regular council meeting on Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025 in council chambers, Sparta Township Municipal Building, 65 Main Street, Sparta, New Jersey. The time is 7:02. Uh, all council meetings are now live stream and can be viewed at the
following link, www.youtube.com at spartatwpstreams. Adequate notice of this meeting was provided to the public and press on January 10th, 2025 by delivering to the press and posting on the township website a copy of the notice. Madame clerk, may we have a roll call, please?
>> Councilman Mark Scott >> here. >> Councilman Dean Blumemedi >> here. >> Deputy Mayor Murphy >> here. >> Mayor Clark >> here. Right, let's rise and salute the flag.
Uh but before we do so, I'd like to take a moment of silence um for Adam Garcia. Uh Adam Garcia was a lawyer with a law firm of Howerin and um Sysla. He represented Diamond Chip
Realy. He passed away a couple weeks ago at the young age of 37. Uh he leaves behind a wife and a two-year-old child. He was an excellent lawyer. He was prepared. He was focused. He was forceful and never shrill. And although
we may have been adversaries in law, we are not adversaries in life. So thank you. >> 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. >> Okay, first order of business is approving minutes. Um, may I have a motion to approve the August 12th, 2025
minutes? And Dean, you were not at this uh particular meeting. So, if you would uh sir, please abstain. So, I need a motion to approve the August 12th, 2025 minutes. >> I'll make a motion to approve the
regular me meeting minutes of August 12th, 2025. >> May I have a second, please? And I will second it. Uh, all those in favor say I. >> I. I. Abstain.
>> Abstain. >> Okay, we have two abstensions and two eyes for the August 12th, 2025 meeting minutes. Next up, um, Manager Zeb, could you please give your manager's report?
Good evening, mayor, council members, and Sparta residents. Whether you're joining us here in person or online, it's wonderful to see everyone on the first day of autumn. If you have a moment, please enjoy the fall themed artwork displayed in the
hallway near the public restrooms. The kids mural is courtesy of the art project that was also displayed at the Sussex County Day event. The art project is a local Sparta business offering creative classes and events for all ages. The water main replacement along West
Shore Trail is nearly finished. The system has been pressurized, sanitized, and tested. We are now awaiting final results. Thank you for your patience support throughout this important project. If you enter town hall through the front doors this evening, you likely notice
the ongoing reservation renovations to the town hall plaza. These improvements will enhance public safety and create a more welcoming entrance for all visitors. It's almost time for Halloween fun at White Lake Fields. Haunted Ghost Walks for grades 6 and up. Friday, October
10th, 7 to 9:00 p.m. Our annual trunk or treat for younger children, Saturday, August 11th, 2 to 3:30 p.m. For details, please visit our website and check the RA recreation fall brochure and contact or contact the recreation department.
Congratulations to the Sparta seniors who participated in the Tri County Senior Olympics on September 18th. Sparta placed fourth overall with several participants earning individual medals. Well done. With election season underway, please refer to our website's news flash
section for information on political signs and their location. I'm proud to announce that Sparta Township has once again earned the bronze level certification for sustainable Jersey. This achievement reflects the hard work of our environmental commission members,
township employees, and residents, all dedicated to building a more sustainable community. The certification opens doors to grant funding, expert guidance, and training for local initiatives. Congratulations to everyone involved. This concludes my report. Thank you for
your attention. Chief McCarrick will now present his portion of the report. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, man. Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, council. Good evening everybody. On Wednesday, October 1st from 9 to 11, uh we'll be hosting our annual coffee with a cop at the Sparta Library. It's a
great time for people to come out uh meet with us, discuss any kind of issues that they may see or just get a opportunity to meet their local law enforcement. And again, that's October 1st uh 9 to 11 at the sport library. Um, on October 17th from 6:00 to 9:00, we
are also going to be hosting our annual community event, Hanging with Heroes, at the VFW. This event will give uh the public an opportunity to come out and meet our local first responders from police, fire, EMS, DPW, our local veterans, our partners from the center
of prevention and counseling will also be on hand to provide information about clear, which is community law enforcement, addiction recovery, and operation helping hands. and many other of our local partners will be out there be plenty of food presentations and helpful information and resources available and this will also be an
opportunity for individuals to drop off their unused or expired medication as we have a medication dropbox there so it could be properly disposed of. Additionally, this year um we're asking um for anybody who would like to uh to bring a non-p perishable item to be
donated to the Sparta food pantry. And this event uh is not an event just for children. It's a community event. Um, it's an event for everybody to come out and celebrate how wonderful our township is. And it's an opportunity for everyone to catch up with people that they don't know uh or they do know and to meet
people that they don't know. Um, so I'm hoping uh it will be as successful as it was last year and we're looking forward and hope for good weather. That concludes my report. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Are you cooking Jeff? >> I will be. Yes, we'll be on the grill. >> If you haven't had uh Jeff's chili, I I
highly recommend it. Um it's fantastic. It'll be a good night. >> Okay. Uh, may I have a motion to accept the manager's report? >> So moved. >> May I have a second, please? >> I'll second. >> All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I.
>> I. >> All right. The manager's report is approved. We next are up to our first public comment period. Um, this is limited to items that are not on the agenda. So, take a look at the agenda. If there's anything you want to talk about on the
agenda, now is not the time. That will occur later on in the meeting. Uh, please state your name and address or name and address for the record. And please, each speaker is limited to one comment of no more than five minutes and no yielding of time to another person.
Right. So before I start, I'd like to ask everybody present, everybody here, um, including Spartans, governing body members, and anybody else other employees just to take a moment and rise and take a moment of silence to honor
the following people. Fletcher Merkel, Harper Moeski, Irene Zeritzka, and yes, Charlie Kirk among any other along with any other victims of senseless violence in this country. I'd like to start that right now. Sorry. Right.
