The following is the regular council meeting of the brow country. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. on June 24th, 2020 minister Bur 25 consistent with the open public meetings act meeting will be open for public
comments and shall be informed with the terms and conditions of the burough's municipal code advisory. Please stand for reflex. Luke pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation
under God, indivisible, liberty and justice for all. >> Please bless this Mary Council as deliberate on the best of Palm. >> Yes, that's what I'm saying. 30 years ago. >> Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sorry. In accordance with the New Jersey Open
Public Cleaning Law Act, adequate notice of this meeting has been provided. The time, date, location, purpose of this meeting and agenda were posted on the municipal Bloomington board, transmitted to individuals requesting notice, and published electronically on the official web site of the Burough Compton Lakes. Roll call, please. >> Mayor Sarah
>> here. Council President >> here >> here >> with us this evening. >> Councilman Denn is excused. >> I'm sorry. >> Want to make it official.
>> Okay. With us this evening is our Gregory and our administrator Michael. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh just a quick update. It's been on social media for people who are not watching. We do have a little outbreak of rabies vac uh rabies going
on in town. There's been four confirmed cases of of bites of individuals uh who had to go through the systems and get tested for the shots. The both animals came back raid animals. You know, I have a little history with this. I've worked with animals for a long time. You know, once an animal is rabid to the point
where it's going after humans, it's it's close to death. They're ready to die, but they're also crazy at the same time. And that's why they'll go after people. So, I recommend if you see a not just a raccoon, I'll talk about that in a second. Any animal wandering toward you, walking towards you, most animals should
be walking away from you. They shouldn't be walking toward you. Um, if it's walking towards you, you should try to get inside or get in a car. When they're rabid, they get crazy enough where they will chase you and go after you. Uh the other thing to keep in mind is the way this spreads is because the animals
right now their raccoons are raid. They go after other animals in the wild and they come across a skunk. They get into a fight with the skunk. It's transmitted through salv saliva. Now the skunk becomes rabid also and that's how it spreads. It also spreads through the fact that if you feed your animals outside and le leave dog food outside or
cat food outside and a rabid animal eats that and then your animal eats that food, the saliva can spread to your pets also. So, it's very important at this time. Our animal control is on top of the cases. The individuals are being treated for for this. Um, it's not something that's just going to go away
tomorrow. So, we should be prepared. And you should report any sightings of of animals that are not looking usual to the police department or to our um animal control officer. But if you call our police department, they will gladly reach over to our animal control. So, just
>> food balls and water balls. >> And water balls. Correct. any it's it's transferred through saliva. So, you know, that's you don't want your animals or pets getting it. Um and and you know, a rabbit raccoon, which is out of control in mental capacity, will go after a bear. You know, they'll go chase
a bear down and just because they're crazy, bite the bear, the bear could get it, and then then grab an admirable die. So, it's it's a whole chain that keeps moving along. Okay, that's my update for that. Um motion to open the meeting for public comments. >> Some moved. Councilman Cruz, Councilman
Santers. All in favor? Against. Anyone in the public like to address? >> Mayor, just on the topic of the raccoons, I should say one thing. Um, just so you're aware, um, Lisa Perry uh, advised uh, the burrow andor me that
that that raid raccoon that's been out and about was captured and tested. And so it is off the street. The one that was causing the problem up on Glen Court and then Lennux A. >> What about the one on Hill and Ringwood? >> That uh that one? No, just the one that
between Lennox A and Glen Court. >> Okay. >> So, just want to give you that update. Thank you. >> Um again, anyone from the public like to address? >> Seeing no one, can I have a motion to close the public? Councilman H. >> Councilman Cruz. All in favor? >> I against.
>> Okay. A motion to approve the following minutes. Police a police award special council meeting June 9th. Regular meeting minutes June 10th. Close session meetings June 10th, 2026. Can I have a motion? >> Motion. >> Second big. Councilman Santers. All in favor?
>> Against. Uh motion to approve bills and claims as listed below. Can I have a motion? >> Motion. >> Councilman H. Councilman Cruz. All in favor? >> Against consent agenda. Anybody need something to explain or remove?
Yes. Got me right before he gave you >> uh 26 270 26 271 just a question. >> Okay. Any other >> 26 273
>> three 284 and 286 >> Okay. Okay. Please ex excluding those right away. >> Okay. Whereas the mayor, burough council as
proposed resolutions where the mayor council burl does desire resolutions for individual action from that agenda. Now therefore be resolved that the following resolutions on the consent agenda on 26-267 through
292 and we're going to pull resolution 270 271 273 284 and 286. >> Okay. Can I have a motion? >> Was that Councilman Cruz? >> Second. >> Councilman Hinton. All in favor? I
>> I >> against Okay. 26 270 and 26 271. >> Yeah, both of them. >> No, let first contact for office of emergency management. >> Yeah, we'll do both of those. You read
both of them? >> Both same time. award contracted in school enterprises for the uplift of utility hope for the office of emergency management. >> Okay, what's your question? >> Yeah, my question was um definitely
needed. My question was is it that expensive to outfit um the vehicle? Do we need all those bells and whistles? I mean uh 48 for the vehicle and 22 to outfit it. Those are the costs. What's
the going cost to do these? Okay. >> Yeah. Thank you, Councilman. So, uh, typically the vehicles come, you could get them either fully upfitted or partially upfitted or not upfitted. This company just happens to have two separate, uh, entities that they work
with. One is the dealership, one is the company that they use for the upfitting. Uh, but a Ford a basic Ford Explorer police interceptor package is what what this is. uh typically is about 65,000 off the lot for the vehicle. Um and you
know this vehicle was budgeted for at this amount so it's it's within budget you know in terms of our capital plan. Um and you know that's just happens to be the going rate for the police interceptor package. Uh we felt it was appropriate for OEM purposes. Uh that is
what the DPW superintendent has as well. Uh so it's just a common you know a common vehicle that you would see for that type of uh arrangement. >> So in a major emergency OEM has all the bells and whistles that police and DPW have.
>> So it's a little it a little little different um as I don't know what uh I guess if you're meeting for the total outfit police department different as OEM. I'm sure OEM doesn't have a police cage. They might not have computer. They
don't have Yeah, they're not going to have the computer. They're not going to have the shotgun mounts, things of that nature. But, uh, there could be other things that he has in there that he has associated with that we wouldn't have. Like, for instance, I know fire is now required to have like a special thing
for their gear inside a vehicle that I'm sure is not cheap that the police department would have in their vehicles. Like, so that they so that if you have fire, like the firemen are not breathing in all that that uh smoke and stuff that's on the gear inside their vehicles. It's in a special box. So, everybody's a little bit different
either. But either way, it's costly. None. >> This is a very base purchase. >> Yeah. >> So, all I can say, it's a good thing it wasn't a Tahoe >> perhaps more. >> Okay. 22 26 273. We'll do them all at
the end for one time. Avoid contract for security package lines on technology contract. PN cooperative purchase contract 533921553
the amount of $29,523. >> So I'm assuming this is for the recycling center. Is that correct? Okay. Question. >> These are the cameras at the >> That's what they cost. >> Recycling center. >> Yep. Well, I don't want to apologize, but I'm looking at nickels and dimes.
And >> well, when we look at when we look at nickels and dimes, it's got to go both ways. We can't hire new employees to do trails and at the same time try to cut our cameras. So, it goes both ways. >> And to, I guess, address the question, um, this was part of the budget and
capital process all along. Um, so it was, you know, fully budgeted for for this type of arrangement. Uh, we had two options. we could either purchase outright or lease the cameras. Uh but the small amount compared to prior projects that we did with cameras, you
know, being $200,000 and above. Uh we just decided to put it in our capital plan. Um so the contractor is expediting the installation ahead of the Burough Oakland Shared Service, which I'll address in my uh report. >> And we do need them, as you know, we do
need to really think we need cameras on the dumpster. >> Well, we've got people stealing stuff from the dumpsters. Yes, they take the the metal is there's worth money >> cuz if it's not worth 20 $29,000. >> No, but then we also have accidental. If
something happens and someone makes a claim about something, we now have proof that that happened or didn't happen. Someone gets hurt. >> Yeah. I think if you uh if you have any type of illegal dumping incident, if you have some people that are not that are accessing that area and we have to do an
investigation, we also uh store property on that county lot. Uh the DPW does. So, I think um it's definitely a preventative measure, but I think without those cameras when uh the police department would have to investigate
those things. Um if we didn't if we had if we didn't have the cameras, we'd have to put manh hours down there to either set up uh surveillance and then you're talking about uh a lot a lot of manh hours that hopefully now this would deter and avoid by by spending the money
to have these things uh uh in place. So, >> so is there a console in the recycling as well for the attendee as well as the police department? >> No, just >> no just for us. >> Yeah. >> Just so the feed is going to come back over here >> here and it'll go on individual phone.
>> The superintendent, the supervising landscape uh supervisor and myself also have access to the recycling center. >> Okay. Uh 26284 >> award a contract to Jon
Motors. The utility bill. >> Don't have any questions for that one. >> Yeah, it was just that I noticed on the paperwork um it says a 2026 Chevrolet Suburban utility and then on the next page it says 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe.
>> Are they the same thing or is this misprint on the paperwork? Yeah, we're getting a we're getting a Chevy Tahoe. >> Then why does it say Suburban on the >> Might just be a might just be a misprint, but we >> There was a couple of different spots that said Suburban.
>> You're most definitely getting the Taho. >> Can we look into >> Yeah, it's a Tahoe. >> Stop for sure. >> But he's right. If if it's says something. >> Yeah, we'll follow up to make sure. >> Suburban right there. >> It's a Tahoe. Yeah, it's our mistake. >> Okay. >> Uh 26 >> shows that I'm reading.
>> It does. 26286 >> amending resolution 26262 authorizing a time payout for Susan. >> So Susan Ali has left um us from the planning board and the building department and she's entitled to payouts for her time.
>> Yeah, but was she uh as a secretary under the secretary rules or was she a thorough employee? >> I didn't see where she had 14 hours of vacation time coming to her. She was full-time. >> Yeah. So she's a full-time employee. >> All right. So, it wasn't like Sha Tree second.
>> No. No. Yeah. Yeah. >> She was a full-time employee working in the building department. >> Okay. >> And just for the record, uh employees that get payouts when they resign are not eligible for sick time because sick time per state statute is only payable upon retirement. Uh if and when you were
hired. Uh so in this case, it's a very minor payout for unused vacation time. >> Thank you. >> All right. >> Okay. Liz is 26 looking at Nicholson and Don. >> Uh 26 270 26 271 26 273
26 284 and 26 286. Can I have a motion? >> Motion. >> Councilman Sanders. Councilman Cruz. All in favor? Hi. >> Uh, Sanders and Cruz. >> Ordinance. The first reading will be presented for second reading on final
adoption on July 22nd. Ordinance 26-22, an ordinance amending chapter 11 of the revised general ordinances of the Burough Compton Lakes Wag section regarding the Burrow of Palm Lake Civic Community Center. >> Okay. So, this is about what we talked
about of the use of the civic center or what we're going to do with it. Uh motion to approve ordinance 2622 for introduction. >> Motion. >> Councilman Beg. >> Second. >> Councilman Santers. Any discussion? >> Roll call, please. Councilman
Cruz. >> Yes. >> Councilman Kent, >> yes. >> Council President Kenn, >> yes. >> Council, >> yes. >> Council J. >> Yes. >> Ordinance 26-23, an ordinance amending
and supplementing the salary ranges of the of the employees of the borrow in the county of the state in the state of New Jersey. Motion to approve ordinance 26-23 for introduction. >> Councilman Hinton. Councilman Bay. Uh, any discussion?
