Yeah. >> Good evening. Welcome to the 9th meeting of the year. Today is June 29th, 2026. Alyssa, can you please read the publication? >> In compliance with chapter 231 of public law, 1975. Notice of this meeting to be held at the Criminal Justice Building,
61 Main Street, South River, has been published in the Home News Tribune on January 7th, 2026. posted on the municipal building bulletin board, the burough website, in the front door of the criminal justice building at 61 Main Street, South River. >> Roll call. >> Mayor Gindy >> here. >> Councilman Dilva
>> here. >> Councilman Donado >> here. >> Councilman Damian >> here. >> Councilman Janopouolis >> here. >> Councilman Gchensky >> here. >> Council President Dantis >> here. >> Please stand for a salute to the flag and a moment of silence. Pledge allegiance to the flag of the
United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> You may be seated. Let me do this. Uh we are going to have one uh presentation. I'll do it from
over here. >> As you all know, you're surrounded by lots of pictures that represent what South River mayors have been through in the last past decades upon decades dating as far back as 1886, which is
picture not up here, which is James. Today we're honoring a person that should have been honored quite a few year quite a long time ago. Um to have his picture up here as well. This individual has served for our
municipality in 1977 to 2007 as a member of the Summit Fire Department. While doing that in 1989 to 2000, he was a financial secretary as well. While doing that in 1985 as well as 1987 to 1992 he
was a member of the South Board of Health. While serving he was also the vice president from 1988 to 1989. Then he became president in 1990 to 1992.
1995 to 1998 and then 2000 to 2007 he served on the planning board. then became a councilman from 1993 to 1990. Served on multiple ladies on positions such as finance, utilities, welfare, and
public safety. Soon after he became a mayor from 2000 2007, Mr. Again, I've had the pleasure not only serving on the planning board with you, but also part of you when it came down to the
council. Here's your picture. Come on, say a few words. So, I'd like to thank the mayor and council. I'd also especially like to thank Chief Tenin because he did some investigative work and found my picture in the closet. >> Okay.
>> I don't see any dart holes, so I'm okay. So, thank you. You're >> welcome. Uh it the the project of of the pictures were were happened when we redid the building here and this
building uh if you were on you were here. Well, at one point when the building was stripped and emptied, uh, we actually there was a group, the Ghostbusters,
who came out of Woodbridge who came into the building. And at one point the cells were down the cellar. And so they came in with uh like energy lamps. I mean the fire department
would know them as the uh inf info the thermal >> imaging imaging >> thing >> and they saw ghosts or energy of a ghost and they had tape recorders that almost
sounded like geer counters and they put them in the cells downstairs because the story goes that there was a a a prisoner who took his wife downstairs and allegedly either in the 20s or 30s
there was a a chief who somebody came in off the street um and um shot him dead at at his desk. So it it was interesting to know that this all happened. And while this was happening, we redid some some of the
pictures. We went out and tried to find other mayors. And there are still some mayors that are are bashful about having their picture taken. So, um I thank the historical society which took on the project and and my picture finally
appears. So, I thank you all for that. >> You're welcome. >> Thank you for all the service you have done for the Burl South River. >> Thank you. Take care. Want to take a picture? Sure. And happy things have gone down the last 100 years. >> Good.
just looking to see what I did years ago when I was a little younger. >> Yeah. >> There next two or three more meetings there will be other pictures that are going to go up. Um >> I was actually back here the whole time.
So we might use it for the TV. >> Oh, thank you. Yeah. >> Now, there's some mayors uh after me that >> I know >> and you know, one or two before me that are are shy. >> So, >> there'll be a couple more for the next
couple meetings. >> Thank you again. >> Thank you, MR. ZIGETTI. WE'RE GOING TO GO INTO AGENDA SESSIONS. THERE are uh three second readings. Uh Joe, first one 2026-15. >> First one is a second reading and adoption of a bond ordinance. This was
for the purchase of a sanitation truck, uh various police equipment, turnout gear for the fire department, sewer system improvements, and uh turf field for veterans, which was funded 50% by the county. >> Okay.
>> Uh John, uh 202616 as well as 202617. >> Uh 202616, uh that's an ordinance amending chapter 72 and and chapter 246. This uh ordinance as uh drafted and proposed is
targeted at amending the procedures around uh the access and use of the fire stations. Uh making it clear that uh the fire stations are owned by the municipality and under the governance of the uh mayor and council as the
governing body. Uh ordinance 2617. This is an ordinance amending chapter 103 titled alcohol alcoholic beverages. This ordinance uh as drafted and proposed would amend the permitted hours of sale by uh bars and liquor stores
within the burrow specifically on Sundays. Right now uh there are prohibited hours of sale from 2:00 a.m. to noon on Sundays. Uh, if this ordinance is uh adopted tonight, that will change from 2:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. So, the earliest that a liquor store or
bar could open on Sundays would be 10:00 a.m. Now, >> right. Thank you. Uh, Lisa 2026-15. >> Ordinance 202615 bond ordinance providing for various capital improvements and the acquisition of various capital equipment
appropriating $2,921,000. Therefore, in authorizing the issuance of $1,85,000 bonds and notes to finance a portion of the cost thereof authorized in and by the burrow of South River in the county of Middle Sex, New Jersey. >> Motion to the full read.