Thank you everybody. Appreciate it. For the record, I'm Eric Garrison, a resident of Sparta Township. For those that don't know, Fletcher and Harper, they were fatally shot at the Enunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on August 27th. Ireina was fatally stabbed on a subway train in Charlotte, North Carolina on August
22nd. and Charlie was fatally shot by a sniper at Utah Valley University on September 10th. May they and all other victims of violence in our nation rest in peace and never be forgotten. Mayor Clark, this moment of silence I just held could have easily been held by you on September 9th
council meeting or even just moments ago. The day September 9th, the day before Charlie was killed to honor Fletcher, yeah, Fletcher, Harper, and Ireina's murders, but clearly their deaths were insignificant to you at that time. The deaths of Fletcher and Harper only became important to you when you showed
up for the candle late vigil that grieving Sparta residents, not the township of Sparta held in September 12th at town hall. You showed up not for the purpose of consoling or uniting the upset community, but instead for the purpose of agitating the writing those present who were there to mourn. That's
just plain sick and wrong. Though you claim it hurt you that we had children die at a Catholic mass and not and I quote you a damn single one of you came out for that. I ask why not a damn single one of you honored these precious angels at the
September 9th council meeting or a separate vigil that you could have held but didn't. You owe Spartan an apology for the way you and I'll quote you again reacted emotionally. I call BS on this. and your career as a lawyer that literally involves you being able to argue with people in a fashion where you
regulate your emotions and maintain decorum of the environment through your elected position as a council member. So it should not necessarily involve regular arguing that the maintain should be no different. However, Spart has seen several examples now
with your emotional regulation issues involving you screaming at local residents at council meetings, walking off council meetings when things don't go your way, threatening and harassing me residents, and also degrading others on social media. Respectfully, I need professional help to work on your
emotional regulatory skills. Interestingly, President Trump ordered the US flags lowered between August 27th and August 29th sunset to honor Fletcher and Harper. New Jersey also honored this. Yet Sparta under your watch did not follow either the federal or state government. Where were you? Guess their
deaths really didn't hurt you after all. You lied to the people when you publicly said that you would need to have the consent of the council and hold a special meeting in order to agree to order the flags lowered. This is what you said at the uh the vigil. Sparta Township flag ordinance. You know, you
wrote it. you pass it during your first term in office, your first year in office rather actually says that Sparta Township will follow the US flag code. For purpose of recollection, I refresh you, request you to check ordinances 2-67.1b and 2-67.4
subsection B3. You should be familiar with them. The US flag code that Sparta follows says that the president, who we all know you dislike, may order the flags be lowered. The US flag code also allows the governor, who we know you're friends with and associated with and we know doesn't respect the president, to
also order the flags be lowered. Just because Governor Murphy chose not to honor the presidential order, doesn't mean you had to be his minion. In the town statement that you released, you cited an incorrect statute when pertains to electronic notification that
people can use to sign up for orders to lower the flag at a statewide level. There's nothing contained in this statute or elsewhere that requires the government's governor's approval for that. The only thing that stood in the way was your your own feelings and your own personal agenda. You ran under a campaign promise of no
mega warehouses and to increase transparency and to be a vessel of people. So far, none of that has been achieved. Please just do us a huge favor. resign before you continue to further divide and embarrass this town yourself and drive our beloved town into to which you
have no attachment to into further failure, especially financial failure. If you choose not to leave on your own good and free will, remember elections have consequences. I would look forward to either a recall election or someone else beating you at the polls. The quote, it takes a little more to be a Spartan. Thank you, Sparta, for coming
together. Have a good night, everybody. Thank you. >> Thank you for your comment. Is there any anyone else for public comment? >> Good evening, Sparta representatives. My name is Cat Mateo and I live at three Chapel Hill Court and I'm a firsttime
mom to a 4-month-old baby girl. My daughter is enrolled at the amazing Garden Grove preschool. As you are all acutely aware, the sole road leading to the preschool is dilapidated and there is an ongoing dispute with the preschool's neighbor who is the owner of the road as uh as to the muchneeded
maintenance. I'm happy to report that I have been able to open lines of communication with the school and council for the neighbor and the dialogue surrounding the m making the necessary repairs as soon as possible is promising. I wanted to come here and provide you all with that update, but
more than anything to thank those of you who impressively opened your doors to hear out the concerns that exist about the hazards that the road presents and to discuss possible alternatives to help. Even though the town concluded that at this time it could not intervene, the insight, care, and
concern offered was extremely appreciated. That includes Mayor Clark and Councilman Scott, who diligently responded to my email and directed my concerns to the town gurus who were best equipped to address it. The manager, Jim Zep, who was extremely knowledgeable and
immediately gathered resources to reassess the road. The police chief, McCarrick, uh, Captain Ellig, and the sergeants who met with my husband and insightfully engaged with him about potential solutions. The town attorney, Mr. Dash, who took the time again to review applicable ordinances and analyze
possible alternatives. The fire marshal, Mr. Stall, who took the time to call me and explain the the diligence that he had engaged in behind the scenes to reassess the road and its safety. To those of you who I reached out to but did not have the bandwidth to engage on that issue at that time, I look forward
to engaging with you in the future in constructive dialogue about how to make our town better. Sparta is special and there are many residents like me who are passionate about investing in our local businesses, uplifting our local schools, supporting our boys in blue, and making
Sparta a place where where families thrive. Thank you all for allowing me the opportunity to engage on this issue. I will keep you a breast of developments and will remain engaged until the road is repaired. >> Thank you very much. Thank you. >> Thank you. No claps.
Hi, I'm Dana Galino. I live at 26 Valley View Trail. This town, hell, this world is not always the easiest place to live, especially for the activists and those who work tirelessly towards positive change. But Neil,
I am proud to call to know you, to call you my mentor, my adviser, someone who always picks up the phone, but most importantly to call you my friend. No matter where the chips fall, no matter what they say about you, lean in towards
the people who know and love you. I thank my lucky stars for the day that Neil Clark walked into Sparta. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good evening. My name is Stacy Drato. I live at 25 Benham Way in Sparta. Of course, uh I'm here with some of my
neighbors to speak to you about a concern that we have in our neighborhood of Sussex Mills. Uh we would like to respectfully request that the township of Sparta uh take immediate action to help us to enforce the zoning and regulatory laws that are
currently being violated in our community. Uh for several months, residents of our community have raised concerns regarding ongoing zoning violations at two of the properties, specifically in Sussex Mills at 99 Lambert Drive and 29 Benham Way. 29
Benham Way happens to be my next door neighbor. These properties are located within a residential zone R15, but they are operating at a commercial capacity. Both properties are being used as short-term rental accommodations. They're advertised on Airbnb as well as
VBO. They are functioning as hotels or rooming houses. They are not single family residences. And I do know from my living next door to one that the owner does not live in the home or does not even live in the state. They live in
Florida. Uh, their driveways consistently hold dozens of vehicles packed on the lawn or the driveway, sometimes on the street. This past weekend, there were 20 cars parked on the property next door to my home, as
well as a food truck that came in to fill feed what I was told was a wedding. Um, to our knowledge, there are no licenses for rooming houses or hotels or
bed and breakfasts in our community. And although we are aware that there was an ordinance passed and that that ordinance can't be enforced right now because of an ongoing lawsuit, um, we feel that it's not really so much of a zoning
issue with with that ordinance. Um, we have no issue with homeowners renting out their properties in a manner that's consistent with single family homes, long-term residents, um, who would be living there
more than say 30 days. Um, someone who has been helping us, who wasn't able to attend tonight, uh, has spoken to the fire official, Eric Stall, and he has confirmed that the matter was referred to the zoning department, but we are asking for the township to follow
through with more enforcement. Our neighborhood is zoned for single family residences, and that reason is both quality of life and public safety. And the residents invest heavily in this community. We pay substantial property taxes to live in a safe, regulated,
peaceful neighborhood. We are asking that you could perhaps help us with this issue as far as zoning, um the health department, the number of people that are at these homes using the septic systems, all the
things that go along with the fact that they are running as boarding houses. Um, we've had just recently in our neighborhood the other house on Lambert, which has a lot more activity than my neighbor because they have a swimming pool. All
these things cause more guests to come cause more issues. There was a woman who was drunk and passed out on the side of the road in our neighborhood in her bikini. Um, the police came. When we call the police, they say that
they can help us, but only if it's a noise complaint, and that would have to be after 10 p.m. To be honest, the noise isn't the biggest issue. It's the strangers coming in and out of our neighborhood, and it's often,
especially in the spring and summer, every weekend. I do know that parties are being thrown, weddings are being thrown. There was a party bus that came down the street one day. uh picked up at least 15 people all
dressed in the same dresses, obviously a wedding. Um and although they're not supposed to be advertising anymore, they still are because I'm I'm watching. Um I know that they told the previous zoning officer that it was just family using
their home. I've never seen such a diverse family from every state in the country, but they've all been next door to my home. I have three children, and I like to know who my neighbors are and to keep them safe. And I know the rest of
my uh neighbors feel the same way. So, we're open to any suggestions or any ways that you can help us in uh enforcing. >> Thank you. Um it is very distressing to hear that. Um we put a lot of energy and
time and we heard a lot of stories like yours and that was uh the purpose behind the short-term rental ordinance. And um you know I think as probably was explained to you, it's under litigation. There's certain reasons why enforcement has to be pulled back at the moment. Um,
but I will say that I think we should look to alternatives besides that ordinance um to alleviate uh what you're saying because I know it's made, you know, you moved in that neighborhood as a residential single family, >> right? >> And you came to expect that and your
neighbors came to expect that and that's not what you're enjoying right now. And I'm um it's upsetting to hear that. Um, so I will I will tell you um we will look to ways of of trying to alleviate this that may be outside uh the
short-term rental ordinance um given that it's under litigation. But I will um you know pledge to you that we will look into that. I mean there's we have good lawyers, we have uh good enforcement and we have excellent police force. So again I'm I'm very sorry that
that has happened to your neighborhood. I know that's not what you want and um you know I we we'll pledge to look into that and try to come up with an alternative. >> Thank you. I I think something that's none of us are against our neighbors
doing it the right way. If they want to come in front of the board and ask for a zoning variance to run a boarding house or a hotel or a bed and breakfast, that of course is their right. Um but they have not done that. They're just doing what they feel as if they want to do uh
you know to to make money. Obviously, I've noticed that. >> Understood. I'm I don't mean to cut you off because we have a a packed house. I want to move, you know, so other uh your citizens can have an opportunity, but Absolutely. And feel free to communicate with me and other council members about
this issue. Um, our emails are on the the Sparta Township website and you can outline, you know, more specifically um, your issues with with this uh, particular property. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Sure.
