Okay, stop talking. >> I'm gonna do >> you cry. >> Yes. >> Here comes Greg. >> Good evening, everybody. Hi, Greg. Welcome. This meeting is being held in accordance
with the Open Public Meetings Act. Adequate notice. This meeting has been published in the bureau's official newspapers and posted in the municipal building and on the bureau's website as permitted by the open public meetings act. This meeting is being held in person and broadcast online via Zoom video meetings. The option to attend via
Zoom is a courtesy. If Zoom becomes unavailable, cannot be fixed. The council will continue in person only. For those joining us via Zoom, please raise your hand during designated times to be recognized for a comment. Whether you're appearing in person or via Zoom, you must provide your name to be
recognized. Pledge of Allegiance, please. Please rise to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
>> Roll call, please. Mary. >> Council member Bonitakis. Council member Facy Blackwood >> here. >> Council member Forest >> present. >> Council member Janone >> here. Council member Yuro >> here. >> Deputy Mayor Trigiano here. And Mayor
Portman. >> I am here. All right. Let me go through my proclamations. First up, we have uh Women's History Month. Whereas in this pivotal moment of history, we are called to confront a
range of overlapping global challenges. climate change, economic insecurity, healthcare disparities, and threats to democratic participation. These issues are deeply intertwined, and women particularly from marginalized communities often experience their impacts most acutely. And whereas the
National Women's History Alliance, which creates and promotes n national women's history month each March, has announced leading the change, women shaping a sustainable future as the 2026 theme. And whereas leading the change, women shaping a sustainable future expands our
understanding of sustainability beyond just environmental concerns. It encompasses financial sustainability, community resilience, leadership succession, and intergenerational equity. Whether developing green technologies, advancing economic
justice, strengthening education systems, or building civic power, women are designing blueprints for sustainable transformation. The theme affirms that shaping a sustainable future means fostering systems that support both people and the planet. And whereas the goals and
objectives are to honor, celebrate the diverse contributions of women who are leading sustainability efforts across environmental, economic, educational, and social justice movements. Educate, raise awareness about the important historical and contemporary roles of
women in shaping sustainable change. Inspire, empower individuals and institutions on how to take action towards sustainability, equity, and justice in their own spheres of influence. Connect. Build bridges across generations, geographies, and disciplines to foster collaboration,
mentorship, and shared learning. Envision. Encourage a long-term vision for our future where women's leadership is central to thriving communities and a healthy planet. Now therefore, I, William Portman, mayor of the Burough Redbank, to hereby proclaim and observe March as designated as Women's History
Month. >> I have uh Randy Moore here. Randy, you want to come up and and accept this? Hold on. It's this one. I'm going to also ask um all of our female council members to to join us for a photo with Randy.
>> Our female majority council members. Okay. America something pretty up. Big teeth. Uh we have one more uh proclamation. This is for colurectal cancer awareness
month. Whereas colurectal cancer is preventable, treatable and the leading cancer killer of people under 50 according to fight CRC, ACG and the American Cancer Society. Whereas colurectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented with
timely screening. But one in three eligible Americans are not up to date on screening. Whereas American Indian, Alaskan natives, and black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with colorctal cancer and more likely to die from the disease than other groups. Whereas Hispanic Latino adults aged 45
to 75 are 15% less likely to receive recommended colo rectal cancer screenings compared to the general US population often resulting in later more advanced diagnosis. Whereas observing a colorectal cancer awareness month during the month of March would provide a special
opportunity to increase awareness and offer education on the importance of early detection and screening of colorectal cancer. Therefore, now, now, therefore, I, William Portman, mayor of the Burough of Redbank, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as colarctal cancer
awareness month. >> And of course, we have Lonnie here to uh w with with friends. All right. >> Speech. Speech. >> Of course. >> You want to um do me a favor. If you
want to say a few things, just come up to any one of the microphones. They should all be working. and uh educate us. Is the You might have to hit the little button there at the bottom. >> Is the button on? >> You don't have to hold it. You just touch it
>> now. Oh, hey. Um everything you said was true and and it's the second leading cause of cancer death across the board in this country and lung cancer being number one. But unlike lung cancer, the majority of
them are preventable. Um, it's one of those things where if you get testing found to have a polip and have it removed, you prevent cancer to begin with. It's one thing to screen people and find something early. It's another thing entirely to get screened and find something and prevent it to
