your family. I'd like to call the February 24th, 2026 meeting to order. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, liberty and
justice for all. >> Moment of silence to remember the service and sacrifices of the armed service members who protect our nation and the first responders who protect our neighborhoods. Can can I add um somebody um the people of Ukraine on this 4-year
anniversary of when the war started? >> Clerk, please take the role. >> Council member Salberg, >> here. >> Council member Votovich, >> here. >> Council member Freellander, >> here. Council member Roy. >> Yes.
>> Council member Freed >> here. >> Council member Quinn >> here. >> Council member Kelly. >> Council Vice President Sacket >> here. >> Council President Morrison
>> here. >> Adequate notice of this meeting was provided to the daily record in the official newspapers for the township of Rockway. Notice was posted on the official bulletin boards of the of Rockway Township Township website and notice was filed in the office of the township.
>> Approval of the minutes February 10th township council meeting. Can I have a motion? >> President. >> Yes. >> Uh I'm going to make a motion to table the minutes. And I'll tell you why. Um we did get an email from the clerk on the 20th of February only asking for uh
motion uh corrections of who first or seconded him and we dealt with some roll call. But in the minutes it has um uh some incorrect uh statements on um like uh for instance approval of minutes for February 10th. It should read January 26
instead. Um obviously we had um a duplication of the appointment of labor council and the mayor appointment advice and consent. And the other thing that wasn't included was uh my objection to your decision not to remove R 2644
from the consent agenda for a separate vote. So because of those incorrections, either a we make a motion to correct those corrections or um we table it until the next meeting to have those corrections made.
What's your opinion on that? Mana. Uh, first, Council President, I'm not sure I understand what Councilman Kelly is saying and what needs to be corrected. Um, ordinarily, the process for correcting minutes, uh, should be when the minutes are
released, uh, the clerk and the council president should be notified of any potential corrections. Uh, then they should be investigated. Obviously in a simple case what uh the
clerk should do is to check the tape for the meetings uh or the meeting involved at the correct point. Uh report to the council if a correction is in order. Uh if you want to do it the official way and the appro the most appropriate way,
the correction should be noted should be voted on by the council who would direct the clerk to formally correct the minutes of whatever meeting it was. >> Okay. So I did >> I know the procedure is to send an email
to the clerk and myself. I saw there was an email that you sent to the clerk about the roll call vote on the consent agenda which I agree with and that was corrected. >> There was nothing else requested from the clerk to do do anything otherwise. >> No, no, no. It wouldn't be for her. When
when Councilman Kelly sent the email to correct this item, did he bring up the other two items that he just did? >> He did not. >> Okay. But that's not what was requested in the email from the clerk. She only requested for corrections on vote and motions. So here we are looking at this right
now. Approval of minutes. How could we already have a vote on February 10th minutes to approve them >> when they never took place? >> I know that doesn't substantially change the >> Well, it does. It's incorrect, >> Mr. Kelly. >> And then I also objected against the removal of R26. Okay.
>> 44 for a separate vote. And then, you know, I challenged it and you didn't follow um the code, >> right? >> Um but that wasn't noted in there. >> Okay. And then of course my vote was incorrectly recorded which the clerk did correct. >> She did correct. I appreciate that. >> Now again whether she specifically put
in the wording if there's anything else that you would like to put in to have corrected understanding you know your the way that you handle your emails. I I I'm not buying that you didn't respond
because she didn't explicitly give you >> Well, it's interesting though, council president, that when I ask about why weren't contracts provided to us >> y >> for review before we vote, did you ask for them? So, I responded the same way that she responds or the clerk's office
responds. So, I mean, is it good for one way but not good for the other way? >> Well, no. If anything, Councilman, this would this would further bolster the argument that you didn't You you weren't provided the contract because you didn't ask. Okay. The contract as we're
supposed Mr. Kelly, I'm talking. I allow you to talk, please. >> I'm going to respond to everything that you make, though. >> Okay. So, understanding that you could have made the request, you did not. The other
errors that you are calling an error do not substantially change the body of the minutes. >> I am if you want to make a motion to table them. That is your right. And if
you're going to do that, I ask you to do that now. >> Well, Mr. Morrison, I can withdraw that motion and I can make a motion to correct the minutes to reflect a the correct date of the approved minutes which should be January 26.
Uh and also to include where I objected the removal because we we don't have any of that information on here uh in regards to the consent agenda. So, I think it's necessary, especially when the code wasn't applied, to have the council vote on the objection of your
decision, not to remove a particular item on a consent agenda, knowing that a council member or this complete council does not have full consent or a motion isn't required. I think that should be recorded in there. >> So, you're saying the code as
>> under 251. >> Again, I allow you to talk with that. That's all. I'm just saying the code as deciphered by you was not >> well then maybe you should decipher the code to us then because the quorum code that we have that you're supposed to follow that was created by Mr. Yachafano
or admended >> if there's a uh uh a difference from the decision of the council president one can object and then it would do a roll call vote for the council to decide. Okay. >> So
>> so I objected to you not removing R2644 because I was not supporting labor council or the other council because we did not receive the contracts as the council as a whole. Not just me. The council never received any contracts.
>> You never asked for the contract. >> Doesn't matter. We never received them. We should be getting >> matters completely. That's the whole >> But it's not that's like saying, you know what, council president, I didn't receive the resolution. I don't have to ask for every resolution or ordinance to receive it in my council packet to make a fair assessment and vote accordingly
to >> But once you saw that it wasn't included, you waited until the meeting to try for one of your gotcha moment. >> It wasn't a got you moment. Why would I have to ask council president twice if the first time we went through this Mr. Kelly >> in late January? Why would it continue? You're supposed to give us contracts to
vote on. >> Okay, >> but all I'm talking about today is just minutes. >> So here here's the minutes are incorrect. So, here's what I will allow. If you would like to make a motion to table the minutes for the purposes of
later providing to the council your changes. Okay. >> It's not my changes. It's to reflect the record. >> You are making the motion. They're your changes. It's your interpretation of the record. So, again, what and and I think that this is very fair. If you would like to make a motion to table the
minutes and then send an email in writing of the changes that you would like to put out there to the council for consideration, then that's what I will allow and I think that's very fair. I think it's a
little bit better to address where I would table the minutes to reflect the accurate record of what was conveyed regarding the consent agenda and the date correction. We've already addressed the consent agenda vote.