>> Thank you, >> Mr. Zep and and Mr. Dash, could you explain why we can't enforce our laws while we're under litigation? Well, it's not as simple as not enforcing the laws as well uh pending
litigation. The the matter is driven by a number of circumstances, not all of which um may be appropriate for this forum. But in short, um because there is an appeal pending to the appelllet
division and enforcement of that uh ordinance deprivives a property owner of certain rights. If the appella court were to reverse the lower court on that ordinance, those rights, those property
rights could arguably be trampled upon. Um but there as in many areas of law there is not a black and white answer to why we cannot enforce. Um it's not entirely accurate to say that we are not enforcing. Um
we recognize and appreciate the concern of the residents. In fact, that was the driving factor behind their short-term rental ordinance. The township takes its enforcement seriously. Um, again, appreciate that the issues are
complicated and the township is uh almost daily looking into how we can address the concern raised by the resident. >> I'll defer to my attorney. He covered it pretty well. We are we are very well aware of the situation up at Sussex
Mills and we have been addressing it to the extent that I'm given guidance to address. All right. Um, if you want to come to public comment and then um or even you can send an email. So um, anyone else for public
comment? Okay. >> Yeah, that's Brick Northshore. Do you have an update on the process for appointing people to planning and zoning? >> Do you have any other I I can answer that, but I uh any other comments? I
don't take up your time. I I'd be good with a yes or a no as long as it doesn't need most of my five minutes because I do have a follow-up question depending on your answer. >> Uh we do have a process in place that we suggested we're trying to like I said we want to put it as an agenda item for the
people who have been uh put their hat in the ring for those appointments. So, for those of us that have applied and before your suggestion at the last meeting, are we staying in limbo or is it going to be for future applicants or is it a
retroactive thing depending on whatever date you guys determine? Because I applied quite a while ago. There was a quorum, a majority vote said yes, things happened. I still have no idea where I stand with being appointed to the zoning
board. So, I'd really like to know what the steps are. Do I reapply? Am I coming in for an interview? Like, what's going on? I don't think it's right that people who are committed to volunteering their time, whether it's as you put on this
side where they're of the dis where they're better off or up there where you guys are. Either way, I don't think that it's right that people are left in limbo for the better part of a month or two. So, I'd really like to know where we are. That's the only question I have right now. I'm assuming I'll have a comment period. We'll have the comment
period at the end as well. >> Okay, I understand, Beth. Thank you very much. I think it's a travesty that we can't fill the fifth the fifth spot on this council and we can't fill the spots on the zoning board. >> And there's also planning as well because there's I counted the other
night there were eight of you, not nine. Correct. The And that eight includes >> the alternate. >> Correct. And then I know that there are spots coming up at the end. There are positions or people coming off the board at the end of this year and going I need to be we have to fill them for next
year. I don't want to be in a position where we have four people instead of five on council. We have eight instead of nine or 10 on planning and we're still short on planning at least one possibly two depending on um what people
on zoning have determined and what they're if they're able to fulfill the requirement. I just think that it's a disservice to the town and to the people that want to do what's right up there or out here. It's really not right and it reflects poorly on the town.
>> Thank you, Beth. Marjorie and I have repeatedly asked to move this process along and we've been stymied. Thank you. I think where we have uh where the roadblock is is that there's a disagreement over the process. Um I
think that there's two council members that say that we want to do it by putting it on the agenda and that the applicants come for an interview. Uh so far we've not been able to reach agreement as to the process. So that's where we are. Um
so that's that's where the roadblock is. Um, anyone else for public comment? >> Jenny Derek's tap into Sparta. I have a couple of questions. Um, the first two relate to funding for the planning board, which is the purview of this
body. Uh are you considering for the master plan uh committee to revisit the ordinance the bond ordinance that would fund that is the preferable means to fund a master plan review. It gives the um taxpayers
some relief because it spreads the cost of the master plan committee's expenses over five years. That was originally brought up when the process was first brought to the council. um that was voted down but things have changed since then. Is there consideration for
revisiting that? That's my first question. Second, regarding planning board also there was uh discussion at the planning board about um having the professionals charge their time in a meeting in a
hearing to the escrow accounts of the applicant. One of the professionals the planner said that's what she does. Uh the engineer Dave Simmons said that he does that in every other town but not Sparta. And um Mr. Porro was new to the
process and just was doing it as he was told. So that's my second question. And uh third also related to planning board for bed and breakfast. I don't know if you're aware, but our ordinance for bread and breakfast
specifies that um for a facility to be considered a bed and breakfast, they have to meet the standards of the New Jersey Bed and Breakfast Association. There is no such association.
We have a bed and breakfast in town. There is no New Jersey bed and breakfast association. There isn't really even a national association. I've spoken with other people who have bed and breakfast in other towns. I've spoke with other
town planning uh offices that have bed and breakfast in their town and they have a different way of handling it. But I just wanted to bring to your attention um especially since we are talking about uh difficulties with the short-term
rentals that as this may be an option for people with those types of facilities, we don't have an ordinance for all intents and purposes. So that's it for me for tonight. >> Thank you. as to the first issue that has not been brought up uh about the
bond ordinance, but it's a good point um about funding the planning board. So, we'll um I'll bring that back to discussion uh for council. As to the second issue, um I think it's more like a CFO funding issue that and planning board. So, I'm I'm not versed enough to,
you know, answer that one. Um and as to your third one, uh I believe there is a bed and breakfast. There's a statute that governs it statewide if I'm not mistaken. Um, but I think, you know, we'd have to look into that. Um, >> I couldn't find it in the MLUL, but I'm not an attorney, so
>> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, >> Mr. Dash. Can you help us on that? Do you know about that? >> Yes. Um, Jenny, Mr. Eric is is correct that the township ordinance uh needs to
be updated to reflect the antiquated reference to the bed and breakfast association and the township should take that under advisement. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else for public comment on items
not on the agenda? >> Joanne Scy New Jersey. um just like to say that I feel bad for anyone that's harassed. I saw your letter um on the Sparta uh site and I do not condone that. But I would like to say that for
the past three years um I witnessed harassment to people um with nasty comments, falsehoods, bullying on social media, especially on the SRD Facebook page. You did nothing. I've seen bullying, heckling from the
gallery while you were mayor and you did nothing against Christine Quinn and um Josh Herzburg. Um I just think it's a double standard. It's hypocrisy that um all of a sudden you're asking for amenity but you did nothing for asking
for amenity from anyone else um that was harassed. Um just want to let you know I donated twice to SRD when I support a different slate that opposed no warehouse. I was doxed by an SRD administrator and immediately blocked.