begin with. Um, if I'm sure a lot of people here have been through colonoscopy and I know it's not everybody's favorite test. Um, and it's not it it is a real procedure with real risk, but that risk overall is low and your lifetime risk of colon
cancer far outweighs that risk. So, I encourage everybody to do it. You may have seen the, you know, there's non-invasive testing. Everybody knows Colog Guard, the talking box, and I think Patrick Dempsey is now doing commercials for that blood test. Um, I would merely say, I mean, I do
colonoscopies for a living, so I'm a little bit biased, but I would say doing something is better than nothing, >> but colonoscopy is unequivocally the best test. And I would encourage people to do that one rather than non-invasive screening. >> Um, but again, do something other than
nothing. >> I'm due. I scheduling now. >> I promise. >> It's a little reminder. >> Yes, the reminders help. >> Thank you guys for the proclamation. That's much appreciated. >> Yes. And hold on, we'll come to a picture, but Bonnie, you want to tell us about some of the You want to do it
right in the mic just so the people at home can hear you? >> Okay. Thank you. So, um, we support two nonprofits and we have a local, um, New Jersey seed program with the VNA and we have English and Spanish, um, uh, flyers
here with with a phone number. Uh so if I don't know if you have a place that might be you know well served to keep these things but people can call um and they can get uh the underinsured and the uninsured can get a free colonoscopy
prostate exam mamogram and it's all through the VNA health group and the New Jersey seed which is a cancer education. So we participate with that and that's awesome. Um, and then I'll just leave a few unbranded like
information flyers here. So, okay, >> great. Thank you. >> Can we get a quick picture? >> Sure. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Hi. Thank you for coming. Thanks for coming.
I'm going to push my doctor and see if I really should do the bucket or the real test. >> Oh, yeah. Go ahead. >> Right. >> And by the way, I just want to add I just found out I I hang out at the Y with Bonnie's son. I didn't even know
it. We're Y buddies. >> Huh. Oh, nice. Such a proud mama. >> Councilwoman Blackwood, it was good of you to note that we have a female
majority on our council as only 30% of electeds in New Jersey are women even though we make up 51% of the population. Um, I just wanted to add to the celebration of Women's History Month and
specifically to Brandy Moore, uh, who came to accept the proclamation. Um, we're so fortunate to have her as a Redbank resident. Um, and I just wanted to share, uh, some of the reasons why,
uh, we had her accept the proclamation. Um, excuse me for reading. Uh, but Randy Moore has built a career shaping affordable housing policy and solutions across New Jersey and today leads that work as CEO of the Affordable Housing Alliance in Mammoth County. Randy serves
on the board of the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey and as the chair of the Mammoth County Homeless Systems Collaborative. Randy has never lost sight of what drives her work, the belief that everyone everywhere deserves a safe and affordable place to live. Um, and that's
the truth. Um, anybody who spends um, just a little bit of time with Randy knows that that's what drives her. You can't hang out with her and not speak about her passion. And, um, we share that in common. Uh, one of my favorite
stories that she shared about me was saving the RV homes. Um, and how far she had to go to do that, uh, to get special licensing. uh because you can't manage an RV home without having certain
licensing. And she said, "Well, then I'm going to I'm going to do that. I'm going to get that licensing to manage an RV park um to save it and to save these people's homes." Um I just think that your creativity, your ingenuity, um the
fact that you never give up and the fact that you realize how much people really value their homes is really special. So, thank you and I'm really grateful that you live in our town. So, >> yay. >> Bonnie, real quick, what was the the
doctor's name again? Eric Essinger. You got that? Thank you. >> Thank you, Kate. Um, can I have a motion to open the floor for public comment on agenda items only? I'll make such a motion, Mr.
>> Thank you, Ben. Can I have a second? Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Anyone have any comments on agenda items only? Anyone online? >> Can I have a motion to close the public comment for agenda items only?
>> So moved. >> I have a second. >> I'll second that. >> All in favor? >> I. Can I have a motion to approve the minutes from 226 2026? I have a second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I.
>> And the ordinances. This is a final reading and public hearing for 2026-05 entitled an ordinance repealing chapter 562 sidewalk cafes and restaurants and adopting new chapter 475 outdoor business extensions to adopt uniform
regulations and fees pertaining to outdoor business extensions. This ordinance was introduced on February 22nd February 26, 2026. Can I have a motion to open the floor for public comment on this ordinance only? >> So moved. I have a second. >> I'll second it.
>> All in favor? >> I >> just Pat, Randy, any comment? Anyone on the line, Jim? All right. Can I have a motion to close the public comment on this ordinance only? >> So moved.
