WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=Zwg1bidgmRQ

Part: 1

1
00:00:36.239 --> 00:00:51.280
All right. >> Good evening everyone. I'm going to call the meeting uh to order as soon as I get the prayer out. So with that, if everyone would please

2
00:00:51.280 --> 00:01:09.840
stand for a short prayer and a salute to our flag. Almighty God, grant us the wisdom to make those decisions that are in the best interest of all our residents. May the heavenly father of us all bless those who have given the ultimate

3
00:01:09.840 --> 00:01:25.759
sacrifice and service to our nation. And may he watch over and protect our service men and women now guarding the gates of freedom. to our flag. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic

4
00:01:25.759 --> 00:01:48.000
for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Uh with that, a statement of publication. Uh Jessica, >> take notice that this regular agenda meeting of the mayor and burough council being held on this 20th day of July 2026

5
00:01:48.000 --> 00:02:03.920
has been posted and advertised in accordance with open public meetings act chapter 231 public law 1975. >> Roll call. >> Council persons Blumare >> here. >> Kesi >> here. >> Novak >> here. Rios >> here. >> Sarski >> here. >> Zabowski

6
00:02:03.920 --> 00:02:18.080
>> here. >> Okay. With that uh I'll ask for the approval of the prior minutes. Council President >> move the following minutes of the mayor and council be approved on roll call vote subject to correction if necessary and they are the March 10th 2026 March

7
00:02:18.080 --> 00:02:35.680
I'm sorry June 4th 2026 June 15 2026 June 15 2026 June 30th 2026 June 30th 2026 and finally July 7th 2026 >> Is there a second >> second roll call >> council person Zabowski >> yes

8
00:02:35.680 --> 00:02:49.200
>> yes >> yes >> yes Rio IOS. >> Yes. >> Narski. >> Yes. >> Okay. Tonight, one of one of one of the great things is we are going to uh be recognizing some of our courageous

9
00:02:49.200 --> 00:03:07.920
firemen. Uh with that, due due to my um good progress, but slow progress uh on my back operation, I've asked the council president to take this portion of the meeting over. So, if the governing body would go up to the rail, please. And if I could have Dan McCabe,

10
00:03:07.920 --> 00:03:42.720
Guy Crowder, and James English come forward, please. >> Well, first and for foremost, thank you all for coming tonight. What a wonderful good-looking crowd you all are. And uh it's not often that we get this many people at our council meetings. So I'm

11
00:03:42.720 --> 00:03:58.799
glad that in fact you are here tonight for what really is a special special opportunity to recognize first and foremost one of our firefighters, volunteer firefighters, but also two members of our community who came to service for their own members of their community today. So there was a fire on

12
00:03:58.799 --> 00:04:16.799
Scott Avenue. Uh when was that? >> June 14th. June 14th and it was a tra it was a tragic fire. Um >> my old home >> in fact it was Hervey's old home. So uh and Hervey is here as our council leaison to uh public safety as well. And

13
00:04:16.799 --> 00:04:32.880
we're going to present these proclamations. But before we do that, first and foremost, uh I want to give thanks to all our first responders, particularly our fire department, our first aid or our EMS, as well as our police auxiliary. uh they do a tremendous effort for all of all of us

14
00:04:32.880 --> 00:04:56.800
in our communities keeping us safe. And if you don't mind, can I have a a round of applause for those? Keep that in mind as well because later this evening we're going to be we're going to be uh passing a referendum or an issue for referendum coming up and you're going to be able to give your

15
00:04:56.800 --> 00:05:11.919
thanks in November to those fine folks as well. But at this point, I'm going to turn this over to Chief Masterson and if you can explain what took place and the heroic actions of both the firefighters and our members of our community, I'd appreciate it. Yes, sir.

16
00:05:11.919 --> 00:05:28.080
Well, first and foremost, I'd like to thank Guy Crowder here and James English neighbors uh to I believe it's Mr. and Mrs. Beckett and uh the unfortunate event that happened on on Scott Avenue that day. They went in, seen the smoke.

17
00:05:28.080 --> 00:05:44.960
Uh they alerted the the ne their neighbor inside the house, woke her up and got her out of the house and got got her to safety. Uh, safety officer McCabe [clears throat] arrived first on scene. And he went in to search for anybody else. Not making it too far because it

18
00:05:44.960 --> 00:06:01.199
was very overwhelming, but uh, all in all, very uh, all three of you very brave and I appreciate everything that you did for that day. And we have two, you know, we have no loss of life, no injuries that day. It was it was a good turnout at the at the end of the day

19
00:06:01.199 --> 00:06:26.479
with the uh, firefighters and the neighbors. and Harvey, if you could do the honors of reading the proclamations. Uh, Bora Sale certificate of recognition presented by the mayor and Bor Council to Denm.

20
00:06:26.479 --> 00:06:42.479
The Boa Saveville wishes to recognize your commitment to aiding to aiding a fellow individual in need and risking it all to save a life. Your efforts have enriched us generously because a community possesses no greater treasure

21
00:06:42.479 --> 00:07:15.199
than the dedicated service of its people. Congratulations Boville certificate of recognition presented by the mayor and bor council to Edward Jacobs. The Bo of Sville. >> That's the wrong name. But [laughter]

22
00:07:15.199 --> 00:07:32.319
>> what's the other one, father? >> Okay. So, this was for James English. Actually, we'll have to get a new one. >> We'll have that there. >> Okay. >> Got credit. >> There you go. >> We'll do [laughter] we'll get we'll get it. >> Formerly known as Ever

23
00:07:32.319 --> 00:07:48.639
>> aka uh Bor Seville certificate of recognition presented by the mayor and bor council to Guy Crowder. The BO of Sarville wishes to recognize your commitment to aiding an a fellow individual in need and risking it all to

24
00:07:48.639 --> 00:08:15.280
save a life. Your efforts have enriched us generously because the community possesses no greater treasure than the dedicated services of its people. Congratulations, Mr. English will move that field. But >> so once again, we want to thank you very

25
00:08:15.280 --> 00:08:50.480
much for all of your efforts on behalf of uh of B Sable, our fire department, our first aers, and of course our wonderful residents. Congratulations and thank you for gentlemen. Don't put that away because we have

26
00:08:50.480 --> 00:09:13.120
cast. >> Um, it's okay. He he can face you. We got a full house. Okay, that being said, uh, our next is is a presentation from the Comcast company. So, if you would come up and make your presentation,

27
00:09:13.120 --> 00:09:29.440
you could face us or you have a full house. These are going to essentially be your customers. So, if you want to take the mic and and uh >> Right. >> Okay. We ask the questions. >> Yes, absolutely.

28
00:09:29.440 --> 00:09:45.760
>> They're your potential customers. >> Mayor, my name is Rob Clifton. I'm the uh manager of government affairs for Comcast Cable here in the central part of New Jersey. With me tonight is TimWigley, our director of construction, Ron Bogard, our supervisor of construction, and Alex Navaro, our

29
00:09:45.760 --> 00:10:03.760
director of business development. The reason we're here tonight is Comcast is interested in bringing competition to the burrow um for cable television service as well as internet service um to your residents. Um, Comcast, uh, is a

30
00:10:03.760 --> 00:10:20.000
Fortune 5, Fortune50 company. Uh, and we're throughout the United States and we have a large presence here. Over over 400 municipalities here in New Jersey we provide service to, including many in Middle Sex County. Uh, what we're

31
00:10:20.000 --> 00:10:36.800
uh, Sarville is a unique situation where half of the town is served by two cable providers, another half of the town is only served by one cable provider. and in that section of town and um that's the section of town we will be seeking a

32
00:10:36.800 --> 00:10:54.240
cable television franchise in. Um and how we go about this is first we would need a rightaway agreement from the municipality in order to apply for a systemwide franchise from the board of public utilities. And once that is

33
00:10:54.240 --> 00:11:08.240
granted, then we could begin the construction process and provide um information uh uh provide services throughout that section. Um since we know that another internet provider has

34
00:11:08.240 --> 00:11:23.760
applied for and received an RO uh recently, um we have some proprietary information that we will provide to the administrator that he can provide to the council and the attorney. And upon After

35
00:11:23.760 --> 00:11:39.519
tonight, our attorney uh will be in touch with the burough attorney to talk about the right of ways agreements that we've gotten in other municipalities as well as show some of the other um information um about the project. So

36
00:11:39.519 --> 00:11:55.040
again, we uh Comcast we are investing in New Jersey. Now, how do we move the slides? >> Okay, next. So this is Comcast today. Uh our products, Xfinity, Sky and NBC

37
00:11:55.040 --> 00:12:12.639
Universal. We provide uh different types of services such as Xfinity Mobile uh products for our businesses. Uh NBC Telmundo are part of our Peacock the streaming service as well as Universal uh theme parks and Universal Studios.

38
00:12:12.639 --> 00:12:29.200
Next, uh what we're bringing, we're an industry leader in technology. Our network is built um on an advanced uh architect that allows for low latency and strong reliability. We are

39
00:12:29.200 --> 00:12:45.760
consistently upgrading our network and we'll do that uh if we are permitted uh the ability to serve here in town. And we have a proven track record. We've connected millions of homes. We're we pass over 31 million homes throughout

40
00:12:45.760 --> 00:13:05.920
the United States. Next. So, our network is next generation fiberbased wired broadband. We deliver affordable, reliable, secure service. We now have Exfinity Mobile uh which combines America's largest and reliable 5G network um and an expansive network

41
00:13:05.920 --> 00:13:21.920
of Wi-Fi hotspots throughout our um markets. And we also are a leader in business services for internet phone service. Next, please. Um on affordability we pro we have a program with over 10 million customers

42
00:13:21.920 --> 00:13:36.560
in it called internet essentials and essentially what that is was a lowcost high-speed internet for individuals first that were on the free and reduced school lunch program but now have been expanded to other types of social social

43
00:13:36.560 --> 00:13:53.600
services including veterans and uh families that might receive some sort of government service. And that's a product that's $14.95 a month uh for highsp speeded internet service. Uh we have the most reliable Wi-Fi network in America, 99%.

44
00:13:53.600 --> 00:14:11.600
Um and 77% of our issues are mitigated without a technician ever having to come to uh home or a business. We have over 2,000 sub cyber security professionals working for Comcast and we have fought off over 34 billion cyber attacks.

45
00:14:11.600 --> 00:14:29.120
um over the last year alone. Next, please. Uh we've been investing all over the United States with over 200 billion to expand expand our broadband service um and create more jobs here in the United States. Uh in 2025, we alone we've

46
00:14:29.120 --> 00:14:45.600
connected over 1.25 million new homes and businesses. Uh lift zones are uh we have 1,250 of them throughout the country. These are uh we work with nonprofits to provide uh free Wi-Fi. Um

47
00:14:45.600 --> 00:15:01.680
this this was kicked off during COVID when schools and libraries and things were closed. Uh we worked with social service organizations throughout the state and the country to provide uh places where people could go and connect with their devices for free Wi-Fi so

48
00:15:01.680 --> 00:15:19.040
they could stay in touch uh do homework things of that nature. Uh, as I said, 650 million homes and businesses uh passed. We are the nation's largest internet provider. Uh, over the last 10 years, we've invested over 80 billion dollars in our network and our business

49
00:15:19.040 --> 00:15:35.839
customers is over 2 million um more than any other provider. Next, please. um our investment in New Jersey, we have 2.7 million homes and businesses that we pass, our our network passes, and we are connected to 1.3 million of those homes

50
00:15:35.839 --> 00:15:54.240
and businesses. Uh we've invested over $2.5 billion in the New Jersey workforce, almost a billion dollars in our network and technology improvements. Uh we have over 53,000 total network miles and o almost a million or 998,000

51
00:15:54.240 --> 00:16:09.199
Exfinity Y spot uh hotspots which means if you're a customer you go around and you can get our Wi-Fi on these hotspots. Next please. So we're we're building uh in New Jersey now. This is one of the areas as I said

52
00:16:09.199 --> 00:16:26.000
we're interested in uh serving. Uh we are working we have federal government money to connect some of the places throughout the state that currently don't have service. Uh it's interesting to believe that in in a state that is as built out as New Jersey, there are

53
00:16:26.000 --> 00:16:42.079
places where people currently cannot get internet service and we are working on that next. So actually this slide is uh wrong and I've just been updated. It's actually 6,700 residential passings and 121 res

54
00:16:42.079 --> 00:16:57.360
commercial passings here in Seville. That's where we're proposing to build. Um, next, please. So, we will work obviously work with uh the team here in Seville preconstruction. We want to uh make it

55
00:16:57.360 --> 00:17:13.199
as quick as possible to provide uh your residents with a choice for cable and internet service. Uh so working with the municipality um and our other utilities to get pole permits and things of that nature. Um

56
00:17:13.199 --> 00:17:30.080
we'll make that a priority. Next, please. Um again, working uh to try to get rid of some of the barriers, working with your construction department, your engineer on permitting. We've already begun working with our uh pole

57
00:17:30.080 --> 00:17:47.039
providers. We do not own any uh utility poles ourselves and obviously tonight we're here to seek a rightaway agreement. Next, please. And that's the presentation. I'm Rob Clifton again, the manager of government affairs, and I can open up to any

58
00:17:47.039 --> 00:18:02.240
questions, >> okay, or concerns you may have. The first thing that I'll uh I'd request is that you make arrangements with our business administrator to give this presentation to the public at our adult activity center. It's pretty common for

59
00:18:02.240 --> 00:18:17.600
people coming in uh with these kind of projects to do it. You pick a night, you bring you bring your different stations, you have your your people at the stations, the public it's open to the public and absolutely >> uh it's it's it's fairly effective. It's

60
00:18:17.600 --> 00:18:34.080
a more relaxed atmosphere and they can ask questions, come back with more questions. Just be prepared. The number one question they're going to ask is what's the cost, >> right? >> What will they pay? >> And there are [clears throat] various tiers, uh, internet tiers, faster speed, obviously, you pay more. Uh, there are

61
00:18:34.080 --> 00:18:49.919
different tiers of the cable television as well and with Xfinity mobile as well. So, we'll have all those answers available. >> Okay, that being said, are there any questions from the governing body? uh which area are you looking to cover? >> So, um I'm going to provide the

62
00:18:49.919 --> 00:19:04.960
administrator with a map tomorrow. It is proprietary. Since it is a competitive area, we don't want to disseminate that right now to the public, but for the purposes of the rightway agreement, if there is an agreement that the town's willing to give us, that will be made public. But tomorrow, I will send a list

63
00:19:04.960 --> 00:19:20.240
of streets as well as the map showing the area. I can say this that currently the area of town that only has one cable television provider is the area of town we're looking to invest in. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Are you under a timeline and um to

64
00:19:20.240 --> 00:19:36.720
do this public uh presentation um we are in the we're at the end of July, >> correct? >> And and there are a fair amount of people that take vacations in August. Does it it is it adversarial for you to do it in September? the public hearing

65
00:19:36.720 --> 00:19:53.440
with the residents or >> um we would like to try to get it done as soon as possible but if that's going to be the the timeline that the town ins what what is the what is the feeling of the governing body August or September >> August

66
00:19:53.440 --> 00:20:08.240
>> sooner the better >> yes >> are we all okay so we'll do it next month we'll do it in August okay but you know the business administrator and he'll be your point of contact >> excellent Yes, Mary. >> I just wanted to ask does it matter

67
00:20:08.240 --> 00:20:24.160
whether the areas that only have one are underground wiring? >> Um about uh hold on for the percentage is about about 27% are underground. >> I don't >> and the rest are aerial. >> Okay. So, but you would there would be

68
00:20:24.160 --> 00:20:39.600
no problem with you doing the underground wire. >> No, not at all. And I have two construction folks here in case there's any more specific than that. But no, we've done underground every in most places we are. >> So would it be safe to say you could put it together in a couple of weeks?

69
00:20:39.600 --> 00:20:53.600
>> A presentation? >> Yes, >> certainly. It'd be very similar to this. >> Yes. >> All right. Well, so go over the exact dates. We'll advertise it. Uh >> terrific. >> Pretty well throughout the burrow. And um

70
00:20:53.600 --> 00:21:10.480
we we we're glad that you chose Sville to try to do some business in. >> Thank you, Mayor. I appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Any other questions? I mean I will >> the public portion will be >> Alberto >> uh if this goes through is there plans

71
00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:26.799
for an office in Serville? >> No, we have currently we have an office on Route 18 in East Brunswick. What we've done is we've gone away from the old traditional payment centers where people would come in and pay to and we've sort of gone into the Verizon

72
00:21:26.799 --> 00:21:43.679
uh thing of having a store now where you can come in, sit on a couch, try the products and services and there are people there that can answer the questions, provide you with the equipment. You can also do the old traditional things like pay your bill there. But for the most part, it's it's and it's a retail store now

73
00:21:43.679 --> 00:22:01.480
like Apple, like AT&T, like Verizon. Okay. Any other questions? >> All right. We look forward to seeing you in a couple weeks. >> Thank you, Mayor. I appreciate it. >> Thank you. If you'd hand that mic back. >> Thank you. >> Call. >> All right.

74
00:22:01.679 --> 00:22:18.880
>> Uh so with that, we're going to go into executive session. Before you start, because we have a lot of new people here tonight. Uh so if the burough attorney would explain executive session. >> Uh yes, m. Yes, mayor. Um there are certain uh aspects uh pending litigation

75
00:22:18.880 --> 00:22:34.080
uh potential litigation, contract negotiations that the uh mayor and council cannot discuss in open public otherwise it would reveal comp you know proprietary or uh other uh negotiation points that would then hinder the municipality and not allow them to

76
00:22:34.080 --> 00:22:50.240
adequately negotiate or handle litigation if it strategy if it was open public. So, we're under the law and the open public meetings act, we're allowed to go into executive session, discuss those items, and we have three items under potential and pending litigations that we're going to be discussing. >> How long do you think we'll be will be

77
00:22:50.240 --> 00:23:05.360
in? >> 20 to 30 minutes, it says. >> Anybody needs a break or smoke, the bathroom, there's a good time to do it. >> And don't forget, you could sit up here in the front front rows opened up. Plenty of seats. >> Okay? Whereas [clears throat] section 8

78
00:23:05.360 --> 00:23:21.120
of the open public meetings act chapter 231 public law 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances and whereas this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist. Now therefore it be resolved by the mayor and burough council the burough of several county and middle sex state of New Jersey as follows. The public

79
00:23:21.120 --> 00:23:37.679
portion of this meeting is hereby adjourned in order that the governing body may meet in close private session for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to discuss the following matters. Attorney client privilege pending litigation board of education bus depot. Attorney client priv attorney client privilege potential litigation. Water

80
00:23:37.679 --> 00:23:54.480
contamination. Attorney client client litigation mosque. Following the conclusion of said closed session, the governing body shall reconvene the open portion of this public meeting to consider any other matters which may be properly brought before it at this time. The nature and content of the discussion which occurs in close session shall be made public at

81
00:23:54.480 --> 00:24:10.480
such time as the need for non-disclosure no longer exists. This resolution shall take effect immediately. >> Is there a motion? Council president. >> Motion. Is there a second? Motion made seconded. Roll call. >> Council person Zabrowski. Blair. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Novak. Yes.

82
00:24:10.480 --> 00:28:32.720
>> Rios. >> Yes. >> Narsi. >> Yes. Okay. >> I'm going to ask for a motion to return. >> So move. >> Roll call. >> Council persons Novak.