>> I Mr. Kelly, >> it's not my interpretation. I'm only going by the >> one making the motion. Mr. Kelly, here's the final here here's the final statement and I'm going to ask this as a yes or no question. Would you like to make a motion to table the minutes and then provide to the council and the
clerk the changes that you would like to make? Yes or no? >> Mr. Morrison making a motion. I'm making I'm making a motion. I am making a motion >> to table the minutes. >> Okay. so that the clerk department can
accurately depict those concerns that I had just raised on the date of the minutes that were approved which February 10th is incorrect. We know that and also where I object to your decision not to remove >> for a separate vote R 2644.
Okay, that's my motion. The motion is on the table. >> Council President, can I just speak real quick um about >> Wait a second. There's a motion on the table. Let's see if there's a second and then we will So, there's a motion on the table. Is there a second, >> madam? Okay, moving on. Make a motion
for the approval of the minutes for the February 10th Township Council. Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Cler, please take the role. >> Council member Sberg, >> yes. >> Council member Voytovich, >> yes. >> Council member Freelander, >> yes.
>> Council member Roy, >> yes. Council member Freed, yes. Council member Quinn, >> yes. >> Council member Kelly, >> no. >> Council Vice President Sack, >> yes. >> Council President Morrison, >> yes. Eight yeses, one no. Motion passes.
>> President, uh before you move on to item seven, >> yes. >> Um the description on the agenda is not sufficiently comprehensive. Um, if you'll allow me to approach, I'll give you the description. It should be read into the record.
>> Sure. Okay. 02607 an ordinance of the township of Rockaway deleting sections 54-45 entitled fair share housing requirements deleting section 54-46 entitled affirmative marketing of
affordable units deleting section 54-47 entitled municipal housing liaison deleting section 54-48 entitled mandatory affordable housing set aside deleting chapter 53 entitled mandatory
development fee and creating chapter 8 entitled affordable housing requirements. Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Okay. Before we vote just can you or um Miss Ronte just give a brief two minute
on what this is and why the change. >> Yes. Good evening. In accordance with the fourth round of affordable housing requirements, we need to pass certain uh ordinances and mechanisms before you before tonight that we had four uh land
use related ordinances. This is the affordable housing let's say uh administrative items allows us to charge um allows us to collect and administer affordable housing. In the past they have been part of chapter 54 land use
ordinance and now we are taking them out of chapter 54 and a standalone chapter 8 of the municipal code. >> Okay. >> That will greatly reduce u >> and these are requirements the four sections are the four areas that we've spoken about previously. >> Correct. >> Okay.
>> And there is a state template that is provided. >> Got it. >> And quick question for Mr. Afroano. >> Yeah. >> Mr. Atafano. what was just read. Uh, did the public receive that or have access to the same what was read on the record? >> Yes. All of this has been published to
be public previously. All the ordinances have been either introduced or made available to the public. Am I correct, Allison? >> I'm only asking because you made a correction on the 2607 and then provided something to the council president to read. And I'm just making sure that the
public, >> it appears that this is just an error in what was printed on here. And the ordinance that was handed to me was just a further >> is this the same ordinance that we have in the packet that you just read and the same ordinance that would be obtainable for the public to review.
>> Is that the same ordinance that has been presented to this council all year so far? >> Yeah. Okay. So, there is a motion and there is a second. Clerk, please take the role. >> Council member Sberg. >> Yes. Council member Voitovich, >> yes.
>> Council member Freelander, >> yes. >> Council member Roy, >> yes. >> Council member Freed, >> yes. >> Council member Quinn, >> yes. >> Council member Kelly, >> yes. >> Council Vice President Zack, >> yes. >> Council President Morrison,
>> yes. This nine yeses. Motion carries. Ordinances for adoption. 02601 ordinance providing for POS remediation in by the township of Rockaway in the county of Mars, New Jersey and appropriating 864,737.74
therefore from monies available in the reserve for POS remediation of the township. Can I have a motion? >> Second. >> Is there anybody from the public that wishes to speak on this ordinance only? >> Is there
all the respects. >> I'm sorry. If you wish to speak, please come up to the mic. Name and address for the record. And there is a three minute time limit. >> Bruce Lena 2411 Freddy Lane in Rockaway, New Well, War,
New Jersey, which is Rockaway, New Jersey. Don't ask, don't tell, don't whatever. Anyway, >> uh I'm very concerned about affordable housing. >> I'm sorry. This is not This one is not affordable housing. >> This is >> This is water mediation.
>> Okay. I thought we just talked about >> that motion is passed already. >> But that was an introduction. >> That motion is over. >> I'm sorry. I we >> we're going to have open to the public for anything else in a little bit. >> No problem. >> And council president, can we just remind the public that this is not funds
coming from taxpayers money. This is coming from Dupont. >> Okay. Um, is there anybody else from the public that wishes to speak? Any council discussion? >> Just what I had mentioned before. Just to make the public aware. Thank you.
>> Clerk, please take the role. >> Council member Serg, >> yes. >> Council member Votovich, >> yes. >> Council member Freelander, >> yes. >> Council member Royek, >> yes. >> Council member Freeday, >> yes. >> Council member Quinn,
>> yes. Council member Kelly, >> yes. >> Council Vice President Zackett, >> yes. >> Council President Marson, >> yes. It's nine yeses. Motion carries. O2602, an ordinance amending chapter 2, administrative code, article 9, section
2-48.4, wedding and civil union ceremonies of the revised general ordinances of the township of Rockaway. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Is there anybody from the public that wishes to speak on this ordinance only?
Is there any council discussion? >> You know, I have a quick question. >> Mayor, how many weddings do you think you do? I mean, I always see the photos and I know that you're very involved and some that we don't even see photos, but what what do you think you you hit a year? >> Um,
probably close to 20 a year >> for real. >> For reals. That's hence this and generating some extra revenue. >> Yeah. Great. >> Thank you. Clerk, please take the role. >> Council member Salberg. >> Yes.
>> Council member Vuittovich. >> Yes. >> Council member Freelander. >> Council member Roy. >> Yes. >> Council member Freed. >> Yes. >> Council member Quinn. >> Yes. >> Council member Kelly. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Sacket.