>> Can I have a motion to approve uh ordinance 2020? >> Second. I'll second. >> I'm sorry. All in favor? >> I. >> All right. Can I have a motion uh to approve ordinance 2026-05 on final reading and adopt? >> I'll make that motion. >> Can I have a second?
>> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Council member Bonitakis, >> yes. >> Council member Facy Blackwood, >> yes. >> Council member Forest, >> yes. >> Council member Janone, >> yes. >> Council member Yuro, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Trianiano, >> yes. >> And Mayor Portman.
>> Yes. Next up is an introduction for 2026-06 entitled an ordinance of the Burough Redbank County of Mama State of New Jersey amending chapter 490 planning and development regulation relating to
section 118 outdoor storage materials. Um, can I have a motion to approve this on introduction? >> I'll make that motion. >> Thank you. Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Roll call, please.
Council member Bonitakis, >> yes. >> Council member Facy Blackwood, >> yes. >> Council member Forest, >> yes. >> Council member Jon, >> yes. >> Council member Euro, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Trigiano, >> yes. >> And Mayor Portman, >> yes. Public hearing for this ordinance
will be held on March 26th, 2026. One more introduction for 2026-07 entitled an ordinance adopting NW chapter 999 passport services to establish fees for US passport services
provided by the burough clerk. Can I have a motion to approve 2026-07 on introduction? >> Yes. >> I have a second. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Council member Von Takis. >> Yes. >> Council member Facy Blackwood.
Yes. >> Council member Forest. >> Yes. >> Council member Janome. >> Yes. >> Council member Yuro. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Trigiano. >> Yes. >> And Mayor Portman. >> Yes. >> Public hearing on this ordinance will be held on March 26th, 2026.
Um resolutions. Everyone good with these? You want to take a quick sec to take a look or can we do them on the consent agenda? We good? >> Right. >> Can I have a motion to approve resolutions 26-59 through 26-67 under the consent agenda?
>> So moved. >> Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Council member Bonitakis, >> yes. >> Council member Facy Blackwood, >> yes. >> Council member Forest, >> yes. >> Council member Jano, >> yes. Council member Euro. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Triiano. >> Yes. >> And Mayor Portman.
>> Hey Scott, would you do me a favor? Will you just hit the button on that microphone? I think it might be feeding back a little bit. Thank you. Is there a button? No. >> Yeah, there is. >> There we go. Thank you.
You can tell the warm weather is coming. Oh, yeah. Do we already do it? Yes. Oh, yes. Yes. Sorry. Thought I did that already. Um, we can tell the warm weather is coming and people are excited because we have this massive list of proposed events
coming up uh here in Redbank. I'll just roll through them real quick. A special event for Monta Verde on Sunday, April 19th from 12 to at 12:00 noon pending additional event details from the special events committee. The Red Bank
ride out. This is coming my favorite event. Um, what was that kid's name? Ry Ry Ryland. >> Ryland. Yeah, he put it uh what was he like 10, I think. Put the whole thing together. 11. >> Yeah. Amazing. Um so he's proposing the
event for Saturday, May 9th, 11:00 a.m. to 2 with a rain date of Sunday, May 10th. Um we have dog days happening. Um is it going to be Riverside Gardens and Marine Park? I don't know. Marine Park. All right, good. >> That's what we're changing. >> All right, good. Changing it to Marine Park. That'll be on Saturday, September
19th from 12 to 4 with a rain date of the 20th. Uh, Recover Revolution is um having an event, a community- based event at Riverside Gardens Park on Sunday, June 14th. It's a a nice organization. Uh, my
friend Robbie, Childhood Friend, uh, runs that. So, um, yeah, come out to that one. And the Jazz Arts Project at Triumph Brewery. Is this along with the classic car show or they're hosting the classic car show? >> This is along with their gallow that's
going to be indoors, but they had to notate that just for traffic safety that they're going to be having classic cars because they're having like a Havana theme. >> Gotcha. Nice. >> So, that's uh on Wednesday, April 29th um at Triumph Brewery along with the
classic car show. and the organizers requesting street closure for 6:00 to 8:00 PM classic cars and anformational tent. Very nice. Um there's a graduation afterparty at East Side Park on Friday, June 12th from 11:30 to 2:30.