83
00:28:32.720 --> 00:28:48.159
>> Yes. >> Lumare. >> Yes. >> Liy. >> Yes. >> Rios. Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Okay. Next item. Mayor, uh, as a result of our executive session discussion on the, uh, pending,

84
00:28:48.159 --> 00:29:04.320
um, litigation with the board of education, I am going to request that the council adopt a resolution authorizing the settlement of that litigation subject to final um, um, finalization of the settlement agreement, release, stipulation of

85
00:29:04.320 --> 00:29:19.919
settlement, and a resol a formal written resolution that will be adopted at the next council meeting uh, to be negotiated and um, finalized by the attorneys. Um but that I would need a motion to officially authorize me to move forward with that settlement and um

86
00:29:19.919 --> 00:29:36.240
the uh the agreement and the resolution will be uh on the agenda and available to the public at the next uh council meeting. >> John, I'd like to make that motion. >> Second roll call. >> Council person Zabowski, >> yes. >> Yes. >> Kesi,

87
00:29:36.240 --> 00:29:52.559
>> yes. >> Novak, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Sarski, >> yes. Next item. >> All right, I got to read. Um, budget resolution 2026-184 2026 budget amendment. Whereas the local

88
00:29:52.559 --> 00:30:08.320
municipal budget for the year 2026 was introduced on the 13th day of April 2026 and where is the public hearing on said b said budget has been held as advertised and where is it is as desired to amend amend said approved budget. Now therefore it be resolved by the mayor and burough council of the burough of several county and middle sex New Jersey

89
00:30:08.320 --> 00:30:24.799
that the attached amendments to the approved budget for the calendar year of 2026 be made. Current fund anticipated revenues general revenues surplus anticipated six million from 6 million to 6.5 million

90
00:30:24.799 --> 00:30:42.279
miscellaneous local revenue section 8 licenses other licenses sewer user fees 5,850,000 to 6,900,000 total section A local revenue includes total of group three items for 10,142,520

91
00:30:42.559 --> 00:30:57.279
to 11,19 92,520 miscellaneous revenue section C8 $850,000 to950,000 miscellaneous revenues 300,000 to 402,000

92
00:30:57.279 --> 00:31:26.240
Arsenal Trade Center pilot 1,819,4740 2,257,29869 total section G special items of revenue 7 800,6043 8,340,311.72 summary of revenues surplus anticipated

93
00:31:26.240 --> 00:31:48.320
6,6 million5 Total section A 10,142,520 11,192,520 total section C dedicated uniform construction fees 850,000 to 950,000 total G special items of revenue

94
00:31:48.320 --> 00:32:20.840
7,800,6043 8,340,311.72 total miscellaneous revenues 29,91,16948 31,681,420.77 receipts from delinquent taxes 1,100,000 to 1,200,000. Subtotal general revenues 37,91,16948

95
00:32:22.640 --> 00:32:50.559
39,381,420.77. Amount to be raised by taxes for support of municipal budget. A local tax for municipal purposes including reserve for uncollected taxes. 43,754,87944. 41,81,628.15. Total amount to be raised by taxes for

96
00:32:50.559 --> 00:33:23.760
support of municipal budget 46,000 I mean 46,311,720.78. 43,638,46949 total revenues 83,42,890268,19,89026 public buildings and grounds police salary and wage I'm sorry, public buildings and grounds 987,851

97
00:33:23.760 --> 00:33:48.559
to 939 939,25 51 police salary and wage $15,819,776 $15,694,776. Police other expenses $725,660,000. Road repair and maintenance salary and

98
00:33:48.559 --> 00:34:18.639
wages 1,34,6119 $998,611. Sanitation, salaries and wages 1,373,9751,357,975. Sewage treatment and disposal salaries and wages $863,185 $854,185.

99
00:34:18.639 --> 00:34:46.679
Vehicle and equipment maintenance salary and wages $628,160 $615,160. Uniform construction codes salaries and wages 1,116,3251,45,925. Total operations within caps 53,589,476125,26,47612

100
00:34:54.240 --> 00:35:25.240
total operations including contingent with caps 53,626,47612 to 53,243,47612 salaries and wages 28 28,954,8412 to 28,636,8412. Other expenses including contingent 24,671,635,635

101
00:35:28.640 --> 00:35:50.160
to 24,66,635. Total general appropriations for municipal purposes within caps 61,55,000. $588.112 to $60,672,00058812. Subtotal general appropriations

102
00:35:50.160 --> 00:36:18.640
80,894,99626 to8,511,99626. Total general appropriations 83,42,890.26 26 to83 million19,89026. Be it further resolved that two certified copies of the this resolution shall be filed for with in the office of the director of the division of local

103
00:36:18.640 --> 00:36:33.040
government services for the certification of the calendar year 2026 local municipal budget so amended. >> Okay. At this time I'm going to open uh the budget to the public for questions or comments specifically on the budget.

104
00:36:33.040 --> 00:36:50.480
Are there any questions or comments on this item? Being no questions or comments, I'll entertain a motion. Mary >> to close the public Go ahead. >> Make a motion to close the public portion. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call.

105
00:36:50.480 --> 00:37:06.240
>> Council person Novak. >> Yes. >> Bumare. >> Yes. >> Lissi, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Zorski, >> yes. >> Zabowski, >> yes. Okay, now we >> Mary second motion. >> Okay, I make a motion to adopt the uh

106
00:37:06.240 --> 00:37:22.079
amended the budget amendment. Budget amendment >> as read. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Council persons Novak. >> Yes. Lum mayor. >> Uh I'm going to say no because of the fact that we have a budget crunch and we

107
00:37:22.079 --> 00:37:45.240
having we are creating uh a lot of new positions. Uh some of them are management positions. So my vote is no, >> Lisi. >> Have we lowered it anymore significantly?

108
00:37:46.720 --> 00:38:04.079
>> We are down from the introduced was 25 cents and we're down to 13 cents. >> Every time we come back we lower it a little more. Right. >> So is this the last >> this the bottom line? This is it. >> Yes. >> Sorry. >> He's asking if this is the bottom line.

109
00:38:04.079 --> 00:38:21.520
>> This is the bottom line. Yes. >> And yes, >> Rios. Uh my vote is yes. Um, I just wanted to add that we've been going back and forth

110
00:38:21.520 --> 00:38:36.960
uh trying to uh for the increase not to be so so much and we have decrease uh by a lot. Uh the next step for this to decrease it any

111
00:38:36.960 --> 00:38:53.680
further was firing and we didn't want to do that. So yes, this is the bottom line. My vote is yes. Dinarski, we're >> going to vote yes. We spent enough of time on this. It's It's July.

112
00:38:53.680 --> 00:39:11.440
It's July. The budget has to be adopted. We have bills to pay. We have responsibilities. We can't help being the responsibility we have, the bills that come in, whether it's the compensation for health insurance, the MCUA bills. We got hit

113
00:39:11.440 --> 00:39:26.800
with some bills. I don't want to raise the taxes. I live in this town. We have multiple homes. We don't want to spend the taxes on this, but we have to. So, my vote is yes. >> Zabrowski. >> Yes. And what comment? This has been an agonizing process, and it should be an

114
00:39:26.800 --> 00:39:42.160
agonizing process to go to have an initial increase of 25 cents and get it down to 13. That's agonizing. And it's not none of us are satisfied that we've gotten to that last number. But the fact is that our fixed costs, not our

115
00:39:42.160 --> 00:39:57.200
discretionary costs, but our fixed costs have skyrocketed. And that's particularly our our health care issues. And and most of you all know what that's about. And we have a number of our employees who are making less these days because they're contributing more. Um

116
00:39:57.200 --> 00:40:14.560
and it and having that problem creates the fact that we have less discretionary money that we can spend. And this year, in fact, we're we're spending less discretionary money. And yet we have a big budget increase. We do have to work harder. Uh we have to find other revenue sources besides simply property taxes or

117
00:40:14.560 --> 00:40:30.480
grants because you can't be on your I can't be on your shoulders all the time and you can't count on all the grants because they don't come in every year. Uh and this is one of the big reasons why we have the increase this year. And the only other thing I would ask is that our process begins a little earlier and I know that was difficult because it

118
00:40:30.480 --> 00:40:45.280
didn't >> Absolutely. Yes. I agree. >> Right. Uh, and I know the numbers didn't come in early, so that was a that was a problem. And I would ask that it be a little bit more open and transparent, and I don't mean this in a negative way. Uh, I'd like to see more of our

119
00:40:45.280 --> 00:41:01.040
directors be involved in that direct discussion with us. I know that they are with our staff, and I would just want to thank our staff for doing all that uh, and the work that they did, but I think we always like that interaction with them as well, so we can kind of see where they're at with that. So, with that said, I do want to thank our staff

120
00:41:01.040 --> 00:41:17.599
for their hard work and their efforts, our directors as well. And I know there's a bunch of employees here tonight that I know that you've had a lot of anxiety and stress over the last couple of months, and I apologize for that because that was certainly unwarranted. Um, we appreciate your service, and again, yes.

121
00:41:17.599 --> 00:41:34.880
>> Now, we need a motion to adopt the 2026 municipal budget and resolution 2026 185. >> So moved. >> There a second. Roll call. [clears throat] >> Council person Novak. >> Yes. And if just give me a second to

122
00:41:34.880 --> 00:41:50.960
just I just you know this was not an easy thing to do and we had three large increases but the largest one was $3.2 million increase in medical benefits. That's over what we normally pay. And

123
00:41:50.960 --> 00:42:07.920
that's basically we we absorbed all of the other this is not a spending increase. if you I'm sure you weren't able to keep up with everything she was saying, but a lot of the department costs have actually gone down this year or remained level. So, this wasn't a spending issue. This was an increase in

124
00:42:07.920 --> 00:42:22.319
cost and everybody worked very very hard. So, basically, the only thing we're left with is the 13 cents, 13 plus cents that the and it's strictly the increase of the medical benefits.

125
00:42:22.319 --> 00:42:41.280
>> Yes, Mayor. Yes, >> Liy. >> Yes, >> Rios. >> Yes, >> Zarski. >> Yes, >> Zowski. >> Yes. >> Okay. Uh, resolution received from the several planning board following a

126
00:42:41.280 --> 00:42:57.359
meeting held on July 15, 2026, finding ordinance number 15-26 consistent with the burrow's master plan. I just need a motion to receive and file that. >> Council President, >> make a motion receive and file. Is there a second? Call. >> Council person Zabowski. >> Yes. >> Bumare.

127
00:42:57.359 --> 00:43:13.119
>> Yes. >> Lissi, >> yes. >> Novak, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Zarski, >> yes. >> Okay. Public hearing on the following ordinance. Ordinance number 14-26. Ordinance amending the burrow's training requirements for new fire department recruits. >> Councilman Bmore.

128
00:43:13.119 --> 00:43:27.599
>> It's open to the public. >> Oh, I'm sorry. Uh, at this time, I'll open I'll open amend ordinance 14-26 to the public for question or comments on this ordinance. Are there any questions or comments? There being none, I'll entertain a

129
00:43:27.599 --> 00:43:45.200
motion. Councilman Blmore. Yes. Oh, yeah. The our our little thing that >> motion to adopt. >> Yeah. Um I move uh the public hearing be closed, the ordinance adopted on second and final reading, and advertised according

130
00:43:45.200 --> 00:44:00.720
to law. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. [clears throat] >> Blair. >> Yes. Pissi, >> yes. >> Novak, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Narski, >> yes. >> Zabowski, >> yes. >> Public hearing on ordinance number

131
00:44:00.720 --> 00:44:17.280
15-26, ordinance establishing an 18month moratorum on the development of data centers throughout the burrow of Sarville. Open it to the public. >> At this time, I'm going to open the public portion. Are there questions or comments on this issue?

132
00:44:17.280 --> 00:44:36.560
Yes, sir. When you when you come up, if you'd state your name and your address, please [clears throat] evening. Uh my name is John Shu. I'm residing at 219 West Shirley Avenue, Edison, New Jersey. And even though I'm

133
00:44:36.560 --> 00:44:52.880
not a resident of Saraveville, I'm a person that really cares about the health and welfare of our communities uh throughout uh throughout our county. Um and I I do support a a ban on the AI AI data centers and I do support a permanent ban. Uh first thing we need to

134
00:44:52.880 --> 00:45:10.319
talk about is AI data centers are different than the existing data centers uh in our country. Uh AI data centers are being used for uh to for uh their language learning models. Uh they're being used to um do largecale uh language uh acquisition. Um and this

135
00:45:10.319 --> 00:45:27.119
requires a lot more electricity and as a result requires more water to cool down the data centers. Uh this was the main reason why our electricity prices has increased so much uh these past two years. AI data centers account for 7% of the electricity usage in our state right

136
00:45:27.119 --> 00:45:44.560
now. Uh it's projected by 2030 if things continue it will be 10%. Uh so that's a huge amount of electricity usage. Um the you know water is actually one of the cheaper ways to cool down the electric uh AI data centers and unfortunately these corporations many of them are

137
00:45:44.560 --> 00:45:59.520
large tech companies uh they profit greatly uh from the AI data centers and the cheapest way for them to cool down data centers is with the water and we've seen in other states uh you know in Republican states uh it doesn't matter this is not a partisan issue uh in in

138
00:45:59.520 --> 00:46:16.240
Georgia for example uh where the AI data centers they pollute the water residents uh after the data centers are completed, they have uh soot and soil uh coming out of the water. Uh so there's this a big issue. There's not a lot of regulation on AI data centers and they make

139
00:46:16.240 --> 00:46:31.119
promises and they don't have to keep those promises what we've seen. Uh so it is always good to be ahead of the ahead of the scale. Um I know we want to discuss an 18-month mortorium. I'll just say 26 MOSAP municipalities have passed

140
00:46:31.119 --> 00:46:48.079
a full moratorium. And there's also an issue with um from from our research uh title uh title 40 of the municipal land use law that uh moratoriums and on bans can only be six months uh and they can

141
00:46:48.079 --> 00:47:05.359
only be done so as a um a as a result of a imminent imminent health threat. Uh so you can b you couldn't pass a 18-month ban. uh but you also face the the challenge the possibility of that being challenged in court. Uh so it's always

142
00:47:05.359 --> 00:47:21.359
better to do the ban and a ban is actually just to inform the people the ban is actually a change in the ordinance laws. It's uh um and so that's why you can't really do it temporarily and there's a reason that the state um outlawed that and we found that out

143
00:47:21.359 --> 00:47:36.240
because we went to the old bridge council meeting one of the uh Republican council people uh brought this up brought this to attention uh because the Democrat wanted to pass an 18-month mortorium and the Republican actually pushed it to make it a full ban and the

144
00:47:36.240 --> 00:47:50.800
law and the lawyer explained it and the uh the head of the DP I think explained it. Um yeah. Yeah. So, you know, there's there's the water usage, electricity usage, uh there's the noise, there's

145
00:47:50.800 --> 00:48:07.680
going to be homes uh within a mile radius of possibly the the Hercules. Um, and that's always that's always a um life um uh you know that's that's that's that

146
00:48:07.680 --> 00:48:23.280
makes that makes just life really really difficult for residents who live close to those those areas. Um another thing is obviously um areas need of development they do not fall under the ordinance law so they can have they can build data centers there too. So that's another thing that all residents need to

147
00:48:23.280 --> 00:48:47.280
be aware of and you know be on top of. Um, yeah, that's that's my my thing my speech. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Ch. >> Thank you for the time. I'm pretty sure I don't I don't have much to say. >> I need your name and address, please. >> Sure. My name is Gabriel Sadino. Uh, I

148
00:48:47.280 --> 00:49:04.800
live in 40 I live 48 Avenue uh in the Melro section. And um my parents my parents took me out of the urban area. I was born in Elizabeth and they they brought me over here into Sarave and I had such a great time growing up over

149
00:49:04.800 --> 00:49:21.040
here, graduating over here. I put every I put a lot of people on my back and I took them out of this town and we did better. My voice is gone right now because I'm also an artist. I do music and I've been traveling. I've been on tour right now. But I just want to say

150
00:49:21.040 --> 00:49:37.200
that we have such beautiful natural resources right here in this town and we should not we should not be abusing it. So whatever whatever centers is going down whatever is going to suck our natural resources we have a beautiful reserve we

151
00:49:37.200 --> 00:49:54.240
have a a beautiful nature preserve we should be we should be accepting and and holding those things down not utilizing them for other things not for like uh taking our resources we should be having beautiful land in this town and that's

152
00:49:54.240 --> 00:50:10.280
the things that that's basically what I want to say because I grew up out here out of the ghetto out of the freaking urban area and my parents wanted me to grow up in a nice beautiful area. And that's all I want to say. >> Thank you, Gabriel.

153
00:50:23.760 --> 00:50:38.720
>> Hi, Allison Hornbeck, 7 Driftwood Drive. Um, I'm going to come at this from a different angle because everybody understands about the environmental issues with these data centers and I'm going to ask that you um think about your financial responsibility to the

154
00:50:38.720 --> 00:50:56.000
residents of Saraveville. So AI has has been shown to not be profitable at this time and I think we all know that. So it's being propped up by government contracts and I'd like to speak on behalf of the generations that are coming behind us. I have my son with me

155
00:50:56.000 --> 00:51:13.440
today and I will tell you that I'm just really nervous. So sorry. Um Gen Z does not want AI. They don't want these data centers but most of all they don't use AI the way you think that they do. So there was just a recent Gallup poll and

156
00:51:13.440 --> 00:51:30.000
it said employee genzers echo these concerns relative to the workplace. As more say, the risks of a of AI outweigh its benefits and trust in AI assisted work is lower than in exclusively human output. So, they're very worried about

157
00:51:30.000 --> 00:51:48.319
their futures. Um, Gen Z's use of AI is mostly steady, but the enthusiasm is declining and skepticism is is increasing. um they are very worried about AI's effects on their cognitive skills particularly tied in areas to

158
00:51:48.319 --> 00:52:04.480
thinking, learning and creativity. And Lord knows we can't lose that in that generation coming up behind us. Um heavy AI users show decreased problem solving and critical thinking development. So think about that. Who are going to be your future

159
00:52:04.480 --> 00:52:22.720
residents in this town? Um, and if they can't have, you know, good jobs, where are you going to get your tax revenue from? Um, concerns among Gen Z that AI may undermine skill development appear to be outweighing its perceived efficiency gains. So, big tech

160
00:52:22.720 --> 00:52:38.480
is in a rush to put that data center up. But what happens when the need isn't there and these companies walk away from these buildings and now we are left with the blight? Is that something that we really want? 5 10 years goes by so

161
00:52:38.480 --> 00:52:53.119
quickly. You all know that, you know, we're all older here. Let's not [clears throat] pretend it's it's something, you know, it's not. So, please let's stop and think. Do not jump on this bandwagon because you're being pressured to build

162
00:52:53.119 --> 00:53:09.599
these data centers. The residents of Seville deserve your agency and care and consideration, not big tech. We do. So, I'm asking you to write and pass a resolution for a permanent ban on data centers. So, I just really want you to

163
00:53:09.599 --> 00:53:36.720
sit and think about this before you take this vote tonight, please. The the younger generation behind us, they don't want it. So, please permanent ban. Thank you. Good evening everyone. My name is Bailey

164
00:53:36.720 --> 00:53:54.079
Bernie Bailey and I live on one Bailey place here in Sarville. You like that? We've been around a long time. As a matter of fact, the Bailey's have been here since 1863 and we care. We care about this town.

165
00:53:54.079 --> 00:54:10.240
I, you know, I'm used to coming up here and saying, you know, like I was director of public works, but that's not accurate anymore because I'm retired. But I'm here because I care about this town. I devoted my life to it, and I love it.

166
00:54:10.240 --> 00:54:27.920
I'm no expert on data centers, but I've lived here longer than any of you, frankly, and what's happened in the past 20 years, I'm not too happy about. I believe that we should have a ban, a total ban, and not an 18-month political gimmick. I care about my town, and

167
00:54:27.920 --> 00:54:44.800
that's why I'm running for council. And if the people of Seville are nice enough to agree with me when I'm sworn in in less than 6 months from now, I intend to support my fellow Democrats and calling for a complete and total ban on data centers in several as her

168
00:54:44.800 --> 00:55:03.760
proposed. Now, now I'm a prag I'm I'm a pragmatist. All right? And you have to be when you had the position that I had. That doesn't mean that in 10 or 15 years from now when technology catches up, all right, that we can't change that when we

169
00:55:03.760 --> 00:55:19.680
can when we can have some irrefutable conclusive evidence that the residents aren't going to be harmed, that our our our electric bills aren't going to be skyrocketing, that the water usage isn't going to be a problem for us, that we're not going to harm the environment, then

170
00:55:19.680 --> 00:55:40.559
if we can bring additional revenue in after technology catches up, by all means, Okay, that's fine. But not now. I mean I mean who who ever would have thought years ago that you could have a heart transplant or you could you could get a stent and could get back to work,

171
00:55:40.559 --> 00:55:58.640
okay, within a day a day or two. I just don't think that the time is is now. And I'm a I'm afraid I'm afraid that if we don't do a permanent ban that we're gonna, you know, we're g somehow the horse is going to try and get out of a barn before we can lock the door.