They did not give me a chance to respond. Another SRD member even gave out the area in which I live. Um, this is scary that fellow Spartans did this. Um, I had a serious reason for changing my Facebook from my full name to my
nickname. I had a um someone a former coworker that was terminated due to violently attacking a supervisor. I was a witness. Um, all of a sudden I got contacted by him. I immediately locked down my Facebook, changed my Facebook name. I did change uh did not change my
profile picture so people in town would know who I am. Um, I did message you to please ask the SRD administrator to please stop it. You did nothing. So, where's a manity there? My life was threatened. Um, flash forward to your
first year. Uh, I went through with that already. Um, then flash forward to 2025 reorg meeting when you completely changed everything. It was a forbodon of what was to become. Dan was very adamant that he would not engage in running a meeting that he felt was not legal
because the council did not have an attorney present since you removed our longtime attorney Tom Ryan. That meeting started with no seated attorney. Dean also objected to Mr. Ryan being released and being replaced by non dash. Dan abstained and Dean voted no to non's
nomination. What came next were the other attorneys and planner replaced under the objections of Dean and Dan. Then came the resolution AA which stated that it afforded opportunity not obligation to provide consent respect to any decision by our town manager for
grant application construction permitting related to capital projects. Dean stated at red tape and delays. Dan stated that the council should be working on policy, not administration, that the council
is a policy board, not administrative board. The town manager stated that it will slow things down. Jim Zep stated, town manager stated he was surprised by the resolution. He also stated that he takes pride in what he delivers to the council. He already delivers a weekly report to the council. Jim has always
done an astounding job as a DPW head and continues to do an outstanding job as our town manager and I thank you. This is the first time I know of that mayor espart wanted to insert himself in everyday management of our town business. Two meetings after the reorg
meeting DM wanted to be put on record that he was very uncomfortable with what was being discussed at executive board meeting that he had to leave the room. That is very unsettling, very upsetting as a Spartan citizen and I wonder what was going on at that meeting again your
involvement. A few months later, Dan turned in his resignation. He was an honorable man and chose to leave with integrity intact and not wanting to go down on a sinking ship. It's sad Dan had no other choice. And then you can continue to insert
yourself in the planning board. Um you went to a planning board meeting trying to represent the town manager. You then went on to put a target on the backs of Joan Fur Ferman, Mike Sylvester, and Rob Blekeley. Um, only because they were collecting signatures against the
cannabis dispensaries. Um, Rob Bleley, you removed because he was they are appointee. Mike Sylvester was removed for by a discrepancy um that Dean and Dan argued against. Joan Ferman refused to uh resign when
you asked. Um and I'm worried that no one will have no one will be willing to volunteer on boards and committees because of fear of your wrath. A real leader does not lead by intimidation. Um I respectfully ask that you please resign for the benefit of the town since
you have been very divisive and are leading a dysfunctional council. I have very um bad allergies. You've also been unable to fill a vacancy on the council since April. If you won't resign, I would ask the other council members to censure you and remove you as mayor.
Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Any other public comment? Hi, my name is William Stern. I live at 10 Carpenter Place. You can hear me? >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, I just wanted to reinforce
some of the things that Stacy Deprad had said earlier. Mr. Zep. I think one of the most importantly, we're not approaching the short-term rental uh
as being the sole avenue. Uh Mr. dash. I think you have the tools through zoning codes, zoning rules, as well as your fire ordinances that are in place and in place not just townwide,
but in place through the state. So, these rules, there are certain things that have to be part of the structure of the building, and they're not. These these homes were
all built as residential. They don't have the uh safety requirements that they need to have. The other thing that was stated earlier was um
that we have the police force to utilize when there's a problem. And I just want to let you know that other than sound violations at night, these gentlemen have their hands tied. There's nothing they can do. Uh they can't come out
there uh and um write anybody a a violation because they don't have exit signs by their exits. they don't have a sprinkler system in their building to
adequately uh handle safety violations. Um so we want to approach it not from your short-term uh ordinance but from existing regulations that are in place
right now and you guys have the tools to use but you have to do so with force. These people bought these properties as investments. They're not going to be happy about it. They're going to fight you and they're going to probably
continue until you allow these people to go in there and control it and give them some force, some some way, some method to keep it as a
residential situation. Um, I just wanted to reinforce that. But for us to call the police department is useless other than making noise at night. There's nothing they can do right now and traffic. Maybe they can go in
there and they'll see inadequate uh egress because the place is completely blocked up, but that's that's minor. So, you have the tools. Now, I'm asking you to use them.
>> Hey, thank you. >> Yeah, you're welcome. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else for public comment for items not on the agenda? >> I just have a quick question. My name is Christina Corinus. It's actually for Mark and Margie. When uh Neil released
the statement about the flag ordinance and he said that he needed the authority of an emergency meeting and he had never called an emergency meeting, what's the difference between the meeting that was called on September 9th versus an like an emergency meeting that you would have called for the flag? And just on a
personal level or a professional level, where did you guys stand with it? And did he speak on your behalf, too? >> Sure. Um that morning I was uh informed that the I was out of state uh on Saturday morning. I don't remember what I don't remember the date number date.
Um but I was out of town uh out of state. I was informed that the flag had not been lowered and I emailed the township manager uh Mr. Dash and Mr. Clark that Mark and
Margie would like us to obey the president's order. And so, uh, not only did I put that on Facebook, I also sent an email to, as I
said, these three people. Um, >> so then, how does the >> who was the statement from then? Because from my understanding, the statement that was sent out from the township, there was like a little red dot notice. It appeared to me that it came from all of you guys. >> No, that's Let's talk about that. Okay,
that's that's uh >> I uh I also excuse a second, but I had reached out to see if we could have a man a an executive >> emergency meeting and I was told no. >> Um >> but but why? Like I that's what I'm not >> I don't know why we couldn't
>> to be honest. I don't know why. >> But I understand that you don't know and you don't know. But you then who knows? >> I know. >> Let me explain how that >> I can answer or not. >> I I think I have the floor. I think I have the floor. Um, >> I think so.
>> Yeah. All right. >> To answer your question, >> Mayor Clark intentionally leaves town council members out of many of his unilateral decisions. The recent statement that appeared on the official town website was not, I repeat, not approved by the town council. In fact,
Councilwoman Murphy and I had only received it 5 minutes before it was published, and we were in the process of raising objections with Mr. Dash on the phone to its content when it somehow appeared online.
>> H like how is that just acceptable? Like, who do we hold accountable? Like, I know that if if I could do something to like hold someone account accountable, I would, but I'm I'm not an elected official. We put you guys here because we wanted you to represent us. And it just feels like almost like he's
going rogue. Like there's just no sense of accountability. There's no formality. We don't know what's going on. In one sense, we get a statement that he's never called an emergency meeting. But if you look on Tap into, he had one on September 9th. So, I understand that if we can't trust all of our elected
officials, we'd like to at least trust some of them, you know, and it feels like just from a taxpayers point of view, like we have no one representing us. No one tells us the truth, like you asked the question like what's the procedure? And he said, "We do have a procedure." And then when then after the
conversation kept going, he's like, "Well, we don't know the procedure." So, who knows what's going on? Like, it's like who's running the town? Like, nobody knows. Well, the town manager runs the town. Mr. Clark does not run the town.
>> He thinks he does, but of very often um if I may, >> I I have no further comment. >> Add that that the five Yes. Miss Manager Zep runs the town and the five people that should be up here, nobody has with
our former Faulner government. It's a nonpartisan and no one has authority over each other. We all have the same vote. So, uh it is not a man a mayor strong form of government,
but I uh yes, I was approached that morning and I was in favor of lowering the flag and was told that we couldn't have an emergency meeting. So, mayor, if you could, you said you have an answer.