Um Master Montasauri Academy will hold their graduation prior at the Count Basy. The organizer is planning this as an afterparty with a food truck to be decided. Uh it'll be the crop walk on Sunday, October 18th and Parks and Wreck
is doing Pride in the Park at Riverside Gardens Park on June 6th and uh rain date of June 13th. And the Junth celebration at Johnny Jazz Park will be Sunday, June 21st with a rain date of Sunday, June 28th. And that event will
be from 12 to 4. Any questions on any of that team? >> Can I have a motion to open the floor for public comment? >> Some moved. >> Can I have a second? >> I'll second that. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> Randy, you want to opine on Women's
Month? Oh, wow. Nice. >> On something. >> Thanks. >> Just Yeah. Hit the button. >> No, I think I will just say thank you and that uh >> got to state your name and address. Randy Moore uh 52 West Sunset of
Redbank. I will say that it is so wonderful to live in a town uh with majority women council and a town that really supports affordable housing, believes in it. One of the towns I think that was first out front accepting affordable housing plan stayed around because there was some stuff on the agenda that you're adopting the
affordability plan uh assistance program which is wonderful. Um curious who's running all of those uh programs and how you get the word out about that because I know there is a big need for rehab as well. Um, so that's great. And, um, we'll also share because I'm saying this everywhere I go lately that, uh, we got
the, uh, governor's budget yesterday and, uh, it does not fully fund the affordable housing trust fund. It, it really funds it at a much lower level than it was even funded at last year. Last year it was fully gutted. >> Um, and so when you look at how the different diversions are going, there'll only be about 30 million available for
affordable housing development throughout the state. Um, that's the main source of funding for small affordable housing development. 100% of affordable projects in our communities. Um that fit really well into places like Redbank. Um and so it really should be
funded about 130 million. So I would just ask you to look at that and maybe uh possibly pass a resolution or something encouraging the governor to to fully fund that. I will say uh our senator Gopal and assembly women have both uh sponsored a bill that would
support it um and a dedicated funding source for it, but we just want to make sure that that goes forward. Leave it at that. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> What did you say it's sitting at right now? I know they fully gutted it and drained it last year. >> They did. They found about 45 million last year. Our organization was lucky
enough to get an award for a project in a different town, but so many of my colleagues were not able to to get awards. So, there's a lot of projects hinging on that. Um I think it's about third it was announced in the budget at 70 million, but about 40 of that is funding um a state rental assistance program. Um, and so it really only
leaves about 30 million for development, which is hardly it's a drop in the bucket. >> Okay. So, yeah, it's already 40 million allocated to a rental assistance program. So, there's only 30 million for development in the whole state in the state budget this year. >> We know it's a tough year. We know it's a tough budget year. I know we fully understand all of that, but at a time
when we know there's an incredible housing crisis, it this isn't the place to be cutting. >> So, so there is a bill that they're introducing. Um, >> there is a bill that's that's pending. It it basically takes part of the millionaire tax and dedicates it to the affordable housing trust fund. >> Okay. >> So, and I can share more information.
>> Oh, that'd be great. Yeah. Thanks. >> Should have come prepared. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> So, let me just I just this I just this is what funds fully affordably because you know I get requests, Ben, why don't you do why don't the town does 100% affordable housing and this is what we would use.
>> This is one of the main sources that you would use to do projects under 25 units. Yeah. And one project could be millions of dollars of that 30 million, right? >> Yeah. >> Yep. >> That's really tiny. >> It's nothing. It's statewide and it's Yeah. Yep. >> Yep.
>> So, thank you. >> Anyone on the line, Jim? >> No, sir. >> I have a motion to close the public comment. >> I make such a motion, Mr. >> Can I have a second? >> Second. All in favor? >> Christine, you got anything to report?