172
00:55:58.640 --> 00:56:13.680
I don't believe that several should be a guinea pig, all right, for these untested and untried environmental mon monstrosities. I'm not a scientist. I'm not an expert, but I have some good good hometown common sense. And I'm asking

173
00:56:13.680 --> 00:56:37.040
you, you know, people don't want these data centers and you're supposed to be representing the people. So I would ask you to consider that, you know, like what's the motivation? Is it money? Is it pilots? You know, good government

174
00:56:37.040 --> 00:56:53.839
is what we're supposed to be doing here. All right? And I know I know everybody up there. All right. And I'm I'm talking from my heart because this is what I truly truly believe. All right. So, if you have enough votes and you're going to pass the the the

175
00:56:53.839 --> 00:57:14.799
stop cap, the stop gap measure now, I guess that's it. But I really believe that there should be a total ban. Okay. Thank you. You're not a sidebar. I'd like to make one comment is thank you for passing the budget because the guys really need really need that so they

176
00:57:14.799 --> 00:57:33.760
could get their jobs done. Okay. Thank you very much. >> Please. Yes. >> Uh hi, my name is James Fulo. I live at 26 Rosewood. Good to see you. Um so I've grown up in this town. Uh, I left for a

177
00:57:33.760 --> 00:57:50.319
little bit and was in New Brunswick and found that it was just in congruous with what I've come to expect from a quality of life somewhere, somewhere where I'd like to make the best of myself. Um, the noise is a giant part of that in my

178
00:57:50.319 --> 00:58:05.839
experience. Um, and I grew up in this town volunteering at Seville BIC down formerly next to Bailey Park. uh seeing what's gone, how Cheesequake Road has, I'll say, evolved over the past couple of years, I feel like we've already had

179
00:58:05.839 --> 00:58:23.280
a decent chunk of this town's heart raised. Um, and the thought of that area in particular, and not to be too sentimental or idealistic about it, see that particular area of town turning into something that stands essentially to disenfranchise artists, uh,

180
00:58:23.280 --> 00:58:41.280
disenfranchised specialized workers. Uh, AI exists to replace the human element and to reduce labor costs for people that we will never interact with, people who will never really care about us. it. There's there's nothing nothing to gain

181
00:58:41.280 --> 00:58:57.119
for us in this town by having this here. They employ like two people, these facilities, on top of all of the outward negative effects. So, that's really all I have to say. Um, I'm also clearly in

182
00:58:57.119 --> 00:59:18.960
favor of a perma ban. Thank you. >> We're sorry. Anyone? Anyone on this side on on my left? Yes. Come on up, please. >> Like Von Weber Avenue, lifelong resident.

183
00:59:18.960 --> 00:59:35.040
Um, I am for the data centers. Um, show of hands. How many people have seen Hercules property and know what it's about? >> Not many. Right. >> Property. >> Yeah. Okay. I was there today. It's being demolished. If this data center is

184
00:59:35.040 --> 00:59:50.799
going to go where Hercules was, it's not going to impact any kind of environmental. It's you wouldn't want your kids playing there and stuff. You know, the land's contaminated. >> What facts do you have on that? >> I'll take take a >> Anyway, um [clears throat]

185
00:59:50.799 --> 01:00:07.599
so and as far as noise goes, um I've been to digital realy and with a phone it reads 65 dB, which is nothing. It's like a air conditioner in your house. It's not loud. Hercules made noise. You didn't hear it. So, another thing, Hercules, where it is, it's in like a

186
01:00:07.599 --> 01:00:24.480
hole. You don't even get cell service in there. It's, you know, it's it's tucked behind the woods. Now, they got the warehouses. That's even another buffer behind. You got Journey Mill Road, Bordon Town, Cheesequake. No houses. Closest houses are by Kramer Drive. Uh

187
01:00:24.480 --> 01:00:40.640
you also have the gun range back there. They hear the the bullets being fired, but you don't hear Hercules. So, um, and the the ratables is the big thing. Taxes are are going up. All this construction with, uh, all these apartments, kids,

188
01:00:40.640 --> 01:00:57.520
we're going to need more schools. I grew up in this town. There was a lot more schools back then. There's only 16,000 people in the town. Now, what's the population now? >> 27,000. >> There you go. So, they have to build more schools probably. So, uh, there's another good reason. And uh as far as uh

189
01:00:57.520 --> 01:01:15.280
environmental things, they the water they use is recirculated. So you're not wasting water. Uh the power they do take power, but they could also put out power if if they needed to in case of an emergency or something like that. They could back feed the grid. And um

190
01:01:15.280 --> 01:01:31.520
mayor last meeting you said something about disinformation and I believe that too that people are just trying to fill your heads with disinformation because China wants to get ahead of the game. Hey, these AI is going to happen, right? If they don't do it here, they're going to do it somewhere else. So, we might as

191
01:01:31.520 --> 01:01:46.880
well take advantage. >> Hey, >> yes. Eli, is the officer out in the hallway? >> Would you ask him to come in and keep order? Please. Oh, you're right there. Please keep order. Anyone who can't be civil, I'm going to ask you to step out

192
01:01:46.880 --> 01:02:03.119
because you people are civil when you get up to speak and you need to be civil when somebody else whether or not they're in agreement with you or not. >> So, I'm going to I'm just going to ask that everyone be polite to whoever is speaking because they're polite when you're speaking. >> Thank you.

193
01:02:03.119 --> 01:02:17.440
>> Go ahead. >> Also, it's not going to create traffic like the warehouses do. It's going to provide uh some permanent jobs after the fact, which is good. So, I'm for that. And then I just have some other issues uh with the town as

194
01:02:17.440 --> 01:02:37.760
far as uh the traffic lights, especially the one on uh Main Street Extension [clears throat] halfway down. >> I got to I got to stick with the data center. >> Okay, >> I'll be back. >> Thank you. >> Yes. Come up. >> Good evening. My name is Sharon Hansen.

195
01:02:37.760 --> 01:02:52.960
I live at Five Elizabeth Street. Um, I'm a retired uh teacher. I taught American history for a very long time. And one of the key things I taught my students was critical thinking and do your research and be able to back up your research

196
01:02:52.960 --> 01:03:09.920
with more research. Um, I have started to do some research on this topic and what I have found in my limited research, I'm not a technology person, is that the benefits don't seem to outweigh the negatives in

197
01:03:09.920 --> 01:03:27.520
the long run. And I am concerned about several issues. Um, of course, environmental issues, um, water consumption, electricity, um, construction. There's nothing to say that the jobs that will be created will

198
01:03:27.520 --> 01:03:44.720
actually go to Seerville residents. We don't know that the construction jobs will actually go to Seerville companies. But I also am really focused on the environmental impact especially for animals. And when we look at noise levels, we

199
01:03:44.720 --> 01:04:02.319
don't know yet what the impact is of these uh what they call hypers scale data centers, the really large ones they are building in Tennessee. They're concerned about one that's going up next to a zoo and what the impact is going to be. Um we can't say that yet. And I

200
01:04:02.319 --> 01:04:17.440
think Mr. Bailey made an excellent point that in 10 or 15 years the technology may be better and may have mitigated a lot of these issues. And the word mitigate stood out in a lot of the research that I did. And it said that

201
01:04:17.440 --> 01:04:34.079
the environmental impact should be mitigated by any company that puts up data uh centers. and they said mitigate water damage, mitigate noise and light pollution, mitigate the impact on social

202
01:04:34.079 --> 01:04:50.240
economic issues in a community. And that word mitigate bothered me because it means they know there are problems. And I'm in favor of a total ban until the technology is really worked out and we can fully address these issues. Thank

203
01:04:50.240 --> 01:05:15.440
you very much. Good evening. My name is Valeri. I live at 34 North Edward Street. Um my husband and I moved here just last year. We came from North New Jersey because we were looking for something different, something more familyfriendly. Um something a place that's quieter to

204
01:05:15.440 --> 01:05:31.920
settle down, hopefully raise our children here. Um, and from the first time when we came to Seville, we thought this was a community that we wanted to be a part of. And so that's why I'm here tonight. Uh, data centers aren't just another commercial development. This proposed

205
01:05:31.920 --> 01:05:49.119
ordinance itself acknowledges the concerns um about the electrical grid, about the water supply, the noise, the property values, and the character of our community. These are serious concerns, and they're not going to disappear in 18 months. I worry that the

206
01:05:49.119 --> 01:06:03.760
temporary ban may give residents a sense of security that only lasts for 18 months and does not offer families protection, long-term protection. Families should not have to come back here in 18 months and fight the same

207
01:06:03.760 --> 01:06:21.520
battle over again. Most of us that are for a permanent ban are not against growth and are not against technology. But growth should improve the lives of the people who already live here. It should bring opportunities, businesses, and spaces that strengthen the community. I don't believe that

208
01:06:21.520 --> 01:06:38.559
industrial-cale data centers do that. And I believe that this is a chance to decide what kind of town Serville becomes. With that being said, a permanent pro prohibition is not unprecedented. Other New Jersey communities have already chosen to protect themselves for the long term.

209
01:06:38.559 --> 01:06:54.559
So, I hope Seville will join them and help lead the way in protecting the communities that families call home. My husband and I chose Seville because of what it is today. I hope future families will still have the chance to make that same choice, not just 18 months from now, but for many years to come. Thank

210
01:06:54.559 --> 01:07:19.520
you. Good evening. My name is Lauren Parrot. I'm a resident at 42 and a half Quaid Avenue. Um I am a new resident to the town. So, just to share a little bit about myself with all of you, uh my mom's family, my my her grandmother lost

211
01:07:19.520 --> 01:07:37.039
four sons to World War II, two at Pearl Harbor alone. Uh my dad's family also served not in the US service, but to New Jersey. His grandfather moved the family from New York to New Brunswick to be able to work making wood paneling. He

212
01:07:37.039 --> 01:07:52.640
was a master carpenter that not only made wood paneling for cars, but worked on the Rucker banisters and woodwork that you can still see there to this day. Um, this men in my family worked in warehouses from Mac truck to the GM

213
01:07:52.640 --> 01:08:09.039
plant in Lynen. Uh the women in my both sides of my family are of strong, stubborn, and artistic stock. So to give you an idea, obviously I'm going not in favor of the data center. Um I don't see it doing anything good for our community. Uh

214
01:08:09.039 --> 01:08:26.319
that being my familial background, I come to the table with a lot of questions always. I never stop asking why and I never have and I never hopefully never will. And in asking a lot of questions leading up to this, I was able to speak with my aunt who worked for uh Bell Atlantic all over

215
01:08:26.319 --> 01:08:41.920
mainly stationed out of Atlanta, but all over the country and all over the world. She worked on things like lines and electrical grids. She's actually very familiar with reading schematics and she made me aware that New Jersey's electrical grid system is not set up to hold as many data centers are being

216
01:08:41.920 --> 01:08:56.560
discussed and put to be put in at this time. Uh I spoke to a friend who is a stock wiz. It's his fun. It's his hobby. He made me aware that the top five comp AI companies right now uh they only make

217
01:08:56.560 --> 01:09:13.279
$8 for every $30 spent. He pointed me in the direction of what economists are currently saying about data centers and that is they are holding their breath waiting for the burst similar to what we saw in the housing bubble crisis and in the dotcom error because they're hemorrhaging money at this point. It

218
01:09:13.279 --> 01:09:30.960
can't simply go on at this juncture in time. Just for those reasons alone, let alone the environmental facts, I think it's good to permanently postpone. We don't want to be stuck with a building that's going nowhere. We don't want to be stuck with something that's hurting our community, our electrical grid. To

219
01:09:30.960 --> 01:09:47.279
echo what everyone else has said, we don't know where the technology will be in 5 to 10 years, but I'd rather play it safe than play it fast and loose with what's going on in the borders of our town. Um, that's pretty much all I have to say. Outside of that, I know everyone

220
01:09:47.279 --> 01:10:03.199
keeps bringing up kids. Uh, technology has moved fast within my own lifetime and I think everyone can sit here and agree that children would be better off with their noses not so much in a tablet or a computer screen, but paying attention to the world around them and

221
01:10:03.199 --> 01:10:26.560
AI as a whole system is pulling away from that more and we should be really thinking about them and their critical thinking skills as we move forward. Thank you so much for your time. Hi, I'm sorry I'm very shy, but my name is Sarah Ahmed. I live at 48 R Avenue

222
01:10:26.560 --> 01:10:40.640
with >> Where do you live, Jane? >> Where do you What's your address? >> Sarah. >> I can't. >> Sarah. >> Oh, Sarah. I'm terribly sorry. >> Yes. No, it's okay. >> So, I miss your name and I miss your address. >> It's okay. 48 Roll Avenue.

223
01:10:40.640 --> 01:10:56.239
Yes. And I think AI is incredibly dangerous. I don't think you guys understand the full potential of what it can do. Um, for children and women and their faces and the databases that they

224
01:10:56.239 --> 01:11:12.560
have, I think it's incredibly dangerous in a whole. Um, as long as the fact that you guys are going to put it in our town, you're going to destroy what? We already are cutting down our resources for

225
01:11:12.560 --> 01:11:29.120
condos and other things that I mean, I'm sorry, we're overpopulated as it is. We have enough traffic. We have enough everything at this point. And you guys are just cutting down our resources, ruining our animals. I see foxes,

226
01:11:29.120 --> 01:11:44.800
rabbits where I live that have nowhere to go because you guys are building these these these condos and these things that we do really do not need, but it's for profit. And I understand that. I get that from the point of view, I guess, of

227
01:11:44.800 --> 01:12:00.400
what you guys decide to accept. But um I think that growing a database in our town is just even more harmful than 45 condos that you guys want to build [clears throat] and cut down forests and

228
01:12:00.400 --> 01:12:17.920
kill our animals and do whatever you guys would like to do. So I think that I don't want to say postpone. I would like for you guys to ban it. It's honestly disrespectful to this town. And

229
01:12:17.920 --> 01:12:36.480
what if your daughter's face was online on AI doing god knows what with that technology? How would you feel? You don't know what this stuff does online.

230
01:12:36.480 --> 01:12:55.679
Have you even went online and looked up AI or or even like introduced yourself to these databases and these these incorporations or anything? It's just as bad as oh one photo of my

231
01:12:55.679 --> 01:13:12.000
daughter her life is ruined. Just her face alone her life can be ruined. You have to think about that. your sons, your daughters, everything. So I I I don't I don't want this at all.

232
01:13:12.000 --> 01:13:28.000
I don't want it in my town. I don't want it even in this country. But that's not in my hands. So all I'm asking is that you guys considerate all that and hopefully think about it and just don't do it.

233
01:13:28.000 --> 01:13:56.960
Not a very smart idea. So that's all I have to say. Yes. >> Hi. Yes. Uh Benjamin Hornbeck, uh 7 Driftwood Drive. Um couple speakers back, I believe, uh a gentleman said that there was Chinese disinformation

234
01:13:56.960 --> 01:14:13.920
being spread about AI and data centers and all that. Um, and while I don't know a lot about China, one thing I do know is that currently they are going through a uh large economic crisis mainly caused by a housing bubble where all the people were forced by their government to only

235
01:14:13.920 --> 01:14:30.159
invest in housing. And once they built all this housing and no one lived there, that housing market crashed and all that, you know, let's put that money away for later. You know, this will be what we will retire on. All that disappeared. And what I'm seeing with AI is the exact same thing that China did

236
01:14:30.159 --> 01:14:45.120
with their housing where we have all these data companies who say in the future we'll have this great AGI. It'll solve all your jobs. You won't have to work. And they use this goodwill to put private companies which they say we're never going to use these for profit. We're never going to, you know, this is

237
01:14:45.120 --> 01:15:01.679
just for the good of humanity. And then two or three years time after they realize, you know, they're unprofitable and they need to get more and more cash, they, you know, uh, IPO onto the public stock market and they ask us, all the residents, you know, of the common citizen for money to subsidize them.

238
01:15:01.679 --> 01:15:17.520
And, you know, when we look at something like this data center being built in our town, what we're seeing is another subsidy to a company which is adding no value to the people of the country or to the people of the town. you know when we as it was brought up earlier these companies are not profitable and they

239
01:15:17.520 --> 01:15:35.040
will need to be re the the the data storage you know units the GPUs and all that that are being put in these data centers will need to be restocked in 3 years time but by the time they're restocked they're not being made profit so it's just a circular system being taken out of our tax dollars being taken

240
01:15:35.040 --> 01:15:50.400
out of our retirement funds for this thing that is that is not working and another thing that I would say that if we're on disinformation information here is that a lot of these CEOs for these companies they call people who are anti- AI anti- you know proliferation of tech

241
01:15:50.400 --> 01:16:06.239
they call these people terrorists you know they call them Antifa they say that these people are dangerous to our country and I would think you know as a a town council if someone is coming into your town and calling the people who are concerned about something terrorists and are bad mouthing them I would think I would not want to do business with those

242
01:16:06.239 --> 01:16:26.159
people you know the like we are the citizens of this town we live in this town and we are not terrorists We are not horrible people, but you know, you want to push it off in the future when we go and shake their hands. And I'm just

243
01:16:26.159 --> 01:16:41.360
thinking, you know, in a couple years time, we know the environmental damages. council, you know, in the past already has lawsuits pending from uh bus depots um you know, poisoning people uh from a mosque which was, you know, seeing that

244
01:16:41.360 --> 01:16:57.120
people on the council were double dealing with that mosque. And we know that people on this council were taking money from a billionaire, Harland Crow. And I'm just thinking, you know, if we know these billionaires don't care about the people of the town, we know that they need people of this town to survive, what are they going to do to to

245
01:16:57.120 --> 01:17:20.159
get this built? And I just don't think as a, you know, one of the future generations, I don't think that we need this in our town. Um, and yeah, that's that. >> Good evening. My name is Rodrigo Bonet and I am from 34 North Edward Street. >> Your name again? Your name again, sir?

246
01:17:20.159 --> 01:17:36.880
>> Rodrigo Bunet. Uh, initially I didn't plan on coming and talking, but I felt compelled to talk after hearing everybody talk. Uh, you've recently heard from my wife. Uh, we recently moved to Seville. Our plan is to hopefully grow a family here. Uh, somewhere healthy, somewhere safe, uh,

247
01:17:36.880 --> 01:17:53.760
and somewhere that's a good place to live. Now, I know we've heard many angles on how AI data AI data centers will impact our town. They impact society. And I'd like I'd like to look at it in two different lenses. One is financially and the other one is environmental and slash how it's going

248
01:17:53.760 --> 01:18:10.960
to impact our way of life. If we look at it financially uh we had a gentleman come in earlier and talk about how uh water recirculates itself and how data centers can uh won't use up many resources. But based on what data and limited data we have right now from

249
01:18:10.960 --> 01:18:26.960
existing data centers, uh it increases utility costs from electricity costs and water utility costs. So if you really care about our finances and you care about uh what it's going to cost the consumer or cost the resident, uh

250
01:18:26.960 --> 01:18:42.080
then you probably don't want to have a data center in your town. It will cost us more. Uh it'll increase our water cost. Why? Because yes, it does recirculate water, but you need to provide that water initially and that water evaporates eventually. Now,

251
01:18:42.080 --> 01:18:57.360
technology has maybe caught up or enhanced since those other initial data centers were looked at, but that technology is not there yet. The first gentleman that spoke spoke about technology. The technology is being developed. Um, what I think we need to

252
01:18:57.360 --> 01:19:13.120
consider is looking at the history of Serbil and Middle Sex County. There's a reason that this area of New Jersey has become known for being a super fund uh site and super fine super fund uh hot

253
01:19:13.120 --> 01:19:30.159
zone because we have a lot of councilmen like yourselves and council women like yourselves that jump to the opportunity for investment in your town and also to line your own pockets if we're being really honest. and you act without thinking about the

254
01:19:30.159 --> 01:19:46.719
future consequences because at that point you probably won't be living in this town. So what I'm saying is that let's not become what I'm saying is let's not become another super fun uh uh super fund site.