>> Motion by Council President Sennis. Second. >> Second by Councilman Kosinsky. >> All in favor? >> I I have a count uh like to open this up to the public. >> First call. Second call. >> Motion to close public. Motion by
council president Dennis. Second by councilman Dinian. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Council discussion. >> I have a motion. >> Motion to adopt. >> Motion by councilman. Council president Desanis. >> Second. >> Councilman. Seconded by Councilman Kosinsky.
>> Councilwoman Dilva. >> Yes. >> Councilman Donado. >> Yes. >> Councilman Dazmian. >> Yes. >> Councilman Janopouolis. >> Yes. >> Councilman Gchensky. >> Yes. >> Council President Dantis. >> Yes. >> All right. 202616. Ordinance 202616,
an ordinance amending chapter 72, public safety department of and chapter 246, parks, playgrounds, and public buildings of the code of the burough of South River to update procedures concerning the administration, use, and access of burrow owned property. >> Motion to wave the full reading.
>> Motion by council president Desanis. >> Second. >> Second by Councilwoman Dilva. >> All in favor? I I >> public I'd like to open this to the public. Good evening, Mayor and Council. Excuse me. Wayne Wagner, 7 Hail Road, East Brunswick.
Currently serve as president of Engine Company number one, Southro Fire Department. Um, just for the record, I think everybody knows the fire department has some reservations about this ordinance and overwhelmingly we're against it. Um, just wanted that to be known. What I'd really like to do is
thank both Nick and uh Matt for meeting with us last Wednesday to hear us out. It was a frankly quite a great meeting. We um I think we accomplished a lot. Very civil, very um very well done. So we'd also like to offer if if there's
any ordinances in the future, we'd be more than happy to sit down with the governing body and try to assist. Listen to our ideas. We'll listen to yours and um go from there. But Nick, Matt, thank you again. Thank you. >> Thank you. Anyone else from the public?
First call. >> Second call. >> Motion to close public. >> Second. >> Motion by Council President Desanis. Seconded by Councilman Kashinski. >> All in favor? >> I. >> I'd like to open this to council discussion. All right. I'd like to open this for a
motion. Going once, going twice. Motion dies. List of 2026-17. >> Ordinance 202617, an ordinance amending chapter 103,
alcoholic beverages, article 1, alcoholic beverages, section 103-17, hours of sale of the code of the burough of South River to amend the prohib the prohibited hours of sale on Sundays. >> Motion we have the full reading. Second >> motion by council president des seconded
by councilman Kushinsky. >> All in favor I >> like to open this up to the public. >> First call. >> Second call. >> Motion to close public. >> Motion by council president Desanis. >> Second. >> Second by councilman Demian. >> All in favor.
>> I. >> Council discussion. >> Do I have a motion? >> Motion to adopt. >> Motion by councilman council president Desanis. >> Second. Second by councilman Kensky. >> Councilwoman Dilva, >> yes. >> Councilman Donado, >> yes. >> Councilman Damian, >> yes.
>> Councilman Janopalis, >> yes. >> Councilman Gchensky, >> yes. >> Council President Dantis, >> yes. >> All right, I'd like to go into reports. Uh Justin Arion. >> Thank you, Mayor. Brief update on the capital projects taking place within the bureau for the 2023 and 2024 local aid
program. All work has been completed and our office is working on project closeout with the state. the 2023 local transportation projects grant which includes improvements to Alborne Street from Ferris Street to Sepi Avenue, Franklin Street from Wilson Avenue to Pilaski Avenue and Aleski Avenue from
TAB Avenue to Apprentice Avenue. Construction began today. Notices were delivered and moving forward notices will be delivered to the streets as 40 48 hours before each phase begins. The 2025 local aid program, a pre-construction meeting was held on
June 18th with Fernandez construction and construction is expected to begin in mid July. The 2023 electrical substation maintenance project work is continuing. The 2026 local aid program, all survey work has been completed and project
design is underway. the George Street and Washington Street one-way study. All traffic count data has been completed and our office is in the middle of prep preparing the analysis. Then for the 2027 local aid program, uh our office submitted an application to the state and this
includes improvements to John Street from Old Bridge Turnpike to Rose Street, Hollander Street from John Street to Amherst Street, Nelson Street from East Prospect Street to uh Chestnut Street. Then we also submitted an application for a bike path improvement and that would be from Gowski Park to possess a
recreation area. Then last we have the Veterans Drive parking lot wetland delineation. Our environmental team began uh delineation on the wetlands. That's all I have. >> Thank you councelor discussion one. Thank you Justin Joe.