>> Yeah, I'll jump in. Um, just want to note, uh, it was really a privilege to attend this past weekend the New Jersey bike and walk summit with Councilwoman Nancy Facy Blackwood. Um, >> we had >> I never know. It's different. These are
new. They're new. Um, not only did we have a a great time and learned a lot, it's summits like these help us understand what other municipalities are seeing, thinking, get inspired, great ideas. Um, happy to say that we we did those things, but also it made me feel
pretty good about where we stand. Um, I think we have a long way to go in implementation for bike and pedestrian safety and increasing uh active transportation in our town, but the fact that we have a complete uh and green streets committee that that committee is
moving forward on a vision zero plan are really big steps. So made me all the more excited for that. Um also learned a little bit about how other towns and stakeholders are seeing the recent uh legislation uh at the state level which
is basically the strictest in the nation around ebikes. Um and that there are already uh there's work in motion to see if it's possible to amend that to a more reasonable law that better accounts for uh different types of stakeholders,
people with disabilities um that are really going to be restricted and hopefully uh undoing some of the confusion that that law has created. And I know uh the counciloman has also spoken about that, but uh we've agreed and and the council agrees that we are
in favor of rationalizing that law. So, um, great event. Uh, just wanted to note it here. Thank you. >> Thank you, Ben. Ben Ben Why? Ben the Younger. >> Yeah, nothing uh too crazy today, but uh
it was certainly nice to have a couple beautiful days in Redbank um before it started snowing again. Um town was really buzzing. A lot of people eating outside, which you know, makes me really think how good Broadwalk is going to be this year. Um, I think it's gonna
impress both the fans and the naysayers. There's a lot of collaboration and planning going on in the background. Um, we're really excited about it. I think it's going to be really good for the residents and um, you know, visitors alike, and it's important to compete. There's so much competition in our area,
New Jersey in general, and there's no reason why we shouldn't be at the forefront of um, you know, what drives people into our downtown, the core of Broadwalk. And it's not a big town, you know, it pushes people all throughout town. Um, so really excited about it and more to come. Thanks.
>> Thank you, Nancy. >> Sure. Um, I want to echo everything that Christina said regarding the bikewalk conference. I want to thank you very much for allowing us to go. We did get a wealth of information and it was good to see that we are on the right track doing
the right things. So, um, that part was great. I would also like to thank the police and fire police for being out there today with the incident with the broken um power line down. >> I want to thank you for being out there today.
>> I know. And it started snowing like that, >> but it was all good. Um so I am very grateful for that. And there's a reminder that the environmental commission green team is having their sustainable yard um event.
It's going to be a series talking about what you can do to make your yards more sustainable. Use um gas-free equipment. Um rakes are very popular. They should be coming back in style. And um that's going to be on the 24th at 6 um I want
to say at 6:30 or 6 at the Redbank Public Library. check their calendar and also check the red bank environmental commission page for um information about that event and also uh in about a month the green team EC green team will be
having their green fair as well. So we invite you to come forward look at the people that we have bringing in their tables to showcase their goods as well as um seeing the wonderful things that the um middle school kids were doing. I
understand there's a trash show that's on the way and they put up these amazing presentations about sustainability. So, it is worth worth it for you to come in to look and mayor. That's all I have. Thank you. >> And the elder.
>> Okay. Um thing from really parks and wreck. You already mentioned those. You already mentioned the parks and wreck things. Um, I'm so glad that the burrow is organizing an event for Eth Blake, our 108-year-old. Um, she's, you know, I
think I've been to like five of her birthdays over the years at the senior center. So, she's definitely a Red Bank legend. Um, so great job, uh, all of you for doing that. And, um, I'll be, I think, at a service tomorrow. Um
I I'm always touched by when the topic of housing comes up here because um probably I don't know if it's number one. It's one of two things that I hear probably the most about. I hear it at the senior center when we have office hours and Nancy and Laura and I do
office hours. I hear it all the time, you know, and I, you know, and I get yelled at about, well, man, you can't do any pilots or anything to help that. and you know it's not fair to us and you know it's just it is such an incredible issue for this whole nation and it's
right here. You know my kids can't find a place to live in Red Bank. A lot of people can't find places to live anywhere in New Jersey. It's very difficult and I'm so glad that you're here and you do that every day fighting for that. And it's the American dream.
It's all, you know, it's just incredible that we have neglected and allowed this situation to happen. And um I get commentary that's just unbelievable. Why don't we just have single family houses, Ben? Well, because they're 1.2 million on the west side, you know, now um and
we have to find a way to make housing happen. You can't have everybody crashing and just filling all of our homes. you know, people need their own lives and it is powerful. Um, and it is a big issue for
us cuz, you know, um, we have to make decisions and compromises to try to accommodate those. But I know folks who live in some of those 20% affordable units that we have around town. There's not enough of them, of course, but it's life and death for them. Life and death.
And, you know, and I get very dismissive comments on a regular basis. Well, it doesn't really mean the 20% whatever it is doesn't mean that much. It does to the families and mother and daughter that I know live in one of those and I they really don't know where else they
would live if we didn't do this. Um so, thank you. Um that's all I got. Mayor. All right. Laura, >> hi. Um Mayor Wellsn Wellness had an event on Wednesday at the senior center.