255
01:19:46.719 --> 01:20:01.199
Why? Because we don't realize what implications this technology will have on us. We've seen this before with manufacturing companies, with pharmaceutical companies. We've seen it time and time again with many companies with their own personal interests

256
01:20:01.199 --> 01:20:19.280
promising us a lot of money, a lot of prosperity without being fully honest about what exactly their manufacturing or their technology could do to negatively impact our society or our town. Now, from a financial

257
01:20:19.280 --> 01:20:33.840
perspective, right, I will say, and I'm a realist and I have looked at some of the data, it can increase some housing prices. So, let's I'm not coming at it at an angle where I'm not looking at both sides of the coin because there is some promise here. I'm not looking at it

258
01:20:33.840 --> 01:20:49.760
as uh we should completely uh ignore uh data centers because eventually we'll need them. Now, because to that point, what we should be looking at is how can we honestly um and safely invest in this technology

259
01:20:49.760 --> 01:21:06.320
in our town. And if you all can say, hey, we can we can invest in it with without having any negative negative impact, then I'm on your side to please invest in data centers. But that's not going to happen. Why? Because we don't have the data. And if you want to make an investment without looking at the

260
01:21:06.320 --> 01:21:22.880
numbers, if you want to line your own pockets, if you're going to benefit from it, I'm not saying everybody will, um, then we really can't control it. So, two things I'm asking for. One is let's not become another super fund site in 5 years and 10 years when we will see the true negative implications of these data

261
01:21:22.880 --> 01:21:39.600
centers. Um, and two, let's look at a permanent ban. Somebody mentioned that uh this 18-month ban is a little bit of a facade if you really think about it because if you really wanted to, you could repeal that. In order to make that permanent, and I want everybody to be

262
01:21:39.600 --> 01:22:09.440
aware of this, they need to change code. They need to change the law in the town. And uh we need to hold them accountable for this. With that, please don't let Savil become a super fun site. Um, hi council. Uh, my name is Emily Lam

263
01:22:09.440 --> 01:22:26.880
Monica, 3409 Washington Road. Uh, I am a fourth generation Saveville resident. Uh, if you've ever known a Bowman, that's my family. I'm a librarian as well. And as a librarian, I I frankly want to ask, why would Saravel want to invest in the decline of our kids' me

264
01:22:26.880 --> 01:22:41.600
mental health and critical thinking skills? AI users, especially those with still developing brains, have been shown to have decreased abilities to think and solve problems. I've seen this firsthand in my career. I have seen kids in the library affected by AI. I have read

265
01:22:41.600 --> 01:22:58.480
stories about kids who have lost their lives due to their relationship with AI. And I in good conscience can't support that in our town. Also, why would we destroy Seville's health and quality of life even more to line the pockets of

266
01:22:58.480 --> 01:23:14.480
tech billionaires? It's not guaranteed that the people of Serville will benefit monetarily or have a better quality of life at all due to a data center. We've already succumbed to massive pollution from DuPont. Our community cannot afford more. I've seen illness in my family, in

267
01:23:14.480 --> 01:23:31.199
family members of friends, in people I've known and respected for my entire life. Since New York and 26 other municipalities in the state have banned data centers completely, what's stopping us? As a younger person, this will not necessarily affect my health

268
01:23:31.199 --> 01:23:47.199
immediately, but will affect the health of several's most vulnerable like my family members over 90. And it will also affect those of nearby townships as well. I frankly think this is a selfish decision that will ripple outwards to those outside of the burrow. It is it is

269
01:23:47.199 --> 01:24:03.120
a decision that will not only affect Sarville but other vulnerable people in Middle Sex County. We want our people both young and old to thrive. How will this attract families to serville? How will this affect servil businesses? News about data centers is national and

270
01:24:03.120 --> 01:24:18.320
becomes national because of the controversy surrounding it. This will leave a stain on this town that I love. Do nothing good to our legacy. And the technology itself is not yet reliable. With what other people have said about waiting 10 years, 15 years, it's

271
01:24:18.320 --> 01:24:34.560
certainly possible that it will become sustainable for use. But as of right now, that is 100% not yet proven. Since it's not yet reliable, council, can I ask you to be reliable both to the people both in this room and in the township as a whole and consider a full

272
01:24:34.560 --> 01:25:08.080
ban on data centers in Saraveville. Thank you. Okay, good evening everyone. My name is Sheridan and I am a resident at 11 Ford and Court, Seville, New Jersey. Um, I have lived in Seerville for about four years and my husband has been a homeowner here since 2019. It's

273
01:25:08.080 --> 01:25:23.840
encouraging to see so many people here tonight because it shows just how invested we all are in the prosperity and livability of our town. Like so many here, I'm concerned about the environmental impacts of data centers. And while some would argue that the tax breaks and other economic benefits

274
01:25:23.840 --> 01:25:39.360
greatly outweigh the environmental consequences, I don't think that's true. We frequently hear about there being an AI bubble. And I want to spend a little time discussing why that this is the case. AI usage has no path to profitability and the impending crash

275
01:25:39.360 --> 01:25:54.239
will be in both business and speculative real estate losses. Let's put some numbers to it. I think most of us have heard by this point that open AI loses $57 million per day and Anthropic, the closest American AI company to reaching

276
01:25:54.239 --> 01:26:11.040
pro profitability has lost $3 billion in 2025 alone. Since around 2002 2022, these systems have been financed through venture capital. And while that made perfect sense in the development stage where these com we are firmly in the

277
01:26:11.040 --> 01:26:27.520
operational stage where these companies need to start turning a profit and prepared to move to the public markets. And how is that going? These companies have moved from flat rate billing to token pricing for their business clients and users have seen their costs skyrocket. One developer using GitHub's

278
01:26:27.520 --> 01:26:44.560
co-pilot noted that with this change he expects the increase in his monthly cost to be over 1,300%. The scale back is dramatic. Uber burned through its entire 2026 AI budget within four months and has imposed strict AI

279
01:26:44.560 --> 01:27:01.920
caps. Starbucks killed its AI inventory system because it could not distinguish between cow's milk and oat milk. And threearters of companies with customer-f facing AI interfaces have shut theirs down entirely. One month ago, both AI and Anthropic

280
01:27:01.920 --> 01:27:17.199
have started slashing prices with one tech journalist noting that this would be in the range of 10 to 40 times below actual cost in order to hold on to customers since even the largest companies cannot afford these costs and poor outputs. In addition to showing

281
01:27:17.199 --> 01:27:33.280
that there isn't a path to profit, these case studies studies show that demand practically disappears once these tools are provided at cost. And with Anthropic looking to IPO in October of this year and OpenAI not far behind, these companies will have to turn a profit or

282
01:27:33.280 --> 01:27:50.080
fold sooner than they might think. Now, where does the real estate part come in? In case it's not clear to everyone in the room, the compute need for these models is run in order to run is created through data centers. And not only is it one of the heaviest cost centers for AI

283
01:27:50.080 --> 01:28:06.800
companies, it's also one of the slowest builds. According to Pew Research, there are around 3,000 data centers in the United States right now. And as of April, more than 1,500 new data centers are in the development stages. It takes 18 to 36 months from data center

284
01:28:06.800 --> 01:28:24.000
announcement to operation. Optimistically, and all signs point to the fact that T tech companies have greatly overpromised their actual need. Meta announced two weeks ago that it would start selling excess AI AI compute. And this past Friday, Oracle

285
01:28:24.000 --> 01:28:38.719
had its credit rating downgraded from one level above junk. Specifically, due to its overinvestment in o open AI data centers, demand is starting to slow or at the very least least the fluid business

286
01:28:38.719 --> 01:28:55.600
changes. It's happening. If the signs are already showing that the buildout of planned data centers is already overstretched, why should we commit ourselves to building what will inevitably be a vacant warehouse at best and a money drain at worst? We need to be very realistic about the risks that

287
01:28:55.600 --> 01:29:12.199
these data centers expose us to. And I would rather seeville be a town for people and not servers. Taxpayers should not be on the hook for this economic failure. And I support a total ban of AI data centers. Any

288
01:29:17.360 --> 01:29:40.080
anyone on on this side of the room wish to make a comment? Ken. Thank you, Mayor Kenshi. Serville. Um, I've been around for a long time. Uh, my family is here from the 1860s. My grandfather was a freeholder elected in

289
01:29:40.080 --> 01:29:58.480
middle from Sarahville to Middle Sex County in 1895 and he built the building next door, the firehouse which we've had so many disputes and issues with. I've sat here all night and I've listened to the people and I believe the biggest issue

290
01:29:58.480 --> 01:30:13.840
with the people that are here tonight is fear. I think they're afraid of what might happen. and they're afraid of the unknown. We don't want to be guinea pigs here. I'm not against data centers. I'm I'm a

291
01:30:13.840 --> 01:30:29.840
guy that's involved in a lot of tech, a lot of stuff on Wall Street. I'm not against data centers. I'm against data centers here, here, and now in the places cuz we talk about the the preferred site for data centers would be Hercules property. And then we got to

292
01:30:29.840 --> 01:30:46.719
talk about Laurel Park and the Kaplan development which was in back of the old Roosevelt school. The condos that are off of Journey Mill Road. Uh they're too damn close. Uh people are worried about the water, the electric. I'm worried about the electric. I've lived here all

293
01:30:46.719 --> 01:31:02.320
my life and I can assure you it's a lot of years. I don't want to go into how many, but it's a lot of years. And I've never had so many electrical outages at my home in the last four or five years than I've had in 50 years before that.

294
01:31:02.320 --> 01:31:19.280
So we're going to bring in data. We have a third rate utility in this town. Uh not your fault, not my fault, but Jersey Central Power and Light is a third rate utility. That's a fact. Uh if you don't think so, read about them in their parent company. A lot of people in their

295
01:31:19.280 --> 01:31:36.480
parent company are in prison right now. Uh so the people are afraid they're afraid about the noise uh the noise from the places I just cited what and from some others and and we're also concerned concerned about the fact that this

296
01:31:36.480 --> 01:31:52.960
governing body does not have a good record of trust. You took away our zoom. You're giving people pilots like we give out candy for Halloween. Uh, somebody here was pretty much on target when they talked about Traml Crow. That's a

297
01:31:52.960 --> 01:32:09.920
multibillion dollar corporation. We gave them a pilot over here for the mega warehouses on Cheesequake Road. You know what that pilot they're estimating could cost the barrel over his 30-year life? The taxpayers over $100 million. And you sit here and talk about we need

298
01:32:09.920 --> 01:32:30.080
ratables. We we need ratables. We need full ratables. We need everybody in a pair of their to pay their fair share and to pay their way. Things have not gone well with this firehouse. There's been a lot of fighting over it. We're I don't want to

299
01:32:30.080 --> 01:32:46.080
get into that now because that's not the proper time. But we all know that they've tried for months and months as I said here to make it a historic designation. It's turned down. >> And you got to stick to the data. We're talking about the data. >> I I'm just talking about the lack of

300
01:32:46.080 --> 01:33:01.280
confidence in the burrow. Mayor, I know I'm not going to uh another >> come back. You you can come back for that. >> Yeah, I will. Another lack of confidence. I won't go into details, but it's this affordable housing. It's not an accident the mess you see here. So,

301
01:33:01.280 --> 01:33:17.120
the people, they fear what's going on. I'm concerned about it, but at my stage of life, look, I can get out of town if I have to. If it really gets that bad, and I don't have that much time, I'm worried about the young people. I'm worried about the the people who have

302
01:33:17.120 --> 01:33:31.440
families. I'm worried about the children. I don't want this to turn and there's it's not a good record here in Sarville. I don't want this to turn from Saraveville and to be renamed Developerville. And you know what they say about

303
01:33:31.440 --> 01:33:48.239
Developerville. Uh, everybody is familiar with the old song, I'm sure. Wasing away again in Developerville, searching for that next tree to assault. Some people claim there's a developer to blame, but really it's the politician's

304
01:33:48.239 --> 01:34:22.639
fault. Thank you very much. Anyone Anyone on on this side of the this side of the room? I have another Yes. Come on up, please. >> Hi, I'm Rick Zenna, 32 Patton Drive. Uh we spoke about this at the last meeting.

305
01:34:22.639 --> 01:34:41.199
Uh we were saying last time about we're talking about the water, the excess water, and you were talking about that there's going to be gray water that's going to be donated to us from some other company that's getting rid of it. And that's all fine until you have to

306
01:34:41.199 --> 01:34:56.880
pass that water out or it evaporates and then we need new water. and an electric uh people that live close to high tension lines have gotten a higher case of uh cancer than than people that

307
01:34:56.880 --> 01:35:12.800
don't. You mean it was right there in Green Valley. Um couple of people had cancer from the overhead power lines. So we're going to be bringing in more power lines. They say these things could take three three years to build.

308
01:35:12.800 --> 01:35:29.120
by the time they start till the time they finish it'll probably be outdated whatever they started with. It's moving so fast. So we're going to have either gonna have to add on to this thing. You know say it might start off small and then and in three years say well things

309
01:35:29.120 --> 01:35:43.920
have improved so much we got to make it bigger or like somebody said we're going to abandon it. That's it. So you're going to have the negative impact of excess water electric exposing people to

310
01:35:43.920 --> 01:36:00.080
potential cancer risk and the pollution. Now last couple of days there was supposed to be some really nice things going on in the sky. Anybody see any stars lately? You can't. There's so much light pollution now that you're going to

311
01:36:00.080 --> 01:36:14.880
bring in more stuff. We we'll never even see a star. and and the noise level. You can't say even though it's going to be down in a pit, you're still going to hear the hum about the animals. Got to think about that. And then and I know

312
01:36:14.880 --> 01:36:32.320
they say jobs. And I know that the the guys that are in the trades, you know, they could build this building, but once this building is done, there's no work for them. Be two or three be two or three people operating it. And and what

313
01:36:32.320 --> 01:36:47.840
if these guys in town don't get the job? What if the bid goes out to someone else? Like someone else said, it's no guarantee that our guys are going to get it or maintain it just like just like the phone company. You know what I mean? Like they they come in and and they they

314
01:36:47.840 --> 01:37:03.119
get a problem, the guys come in from out of town. You don't get local guys taking care of your your problems or your TV or your cable. And I see the other thing with your cable coming in, it's just another expense. They're coming low. And three months later, the bill's up there.

315
01:37:03.119 --> 01:37:19.199
When when cross country came in, I sold that cable was $7. $7.50 for cable. Was that $200 people paying? It happens with everything. And the tax break that was supposed to get, what are we getting out of the

316
01:37:19.199 --> 01:37:34.480
the the warehouses over there in the arsenal? What are we getting out of all the condos? What are we getting out of all the other apartments? every time we build and we take more land and it's supposed to be a tax benefit. When has

317
01:37:34.480 --> 01:37:50.400
anybody's taxes have gone down? Did anybody anybody's taxes gone down? Not at all. They're still going up. And education now when when I was in high school, we had split sessions. So that would be something to consider. If we get a lot

318
01:37:50.400 --> 01:38:06.639
more people moving into town before we start building more schools, we can go back on split sessions. We did it before. And the other thing too with kids coming into town, like everybody saying with the AI, it's not a good thing. You know, I mean, like, you know,

319
01:38:06.639 --> 01:38:22.719
these kids, they they can't even think. They're all on with their thumbs all the time, and the parents just like, you know, give a kid a two-year-old kid in a shopping cart playing with a a cell phone. They don't even they don't even think anymore. So, it's not a good

320
01:38:22.719 --> 01:38:38.239
thing. and and we're contributing to that by building a center that we don't need. So So I I don't understand like a couple of you guys last week voted for, you know, turn it down a permanent ban, but

321
01:38:38.239 --> 01:38:55.199
a few of you said, "No, let's just go with the one-year moratorum and we'll look at it again." Like somebody said, "Why go through this again? Let's just end it right now. We don't want it." I don't think a lot of people here don't want it. Maybe the contractors want it,

322
01:38:55.199 --> 01:39:19.280
but that's a temporary job. Once it's done, they're done. That's it. >> Anyone on this side of the room with a question? Dan. >> Good evening, Mayor Council. Dan Buchanan, 180 West Coast Street, Morgan

323
01:39:19.280 --> 01:39:34.719
section of Saraveville. Um, first and foremost, I am opposed to um a moratorum on the data centers. Um, however, I believe that you have no choice at this point to vote for it, but I request that you make a motion to amend it

324
01:39:34.719 --> 01:39:50.320
immediately and go for a full complete ban. Um, it preserves our right. Um 20 years ago, um the council [clears throat] voted on expanding the water treatment plant and we were sold the bill of goods that said that we'd be selling the water. Uh council meeting

325
01:39:50.320 --> 01:40:05.679
after council meeting, we hear that we are in a water shortage to preserve the water yet. We're still not selling that water. So, we were presented something beautiful and we got no nothing out of it uh beneficial to the town. We're supposed to be be bringing money in, but

326
01:40:05.679 --> 01:40:20.639
yet we didn't. Uh this this two will be the same. Um you know there's verified facts out there about water usage. Um you've heard the residents out here complaining about their power going out. Um these are things that are going to be

327
01:40:20.639 --> 01:40:38.159
continuing to go on. An 18th month moratorum. You know there's going to be two elections at that point. There's going to be five new people potentially. I'm not saying that you'll lose your elections but there's potentially five new people going to be up here. Don't punt to them. You're listening to the residents now. Listen to them and vote

328
01:40:38.159 --> 01:40:59.920
for them. The people that you're supposed to represent. We hear we hear that the the you know the power goes down and there'll be a buzzing sound from the generator, but there's also going to be cooling fans. There's going to be a constant buzzing and the residents are going to be

329
01:40:59.920 --> 01:41:16.639
hearing that. There's verified fact that that too is going to lo make them lose sleep in the close vicinity. We have residential areas. We have schools. We don't want to put it in this town. It's too compact as it is. Let's let's put it to someone else. Um

330
01:41:16.639 --> 01:41:32.639
what else? Again, I am opposed to AI data centers in here. I I think that for the benefit in preserving our right, we should pass this moratorum but immediately do an amendment to ban it for good. U the

331
01:41:32.639 --> 01:41:48.000
residents, the majority of the residents in this room tonight have spoken, Councilman Zabrowski, you heard on your poll that the majority of the residents don't want it. There's no reason. We heard last council meeting um that there was discussions about a potential pilot

332
01:41:48.000 --> 01:42:09.760
there. So that concerns me that there's an application pending and if that's the case, get this moratorium in now and then rewrite it for a permanent ban. So thank you. >> Is there anyone else that would like to comment on this ordinance?

333
01:42:09.760 --> 01:42:26.000
There being no one else, uh, entertain a motion to close a public portion and vote on the ordinance. Mayor Right. I move the public hearing be closed. The ordinance adopted on second and final reading and advertised according to law.