>> Thanks mayor. A couple of resolutions. First one is a resolution to award a contract to the licensed water operator through December of 2026. Another resolution for submitting a grant for radios for the fire department. And the last one is a resolution for renewing our prescription coverage from July 1st,
26 to June 30th of 27. It's 23.5% increase. So, we went out and and had different vendors propose on it. That was the cheapest one, but we are trying to look to do something different, but we're not there yet. So, eventually we're going to try and come back to the governing body with something else for prescription because this is getting out
of control. >> Well, health. >> But this is the health benefits too. This is the cheapest of everyone. We submitted that submitted a proposal to us. >> Council discussion. No. Um,
fire chief Scott. Uh right now um we're waiting on parts uh to come in for fix truck. Um probably another pretty much That's what we're going to
be dealing with this week. >> Sure. >> Thank you, >> John. >> Nothing to report tonight. You mean >> Alissa? >> Nothing to report. Mark, >> just a couple things on the agenda items for resolution resolution number 182
authorizing officer Patrick Molina to serve as acting sergeant. He's taking over for Sergeant Roselli who announced his retirement and be will be retiring effective December 1st. Pat Officer Molina is more than capable of taking on this new role. He uh is actually the next person on our list to get promoted.
Uh so he'll be in this role until uh December 1st and at that point in time he'll be promoted to sergeant. Um the Main Street Road improvement project, they pushed back the date when they're actually going to start milling and paving. So their tenative date is July 6th or the 30th. >> They just changed it to
>> the 27th. So it could get pushed back more. They're a little bit behind. Uh just remember it's going to take approximately about a week. They're going to do all the milling during the daytime hours and they're going to do all of the paving at nighttime during the week. So that's that's to come later in the month. And as a reminder, um, by
the time we come to the next council meeting, all the ebike laws will be in effect. Uh, the grace period, uh, deadline is July 19th. So, if you have, if you have a ebike or or e scooter, motorized bicycle, uh, you have to have it licensed, you have to have it registered, and you have to have it
insured. >> Councilman Donado, >> actually nothing at this point. Councilman Junior Copus. >> Um >> I just wanted to report on the uh Shade Tree Committee. The uh recent planning on Lower Main Street has been really successful except for the one tree in
front of the memorial building. Uh it looks to be suffering from being overwatered, which is not the case. I think there's a problem with the uh tree pit. Water coming up into the tree pit causing that tree to uh retain water. and we are going to look into it and see
why that water is there. And just for everyone's knowledge, those trees do come with a one-year u warranty. So, it will be getting replaced once we figure out why that tree is retaining a lot of water. Uh the shade tree committee is also
uh presently working on a fall planting program. Those areas have yet to be determined. and the committee is uh we are working on having a email that you can communicate with the shade tree committee set up. Um that should be set
up shortly and uh until then you could always go to the uh burough website and click on applications and under there you'll see things having to do with the uh street trees and if you need a street tree
dealt with around you. The next Shade Tree Committee meeting is this Thursday. It's down at uh 48 Washington. Um and if you're interested in anything like that, show up for that meeting. And the EDC
has planned their uh farmers market which is starting in uh September. It's going to be every Sunday right to the end of uh October. It's going to be at the uh Burrow parking lot at uh Obert Street.