It was um at 11:15 Dr. Kunus um a great cardiologist. She's retired cardiologist, but she volunteers at the Parker Clinic. She did a talk on cardiac health and the blue zone, which was very very interesting. Um unfortunately, we
the slides weren't working because she didn't bring her like a just thing to hook into our thing, but she's going to share them with us. It was very wellreceived. There were a lot of people there because it's bing go day. So, it was good. Um, that was the one thing that we did this week. And then Patty
White was in the audience. She's a nurse practitioner who retired from Mammoth Medical. A lot of you guys know her and from town. She uh picked out a date. I'm pretty sure it's May 6th. She listened to the talk and she's going to use the blue zone and work that into women's
health talk in May 6th at the student center. Same day Wednesday. Um during that time a lot of questions and it was very wellreceived. She was very impressed too. Dr. I took her on a tour of our senior center. She was very impressed with it. She took her to all the different rooms. She met Ben and
Nancy and uh so all the different rooms we have. She said, "Oh, I might join." So she works on the Parker Clinic every Monday. She sees patients there. Um also with Mayor's Wellness, we're having a Mammoth County Mayor's Wellness this Wednesday when we normally have our
Zoom. We're going to have a Zoom with all the towns in Mammoth County, their me mayor's wellness committee on Zoom. So, um I think those are the things that are coming up with them. We have a few other things coming after after May, but I'll bring them up at another time. Um
library, they're having uh sustainable yards. That's part of the animal welfare and um environmental group are having sustainable yards talk besides their regular talks on May 24th from 6:30 to 7:30. Mary Warner from the animal
welfare and um a couple of other people are involved with that. So that's a talk at the library plus everything else that goes on at the library there. Um animal welfare read um this week. We are we talked a lot about dog days which we
just said it's going to be marine park and we have the rain date all set up and then the opening of Broadwalk. We're very excited. The first night of the opening Broadwalk, we're going to have first day during that Saturday, we're going to have uh PE uh Louis Legacy
there to adopt dogs and cats. We're going to have chickens there. Uh there's a lot of things that some of the restaurants are working with us um to make their menu um have some recipes that um have dog things in them and their scarfves and stuff like that. So,
oh, we're having the Picasso art that we had last year for the dogs. Lots of activities. So, that's coming up. Um, I met with Jim and I think Jim's going to meet with um our leadership Paul and TJ about some issues that we had with the Mammoth County SPCA that were brought
up. Uh, I think Oh, we're having our rabbi clinic on May 2nd. I want to keep it's free rabbi shots for cats and dogs and it'll be at the first aid on Spring Street and that's from 9 to 12 on May 2nd. It's a Saturday
and Nancy and I I'm going to plug for the parks and wreck because there's yoga and Zumba for seniors that Nancy and I go to. We just came from it like we got a good workout. It was kind of hard to get there because of all the traffic backed up in Shers Avenue and yet that
Nancy was patrolling before we got there. But um but we it was an active day, right? But anyhow, they're they want to extend that because it's so well attended. The yoga is very well attended. Um so there we're talking about um extending that parks and wreck.
So um if anybody's interested, it's chair yoga, so it's not real hard. And um the Zumba's a little trickier, but she goes slow. So So we could get it. Um >> who's teaching the class? >> Pat Richtor teaches the chair yoga
class. >> You know her? Yeah. >> Yeah. She's she does a lot in town, too. So yeah, she's very good teacher and uh Elise is teaches who teaches the Zumba. She's a threat. >> Her name is Alleta and I don't remember her surname. Sorry. >> Yeah, she lives on Lyndon, too. So, but
she was very good. She was very patient with Nancy and I. But there that class is not very well attended. So, I'm putting a word out there if any seniors want to come to uh Zumba. It's really fun. >> Maybe if they make it chair Zumba, we could >> chair Zumba. That's what we need to do because I have two left feet. I'm letting you know that Nancy has a little
more rhythm than I do. Okay, that's it. We're done. >> Kate, what do you got? >> First off, I just want to say happy birthday again to Mayor Billy Portman. >> Happy's birthday yesterday. >> Birthday mayor. >> Um, and then just echo again, uh, rest
in peace to Edith Blake. I think it's wonderful that we're having a community, uh, celebration for her. Um I've been serving on this deis for 7 years. So for her 101st birthday, her 102nd, 103rd,
104th, and um every year it was just unbelievable. And for every year for her to be so sharp and lovely and beautiful and you know, as she said to Brian, I love everyone. Even the people who don't love me, I I love them. And I think
that's so worthy of of community celebration. Uh, so I'm really happy that we're using community space to celebrate that. >> Um, I have notes. Hold on. Um, multiple people on the day, but I mean,
everybody up here does so much. I mean, that we can't remember to say everything. I mean, Nancy literally directed the traffic and then went to Zuma and then came here today as you heard. Um, but she also participated in as well as Laura and Councilman Euro and
other people up here. And um Main Street America visited Redbank. Um they actually had a representative come here from New Orleans. Um their national strategic planning committee visited Redbank. Um and they conducted focus groups. They surveyed our downtown
businesses. Um all in our special improvement district. Um and then what they're going to do with that information is a recommended strategic plan and also a plan for the next five years for the district. Um, and this is this is wonderful. Um, this is a guiding
document that the SID um has not had. Um, so you know, I see Brian typing up. Definitely reach out to Marin to find out more um about that, but everybody that particip some people participated in the Thursday. I was there for the
Friday. Um, but uh just just wonderful to have that resource. wonderful for there to be um fresh eyes looking at the district. People that see downtowns nationally um see different economies, see
different community events nationally. Um it's just a wonderful benefit to the downtown. Um we also all participated in something that elected officials and public servants love, uh ReadAcross America.