334
01:42:26.000 --> 01:42:44.159
>> Is there a second? >> Roll call. >> Council person Zabrowski. >> Yes. And with comment. First and foremost, thank you all for coming out tonight and being as courteous as you are and as eloquent as you are in coming up and speaking about this ban. Um quite

335
01:42:44.159 --> 01:43:01.040
frankly, um it it's wonderful to have a packed house and be able to hear everybody's thoughts on this and understand we're in agreement. A ban is a ban. Uh understand that 95% of Sarabel already has a permanent ban. So you're

336
01:43:01.040 --> 01:43:17.040
talking about a small piece not small but a portion of property in Sable that was already an industrial track that for since 2012 a data center was a permitted use that permitted you that data centers have

337
01:43:17.040 --> 01:43:35.520
been around since the 50s. So while I think a ban, a permanent ban may at some point come down, I think the most logical reason and the most thoughtful thing is to have the 18-month mortorium or the temporary ban. And why? Because a

338
01:43:35.520 --> 01:43:51.920
permanent ban could be changed tomorrow just as much as the moratorum can be changed. Don't be fooled in the idea that once you ban it, it doesn't come back. Because just as Dan said that five new people can come back and say we're going to vote for it and you can shake your head and say no, but I'm going to

339
01:43:51.920 --> 01:44:07.679
tell you they both we both want the same thing. We don't want to harm our town. We want to keep it pristine and do the best we can. The way we're doing it is a little bit different. We all and that's okay because we sometimes we we disagree

340
01:44:07.679 --> 01:44:25.119
about that. But we all agree that we don't move forward until we understand what this is about. And we need to build a toolbox and we need to build a regulatory policy and specifications to understand everything that impacts our town and we

341
01:44:25.119 --> 01:44:41.119
can do that. Can we do it in 18 months? Maybe not. Then you have to extend it. But can we start today to do that? The absolute answer to that is yes and we should be and we should be doing that for all you those gener generation Z's who are here today and want to continue

342
01:44:41.119 --> 01:44:58.159
to stay here. So you talk about mitigation and I agree you have to mitigate if you're going to be able to produce specifications. It has to be something that would fit. If it could fit in our town talking about AI hyperscalers, I can't imagine that

343
01:44:58.159 --> 01:45:13.760
that piece of property would even be able to handle a hyperscaler. But there are other types of AI data center, excuse me, data centers that are out there as well. And I'm not saying we want any one of them, but we need to know what could potentially happen to

344
01:45:13.760 --> 01:45:29.840
our town. And that's why I advocate for being smart and trying to go forward in understanding what they are and put those rules in in effect. Because if you do it all for one ban, you're going to end up with a town like Andover who's already in litigation because they have

345
01:45:29.840 --> 01:45:46.239
nothing to back the reason why they said no. I'm saying build the toolbox. build the information that you've all been asking for and say this is the only thing that'll exist and this is the only way we can do it and I think we can do it at that time through 18 months or if

346
01:45:46.239 --> 01:46:01.760
it takes longer it takes longer but if you do a permanent ban today with nothing to back it up you put the burrow in a bad position I don't know if it was Ken or whoever else said that we use usually lose lawsuits but you know why because

347
01:46:01.760 --> 01:46:17.920
normally we act too quickly and we don't think about it And then what happens? Then someone else controls what can be built. And we don't want to do that. We want to control what can be built in our town. I've lived this town my entire

348
01:46:17.920 --> 01:46:35.119
life. My family grew up here. I grew up here. My kids are keeping roots. So I understand exactly what you want to say, James. My kids went to school with you. And I'm glad to see you here today. So I am voting for the 18month moratorum. And that's the reason for my vote for doing

349
01:46:35.119 --> 01:46:52.639
that. And I hope you're curious to understand that's my reasoning as much as I'm curious to understand and appreciate your own reasoning as well >> Blue Mayor. >> Well, um I think everyone here and

350
01:46:52.639 --> 01:47:09.920
everybody in this room understands that 18 months is a force. Why is it a force? because everybody's talking about you know this or that this or that but the bottom line is with the new we don't have any way of cooling these GPUs and the CPUs and the systems

351
01:47:09.920 --> 01:47:24.800
and then we don't have anything coming down the pike that's going to take 18 months to figure it out. Okay. So, uh to say that we're going to be sued because we don't have anything to back it up. I don't think that's correct

352
01:47:24.800 --> 01:47:39.440
because we do have everything to back it up with. Number one, we don't have the room to accommodate a data center. Um, it's going to everything that you guys said in terms of how it's going to affect us negatively.

353
01:47:39.440 --> 01:47:55.520
I agree with um there's not one positive when it comes to data centers. Everybody keeps saying jobs, jobs, jobs. Yes, of course, when they're building it, there's going to be jobs. Okay. But once that happens, once it's done, it's going to be what? Maybe you're going to need Well, you're going to need security,

354
01:47:55.520 --> 01:48:11.040
physical security to keep people from, you know, >> about tax revenue. >> What tax revenue? >> Hey, hey, hey, >> you have to you have to keep order. So, I'd ask that you the public portion was the time to come up. Now, it's the time

355
01:48:11.040 --> 01:48:26.560
to take the vote and to listen what the different council people are saying. >> Yeah. the tax revenue, jobs, jobs, jobs. Nonsense. Okay, we all know that there's not going to be any jobs here. Uh um I don't understand why we would want to

356
01:48:26.560 --> 01:48:43.520
have something in our town that will affect the quality of our lives. Okay? I mean, we we are building through everything. It seems like there there's an empty space. Let's put something there. Okay? And right now it makes no sense unless we can amend this to like

357
01:48:43.520 --> 01:49:06.080
Dan says to uh have a permanent ban. My vote is no >> policy. >> Well, I'm going to be a yes right now because it's um it is a ban and it's going to happen tonight.

358
01:49:06.080 --> 01:49:24.239
We amend it. It's what weeks away. What's our next one? A month. So, this is an 18. John makes a lot of sense. You're going to jump in and it could hurt us in the long run. It really can. So, uh right now I'm a yes. I'd

359
01:49:24.239 --> 01:49:39.040
like to collect all the information cuz just like uh mostly everybody out there, we're not data center experts. So, let's figure it out together. And we

360
01:49:39.040 --> 01:49:56.719
already voted bipartisanly when we introduced this. Let's finish the job. Let's ban it now and find out what what's the next steps cuz 18 months, doesn't matter who's up here, they'll have all that information.

361
01:49:56.719 --> 01:50:12.960
So, let's just just hold up. There's no applications there. So I I think a lot of people forget this. You know, it's one piece of property here. No applications.

362
01:50:12.960 --> 01:50:32.960
So let's figure it out together. So that's I'm sorry. That's my answer. >> No back. >> I I am really very happy with so many people coming out. I mean, I I haven't seen this in years and I've been sitting up here a long time. Um, I'm going to

363
01:50:32.960 --> 01:50:50.639
vote yes. But here's the reason. In this state, once the application is presented, it's too late. So, if this isn't passed tonight, they could go before the anybody could go before the planning board with an application and then we can just pound salt because it's

364
01:50:50.639 --> 01:51:06.080
too late. That's what this state allows. Well, I am not in favor of this at all. I don't like the whole idea of having a time limit on it. If we pass a ban, Councilman Sabrowski is right. We could

365
01:51:06.080 --> 01:51:22.480
change that, but guess what? We'd have to bring it back before you people with an ordinance. This just disappears in 18 months, and we never have to bring it back before you at all. If it's an total ban, then if five years, 10 years, or

366
01:51:22.480 --> 01:51:38.000
even a year, if we decide to do something, we got to get bring it back to you. It's got to be an ordinance that is has first reading and then the next the next meeting is a public meeting before we get to vote on it. if this 18

367
01:51:38.000 --> 01:51:54.159
months because it has a time limit on it, it just basically is taking it out of the uh resident's hands about speaking about this again. So, saying it could change with with a total ban, yes, it could, but we'd have to get your permission again to do it. So, I am

368
01:51:54.159 --> 01:52:17.760
going to vote for the 18-month ban and like former Councilman Buchanan said, I would like to see immediately afterwards uh a motion for a permanent ban. Thank you. Rios. >> So, uh, um, I'm being forced to vote yes

369
01:52:17.760 --> 01:52:34.239
on it. Um, because I rather I rather have 18 than nothing. And like Mary said, I want to, like I said, I I rather have 18 months than nothing. But I do have a couple

370
01:52:34.239 --> 01:52:50.560
questions. Uh the ordinance says the bureau uh needs time to conduct engineering studies, fiscal anal analysis, and planning review. Are we are we ready to do that right away or going to how long are we are we going to wait to do those things because we have

371
01:52:50.560 --> 01:53:10.000
18 months? >> I don't mind asking answering that question because I can tell you that Sarah has already begun to have that discussion. I know prior to you u taking a position on Sarah uh that was part of the discussion and and some people were right when they said that Sarah was

372
01:53:10.000 --> 01:53:27.760
discussing it in the the pop possibility that that Hercules would be looking for a data center at that location. So the job of the economic redevelopment agency is specifically to do that to determine what might be good or bad and then what

373
01:53:27.760 --> 01:53:44.880
could be the rules and the specifications along with our engineer and our planner and all our other uh professionals and if we don't have a professional uh we would get a professional on that. Um but I I think that to say that we wouldn't and we

374
01:53:44.880 --> 01:53:59.360
haven't um that would be that would not be correct. >> Okay. And then uh as of July 20th uh has any complete development application or redevelopment application for a data center already been filed with the

375
01:53:59.360 --> 01:54:24.400
bureau as of today? I can say mayor is not that I'm aware of as legal counsel but I I don't usually get involved until it gets further down the road but I'm not aware of any. >> So if we pass this tonight will be protected. >> Yes. >> Then my vote is yes >> still a yes for the data centers. I'm

376
01:54:24.400 --> 01:54:40.719
learning a lot more. I am super happy with all the amount of people here and it's not only the people that I see here. No matter where we go, people bring up the topic of data centers. I don't know enough about them yet.

377
01:54:40.719 --> 01:54:55.920
That's why we put the 18 months on it. I feel we're going to know a lot more within the next year to have this whether we ban it or not. But at that time, I'll know my vote better than I do now. So, I'm still a yes right now.

378
01:54:55.920 --> 01:55:14.719
Right. Next item, >> public hearing on ordinance number 16-26, ordinance amending the bureau's rules and regulations for burough parks and recreational areas. >> Okay. At this time, I'm going to open the public portion for questions or comments on this ordinance. Are there

379
01:55:14.719 --> 01:55:34.080
questions or Yes, please come up. [clears throat] >> Uh hello. Uh, my name is Edward. Uh, 19 Chadam Square, Parlin. Um, bear with me. This is all connected. Um, I'm a lifelong resident of Saraveville. Uh, parts of my family have lived here for more than three generations. Uh, my

380
01:55:34.080 --> 01:55:50.639
roots run deep here. I came here regarding the AI Denniseters, but um, I have something important to talk about. It was recently announced that the rece we're going to talk about this ordinance right now. >> Yes, I know. I'm talking about the [clears throat] parts. Um, it was recently announced that the burrow

381
01:55:50.639 --> 01:56:06.719
received a state grant for improvements at Felix Park. I lived on Marsh Avenue for nearly 30 years. My family lives there. I visit the park often, more than most. I'm there I'm there nearly every day. I visited the place regularly for over half of my life. I know the park intimately. I'm an amateur naturalist

382
01:56:06.719 --> 01:56:23.280
and bird watcher. I could create a list of hundreds of species that visit or reside in the park. from as large as muskrats and turtles to as small as tree hoppers and as rare as Ross' goose, a migratory bird that was documented in the county only three times. We have resident species like the Cooper's hawk

383
01:56:23.280 --> 01:56:39.679
nesting in the park and controlling rodent populations. Lots of native plant uh plant species have proven vital for our ecosystem and are present here. I reached out to the burrow two years ago when landscapers cut down swamp milkweed by the pond. The pond supports endangered uh the plant supports

384
01:56:39.679 --> 01:56:56.400
endangered monarch butterfly caterpillars. Someone from the council who was affiliated with the shade tree committee read my emails and voiced concern over it. A buffer zone was enforced on the edge of the pond to protect those plants. That work was important to me as a constituent and I was proud of my home when I saw that.

385
01:56:56.400 --> 01:57:12.800
I've also reached out to the police for people driving in the park as vehicles are prohibited. The burrow put up signs regarding that which was helpful though enforcement is kind of scant. I've been present when kids lit fireworks during a drought and started a fire. After kids have vandalized the

386
01:57:12.800 --> 01:57:28.880
playground several times, broken the park benches into splinters. Where people have ridden dirt bikes and ATVs into the park with children under 10 on them without helmets. There's a softball group on the weekend that comes and openly drinks alcohol and lights a bonfire in the park, sometimes illegally

387
01:57:28.880 --> 01:57:44.480
parking their 20 vehicles. There's some recklessness here that goes unchecked. I'm saying this to illustrate that I really care. I'm always cleaning up litter after people in the park. I don't just like the park. I have a relationship with the land. Uh when the burrow calls for improving Felic Park,

388
01:57:44.480 --> 01:58:00.480
what is improvement? Does improvement mean making a sustainable conscious park where people can recreate and find joy? Or does it just mean we're pavement and development? To be clear, I understand the park is mixed use. Sports are great. They create community. Kids have great memories playing on a team. We should make our parks more welcoming for those

389
01:58:00.480 --> 01:58:17.360
situations. I want people to love and enjoy the place as much as I do. People should have access to sports facilities, but I want to stress that this is not the only function and important use of a park like this for the community. Park like this is more than just a place for sports. This place is surprisingly

390
01:58:17.360 --> 01:58:33.040
biodiverse and this burrow has lost crucial land for luxury apartments and warehouses. Every inch of land we have left is vital to our future. I want to see people live in neighborhoods where they can connect to the environment they live in, not just play a sport. We can have both, and the desire for facilities

391
01:58:33.040 --> 01:58:49.280
shouldn't harm the park's environment. I'm imploring the bureau to go about this project in a way that minimizes environmental impact and protects the light that flourishes in this park. My concerns are as follows. One, permanently keep non-emergency vehicles out of the park. The lot at the end of Marsh Avenue is perfect as a parking

392
01:58:49.280 --> 01:59:04.639
area with additional parking on Forest A and the side of Highland Drive. We have sacrificed swats of land to car dependent infrastructure and we should have beautiful areas that are free of cars to bring balance. Efforts are necessary to keep vehicles out of the park. Two, maintain the ecosystem

393
01:59:04.639 --> 01:59:21.760
without harm. The park is rife with native species. If anything, some of the grant should be spent on environmental support and rehab. The pond has 40 years of garbage in it and constantly gets covered with algae due to a lack of circulation and airation. Something that makes the pond more stable while respecting wildlife would be great, as

394
01:59:21.760 --> 01:59:37.920
would planting more native plants rather than just grass, which serves no environmental purpose. Trees provide shade, and shade provides cooling. None should be removed. Ensure field lighting of any of the sports facilities does not exceed the tree line. Obviously, you don't want lights going into your

395
01:59:37.920 --> 01:59:53.760
neighbors backyards in the middle of the night. Um, please consider the people around the neighborhood. Um, four, protect this park with more care than before. As I mentioned, various people have done things that could fall under criminal mischief, destruction of property, or disturbing the peace here.

396
01:59:53.760 --> 02:00:09.920
Making sure conduct befits the park atmosphere is important. The things that have happened here would not be tolerated at a park like Kennedy Park, and they shouldn't be tolerated here either. So, please understand, I'm communicating this only out of concern for my community and to speak for a place I love. You have people advocating

397
02:00:09.920 --> 02:00:27.239
for pickle ball courts, lights for the fields. Sports are good, but I'm here to advocate for the park itself. Um, building a better future comes from decisions like the ones you can make with that park. And I hope you make the right decision. Thank you.

398
02:00:29.360 --> 02:00:48.800
>> Are there are there any other questions or comments on on this ordinance? There being no other questions or comments, I'll entertain a motion. Councilman Kesi. >> So, Mr. Nco, I appreciate you coming up here and stating all of that. You know,

399
02:00:48.800 --> 02:01:05.599
we do try and like for the monarch butterfly and takes years to build up that milkweed again. So, you know, I took that to heart and uh I appreciate um even giving us uh the education about

400
02:01:05.599 --> 02:01:25.040
stuff like that. So, yes, we do uh work a lot on our parks for our children and for our future, but uh with with an incident like that, we do keep in mind that let's help protect certain species

401
02:01:25.040 --> 02:01:42.000
here. So, um, also, uh, you know, I frequent the parks a lot and, um, you know, uh, at the beginning of of this season, uh, you know, I was at Kennedy Park and it was like the first nicest

402
02:01:42.000 --> 02:01:58.560
day. It was a Sunday and there was a ton of ebikes, ton of them. and then not only riding on the grass and they were actually on the pathways and uh going into the skate park. You know, kids want

403
02:01:58.560 --> 02:02:15.360
to skate and they're interfering trying to jump on the little things. But um you know, ebikes have become reckless and you know uh we need to update this ordinance and I'm proud that we did and I'm sure it'll continue to get updated

404
02:02:15.360 --> 02:02:32.239
throughout the time. So, I'd like to make uh I move this public hearing be closed. The ordinance adopted on second and final reading and advertise according to law. >> Is there a second? >> Second. Roll call.

405
02:02:32.239 --> 02:02:47.440
>> Council persons Khesi. >> Yes. >> Mayor, >> yes. >> Novak, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Narski, >> yes. >> Zabrowski, >> yes. I just want to make one comment. Uh, Ed, great job. I I've known your parents forever. Uh we all learned how

406
02:02:47.440 --> 02:03:06.719
to swim in Sulfur Pond. Uh and I do see you walking all the time and I do see that you clean everything up and you did an eloquent job tonight. Next item. Uh okay.

407
02:03:06.719 --> 02:03:23.360
So on the on the library board of trustees, uh I had a a very long time uh person who who uh was my representative and and uh she she has done more than her more

408
02:03:23.360 --> 02:03:39.199
than her service to the burrow. That being said, what I did, I took an existing uh trustee, uh Mitch Cooper, and I uh made him my uh representative this week. And in his place, I've been given the

409
02:03:39.199 --> 02:03:57.440
name of a woman named Ursula Van Juan by Leah Clark, who is our library director. I did I did run uh ask some other members of the library board, and they their unanimous endorsement. So, I would like to appoint Ursula to Mitch Cooper's

410
02:03:57.440 --> 02:04:14.719
unexpired term on the library uh as a trustee. Is there a motion? >> So, moved. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Council persons Novak. >> Yes. >> Mayor, >> yes.

411
02:04:14.719 --> 02:04:29.920
>> Police, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Dinarski, >> yes. >> Browski, >> yes. >> Introduction of the following ordinance. Ordinance number 17-26, Burough of Seville County and Middle Sex, an ordinance accepting deed of dedication and easements from Parland Section 1

412
02:04:29.920 --> 02:04:46.719
Urban Renewal LLC. >> Uh, Councilman Zowski, I >> move the ordinance be approved on first reading advertised according to law and a public hearing to be held on our next meeting is August 17th. >> August 17th. >> Is there a second? >> Second. Roll call.

413
02:04:46.719 --> 02:05:02.000
>> Council person Zabrowski. >> Yes. >> Lumare. >> Yes. >> Liy. >> Yes. Novak, >> yes. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Narski, >> yes. >> Public portion on the resolution. >> Okay. At this time, I'm going to open the public portion for questions or

414
02:05:02.000 --> 02:05:17.599
comments on the resolutions, which is number seven on the agenda. Uh, are there any questions or comments on the consent agenda? There being none, I will entertain a motion. Council President >> move the public hearing be closed and

415
02:05:17.599 --> 02:05:32.080
the consent agenda resolutions be approved on roll call vote >> as written >> subject to correction. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Second. Roll call. >> Council person Zabowski. >> Yes. And again particular attention to

416
02:05:32.080 --> 02:05:48.800
2026 204 which is the referendum for the increase in LOAP contributions which will be for our first responders. Keep in mind that this ordinance has never been revised. Well, I shouldn't say has never been revised. It was revised for the CPI, but it's never been revised for

417
02:05:48.800 --> 02:06:06.719
the initial contribution for our fired and first aers. And this will be that opportunity for those voters to do that. So, yes, >> yes, >> Lucy. >> Yeah, that ordinance, John, 2026 204 is

418
02:06:06.719 --> 02:06:23.920
long overdue. That's a yes. Novak. Oh, >> yes. But that ordinance was when we first put it in there, it was back in the 90s and it was only $500. It was raised once since the original one, but I'm in favor of it. >> Rios,

419
02:06:23.920 --> 02:06:39.679
>> yes. >> Yes. >> Okay. A motion to um accept the correspondence that's listed. >> Council President Accept. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. Council person Zabrski

420
02:06:39.679 --> 02:06:55.760
Blumare. >> Yes. >> Hiti. >> Yes. >> Novak. >> Yes. >> Rios. >> Yes. >> Sinarski. >> Yes. >> Mayor and counselor. >> Okay. Uh mayor and council uh reports.

