join me in celebrating
this auspicious occasion ex and extend our warmest wishes for a joyous 100th birthday celebration accompanied by abundant blessings, good health, and continued prosperity in the years ahead. Mayor Adrien Omap.
It is with great prevention that we present you with this proclamation on the eve of your 100th birthday. We wish you continued good health >> and may God continue to bless you each
and every day. the entire city of Plenty, the governance body, my administration, we are all honored to be in your presence. And so we present you with this proclamation.
>> This is real. And if if there's we'll take some photos, but if there's anything you want to say, we're going to pull that microphone so that you can say anything you want to say. I am just I am just so grateful. I'm so grateful to to be among the living
>> and that God has spared me so long. And uh I can't give you any formula what to do other than well two things I can tell you not to do is to drink and
smoke cigarettes. Other than that, just just live your life and and put God in your life. >> And uh God bless all of you. I thank you. I thank you so much for this honor.
I I I'm just speechless. >> You are welcome. You said it all. And there are a lot of people in this room. That part about smoking and drinking Let's look at the camera.
>> Ready? Three, two, one. >> Come down. >> Mayor, join us >> and then the council can come and join us. Guys, this is
Three, two, one. All of you. >> Happy New Year. Happy new year. >> Happy new year. >> All right. Happy new year. All right. >> 100. Wow. That's amazing.
>> All right. So, may I have a motion to close public comments? >> All in favor? >> I. >> All right. So, now we move on to resolutions and motions. Um, are there any questions in on
resolutions R001-26 through R004-26? May I have a Are there any questions? May I have a motion to approve resolutions R001-26 through R004-26?
So move seconded. >> Mr. Clerk, can I please have a roll call? Council member, >> yes. >> Councilman Graham, >> yes. >> Council McCrae, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Cess,
>> yes. >> Councilman Wyatt, >> yes. >> Vice President Hakaday, >> yes. >> And Council President Cherry, >> yes. >> That's unanimous. Those items have been approved. Are there any questions for resolutions R005-26
through R038-26? Seeing none, may I have a motion to approve resolutions R005-26 through R 038-26? >> So move. >> Second. >> All right, Mr. Clerk, may I please have a roll call? Council members Briggs
Jones, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. >> McCrae, >> yes. >> Cessums, >> yes. >> Wyatt, >> yes. >> Vice President Hakaday, >> yes. >> Councilman Cherry, >> yes. >> Z has been approved. >> All right, we're moving along. Are there
any questions for resolutions R039-26? Seeing none, may I have a motion to approve resolutions R039? >> Second. >> All right, Mr. Clerk, can I please have a roll call? >> Council members Briggs Jones, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. >> McCrae, >> yes. >> Cessums, >> yes.
>> Wyatt, >> yes. >> Vice President Hakaday, >> yes. >> Council President Cherry, >> yes. >> It's unanimous. All >> right. Questions or resolutions are 039-26. >> We just did that. We just did that. >> Mr. President, we did that one, right?
>> Yes. We're moving 40 and 50. >> Yes. Twice. >> 40. Are there any questions for our resolutions R040-26 through R050-26? >> Motion second. >> Mr. Cler, can I please have a roll call?
>> Council members Briggs Jones, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. >> McCrae, >> yes. >> Cessums, >> yes. >> Wyatt, >> yes. >> Vice President Hakaday, >> yes. Council President Cherry. >> Yes. >> Those item items have been approved. >> Right. Are there any questions for
resolutions R051-26 through R056-26? Seeing none, may I have a motion to approve resolutions for R051-26 through R5626. Second. >> Mr. Clerk, can I please have a roll call?
>> Council members Briggs Jones, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. >> McCrae, >> yes. >> Cessums, >> yes. >> Wyatt, >> yes. Vice President Hawiday. >> Yes. >> Council President Cherry. >> Yes. >> Those items have been approved. >> Now we move on to ordinance on first
reading. One second. Sure. >> Okay. >> Council President, would you like me to explain the first one? >> No, it was it's not on the SC. It's not here. Oh, >> it's not printed. >> Okay. But >> yeah, MC 2026-01.
>> Okay. So we h um since Miss Morris Gil was just appointed CFO and she also serves as the director of finance, we have a need to add a comproller title to our our uh salary ordinance. And so this
ordinance is seeking to add that title comproller. We've always had assistant comproller um in the range of 125 to 175. There will not be a new position. and it will be absorbed by somebody already working. >> Any questions?
>> All right. I'll entertain a motion to adopt this ordinance on for on first reading. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Cler, can I have a roll call, please? >> Uh, yes. I I have a question. Um, you said there's someone that's already in position.
>> Yeah, we're going to elevate somebody to the position of controller. But we can't elevate them until the position exists in the salary ordinance. >> How much of difference in in the pay? >> Uh the difference in pay is $24,000.