>> It was great. It's always great. Um, I read The Big Orange Spot, which I always love to read. If you haven't read The Big Orange Spot, it's a great one. Um, and then I'll just add, um, this time of year is always really hard for small businesses. We're we're starting to come
out of it. Um, but you know, uh, we're we're just coming out of the the tough time in Redbank. So, just a reminder to support your small businesses, support your Westside businesses. Your Westside businesses want to see you. They would love to see you. Um, and that's it.
That's my report. Thank you. >> Mayor, could I just add something I forgot? >> Sure. >> So, last night was trivia night. So, I um some people if we're here, did you bring your spoon? But it was for the education committee and um it's really a fun night. We had a great night. We
weren't in last place this time. We came in fourth. So, it was pretty good. But while I was there, I did see um Rosie and Eric Pur and they wanted me to tell you that they did read that proclamation to her to Edith and they told her it was Edith Blake day and she was awake during
that. So that made me feel so I'm getting chills telling you that they did say she understood it. So that was really very nice. And um so when I was reading I brought my kids books. My kids are old as you know, 41 and 39. But um I
brought The Giving Tree to the third grade and then I remember that my daughter told me there's a new ending to The Giving Tree. So I read the old version. So then I went home and found the new version and there is a whole new ending to that story. When not not written by that author, but was revised.
So, I was very h happy when I went to the charter school and they had a group of books out there because there were only two books I could find on my bookshelf and there was a really good tree on a story about cool beans. So, um if you're reading the giving tree, look up the new ending to it. That's it.
Thanks, >> Mayor. May I also add something? >> Sure. >> Sorry. Um, speaking of read across America, one of the books that um was available is called on the flipped fairy tale series. And um my kids are grown so
I missed that phase, but I had the pleasure of reading the story of the three little pigs from the perspective of a wolf. It was very interesting. So if you get a chance to go through that book, it's kind of fun. So that's it. I'm not saying the third graders at the
elementary school at the uh elementary school um the charter school know me well but they picked out a book for me to read to them and it was called the bad seed. It was the bad seed. And then I had to tell them stories about me being bad in third grade as the teachers were telling
me to cut it off in the background. I had a good time. Yeah. and I got to read to the kindergarteners over at uh the uh the primary school. So, that was a lot of fun. >> Sorry, mayor. I have one more thing to add. I'm sorry. It's just like all coming back. Um when reading to the
third grade, um they asked, "What does a council person do?" So, explained a little bit and I said, "You know, we also work on projects that are fun and I mentioned Marine Park." And this third grader raised his hand and he said, "Do you have the blueprints? What are the plans? When is it going to
open?" So, I just want to say thank you for all the people who pushed forward to have Marine Park redone. The kids are really excited about it. >> Uh yes, I am excited to be attending and participating in uh Edith Blake's
celebration of life. Got to meet her several times and what an amazing lady. She was like living history for our town, like a throughine through the whole history. So, um, our second annual
burrow manager end of the year report is out. I'm sure Jim's going to be talking about it, but we're amazing. Did you read this thing? Oh my god, we're killing it. There's there's some really cool things in here. We got a lot done this year.