421
02:06:55.760 --> 02:07:11.440
Uh administration of finance. Councilwoman Novak. >> Yes, Mayor. Uh, I can't tell you how much less aid I'm going to have now that the uh the budget is passed. There's so many things that you don't realize that uh when you only are working on a

422
02:07:11.440 --> 02:07:26.800
temporary budget. When you first put that in place, you're thinking, you know, by 3 months into the year, we're going to have a permanent budget. And this dragged on a little longer than we would have liked. I'm glad that we uh we did bring it down substantially.

423
02:07:26.800 --> 02:07:41.119
And I I'm just going to say I probably have a few weeks off with that, but since I'm the first one to speak, I would like to make a motion that we amend or maybe just another uh ordinance

424
02:07:41.119 --> 02:08:05.840
entirely to ban data centers completely. >> Second. Roll call. Council persons Novak. >> Yes. >> Lumare. >> Absolutely. >> Khesi.

425
02:08:05.840 --> 02:08:22.079
>> Uh I don't really understand where this came from, but you know, this is a little redundant. Now, we we just said we were doing a permanent ban and then when that 18 month is up, we do it again. So,

426
02:08:22.079 --> 02:08:40.000
uh, that's a no right now. >> Rios, >> yes. >> Sarski, >> we just went through this and I said I want to learn more about these and I'm still a no. >> Zabowski,

427
02:08:40.000 --> 02:08:54.480
>> no. >> Mayor 33. >> All right. So, I'm I'm in favor of getting more information. I'm not in afraid of information. Uh, so I'm going to I'm going to vote no on it.

428
02:08:54.480 --> 02:09:12.480
Okay. Public safety Councilman Balmore. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. >> Uh, good evening everyone. >> I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Mayor wasn't there. >> I wanted to uh make a motion that we give the uh firehouse next door, the first burrow hall his local historic

429
02:09:12.480 --> 02:09:28.880
preservation status. >> Second. Not Mary, >> I want to give the building next door local preservation historic preservation stat. >> You explain what local preservation is, please. >> The the in order for us to be able to uh

430
02:09:28.880 --> 02:09:45.280
apply for grants for historical preservation, we the local municipality must designate it as an historical site within the town. Other than that, we we can't re we cannot go out for grants. >> And that's why I want it done. Okay. Go

431
02:09:45.280 --> 02:10:01.199
ahead, >> Mayor. Just so I I'm clear. So what I need to do if it passes, uh, when you say local, are you saying are we seeking to register with anything or we're just making a declaration on behalf of the municipality that it's a historic? I just need to know what next steps would need to be done if adopted.

432
02:10:01.199 --> 02:10:17.840
>> If if we have as soon as the the town gives it local historical preservation status, uh, we can apply for grants. We would probably set up a committee. I think matter of fact I think a committee is uh part of it that has to be done

433
02:10:17.840 --> 02:10:34.880
that will handle all of the uh you know and we would set up the committee uh everything that was going to happen with the building. So is that municipality? >> That's right. Yeah. Not about the grants part. I mean, is it going to be registering this with the state, with the federal, with any historic group, or

434
02:10:34.880 --> 02:10:50.639
is it just resolution declaring that the burrow of Seville finds it to be a historic Yes. >> structure. Okay. So, it's the the former. It's just the burough. Okay. I just want to make sure what I needed to do. >> Okay. Continue to vote. >> Is there a second? >> Yes. >> Second.

435
02:10:50.639 --> 02:11:08.480
>> Okay. >> Novak. Yes, >> Lumare. >> Yes, >> Kesi. >> Yes, >> Rios. >> Yes, >> Zarski.

436
02:11:08.480 --> 02:11:24.400
>> I am a yes to making the old firehouse historical. long as it's for what we understand that it's going to be the burrow still has the authority to build it the way they want where it doesn't have to be built

437
02:11:24.400 --> 02:11:40.400
with historical bricks and everything else and and the and it could still be carried on the way the original plan is. Yes, the original plan has to be adjusted uh as far as the facade goes or the elevator. That's something we could talk about. But as far as being a local

438
02:11:40.400 --> 02:11:57.119
historic building, not municipal, not state, I am for local cereble making it historical. >> Zowski. >> Yes. >> Okay. Uh, Councilman, are you done, Mayor?

439
02:11:57.119 --> 02:12:11.679
>> Yes. >> Okay. >> Uh, Councilman Bmore, public safety again. Good evening, everyone. Um, I'd like to take a a moment to recognize and thank all of our public safety professionals, our police department,

440
02:12:11.679 --> 02:12:28.079
fire department, OEM, PBA, and EMS for everything you do each and every day to keep our borrow safe. Your dedication, professionalism, and willingness to serve our community are deeply appreciated. I also want to give a special thank you to our police

441
02:12:28.079 --> 02:12:51.520
department for another outstanding youth academy graduation that occurred on the eve of Independence Day, July 3rd. Congratulations to the 40 graduates who completed this year's program. Initiatives like the youth academy give

442
02:12:51.520 --> 02:13:08.639
our young residents the opportunity to learn about law enforcement, build positive relationships with our officers, and develop a greater appreciation for public service. Thank you to everyone who helped make the program such a success. Lastly, I'd like

443
02:13:08.639 --> 02:13:25.760
to invite everyone in the borrow to join us for National Night Out on August 4th from 5 to 8:00 p.m. at War Memorial Park. It's a wonderful family event featuring a live DJ, bounce houses. I'm going to take advantage of that. Police

444
02:13:25.760 --> 02:13:41.520
vehicles and equipment on display, and a chance to meet the officers and first responders who proudly serve our community. We hope to see everyone there as we come together for an evening of fun, community, and support for our

445
02:13:41.520 --> 02:13:59.599
public safety professionals. Thank you. [clears throat] >> Public Works Councilman Rios. >> Good evening, Mayor, Council President, fellow council members, business administrator, burough attorney, department heads, and residents. Uh,

446
02:13:59.599 --> 02:14:15.360
first I'd like to thank our public works department for everything they've been doing following the recent storms. Uh, crews are still out picking up branches throughout town and continuing the important work of cleaning our storm sewer system. Uh, now I'd like to

447
02:14:15.360 --> 02:14:31.520
address the opportunities that we do have. Uh, Weber Avenue pump station is in need of repairs. We're currently waiting on a replacement pump and several other necessary parts before those repairs can move forward. uh Melrose Firehouse. We're continuing to work through issues with the fire

448
02:14:31.520 --> 02:14:47.119
suppression system. Vendor is searching for a compressor that's compatible with the existing equipment. If one cannot be found, the entire system will need to be replaced. We're doing the best we can with the equipment and resources we have while working toward a permanent

449
02:14:47.119 --> 02:15:02.960
solution. Uh that said, it's a good thing that we adopted the budget because we're already behind on several storm water permit requirements, including watershed management work that is now passed due with another major requirement due before the end of

450
02:15:02.960 --> 02:15:19.760
the year. These are important obligations and we need to make sure we have the resources in place to keep these projects moving. I'd like to thank uh Speaker Craig Coughlin, Assemblywoman Ivon Lopez, and Senator Joe Vitali for helping secure $1

451
02:15:19.760 --> 02:15:35.360
million in state funding for improvements at Felic Park. We're excited to see this investment made in our community and look forward to the completed project. Um I recently met with the Sha Tree Commission where we continue discussion

452
02:15:35.360 --> 02:15:51.520
discussions about our proposed cherry blossom uh project. But with the announcement of the upcoming improvements at Felic Park, we want to make sure our planting plans don't interfere with the construction schedule. So if these renovations prevent us from completing the project

453
02:15:51.520 --> 02:16:08.480
there, we'll identify another suitable location. But one way or another, the cherry blossoms are coming. I also like to welcome Bartis Sha, who recently took the oath of office as our newest sha tree commissioner. We look forward working together.

454
02:16:08.480 --> 02:16:24.400
Um the uh I'd like to also uh congratulate Heather Yanown on becoming Saraveville Historical Society new president. Uh I'm looking forward we're looking forward to working with you in preserving Sarville

455
02:16:24.400 --> 02:16:43.040
history. Congratulations. [clears throat] >> Just recently I also had the opportunity to tour the Riverton redevelopment site. Construction continues to move forward and everything appears to be on schedule for a fall opening of Bass Pro Shops.

456
02:16:43.040 --> 02:16:58.479
It's exciting to see the progress being made there. Um, so many things. Um, it was uh also a pleasure attending the reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Burough Hole on the

457
02:16:58.479 --> 02:17:16.240
4th of July. The horses provided by Legacy Riding Stables made for a wonderful backdrop and Dennis did an outstanding job bringing the declaration to life. It was a great event celebrating our nation's history in our community.

458
02:17:16.240 --> 02:17:32.719
Um want to mention two two things. Um, at our last council meeting, which ended abruptly, uh, comments were directed toward our colleague, Councilwoman Mary Novc, that I believe fell short of the

459
02:17:32.719 --> 02:17:50.000
level of professionalism our residents expect from all of us. Just earlier, we threatened somebody to we threatened to kick out somebody because they weren't polite. Now, we don't all have to agree. Healthy

460
02:17:50.000 --> 02:18:06.800
debate is part of public service, but disagreement should never become personal. The standard we should hold oursel is simple. If we wouldn't accept someone speaking that way to our mother, our wife, our daughter, or somebody we care

461
02:18:06.800 --> 02:18:22.319
about, then we shouldn't accept it in this chamber either. We owe each other that basic level of respect. And while I'm there, I'd like to some clarification regarding our rules of order. On several occasions,

462
02:18:22.319 --> 02:18:38.960
Councilwoman Novak raised the point of order. Yet, it appeared those requests were not recognized or addressed. So, my question directly to our burrow attorney is this. When a council member raises a point of order directed to the mayor,

463
02:18:38.960 --> 02:18:56.319
what is the proper procedure? is the point of order required to be recognized before business continues and who is responsible for ruling on it under our council rules. I think having that clarification will benefit everyone on this governing body and help ensure our

464
02:18:56.319 --> 02:19:18.240
meetings are conducted fairly, consistently and respectfully. Mayor um to respond to the question, it is the mayor who chairs and the mayor is the one who rules on points of order uh on proceeding on whether >> so if there's a point of order directed to him he can just ignore it.

465
02:19:18.240 --> 02:19:34.160
>> Well, that is he the mayor he or she the mayor is the chair of the body. They're the ones under the Robert rules of order who makes that that ruling. >> Okay. >> Anything else, Councilman? I'm I'm just looking forward to a meeting where we

466
02:19:34.160 --> 02:19:51.120
can all sit down, discuss the issues at hand without it becoming personal like it became on the on our last meeting. I'm really looking forward for that. I'm hoping that you can all help me achieve that.

467
02:19:51.120 --> 02:20:05.920
>> Anything else? >> We did today, right? Did we have any problems today? >> Do we? >> Yeah. Nothing personal yet. Yeah. So, we're doing good so far. [clears throat]

468
02:20:05.920 --> 02:20:25.520
So, I know maybe not now it's not that crowded, but I looked around the room tonight and the turnout tells me that people want to get involved. They want their opinions, their concerns, and ideas to be part of the

469
02:20:25.520 --> 02:20:40.399
conversation. They want to be a part of it. Knowing that there will be significant public interest, we open up the Mikey Setlac Center to allow additional public participation because our elevator is broken.

470
02:20:40.399 --> 02:21:00.160
So, if you can go up the stairs, you could have gone to the Mickey Setlac uh room and participate on this meeting, which is excellent, great, awesome. tonight demonstrates that we already have the technology in and

471
02:21:00.160 --> 02:21:16.720
infrastructure necessary to expand public access. Since joining this council in January, I've made it a priority to encourage residents to participate. Before every meeting, I post reminders because I've had many people tell me

472
02:21:16.720 --> 02:21:33.680
they didn't know when council meetings were held or even where they took place. If we took an oath to serve the residents of Saraveville, then we should also do everything we reasonably can to make it easier for them to participate in their local government. Okay. Tonight

473
02:21:33.680 --> 02:21:50.160
is proof that when people know about the meetings and have a way to participate, they show up and they participate. For that reason, I'd like to make a motion directing the appropriate staff to implement Zoom public participation

474
02:21:50.160 --> 02:22:16.640
for future council meetings. Thank you. Rios, >> yes. >> Mayor, >> yes. >> Police, >> uh, still a no. It's always been a no. I mean, you know, I realize that some of

475
02:22:16.640 --> 02:22:31.680
our, uh, community, can't drive at night like myself and stuff like that. But, you know, people do make it. And, uh, you know, it was for a reason. It was for CO. I

476
02:22:31.680 --> 02:22:46.960
understand but you know it was only brought up since co you know I mean everybody here you made it you're here fine but it's still a no so for me

477
02:22:46.960 --> 02:23:05.840
that's my opinion and you should accept my opinion >> novak >> yes >> no it's it's the same as it was we made sure that the uh Mickey Sedlac building was available for Zoom tonight, but we

478
02:23:05.840 --> 02:23:21.120
we you know, you answered our emails and everything else. I don't think it's necessary at this time. >> Zowski, >> no. Uh I I've you know, I've been on a number of Zoom meetings in in my lifetime and there is nothing better

479
02:23:21.120 --> 02:23:36.240
than the participation that comes from people that are here in person. listening to you guys tonight talking about when route nine they were talking about the route nine in Bordontown Avenue intersection and we filled it the state DOT at that time wanted you

480
02:23:36.240 --> 02:23:52.399
just to put it online and and record your comments because they just wanted to kind of move forward with the project but everybody showed up you could see the emotion and the reason for why it was important to them and then they had a meeting and now they have two meetings and now the people are starting to think

481
02:23:52.399 --> 02:24:07.280
differently I've been on enough Zoom meetings to know that you could dismiss people very easily. I've been on enough Zoom meetings to know that sometimes you just get bored and you lose interest. I don't want anybody to lose interest particularly you group of gener

482
02:24:07.280 --> 02:24:23.760
generation Z who are coming out and I think you could and for that purpose and it's my experience that Zoom as much as everybody says it leads to participation quite frankly I think it actually doesn't lead to good communication. There is nothing better than being here

483
02:24:23.760 --> 02:24:40.399
in person to talk. I respect those that may have a disability not be able to get here, but we do do make certain accommodations, but by and large there is nothing better than having the conversation in person. So, no, >> mayor. That's 33.

484
02:24:40.399 --> 02:24:56.640
>> Uh, no. And and the and the reason is I I've been mayor for a very long time and before that a councilman and before that a a member in the audience and and the state legislature

485
02:24:56.640 --> 02:25:14.080
enacted this the ability to use Zoom in the in the case of an emergency. Uh and since there isn't an emergency then it's it's it's a conflict with the intent of the state legislature. So it does work better when it's in person. There's more

486
02:25:14.080 --> 02:25:28.160
dialogue. You there can be more of a back and forth. So I'll say consistent in that it doesn't serve a purpose as there is no state of emergency. Uh and and we seem to be getting along quite uh

487
02:25:28.160 --> 02:25:49.920
we're proceeding pretty well. Okay. Uh >> uh well no that was uh my remarks. I just wanted to also highlight the great events that are happening under cultural arts and mic um and just um the great work that all the volunteers are doing.

488
02:25:49.920 --> 02:26:07.985
Um and we have a good time every time they uh they're up. >> Thank you. Have a good night. >> Okay. Recreation Councilman Klesi. >> Yeah. Thanks, Councilman Rios. Now everybody just left. [laughter]

489
02:26:08.240 --> 02:26:23.840
So, I'm going to start off today with uh with our office of the aging. Um at the senior center, they're having bus trips to Pier Village. They're scheduled for uh Oh, no. They were already done. The next

490
02:26:23.840 --> 02:26:41.520
one is the 23rd. So, um upcoming programs also include uh Bingo with Lara Carring. That's uh Friday, August 7th. and they have a karaoke day with um Vision Riverside on uh my birthday,

491
02:26:41.520 --> 02:26:57.760
Friday, August 14th. So, Saraveville seniors who need minor safety repairs, they uh to help them uh prevent falls and uh whatnot, you know, those uh bars you put in the bathroom stalls and um so

492
02:26:57.760 --> 02:27:18.000
that's available now. uh we received the grant. So if you need it uh you call them at 732-3907058. So take advantage of that program. It's really good. So now move to cultural arts. Last

493
02:27:18.000 --> 02:27:33.200
Tuesday, July 14th, the committee hosted its uh reschedule disco night. So while I was unable to attend, I received very positive feedback from residents who described it as electric, enjoyable, and

494
02:27:33.200 --> 02:27:50.640
a well attended event. So uh the next thing is Wednesday, July 22nd. Families are invited at Kennedy Park for a combined classic car show and the outdoor movie night. So the car show runs 6:00 to 8. It includes trophy

495
02:27:50.640 --> 02:28:07.840
presentations and it's followed by the Disney Pixar Cars movie at Dusk. So, the evening will also feature popcorn, ice cream, food trucks, face painting, making it family uh familyfriendly

496
02:28:07.840 --> 02:28:25.760
summer event for all ages. So, on Thursday, July 30th, Cultural Arts uh welcomes back Big Bang Baby, one of New Jerseys uh Shor's top 80s and 90s pop rock bands. So, residents are encouraged

497
02:28:25.760 --> 02:28:40.560
to bring their beach chairs, blankets, and friends for an evening of music and community. So, they will also host the postponed Star Stripes in Sarahville event

498
02:28:40.560 --> 02:28:57.760
Thursday, August 8th from 7 to 10 p.m. Program is expected to include a US uh Air Force presentation. Then uh recognition of the historical society's 150th birthday of Saraveville and its

499
02:28:57.760 --> 02:29:14.640
work preserving Saraveville's past while inspiring its future. And a screening is also included of Marvel's Captain America: The First Avenger at Dusk. So be there. >> Okay.

500
02:29:14.640 --> 02:29:29.040
>> Lastly, recreation. I got one more. One more bear. Um, so the recreation department and aquatic and fitness center participated in the world's largest swim lesson on

501
02:29:29.040 --> 02:29:46.160
June 25th with 57 participants here, joining thousands worldwide in this important water safety event. The recreation department thanks everyone who joined the uh, America 250 celebration on June 28th. It was

502
02:29:46.160 --> 02:30:01.200
wonderful to see the community come together for family fun, fireworks, and a celebration of our nation's independence. Remember, the farmers market continues every Thursday and the community garden

503
02:30:01.200 --> 02:30:18.479
uh uh lot at the War Memorial Park right next to us here. And registration is now open for all fall recreation programs. check it out on the Saraveville Recreation website and view all those offerings. And that's all I have. Thank you.

504
02:30:18.479 --> 02:30:36.560
>> Okay. Thank you. Uh, Water, Sewer, Environmental, Councilman Sinarski. >> Thank you, Mayor. I promise I'll keep it short. The first thing I want to say is I would like to meet the guy that was over here, the young man that hung around Sulfers at Kennedy Park, Felic Park. Uh, I swam there many, many years

505
02:30:36.560 --> 02:30:54.319
ago. Well, I'm glad to see he's got so much interest and I'd like to get him involved a little bit in the town with this. Um, water and sewer, the community garden is going good. I know if anybody goes there, it's across from St. S. You got to stop in there. Uh, water we're

506
02:30:54.319 --> 02:31:11.040
still using. We're up to 225 million this month. We had a big problem July 3rd when the wind blew the solar panels in the field in the in the pond behind it and they and all the solar panels got damaged. The solar panels are not corrected even at this time yet. So the

507
02:31:11.040 --> 02:31:26.560
solar panels are will be fixed but they aren't right now. Excuse me. Uh the other thing I was at Weber Avenue with the flood with Mike's area there uh when the pumps were off and I was there when the water department got the pumps running and everything else and

508
02:31:26.560 --> 02:31:41.600
everything's under control. Other than that, thank you. That's the end of my report. >> Okay, thanks SH. Planning and zoning Council President Sabrowski. >> Thank you, Mayor. I just have a couple questions which are really for updates. Um I think mostly directed towards

509
02:31:41.600 --> 02:31:57.520
unfortunately Jay. Um, do you have an update on the uh traffic light application? Well, not application, but letter that we've sent to the county in reference to Winding Woods uh development. >> We're still waiting for information from the police department to send to the

510
02:31:57.520 --> 02:32:12.240
county to justify the installation of the signal. >> Okay. I don't know, Glenn, but maybe we can ask the chief to kind of push that along. I think we all agree that that's a very important intersection needs to be needs to be addressed. Uh, again, talking about traffic, I apologize.