>> Nope. Okay. Roll call, please. >> Councilman, >> yes. >> Yes. >> Council President, >> yes. >> Councilman, >> yes. >> Councilman, >> yes. >> Just for clerical, you know, ours ours are reading different than your list, right? It starts with bag on ours.
>> Oh, really? >> Yeah. >> It's okay. I'm not insulted. I just want to make sure. >> Okay. >> In ordinance amending chapter 56 permit business regulation section 20 solicitors and campuses subsection 5
time of operation in section 21 soliciting charitable subsection time of operation and municipal photos of of the borrow. Motion to open the meeting for public comments on ordinance 26-20. >> Councilman Hint second.
>> Councilman B. All in favor? >> Yes. Anyone like to address just this ordinance? >> Seeing no one. Motion to close the public session on ordinance 26-21. >> Motion. Council >> second. Councilman Santers. Was that Sant?
>> Motion to approve ordinance 26-21 for final adoption. >> Motion. Councilman Sanders >> second. >> Councilman Beg. Roll call, please. >> Do they even? >> Yes. >> Councilman. >> Yes. >> Yes.
>> Yes. >> Come on. Wasn't first. No, I'm just kidding. >> And And I Let me just say I think this is I'm just joking. >> This is a good ordinance. I think this is something we all work on together to make this a little better for our residents. We did have a lot of
complaints about the vendors. Uh, and I know the attorneys had to spend a lot of time working out the fine print of it, but I think it should help the residents who rightly so shouldn't be having people knocking on the door at 9:00. >> Yeah, cuz Verizon Verizon's out again. They knocked on my door last night
>> and uh they didn't have their license with them, >> right? >> Nor did they uh know about having their license with them. >> That's what they always say. They didn't know. >> Yeah. So >> at three notches. >> Yeah. So >> okay. Under my report uh I attended the
flag day ceremony only. Always one of my favorite ceremonies to attend especially when the children are involved and to listen to the words that are said uh at the ceremony. It's always nice to hear about the flag. And it's the one time that you know people come together for all the same reason at the end of the day to salute our flag and support our
our flag. So it's always a nice event that the Elks put on. Uh we had a personnel meeting. Uh we had a DPW meeting about our new garbage which I know Michael will speak about soon. Um I attended the uh had a long discussion at
the bid meeting uh in reference to garbage cans. I know there's been a lot of talk on social media about garbage. We have addressed some of it by saying what we're going to do is buy these compactor cans that are large cans and they compact the garbage down making
more space for the garbage on top. And then as the cans get close to filled, they send a message to the DPW saying the can is filled. We're going to purchase six of them. We're splitting the cost with the bid. These cans are not cheap. They're over $20,000 for the total cost. Uh but we we're going to try
them. So, we're buying six. We'll strategically put them in our downtown in places that we think will work. Um but at the end of the day, the two things to keep in mind, we live in this town, all of us. We should not be throwing our garbage on the ground to begin with as we're walking, right? We
should be walking with our garbage to a can. Now, we had some situations where the dumpsters were overflowing and it was a dumpster that wasn't being paid for. Um, and it it became an issue and we addressed it from the town side. Thank you to Dan and DPW for, you know,
Mike and I called them and said, "It's not our property. Go clean the property up. We'll hold the dumpster hostage until because the business was not paying the hauler to pick up the garbage. So, of course, the garbage built up. We called up the hauler. Holler said, "We're not coming out until he pays his bill. So, we're going to
we're addressing that." But those are isolated situations, right? That's a one-time thing that we kind of fixed. What we're looking at is the future of how the garbage will look at. Uh, so you know, the other thing we we talked about and we're doing right now, we've pulled the cans from the pawn during the summer hours when the kids are not in school
because there's no need really need. That's when they're crossing back and forth. Um, I did reach out to the superintendent to just remind the kids next year when they come in that when they're going back and forth for garbage and lunch, maybe they have to walk 10 feet holding their garbage before they dump it in the can. Okay? It's not just
throwing it in the pond to hole. and and on our our side, we have to be more conscious of picking up the cans in the pontoon. If they get filled, the DPW should go fill them. We're saying that uh we Mike and I spoke with Dan and and we're going to have regular pickups. I
won't say when, but through the week for the garbage cans downtown. So, it's not just going to be on Tuesday and Thursday, for example. you know, be hopefully, you know, at least four days, maybe five days a week or when they see a can filled, you know, and and I would hope our DPW is uh conscious enough when
they're driving downtown, they see a can filled, even though they're going somewhere else, then they call it our superintendent and say, "Hey, look, those cans are filled. We should probably pick them up." So, we are working on the problem. Not saying we're we're fixing it. The other thing we have an issue with is illegal dumping. What illegal dumping means, these are public
cans. That means taking a bag of garbage from your home and putting it on the side of the can on the on the floor because the can is too filled. You can't do that. That's illegal dumping. We do have cameras, correct, chief >> downtown. And if we catch you illegal dumping, you will be fined. Okay. They
are public cans for anyone to use, but to put it on top of the can or on the side of the can is illegal. So, if that can's filled, you need to find a better place to dump that cartridge. Uh I attended the final uh design meeting about our how we'd like the future of
our downtown to look like. It's made up of council members, um redevelopment agency members, planning board members, um citizens, and some bid members. And we've had numerous meetings over the last five months to come up with a guide for when someone's wanting to do
something in town. This is a guide. This doesn't tell you anything, but like for an example of what we did is we made a color palette of colors we'd like to see in our downtown. doesn't mean you have to do this color. There's ranges in those colors, but for example, pink was not one of those colors we want to see
downtown, right? So, those are the kind of things that we discussed a little bit. I know there's a lot of discussion about setting the buildings back, but unless someone's doing a whole block, the only way we can set the building back is if they're doing a whole block. Because if they're only doing half a block, you can't have one building half forward, the other building half back.
So, you know, that is something we we are cons conscious of. We want to move the buildings back if possible. And if someone comes in and wants to do a whole lot, we will make them do that. But unfortunately, if it's just a small area, we really can't do that. And that is my report. Can I ask one question, mayor? Sure. >> Will they be um when you're completed
with this, will they be coming to a council meeting just to provide a recap for us to uh >> I think uh the first August meeting. >> We're Yeah, we're looking to do the public hearing at the only meeting in August. And then that's directed for the council for the people who weren't on the board to ask some questions and make
some comments and that's for you guys to kind of jump into that. >> Thank you. >> Um, one other thing, Mayor, I was watching uh channel 77 the other day and I was watching the redevelopment meeting from April 30th. Redevelopment meeting
was in mid April, but I guess it got postponed to the end of the month. >> Yeah. And uh Councilman Dunn was out that next meeting and never gave a report. Um and you're at every meeting. Um >> yeah, I can do that next time. Well, I
can give you a report now what they talked about if you want. >> If you could. >> Yeah, they the um what we call the ice cream station project, the Smith project came to redevelopment. Uh it was approved by the redevelopment agency to go ahead. They made the project much smaller, which was the recommendation of
the redevelopment board the first time they were there. So they went from 52 units I think to 41 units. The other recommendation from this council was well from the uh redevelopment agency was losing no retail at all. Initially they were getting rid of the retail on Koffax Avenue. They're keeping all the
retail. Uh they will no longer need a a garage really the basement parking and then they're going to be buying spots from us about 22 spots from us from the town which we have in in the pond hole. So that's more revenue than we're going to make off this project. So I think the redevelopment agency looked at it as a
good tradeoff. They did come back listening to the recommendations of the board. Um and the next step for them now will be coming to us the council for the plan to redevelopment plan. >> Do the spots that are there is there any impact to the senior parking or any other parking during the day at all?
>> No. So uh another deal I'm trying to work out is the parking here that's part of the new building that's going to Oh, I should talk about that, but the new building that's going to open up soon. and trying to let them let us use that during the day till like 2:30, 3:00 for parking, for shopping, and then when the residents come in, they'd have to park
there at night because they need those spots. Uh but we because unfortunately we lost the theater, which we saved 100 spots for in the pond hall, uh we now have an extra 100 spots in the pond hall. So that's what we're making up the difference. The other suggestion, by the way, that they came up with, which is a good one, is on the corner of Kfax and
and Lakeside, they angled the cut of the building. So, it makes the sidewalk wider on that corner on both corners actually on that corner and the Koffax and Wanuk. So, it's an angled cut this way. Um, making more of a wider sidewalk. Now, the question I'm always
hearing from a lot of residents, all the businesses are offered to to come back to that establishment if that's where they want. Obviously, they got to build the building. So that's they're not going to be able to build it with people there. Um I don't know if people are aware the ice cream station did sell again recently. Um so I know that there
every every retail person that's there now is offered to come back if they want to. Can't tell you what the rental will be. Can't tell you any of those things. Uh I should also throw in that we had a meeting with uh the new building uh the Capidia building uh that will open up
probably for leasing if everything goes right with their permitting. August, first week of August, they will start leasing that building and hopefully have some residents in there by mid to late August. Uh, another thing, by the way, that we discussed in this uh, design meeting was those flag poles, which I'm
not a big fan of, to be honest. Um, but it was a good suggestion that we don't allow advertising on those flag poles. So, the only thing that can go on those flag poles are state, local, and federal flags. So, they can't have a sign up there says free leasing. you know, this is how much it costs. They do have three
polls there. So, we'll see what they're going to put there. But this does affect them because this was passed before they actually did something. So, well, if we get it done in August. Uh, so I think that'll help us too. I'm pushing a little bit. I'm talking with them privately and maybe remove the flags or whatever, but I don't know if they'll go
for that. So, in this design, there was previous design access from parking underneath out onto Kfax Avenue. So, that's been eliminated. >> No, you can still come out to Kfax Avenue. No, there was a parking garage in this project. >> Oh, the the Smith project.