>> Yes. >> Council President Marsen. >> Yes. That is nine yeses. Motion carries. Um the next resolution um was put in at the behest of council vice president Sacket and uh I'd like to uh turn the meeting over to him for a few minutes to
uh talk about it. Thank you uh council president and excuse me tonight I am feeling a little under the weather. Um but I wanted to make sure I'm here for this meeting. Um, so this resolution is a resolution 26-51 opposing the location of immigration and
customs enforcement processing detention facility within the town of Roxberry and endorsing executive order number 12 made by Governor Cheryl on February 11, 2026. And the reason I brought this resolution to our town is to support our neighbors in Roxberry, a fellow town in Morris
County. Um, this has been well thought out. This has been going around our county. numerous towns are in support of Roxberry and this is a I feel this is the right thing to do for our town and um I hope everyone will support it and um always always happy to support our
neighboring towns throughout Morris County. Thank you so much. Um, and just before I allow you to make the motion, I just want to stress that this is a obviously a very sensitive topic and the the the substance of this resolution is
not a referendum on where people stand on um ICE or immigration or anything of that. This is simply an ordinance. um >> resolution.
>> It's a resolution um supporting our neighboring town and also voicing um the fact that we would not look to have something like this in in our town. All right. Again, this is federal
government. You know, at the end of the day, they're going to they're going to do what they want to do. But, um you know, we feel very strongly about it. uh council councilman Sackett has been, you know, um very uh adamant about this going in.
He's put in a lot of work on it. Um and I salute it. But again, this is not this is no referendum on how you feel about the issue. This is just about keeping this out of our town. >> Council President, if I can comment on that. >> And you know what? Absolutely. Just give me one second. Um again, I know that
this is there's a lot of um thoughts on this. Uh we don't normally open uh resolutions for discussion amongst the council. Um but I I in a case like this um we're we'll let everybody if they would like to say something on it. Um
however, I am going to keep it to one minute. >> To what? >> One minute. >> I'll do a motion first. >> That's uh we can do it after. >> Go ahead. >> No, I mean if anybody wishes to to go beforehand uh that has something to say prior. I don't know if Manny or maybe
Susan has something there. I well said by the president and vice president. It's very important. >> Go ahead. That's it. Um so I reviewed this uh uh resolution as there and Jonathan I I um applaud you for putting it together. I know if it was something
that was copy and pasted or something that you had written and reviewed from our attorneys, but I just want to point out that um this is this site has been in front of the planning board of Roxberry for quite some time. And I don't know if many of you understand um that this was going through a massive
review for um zoning variances regarding this 500,000 foot facility which is basically 11 acres and it's on 110 acre track and through the zoning uh application in front of the planning board um the zoning board of Roxberry actually
increased and exceeded its own zoning cap of occupancy from 49% to 99%. and the planning board minutes. Uh the board justified a waiver for all of this because it's it's a great benefit of including economic de development highway access via routes 46 and 80
large wooded buffers minimizing impacts on residents and it outweighs any detriment. >> Mr. Kelly, I'm going to >> So the concern your time again the concern that we have here >> is that we've had other a minute you're out of order. >> Mr. Mr. Morrison, you were giving
everybody a minute to speak. If nobody else has wished to speak, I would want to consume some of that time. >> A minute is not enough last meeting and you got >> a minute is not going to address these issues that are here. Mr. Kelly, because this is fear-mongering in Rockaway of not providing all the truth.
>> You are out of order. >> I'm not out of order. >> Again, this is we're we're not going to get into, you know, the the the internal workings of Roxberry and what they're doing. This is Mr. Tax appeals
has never defended Rockaway Township and any of those negative impacts that we receive an ice detention facility, >> right? So, let's not >> I don't have anything against any law enforcement. >> Mr. Kelly, >> please respect the rest of the council and the pro and the procedures that we have. You you are consistently not
respect. >> I would say the same. A minute is not enough to address >> I didn't have to give any time. There's no time allowed during a resolution. There's nothing in law that says that. There's no ordinance that says that. It's your decision. That's the problem. >> Thank you for backing up. >> So, you want to take away my
constitutional right to speak. Council, >> I have a comment about the resolution as well. I mean, uh I guess kind of going along lines with uh Councilman Kelly, what he just said. This is an issue in Roxbury. I don't know why we should be voting on something that has nothing to do within our jurisdiction. That's one.
But two, from a law enforcement perspective, you know, 911 happened after the 911 commission did its investigation. 911 happened because of lack of communication with local law enforcement and federal agencies. And the executive
order from uh the governor limits the cooperation from local enforcement and federal agencies. So, you know, we always say never forget and it's crazy how quickly we forgot. So I'm, you know, this is something I'm definitely gonna be uh against.
>> Lakeland Riley, Jacqueline, Rachel Morren, Marian Perez, and daughter Kelly. >> These are people that were killed because detainees were not given to these individuals. >> This is not about that. Stop making it about that. >> It's fearongering. Read the resolution. >> Stop taking other council people's time.
>> Councilwoman Frederick, >> I just want to state for the record. I did not want to yield a minute of my time to what Mr. Kelly was saying, I agree with the resolution. No one in Roxberry was like this. So, I was like, all right, we see you. We don't like it.
We understand and we stand with you. That's it. Councilwoman Roy. >> I b I basically agree with Sophia and this is this is ridiculous that
you're not Oh. Councilman Quinn, >> thank you. Um, the federal government's going to do what it wants to do. Uh, what New Jersey does or what this council does or Roxberry has nothing and
no bearing on it. The government is going to do what it wants. So, I'm for it. Councilman Freedellander, >> just want to say there's nothing wrong with supporting a local town that is
near our border for this reason. Uh it's a matter of opinion whether it's right or wrong, but in the scheme of things, it doesn't belong in Mars County. >> Where does it >> Where does it belong, Manny?
>> Where does it belong? Please stop taking his time. >> What would be a better place? >> Kelly, you're out of order. >> Do you have an idea? >> Mr. Kelly, >> can we please please? I'm sorry, sir. >> Bruce.
>> Sir, are you done? >> Okay. Can you >> I'll make the motion. You have to read it. >> My glasses on. >> Resolution 26-51, a resolution opposing location of
immigration and customs enforcement processing detention facility within the town of Roxberry and endorsing executive order number 12. Made by Governor Cheryl on February 11th, 2026. >> I'll second. >> Clerk, please take the role.