So, um, this will be made public, I'm sure, right? It'll be on the uh it'll be on the website and also sitting here out in the uh in the burrow hall, usually up in the clerk's office and up on the fourth floor as well. Um >> where are the newspaper racks that these
are going to be on? >> Yes. >> I expect there should be one at the Y. >> You couldn't we do one of these on newsprint and we can put them like on the like at the library when they have like the thin wooden dowels and you hang it over. Um that's all I got. Um, actually, no, I
got one more thing. For my birthday, I went to um, Mila Pizzas for dinner. And I can't I think we just take for granted how amazing the Mexican food is on the west side here. I mean, I realized last week I went to Maas, I
went to Senor Peppers, and I went to Tino's. Like, amazing, amazing food. If you get a chance, please. Uh, what's that? >> Hit the trifecta. >> Yeah, hit the trifecta. Yeah. Um, and then I got sick from eating too much chocolate cake last night, but that's
another story. Um, so yeah, please support our I mean all of our businesses, but the west side uh could definitely use a little extra sugar these days. So, uh, that's all I got. Jim, >> thank you, Mayor. Yes, uh, tomorrow we will release the full 2025 managers
report which will be uploaded in PDF in both English and Spanish online. Um, but yes, it provides a comprehensive look back at the work accomplished um by the mayor and council and the staff of the bureau. Um, I'm truly truly proud of
this report. It's reflects exactly what we're trying to do around here is the transparency and accountability for every one of our departments. Um, it serves as a snapshot of our progress. Um it really, you know, I really want to recognize the team behind it because
it's it's tremendous the amount of work that every department puts in across the burrow. Um police, fire, public utilities, uh construction, finance, administration, parking, uh the public library. I mean, there's everybody's got a little snippet in here. Community
engagement. You'll see exactly how we're engaging with the community in here. Um, and you know, I want to thank the mayor and council um for providing clear policy and direction that allows my staff to um move these initiatives
forward efficiently. So, uh really really appreciative for everything. It's it's a 30-page report. Um it's expanded from last year. It's got a lot more information in it. Um and we're just going to keep building on this and and
keep this going. I really want to um thank Adriana for her help with this. She's tremendous at what she does. We don't have our own, you know, professional marketing team that we hire some outside consulting firm. We do all
this in-house. Um and it really shows because there's a lot of pride behind the work that's that's in here. And the key themes in the 2025 report, you know, investing in our infrastructure, um, community quality of life, economic vitality, uh, re our responsible government governance, you know, those
are a lot of the key themes that are going in there. And, you know, it's it's really to show the public and everybody that we serve that, you know, these are our benchmarks for progress. Um, and I think it's it's really a great highlight
of 2025. we're already, you know, highlighting things in 2026 um to add for the we're already working on the next report. Um so really a tremendous job by everybody involved. So that will be uh out for public
consumption tomorrow. I definitely wanted the mayor and council to have first look tonight. Um just to shift gears now, Lynen A project that has started with test pitting on the utilities. Um, so that's that's getting going now that the the weather
is beginning to cooperate, even though I can't believe I saw snow today. Um, I I wanted to highlight the passport services and the ordinance that was introduced today. I think that's going to be a great program uh being brought to the burrow that people can come to Burough Hall, make an appointment at the
clerk's office just as they would at, you know, Mammoth County Connection, uh, any, you know, post offices. We we take the pictures, we send out the applications, we collect the payments. Um it's a service that I utilize once in a municipality and I said this is something that we need to bring to
Redbank. Um and I think it's you can come from any municipality. It's not just for Redbank residents. It's a revenue generating source uh for the burrow. Uh Mary's taken this uh this this ball and really ran with it and did a tremendous job coordinating all of it with her staff. Um and and we're getting
everything all set up. So once the adoption of this ordinance is in place, we'll be ready to roll. And we'll definitely do a public uh uh information campaign behind it as well. And uh this week, I also held my quarterly department head meeting with all of our
department heads, which was really an effective two-hour meeting where everybody um dove right in and gave great reports and and gave us the progress of what they're working on, what their challenges are, what they've faced in 2025 that we can fix in 2026.
Uh we actually went through one of our I like to incorporate some professional development into each uh department head meeting and we went through a root cause analysis um exercise of asking the five W's of root you know root causes and um
so just something for our department has to think about when challenges come their way. And lastly, we had our employee appreciation breakfast at the end of last week on employee appreciation day. And truly, it's uh you know, it's always an honor for me to just kind of kick it with everybody and
uh flip some pancakes and make some eggs and everybody got to enjoy that. So, um >> it's been a great week. Yeah. Thank you, Mayor. >> Do we have a exact session? Jim, do you for anything else? All right, then. Can
I have a motion to adjurnn? So moved. >> Can I have a second? All in favor? >> I was my I was looking for my gavvel. I haven't seen it since 23. >> All right. All set.