>> Yeah. And there was >> That's gone. Yes. >> That's gone. >> Yeah. So, all the parking will come in the back of the building from the pond hall and easement will have to be worked out with our attorneys and this board uh how to get in and out and then that'll be to enter the parking on the bottom. And then any additional parking will be
in the pondole. Now, remember when I say additional parking, they're not guaranteed spots. It's not like 20 spots closest to their buildings. They're guaranteed 20 spots throughout the pontoon. Because as you're aware, we have an issue with the St. Mary's food bank. Um,
a lot of people come for their food and they're getting tickets. >> I had a conversation with Father Frank over there, Father John, I'm sorry, Father John, and he apologized and to me and said they had no right to contact us and to pitch about that issue. Um,
they're very happy with the way it's set up right now, the church, and they have they see no issues with the way it's running. So those 100 parking spots for this project shouldn't affect St. Mary's food line. >> It's not 100 spots. They're they're asking I think 22 spots. >> Oh, we have an extra hundred because we
put a 100 aside for the theater back a couple years ago. >> Um but we the theater closed. So now we have >> I just wouldn't want to see a project with a problem with St. Mary's. >> No, no, we want to keep the short yet. >> Did you want something? >> If I may, really quick, just to go back to the flag polls at the Meridia
building. Uh we did get a inquiry from a resident who's a professional engineer. Our engineers were also aware of this. There's some sort of ADA issue with the flag pole. There's not enough room between the flag pole and the sidewalk going down Babcock for a wheelchair. So
we suspect that those poles will have to be moved. >> Good. And and I I thought so too. I said it was awful tight. >> So we'll follow up. Good. Did you have something? >> Yeah. I was just going to relay the same thing with St. Mary. So So we have a very good relationship with police department. St. Mary's place does the borrow. Um, and I was going to say the
same thing. Um, we were uh once that post went up, the the church uh contacted us said, you know, was very explicit saying that that whoever made the post does not represent the church. Um and just so that so so yourself and the rest of the council know uh that
food pantry we we we worked with them uh extensively on um the food pantry what goes on down there allow multiple people within the church people to come down there to uh have the passes so that they can park down there. Um so it's been
working very well and if there is any issues um you know they they know that that they they just call us and we usually take care of it. So, um, as far as I'm concerned, uh, I understand it did go out on social media, but it was it was unfortunately mis it wasn't it
was it wasn't presented. Yeah, it wasn't accurate. Maybe it was accurate to the individual that wrote it, but that's not how the the church is looking at it and um and uh yeah, there's no there's no issues. >> Okay, good. Thank you. Okay. Uh, that's president's report.
>> Okay. I've been under the weather a little bit, so I'm trying to >> talk fast. >> Talk fast. Um, I did help uh my my neighbors were the ones were one of the ones that were involved with the the rabid raccoons and
that was a very frightening thing to um have two of my neighbors bitten attacked severely attacked um and you know it's not a pleasant thing to have to go for now these rabies shocks that are I think there's four consecutive ones when they
uh had had 12 12 needles the first day out there including the rabies and tetanus and antibiotics and so on. So, I take this very seriously. Um, any animal that is crying out loud, acts peculiar or aggressive day or night, please
contact the police department. And I wish all of the people that are injured uh a full recovery. Um, I was going to ask our attorney uh regarding the letters to the governor's office uh for the $75 million that we received a part
of that money for uh for our damages here in Compton Lakes. But I understand that u there's been no response yet. So that's three times now that we've sent out a letter and no response from the governor's office. That is unacceptable. Unacceptable. So, I think at our next
meeting we're we should decide what we're going to do and when Mark when Mark comes. >> Yeah, it's not much we can do. >> No, not right. Not right now. Yeah. Thank you. I also attended the bid meeting and as the mayor said, these um very expensive, but I think they're necessary
um trash compactor garbage cans are used because uh it's very important that we have a a nice looking downtown. Um, and I did reach out to our chief Rodriguez and I asked him in his report to address
the littering ordinance that we have on board. Um, because in my in my opinion, if we can catch someone who's littering. All we need is one one person to make the example out of it. You can't leave your garbage on the street. You know, if you have eggs and bacon, and I think it
was one of the pictures that I watched, you know, and it's sitting right there on the curb. Unacceptable. We we we're very proud of our town and we are proud of our of uh all of the um DPW works that we had. We had to remove garbage
cans. You know, I can't believe at this day and age, we have to do this, but this is what we have to do and spend quite a bit of money on very expensive cans just to make sure that we have enough room. So, people, please just, you know, treat downtown like your
hometown like it is. Um, but thank you um I thank you Anthony ahead of time for for putting that uh email together on the ordinances and I know you're going to discuss that later. We had we did have a question mayor regarding the sports complex off Walnut
Avenue. >> Yeah, that's been addressed by the police. They they know there it's illegal funding. That's what it is. >> Okay. I just wanted to see if that was addressed or not. All right. Thank you. And I'm looking forward to working with the Oakland Bar DPW staff on our shared service agreement. Um, I think it's
going to be a very successful event and um, I did bring the the gentleman's cookies down there the other day just to welcome them to Pompton Lakes. I thought that would be a nice gesture. Uh, okay. I'm also looking forward to the completion of the Meridian building. I mean, it's a big building. It's a
beautiful building and looking forward to taking some of the the pilot money starting to have that pay itself off in our our taxes. Um, I also was on the design standard uh um call regarding the
new buildings in the burrow. This is something that was a long time necessary and I'm glad that we're at the point that we're at because now a burrow can actually decide what colors and standards and appeals that we want for our future buildings. It's very important. I know people want to keep
the downtown looking a little bit historic and we'll have that ability to do that now. Well, I'm going to be meeting with the open space committee in July. There is no vacation, although they tried to sneak on in, but we they shut them down. Thank you,
Councilman Beg, for doing that. Uh because it's very important because we really have um we're we're really working very hard to get all of these projects underway. And it's hard when you take off a month and then you come back a month and then people are on vacation. So, that did not happen and I
appreciate that very much. We're also going to be talking about what the future of Hersfield Park is going to look like as well as the Muller property on Lakeside Avenue. Um, I also called our mayor, I mean, um, I called our administrator uh, regarding the street
sweeper. Had no water in it. 7:00 in the morning. You can't sweep a street without water in the um, in the machine. and Mike, they came back and they did clean the streets again and it had ample water and it and it was clean. So, I
want to thank you for doing that. And I made it. Thank you. Um Oh, yeah. And and there is on our website um a lot of information about the raccoons. So, please take a look at that if you're if you're curious. Okay. And that is my report. >> So, going back to your street sweeper,
Mike, did they acknowledge there was no water or what was the answer? Uh they just reiterated that they'll inform their staff to make sure that there's water in the you know in the apparatus. Uh we did have a conversation with the Bow of Riverdale. The Bow of Riverdale is purchasing a new street sweeper. Uh
and they are interested in working with us. >> Uh so we're going to look at that if it's feasible or not. >> Let's do that >> because I I know they came down my street too with no water. >> It's pretty obvious. Have have there been any discussions that they can get water here in town and they're not going
back to Bloomingdale to get water? >> They typically discussions with the MUA. >> Yeah, they typically fill up with the hydrant at the DPW facility. >> Okay. So, >> so they do, but they don't they don't fill it up. That's what the problem is. So, >> it's like a big dust ball going down.
>> Oh, yeah. It happens on Broad Street sometimes, too. >> But I think more to come with maybe a different provider. >> Yeah. >> So, >> thank you. Okay, Councilman B, you got a whole book here to read. Thank you, mayor. Uh, I'd like to make a motion to approve a request to hold the pump sponsor fire department 125th
anniversary celebration at Antique Musker uh Saturday, August 2 uh 22nd uh 2026 from 2 to 8:00 p.m. at 1 uh Pay Gap in Boston Lakes. Pay Gav will be closed to motor vehicle traffic prior to the
event between Grandpo A and Hamburg turnpike. Road closure begins at 1:00 through 9:00 p.m. Alcohol will be served ABC18 permit. Um temporary fencing uh is required for alcohol consumption area by the alcohol
beverage commission. Fencing will um fencing to be constructed by the Department of Public Works. No alcoholic beverages will be served or permitted outside this area. assistance from the DP um from the DPW uh for garbage and waste traffic
assistance by the Pont Lakes Police Department road closure road closure application to be submitted to the Pate County food truck vendors to participate in the event and they must obtain a food permit. Uh police first aid squad and fire departments have been notified.
>> Before we go to a second uh uh Liz, have they reapplied for the permit yet? for for the road closure. >> No, no, for the alcohol. >> They said they did. >> Okay. So, we haven't heard anything yet. >> I I don't believe that I've gotten that
yet. I would have to look. >> All right. We just got to stay on top of that to have that. Okay. Can I have a sec? Okay. Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Councilman Sanders. All in favor? I think first >> and I'd like to make a motion to approve the request of the Ponta Lakes Business Improvement District to close WQu
between Pa Lakes and Lakeside AB between the hours of 4 until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 13th, 2026 for the spring and uh summer stroll. also to the use of Bartholoff AB, Rambo A and Lakeside A as a detour route to post
road closure signs at Pmpton A, Wanqav, Kfax AB, Wanuku app, Babcock AB, Wanqav, Lennox AB, Wanqav, and a local traffic only sign at Lennox a rare po, state county board of commissioners, office of
county engineer, the uh police, fire hate and fire departments have been notified. Can I have a second? >> Second, >> Councilman Sanchers. All in favor? >> I against. >> Okay. Thanks. >> All right. Thank you. Um for my report
real quick. Um I attended this uh attended the EPC uh meeting this month. Um they have a tent for National Night Out. They're preparing for that event. Um there is no EPC meeting next month for July, so it'll conclude back in August. Um after the EPC meeting, I
attended the open space meeting. Prior to the meeting, we all met at Willow Field Complex to um review uh the new lightning detection signs. The county produced the signs at a reduced cost and we want to thank them for that. So, I know they they proposed that when we met with open space and
it's really good for us. >> Um our next meeting will be on July 9th at 6:00. So, different than 7:30. Um we'll meet at Lakeside Park to review the Bowler property and then have our meeting take place afterwards in the park. So, you know, all more than
welcome to participate in that. Um, >> what's the date? >> That meeting? >> That's going to be July 9th. >> Yeah. So, normally we meet at 7:30. We're going to be at 6:00 so we can review the property. >> Um, decide some things that we want might want done with that. Um, it is
also to put in there that again the fence is not coming down until the following year. Um the county is trying to help us out with sidewalks in which is good for you know school safety stuff. Even today I was going down Lakeside Avenue and there are kids
they're walking in the middle of the street. So hopefully getting sidewalks down there provided by the county will be a great benefit to the town. Um it will be on the residential side. Um it won't be on the lakeside part of it >> and it's needed. >> What's that? >> It's needed.
>> Yeah. I really do think I think we all agree it's needed. >> Yeah. Can you send me a notice so we can post it on our website? They can change it. >> Change it. I did ask Alexa to send that to you. >> If she does not send that to you, I will 100% >> Okay.
>> Um, get that to you. >> And then I also attended the flag ceremony held at the Elks Lodge. Um, it was my first time attending. Um, really nice, really educational, >> you know, uh, really learned a lot from it. So, thank you to the Ups Lodge for that. Um later that night I attended the
the Pompton day meeting. Um everything's coming together pretty well for Pompton day. We're moving along quite well. Um we are over halfway more than the vendors we had last year at this point. And like you know a ton of food vendors. So um I I
got to calculate the food vendors probably close to 20 already though. So it's really good. And then last Thursday I attended the bid meeting via Zoom. Uh the next stroll is uh July 16th. Another has been rescheduled for August 13th. Um
the first concert is actually tomorrow night with the 3M band. Uh we anticipate a large crowd, so get there early and claim your spot on the um on the lawnmower uh library lawn, sorry. And then finally, last night I attended the
recreational meeting. Um summer camp starts on Monday. Um there are still opening registrations so you can register the day of camp or even the second day if you need to. Um pickup ball is every Monday and Wednesday night. >> Register in camp, right? You go right to Lakeside to do that.