Um and we're looking forward to having that. It'll be something for people to do Sunday afternoon. You know, get out there maybe after church or after whatever you're doing Sunday. There'll be a farmers market down there. And uh we're going to keep it going through the fall. So, that'll be something fun to do
on Sundays with your family. And that's all I have. Mayor, thank you. >> Thank you, Councilman Dei. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um the frost on the pumpkin road race is moving forward. Uh a lot has been done uh lately. Um flyers have been created. They're being distributed to local races. Uh banner
banner is being updated and will soon be uh posted around town. Um letters went out to local businesses and we're getting responses for donations. Advertisement is now the focus and if anyone spread the word um it's it's
moving forward. It's going well. October 25th 5K runw walk try to get as many participants as possible. Um in July I'll be doing the basketball fundamentals again with the youth. I thank the recck department for helping
me set that up and looking forward to that on Saturdays. There'll be three times um like we did last year. They all had a great time and looking forward to that again. And that's all I have. Mayor, >> thank you. Councilwoman D Silva. >> Okay. Um, our food bank in town um is
hosting a school supply drive which is underway and it's going to go through August 15th. Um, anybody who'd like to donate can do so um in three locations. Corpus Christie Church, there's bins um drop off bins are located by the
entrance of the church. Holy Trinity uh church. Um there's bins are located at the church's office and you could also drop off in the bucket outside the South River Food Bank. Um they're looking for binders, folders, pencil cases, spiral
notebooks, scissors, glues, a bunch of supplies. All items donated will be distributed to families in South River via the South River Food Bank. So the deadline is August 15th. Um, with any questions, you can call Beth over at the
food bank. Her number is 732 3228623. So, it's a good idea to help out our local families in town. Um, our Cultural Arts and Heritage Commission is planning on having our annual South River Day, which is scheduled for October 17th
right now. Uh, they are looking for vendors. So, if you're interested, please reach out to Teresa Hutchinson um at the cultural arts. Her email can be found on our burough website. Um, we are looking for vendors. We have a lot of businesses in town. Um, so it would be
nice to have our local businesses involved, but any vendors are welcomed. Um, our library. Just want to remind everybody about the amazing activities they have going on for both kids and adults over at the library. Um, my favorite ones actually this Wednesday,
uh, they're at 2 p.m. they'll be having a special guest, which is Toby, our mini Highland cow. So, if you're available, parents, uh, bring your children, stop by. There'll be a lot of activities and a lot of fun for them. And right now, that's it. >> Thank you, Councilman Kosinsky.
>> Thank you, mayor. Um, the office on aging uh they are going to have a closure due to extensive road work on Reed Street in front of the uh human services building. The office on aging will be closed from Monday, July 13th
through Friday, July 24th. Um and transportation services will be suspended beginning July 8th and more than likely extend through the month of August. Um the date of return will be published in
the August newsletter. Uh let's see. We'll also be closed on July 3rd, the day before in celebration for Independence Day. And they also have a wellness a well-being initiative program being introduced. Um and it will have a
wellness lab and an emotional wellness support. And this is in in addition to some of the other programs that they have too. Uh which is basically a lot for the seniors and uh between the fitness, the yoga, what have you, and some of the other things. With
that, that's all I have. Mayor, thank you. >> Thank you, Council President. Yes, I do have a question for Nick. Nick, the tree that died, that's the one that Peter touched, right? >> That does happen to be the one that he did touch. >> I just want to I was just confirming that.
>> Um, >> you're good. >> For the uh recreation advisory board, I would like to congratulate the Lions on winning this year's Little League Championship. Pop Warner football and cheerleading registration is open and please register as soon as possible because when we see the registration we
know what age groups for teams we will have. Uh the season starts mid July and it's for ages 5 through 13. We're also having a girls flag football team. There's a bunch of different age groups between the ages of 5 and 18 and these teams will be made up of South River children who will go play other towns.
So it is a travel league. Um, we also have the free fundamentals as Councilman Demian mentioned at Sheldon Shinfine, also known as Leonard Dean Park, which is led by Councilman Demian and Coach Carmine. It is a free clinic, but you must register to attend. And the dates
are July 11th, 18th, and 25th from 10 to 11:30 a.m., and it's for boys and girls entering preschool up to 2 grade. There's also going to be a free football clinic on July 15th and 16th at Veterans Park. Pop Warner registrants will automatically eligible for the clinic,
but even those not signing up for the football season with Pop Warner can attend, but you must register. Uh lastly, later on in the consent resolutions, we have um possible approval of Joka Soccer Academy led by Zayn and Julian Taha. Um I've spoke
extensively with Zayn, especially I've gotten some feedback from other residents who have already utilized their academy. uh they're from East Brunswick, but they're local kids that want to make a difference. And our burrow needs a recreation soccer program for many different reasons. And uh hopefully with the rest of the council
support later today, that'll be fully announced as of about an hour or so. Uh and you can register for that online as well. For all activity registration, you visit the burough website, go to register at www.senj.org, click departments, then parks and
recreation, and you'll see a link to enroll. And if any issues online, you can call the office at 732254-4412. And our next recreation advisory board meeting will be on Monday, September 21st, 6 p.m. at 55 Reed Street. Residents are welcome and encouraged to attend. Thank you, mayor.