>> Sure. Um, and I'll defer also to our council. Um, our statement, am I right, uh, attorney Dash, uh, is respect to the legal constraints that the Sparta Township has. Is that right? >> Yes, that's correct. As a general
matter, uh, well, first, I'm not going to visiate the privilege of the attorney client privilege. I'd ask council to respect communications that were had with me. Um, and secondly, matters of governance
and policy and legislation are the domain of the council. Matters of operation are the domain generally of the the township manager. Um, so the statement was in connection with authority from
the township matter. every decision uh not necessarily implicates the authority of the council >> and does council get to decide what the law is? >> No. In in in its legislative capacity,
it can legislate as a body, but it doesn't have the decision to make operational choices with respect to the law. So where a township is attempting to follow the law, that's that's a matter of the township manager and the uh administ and the attorney. Is that
right? >> Correct. >> Okay. And so would that explain why um that the statement council would not have had uh authority to decide what law it should follow. Is that right? >> Correct. >> Mr. Clark, I don't mean to interrupt
you, but which law are you referring to? >> This is not a back and forth. You've had your five minutes and I'll answer your question yourself. >> I didn't get the five minutes and I just want to know which law are you referring to? And also Mr. Zap, are you taking responsibility for the decision not to lower the flag? Because it sounds like Mr. Clark said that it was your
decision. >> I'm not taking responsibility for that. I f I follow a lot of guidance uh uh on it and I put the statement together because we were hearing a lot of confusion and misinformation out there and felt it would be best if we put a
statement out on the website and we did that and it was in conjunction also with the mayor Clark's statement. Um that statement was you know heavily guided by counsel which I refer to often uh in situations like this because I just
don't have the knowledge of of that and that's what I follow on a lot of situations that I don't have knowledge of. I'll I'll have to seek guidance. >> Right. Thank you. And then just to clarify which law are we referring to when you said the law thing? I just want to make sure I >> refer you to the statement. So I mean
the statement's been up uh for you know for a while now. So, you know, the law that cited in there is what you should refer to. Um, as to your second point about, you know, there was an emergency meeting. Um, I think you're misunderstanding the difference between
an executive session which has, you know, there's certain legal criteria uh in order to call an emergency executive session. So that meeting of September 9th um without divulging uh what it was, it had to deal with an emergent exigent
legal issue that had arisen um and that was also scheduled you know the same day as the council meeting. So we just did it earlier. So this the lowering of the flag um does not meet the criteria for an emergency executive session meeting. So that's why it it doesn't fall under
that. So that example you use just really doesn't apply. >> Okay. And just to clarify, you won't answer my question which law it is. You're going to tell me to go look on this statement, right? You tell people to come out and talk to you and ask questions here, but you're going to redirect. >> The purpose of issuing a statement is exactly that. I mean, it's that the
statement is what it is and that's our state and that's our statement. >> That's our statement, right? >> That's that's the statement. >> That wasn't our statement. It was that's your statement. >> Mr. Clark's statement. I had I was not consulted on whatsoever. Neither was uh Deputy Mayor Murphy. We we knew nothing
of it. Therefore, time and time again in that memo, it talks about the township. The township. And I kept saying, "Who is the township, right?" And uh I thought I was part of the township sitting up here. We both thought we were part of the township. >> Well, Councilman Scott may have a
misunderstanding of his role uh and where his role stops and where the township attorney and the township manager. Uh it is not our authority to decide what the law is or announce what the law is. We don't get a vote on that because you could imagine the negative consequences that would follow if
council could just vote on what the law is, right? And decide for itself whether it's going to follow it or not, right? We follow the rules and the statutes as interpreted by our attorney and we take that advice. I didn't write the statement of Township of Sparta. I didn't have I didn't even look at it.
What I wrote is what I wrote. >> So, who wrote it? Who wrote the statement? That was we told you. >> You didn't even put eyes on it. You only said that you >> the township attorney and the township manager. They they answered that. I had
no role in writing that. I wrote my statement and my statement, as I said, does not uh does not apply to any other council member. It doesn't apply to Sparta Township. Anyone else for further public comment? Hello, Leanne Pitzer. Um,
this is for Mark and Margie. Actually, um, it would appear as though when you did your reorganization meeting that you supported Neil for mayor at that time. It appears now that you're not very much
in support of him. Um, I want to ask if you feel this strongly, why are you not asking him to step down as mayor, demand his resignation? And in addition, I would like to know
what your opinions are with the fiscal position of our township at this moment. Our surplus is next to nothing. Neil and company came in with millions of dollars in surplus. Now there is next
to nothing, but we are film ready. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else for public? >> I'll be glad to answer that. Um, yes, we did uh uh back and and and vote
for Mr. Clark. uh at the reorganization meeting. Unfortunately, the entire town has been suffering since the cannabis issue was decided by Mr. Clark, Mr. Blummedi, and Mr. Cherello
when they decided that they were going to approve marijuana stores in this town dispensaries. And then I along with 25 other people went out and got 157
signatures opposing the marijuana stores. Since that since then the the wrath has been unstoppable.
I've tried we've tried to to play above the above board. Margie and I have discussed this mult many many times. Um we want to do the right thing. We want to play the right way and as soon as we do that it's it's seen it's
seen by some as weakness and therefore we are assaulted and and uh not assaulted but let's say uh dressed down at uh with emails at 2:38 a.m.
telling us about what fools we are. So this is the way it's running right now. And it would be nice that we could get a fifth person in there. So, let's remember that that elections have consequences and we're eight weeks away thereabouts
and you the voters get to decide which way this town goes. Thank you. >> Part of my question. >> Sure. Can you can you remind me what that was? >> Um, I asked why you are not demanding his resignation. Well, first of all, if
if I demanded his resignation, there would be a two- two vote and it would fail. All right? I I I I I've been rather divisive here and I've I've been rather negative here, but I want to read a statement here because I think we really
need to turn this turn this around. We are proud to live in Sparta, proud to be Spartans. When I say we, I'm talking about myself and Deputy Mayor Murphy. We are honored to have been elected by a wide margin to represent our wonderful community. There are many things that
unify us and should we should highlight them. Many people move to Sparta to raise their families. We have good schools, a robust a robust recreation department, many beautiful lakes and parks, active scouting programs, numerous churches and houses of worship
and many organizations that support our families. We ran on a platform of maintaining the re rural culture of our town, keeping Sparta beautiful. Sparta was recently thrust into the national spotlight in a disappointing way. And while we were not consulted and do not
condone what went on, we know Sparta is more than that. Sparta is more than one unfortunate decision. While Mark and Margie were not consulted on that decision and many others and many others that have resulted in
negative backlash ever since the cannabis issue came to a head. But we've been elected to represent all of Sparta to do the best that we can for Sparta to help maintain the Sparta we moved here for and make it
even better. We appreciate your input and comments. We ask that you do so in a way that is worthy of our wonderful community and in a way that promotes making Sparta even better. If you don't want marijuana dispensaries in this town, you have to get out and
vote. Uh November 7th, right? Uh okay. So, November 7th, get out and vote. >> No, >> November 4th. >> Okay. November 4th. All right. See, I
would have missed it. Thanks a lot. All right. Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Liam. >> Okay. I'll simply say that I think that uh council members, unlike uh members of the public, uh try to abide by Robert's
rules. Uh one of them is that you don't ascribe motives to a board member or a fellow council member. And what you just heard was an ascribing of motive. That each action that they may talk about is based on some motive, based on uh
support or non-support of cannabis. That's to ascribe a motive uh to a fellow council member. Now, you as a public are free to do that, but I would hope that our council members uh could follow some type of decorum um and abide by that. So, anyone else for public
comment? I I agree with following a modem of decorum. >> I know you may not have seen that, Mr. Clark, but I was trying to lower the temperature with my statement. If you'd like me to bring it up, I can do that, too. I have another statement I'll be glad to read. Thank you.
>> Hi, my name is Annie Angeluchi. You brought up a good point. Uh Mark, you said go out and vote on November 4th or 7th. Um, but the thing is, isn't it worded that it doesn't really matter if I vote yes and you vote no because at
the end of the day, it's going to be the council that really makes the decision, >> right? It will be the it will be. >> So, why I mean, why are I mean, listen, I think everything should go out and vote because I think voting is very important, but does it really matter if
we vote yes or no? Because is it going to just end up just like a vote like it was before and everybody got these signatures because nobody, you know, not nobody obviously some people on the council want it and some people didn't. So we just got ended up, you know, in the December meeting saying, "Oh, well, three of us wanted
it, two of us don't or whatever the, you know, the whole my personal opinion is the fact that these Sparta residents were not made aware. We represent all of you and that is the most important thing
is I am here born and raised in this town. My family's been here a very long time and we do not want to see it changed to the degree that it shouldn't be. The reason we all moved here and we want you to have a vote and then yes we
will decide but the show of the public is extremely important. It is to me. >> So, are you saying that if 70% of Sparta residents voted no, it's going to be no?