>> Council member Salberg. >> Yes. Council member Voovich, >> no. >> Council member Freellander, >> yes. >> Council member Roy, >> yes. >> Council member Freed, >> yes. >> Council member Quinn, >> yes.
>> Council member Kelly, >> absolutely not. >> Council Vice President Sacket, >> absolutely yes. >> Council President Marson, >> yes. Seven yeses, two nos. Resolution passes. Okay,
at this point we are going to we're going to open it up to the public. Do we have the sign sheet? >> Got it. >> Sorry. Okay. Uh before opening the public portion of this meeting, I want to remind everyone of the rules that apply
to anyone who wants to address the council. Any member of the public wishing to address the council will have three minutes to do so. While an extension of time may be requested, it should not be assumed that an extension of time will be granted. While addressing the council, members of the public may not address or question any individual
council member. If anyone addressing the council violates these rules or conducts themselves inappropriately, their speaking opportunity will be terminated and they will be instructed to return to their seat. A refusal to comply will result in removal from the room. Members of the public in attendance may not make
comments from the audience without recognition by the chair. persons doing so will be subject for removal from the room. As council president, I have tremendous respect for my fellow council members and the public to take the time and effort to attend council meetings. These rules are necessary to protect and respect, but also to permit the council
to do its business in an orderly and professional manner. When I call your name, please approach the mic. State your name and address for the record. And as a reminder, there is a threeminut time limit. Michael Ardi. Michael Lardi, 19 North Brookside Drive.
I just like to uh say to the DPW and now they're just showing off now, getting rid of all night long. The roads are clear. It's amazing how they do it. Um you know, the town should come over here and get a lesson. Um as to the ICE
resolution, I hope to see a resolution in the near future saying that we're going to support law enforcement when they do want to collect the criminals so they're not this released out into the public. If you're so strong about not wanting them detained here, let's We don't need to detain them if we just
turn them over when we find them. Um the last meeting we wasted a lot of time on wanting a separate vote for one resolution. Went back and forth why we're not going to do it. We couldn't get a second pull that one resolution for the vote. It would have been simple
to say, "Okay, we'll pull it and everyone could vote the way they want on on the the two separate motions." But that doesn't happen tonight. we wasted more time because it wasn't reflected in the minutes. And I was at the meeting and it it happened. It should be reflected in the minutes.
Then I know there's a conflict with Councilman Kelly, but when he asks for a motion, not one person can second it. Why not second it and then stand behind your vote? Let him have his motion and everyone could vote against him every time he wants a motion. But at least get
it on record because it just looks like bickering. It's getting back to when Jeremy was running the show here, which it's going to become embarrassing if this continues. It's only been a couple of meetings and it's starting already. So hopefully you can maybe view the YouTube and see what it looks like from
our perspective and work together. Even if you can't stand each other, I'm on a board. We don't always agree. We don't always like each other, but we try we try. doesn't always happen, but we do try to take into account what we look like to the public because it's been
brought to our attention and I'm bringing it to your attention. Thank you, >> Francesca Nordon. >> Francesca Nordan, 53 Kaug Avenue, Rockaway. I'm a pediatric nurse and a retired pediatric nurse practitioner. My nursing practice began in and is
steadfast in being advocate for children. Therefore, I am very concerned for all the children who have a parent, legal guardian, aunt and uncle, cousin or grandparents who serve in any capacity of law enforcement. I believe they experience all the negative statements and report of
activity against immigration, customs and enforcement as harassment, intimidation and bullying. Immediately when I learned of the NJA recommending teachers wear blue against ICE on January 23rd, 2026, harassment,
intimidation, and bullying infractions against the children came to mind. It's very likely that the children heard the buzz about this at school. My concern for HIB against children related to law enforcement officers
resurfaced when I learned that on February 22nd there was a planned anti ice walk out in the Mount Olive Middle School. Who organizes for children in their tween years in another state a child was injured when out of school during school hours on one of these
protest events. Anyway, this made me come here these two events back to back. As per the Census Bureau in July of 24, New Jersey population is 9,500,851 people. 21 are under 18 years old. So
about 2 million people. All of our children are being affected by political posturing. We know they hear it everywhere. Most of our young ones will not speak up for themselves when they experience harassment, intimidation, and bullying. There is no time to discuss the
behaviors children will manifest as they attempt to deal the stress related to the pressures they experience in the midst of repeated political related rhetoric. I implore our town council to please let children be children. And I I just also want to add that I think this
R2651 should have split out both the things. They're very different. Executive order from Mickey Cheryl and I buying the property. I think I should have had them separate and vote on them separately. Thank you.
>> Thank you, >> Lisa Ginder. >> Hi, my name is Lisa and I'm at 136 Birch Street in Dover, technically Rockway Township because you know. Um, so first of all, I want to say thank you for
putting forward the resolution. Um, you see what's happening across the country. I live in Dover. I know I'm in Rockaway Township, but it is Dover and there's no no such thing as discrimination when it comes to getting lists of where people
live. And we all know do is a target. So, I don't want that violence on my streets. I I just don't. I really don't. Um, I live in a really great neighborhood. I live in a neighborhood that I specifically chose for the school systems, for the location, for the
safety, for the the the neighborly aspect. And I have Hispanic neighbors and we know that Hispanic people are being targeted. And I have I grew up in a family hearing a grandfather who um
liberated concentration camps in World War II. like the it just blows my mind. So, moving on from that, thank you. The second part that um I want to address is I feel like I have I'm having a deja vu moment here because I came forward about
this um maybe about a year and a half ago or so. Um is speeding. Speaking of my lovely safe neighborhood, I don't live on a main street with a double yellow line. I live on a side street, but I also live on a side street that
people tend to cut through to get to the road of a double yellow line. And I came here, I complained about it, and um I was told who to contact, contacted said individuals. They came out and they put a little white box on a street sign
across from my house. We sat there and we watched. We literally saw the cops pull over multiple people right in front of my house because they were speeding. So again, um, nothing happened of it. I was told that I had to contact a certain
person whose name I don't remember. If I dig into my email, I can find it. Not important at the moment. However, I reached out a couple of times and to no result. I still don't know the result of the speed study that happened on my road that me and several of my neighbors asked for. So, you know, there's that.