>> Thank you. I will hold off on my comments. Uh we have two Mariel appointments, uh human relations, Dr. Ariana Tundosco, as well as the land use board, which is David Bell for alternate 2. Uh Alyssa, we're going to go on consent resolutions, but consent
resolution 197 I like uh read separately, please. >> Whereas resolution 20261 authorizes the burough council to utilize a consent agenda to adopt various resolutions of a routine and non-controversial nature at one time. Now therefore, be it is hereby
resolved that the below listed resolutions are hereby adopted by the burough council and whole as if the same were individually acted upon. Consent resolutions 2026 179 to 2026 196 179 property tax refund for 13 Paloski
Avenue 180 property tax refund for 340 Elbridge turnpike 181 authorizing an award with CGP and H LLC for water operator 182 resolution authorizing officer Patrick Molina to serve as acting
sergeant 183 authorizing turnover of tax sale certificate number 21- 000084 granting renewal to ABC licenses for the 2627 license year 185 authorized 2026 salaries of certain
employees and officials. 186 authorizing the submission of a grant application. 187 Rescending the approval of a portion of resolution 2026139. 188 authorizing the receipt of bids for a lease of public property located at 6
Thomas Street. 189 authorizing the requisition of funds for payment to the custodian of the school monies. 190 authorizing a competitive contracting process for water testing and laboratory services. 191 authorizing Jooka Soccer Academy as
the official provider of recreational soccer programming. 192 authorizing fireworks display for South River recreation on August 21st, 2026. 193 accept May 11th, 2026 regular and executive session minutes. 194 accept
June 8th, 2026 regular meeting minutes. 195 authorize the bills and claims list. 196 authorizing renewal of prescription plan coverage with Benard services. >> Motion. Motion to approve. Motion by
council president Desanis. >> Second. Second by councilman Kosinski. >> Councilwoman Dilva. >> Yes. >> Councilman Donado. >> Yes. >> Councilman Demian. >> Yes. >> Councilman Janicopolis. >> Yes. >> Councilman Gchensky. >> Yes. >> Council President Dantis. >> Yes.
>> Lissa. Consent resolution 197. >> Resolution 2026 197. Resolution authorizing change order number three and number four for the project known as improvements to Leonardine Avenue, Barrel Street, Daily Street, Daryl Street, John Street, and various parks.
Whereas the governing body has received a change order request number three and four. >> Motion. >> Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Motion by council president Dennis. Second by council councilwoman Dilva.
All in favor? >> I >> Mr. Donado. >> Yes. Um, just a couple of questions. Uh, change order number three, which was a uh reduction in the amount of the contract. That's always great. I mean, we always look for that uh when we do
our projects. Um, but the uh the increase number four, what was the total amount of the project to begin with? >> Justin, >> yes. at a little over 2 million. >> Okay. Um and exactly what were the uh
items that um there's something that couldn't have been foreseen. I assume >> these were so there's actually additional money available in the contract. This is a interimm change order. There will be a final closeout change order which will reduce the total contract amount to about 1.8 million.
Um, these additional items were some improvements needed around the burrow, additional sidewalk at Growski Park and um, repairing some sidewalk at the firehouse. >> All right. So, they're basically unforeseen. >> Yes. >> Okay. All right. That's all. Thank you.
>> Any discussion? Council, do I have a motion? Motion adopt. >> Motion by council president Desanis. >> Second. >> Second by Councilman Kosinski. >> Councilman Dilva. >> Yes. >> Councilman Donado. >> Yes. Councilman Demian, >> yes. >> Councilman Janopus, >> yes. >> Councilman Gchensky,
>> yes. >> Council President Dantis, >> yes. >> Like to open it to the public. Got five minutes. State your name and address, please. Anybody? First call. Come on. Robert Vodak, 92 Cleveland Avenue. I'm
the chairman of the land use board in town. At the recent land use board meeting, uh there was a lot of discussion from a some a lot of the members about things that they feel might be able to benefit the council in making some of the decisions, some ideas
that some of the younger members had. Uh, and I just would encourage if it's possible, I know the mayor usually attends the meeting, Nick is our leazison, but anybody that could attend the meeting, um, they would really like to just explain to you some ideas that they had. Um, we could draft a letter
and send it to everybody, but it might be better if it's possible that you could attend the meeting and then they could just open up and let you know. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else from the public? Good. Good evening everyone. My name is Zen Taha and I first like to thank the
burrow and everyone at the rec department who believed in my brother and I. We are the co-founders of Joka Soccer Academy. We currently operate out of North Brunswick, New Jersey. But given the fact that we have so many people in South River and the need for a program in South River that allows these
kids to excel, we decided that to do everything possible to move here to the city. These kids need something where there's something accessible for everyone, which is going to be the wreck program, but there's also talent here to say that these kids can go all the way from wreck level to collegiate, even
professional. And so, we hope to bring a very credible and organized program that can see the kids of South River accomplish their dreams. And to say that they they they don't deserve it is unfair because over in Oldbridge, East Brunswick, everywhere else, kids can
just travel five minutes away and get the training that they need, whereas kids in South River have to go to Tin Falls everywhere else. We need that kind of program here. So, I'd like to thank especially um Council President Matthew Santis for everything he's done. And that's all I have to say. Thank you
everyone. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else from the public? Barry Bril, 20 Monosel away. Uh, this is about the closing of Collins Drive to Monaceel. I've been talking to a lot of my neighbors and they want to
know what was the real reason this road was closed. What is the real reason that Jeopard uh lowered our safety values? Cost us money. I mean, it's costing us a lot of
money for this closure. I mean, you know, it's somewhere between 12 and $20,000. I mean the parag landing people, they want to know why it's closed and it's costing them that much
money to have this street closed to have them drive around. Lower the safety because any emergency vehicles will either have to come from the south from the south or from the north. If it's open now, they could come from the west and get there faster. So it's
what's the real reason it was closed? I've already had a discussion too many times with you, sir. I >> know that, but I want to know what the real reason is. >> Safety. >> It's not the thing. I mean, >> safety. >> What's the real reason? >> Safety, sir. >> Huh?