>> I am. >> You should ask Mr. Clark that. >> Hoping to God yet. That is the answer. >> I don't deal in hypothetical. >> I'm sorry. >> I said we're not going to deal in hypotheticals. Well, >> the reason I'm asking this question is
>> I think you should vote and I think that you know that the vote is something that >> so I guess the question is it yes or no vote. >> May I finish? >> Sure. >> Okay. Um so I think and I this idea that no one was aware of it. We there was a a
hearing there was an introduction. No one aware of the cannabis is um kind of dumbfounded by that statement. Um, but as far as what are we going to do if however the vote comes out, that is a factor that we have to
consider. That's my answer because there are legalities that we have to consider. There's a lot that goes into that. So, we can't just give you a black and white. I know you really want a black and white. I get that. It It's very simple to think that way and I understand that and I I wish things in
governing were that easy. It's not that easy. And all I can tell you is that however the vote comes out, yay or nay, that's something this council has to consider, right? And so if it, you know, that's that's the best I can give you. Um I can't give you if it comes out this
we're definitely going to do whatever. I mean it could come out and >> so why should we why should we vote? >> Huh? >> Why should we vote for that? because I because I just told you that it's a factor that goes into our consideration and if you want to have an influence on
that uh on on the weight of that factor you must vote right so it's it's an important factor that we consider so I I encourage everyone to do that >> okay thank you >> Sure >> thank you >> anyone else for public comment on items not on the agenda
>> if the vote does come out that Spartans are against marijuana stores in the center of town. Mark and Margie will do the best that we can to honor what this what the residents want. Um
I know one of the one of the candidates is vehemently against the marijuana stores and hopefully the other one is too. Look forward to working with whoever it is. Thank you. >> Okay, anyone else for public comment?
Otherwise, we do have some uh other business to attend to, including introductions of ordinances and hearings on ordinances. Okay. All right. Seeing no further public comment, um we are now up to
expenditures. Deputy Mayor Murphy, would you please read the expenditures for September 23rd, 2025? The expenditures for September 23rd, 2025 are 6,865,858920.
>> Okay. May I have a motion to approve the expenditures for September 23rd, 2025? >> So moved. >> May I have a second, please? >> I will second. >> All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. >> I.
Okay. And the expenditures for September 23rd, 2025 have been approved. Uh we are now up to the introduction of an ordinance. Um madame clerk, could you please read the title of ordinance 2516?
>> An ordinance of the township of Sparta amending the salary ordinance for non-union and union employees. >> And may I have a motion to introduce ordinance 2516? >> So moved. Uh may I have a second please? I >> have a second.
>> Uh all those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. So ordinance 2516 will has been introduced. Uh there will be a hearing two weeks hence from today. Um at which point if you have questions about the ordinance, what it's about um we can
take those then. But normally on the introduction of ordinances, we don't do that. Um actually we needed a roll call. I apologize. Thank you for looking at me like I don't know what I'm doing, which sorry about that. Um, >> so we need a roll call on ordinance
2516. >> Councilman Scott, >> yes. >> Councilman Bli, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Murphy, >> yes. >> Mayor Clark, >> yes. So, ordinance 2516 has been introduced. Madam, uh, now we're at a hearing um of
an ordinance. Uh, this is the one that we did two weeks ago. Uh, madame clerk, could you read the title of ordinance 2515? >> An ordinance of the township of Sparta, Sussex County, New Jersey, amending portions of chapter 16 of the township code entitled Fire Protection and
Prevention. >> Okay. Uh, we're now anyone having public comment on ordinance 2515? Okay. See. Okay. >> Jenny Derek's tap to spart. Is there any delta any change from this ordinance to
the prior one that it is supplanting? >> Yes, there is. >> And can you tell us what the changes are? >> It's modifying to to match with Hardistan, who is now our new enforcement agency for fire prevention. >> Okay. So, um, it there's not a lot of
change in the ordinance, but it it's necessary to affectuate the the shared service that we now have with Hardist performing the fire prevention services as opposed to way we were doing it before. >> So, it's primarily the code enforcement
that the fire department is uh required to uphold. >> Yes. >> Okay. And our fire department has signed off on it. They have though hardest is the primary on this. Sure. All right. And and this is the fire prevention services. They they do work with the
fire department on some level, but on the fire prevention services, it's the primary is hardest in right now. And you you heard two examples of Eric Stall reaching out to residents and and performing those duties. And I'm always happy to hear that. Uh he's he's very responsive and so far the the
relationship has worked out very well. >> Thank you. Okay. Any other public comment on 2515? Okay. I'll take it back to council for any discussion. Council have any discussion? Okay. >> No.
>> Yes. Um, now would Hardy um be able to enforce the bed and breakfast rule if there's 30 people in a house? I mean, I I I have to believe that that's against code.
Would Would Hardin do that or or do we just ignore Will they ignore it, too? >> Well, one now. Anything related to the fire code >> will be referred to Hardist. All right. >> Okay. So, Hardist would be the enforcer.
>> They would. Oh, if there is 30 people in a home and it's overloaded, then >> I can't answer that. That that that is up to them. They are the lead agency. They're the trained professionals. They would receive our complaint or issue of them to look into and then we would
abide by their recommendation. Um, this gets applied all the time. >> Should residents call Sparta 911 or should residents call Hardyston 911? residents should go on the Sparta web page. You can look up fire prevention
services and now you'll see links to Hardistan. All right. Uh for all their concerns related to fire prevention, whether it's food truck inspections or smoke detector uh uh uh permits. Uh they're closing on a house. Uh it now goes to Hardon and the information is on
our town website. Will Hardston be getting all the the inspection revenue that when a Sparta house change trades typically there's a uh smoke detector inspection? >> Yes, they would. >> And a fee and they get the fee.
>> Yes, they do. >> Is this Okay. And you're saying this is and and as I recall, I remember you said this was a cost savings net net. >> Well, it is because we don't have a lead agency. uh we don't have a an employee
who's getting paid to do what Harrison's getting paid to do now for it, right? Um that individual had decided that he was no longer going to perform those services for us. He gave me notice and I was fortunate enough to have fine Hardest who was willing to to pick it up
for us and we didn't have a real uh delay in in in function. >> Is that person still employed by the township? >> He is. He he he he has multiple positions, hence the reason that he dropped this one.
>> I'm happy to discuss it outside. >> Okay, folks. That's >> Yeah, this is an example of an inner service agreement. Um and that if you've ever gone to a League of Municipalities uh conference or um anyone speak from
DCA which um they're very big on trying to find cost savings uh between township so we don't duplicate effort. So that this is an example of that um where we're Hardistan has a very robust um
fire prevention team and so there was you know once our um fire department official said they were no going to do that particular part of the job um this was a a ripe candidate for an interervice agreement. Is that basically correct?
>> That's correct. >> Okay. Any other council member uh want discussion or comment on 2515? Okay. Uh may I have a motion to adopt ordinance 2515? >> So moved.
>> May I have a second, please? >> I'll second. >> Uh Madame Clerk, may we have a roll call? >> Councilman Scott? >> Yes. >> Councilman Blumemedi? >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Murphy? >> Yes. >> Mayor Clark?
>> Yes. So, ordinance 25:15 has been adopted. Uh, we are now up to our second public comment period. However, this is limited to the resolutions. So, uh, before you get up to the microphone, take a look at the resolutions. If you
want to make a public comment on those, please do so. Again, abide by the five minute time period and please don't yield your time to another person. So, do we have any member of the public wishing to be heard on the resolutions? Jenny Derk happened to Sparta on 96. Is
there any change to the nine to that resolution since it was rejected at the last council meeting? >> No. Thank you. >> I don't believe there is. That's it. >> Okay. So, um if it's all right, the the
first four are ones that we've routinely do. So I would make a motion to approve resolutions 91, 92, 93, and 94. So the motion is uh the approval of resolutions 91 through 94.
>> Yes. I'll make an motion to approve resolutions 91 through 94. >> Uh may I have a second, please? All right. I will second it uh for resolutions 91 through 94. Um all those in favor say I.