But in addition to that, um, with all this lovely snow that we've gotten, my road is now significantly more narrow. I've had to park in the street. And because of that, I literally almost got hit the other night because some jerk, sorry, I was going to say something
else. Trying to be more respectful. Some jerk decided speeding's cool when it's dark out. Um, you know, so, and meanwhile, I'm getting out of a white car. Um, so it's not like you can't see me. I'm I'm there. I'm clearly right there. I'm in your headlights. So yes,
um, I would love for that to be revisited. I would love to know who I can escalate that to given that the speed study clearly did nothing. Thank you very much, >> April Petira. Hello. Good evening. April Matara Petro, 14 Dudac Road, Rockaway. Good evening,
council president and council members. My husband coaches third and fourth grade wreck basketball in the township. What he tries to teach the girls is the goal of the game, working together to get the ball in the basket. It's such a simple concept that can be applied to so
many other things. For example, this council. Each of you, both new and returning members, have been elected to represent your ward and district. You bring unique skills to the council, and by working together, you can achieve great things for our community.
Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be the case so far this year. We're aware there's a long history on this council, but from the perspective of the public, it doesn't appear there's much teamwork. As a resident of W 6, my councilman, Mr. Kelly, was elected to represent us, and
I would like to hear what he has to say. And that was to be my only comment until I saw the ordinance about the Roxberry Ice Facility. I'm wondering what the point was of adding that except to f further polarize this already divided community. Thank you,
>> Bruce. I'm sorry I can't I don't want to mess up the last name. Weer, sorry. >> No problem. Thank you for the respect. >> Bruce Weiner 2411, Freddy Lane, W uh Walker, New Jersey.
I wasn't going to speak about ICE. I'm Jewish. My grandfather escaped Nazi Germany. Six million Jews died mainly because countries would not take immigrants that
are hardworking immigrants, not criminals, into our country. I support the Roxberry uh cause because it could be here. I also would like to address the whole
council that let's work on what we agree upon and not polarize ourselves on what we disagree on because I guarantee you we can agree on 80% of the things.
So I I ask you, I beg of you, work on what we can agree on and what we can't agree on, table it, park it, and we'll discuss it later and come to a compromise. That's how politics is supposed to work. It's not working in a
Congress, and you see what's happening. This is a smaller town. Please, all of you, you all have things in common that you can agree upon. I think and the other thing I was coming here to speak about was affordable
housing. It I am 66 years old. Housing has more than triple and I'm worried if I'm going to be able to afford it in 10 years. We got to address affordable housing and
on these pilot programs put limits on the amount of rent that Avalon, which is very known for raising their rates. I know because I live in here in Bon and that's why I'm in Rockaway because
Avalon raised my rent from 2,000 to $4,000. So there has to be affordable housing and it has to be addressed. Not everyone is Rockefeller, but we just, you know, I grew up
I grew up in peaceful town the 60s. I grew up in New York City, 93rd and Western Avenue where immigrants lived with upper iders that were considered uh upper class middle class. The
apartment I lived in was a is worth $3 million now. But we got along with our neighbors because they were hardworking neighbors. Not everybody is a criminal.
And no, coming across the by for the record coming across the border illegally does not make you a criminal. >> I'm sorry Mr. >> Not in the criminal. >> We're at our three minutes. Just you can finish your thought. >> Okay. It's not in the criminal docket.
It's an administration thing. So nobody should be separating childrens and we got to even the people that are criminals. We got to treat them humanely. And a forprofit
I don't want to come in here and rock away. I'll tell you that right now. >> A forprofit >> I have to have to >> forprofit facility. Listen, I gave you some extra time. >> I know. >> I got to ask you. >> All right. >> Thank you. I get it, though. Thank you.
>> Okay. Uh, is there anybody from the public that didn't fill out the sheet that wishes to speak? Okay. Uh, moving on to the consent agenda. R 2646, R2647, R2648, R 2649, and R2650.
>> Council President. >> Yeah. We have to close open to the public before we go into the next portion of the meeting. >> No. Okay. >> Can I have a motion? >> So move. >> I'll second. >> Cler, please take the role.
>> Council member Salberg. >> Yes. >> Council member Voytovich. >> Yes. >> Council member Freellander. >> Yes. >> Council member Royek. >> Yes. >> Council member Freay. >> Yes. Council member Quinn. >> Yes. >> Council member Kelly.
>> I just want to thank the veterans that are in this tax um uh this uh veterans that are there. Uh yes. On the consent agenda. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Council Vice President Sack. >> Yes. >> Council President Marsen.
>> Yes. It's nine yeses. Motion carries. Uh for new business. Uh Savannah Jacobs. uh up for junior membership fire company number one. Can I have a motion? >> I'll make a motion. >> Second. >> Give that to Manny.
>> I have Quinn and Manny for that. >> Council member Salberg. >> Yes. >> Council member Voytovich. >> Yes. >> Council member Freelander. >> Yes. >> Council member Roy. >> Yes. >> Council member Freda. >> Yes. >> Council member Quinn.