>> Safety. >> You compromise other people's our safety for somebody's safety. What safety? Please let me know what safety. I mean, you know, you never explain nothing. You say words and you never explain it. >> I have a great idea. Why don't you speak
to the chief of police tomorrow? >> Wednesday. >> Wednesday. >> Wednesday. >> That's what you should do. >> 9:00. >> 9:00. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, sir.
>> Anyone else from the public? First call. Second call. Third call. >> Motion to close public. >> Motion by Council President Dennis. Seconded by Councilman Dazia. >> All in favor? >> Council comments. Uh Councilman Donado.
>> Uh yes, this is the uh just recently schools ended and I just want to compliment the uh crossing guards. I mean I've been up there practically every day. I don't know how they they get they actually go through what they go through with these crazy drivers. Um,
I'm not always the best driver, but uh they they do an awful lot. They protect our kids, and I really appreciate what they do. Now, with uh with of course closing of the school, there's only so many activities for these uh children,
we need to be on guard when we're driving around. But no matter what we do, parents have to be mindful of where their children are, what they're doing. But these uh ebikes again today coming in. I see these uh young people in the parks where the uh the toddlers are
playing with those ebikes scooting around here and there doing wheelies. Uh this is just inviting a terrible accident. And uh I I I hope I don't know how the police department is going to enforce this. You know, God bless him. I
wish you all the luck in the world. But uh we can't we can't give anybody um breaks on this. they know about it or they should know about it. Um when I thought it was actually January 1st, it seems like we have a few more days to
put up with this. But uh they were even out last meeting and uh our our council woman um boy I tell you, you don't want to mess with the women. She gave them what
say? Um, and the kids looked at her, were in shock, and I think they they scooted. One went in one direction, the other one went in the other direction, and uh I think they might have come back, but they were a little cautious about what they were doing. Um, I don't understand, but unfortunately
uh we're faced with what goes on. Um, I hope that nothing serious happens to anybody, but um I'm not confident that that is going to happen. Um, so it's going to take somebody getting really
seriously hurt or worse, and I really don't want to see that go on. Um second thing um oh yes by the way happy 4th of July to everyone before I forget and I will forget um that's coming up
and uh joy be safe watch out for those fireworks. Uh now on a more serious note um you know we have the water main project that's going on in town and um over
since the beginning I've been getting all kinds of signals back and forth how much what we're going to do what it's going to cost how long it's going to take seems to be a lot of uh confusion and I've reached out to various people try to get the background information
and unfortunately Um, I'm not getting anything in writing. And uh, there's one of our great presidents, Ronald Reagan. I admire that man because he a lot of quotes were were uh, made by him supposedly. And I think
if there's a lot of truth to it. One of them was trust but verify. I trust that people tell me they believe it's true. But I'm looking for verification. So this evening sometime and some of you council members will know that I send
out emails in the middle of the night are going to get an email from me explaining what it is I need. Some of the uh the officials here at this meeting are also going to get an email. Um I expect by the next meeting to have the information I'm asking for. It's not
something that is unusual, something that is not uh necessary. Uh, look, I've worked for county government, still working for them since 1970. I know what you need to have for all the
projects. You have to have a contract. You have to have everything set out. And nobody can give me answers to what's going on. There's something seriously wrong, and I'm very concerned. So, these this email is going to be going out to everyone,
and I expect a uh positive response to it. Um, yeah. Uh, when it comes to stuff like this, I'm a stickler. Uh, I want to make sure that the taxpayers money is being spent well and we're getting every penny's worth. I believe we are, but
until I see the the documents in my hand, I can review them, I don't I don't even know what questions to ask. And we've reached out to a number of legislators for funding for this project. if I'm asked any questions of what's going on, I quite frankly I don't
know what answer to give them. And that's not a good position to be put in. So, for whatever reason, uh I figure if I reach out to everybody, I'm going to get somebody to to find these these documents and get them over to me and answer my questions. Uh it's important.