>> Uh Hersville. >> I mean Hersville. >> Yeah. So if you want to register Monday or Tuesday, you can go right to Hersville Park and we'll register you on the spot >> for that. >> And then pickle ball is every Monday and Wednesday night from 68th through August
19th in Hersville Park. Volleyball takes place on Monday nights from 6:00 to 8 at Hersville Park. And then lastly, our paddle boat um paddle boats and kayaks are open for rental every weekend until Labor Day at Lakeside Park, you know, and for free, you can go out and play
cornhole and different activities out there. We really encourage residents and not there's a lot of non-residents that actually go out there and rent our kayaks and paddle boats. So, it's a really popular activity and we encourage you to really go out there and and uh participate in it. Even if it's your own
kayak, go out there and have fun on our waters. You know, I think it's a 175 square acre lake or something like that. So, and then um the last piece is I'd also like to congratulate our baseball team on making it to the group finals
and I wish the congratulating class of 2026 but success as they move on to their future endeavors. So, thank you. >> Uh Michael, just one thing we talked about something we should look into at the um uh Pontto day meeting. I I think we should look into purchasing a golf
cart because the cost of these golf carts now are really a lot of money. we're spending what would cost us to buy a golf cart, even if we got it used. So, it doesn't have to happen right away, but I think, you know, we should look into it because we're spending five grand a year just on golf carts. >> And and I did uh I got two POS from my
school district. Uh we just purchased two two golf carts, brand new. Um one was just over $8,000, >> right? >> Brand new. >> I two years will make up the difference. >> And it's a and it's a fourseater. >> Yeah. So, >> storage underneath. So, years ago, the
county would let us have the carts for free or very cheap. They've since gotten away with that program, even though they have their own golf course that we pay into. Uh, they charge us full price for those. So, it's something we should talk about. >> Okay. Um, Council Cruz, >> nothing new to report, Mayor.
>> Okay. Thank you, Councilman Hick. >> Oh, that got thrown on me quick. Wait for a nice long report. Hope there. Um, yeah. Um I attended the um Hfield Park foot
bridge ribbon cutting festival. >> That was a nice little fair state and um they turned over the bridge in town likes. Um we're also waiting for uh three trees they are going to plant for
us when the installation of the bridge. They took a large tree down so they're going to be planting three more trees. um discussion with Michael, we might hold off until the fall because of the watering situation in the heat of the summer. So, um but it was a nice little
ceremony. Um had a meeting with the police finance committee um that same evening on Monday evening. Went over quite a few items with the police department. Um let's see. I met John Linson, our arborist
certified tree expert down at Hurstfield Park. Um Pete Arti was on vacation and John was scheduled to come that day. So I just walked around with him and he pointed out different issues in Hurstfield Park. But if we're starting summer camp, um a lot of those issues
can't be addressed unless they're able to do it in the afternoon. Um >> unless they get it done and it's safe for the next day. Yeah, that's so it might have to be postponed till after. There's um quite a few trees that need to be cabled because they got V crotches
on them and uh and two need to be removed and few crown reduction. So, um I went over it with Pete today because he's back from vacation. Um let's see.
met with Michael Carelli um out at Hersfield again for those three trees. They wanted to know species and location. So, we came up to a conclusion on the species and location for those trees. Um we had a meeting that
Wednesday night with DPW and went over a few issues of which we're going to have another meeting about. Um, one of the issues that we came up with and they talked about was possibly picking up garbage in town 4 days a week.
>> They've already started. >> They've already started for the summer months. So, that'll help alleviate the problem that we've been having lately. So, um, that's a a great move. Um, let's see. Number five, six. I met with the seniors. Seniors are getting ready for
their little casino trip in July, which I'll definitely be on that bus. So, that'll be interesting. And uh I spent a couple of hours with Pete Arti and Shade Tree today also uh going over
those trees in Hersfield and and a few other areas. We were over by the mayor's house and uh that tree gone. >> Uh your tree. Oh, no. That's staying at least that got another hundred years. >> No, it's coming down. >> So, he sick as a sick tree,
>> you know. I mean, we can't play favorites here, man. >> No favorites. Ring up the curve. >> Um, I wanted to bring up a couple of things. Um, on the ordinance committee, we had talked about fence height and now we have an issue
with rabid raccoons. We also have issues with coyotes. an article in the trends uh found animals. It's a program dedicated to creating safer world for humans and pets. Their recommendation to coyote proof fences the fences must
be 7 to 8 ft tall. >> They dig underneath. >> Yeah, >> they dig underneath. I can show you. >> But I'm just saying heightwise. >> I could show you the road that they've built between houses. >> Mayor, is this my time? I'm not talking.
>> But um you know, it's another thing to look at. I mean, the raccoons are getting bad with the rabies. Coyotes are there was an issue over by uh council president's house with coyotes. >> So, it's something that really needs to be addressed. And also on the ordinance
committee, we need to talk about an issue came up with shaitree. Whereas with the emerald ash boore that came through the town in the last few years, there's so many standing dead ash trees. Now on the south end of Pine
Street, 213 Pine, the back end of their property, the dead ash trees are right up against their neighbor at 68 central and they're wondering what can we do about it. Now discussions with our administrator,
we don't really have an ordinance that addresses trees on property through property maintenance. This is something that we need to address because right now there's no recourse for 68 on private property. We don't have a sale on private property.
>> This is what I'm talking about, Mr. Mayor. We need an ordinance where we do have a say and have an ordinance through property maintenance. But most towns do not have that. >> Most towns do have I'm talking to Lson. He says Pumpton Lakes is one of the few
towns that does it. >> On private property we're talking about. >> We're talking on private property. >> The surrounding towns around cuz I spoke to them. >> Well, I mean it's between you and our New Jersey certified tree expert. >> Yes. >> But he's works in a lot of different
towns and he says a lot of towns do have an ordinance that covers that. So we need to address this. We'll have an ordinance meeting on it. We'll discuss it. >> Mhm. So, that needs to be taken care of. And uh let's see. St. Mary's Food Bank I
talked about. Um I'll save the rest of the questions for the administrator. >> I do want to say thank you for sending out the picture of the mud turtle. >> Oh, it is nice to have natural habitat that we know is coming back. Yes, we have a love it.
>> We have a good 12 to 14 inch turtle laying eggs down at Joel Grail Field and talked to my son-in-law who's a a turtle nut and uh he says good 8 to 9 weeks they should be hatching. So mid August there should be a lot of little turtles
running around >> in the bud. >> Thank you for sending them out. >> Seriously. >> Yeah, I have a bunch in my backyard a bunch of turtles and actually they come up to my pool. >> Oh yeah. Yeah, >> they they want the queen award. >> That's all, man.
>> Thank you, uh, Councilman Senters. >> Thank you, Mayor. I attended the last game for the Challenger baseball program. That was great to see how much fun the players had. Each player had a buddy um to help to help them run and
catch. Um, the buddies had just as much fun as the uh players did. Oh, I'm sorry. Um, I also attended the the last uh clinic and it was on the on the new field. The
kids had fun. Mike was a coach there and uh the kids were hilarious running around and just having a blast. Uh, I also attended the Elks uh flag day ceremony. It was a great ceremony. It
actually taught you a lot about the history of the flag and uh the uh background of it. So if anyone can attend it next year, it's uh well um the ceremonies are really good. I
attended the riming ceremony for the uh turning over the brid Hersfield bridge. It's nice. It's now everybody can cross. It's so now open in time for um our our summer program. So the kids can ride
their bikes to uh their uh their uh program in the mornings. Uh there was no uh planning board meeting last uh month and MUA getting back to the fire hydrant on Hemlock. They both both fire hydrants
worked. Uh when the MUA flushed the systems during the uh spring, the MUA reached out to the fire chief and they were still waiting for an answer back from the fire chief on what the problem was with those hydrants at that fire.
And uh that is my report. >> Thank you. Thank you for reminding me. We I think some of us here attended some grand openings in town. There is a new uh therapy building inside what we called the old mall uh behind kind of Liberty uh uh tax in that section there.
There was a new building in there and there was a new karate school that's opening up too uh in downtown. I I can tell you that because of the buildings opening up downtown, there's a lot more interest in retail coming in. And it's not just retail coming in for the people
who are the landlords. They can charge a higher square footage now than they were getting in previous years, which is what we're trying to do. When you charge the higher retail square footage, you get their the clientele that you're looking for. So, uh, in in retail. So, that's a good sign. That's the movement of the
right in the right direction. Um, so that's that's promising to see. And, uh, you know, right now, I know people drive downtown and which it's strange to me that they say it, our town is empty. I drive around a lot of towns that are half empty. Our town is pretty much filled with businesses right now. There's a couple stores that are open.
You know, in the Starbucks mall itself, there's not one empty store over there. Um, so I think the town itself is doing a great job in keeping our vital downtown moving forward. It's a hard sell right now, you know, especially with the prices of things. People are going to box stores more than ever. And
we really have to remember to shop local if we want to keep our businesses in town. You know, at the end of the day, that's who's supporting the business in downtown us. And if we want to keep them, we have to support them. >> Also met a um marine recruiter in that mall. >> Yes. You know, >> that's a nice and that's going to be
another grand opening coming soon for that. That's a nice building. >> You still have a chance to join us. >> Okay. Um attorney, do you have any report? >> I have not returned. >> Okay. Administrator. >> Thank you, mayor. Uh as an update, the bureau is making final preparations uh
for the shared service agreement with the BO of Oakland for solid waste recycling and vegetative waste collection services which again begins on Wednesday, July 1st, 2026. Uh all of our staff is in place and training is near completion. The dumpsters have
started to be uh transferred over to Oakland. Uh our recycling center is in process. We're uh again in process installing the uh installing the security cameras uh for the start of the Oakland residence to access the center.