Okay. This person is incredibly qualified and has his CMFO. So um it it's it makes sense for this person to serve as I mean I don't want to obviously talk about individual employees so it's kind of hard to have that conversation but person has their
CMFO and they will be able to assist in the day-to-day operations um since Miss Morris Gill will be serving in dual role of CFO and finance director. So, we'll essentially be having two people with the CMFO license, which is incredibly
rare. Um, both working for us. >> Who will the controller be a direct report to? >> To Miss Morris, to the CFO. >> Any other questions? >> So, we had a motion and a second. >> Yes, we did. Uh MC202601
is an ordinance amending the schedule of salaries and wages adopted pursuant to article 14 chapter 11 of the missile code of the city of Planefield, New Jersey, 1971. There's been a motion a second. Council members Briggs Jones, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. >> McCrae, >> yes.
>> Cessums, >> yes. >> Wyatt, >> yes. >> Vice President Haday, >> yes. >> Council President Cherry, >> yes. >> A unanimous ordinance been adopted on first reading. Madame Deputy, will you please read MC 2026-02 by title?
MC 202602 is an ordinance of the city of Planefield in the county of Union granting a tax exemption pursuant to the long-term tax exemption law and the redevelopment area bond financing law with respect to certain property identified on the city's tax map as
block 233 lots 2 611-9 West Front Street uh 605609 West Front Street 718-20 Planefield Avenue and 12115-33 Waynewood Park, Planefield, New Jersey, and authorizing the execution of a
financial agreement with BH611 West Front Street Urban Renewal LLC and authorizing certain other actions in connection. >> All right, I'll entertain a motion to adopt this ordinance on first reading. >> So move.
>> Clerk, may I please have a roll call? >> Council members Brooks Jones, >> yes. >> Graham, >> yes. McCrae, >> yes. >> Cessums, >> yes. >> Wyatt, >> yes. >> Vice President Hakaday, >> yes. >> Council President Cherry, >> yes. >> That's unanimous. This ordinance has
been adopted on first reading. >> Right. Good. So, general public comments. A total of 30 minutes has been allocated for public comments limited to resolutions being considered this evening. Each speaker will be given three minutes. Any member of the public that would like to call in for public
comments, please dial 6465588656. Enter the meeting ID 938-36439534. Dial star 9 to raise and lower your hand. This information can be found on the city website as well as the YouTube channel. The floor is now open. Uh Nancy Pvar, Myrtle Avenue playing
field. Um congratulations to everyone and I especially um want to thank the mayor for his comments about ICE operations. Um I'm here tonight um to speak about that. Evidently, some law enforcement agency did an operation in
Greenberg Park on New Year's Eve morning at 10:45 a.m. My assumption was it was ICE. The men were masked and unidentified. The five vehicles were not identifiable and did not have flashing lights or
sirens. Were the Planefield police notified? I did not see the Planefield police or Union County police cars, so I believe that they did not participate in this operation. What exactly is Planefield's policy as it relates to ICE
operations in the city's jurisdiction? I am aware of other operations that occurred one two blocks away um a couple weeks ago. And what should area residents do if they see such activities going on whether in Greenberg Park or other areas of the city? Should
we call the blameful police or who should we notify? When this happened, area residents could not go through the park and were waved off by a masked person. How do the residents even know if they are legitimate law enforcement
or are imposters or simply morers? Why was access denied to a public part? Um, and was this a violation of the Civil Rights Act in 1964? I was glad that was on the agenda so I could look it up because it was a public park and
residents could not get through the park at that time. The last time any of this area was quote occupied unquote was in 1967 with the National Guard posted on West Front Street in 1969. New Jersey
State Police surrounded Plane High School during the school rebellion. And in 1963, I had to walk through a picket line in order to segregate the schools. But we were not denied access to any of these areas.
Although frightening at all those times, law enforcement was easily identified and the men and people did not wear masks and did not deny access to any of the areas. So I respectfully request that the city please provide the
residents myself and anybody else in the in playing field what are we supposed to do when we see mass men in our neighborhoods. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Um >> good afternoon. >> Please state your name of the city.
>> Uh my name is Gonzalez. I have not been here for very very long time but even though um I have not been here we have been working diligent with all the points that the lady just say but first of all let me congratulate the mayor
mayor may I congratulations and the congratulations are uh the the city of Lenfield Hispanics um Nelson and the taxi companies send you the regards and congratulations and good luck. We look forward to work with
everybody. The thing what the lady mention now is what are you going to say to the people in Planfield? Um congress respect with eyes. The only suggestion that you should do is then to not run
then to just u maintain silent and then get a lawyer to represent you. If you want then it's going to be more difficult then going to be abused. Now, if we have eyes in Planefield, yes, we do.