We're spending taxpayers money. We got to know that uh the money that's being spent is spent well. Uh, I did get a lot of drawings from the our consultant and I thank them for it. Um, but it's for
permit purposes and I'll be quite frank that when this project's supposed to be finished, if they replace all the water manes in South River, if that's the intention, 2029, we're not going to make it. We've got a lot of roads that have
been repaved. And if the 10-year moratorum holds true, that means for 10 years, we can't be excavating those roads. So those mains are going to stay in place until after that moratorum time
is over. Um, so be mindful, be also mindful, the taxpayers are going to have to foot the bill for this in what some way, shape, or form. And I'm getting different reports on that. So that it's going to happen. going to be happen whether I'm running
the show or anybody else is running the show. Who's ever up here? If we're going to get the job done, it's going to cost money. We don't have it. Unfortunately, we're government agency. Government has bottomless pockets. Don't really. No, no government agency does. So, I know that
they're looking to get as much grant money as possible. That takes time. In the meantime, we're going to have bills to pay and the uh people of the town are going to have to start footing the bill for this. Now, I get I saw a figure for
roughly under $1,000 per year for about 30 years. I think it's going to be more. Personally, we got a figure of 124 125 million to do this. I think it's going to be more.
Why? ition. We don't know what we're going to get into when we start excavating. Um, so with that in mind, uh, I hope to get this information to see exactly where we're going. So when somebody askked me a question, I can give them an
intelligent answer instead of mumbling and and just spouting off stuff that I I don't even know is true. Um, and I won't do that. So with that, that's all I've got.
Thank you, Councilman Gina Culus. >> Um, I just wanted to wish everyone a happy Fourth of July. And when you're out there enjoying fireworks, just be safe. And, uh, I know our fire department, I'm sure, is going to
be running on calls left and right. And, you know, hopefully everything works out. And thank the DPW for all they do. and our, you know, chief and the police department and uh OEM, you know, they always they're in the background
working. You guys might not know it, but OEM is always back there and they're helping everybody out and coordinate coordinating everything for the burrow. And uh that's all. Be safe and happy 4th of July. And um congratulations to my
niece. She's getting married this 4th of July. I'll be down at Point Pleasant. Her dad graduated uh South River High School, Peter Gian Copas. I don't know if any of you guys know him, but uh that's all I got to say. >> Thank you, Councilman Demia.
>> Thank you, Mayor. Um next Imperial Music Center concert August 2nd at the Imperial Music Center. Free concerts. They're always a lot of fun. 2 o'clock. Um I want to do a shout out to my priest, Father David Garrettson, who
many of you may know him from St. St. Peter and Paul Church here in town. Um, great person. He officially retired. His last service was actually today. So, um, I know him and his wife Sherry. Wished him good luck. They did a lot in the
town. Everyone knows him pretty much. And, uh, good luck to him and his, uh, family. And welcoming the new priest, Father John Chavevel from California, who was selected to be our new new priest starting um, July 1st. his wife
Sophia and their five children will be living in the rectory once it's updated. Um, good luck to Father David Garrettson. Um, and of course, uh, happy 4th of July to everybody. That's all I have. Mayor, thank you, Councilwoman Dilva.
>> Just want to start off by wishing everybody a happy and safe 4th of July. Please be careful out there if I know everybody's out barbecuing and at friend's house and everybody likes to have a drink or two or some more. Just
be careful, vigilant when you're getting behind the wheel. You should not be driving if you're drinking. Um, anybody hosting these parties, which I've hosted a couple, um, have taken car keys away from everybody at the door and kept them until the end of the night. And, um, I
think we all need to be responsible for each other and watch out for each other. um young drivers out there who think they're invisible need to be vigilant when they're getting behind the wheel of a car and parents, it's our responsibility um to talk to our to our children. In
regards to the ebikes, I'm just glad that it's soon hopefully coming to an end and I don't have to uh correct anybody like I did at the last council meeting outside um which they were almost got hit by a car as the car was turning on over and they were doing
wheelies right there and yeah, the motherly instinct in me took over. Um but other than that, that's it. Um I'm a Christian over at St. Mary's Church. And I just want to also give a shout out to Father Mike who just celebrated 25 years
as a a pastor and he's amazing. So I just wanted to give him a personal shout out. And that is it. Mayor, >> Councilman Trin uh sorry, Councilman Kosinsky. >> Thank you, Mayor. First off, I'd like to thank all of our public service workers,
our police, fire, Robert Wood Johnson, especially our DPW for taking care of us and are keeping our town clean. our fire department for all the calls that the guys make and running around for barbecues and smoke and uh drier fires
or what have you. Uh aside from that, it's getting hot. Make sure if you have an elderly neighborhood in your neighborhood and everything too, make sure they're all right. Make sure because like I said, it's hot. Make sure you stay hydrated. There will be a lot of parties and everything going on. Let's respect our neighbors and
everything like that, too. Remember, at about 10 o'clock or so, let's tone it down a bit. It's warm out there. We're going to have windows open and what have you. And with that, I wish everyone a very happy Independence Day and a safe summer. And watch out for the kids, too. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you, Mayor. Council President. >> Yes. I just have one business type thing here. I wanted to give a little bit of explanation on the water bill. I've had several residents call me that they didn't understand how the water bill works. Um, and I understand because
there's a little bit of of a numbers game. Um, I've been told I speak a little fast when I'm up here sometimes. So, I'm gonna try to slow down for this one because it is a little bit confusing. Your bill will give you a consumption number. My current bill that I'm looking at is 29.