>> Yes. >> Council member Kelly. >> Yes. Council Vice President Sackett, >> yes. >> Council President Morrison, >> yes. It's nine yeses. Motion carries. Congratulations. Okay. Uh, moving on to council reports. Um, council,
>> again, I just had one thing to add for new business. I had spoken to the mayor about it previously, just to to put on there. Um, thank you for that. And Mr. Mayor, we were just talking about before. Uh we have um the uh moving wall for uh
the veterans uh memorial that's coming up for June 2nd to June 6th. I'm sorry, July. Uh that's on there. And originally on the notice that we had it, it was on the 20
um 2nd of December um of 2025, there was a notice that has it located at Hudsonia Field. And then recently on the 21st of February of this year, it is now stated that it's there on um Peterson Field. And one, well, we
need to make the correction on there. Uh two, uh both notices are great uh when they're putting it together. However, the first notice that was in December of last year actually has a visual of the wall where the new notice is just kind of like colors surrounding it or whatnot. Um so I had made a mention to
uh Mayor Jackson in regards to that. My question and I think Joe did answer it somewhat and it may be some difficulty. I thought a better place would be Park Lake to have the wall. We have our VFW that are there. We have the Presbyterian uh cemetery that is part
Rockway Burrow, Rockway Township where veterans are buried. We have the cemetery across the street. Um and I I think it could be a combined effort and it is again it's a continuity of of residents that walk around there and plus our own memorial that we have. It would be almost like a continuation of
that. Uh it would be great uh to do that if possible. Um I know there could be some troubling things from what we discussed before. The other >> uh not so much space. I think it's >> Listen, let's let's let let's let Councilman finish his no and I appreciate Manny's input on that. Um the
other thing is uh with Memorial Day we we get these flyers that go through that are handed out when there's the burrow in the township and it's the it was the 155th annual program. Uh that would be the this year and uh it has all the
names of those who had uh deceased in all the wars that we have leading up to. My my father and his twin or his Irish twin brother are in this book and Joe knows my position on veterans and I know your position too, Joe. I appreciate that. I was hoping maybe because we have a 250
year celebratory thing for our our nation and all the men and women that are service that protected our nation to where we're at today. I thought maybe we can do something and put it on our web page. Um maybe we can get this in the PDF. Maybe we can put the Rockway
residents that are veterans um even our employees because our veterans page it just shows like veteran affairs and stuff like that. And I was hoping that we could have more information on the veteran section, including even pictures of the um servicemen and women that are
on our flags that we put up in the warmer months. Um it's just something to look at. I don't know how difficult it would be for it to include all of this information on there for people that don't have the ability to attend any of this that maybe moved out of state uh or
families of those people that live out of state to be able to go online rather than only be able to get it physically in person. So that that's my thing for new business on on that. >> Um Kelly, >> absolutely. Absolutely. just maybe maybe
just put in the book as a PDF, you know, on the website. So, the whole thing will be on there. Everyone's name will be on there. >> Yeah, I think it's a good idea. >> I mean, we could still add a little bit more to it because of the the pictures. I think what we have 18 flags right now uh that are there. >> Listen, I I I think that the the
attention and recognition that's been given to the veterans as of late has been nothing short of exceptional. Councilman Watvich led the effort to get the banners put up. um he secured funding for that at no cost to the township and he had those veterans banners put up. Uh I know that uh
Councilman uh Quinn had before the meeting uh given some, you know, recommendations to the mayor. I thank the mayor for taking all the recommendations. I know there's probably more to it than we know, you know, space and things like that, but uh the fact that we're talking about it this much I
think is is pretty good thing. So, okay. Um thanks Joe. Moving on to reports. Um, again, we're going to hold it to three minutes. Um, I'm uh I'm actually going to go first
this time. So, one, uh, let me start my >> I started. You can monitor me. Um, Mr. Mouth, I'm surprised you're not sleeping. I was very surprised to see you here. Um, so I'd like to start off the uh the
the the love show that you're going to receive here tonight. Um, I was talking to Councilman Sacket about some of the other towns and even driving around um heads heads above what the other towns are doing. So I know that, you know,
obviously there's going to be here and there where people have some individual issues, but you and your team are to be commended. So thank you for that. Um, I want to thank uh Miss Fonte. I brought to her an issue before this past storm. Uh after the last storm, I had a lot of
concerns about snow removal at the mall um on Ring Road there. The uh the lane nearest to the curb you could not drive in. About half of that lane was taken up with snow. Uh it was very unsafe as cars were trying to merge into one lane. uh
she immediately responded and within 24 hours uh I know she brought the hammer down with them and they went and they they cleared it up. So, thank you for that. Um I I do want to say something um uh you know really you know for Bruce and some of the other people that are
bringing it up. The council working together doesn't mean that everybody has to agree, right? I see the council working together as different viewpoints, right? And you know, that's been some of the
things that I've heard in the past is, well, everybody just kind of agrees with each other and it's a rubber stamp and that's it. You know, I I welcome, you know, differing viewpoints. you know, I I think it's exceptional for other people to bring different perspectives
to things um on the condition that it's done respectfully and within the procedures of the council and the way this council has operated for many many years. You know, we have to respect the process. We have to respect that there's going to be different opinions,
right? And until recently, it hasn't been a problem, right? And there are certain procedures that have to be followed. And I feel very strongly about that. I, you know, I in the past, I've actually I'
I've tried to um commend Mr. Kelly on some of the things that he's done. You know, that also backfired on me. But, you know, I I think I I like his viewpoints, you know, on a lot of things. He does his homework, right? But there is a process that has to be
followed and we have to respect that process and that's all I'm asking for. You know, nobody's trying to stifle anybody's voice. Nobody's trying to do any of that. But if we don't follow proper procedures and respect
each others, then it's it's all going to fall apart. >> Exactly. Three minutes. >> Very good. >> Thank you. Um I I'll give you >> I'll second. You could have seconds. >> Thank you. Uh, council pres council
president. Uh, yeah, just to reiterate what the council president said. Um, All and his team, excellent work. Um, my daughter is in college and tomorrow will be their third straight day um, not being able to have classes because their town has done a poor job with the snow
removal. They they're stuck online. So, uh, great job to your team. Um, you know, I know there'll be some hiccups here and there. Nothing will ever be perfect. Life is not perfect, but you're doing a great job. I attended the Morris Hills and at Morristown basketball game, varsity
basketball game last Tuesday, February 17th. Um, we came up short against Morristown, but we did tie to win the NJC conference. So, it was the first Morris Hills boys basketball title since 1992. So, um, very excited for that. We do
play if you're looking for something to do Friday six o'clock we are in the state tournament at I believe Joe's one of your hometowns at Wayne Valley. So coach Mcclelay and the whole varsity team wishing you best of luck and I pray my son will get in for a minute or two.
Hopefully he's a sophomore on the team. So great going down there. Um and uh coming up soon I'm at the clubhouse. Mike you didn't mention I know you always love mentioning stuff at the clubhouse. There's going to be next week um I was at the Kabad breakfast on Sunday, February 22nd with Councilman
Freedellander on Tuesday, March 23rd at the White Metal Lake Clubhouse, 4:30 p.m. Porum Festival. So, I hope to see you there. Hope you can make it there. All are invited. So, all all are invited and uh that'll be the Porum Porm Festival. So, a little be a little
dancing in there. So, 4:30 >> Porum. Yeah. P U R I M P U R I M. It's at the White Metal Lake Clubhouse. 4:30 Jewish holiday Tuesday, March 3rd. So, Bruce, looking forward to seeing you there >> in costume. In costume.