>> I. >> I. >> Resolutions 91, 92, 93, and 94 have been approved. Um may I have a motion to approve resolution 95, which is a resolution of the township of Sparta to authorize the use of a national contract for the water and sewer utility
department. So may I have a motion to approve resolution 95? I'll make a motion to approve resolution 95. Uh >> may I have a second, please? >> Second. >> Okay. And before we vote, uh just one question. Um Manager Zep, could you just
explain the purpose of this resolution for the public, please? >> Right. This is a a common practice that we do with uh purchasing. Um we're using a national contract which uh saves us from going out to bid uh when you have a costly product like this. uh 23,000
exceeds the uh pay-to-play threshold of 17,500. So when we do that, we like to formalize it in the form of a resolution uh to show the public that we're abiding by public contract law. And um these are uh specialized parts for uh the water uh
pumps out at Germany Flats. >> Thank you. Okay. Any other questions regarding uh 95? If not, we'll go to vote. Right. All those in favor of resolution 95 say I. >> I. >> I.
>> I. >> All right. Resolution 95 has been approved. Next. May I have a motion to approve resolution 96, which is a resolution for the Township of Sparta in support of proposed state of New Jersey legislation S3545
A4696 Climate Super Fund Act. So, I need a motion to approve resolution 96. I'll make a motion to approve resolution 96. >> Uh, may I have a second, please? >> Okay, I will second. Okay, thank you,
Dean. Um, back to council. We we discussed this at the at the last um meeting. I understand that. Have uh Councilman Scott and and Councilman Murphy, have your questions um been answered so that you feel that you have
the ability to vote on resolution 96 at this time? >> Correct. >> Okay. All right. All those in favor of resolution 96 say I. >> I. >> I. >> I. >> I didn't hear Councilman Scott. Did you?
>> No. >> Okay. So we have uh three to one. Uh the resolution has passed. All right. We are now up to the council liaison updates and I will start to my
far left. Uh with regards to the planning board, we recently had a uh hearing on on uh the smoke shop and that has will be rolled to the the smoke shop and the and
the restaurant directly across from the shopite. Um and that has been carried till next meeting. So if you're interested in that, please show up. Um in addition we also had discussion of a a new warehouse I believe at 1012 Aaron
Way and uh that has been carried also uh to next meeting. Um I went to the Chamber of Commerce meeting last week just tremendous pres presentations by many of the local companies that
that work and operate here. And I can only you know encourage everyone to to purchase purchase and uh utilize >> local >> shop local. There you go. That's a good way. >> All right. Uh on Saturday or uh Saturday
or Sunday, I had the opportunity to go uh uh to the swearing in of three new Eagle Scouts here in Sparta. Um their names I can release uh next week. Um, but it was uh a great moment to see
three excellent scouts receive the highest honor in scouting. That's it. Thank you. >> Okay. Uh, manager Zep gave the on the senior committee. We did take fourth
place. It was a terrific day. So any senior citizens next year I want you to show up and I want more teams to combat in the county and this was a tri county competition and you only have to be 60. Just saying there was some really it was
tremendous tremendous day and the parks and recck uh did a wonderful job. They really did and everybody had a great time. was very well organized and uh some stiff competition but we did excel but we came in fourth so that's great to
know. Um the Rev 250, nothing has changed since last meeting. We are looking at doing a uh instead of doing a Washington crosses the Delaware honoring the uh birth of the Navy and
doing a possible boat parade around Lake Mohawk for Navy veterans who >> I thought I was going to be Washington. >> Sorry. Sorry. Plus, we have to maybe lowering the lake. Well, you can be Washington. Okay.
>> So, we're getting it in uh October and we're looking at putting that together. Um and the environmental council, we passed the super fund act. So, anything I'm Thank you. And thank you
for all your hard work. All your hard work. Um that is all I have. Dean, do you have anything? >> Uh, just one quick comment on the business development committee. This Thursday's meeting was uh canceled or
postponed. We're looking to have it instead in the first full week of October and to bring in one or two uh guest business owners to meet with us. That's it for now. >> Okay. Thank you. Uh first on our trails
committee um happy to report that we uh have the sign. You may have remembered that uh at the Glenn uh we got funding. Thank you to our environmental commission uh enabled us to uh obtain um to pay for a sign. We've now completed
that and it's replete with mileage markers. Um, it has it's it's very detailed and so that is going into production probably within the next week. We're trying to see if we can get a QR code for the actual sign itself. So when you approach the sign, you can use
a QR code and then follow it. But there's mile markers, there's it's very detailed. Thank you um to Doug Dystra who was on our trails committee who made that happen, who's a professional uh surveyor. So that sign should be
happening soon. Uh next, uh we are making significant progress on what we are calling uh our safe school trail. Uh that's the trail that will connect the uh middle school to the high school. Um on October 3rd, um uh members of the
trails committee uh will be presenting to the New Jersey Land Trust. Um because as I've mentioned before, uh in order to do this trail, um there's certain property owners that you have to work with. Um and so they are one of them and
they we have to get them to convey uh their property in exchange for us conveying property to them. Um uh Mr. Dystra and Mr. Zep have looked over those properties. Um and they are Sparta Township property. they are uh not
developable and they meet the environmental standards for preserved open space because New Jersey Land Trust only wants to take uh land that you that's already preserved. Um so that will happen uh October 3rd and then assuming that they approve it uh it will
then become uh before council to actually make the conveyance uh from Sparta Township to the New Jersey Land Trust. Um so hope to have that happen um in a meeting in October. Um, so we hope to have good news from them. Um, also
there's uh we there's a private property owner uh that also has uh land uh where the trail will go. Uh, we've been in discussions with them. Uh, they've seemed to be agreable and there may come a time that we have to do a licensing agreement uh with them in order to to
use and be able to traverse that property. So that's just one of the trails. Uh the next one is what we call the iron horse trail. Um that's one that I know that um manager Zep is familiar with because people would terminate at
the DPW and wonder where the trail, you know, and so um that one will kind of follow along all the way up 94 and and and go into like where VOTE is. Um so we have that sketched out. Um obviously along that way are a bunch of different
properties. Um we are setting up a meeting with VOTE. uh hopefully in the next couple weeks about where we want this to go. But we have the map designed. Thanks again to um Doug Dystra who has been very um diligent and very
thorough with with sketching this out. Um and so as we do that, we'll have to have meetings with say for example Camp Sak Jia. Uh Mr. Kimell owns part of the property where the trail will go. But um that one is is progressing. But we're
putting uh our focus really on uh the safe school trails because that's one that the public has really wanted for a long time. And so we're we're working on that one. Um the third one is called the Ogden Mine Trail. So that's the trail kind of in Sparta Glenn um which will
eventually almost terminate up into uh Edison um where the old Edison mines were. And that one also there's a private property owner that uh we have to communicate with that we would need kind of an easement on their propert or maybe purchase it outright um through
the state may purchase it not us. Um anyway that's that's going to be a longer process but we that's another one and I know when I describe these trails you can't really figure out what is he talking about. Well um we're going to solve that problem. Uh we are going to
have um meetings where we're going to hike these trails cuz they are passable right now. It's just when they become trails, we're going to have to clear cut them and stuff. But uh look forward to announcements where we will meet say October, November, whoever wants to see what this trail is and what it's going
to look like. Um we can take you there and uh do a walk. So uh look out for that. We also have uh on on that uh a member of our film committee has agreed has a drone has a drone license and is
um going to take a drone of each of these trails so the public can see what it's going to look like um because you can actually we have the maps are so detailed now you can plug in the coordinates into the drone and the drone will follow the path and we'll probably do that once all the leaves are fallen
because you'll get a better appreciation of of of the trails but Um hopefully that will happen in the next couple months. Um there is one update to uh the Rev 250. Um I learned that we do have
the funding uh for a uh colonial era uh concert. Um which is going to be you know these kind of reenactors uh Erica and Eliza Leak Check. Um they play the cello and harps accord um they are very good. Um they were written up in the
Bergen record uh doing this. They're they're fantastic. We're very lucky they've agreed to do this. Um and due to some sales that the Rev 250 did on their own, they were able to pay for that. So, we're probably going to do that in February, I think. Um and so I just want
to give a big shout out to our Rev 250 members. Uh this is a lot of planning, a lot of calling people. Um and they do a lot of work. We're we're very lucky to have Ben thes on there. He is a uh he's the one that helped us get the tavern
talks. He's he's received all kinds of awards for his work as a reenactor. So, we're very privileged to have him on our committee. Um, next up on the film committee, um, members of the film committee are working with Barnlight
Studios, um, which is a studio, uh, concept. Um they have uh they are working with the Sussex County Community College um such that they're going to have a curriculum and the community college uh will also help with the
entertainment production using you know some of the other students that are there. So folks from the culinary arts will be able to help with the craft services for entertainment production uh the building construction welding they will also help. Um and also the entirely
localled produ uh produced short film Subversion that was filmed in Sparta last year. Um that's in the final stages of postp production. Um and thankfully due to some contacts that uh members of our film committee uh we have some really A-list post-production people
working on this including coloring and sound design things that you know Marvel uses or Amlin uses. um they've been nice enough to donate uh their time to that. So, we hoped that uh post-prouction will wrap up soon and that once the film is
ready to be displayed, we'll have an event uh that the public can uh come to and see it. And that does it for all my liaison updates. Um >> I have one more. >> Okay.