That represents 2900 cubic feet. Okay. The way our system is set up, if you use one through 10 or 0 through 10, the minimum charge is $9646. So if your consumption number is 10 or
less, no matter what it is, 1 2 all the way up to 10, your charge is $9646. My example of my bill was 29. So 29 minus 10 is 19. So the second tier bills you at a rate of $11741
per times that 19. Okay. So you're going to get a bill that has two lines on it most likely. One's going to say minimum and then the other number on there would be the difference which would be the read above 10 times that second tier. I don't think many residents are going to
go into the third tier, but as the ordinance 2025-8 outlines, you would multiply that as well. So, it's a tiered system. So, essentially, no matter any use of water, you're going to pay 96.46 per quarter. Anything above that 10
would go into tier one. If you get above 40, it goes into tier two and three, etc. Um, so obviously if you think there's any issue with your bill, you can reach out to the utilities department or call. But that is the way this is structured. It is a little
confusing because the meter reads as a singledigit number. The ordinance reads as 1,000 cubic feet and in reality the units on the meter are as 100 cubic feet. So from a metric system perspective it all aligns but it's a little difficult to follow and I
understand why there's confusion. I've spoken to several residents and walked them through it and then they understand it and I thought it would be beneficial to explain it that way so maybe it can help people in the future to understand how the bill reads. That being said, Fourth of July 250th
anniversary. The holiday this year is technically Friday and then the 4th falls on Saturday. That means a lot of people are going to be partying Friday and Saturday into a day off on Sunday. We also have the World Cup. So, there's a lot of great things going on as others
have set up here today. Please be responsible. We have a real small town. um 10 or $15 Uber can get you from the veterans field to the little league field and that's about as far as you can get from each other. So be safe. God bless America and just want to give
everybody that kind words of be safe because it's very important this weekend especially. Thank you. Thank you. All right. So we all heard about Main Street. The paving was delayed. Uh hopefully it starts on July 13th or so. Uh milling and paving would take about a
week or so. So, uh, prepare yourself. Uh, you will be notified as it gets closer. Uh, July 1st, as you all know, ebikes are coming into effect with the law. Uh, please be aware of, uh, everybody that's out in the road. They are a little reckless, unfortunately.
Um, this one is going to hit me, uh, pretty good. So, as you all know, uh, there was an incident that happened not too long ago on Cam Avenue. cannot get into detail because it's still under investigation. But the problem the problem is that
everybody goes onto social media and they feel that they're going to start posting all these rumors and all these scenarios and all these premonitions of what exactly happened. And while you're doing that, there's two little kids that are
involved that don't know what really happened. That is absolutely disgusting. You should be all ashamed of yourself when you're going out to social media and posting not knowing that there's a
family behind that and they have no idea what's going on. The best news I could tell you is that the mother is doing very well. That's all I could tell you. But for the future, if there's something that's devastating in our town, and our
town is very small, and I know everybody wants to talk, and they want to get their likes in, and they wanna, hey, look at me, and you're really not doing anything more than just spreading rumors. Think before you speak, you have a family just like you, just like me, and just like you.
Um, mayor's uh patriotic house decorating is coming down to a wind. Uh, there are voting going on for the best choice. go on to the parks and wreck. Uh you could also go on to my page uh cast your vote. There are 17 entries. The houses look remarkable. They look
beautiful. Fireworks, uh barbecues, uh it's extremely hot. Uh I expect I hope hope our fire department is not running looking for houses on fire because I'm I'm already knocking. I'm knocking. But as you all know, uh, as you all know, as
you all know, uh, is the season, uh, fireworks, please be aware. Don't think that shooting off fireworks is going to make you any better than the next person next to your house because people's houses do catch on fire and we don't want that to happen. And as you all also know that besides the fireworks and 4th
of July, there is the World Cup. Um, Brazil won it at the 95th minute today. So, good work. So, uh, be aware and be alert. Um, happy 4th of July and happy birthday, America. Do I have an adjournment? >> Motion to adjourn. Second.
>> Motion by Council President, uh, Desanis, seconded by Councilman Damian. >> All in favor? I >> Thank you.