>> In costume. So, and that's all I have. Thank you. >> You can always dress. Porum is a dress up. >> Dress up. >> Okay. >> I'm I'm glad for all the interest in Porum. Um, >> Councilman Kelly,
>> uh, I I'm gonna go right back at Al. Same thing, Al. I think we talked about it before. Uh, Snow Zero Al is at five now. Uh, that's on air. And the hours that you put into it, Al, I mean, I'm out in the same elements and I see you guys all over the place from plowing for for a day. Uh, but one thing I want to
make sure everybody knows that Al puts in all these hours overseas and actually plows himself, but you don't get overtime, nothing. Correct. Uh I appreciate that and you go above and beyond and you always have and you are a definite role model leader for the
men and women that work underneath you. Appreciate that Mr. North. Uh Chief stop signs Toron and Whipperwill and seen the status of that. Um it's getting worse now that it's a little bit more narrower the roads because of the snow more again of Amazon um DHS all those people that
are driving through Uber and stuff like that. So that is one problem. Also, there was a stop sign that's down on Decker and Deerly. It might be maybe it was just pushed up with the plow pl uh piles. I noticed that when I was plowing up there uh and it was uh it was down.
Um and then uh one additional thing, maybe Mr. Trafano, you could help me is uh we had a matter that was um uh filed in the courts uh Albert versus Rockway Township. Unfortunately, we were not successful in that case uh recalling
against a police officer. Uh following that on e courts, I noticed that there was a motion for uh attorney fees for vertical prefering party and then I saw that it was withdrawn and due to a settlement. But I don't
recall in January having a settlement come before this council for our approval under our code and they were searching for close to a half a million dollars in attorney fees. Can you update this council? >> Majana, one second. I want I want to let him finish his three minutes and then
during your report I'll ask you to respond. if you can then uh provide that information and when it will be before the council and if any payments have been made uh to that firm as well as the uh planet. Thank you,
>> Councilman Quinn. Thank you. And I've always said Al and his crew have done a beautiful job for this town. They could teach other towns how to do it. It's fantastic. Uh, I want to also thank the first responders for
going out in this crazy weather and their families for letting them go there. Um, you know, when you're out 12, 14 hours plowing and your family's home, you know, it's the family that's holding
the fort for you. So, thank you very much for everything you guys do. All right. The other thing is uh any updates on Peterson Field? Um you know, I'm sitting here waiting on plans and
everything else. So, if we can get that before us soon, I'd appreciate that. All right. So, that's done. Girls and boys basketball recreation is coming to an end. And of course, the sign up for all the spring
sports is going on. So, uh, please, if you want to coach, please get involved with your kids programs. Uh, we're always looking for coaches. Those are the programs that need it. It's great to
give back to your kids by doing so. Other than that, that's it, sir. >> Councilwoman Freddy. Again, thank you again for doing such a wonderful job clearing the roads. Um, my
daughter in middle school does not thank you at all. >> I would stay away from the middle school. They know and they're surprisingly clever with their barbs, but behalf of us adults who have to drive places, thank you very much. And to the road safety, please be
careful. Like the roads are looking very clear, but there's always going to be reckless drivers. Uh, so like I'm afraid like the only way we really we if you see someone driving very unsafeely, please don't hesitate to report them and just be careful out there.
>> Councilwoman Roy. >> Um, same Mr. Nth for your fabulous crew for helping with the snow. It's greatly appreciated. I just do want to mention to neighbors to help neighbors because I know there's some people that needed help. I just wish neighbor neighbors
would reach out to neighbors if if they can do it to help them shovel or plow whatever. Um uh I went to the board of ed sorry >> not >> oh I went to the board of education meeting on February 18th and I wasn't
aware that there's um shortage of bus drivers. I know some parents spoke about um late bus pickups and they're going to try to address that um with hiring uh for bus drivers. Stony Brook had a little um awards presentation for their
student council members for all they do for their classmates in the school. And I saw a preview of Spongebob the musical that Copen will be putting on in March and it many talented singers were there and it seems like a nice thing to support. Um,
I think that's it. Thank you. Oh, and sorry, the resident on Birch Street, if you can give me your information because I am your uh council person and I also do have speeding issues that I, you know, it's it's ongoing. So, you know,
contact me, please. Okay. Thank you, >> Councilman Freedellander. >> I'm doing reverse roll calls. That's okay. >> Lights on. Before I forget, Al, I want it to be It's going to be 900 for your
department. >> Yeah. >> Incredible. Really? I I can't say enough. >> I'm sorry. Very fortunate that it's right before the budget meeting, but >> yeah, >> we'll start at three minutes again. >> Uh, how's the salt doing? Are we in good shape?
>> Right. Right on top of it, like always. Thank you. Uh library, uh the committee is going back to the architect because the bid that came in, you know, I talked about uh they want to finally do all the bathrooms in the main building and main
library and uh they came with a unbelievable figure which they're not going to accept. we have the money for it, but uh they're they just think that uh we can just sign
a check off and we're not going to do it. um substance abuse. Uh I keep on mentioning the you know with our program in the Copeland uh the celebrities for the celebrity day are picked and uh if
you want to be there that day it's going to be incredible uh showing and there's going to be a basketball game between some of the celebrities and the students and teachers. Uh that's uh the substance abuse. Uh historical society
haven't uh brought up anything yet. They're just trying to figure out what's going to be doing once the weather hits and the programs that we're going to set up. And that is it. >> Councilman Wovich, >> I'm uh I'm just going to comment more on
the uh resolution with the ICE resolution. Uh I had only one minute before, now I got three. Right. >> Yeah. >> Uh the the executive order restricts cooperation between local law
enforcement and the federal agency and there are real consequences to that. I know at least two cases myself where a person that was an illegal was arrested and yet because the local municipality can't notify ICE, that person was released and then he killed a mother and
three kids or two kids. And so so there's real public safety danger to this uh by not cooperating with with with federal agencies. Uh the ICE agents that are operating right there on the streets
and people see them go in there and 10 20 of them. If local law enforcement agents were allowed to cooperate, all you would need is two agents to go to county jail, pick the person up and transfer them to their custody. But because of these these policies, that's
why they have to go out there 10 20 and and uh make the arrest they have to make. So, you know, I I think it's also disingenuous when I hear some people make comments about ICE agents and World War II and concentration camps. You
know, being me being an immigrant from Poland and I actually visited Ashwitz several times and I understand the history of it. This is this is not it. So, so please please this is completely wrong and like I said disingenuous to
compare ICE agents to Nazis. That's all I have. Can I can I have time? >> No, no, no, no. Hang on. Please, please, please, please, please. >> I'm asking you I'm asking you not to. >> I'm asking you not to. >> Council President, can I have his remainder time that you can use?