Uh so we'll definitely keep everyone posted for next week as the start dates a week from today. Um so definitely excited about that. Um as an update for the DPW garage uh replacement project. >> Can I just jump in for a second because there was some talk on social media just
so everybody understands who's watching this. Your garbage pickup here in Pmpton Lakes is not changing from what we're doing. It's the same gentlemen, the same garbage trucks, the same people picking up your garbage. Nothing is changing. The only change is in Oakland, we are
adding more men in more garbage trucks to pick up their garbage. Our schedule stays the same. And if anything, you're getting an advantage in the next couple months. I won't say it's going to be soon, but maybe in the spring, uh, the fall, we'll be picking up grass clippings from your home just like Oakland does. So, I know there was some
discussion, and I don't know why, that we're going to lose our manpower going to Oakland to work in Oakland. That's not how this is put together. Also, Michael did a great job in working out a five-year deal, and there are accelerators in there for increases in in costs and pension benefits and
overall costs that go up from year to year. Some people are saying, "Well, yeah, it's going to be great the first year, but the fifth year we're going to be underwater." We've taken advantage of of thinking of all that moving forward. Now, did I say we thought of everything? No. But at the end of the day, this is a huge shared service. We're one of the
few towns in New Jersey doing a shared garbage pickup with another town in a different county. Okay? And and you know, I I we spoke with the governor's office a little bit about this. And it's something they they want to see more happening more in a lot of the smaller towns in New Jersey, the the shared
services across county lines. And it benefits one, it benefits the the counties, but it also benefits the towns because both towns are going to save money or make money depending on what you're doing on how that works. So, we're setting an example here. So, I think it's a great start and I think this is a big deal. There's going to be
bumps in the road. No question. The first couple weeks could be a little challenging till we get the roads down, but here in Pompton Lakes, nothing is changing. >> Thank you, Mayor. to your point about the cost accelerators. Uh we as as you know we did budget for several family
plans and single uh plans for health benefits for the new nine employees. We are seeing that four of those employees uh are going to be under the waiver. Uh so it's a $5,000 cash payment for the employees in lie of health benefits in
lie of a premium of $40 to $60,000 per employee. So, right off the bat, we're saving, you know, over $100,000 just by happen to be lucky and getting people that don't need insurance. Um, so those are the types of things that we're seeing. Um, and again, uh, with the
residents, uh, with seeing the new calendar come out in the next week or so, uh, they will see that starting April 2027, we will be picking up curbside grass. So, that is in the calendar. uh we will announce that. We can say it now because the calendar's
coming out. Um but we thank the DPW for working with us on that and uh providing a good level of service uh to the residents. So, thank you, mayor. Um in addition, uh we are working uh we did have on tonight's agenda our municipal aid applications with the NJ DOT, which
again consists of the resurfacing of Arcadia Road from Albany a to Hersfield Park and Riverview Road from Ramipo to Albany a. Uh we do have a pending prior grant for the resurfacing of Albany aav from Riverview Road to Arcadia Road as
well as Edwards a which will be completed next year. We did submit on tonight's agenda a 2027 NJ dot local aid infrastructure fund grant for the Lakeside A pedestrian safety improvements project which again is the
resurfacing of Lakeside A from Jefferson A to Chain Court with the installation of sidewalks on the residential side of the road as Councilman Bake had pointed out before. Um, and we are working on final preparations for the resurfacing of Lakeside A from Van A to Chain Court
as well as Chain Court, which we hope to be out to bid this summer and uh, under construction later this fall for the project. So, we're looking forward to that. Uh on the next council meeting, you'll see a proposal for engineering services for miscellaneous ADA curb ramp
replacements project which was funded through the 2025 community development block grant program. Uh so we can announce that we have ADA replacements at Riverview Road, Edwards, Pine, Willow, Woodlon, Magnolia, Durm Street,
Whiteway, Peranav, and Riverdale Road. So, those are all coming up this year. Uh we hope to be out to bid and under construction this fall. Uh again, as we approved at last uh at the last council meeting, excuse me. Uh we are looking to resurface the
Hersfield Park uh walking path, which will be done either in August or after Pompton Day. Uh so that's coming up. Um, and then lastly, we are in receipt of a grant award through the Pay County Open Space Farmland and Historic Preservation
Trust Fund for the Willowfield playground project, which was funded in the amount of $229,000 for a new playground at Willowfield. That playground will be where the garbage corral currently is, and our plans are to relocate the corral to
another area. Um, so that's coming up. And then lastly, uh, with the DPW garage project, we are anticipating the state of New Jersey budget to be adopted. There was a news announcement that the governor and legislature came to an
agreement on the state budget. Once the bill text is provided, we will know whether or not we did receive an earmark for the DPW garage project. We aren't as hopeful. Uh, you know, we'll see what happens, but we're definitely interested to see the bill text come out. We'll
definitely report back on that. Thank you. >> Any questions for sure? >> Yes. >> Um, three items. Uh, the hole on Riverview Road by the falls. Any progress on that?
>> No update. That is with the engineers office at this time. I'll follow up tomorrow. >> Um, last meeting that we talked about um Lambert Street foot bridge over the acid. any progress on >> on that?
>> Yeah, I did uh I did talk to the DPW. We are kind of in prime grass cutting season. Uh so we did reach out to a local contractor that's going to give us a price to repair that. Um I don't know. We'll have to talk about the pricing of that. Um you know, that's an option. Otherwise, this could be a project
inhouse for the DPW for next year. Uh so we'll have to see what you know, what our priorities are for that. Um, but we did we are getting a price for that. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> And in the pond hole there was a wall falling over by the St. Mary's Food
Bank. I had sent you pictures about that. >> We did send a notice of violation to >> private wall. >> Yeah, we sent an NOV to Pmpton Smith. That's the owner. >> That's the building that's being right. >> All right. So, that's their property. It's not our >> Yeah, we had S go out and verify it is
their property. We did send an OOV today. Um, we have about two dozen notice of violations out just the past two weeks with property maintenance stuff. So, we've been busy uh with that. >> And I and I Mike didn't mention, but we uh did send our property maintenance
person out. He's going to go out once a week downtown to address the garbage concerns that people have. Um, just, you know, walk around and if you see dumpsters overflowing, report it or write a summons or speak to the owners. So, we're going to start that process. Awesome. Awesome. >> Thank you. We we did write three summons
this week to the to the garbage. Yes. So I won't say who, but you know, he's walking up and down and taking a look. So, >> hey, any questions? >> Um, yeah, one other question. >> Um, you would you had talked about the
attorney had a report on Skyler Avenue, but wait till he comes in. >> Yes. Yes, we do have an update on that. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> He'll give that report. >> Yeah, I'll put it on the uh agenda. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. Thank you. >> I'm just >> No one more questions. >> Okay. No more. >> No. >> As I said, one
>> Oh, no. >> Um, unfortunately, I have to run, but I have another appointment, but uh just I want to remind the public start in July and August, we have one meeting a month for town hall. So, check your calendars when the calendars come out, which will be out by June 30th. So, I know we've been getting a lot of calls in Burough
Hall and to myself about when's the calendar coming out, when's the calendar coming out. It will be in your mailbox on June 30th or maybe the 1st, the latest. So, just everybody relax. You'll get your calendar. >> Um, chief, your report. >> So, I'll I'll start off with uh the
council president's uh um questions in regard to >> um the littering uh refuse disposal, sanitation, enforcement. Um so, I prepared a little brief. So, uh, my brief is, uh, going to be intended to provide, uh, the burough council, uh,
with the current littering ordinances, available enforcement mechanisms, our, uh, department responsibilities, and, uh, recommendations regarding ongoing litter sanitation concerns within the downtown district. So, um, as part of your question, the bureau currently
maintains several, uh, ordinances, uh, addressing littering, refuse disposal, and related quality of life concerns. Um the following payable penalties uh are established through the burrow's local supplemental violations bureau schedule.
So first one being sweeping litter onto sidewalks or public places. Um the fine for that is a $50 fine throwing or depositing litter from a vehicle. It's a $100 fine. Uh responsibility of property owner or
occupant to maintain premises free of litter, $100 fine. Uh general littering violations, including uh handills and signs, $75. Littering within burough parks, $50, and
sidewalk and street maintenance violations, uh $50. Um if uh if a police officer uh issues one of these summones uh may require mandatory court appearance uh when the circumstances one. So enforcement
authority. So the following borrow departments possess enforcement authority uh relating to litter refuse dumping and sanitation related violations. as you know, uh the police department, property maintenance office, uh department of
public works, um and other authorized burough officials as provided by the ordinance. But that's that's really what I found like initiative summons. Um, as we get into, you know, the current corrective actions, uh, I just
highlighted, uh, what I'm going to speak about is highlighting what the what the, uh, burough administrator and the mayor had already talked about. Um, so, as you all know, the burrow is currently addressing these concerns through several initiatives. Additional garbage uh, receptacles uh, serve as part of the DPW
three to four times per week. property maintenance inspections which we now have have had. Um we can also uh property maintenance can uh start investigations of illegal dumpling complaints for the police department uh
can also assist with that outreach and education efforts directed toward our businesses and property owners. Uh and uh as we've already heard, they're evaluating larger enclosed garbage receptacles designed uh to reduce the overflow of the dumping.
Um so in your me I think I think you were asking too like what the police department can do. So, you know, as the chief, my recommendation is, you know, while the police department does have enforcement authority, uh, under the burrow's littering ordinances, I believe
what is the most effective and, uh, fiscally responsible approach is for the property maintenance office to serve as the lead agency for uh, recurring litter, dumping, diffuse, or sanitation related complaints um, with support of
the police department and the DPW when appropriate. Um the reasoning for this um uh you know you you know start off with the nature of the complaints. Most of the complaints that we received uh they
involve overflow garbage receptacles, improper uh disposal of dumping uh property new owner uh maintenance issues, commercial uh garbage management and general sanitation concerns.
Uh in my view, these issues are primarily code enforcement and property maintenance matters rather than traditional public safety issues. Um so our property maintenance personnel are, you know, they're specifically tasked with conducting property inspections, compliance investigations, follow-up
inspections and enforcement actions and uh ongoing monitoring andor problem uh locations. Um I would say these functions are a part of their regular operational responsibilities if you go through uh the code. Um so fiscal
considerations you know the property and maintenance personnel perform these duties like we like we spoke about during their normal salary work hours. Uh by comparison, if the police department were to be the lead agency and started issuing these summones, um
uh frequent it would frequently require our court appearances. Um if you're not aware, our officers receive a minimum of 4 hours overtime compensation uh for court appearances occurring outside of their scheduled shifts. So whether they're there for one second or
uh an hour, they get paid four hours. >> Four hours. Um and increased policeled enforcement efforts will also likely result in additional overtime expenditures like I'm explaining and increased cost uh to the bur. Uh then it's our you know I
have a resource consideration police officer currently responsible for patrol operations emergency responses uh criminal investigations uh traffic enforcement school safety functions community policing initiatives and calls for service and uh their
mandatory court appearances. Um I think assigning an officer to routinely monitor uh sanitation uh related issues would necessarily reduce our u available resources for our core
public safety responsibility. So I anticipated some questions that you guys might all have. Right. So can police officers issue a litter in some? Absolutely. um our officers have the full authority to enforce the borrow littering
ordinances and issue summones when the violations are observed or when sufficient evidence exists to identify the responsible party. So if you're asking yourself why aren't more summones being issued. Um so
the primary challenge for us it would be to identify the responsible part. I would say in many cases uh when the litter is discovered, it's discovered after the fact and there's often times insufficient evidence to determine who committed the violations. No different from when uh we're getting called for,
you know, the graffiti that's being put on on our signs and or on our buildings. Um if you ask, is the police department refusing to enforce littering? Absolutely not. So, the police department will continue to enforce littering our littering ordinances when
violations are observed and will support enforcement efforts whenever necessary. Um if you ask why is property maintenance should take the lead. In my view property maintenance are uh uh personnel are specifically assigned to investigate
enforce quality of life sanitation and property maintenance issues and they are better positioned to conduct these inspections, monitor compliance and address recurring violations on an ongoing basis. Um would increased police enforcement
increase costs? So I would say potentially yes. Uh police enforcement action frequently results in court appearances. Court appearances occurring outside an officer's regularly scheduled uh shift will generate uh increased overtime costs under their collective
bargaining agreement. Uh whereas property maintenance p personnel conduct enforcement activities during their regular salary work hours. Um in conclusion um so the burrow already has in their
possession ordinances to enforcement authority and the operational uh framework necessary to address any and all littering concerns. In my view, what we have on the books uh I think uh which
would be what would be most advantageous for the burrow would be a coordinated effort uh ili utilizing property maintenance as the lead enforcement agency uh along with the DPW for sanitation and collection services and the police department uh in supporting enforcement
roles uh uh so that it's it's it's done effectively efficiently and fiscally responsible uh for the burough and for everybody. So, uh you know, I definitely think that we could
uh tackle any task as a group effort. Um and I'm more than um you know, willing to support any and all initiative that the council has. Uh I just think it would be in the best interest to you know, have that property maintenance be
be a lead on this. Uh but as always, we definitely support uh buildings and property maintenance as we always have and we continue to hope I try to answer kind of every question that you had in that in that in the email that you sent, but if anybody has any any questions in
regards to that, I'll be happy to to give you my my best answer. >> Just just for the record, uh Mayor Mike left the building and I will now be >> I'll be presiding over the rest of the meeting. Thank you. Um, thank you, uh, Anthony. You did exactly what I asked
you to do because we've had so many complaints about the the the garbage and the litter and and who's enforcing and whose job is it and is it a is it property maintenance, is it police? Um, you gave a very good explanation of why the how it could be a coordinated
effort, but maybe more on the um property maintenance basically because of costs. >> Yes. And um I just want to does any does I I don't I think the council knew that I was going to send that out, but does anybody have any questions for for Chief? >> I don't have any questions, but I just
want to make a statement. I agree with you 110%. Uh Chief, um for police, if you see an act of littering, somebody throwing something out of a car or something like that or um knocking over garbage cans or knocking over something,
an officer can stop that person. But I mean, if there's just litter on the streets, that's not a police matter. That's a property maintenance matter. >> So, uh, I talked with Michael before and, you know, we're going to have to
sit down with, um, SA Paulo and the property maintenance and, uh, and iron some of these things out. >> Absolutely. And and listen, by no means um is this meant to discourage, you know, our residents or as a council to to to calling the police department and
reporting. If you if you if you see these things, we want you to call us and and let us know. Uh especially illegal dumping, things of that nature. You know, they, you know, they should definitely be calling the police department right away. And then we will we will we can then facilitate and
forward uh some of these complaints under the appropriate departments. But at least we can take a record of it, report of it, and then we can give um property and maintenance um a heads up. We have body cameras and you know it, like I said, it's a coordinated effort.