511
02:32:12.240 --> 02:32:29.120
survey. Um, Crossman Light and Maine. Um, Crossman and Maine. I know that that's the uh county doing the upgrade, but that light cycle continues to be junk. I mean, it just backs everything up. Or when is the

512
02:32:29.120 --> 02:32:45.520
new light coming in or when are they going to recycle it? >> The infrastructure. It's the there utility companies are relocating poles and getting the infrastructure ready. The contract's been awarded. It's under construction, but they're waiting on utility movement before they can start. So, there was >> an ETA.

513
02:32:45.520 --> 02:33:02.399
>> I would say within the next month, you should see work actually starting on the signal because they're almost complete with the pole relocation. We >> we just became aware today at the end of the day, uh Verizon needs to remove the poles. >> They're pointing the finger at the contractor who needs to remove the

514
02:33:02.399 --> 02:33:19.120
wiring for the traffic signal that currently controls the light. Uh we'll be working on that tomorrow morning. >> Uh and then finally, and this is again, uh I know that uh believe it or not, schools will be coming back in session fairly soon, but u speaking to some of the residents, particularly on Quaid

515
02:33:19.120 --> 02:33:34.640
Street, Quaid Street, which is off of Washington Road, which is a one-way street, very narrow, but it becomes the main thoroughfare in the morning and in the morning for traffic people dropping off their kids at down at Wilson School. Can you just see uh I'm asking if the

516
02:33:34.640 --> 02:33:50.880
chief could have his traffic safety bureau take a look see if there's additional signage or something else that could be done. Uh the residents there seem to be quite concerned that the traffic uh is the flow is very very high steady and could be potentially harmful to um particularly the young

517
02:33:50.880 --> 02:34:07.760
pedestrians. And mayor that's my only questions and I defer my time to our public this evening. >> Okay. Um that being said there [clears throat] my under my report two things. First thing is I would recommend that a lot of the people that came here

518
02:34:07.760 --> 02:34:23.840
tonight about the data center um take some time and and get some fundamental uh knowledge about land use. So [clears throat] I've sat up here a long time and and some projects have

519
02:34:23.840 --> 02:34:41.760
have support some some don't. But what we are charged with doing is um the burrow owns at least a third of the burrow. Uh we own a great deal of property here. And then there's that property which we don't own. And the and

520
02:34:41.760 --> 02:34:59.040
what we try to do is guide what the property owner who by law has the right to do this seek a higher and better use for their property under the law. And and what happens is if you lose if if you if somebody says hey I want to

521
02:34:59.040 --> 02:35:16.560
build a playground and you go no you can't build a ba a playground and you go to court and you lose you then the burrow is then subject to builder remedy and the burrow has no input in this and it's between the judge and the builder

522
02:35:16.560 --> 02:35:31.920
and and we we try to be extraordinarily careful not to put ourselves in that position. So after 125 years, and Bernie, you're sitting in the back. You're a Bailey. Karen, who's a Bailey, was sitting right here. It was your

523
02:35:31.920 --> 02:35:49.439
ancestors that sold the 500 acres uh to Hercules in in in um the 1800s. Uh and by marriage, I'm a B, you know, everybody's related in Sarah. I'm a Bailey. Uh Bernie and Karen technically

524
02:35:49.439 --> 02:36:04.800
are like my cousins, although sometimes they won't admit it. Um but that being said, so [clears throat] for five generations, Hercules provided Hercules and Dupant provided employment to the people of

525
02:36:04.800 --> 02:36:22.479
Seville, helped raise five generations of people. They made the gunpowder that that uh won two world wars. Um, you know, it's a very proud heritage. But after 125 years, Hercules said, "Okay, we're going

526
02:36:22.479 --> 02:36:38.240
to close down." So now there's 200 acres of industrial property. It has some contamination on it from the years of of chemical manufacturing. A and what a lot of people don't realize, it had a it had a buffer of

527
02:36:38.240 --> 02:36:55.920
trees and inside it was it was just all commercial manufacturing. Um, so now what and and on those 200 acres, the last the last number I heard was they were they were asking on the real estate

528
02:36:55.920 --> 02:37:11.200
market for $500,000 an acre. So it's a it's it's a $200 million purchase, which the bro first of all, we're not allowed to buy contaminated property. It it's against the law. Secondly, we don't have $200 million.

529
02:37:11.200 --> 02:37:28.640
So the best we can do is try to direct what will happen to that property and and that is that whole world of land use which if you ever wanted had problems sleeping at night you read a book on land use it'll put you to sleep faster

530
02:37:28.640 --> 02:37:43.840
than anything else but I would I would advise you Jay do you have any recommendations or John on on um on on a primer for land use uh for the for the for the people of Seville who may or may not be interested

531
02:37:43.840 --> 02:38:00.640
in it. But a lot of times we find ourselves in this situation where we're just trying to guide what how how a piece of private property gets developed particularly commercial because limited to what we have uh limited what's what's

532
02:38:00.640 --> 02:38:17.200
left and and we would like it to benefit the burrow and and but we're also subject to the use that the property owner is is is looking to to do with the property. So, it's it's somewhat complex. It's it's just not there's no

533
02:38:17.200 --> 02:38:33.200
magic wand that any government official can wave and say you can't do this because there's always a court of law that says yes, they can. And in my long tenure up here, I I have seen that happen time and time again where um it

534
02:38:33.200 --> 02:38:50.080
went to court and and some there's a winner and a loser when you go to court and we try to make sure that we're on the side of the law. But Jay, getting back to the primer, if people were interested, could you have your office look at that and and see if there's a primer that that the residents of New

535
02:38:50.080 --> 02:39:06.240
Jersey use on land use? >> I think that Ruters has online courses that you could possibly look into that might >> Could you have someone from your office send it over here? Send it to Nicole and and we'll put it up on on the burrow website. That being said, what I'd like

536
02:39:06.240 --> 02:39:23.120
to do with the remainder of of my report is ask the the president of the board of education, uh, Eloy, uh, to come up and give a report on Seville's first Latino day. Eloy, if you would, please.

537
02:39:23.120 --> 02:39:40.080
And you're completely unprepared. I didn't ask them to prepare, but I like putting my friend. By the way, I went to our favorite restaurant on Saturday for lunch and and and I had two cups of Costa Rican coffee and I was looking at the ceiling at 1:00 in the morning. I

538
02:39:40.080 --> 02:39:57.840
don't know how you Eloy, there's a new restaurant in town that's that's Latino and and I went there. I brought Eloy and I went there for lunch and he introduced me to Cuban coffee and which which is great except I'll never drink it again because I was awake for three days. So,

539
02:39:57.840 --> 02:40:12.399
good stuff. >> Uh, Major, I I think I I went that same day. They um to eat there. >> Yeah. Yeah, I went and I was like, "Oh, it they told me that you were there earlier." So, I missed you, you know. >> Well, timing is everything.

540
02:40:12.399 --> 02:40:27.520
>> So, you would have met [clears throat] two sons of Sarah, Eloy and myself. Go ahead, Eloy. The show is yours. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. And you're right. Latin Port's a great restaurant and it was also the site of the the burrow's first ever historic bilingual podcast.

541
02:40:27.520 --> 02:40:43.280
Um grow growing up as a Hispanic in this town going back to the early 80s, maybe even the late '7s. I don't want to admit that. But um for me it was it was it was a very touching moment. It shows that the change in our town, the very positive change in our town and the growth in our

542
02:40:43.280 --> 02:40:59.760
town. And I want to thank you, Mr. Mayor, for making that happen. Um growing up here almost 50 years Um, it it was a long time coming. >> So, thank you. >> Yes, sir. And I know deep down inside you're you're really a Latino.

543
02:40:59.760 --> 02:41:16.720
>> I like rice and beans, but I still I'm still Irish and I'll eat a potato. And [laughter] >> and along that that that same note, the burrow is going to have its first ever Hispanic Heritage Month lat Latin Day on September 19th. It's going to be an

544
02:41:16.720 --> 02:41:31.920
incredible event. We're going to have a number of performers including performers from from from TV's The Voice and the Spanish version Lavos will be performing with us. Um we're going to have fireworks events for the families. It's going to be an historic event for

545
02:41:31.920 --> 02:41:48.000
us. It's going to be probably one of the biggest events in town and I'm looking forward to this. This is a real game game changer for our community and it really shows representation of of our community. We're now the largest subgroup in town. I believe we're around 20%.

546
02:41:48.000 --> 02:42:05.280
Um, if if that reminds me right. >> 20% you're the Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And it's it's it's about time. Um, I grew up in a in in a town when 20 was a lot. And I mean 20 people, not 20%. Um, so th this was a big change in our town.

547
02:42:05.280 --> 02:42:20.880
It's great to see that that our town h has this representation now. And as as we see it here on the burough council with Mr. Rios and we see it now on on the board of ed where three of us are are uh individuals of color including our first two foreignb born women of

548
02:42:20.880 --> 02:42:37.600
color. So it's been a great historic change in our town and I want to thank my fellow residents, thank our mayor and thank our council for all you do for this. So, let's talk about who's cooking at the festival and who's who's playing music and and

549
02:42:37.600 --> 02:42:53.040
when I first came in here, there was a preponderance of of Polish people and descendants of people from Poland and they tried to teach me to first they tried to teach me Polish and and that was not overly successful and and then

550
02:42:53.040 --> 02:43:08.000
they tried to teach me how to pula which was a complete failure. Um, so my understanding is there going to be people that are going to try to teach me how to salsa. And for whatever reason, when God made me this big, he gave me no

551
02:43:08.000 --> 02:43:24.240
rhythm. And and uh so I plant my feet like an oak tree and and and I move my shoulders. And that's that's as good as it's ever going to get. But we'll see what happens on Latin Day. >> Listen, the music will will take you over. Stella, Stella Machev tried to

552
02:43:24.240 --> 02:43:39.920
teach me to poke her. >> And you know what? I had to keep say Stella was about 5 foot tall and and and she has me out on the dance floor and I had to say, "Hey, Stella, stop bleeding. Stop bleeding." >> Well, listen, I have a feeling that

553
02:43:39.920 --> 02:43:55.120
Gloria Estfan was correct and the rhythm is going to get you. >> I hope so. Eventually, before I die, I'd like to have rhythm. >> No, but yeah, we're going to have foods from all all kinds of cultures there. Um, it's going to be the food's going to be fantastic. The music is going to be

554
02:43:55.120 --> 02:44:12.160
fantastic. And like I said, we have some special performers from The Voice and Lavos and many, many others that are going to be a really fun night. >> By the way, Eli and I did another uh bilingual podcast from um actually a good friend of mine has has a place called Urban Orbanos.

555
02:44:12.160 --> 02:44:27.680
>> Yes. >> Down on Main Street by the Quick Check. So, we went in there and and we did the podcast from Barber Chairs and and and uh I got to tell you, I got a lot of compliments, you know, for an old guy when when somebody says, "Boy, that's a

556
02:44:27.680 --> 02:44:44.319
nice haircut, Kennedy." You know, >> you look you look 10 years younger. >> There you go. So, >> brought the Latin out to me. >> I always go there. My Barbers Austo, anybody wants to go see him. Um, no, it's it's it's a great place. It's it's a great >> And they made us coffee. And they made

557
02:44:44.319 --> 02:45:00.080
us coffee. Yes. >> Herbanos. Urbanos on Main Street. >> Not quite Cuban coffee, but it was still very good. >> Dominican. >> That's right. I'm a little Elizabeth's Dominican. >> Yes. >> Yes, sir. >> Yep. And she's also on our Latin Day committee. So, you really brought

558
02:45:00.080 --> 02:45:16.240
>> together a number of community partners in in in on this from a number of cultures. So, it's great. It's also great that has representation of of the community on the council. Would you also mention Madame D's uh Yankee signing? >> Yes. So, Mades, who's also a member of

559
02:45:16.240 --> 02:45:32.479
our community, does so much for our community. Anyone who's had their empanales knows they are the best empanalas anywhere, but more importantly, they're even better human beings. We all know of the tragedy that happened in in Venezuela recently. Um, when this happened, one one of the first

560
02:45:32.479 --> 02:45:48.319
things Mad did is how can I help? So, they've done a great job. They have uh a number of I forget exactly the the the Yankee Allstars that were coming, but they have a number of of Yankee stars that are coming to do a specific signing on >> Luis Soho.

561
02:45:48.319 --> 02:46:04.560
>> Luis Soho. Yes. Thank you. I I'm a Met fan, so you know, I kind of, you know, try to forget the Yankees, but [laughter] >> um so I believe it's August 7th. They're going to they're going to have it at their facility. um come in, get your autograph signed, and 100% of all the

562
02:46:04.560 --> 02:46:19.359
donations and all the food sold that day is going to to affect the relief efforts in Venezuela, which is very very desperately needed in in that community. So again, a tremendous effort by Mama D, Steve, and and his wife. Um they they

563
02:46:19.359 --> 02:46:34.960
always do an amazing job at at any time that there's a tragedy. When there was the hurricanes in Puerto Rico, they were there um time and time again. They they sacrifice and they give. And this is just another example on a long list. >> Did you Did uh Joe ever get it worked

564
02:46:34.960 --> 02:46:51.040
out on Latin Day where he's bringing the um the wrestling? >> Unfortunately, that's not going to work out. Sorry. We were going to have professional wrestling there, but there was a conflict with the uh scheduling date, so it couldn't happen. But >> next year, we'll have >> Kids love that. >> Yes. Next year.

565
02:46:51.040 --> 02:47:06.880
>> He does that down at St. Sands. Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah. Absolutely. Oh, Alberto, just so you know, I learned about Puerto Rican sock. I call it sock coffee >> where where you where you put the grounds in the I call it a sock. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

566
02:47:06.880 --> 02:47:22.640
>> I don't know what you guys call it, but I I give things named >> Kalon. Kalon. Yeah. >> So, I didn't have it, but he but but he has it on display there. >> Yeah. >> And he also has the the mocha pots there, which is my way of doing like cafetera.

567
02:47:22.640 --> 02:47:38.800
>> He was talking about percentage. 16.67% on on the council of Hispanic. >> There you [laughter] go. >> All right. All right. >> All right. So, Elo, I I really thank you very much for all the work you're doing on on Latin Day and and for joining me

568
02:47:38.800 --> 02:47:55.640
on on these bilingual podcasts. I think it's it's it's time and and um my kids liked them. >> I appreciate. Thank you, mayor, for including me. Thank you. >> Thanks, Eli. with

569
02:47:56.000 --> 02:48:15.680
um with that we'll go we'll go to agenda items and min >> authorization for the tax collector to refund taxes and cancel all subsequently bill taxes due to 100% disabled veteran tax exemption for 25 quid AB in the amount of $5,17455 >> uh any any objection next item

570
02:48:15.680 --> 02:48:30.880
>> application for persontoperson transfer received from Steve Mitnik a snee for the benefit of creditors of pure event um to um which is a pocket license to the LLC. All reports and paperwork have been filed. >> Any objections? Next item.

571
02:48:30.880 --> 02:48:45.920
>> Application for a social affair permit received from several PBA Local 98 to serve beer and wine at their annual picnic on August 30th from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. >> Any objection? Next item. >> Authorization for membership to the purchasing cooperative America of Higo, Texas.

572
02:48:45.920 --> 02:49:01.840
>> Any objection? Next item. Authorization to build the following owners plus administrative costs for the removal of a substantial amount of overgrowth from the property. 10 Henry Street in the amount of $259.90, 32 Weber in the amount of $17,326

573
02:49:01.840 --> 02:49:17.520
and 770 Washington Road in the amount of $433.16. >> Any objection? Next item. Application for membership as a fighter fighter received from Payton Maliv accepted by the Melrose Hose Company number one at their July 6th meeting.

574
02:49:17.520 --> 02:49:33.760
>> Any objection? Next item. >> Authorization for the Burough Clerk to advertise for the receipt of sealed bids for abandoned and unclaimed motor vehicles. >> Any objection? Next item. >> Authorization to award a contract to Motorola Solutions for Vesta Support Maintenance Renewal through NJ State

575
02:49:33.760 --> 02:49:49.600
Contract in amount not to exceed $47,767.20. Next item, >> authorization to award award a non-fair and open contract to Cambria Automotive of Newark for truck repairs in the amount not to exceed $33,460.74.

576
02:49:49.600 --> 02:50:05.520
>> Any objection? Next item. >> Authorization to award a non-fair and open contract to Pepco Industries of Newark for leaf bags in the amount not to exceed 22,310 $312.80. >> Any objections? Next item. Authorization to extend the contract with custom care

577
02:50:05.520 --> 02:50:20.960
services for groundskeeping services on various burrow properties not to exceed $97,425. >> Any objection? Next item. >> Authorization to award a non-fair and open contract to R&J garage door to replace the doors at the several emergency squad in the amount not to

578
02:50:20.960 --> 02:50:37.200
exceed $32,79.76. >> Any objection? Next item. Authorization to award a contract to AC Schulties to replace a pump at the Winding Woods pump station through North Jersey wastewater cooperative pricing system in an amount not to exceed $18,911.

579
02:50:37.200 --> 02:50:52.479
>> Any objection? >> Okay. Uh Burough administrators report. >> I have one add-on that I'll lead off with, sir. The uh elevator repair. I need permission from the council to engage with New York, New Jersey elevator company to do a complete rebuild, including all of the hydraulics

580
02:50:52.479 --> 02:51:09.439
of the Burho elevator with a not to exceed price of $180,000. Is there any objection? Do we need a a roll call on that? >> Reso do we have a tenative okay so that we can begin the work?

581
02:51:09.439 --> 02:51:30.160
Is there anybody is does anybody object to beginning the work and then we'll follow up in a month's time with a reszo >> rebate from the people of justice. >> Well, wait a minute before before we go backwards, let's go let's go forward. Is there any objection to Glenn proceeding

582
02:51:30.160 --> 02:51:46.880
with this to to try you know if there's a business to go into at the moment is elevator repair? >> Yeah. Is there any >> whatever reason and and I've known elevator guys in my life and they're they're very good and decent tradesmen. They must be busier than the Dickens because

583
02:51:46.880 --> 02:52:03.279
>> any other contractors that >> so anyway is there any objection for Glenn to proceed this and then we'll follow up with the paperwork. All right, we have the not to exceed amount. We have the company name. Is that enough counselor to for Glenn to proceed and then we'll

584
02:52:03.279 --> 02:52:19.600
follow it up with with the necessary reso? >> Proceed to set up the the work line it all up and schedule it. Yes. >> Okay. Any objection? No objection. Okay. Go ahead. Go ahead. >> I only have uh we're looking to fill a vacancy at the police department because we had somebody resign. Authorization to

585
02:52:19.600 --> 02:52:35.520
appoint Kevin Monroe Jr. as a public safety telecommunicator effective August 1st, 2026. >> Any objection? I just have a question. I I thought that we were not replacing anybody that was leaving this year until the end of the year. I thought we

586
02:52:35.520 --> 02:52:51.040
discussed that during the budget process. >> Well, in this particular instance, it creates an inord an inordinate amount of overtime leaving that position open. It would be fiscally more prudent to fill it with somebody at straight time. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Okay. Any objections? Anything else,

587
02:52:51.040 --> 02:53:11.840
Glenn? That's it, sir. >> All right. CFO's report. Yeah. Can you guys all hear me? >> Oh, thank you, mayor. I only have one thing for tonight. It's uh authorization to release escrow to Colonial Gardens Builders LLC for 21 John Street in the

588
02:53:11.840 --> 02:53:30.319
amount of $1,863.50. >> Okay. Anything else, Danielle? >> No, that's it. Thank you. >> Thank you. Burough engineers report. >> Thank you, Mayor. Two items. First is improvement to Oak Street. Looking for approval of a change order that's not going to increase the contract amount. It allows the contractor to do extra work requested by the burrow. Need a

589
02:53:30.319 --> 02:53:45.200
resolution for that. Second item is a resolution entering an agreement with the uh DOT concerning their project on Route 9 toward the Parkway ramp and South Amboy. There's water and sewer lines that have to be relocated. So, they need to have an agreement with the burrow to cover that. That's all I have. Thank you.