>> Sorry. No. Uh, Councilman Sberg. >> Thank you, Council President. First again, thank you, Al. Uh I live in one of the hillier sections of Hiburnia and you guys are lifesavers. So I appreciate that. Um few reports regional board of ed unfortunately their meeting was scheduled for last night so that didn't
go well. Went virtual was not able to connect. Next meeting will be March 16th. Hopefully have a report on that. Uh Mars County Commissioners few items uh first resolution 2026121 the arrive together grant program
$283,000. Uh this is a grant for alternative responses to reduce instances of violence and escalation. Uh Rockaway Township, many other towns uh are partnered with mental health association of Essex and Mars and are eligible for this grant. Uh I believe it's open now
and will be remaining open until the beginning of 2027. So if we can partake in that. Uh second was resolution 2026123. This was simply the commission uh adopting our ordinance 25-17 which we approved November 25th uh converting
Strouba Lane to the oneway to Slope Drive. So it's official now in the county. Um really one final piece with the uh county commissioners. Um I finished my term with open space trust fund uh at the end of 2025. It was a great opportunity to contribute to my
county and my town. Um over the weekend I received a letter from the county commissioners. It appears that one of their ATL large members is unable to complete their term. So they elected me to finish out their 2026 term uh as an ATL large with open space trust fund. So again I hope to uh again continue to try
to do great work and preserve as much space as possible. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Um I know that Mr. Yachphano and the mayor both have reports. I'm still holding you to the same three minutes
>> and I'm going to ask when Mr. Yachfano speaks that nobody from the council interrupts him and let him have his three minutes. Mr. Yachano. >> Thank you, Council President. As to Mr. Kelly, Councilman Kelly's questions about the Albert, uh, I know very little. Uh, my firm was
not part of the defense of that lawsuit. Uh, I visited the courtroom uh, just because I was interested in the opening arguments of council. I was there for maybe three or three three hours or so on one day. Um I do know the case was
handled by council appointed by the township's insurance carriers. Um I really just have no personal familiarity with what has gone on since the verdict was rendered. Uh so I won't speculate.
>> Your invoices show your invoices. You build >> Mr. Kelly. specifically not to interrupt and Mr. Kelly, >> well, we're sitting here. Listen to our labor. I mean, our account council, please respect the council. This is exactly what I was talking
about. There is processes and procedures to be followed. You were out of order. >> I appreciate that, Mr. Mr. Mayor. You have your attorney that says that he had no >> Mr. Kelly, you're out of order yet again. >> Uh, >> did you invoice that Mr. Kelly? I want
to respond to uh Councilman Quinn's uh question. So, back in June of 2024, the council approved the uh conceptual plans for Peterson Field. So, the next step was to get um formal drawings done. Um and it's been timeconuming. So, after we
presented to the council, we got feedback from several council members. Um we then put out I think a survey monkey to the public. We solicit feedback from the public in terms of things they'd like to see. There's been a lot of back and forth um with the
design requirements because of things like wind shear because we're putting up a a gazebo, not a what's it called? A pavilion. And uh so the footing sizes, all these things. There's been a lot of back and forth and and frankly my um approach with things like this is I
don't want to rush into something and and make a decision. So, we're taking our time to make sure we get it right. When we get to the phase where we have the final plans approved on that, we'll certainly present them to the public. The other thing I wanted to say was to the new council, the three new council
members. If you want to see the conceptual plans that the former council had approved, we can set up some time for you all to come in and and go through them at your leisure um with myself and the township engineer. So, um I hope that answers your question. Um,
everybody's complimenting Al. One, one of the things none of the council members talked about, it's Al Also sends out the weather alerts to everybody. >> So, it's like as the day is going on, all a sudden, look at my phone. Oh crap, there's another email from Al. And it's like now it's 18 inches. And it's like,
so, but you know, and and it just it's like uh Councilman Kelly was saying, Al's out there just being a leader. And I think I said at the last meeting um and that's why I think we one of the main reasons we have a lot of people that work hard but they have a leader
that sets an example for them. So appreciate all you do Al. >> Um >> I I'm going to get uh with Shannon tomorrow uh Councilman Kelly and all your feedback on the veterans. I like all the ideas. Um, and I have talked to the mayor, the burrow, um, Chief Sher
and Chief Pepper, and they're evaluating the whole, they're doing a little analysis over the whole dispatch idea you had. >> Oh, great. >> I don't want to, again, I want to be our idea, though. It's just >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So, yes. So, um, we're going through that, too. I wanted to give you an update on that. Um,
senior prom registration is still open for two more weeks. Um, it's a free event. Um, I think the only thing is you need to bring some type of non-p perishable food for the Rockway food pantry. Um, had a MAC bowling event um with the police over the weekend. Uh,
great turnout by um our police force and by the burough police force and the burough mayor and actually um those who live in Birwood. Um, Principal Rivera was there. I think that she's I think she started this year. She's already involved in the community and going to
things. My time's up. Okay, I have about six other things, but that's okay. Um, thank you. >> Can we make Can we make an exception? Can we make an exception for the mayor to finish the six other items? >> Mr. Kelly, please let me run my meeting. >> Um, sorry.
>> Final thought. Um, all the council members now have their budget books. So, thank you uh, Miss Balmiri for get putting those together. Thank you, Mr. Mayor, for helping put those together. um as as in years past, if you have questions on it, um we have a couple of
weeks before the meeting, please put the questions uh in an email to our uh business administrator and CFO so we can get you the proper information today. Mr. Selberg did a great job with that. I then will take those answers and forward them to everybody. Uh in a couple of cases, I know Mr. Sacket, the he had the
same questions, so we'll just save a lot of time. Um so I ask you guys to do that. Thank you very much. Motion to adjurnn by consensus. All in favor? >> I meeting a journey. >> I'm sorry.