Um but uh definitely if you if people see stuff, they should definitely still call us and and report it. >> Um one question I did have, I had a resident call me. Um do you guys observe down at Hersfield Park people letting dogs run unleashed? I mean, from what I
understand, that's against the ordinance. >> Yes, it it definitely is. Uh I know um >> I mean passing by and haven't seen it. >> Yeah. So, I would say a lot of times if if our if our officers get a call down there, we will go down there and report
down there if the dog's off leash. Um nine times out of 10, what all officers will do is most likely, you know, tell the resident, "Hey, listen, we have this ordinance in place. you have to put your dog on leash. We've had we've have residents in the park, they they feel uncomfortable or the officer if they
witness it and they're down there, um they should be telling the resident to, you know, place the dog. >> Yeah. You don't necessarily have to give them a summon right off the bat. I mean, >> correct. I I would say typically >> discretion of the officer anyway. >> Correct. And I would say typically nine times out of 10, unless this unless this
individual has been a constant constant uh problem, which we don't have that down there, I can tell you, then most likely we're just telling them, hey, listen, you got to you got to put your dog on a on a thrill while in the park. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Okay. >> Got a couple other things to to just uh
go over. Um so as of this uh as of this morning um the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission uh released a press release in regards to ebike licensing and the registration
program. Um so I just want to go over a few things um so that any any of our residents that are watching uh are being informed. Um, so overview, right? So, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission announced that beginning June 26th of 2026, uh, residents may begin scheduling
appointments to obtain licenses and registrations, uh, that are now required under New Jersey invite law. Riders have until July 19th to comply with this new requirement. So, why this matters to Compton Lakes? So, the burough has seen a significant increase, I would say, in
eBike usage, particularly among juveniles and young adults. Uh complaints continue regarding excessive speed on sidewalks and roadways, unsafe operation in parks and public spaces. Uh riders operating without helmets, near
misses involving pedestrians and motor vehicles. Um the state now has created uh a system to identify riders and hold operators accountable for violations and reckless behavior. So, the key requirements under
the law uh licensing riders must be at least 15 years old. Individuals uh with the age uh individuals aged 17 and older may operate an ebike, but they must have a valid New Jersey driver's
license. Individuals between the ages of 15 and 16 without a New Jersey driver's license must obtain an ebike motorized bicycle license through motor through the Department of Motor Vehicles registration. So there's now a
registration requirement. All qualifying ebikes must be registered through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Owners must provide proof of ownership and identification that reg uh registration appointments uh
will begin uh on June 26. Again, registration appointments will begin on June 26 and all ebikes are uh required to be reg. So certain higher speed and throttle operated ebikes will require liability
insurance. Uh if it's a standard low-speed pedal assist bicycle, they generally do not require insurance, but still again, they will still require to be they will still be required to be registered.
Deadline uh for this uh for existing riders have until July 19th to become compliant with everything that I just spoke about. Um so the impact on uh our local enforcement. So once registration and licensing requirements are fully
implemented, uh officers will have additional enforcement tools available to them. Uh registered ebikes will provide accountability similar to motor vehicles. The law will assist police departments statewide in addressing
reckless operation, repeat offenders, hitand-run incidents involving ebikes, and then dangerous operation by juveniles and adults. So my recommend my recommendation to our residents um so for any resident who owns an ebike
uh number one determine whether the bicycle falls under the new law. Two uh schedule your motor vehicle appointments as soon as possible cuz I'm sure it's it's going to be uh seem a little hectic down there. Uh gather your proofs of ownership and identification.
ensure any young riders uh in your household are aware of the licensing requirements that are now associated with these with these uh motor vehicles. Um and review helmet and safety requirements before uh the July compliance deadline. Um, and just in closing in regard to
this, so this this is a new state program and it's intended to improve uh safety to accountability and responsible operation of ebikes throughout our state. Um, as ebike usage continues to
increase in Pmpton Lakes, uh, we encourage our residents to become familiar with the new requirements and begin the licensing and registration process as soon as possible. Uh the police department will continue to focus on education first. I will I will repeat that the Palm Lakes Police Department
will continue to focus on education first uh while working with the residents to ensure compliance with the new laws. Um and so again we you know we take safety of our residents and every and even our
motorists very seriously. Um, so anybody that owns these, please please uh do what you need to do and >> I just wanted this is all on our website and it is all our social media that that that report. >> Yeah, the press release that just came out. Uh, yes, it's on our social media.
Uh, 2 put it out there. Um, and it went out it went out through the whole state. >> Great. Okay. >> We haven't put it up on the sign, have we? I have I haven't noticed it on the sign >> on the sign >> on the marquee. >> Yes. >> By the library.
>> Just just so people know to go to the website and read the new uh new laws. >> So I'm curious. They have to have liability insurance. >> Yeah. So if they're high one of the highest speed uh ebikes, they will have to be required to get liability insurance. And
>> that's going to be very interesting because they're going to be able to monopolize that. I mean, you know how a 17-year-old gets licensed, your insurance already goes out by an enormous amount of money. >> If you're talking about liability insurance that they're going to need to carry. If anything, that'd be more of a deterrent for me instead of assuming and
absorbing all that cost now for just driving. You know, you can walk. >> Yeah, you can walk. >> You can walk where you need to go. >> I I think when >> Oh, no. I have no sympathy for my kids. I disconnect the battery and then we go in the garbage real quick. >> I think when mopeds were popular, you had to have insurance.
>> You did. Yeah. So they they yeah they effectively made like the high speed almost like it's like a moped. Everything is like a moped. Uh what this also does is is um >> so when these bikes started becoming popular, you had a lot of individuals that either lost that lost their
licenses would be utilizing these vehicles to get to and from work. So, um you know, it's definitely going to be a big impact for them now because now not only are they requiring uh young people to to have a valid ebike
license, but anybody um anybody that falls between the ages of 17 and older, which is along with our regular licensing, in order to drive these vehicles, you have to have a valid license. So all those now you're you're all those
people that were using that to circumvent losing their license are no longer going to be able to operate these vehicles either. >> Oh yeah, >> that's interesting. >> Oh, >> did not think about that. >> Punishment. >> Yeah, you have to have a valid You have to have a valid New Jersey driver's
license in order to operate this. >> I'm sorry. >> Just another question. So just out of curiosity, so you know, this is going to go into effect after that deadline. I would imagine there's going to be many many uh drivers that are not going to have licenses or insuranceances. So, how is the police department going to handle
obviously are you going to be pulling them over regardless if they're if they're like riding on the sidewalk or an offense occur? >> Yeah. Um so, it'll be just like any other stop that, you know, the officer has to have um a reason to pull them
over. Um, that being said, if we once they establish that, uh, they pull them over and it's it's really going to be a case-by case basis. I sent out an email to the department today in regards to that, uh, stressing that I I want more of the education and, you know, that we
can help, but obviously um, by no means is this is this uh, saying that we're not going to enforce the rules in this state. Um that being said, if if the the kid is driving recklessly and it's to such an extent that we need to take
action, our police department is going to take action. But yes, it would consist of a motor vehicle stop. Uh the officer is going to go on body camera. Um depending on the age of the individual, uh he's going to dictate a little bit how we how we're going to handle it. If we get a, you know, a 9, 10, 11 year old, um, you know, my
officer should be, uh, reaching out to to a parent, uh, and, uh, you know, asking the parent to come to the scene, um, and then depending on what happened, um, it's either going to be a conversation with the parent to educate everybody, maybe they go on their way,
uh, or it could be maybe we're issuing, depending on the incident, we're issuing some to the parent and we're impounding we're impounding that that motor vehicle for not having the proper documents or prop, you know, proper uh license driver. Um, so it just depends on the
vehicle. Um, uh, I I would really like to once these things get more fleshed out, you know, motor vehicle, a car for instance, you know, you're required to to have insurance. Uh, if you don't have insurance, there's certain stipulations
where the driver is uh has a certain time frame to provide that insurance to you. Um, so usually for a car you're issued failure to produce your insurance and then if you don't get those documents for certain time it's it's a failure to have insurance. Um, and
there's significant penalties for that where you can lose your license if you're driving around with no insurance. Um, I would uh >> that was going to be my next question. >> Yeah. So I I don't know if the same penalties are going to apply and then how would that how would that apply if the child is 12 years old driving
without a license and without insurance? uh if he goes to court, is he now going to lose his license when when he's an adult? >> Uh and extend it. I mean, I can tell you I we talked about mopeds. Um but I knew people that did uh you
know, did dumb things on mopeds when they were younger and then but they were like 15, 16, so they didn't get their license when they were 17. They had to wait till they were 18. Um I just don't know how this is going to translate when you have a a 10-year-old or a nineyear-old, right? You know, it's it's
uh it's it's uh it's hard to say where is it going to affect the parents license because ultimately the parents is letting them you know the nine-year-old it's a nine-year-old the parents are letting >> the accountability start. >> Yes. The parents the one that's letting them drive without insurance or without registration. So now does the parent
lose their license? It's almost like um if I our current statute reads right now, if I let uh a person operate my vehicle, it's unregistered, I can issue the summons to the registered
owner as well or you know, so uh we got to see how this flushed out, but it's a lot of things to look at, but ultimately we just want to have our at least, you know, we want to have our residents have all the facts so they can make to make the appropriate decisions and then we can move forward.
uh business as usual and there's hopefully not too much commotion with us and then everybody's safe. >> Thanks chief. >> Thank you chief. Any other questions for the chief? >> Okay, I'm seeing that. Thank you very much for that detailed discussion. Uh we'll go to our workshop now. Uh,
Administrator Carelli, you're going to be doing something on the Connelly and Hickley historical architects for architectural design construction management and inspection services for Compton Lakes Library exterior upgrade project. >> Thank you, Council President. Uh, yes.