What we the Hispanics that represent the community and I'm as a co-chair on the human relation commission for the county and the chair of PACA even though we had not been meeting in the city hall because it was not available. But we have been going into the community and
we have been having meetings with the people and we have lawyers that working with the people. So the best advice is don't run and please be very careful because it's also a lot of people saying that they are from ice and they're not
then can abuse and rap and we do not know. So the best the best advice is please try to get the right information. The people that had children try to have documents, a legal document to allow
somebody to take over if you guys pick them up. They need to have a lawyer to represent them. So then to have many names or lawyers and not one or Yes. Because if they didn't want then the
police is going to be after them. Yes. It's not one car. It's six or seven cars from immigration. Yes. we have deal with it but it's not enough. We need more voices to let the people know how then have to deal with
immigration is with here. So the mayor thank you for everything you say. I hear what you say about ICE. I understand the law and I understand what are we going through now. We passing a very hard times and we crossing a very hard street
and we all need to be together and helping the people because many of the the people that taken they are good people hardworking they don't rob nobody they work very hard and the ones that they need to take it they don't so thank
you >> thank you so much for your comment Madame President, this is general comment, right? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, uh, Quan Champlas, Planefield, New Jersey. Um, please forgive me for the shades. I had my eyes dilated, so I can't see, so I'm doing my best. So, I'm
shaded today. I just want to say congratulations, Terry. You ran a really good race. The people spoke and you're here. Also, congratulations to the mayor. You ran a really tough race, but the people spoke again. And um Julian, congratulations. I'm very proud of you
to be the council president. I heard everything you said. It was right and exact and on point, especially the part that anything that we do will be on behalf of the entire council. Not this one, not that one, but a whole council collaboration. And um I don't know where
you all got that pastor, but he sure preached, prayed a word, didn't he? And I hope everybody listened to what he said >> intensely because what he said also was right and exact and are the things that we need to do to be able to move the
city. So congratulations everybody. Darcela, I'm sorry to see you not in that position, but I understand. Steve Gary, congratulations. I'm a little confused, but hey, bro, congratulations. I'm glad that you are where you are cuz you know you know you know Steve Gary was the first election
that I ever contributed to back in the day when I was just getting into politics. So he's always going to be my favorite council person. Congratulations everybody. Have a happy new year. >> Thank you. Anybody else?
>> Name and city. >> Good afternoon. My name is Angela King. I am a resident of the fourth ward. Congratulations to everyone. Steve, don't look so happy. There you go. Congratulations to everyone and I wish
you all a happy new year. Mayor, best of luck on your congressional uh run. Um I just I have two questions. Uh one of them uh the lady um um spoke about
already. Um, what is the nexus between ICE or whoever they are, cuz nobody knows who they are, and the Planefield Police Department? Can people just roll up into your town and pull over your residence and knock their windows out? Cuz I've seen it where they ask no
question, just a bunch of cars, nothing is marked, and they just stop people at the lights and break their windows, kids in the car, and screaming and crying and it's it's just awful. And so who are these people and where are they coming from and you know what do we do
if we see something and who do we call it's it's really really bad. Um and the other thing is the other question I have is who is responsible to come back to this body with a report? A lot of times folks ask questions and they're answered
here. But then those that don't get answered, who's responsible for coming back to this to this body with an answer? And I speak specifically of the cannabis factory where I come from, they call it weed factory over there on uh
Front Street. Um the smell, several residents have addressed it. And I haven't heard because sometimes if I'm not in the room, I'm online. I haven't heard it a response as to who's meeting with these folks and saying, you know, the residents have complaints. What are
you guys doing? We need to get the residents an answer. So, I need to know who's kind of responsible. I'm working with Mr. John Louuise. My other um gripe was about the garbage cans in my neighborhood and I'm working Mr. Louise
with Mr. Louise and residents on that. I was hoping Miss Cherry now your disposition I don't know because we had talked about um having um um town halls because 3 minutes here really doesn't address our concerns and so I'm not I'm
not sure now that you're there if we can still call on you you know I'm learning so you know I need to know um what's happening in those areas. Thank you so much. >> Thank you. Anybody else in the gallery that would like to speak?
Elila, anybody on? >> No one online. >> Okay. Would anybody from the administration like to answer those questions? >> Well, thank you, Council President. I will attempt to address the issue regarding
ICE. And I want to thank Floor Gonzalez for the advice that she provided. I think she was right on point with her advice. I made reference to the situation
involving ICE and what Planefield will or will not do during my state of the city remarks a few minutes ago. Planefield is not alone in this whole ice raid situation.