590
02:53:45.200 --> 02:54:02.120
>> Thank you. At this time, I'm Oh, Joe. Uh borrow attorney's report. >> Thank you. Nothing this evening, Mayor. >> Okay. At this time, I'm going to open the public portion for questions or comments on all topics. Uh, John,

591
02:54:12.319 --> 02:54:32.479
>> you might need a motion or you [clears throat] chair. Okay. Yeah. Oh, I'm sorry, Ken. [laughter] Can you get past me? Okay. >> Thank you, uh, council president. Uh, in view of the hour, I'm not going to take,

592
02:54:32.479 --> 02:54:48.960
uh, five minutes or anywhere near that. Uh, just want to make a couple of quick comments. I want to thank the councilman up here who changed their votes on making this firehouse a historic site. Um, I know it took a long time for that

593
02:54:48.960 --> 02:55:03.920
to happen because there were a lot of instances where we tried to do that. I think it's very important and I do want to thank you for changing your votes and seeing the light. Uh, I want to thank uh, Councilman Blemer for uh, his

594
02:55:03.920 --> 02:55:22.240
continued uh, his continued support for a total ban on on the centers. Um, I think that's uh that's what you heard the public wants to do. Uh, 18 months to most people does

595
02:55:22.240 --> 02:55:38.560
not seem adequate and uh I hope you'll move forward with that uh as quickly as possible. Uh it's good that we got the 18 months under our belt but uh the mayor talked about uh litigation etc. I want to tell you uh I have heard from

596
02:55:38.560 --> 02:55:56.160
some professionals over the the last year or so about a couple of lawsuits that we were involved in and they said the reason we got into them was that our laws in town weren't right. Obviously, I'm not going to go into what suits they were and were but they said if we had if

597
02:55:56.160 --> 02:56:11.359
we had proper land use laws, it probably wouldn't have happened. And if it did happen, it wouldn't have come to the extent it was and cost us what it did. So I think that is important and what uh

598
02:56:11.359 --> 02:56:28.399
what Mary said up here about uh getting this uh 18 months uh under our belt because somebody comes in and boom uh you know now you got a problem. Um [clears throat] it's what happened. I'm

599
02:56:28.399 --> 02:56:43.920
sorry to Mayor Scone, but uh I I think we all know what happened to the affordable housing. The mayor himself four or five months ago said he didn't do it because, you know, people didn't want it. He didn't mention that the developers really didn't want it. I know that's for sure. Uh he never mentioned

600
02:56:43.920 --> 02:57:00.479
that, but it was a violation of the law. The affordable housing laws have been in effect for long before Kennedy O'Brien was ever mayor of Serville, probably 30, 35 years, a long, long time. and to just violate the laws. And what happened? Uh,

601
02:57:00.479 --> 02:57:16.080
somebody took it to court. Could have even been a front organization. I'm just saying that. I know that's a fact. But what happened? These developers who for years, went through no affordable housing here.

602
02:57:16.080 --> 02:57:31.600
They joined the lawsuit against the burrow. Now, wasn't that wasn't that a slap in the face? Wasn't that a slap on both sides of the face? And what happened? The judge The judge to settle his case. He overthrew our zoning

603
02:57:31.600 --> 02:57:48.319
ordinances. The builders cried, "Well, yeah, we want to build affordable housing, but now we have no space." And he overthrew our zoning ordinance. And that's why when you ride down the street, you see you see the buildings. They look like the you know what they look like. You ever play Monopoly? They

604
02:57:48.319 --> 02:58:03.760
look like the hotels and Monopoly one on top of the other. That's what happened. The judge overthrew the zoning ordinance. So, we know what happens when you ignore laws or you don't have the right laws in effect. So, I'm glad we got this 18 month in effect. But, uh,

605
02:58:03.760 --> 02:58:30.800
I'm asking Councilman Blemer, don't let that stop you. Uh, Councilman, you're on this from day one and and I thank you for your efforts in it. I'm going to withhold anything else from view of the hour. Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Ken. Heather. Good evening. It's very late. Uh Heather

606
02:58:30.800 --> 02:58:49.439
Yoni, 15 Ida Street. Uh first I would like to just thank the council for finally giving the historic designation to the 1909 town hall. It has been a fight um that the historical society has been fighting for 12 years. Um, so to

607
02:58:49.439 --> 02:59:06.000
finally see a bit of that come to fruition is just it's it's very it's it means a lot. Um, I do have some words uh that I'd like to read. I'm just going to pull this down. Uh, as the president, the newly elected

608
02:59:06.000 --> 02:59:20.960
president of the Seville Historical Society, I'm writing to formally express my profound concerns regarding the current lack of transparency and oversight surrounding the 1909 town hall restoration plans. While my predecessor

609
02:59:20.960 --> 02:59:37.680
uh advocated exceptionally well for this landmark, my approach will be significantly more direct than his was. Um, it is entirely unacceptable that our organization, meaning the Seville Historical Society, uh, which holds the custodial memory of this municipality,

610
02:59:37.680 --> 02:59:52.640
has been excluded from the planning process and permitted to attend only a single consultation meeting. Having met with all of the council uh, members sitting up here, I know we have stressed these concerns in the meetings that we had. Um, and thank you all for attending

611
02:59:52.640 --> 03:00:09.680
those meetings. It's sincerely appreciated. Um, just kind of going back to the few points I wanted to make for record. Um, the systematic disregard for historical integrity that was recently demonstrated during the reckless removal of the building's antique safes. Um, I

612
03:00:09.680 --> 03:00:24.800
just kind of want to touch on that. Um, I don't know if anyone has noticed the structural damage near the window uh on the front fascia of the building, the 1909 town hall. Um, these irreplaceable artifacts, meaning the safes that were

613
03:00:24.800 --> 03:00:41.840
extracted, um, were done so with a complete lack of care, resulting resulting in structural damage to the building before being discarded in the trash, meaning the safes, the antique safes were discarded in the trash. Um, this incident underscores a broader

614
03:00:41.840 --> 03:00:56.880
failure to understand the basic preservation standards. We demand that the contractors responsible for the removal of those safes um are held fully accountable for the negligence and that their liability insurance completely fund the necessary restoration work because as we all know that shouldn't

615
03:00:56.880 --> 03:01:16.240
come on taxpayer money anymore. Um they didn't make that mistake. Furthermore, um I know that there are designs out there about the proposed plan for the 1909 town hall. Um I I know that um many

616
03:01:16.240 --> 03:01:31.439
have seen it. Uh we got our hands on it and we did put it out onto Facebook. It is an absolute abomination. Um considering the history that that building has. Um it is an unacceptable

617
03:01:31.439 --> 03:01:47.279
compromise of our local heritage in my opinion. uh the burough architect. Maybe they simply lack the specialized expertise required to navigate uh complexities of retrofitting a 117year-old building. Um but it's a

618
03:01:47.279 --> 03:02:03.840
deficiency that is painfully evident in the design. Um this project requires immediate oversight with a certified historic preservation specialist before irreversible irreversible sorry damage is done to the building's architectural fabric.

619
03:02:03.840 --> 03:02:19.760
My hope with this uh historic designation, which we incredibly appreciate, we hope that we can bring the focus back to getting the collaboration back on track with what should have been originally promised, which was when that referendum went

620
03:02:19.760 --> 03:02:36.960
through, it was our understanding that the Seville Historical Society would be a more integrated part of that process, and we have not. Um, with the exception of being at one meeting. Um, I know that my predecessor, uh, former president, uh, Frank Terzino, he has sent numerous

621
03:02:36.960 --> 03:02:51.279
emails that have never been returned. Um, so I'm hoping today is the start of a new foot forward. Um, I'm hoping that as a board you can look at those plans and possibly maybe consider redoing them because the current plan looks

622
03:02:51.279 --> 03:03:12.399
absolutely atrocious. Thank you. >> Thank you, Heather. and congratulations and Frank uh really a wonderful job. Before you come up though, uh or while you're coming up, Jay, can you um touch on the damage to the building or or Jay or Glenn, but I think Jay, I know we had

623
03:03:12.399 --> 03:03:28.160
a conversation about it. >> Yeah, there there was damage done by the contractor that was removing some materials from the front of the building and he's been contacted. He's aware that he's responsible and there will be details prepared as to what he needs to done do to take care of the problem.

624
03:03:28.160 --> 03:03:44.880
Does anything need to be done immediately to shore that up? >> No. Now, if we're talking number of months before the project moves to its next phase, then I would say we need to do something before that. But there were discussions about moving

625
03:03:44.880 --> 03:03:59.760
this forward over the next couple months. So, I we should be okay with that. >> Thinking though, we're probably going to have conversations. So, we you probably should look towards getting that short up. We we will proceed to have a detail

626
03:03:59.760 --> 03:04:16.080
prepared and get in touch with the contractor and have them take care of that. >> Thank you, Frank. >> I'm sorry. I have one I have one question. Who's who authorized uh those guys to actually take out the safe and then throw them away? Who was who was

627
03:04:16.080 --> 03:04:31.600
the person that authorized that? >> Because the historical society was given an opportunity. Frank would agree on several occasions to go in and remove any artifacts

628
03:04:31.600 --> 03:04:48.160
required to be sustained. Anything else left after that was considered removable and it was removed as debris cuz we they gutted the entire building. >> Yeah. But I'm thinking a safe that old one thing is uh >> we couldn't handle that. That's too that

629
03:04:48.160 --> 03:05:04.319
was too big for us. >> Oh, okay. So, >> but it should have been either scrapped or or saved in the building >> because when I saw the pictures, I was like, "What?" You know, but okay. >> It It's history now. >> Thank you. >> History. Funny history.

630
03:05:04.319 --> 03:05:20.319
>> That's true. >> Rank Traino Canal Street Cerevil. I first want to clarify uh and set the record straight about my comment. July 29th at the council chambers here uh when the architect was here uh presenting his plan. Uh, I was quoted as

631
03:05:20.319 --> 03:05:34.960
saying, "I'm okay with it." I did say those words, but they were I was nervous like I am now a little bit and I struggled to speak before a crowd. Um, I intended to say it didn't come out that way that I accept the ar I accept that

632
03:05:34.960 --> 03:05:52.479
the architect stated the exterior will mimic the current burrow hall and I was thrilled to hear the architect say he would attempt to remove the brick coat and make it look as it was original as possible. And I said I was okay with that's what I was going for. I wasn't

633
03:05:52.479 --> 03:06:09.040
okay with all the other excuse the expression nonsense. But we're here today. Let's move forward. Uh at that meeting I was supposed to meet we were supposed to meet with the architect again to go over before they made the resolution which is supposed to be tonight and they pulled it which was

634
03:06:09.040 --> 03:06:23.760
was good. Uh and and by the way thanks for the local designation. That means a lot to to everybody. Um, and I lost my train. I thought, yeah, we were supposed to have another meeting after the presentation, but Eden, they never

635
03:06:23.760 --> 03:06:41.359
contacted me. Um, so I was wondering if before they make the presentation in front of you guys, can we get a presentation so we know what we're talking about, what's going on? Because they have them come up here and present and you vote on it. That wouldn't be fair to us or to

636
03:06:41.359 --> 03:06:56.160
the people. Uh, so I was looking maybe we can do something like that, some kind of [clears throat] some kind of role. And I like to also keep in mind that the November 5th referendum wording should the Burough Ser will seek to

637
03:06:56.160 --> 03:07:13.600
preserve the town hall firehouse, not modify, not change. Uh, preservation means maintain, keep intact, keep original state. Uh preservation is the act of maintaining or protecting something of historical value, cultural,

638
03:07:13.600 --> 03:07:29.439
architectural uh significance and form. Um adaptive use repurpose historical buildings for new functions while retaining historic characters. I hope we're all on the same page now. It would

639
03:07:29.439 --> 03:07:46.399
be so much easier on on the on the brain if we all work together. And I think we could do this. Um, and I did mention to Glenn, he got back to me today about the Kraken, and he told me it's he did give me some in

640
03:07:46.399 --> 03:08:02.479
insight on that. So, and uh I said Glenn's the only one that really got back to me and Stan got back to me a couple times, but when I uh email Glenn, he pretty much gets back to me. I think Mikey did a couple times, but it

641
03:08:02.479 --> 03:08:18.720
was nothing really substantial. It was just like, "Okay, I hear you. Um, I think that's all there. There's one thing here. I haven't we haven't seen the plans. We don't know what they are, but they were talking about a festibule

642
03:08:18.720 --> 03:08:34.720
in the front like a greenhouse in front of the firehouse. I think that'd be it's out of control. It shouldn't happen. Under what I want to ask, I thought they were going to be here tonight. Under what code did it go under to determine if was required? I did some research.

643
03:08:34.720 --> 03:08:50.976
Department of Energy uh conservation code, big long number, uh states exceptions to the vestibules, including that if entering a conditioned room at 3,000 square feet or more require require

644
03:08:50.976 --> 03:09:07.920
[clears throat] vest uh require vestibules. Under 3,000 square feet does not. That's under 3,000 square feet. There should be no greenhouse in front of the uh and uh going over the video from the presentation.

645
03:09:07.920 --> 03:09:22.479
If you they said if you see the vestibule it'll disappear. I mean you know I'm not a magician. I don't they said you won't be able to see it. Well that's see I'm getting nervous again but uh that's the point we're trying to make

646
03:09:22.479 --> 03:09:39.520
and we appreciate every you know making it landmark. Um, do we know when it's going to be uh up for vote, resolution, or next meeting, two meetings, or any idea? >> I think that's yet to be determined because I think at this point we haven't

647
03:09:39.520 --> 03:09:56.160
commissioned the uh architect to do anything more than I believe that one rendition. So, I don't know, Glenn, is there any plans with meeting further? Uh they're going to need to come in and meet with the council and just review what the proposal is to get permission

648
03:09:56.160 --> 03:10:20.720
detail architectural. >> Yeah, there's a lot of things to be concerned, you know, uh concerning. >> Um All right. Thank you. >> Thank you, Frank. >> Yes, sir. Right. >> A quick question. Are we locked in with

649
03:10:20.720 --> 03:10:35.439
that engineer >> or do we have >> That's your >> No, no, the for the for the for the firehouse for the rendering. >> Yeah. >> The architect. I'm sorry. >> The appointed burough engineer. Yeah. >> So, we're architect. >> Architect. Sorry. So, we're locked in.

650
03:10:35.439 --> 03:10:51.200
We don't have a choice because the reason why I'm ask why I'm asking is I was told that this architect in particular doesn't have u hasn't doesn't have the credentials to work on a on a on a a historical site.

651
03:10:51.200 --> 03:11:07.920
Is that >> he's a qualified architect that we've used for many projects in town. As far as whether or not he has a particular historic certification or something like that exists, I would have no idea.

652
03:11:07.920 --> 03:11:23.600
>> Maybe you could find out if somebody in his firm does. >> Okay. >> I mean, I don't even know if that's a thing, a historical certification, but at least like uh >> some that have done this a lot and from what I understand, this guy really has never done.

653
03:11:23.600 --> 03:11:39.840
>> That's what I heard. So that's what I'm I'm inquiring. So that's one of their one of the issues that was brought up to us that the architect uh doesn't really have a you know a history on on on this type of uh of work. >> I think maybe it would be prudent then

654
03:11:39.840 --> 03:11:55.760
when he comes in to meet and explain his work thus far that you guys can closely question him and determine for yourselves whether or not you feel he's appropriate for the task at hand. >> Well the I think that's the historical society should >> whomever you would like to have that done. Can we, you know, can we get them

655
03:11:55.760 --> 03:12:14.800
included on this? Thank you, >> sir. Uh, Mike Mona, Weber Avenue. Again, sort of. Uh, a lot of things I have here were touched on already. So, but the traffic lights, you talked about the one by um,

656
03:12:14.800 --> 03:12:30.000
steel mill. >> Yeah, >> that's a messed up. Also, even the next one by the bridge, uh, Main Street and the extension where it starts, that one seems to be a little off maybe. And especially the next one by the fire

657
03:12:30.000 --> 03:12:44.720
training center. That one has been always messed up. Like it'll come to that. There's nobody even around. And it's red. Um, was that I don't know if it was ever addressed. Usually a uh whoever it might be a county road, so it might not even be

658
03:12:44.720 --> 03:13:01.279
>> it's county DOT, but we can. I believe the guy just has to put a computer on it, adjust the camera maybe, and and fix that issue hopefully. Um, uh, Stash, I already mentioned they're going to redo that sewer, uh, the pump

659
03:13:01.279 --> 03:13:16.880
stations on Weber. Is that true? >> Controls, the controls are probably going to be updated. >> Control because I I went by there before the meeting. I saw there's only two out of three pumps are there. >> So, one's was taken out for whatever reason. I don't know. >> One has to be replaced. One has to be and the other two work.

660
03:13:16.880 --> 03:13:32.080
>> Two work. >> Okay. And the automation doesn't work I assume. >> Correct. >> Okay. And the sewer system itself is that jetted since last week or something because that was clogged up. Seemed like even last night there was water in the

661
03:13:32.080 --> 03:13:47.600
street. >> I saw the catch face inside past your house. I if I went I'll check on >> right. I they may be fixed today. I don't >> I thought they were still search charged because the water was in the street at the lower level. So the storm drain up further past your house would have water

662
03:13:47.600 --> 03:14:05.120
in it because the elevation would find center. >> Correct. >> I'll go back there now and look. >> Very good. Um Oh, is there a list of streets that are going to get paved in the town? Say some is Miller Avenue one of them

663
03:14:05.120 --> 03:14:20.399
>> because that's horrible. >> Miller. >> Miller Avenue. Is that getting paved by chance? It's not It's not on current list now. >> So, I think I lost a filling on that street the other day. >> That's how bad it is. >> All right. Um, that's about it. And sulfers. I used to go to sulfers all the

664
03:14:20.399 --> 03:14:35.680
time, too. Drank out of that spring, >> of course. >> Right. >> A built-in uh water fountain right there. Um, okay. And the the comp Com Comcast wanting to come into town is great news

665
03:14:35.680 --> 03:14:52.399
for competition with uh with Optimum. [clears throat] And I just I remember when COVID was going on, I remember Comcast had like free like the guy was saying, they're offering free uh internet places like

666
03:14:52.399 --> 03:15:08.960
that, which is great. And then on the other hand, Optimum, I remember they had commercials saying, "Oh, your home, we could boost your internet for [clears throat] $30 more a month or something, you know." So, that rubbed me the wrong way. So, I'm I'm for Comcast,

667
03:15:08.960 --> 03:15:28.479
but that's about it. All right. Thank you. >> Thanks, Mike. >> Anybody else from the audience from the public this evening? >> Sure. So, real quick, Brandt Wright, uh, 154 Palaski. Um, the paving in the town,

668
03:15:28.479 --> 03:15:43.040
what has been done has been great. Deerfield Avenue in my 33 years in this town has never been that good. The only thing I ask, can we paint the curbs to prevent cars

669
03:15:43.040 --> 03:15:59.520
from parking on the apexes of the curbs on both side of the road? The town is great. living on Palaski. We used to have signs saying no parking. There's one sign for the quarter mile length of Palaski now. So the signs have

670
03:15:59.520 --> 03:16:14.800
been removed over the last 20 plus years. Curbs aren't being painted. So people are parking wherever they are. So for safety if we can look into that >> and I'll be back next month for others.

671
03:16:14.800 --> 03:16:30.640
>> I appreciate that. I know Pilaski Avenue has we've heard a lot about the parking issues on Pilaski Avenue. So I don't if we could just get DPW take a look and get some signs back up and maybe some enforcement as well would be >> that car is parked. >> Thank you.

672
03:16:30.640 --> 03:16:47.160
>> Anybody else? >> Thank you. >> Can I get a motion to close public portion? >> So moved. >> Uh all in favor? >> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I I motion for adjournment.

673
03:16:47.680 --> 03:16:52.399
>> All in favor? I >> thank you everybody.