So, included in tonight's packet is a proposal from Connelly and Hickey historical architects out of Cranford, New Jersey. Uh so for those of you that may not know, we did receive a federal earmark for the Pompton Lakes Library project from then late Congressman uh
William Pascal uh in the amount of $500,000. We do have $250,000 of P County uh historical preservation trust fund monies for this project as well. Uh so we have $750,000 in grant
funding for this project. Uh the project consists of redoing the parapits uh window lintils and brick facade on the Pmpton Lakes uh public library. Um so part of this project requires
uh a a historical architect to facilitate the architectural plans for the project. Um I wouldn't recommend an architect off the street. I think we had some problems, you know, 15 or so years ago when we had done this project. prior uh
we didn't have a you know a proper architect uh that was known for historical standards and the problem is is that for these types of buildings you have to comply with the secretary of the interior standards uh for for historical
building architecture projects. Uh so we did approach Connelly and Hickeyi. I have worked with them before on other projects and other towns. Um, we have a proposal tonight for architectural services, including bids, bid specifications, final design,
construction, management, and inspection services, and the pre-qualification of biders. Uh, which means that we're looking to pre-qualify historical contractors for this project. You're not going to get bids from, you know, mom and pop construction company. it's going
to be historical firms that are known and qualified to do this type of work. Um, so the proposal is included in your packet as I said before uh for a total uh exterior restoration for the soft cost of 45,900.
Those costs are payable out of the federal grant. The federal grant does allow for soft costs whereas the county does not. Um, so if we were pulling this project together with county funds, we would have to fund the soft costs, but because it's a
federal earmark, they are eligible for funding. Um, so again, the proposal is 45,900. The project is over a million dollars. Um, we are looking at a bid alternate for the roof. So the parapet window
lintils and brick facade was quoted just shy of $500,000 whereas the replacement of the slate roof which was also identified in the site visit as deficient and in need a replacement is just north of 500,000.
So, we are going to go in for an ad alternate for the roof and potentially phase in the roof project over a period of time to be within the amount of available funding at which point we can then apply for additional uh pate county
grants for the rest of the roof. Um so, if there's no questions or concerns, uh we, you know, we'll have the proposal on for adoption at the July 22nd council meeting. >> Any questions on this? just on the uh the brick work is it's all going to be
uh chiseled out and reordered. Is that >> Yeah, it's a full repointing of the building. >> Yes. >> Is the roof in in safe conditions right now to prolong or further um must we have the funding to do the roof?
>> The roof is safe. The library is facing uh water damage issues mainly from the window lintils. There's water leaking in just due to wear and tear and time. Um, but the roof is safe. It was identified as an ad alternate for
a reason. You know, if we have the money, great. If not, it could wait. Um, so we're hoping for maybe a spring construction >> Yeah. As you may know, we got this grant in 2023. We we started the federal environmental
review process in 2024 and it ju it took about a little over two years to get the approval for the environmental review. We had to hire a United States uh HUD consultant that works with the federal government to do these types of reviews
for us. Uh so we're finally in a position that we can move forward with the project. >> Um so you know open for questions or concerns. >> Okay. Thank you. Any other questions for Mike? >> No. >> Very fair. Thank you. Property tax payment method amendment.
>> Thank you. Uh yes. So we were talking with our new chief financial officer, Matthew Kavalo, uh who's just getting into his role. You know, it's been a few months uh here in Pmpton Lakes. We didn't uh want to talk to the governing body cuz ultimately this is a policy
decision of the governing body but we have been for many years running into issues with the acceptance of cash cash payments for tax bills. Um we're running into money counting issues, transferring of monies to the bank, you know, cash
management and handling problems which, you know, we've worked out over the years and there's no concerns today about that. Um but the you know the discussion came up on whether or not we want to accept cash for tax payments. Now we will still accept cash for you
know building permits, fire prevention, recreation, you name it. This would just only be for tax payments. Um and we wanted to note the CF the CFL and I wanted to note that most towns don't accept cash. We are one of the town only
towns that do accept cash. Um, you know, we just read an article today or the other day that the township of Mawa moved to C moved to cashless, Whiteoff, Oakland, um, you know, and so on and so forth. Um, so the recommendation from the CFO
is to move forward with this, but of course it's a policy decision of the governing body. Um, and as a reminder, we do accept a online payments for tax bills as well as bank checks, regular checks, and certified checks. Do you take credit card? >> No, >> no credit card.
>> But we did we did want to point out in tonight's discussion if the governing body would like to look at that, we're willing to do that. Um, however, concerns come up and it's really none of our business, but is it really a good idea to pay your tax bill on a credit
card? But some people do look for the points in all seriousness. Um, so, you know, we kind of worked out that problem with the CFO. Um, but that is something that we would look at if you if you're interested in that. So, AC stands for >> that's a automatic draw from your bank
account. >> Wire transfer. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So, just out of curiosity on the credit card and I want to make sure that this does not occur. There's not going to be a convenience service fee to using that because merchants are charging a lot of money as we all know. You see the sign
you're going to use credit card is 3% more. >> Yeah. So, absolutely. And that merchant fee would discourage that. >> Yeah, that merchant fee would have to be passed on to the resident. >> Um, so that is a negative to the to the process. >> I just don't think we allow credit cards.
>> That's a huge I mean, if you can get a money order and all these other things, why why even do it? >> It sounds like you have multiple payment options for them. So, I don't think credit cards are needed at this point. >> So, you know, the recommendation is to go cashless, but ultimately it's, you know, it's what we feel is best here
tonight. Um, so you know, if you want additional research or comparisons, we're willing to do that, um, and come back, but, uh, I leave it open for discussion. >> I'm all right. >> So, just out of curiosity, let's say we we vote, how long are we looking before we communicate that with the residents
because we want to give them time. >> Yeah. >> Um, obviously, some may not feel so comfortable with the checks, whatever the >> So, what are we looking to have? >> That's a great question. Uh, I would probably look at quarter 4 or quarter 1 of next year. Uh, ju you know, just for
timing, communications, and whatnot. >> Um, we're not looking to do this tomorrow, but great point. >> Thank you. >> When do you want an answer? >> I think we could come back in July and talk about it again. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Anybody? >> That's right. >> That's good. Okay. Can I tell you? I
used to go to the tax office thing with my grandmother in Trenton when I was a kid and she would bring the bags of quarters because she had a grocery store. So, we've really come a long way. Okay. >> We'll we'll come back with a chart a chart of surrounding towns maybe. >> I think I'm going to bring my bag of
quarters from Aliasville just for fun. >> Thank you. >> All right. Any other questions from >> from our council? >> Okay. Thank you. All right. Um Michael, anything else? That's it. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Okay. We're going to open up the meeting for public comment again. Do I have a
motion to open the public meeting for public comment? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Okay. Councilman Beg and second by Councilman Cruz. >> Cruz. All in favor? >> I. >> Okay. Any would like to come up and
speak? Um I saw Al. >> Council, I just had one thing real quick. I forgot. If I can if I >> Oh, yeah. Can I Wait, can you just wait one second? >> Be real quick. I just as for the uh we spoke about raccoon incidents. Yes. >> I just want to let our residents know and if anybody has an animal incident,
raccoon or otherwise rabbit animal, uh please do not wait to call us. Call the police department right away so that we can respond to the report. We can call animal control to come out. couple of incidences that we had. Um we did receive a call but it was after the
resident had already uh received treatment and the incident was was already was already over. So uh I would say the best course of action is for our residents to call us immediately so we can try to identify where that animal is uh and help animal control get it.
>> I did the call. I made your call from my for my neighbor because he was just came home from the hospital. So yes and and that you would have called us before but not have been able to find it sooner. >> I just wanted to let everybody know that. >> All right. Thank good to know. Okay. Thank you, Chief. >> Thank you.
>> Okay. Back to the open session. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. >> Al Evangelist, emergency management coordinator. I came here tonight very excited about the prospect of getting a new vehicle for emergency management. And I came here to thank the mayor and council. So, thank you for your support.
I believe it passed. Did it pass? >> Yes. Oh yeah, thank you. >> During though, >> okay, I've been doing this now. >> I've been doing this for 33 years. >> Started out with a used police car up until the year 2011 the year before
Hurricane Irene. And I got a new brand new car, which is now 15 years old. >> Four-wheel drive Crown Victoria police package vehicle. It was outfitted with lights, sirens, and the necessary
equipment that it needed. I'm very upset with what the remarks that were made tonight, the questioning that was made about the vehicle because this vehicle was proposed due to normal protocol. Okay, we submit a budget request and then we submit capital
outlay requests, which I did. I met with your administrator that you pay to administrate the bureau. That's his job. And I met with him and I explained the vehicle fully to him. And he'll recall, I hope,
that we discussed Tahoe versus Explorer. And I said, I do not want a Tahoe. Did I not say that, Mr. Administrator? Thank you. I don't need a Tahoe. I've always been a very practical person my private life and my public life when it comes to
expenditures. I don't need it. 90% of the time I'm by myself in that vehicle. Okay. It is not a command vehicle. We have other command vehicles in the burrow. We have a command truck that we can use. Okay. But
that is my office. You know it's called the office of emergency management. The car is my office. Just like they say, a police officer's car is his office, patrolman's car. I had no office. I had an office when I started here, but I got pushed out. So, you can drop the office
of because there is no office for me. My car is my office. A lot of people see me in that car all times and hours of the day. They say, "I saw you in the car. You were sitting in the parking lot over here." Yes, because I do have a computer in the car which I use to send out the emergency broadcast messages if
necessary to communicate with the Burough website to draw up the map if I'm out in the field doing a certain project. Okay, so it does have a computer mount. It does have the necessary equipment. Doesn't have all the bells and whistles. Doesn't have the
side running lights that flash all different ways and all different patterns. it has what is necessary and that's the cost of what that is today. What bothers me is that even public forum like this automatically cast doubt
as to whether or not things of that nature are needed. Okay. That's why I sat with the administrator and explained to him I believe Councilman you're the OEM um leas are you not? You have called me a multitude of times in your position
with Shave Tree as a councilman to ask me questions. >> Do a fine job. >> You could have asked me. Thank you. You could have asked me about the car and I would have given you the invoice. I would have given you the print out of what I was getting and what I wasn't getting. I'm not getting a shotgun rack,
although I'd like to. I'm not getting I'm not getting a uh a setup in the back, you know, to run an incident command out of the back of my vehicle. That's not what it's about. I'm a coordinator. Okay. If it's a police matter, that gentleman right there is going to be running the show. If it's a
fire operation, it's going to be that. So, the car is set up for what my needs are. You saw all of you witnessed I was out through that. Oh, by the way, let me say this. Since I got the Crown Vic in 2000 is when I
got the first one and then it was replaced by administrator Veto Galleta in 2011. And the money for that car came from a budget that was put together to buy two five ton vehicles for Widewater Rescue.