This is happening all across the state and the nation. It's happening in neighboring towns. I'm sure you all have read reports about ICE raids in South Planefield and in North
Planefield and pretty much almost every city, New Jersey. So, we're not alone. And I believe that we are very familiar with the heavy hand
of the president and what he is attempting to do, the attack on the immigrant community. And it appears that everyone is fair game to him and he's treating this as if
it's a game. But we are very clear in playing field as to where we stand. We are guided by the attorney general's immigrant trust directive. And as president of the New Jersey Urban
Mayor's Association back in late October, we called a meeting with the attorney general and his staff at Kain University where a number of us urban mayors and
our staff were in attendance and we spoke at length about what municipalities should do if ICE were to come into our communities if the National Guard were to come into our
communities. And we have been told over and over again that we ought to be guided by the directives of the attorney general's office and that is precisely what we are doing. Now, there have been
several reports of ICE raids and not every report of an ICE raid is an ICE raid. Um, there are people that have been targeted as a result of different violations of the law and
those folks are pulled over whether in Planefield, North Planefield, South Planefield, East Brunswick, New Brunswick, wherever. and those folks are being pulled over. It's not what is not occurring in terms
of what information has come to us is that there isn't a nice raid where they are going to a location where they believe Latinos or any undocumented person or persons will
assemble and are just waiting for them and rounding up folks. That is not happening. From the reports that I've gotten from our PD, the people that have been stopped, they have been targeted as a result of judicial warrants.
And the exception to the attorney general's immigration trust um directive is that if there is a judicial warrant, there's got to be compliance. But it is very clear from the directives
of the attorney general that playing field or any other law enforcement agency in the state is not and will not cooperate with ICE and any raids that are being carried out by ICE. We also
should have no expectation that the Planefield PD would show up at a scene where ICE is reported to be conducting an operation. There should be no expectation on the part of anyone that our law enforcement officers would put
themselves, inject themselves into a legal operation where federal agents are carrying out an assignment based on a judicial warrant.
I don't think that you have seen mayors from across the state, from across the country showing up at these reported raids. That's not what we do. But what we do is to make sure that people under our charge and in this case
our playingfield PD is guided by the attorney general's directives and we will continue to do that. One of the things that we did um earlier this year is that we had a round table at the
PAPAC where we brought in professionals from the Latino community. We brought in folks from the faith-based community and other leaders in the community, small businesses, and we provided a forum for
people to receive the information that they would need in order to feel somewhat safe and comfortable in terms of the reported raids that are being conducted. And perhaps the time is
now that we should probably the administration have another set such round table where we can provide additional information make professionals available to the community to those who might have questions and who might have a need for
representation. So we stand firm in our position, we the administration, that we will not cooperate with ICE in any form, shape or fashion. We will not interfere
with a legal operation that is being carried out by law enforcement. That's not our responsibility. And our officers will not put themselves in harm's way. And I don't think that any of you expect them
to do that. So that's where we stand as far as ICE is concerned. I know that we all reading lots of stories and people are trying to, you know, cast blame in different directions. But this is a very difficult
issue that all leaders are wrestling with across the United States. And we hope that our Supreme Court will do or would make similar
um would do similar things such as the one they just did recently where they prevented the National Guard from going into Chicago. We hope that that kind of protection from the highest court in the
land will continue across all states in the union. And that's pretty much all that I can say at this point. Um, I hope that clarifies some of the questions and concerns that you may have
and answers some of what you're hearing relative to ICE raids in the city. One of the things that's happening that has been reported to me is that as you know there was a time when undocumented people could not drive. They could not
get driver's licenses. Now they can. That information is housed with the different motor vehicle agencies across the country. And so it is very easy for
people to be tracked through these no database and it is easy for the government to know who we are and where we are at any given point in time. And if you have a
criminal record that a motor vehicles records and other types of records that are being kept whether it's insurance um are sources of information that would lead to the locations of individuals. So be
forewarned but know that this administration will not cooperate with ICE. Thank you. >> Thank you. Mayor, Director Fields, are you able to answer the question regarding cannabis? >> The cannabis unit falls under the
economic development department in terms of monitoring the air quality. All of the vendors are responsible for having a air mitigation plan in place. We can look into any of those vendors within that building. There are a few. It's not
just one vendor, but we will look into it. Thank you. Director John Louise, are you able to answer the question regarding garbage cans? >> Good evening. Yes, it was brought to my attention that there were some residents that were improperly putting out uh
garbage cans on their they weren't adhering to the schedule. Um we do have inspectors out there. We monitor uh we also ask the residents to call in if they see cans that are out there that's not during their collection time and we
uh give warnings and information so that we can get the the residents to comply. >> Thank you. I want to have a motion to close public comments. >> So move. >> Seconded. >> Thank you. Uh before we adjourn, I want to congratulate the mayor on his
reelection. Amazing job. I want to congratulate my council colleague, Councilwoman Terry Briggs Jones, on her re-election. I wish you all a happy new year, an amazing 2026, and I look forward to working with everyone. Um, can I have a motion to adjourn?
>> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you. Have a great afternoon, everyone.