And I got two donated for free to this burrow. And the money that we were going to spend on the trucks is what that car that is now 15 years old with 73,000 miles. So do the math. 4,000 m a year. I go to meetings constantly for the county
all over the state of New Jersey. I belong to the Emergency Management Association. I went to the conference in Atlantic City this year. So, you're talking 73,000 miles over 15 years. Do the math. Every single storm event. I used my personal vehicle. I never
submitted for mileage, which some people do. I took my personal vehicle out in that snowstorm that we had this past winter, the worst storm that we've had in 10 years by weather service description. And I didn't say a word. My car, my
first car doesn't have a red light and siren and radio in it. So, my point is I could have been handled better. Okay, I would have explained exactly what I'm getting. I could have documented why I'm getting it, why I need it. I don't buy
bells and whistles just to say bells and whistles. I don't need the dial. The explorer will uh do just fine. So if anybody has any questions of me in regards to my role as emergency management coordinator and every day it
gets busier and busier and it gets more and more uh requirements. The latest requirement now on a second alarm fire they have to dispatch the emergency management coordinator to the scene to take care of those OB uh those requests equipment requests that may not be fire
related. Could be Salvation Army, could be American Red Cross, could be heavy equipment, could be whatever. >> So what I'm trying to say is that you >> we're we we understand what you're Yes. Okay. And five minutes or anything. So I would >> Well, can you consider this a
professional report because that's what I'm >> If somebody wants to give you another five minutes, I would >> Yeah. Okay. 10. >> So I don't need 10. I'll take the five. >> Thank you. Thank you. So my point is the requirements get more and more every
day. Okay? And I have no problem with that. I enjoy that. I I take it on as a challenge. I would tend to say we have one of the best OEM organizations, not just because of me, but because of all the participants and our partners >> we do >> in the county without a doubt. And the
county will tell you that. >> Started the search team in 2006. Started the teen team. Started a ham radio group. Now, with the Boy Scouts last week, we're trying to get them in. We have 13 herz certified ham radio operators. So, we're growing. We're
getting bigger. We're getting better. And that's what it's all about to make sure that we have the equipment that we need to do the job. So, I thank you again for that. Again, anytime you have questions about anything, please call me. And I do have radio equipment in there. All right. Just four different
radios that have to be transferred. All of that is in this bill. By the way, let me just end with this. I ran into this vendor at the Emergency Preparedness Association conference. They actually can cut costs because they do both. They sell the vehicle there, and they do the outfitting right there.
There's no one vendor here, one vendor there. So, they give us a great price. As a matter of fact, I got two other prices from Ford dealers, and they did not match the price that we got from this place. That, by the way, after a June cut off, you cannot get the Ford Explorer anymore. They stop producing
them in June of each year. So, this particular vendor had them in stock on the lot ready to go. That's one of the reasons we went in that direction and then they come through with the upfitting price which pretty much would have been the same if not more with any vendor up here. And I believe that chief
you had to wait how long to get your car after it went to the upfitter when your car came in. >> Wait. Yeah. Wait. It was over 6 months. >> Over 6 months. >> Not using. >> So that car sat there. All right. He depreciated for 7 months. 6 months while we were waiting to upit. This car is
going to be delivered. By the way, I was going to go down and pick it up. The guys that we deliver. So, they're going to deliver it fully equipped, ready to go. So, thank you very much. I appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Would anybody else like to speak? >> Paul wanted to call.
>> Mhm. >> Okay. >> Paul 120 Roma. first uh the comment on the uh the garbage cans. When I first heard this, it was like futuristic to me that you have trash compactors on the street and the first thing I thought to
myself was how do how do they get powered? And I found out that they're solar powered, which is really incredible. >> I don't know. I just thought it was a great idea. Um, the real reason I'm up here is that as part of the historical commission uh here in town, I attended yesterday a forum of the Pay County
Tourism Board, which I didn't even know existed. Um, I don't know if everyone knows we have a Pay County forum uh tourism forum, but there's like a handful of full-time employees over there. And what they were pushing is um
more uh notice uh to the public of of tourism opportunities here here in uh here in Posea County. Um this was held at and I've been by this place a million times and you probably have too and may not even know what it was. It's called the Paya County Arts
Center. Uh the John Ray House on Gothal Avenue on Gothal Road in Hawthorne. uh no big sign or anything but anyway there was about half a dozen people there from different towns from uh Patterson from uh Hawthorne from Clifton. Uh but
anyway, again, they were pushing tourism and I kept thinking that, you know, here in Pmpton Lakes, we have a lot of events that um are well attended and that we advertise them on probably pumped, perfectly pumped, but um we can also
contact uh the folks at the Pa County Tourism Board and have our events put on their website, which will uh broadcast it to whoever happens to watch U so things like uh the Pompton day uh
the holiday stolen and any of the other things that that we have ought to be um someone ought to be able to tell uh the P County forum about this so that we can get those things added to the to the P County um website to advertise. I mean
our our the stuff we have here is well attended but if we get the word out I think we we can increase our uh our attendance at these events which will benefit us because we'll get you know more people spending more money more vendors uh more food vendors etc. So uh
uh again I didn't even know that there was such a thing as the Pay County Tourism Forum and I found it pretty fascinating. It was poorly attended. I think there were only about seven or eight of us there, but uh for once I was able to to go on behalf of of Pompton Lakes as a member of the historical commission. So, it was an interesting
forum and they're going to have them periodically throughout the uh throughout the year and and I will make it a point that uh to go and if I can't somebody else from the the board will go. But, u just to let everybody know if you have or you're in charge of an event, um if you can get in touch with the P County Tourism Forum, I don't know
the names. I left the business cards at home, but if you if you look up the website, I'm sure the names u will appear there. The one gentleman was named John Carlo. That's I could remember his last name. >> Do you know who that is? >> Yes, John Carlo. Okay. He's in charge of the econ >> I'm sorry >> the economics
county. >> Okay. But he was one of the one of he was the main speaker there. So just thought I'd bring that up so we can get the word out better and increase our attendance and uh and some of our events. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Fellow. Any other any other speaker?
>> Dave, would you like to come up? >> We're not extending your time. Just to let you know the clock at corn 75 Hill Road. >> Uh, two things about the uh garbage
compactors. Uh, yeah. Are they for whoever that wants them in town or is it just for businesses only or or or how's that? and
and also uh going to along with that then then Randy mentioned garbage collections then maybe four times a week but why four cuz everyone's used two
and plus also one for for uh when comes the leaf season like around Halloween till first week of December. So she got one garbage collection the week. So I could
see that and and also uh along with most of you and and myself and we were all at the uh the uh bridge opening and and
the bridge looks great and much needed. And Bobby, congratulations to Lara for her graduation. >> Little one, >> huh? >> Chloe's the little one. She's >> Oh, Chloe. >> But thank you,
>> Chloe. Chloe's one. Yeah. So, senior next year. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Have fun next year. And also, um uh
uh let's see. Uh the mayor forgot to mention that that this Saturday is the uh pride event at the library lawn. So sorry. So so luckily I caught that
and um let's see what else. and and and Stephen, I'm surprised you turned down the Grateful Dead tribute show at the Stone Pony Fourth of July. And Scott, you could have answered your phone cuz
maybe your wife might have been asking, "You want to go Mets game this weekend?" You might not want to go to the Mets Village game after this weekend. >> Oh, of course. It's her birthday. You could have taken her
and and Chief, I'll keep my eyes open for for any of the uh the uh for anyone throwing trash out the windows or stab like that. >> Block commander. >> Huh? blocker.
>> Okay. And uh and also you were mentioning mopeds. So So that goes way before you and dance. So
that goes back to my time. You know about them. >> Even though you know everything. >> An expert on >> you are. Dave, Dave, you have one minute, Dave, and address your address your comments to here. Okay.
>> All right. And uh I think that's it from me. >> Thank you. Any anyone else like to address the council? >> Seeing no one, do I have a motion to close the meeting? >> Second.
>> Okay. Councilman uh Hinton and second by Councilman. stealing my >> Okay. Uh, I'll just answer very quickly. Um, regarding the Alivangelista and the
vehicle that we purchased for him, Mike, is there a difference in the two cars? I I didn't know there was a difference. I don't think that was in any way a a slight to to uh Mr. Evangelist. I didn't think it was a slight when we talked about it. I I just thought it was a
simple question. But um Al does an amazing job for us for the OEM. I'll just say that I think I speak on everybody's to say that on everybody's behalf and I think the choice of car was something that we decided that this is what we wanted to buy because this is what was necessary and the money was
allocated. So therefore I don't think it was in it was in any way a slight in any way. >> Can I make a comment on that? >> Um let me let me let me let me you can do that under uh the privilege of the floor. >> Okay. And then uh Mr. Bulby. Yes, the
when I think of these trash cans, I think of the Jetsons. We are definitely living the Jetson's life right now. It's all amazing that these things are going to be operated solar. Um but I I think many of the uh cities have these. Um they were highly recommended. So I think
what be interesting to see I hope it works. It's a it is a lot of money. And as far as the historical and the tourism um board, that's been around a little while. I' I've seen that, but I think it's a very good idea that you that you suggested that we contact them when we
have like our summer our summer walks and ask the POA County folks to support our our initiatives as well. So, I I I think that's a great idea. Maybe you can come back at the next meeting or so and just let us know how you make out. If
you have a name for the um I guess is a director, let us know who that is. >> I just didn't remember who they >> Yeah, it's all on their website, I'm sure. But thank you for bringing that up. And um Dave, um Mr. Farick, uh
again, thank you very much for all your comments. And if you if you do see somebody uh throwing some junk out the the vehicle window, please kindly let our chief know. He said he would be able to do something about that.
>> Okay. Um Okay. So, with that said, uh do we do have now privilege of the floor? Would anybody like to address privilege of the floor? Councilman Hinton. >> Yes. So, I just want to say that um you know, seeing our resolutions, I just had
a question. I could have called Michael earlier and asked him about that, but um I feel comfortable here to ask him those questions. Um OEM director Alivangelista does a hell of a job and he's been doing a hell of a job for a lot of years. I
trust him 110%. >> Um it was just a question for me on um the upfit of the vehicles. >> Okay. Um, I didn't realize how much those things cost and that's all I was asking about. Um, I know uh OEM director
Evangelista is as frugal as he can be and uh but if we could have got him a shotgun rack uh chief, maybe we could have added that >> that would. >> But no, I just I wasn't out to cause any issues. >> I guess it was just question from
finance. I guess every question always has a, you know, >> well, yeah, sometimes that happens. >> Okay, >> we'll get we'll get past them. >> Okay, thank you. >> Thank you. >> All right. Uh, do I have a motion to adjurnn to go into executive session? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Okay. Councilman Beg, second by
Councilman Sanders. All in favor? >> I. >> Okay. Thank you, everyone. >> I got it. You got it. >> Yeah. Oh, all right. It was good, Liz. You didn't have to help him this time.
>> Nothing. trying to keep >> okay list. >> Yeah. >> All right. So, we we spoke about um negotiated contracts and a pending and anticipated litigation
and anything else. >> Have the um in close session >> in close session and and >> and the radio station >> contract negotiation radio station. >> I believe that's what we discussed. Correct. >> Correct. >> Okay. Thank you, attorney.
All right. I'd like to have a motion to adjurnn. >> Motion. Second. >> Councilman Cruz, Councilman Hinton. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? >> Okay. Good night, everyone. I was right on you.