>> Uh I'd like to thank Can I Can I make them stand? Sure, >> Todd. >> Thank you very much. And I just want to address everybody here and whoever is on the on watching on YouTube. Thank you for everything that you have done for
West Shore Trail and what you have had to put up with people being rude and angry and mean is no excuse for that. And you do it every time I drive by. You have a smile on your face. So, God love you for doing it. and moving so quickly
and helping out the town. I we surely appreciate it. >> Yeah. >> Thank you >> you and all the DPW. >> Um one thing I did forget to add about the trails. We've had a generous offer uh by uh Turo Construction that once we
get, you know, are able to start breaking ground that they are willing to donate their time and services to that. So hopefully we'll get to that point where we can give them a call and and and make use of that. So, um, very thankful for, uh, that offer. So, now
we're up to unfinished and new business. And since I'm already talking, I will keep going. Um, on new business, I think I announced uh, last meeting um, that I would like to establish a Sparta beautifification committee. Um, kind of patterned after what you're seeing in
Lake Mohawk where you see the planners. um having spoken to uh the women there about the fantastic job they're doing um they thought it would also be a good idea to do that and sort of extend it up through Main Street. So when you go through Main Street you'll see a sort of
similar beautifification. Um had to track down other towns have this. Danville has one but they started in 1978 and they didn't weren't able to find the original ordinance because we need to do this by ordinance. Uh thankfully uh Clifton, New Jersey does have one. Um so we're going to use that
probably as a template and uh hopefully get that introduced at the next meeting. Um also on the Sparta beautifification committee uh we are very fortunate that we've already had uh an offer to donate uh funds. So this committee will have
resources um and so Joe Daly who did say I could say this so um has offered uh some type we don't know what it is some type of financial resources to get this committee off the ground so when you join this committee um there'll likely
already be resources available and that's uncommon um as you'll see on most all our kind of advisory committees you're not given really a funding right off the bat And so like neither our film committee or even rev 250 has like a line item budget that they can draw on
but the sparta beautifification uh will. So what we would like to do is I would go ahead and people can start applying now if they have interest in it even though it's not up yet. I think what you should do is go on the Sparta Township
website um and there is a uh even though you won't see it in the drop down there's an other that you can check and then it can describe um you know why do you want to volunteer and then in that part you can say Sparta beautifification because I'd like to get that process started so we have a um so they can hit
the ground running as soon as the ordinance gets uh passed hopefully in a month from uh next Tuesday. So, any event, I encourage people to do that. It's a fabulous idea and um I know I've already spoken to some of our business
owners who who love it. And um anyway, I look forward to that one getting off the ground. And finally, um my last update is just congratulations um to uh Sean and Helen Pen Paladini. I
had the pleasure of marrying them at their house uh on that beautiful Saturday. Um, and it was fantastic. And the the irony is I knew um Mr. Paladini's mom because she was a Asbury Park reporter back in the day and so I
would see her at council meetings back when I was doing some journalistic work. So I recognized her. Uh, but anyway, congratulations to them. Okay. Anyone else with unfinished or new business? >> No, I do not. >> No.
>> Okay. Mark, do you have any unfinished or new business? >> No, I'll save it. >> Okay. Okay. We are now up to the final uh public comment period. Again, state your
name for the record. Uh and you're limited to one comment of no more than 5 minutes and no yielding of time to another person. >> Hi, good evening again. Eric Aronson from Sparta. Uh this is first part is just going to be a question with regards to the concerns that were bought for our fellow Spartans about uh Sussex Mills
area. I I thought I saw not too long ago there was a position open in the township for zoning and code enforcement officer. Has that position been filled? Yes or no? >> No. >> No. All right. So besides whatever it may be in litigation, how could that practically be enforced
without a zoning officer in place? I feel that the people from the that neighborhood that came and spoke before the council I think should be informed in the interest of transparency that there's no person in place to do such enforcement. So >> they have >> there there you have there you have that answer.
>> I mean hopefully it's in the process but >> they have been informed. >> I didn't hear that anything on the record about that just when they spoke to the council this evening. So >> you asked them >> I I didn't hear you. I'm sorry sir. >> You can ask them. They've they I have corresponded with them. I okay I've given >> but for the purpose of everybody else
that's here in the room and other people that may be watching maybe they weren't benefit that correspondence that should have been put on the record I'm glad it is now I'm glad we clear the eye on that so thank you for the answer on that um other thing in the discussions that came up during the first public comment period a little confused here about the uh
statement of the township so who is the township right the township the daily operations are that of Mr. Zep the township manager and then administratively of the elected governing body. Obviously, there's some dissension amongst the governing body with the exclusion of Councilman Scott
and Councilwoman Mur Murphy. Um to their objection, Mr. Zep said he didn't write the statement. He said it's not his words. They said it's not their words. You said it's not yours. People pointed at Mr. Dash. So, just who's is it? One
person and one person only. Clearly, I think rode that answer. But before before you answer that respectfully, I I need to bring forward the statute that was cited, the New Jersey statute, that's not even a correct statute. That's a statute pertaining to the electronic notification system in the
state of New Jersey when the state government orders the flags to be lowered. Not whether or not there's going to be obedience to what the governor may or may not say. That's simply a notification system. So, was that statute dug up? Was was that statute dug up by our town attorney at the township expense for an incorrect
statute? Yes or no? >> Okay, I'm getting affirmative nod from Councilman Scott. Mayor, do you have an answer to that? Yes or yes or no? >> All your questions and then just just go with this. Yes or no? >> Just answer the question. >> Because I don't want to take up your time answering it. Are you done with your question? >> You're taking up my time by not
answering it. Just please answer it. >> Yes or no? >> I'll wait till your your time is expired. So what? I'm going to get my time. I'm waiting for you. Sir, >> do you have any other questions? Okay, then then we'll >> I have one other point to bring up, but it's not a question. It's a statement. But please answer. You're you're wasting
everybody's time here, including yours and the other residents. Am I >> I'm I'm I'm not grasping what you're trying to >> Don't play games. I asked a simple question. Whose words were these? Were these your words? >> No, they were not my words. >> And then we Okay, I'm speaking right now, sir. I didn't interrupt you when
you spoke. Okay, I'm speaking now. This is my time. Okay. Then the other part was is the township being built for the attorney for the incorrect statute. Yes or no? >> Well, I I reject your characterization that it's an incorrect statute, sir. Do you have a legal degree? >> Are you licensed to practice law in the
state of New Jersey? >> I asked you a question. Are you allowed >> I'm the one I'm the one actually asking the question. I know my time. >> Okay. So, the answer to that question is no. And so when you say there's an incorrect citation of a statute, I'm going to believe the attorney who is licensed in New Jersey in municipal law,
not someone who's not. And so >> I realized there was a specific lensure for municipal law. >> Sir, I'm not going to quibble with you. >> You're doing that right now. >> Finish your statement. What is >> Well, you you clearly can't answer that question, so I'll move on. >> No, I did answer to I'll let the record
reflect that. Thank you. the last part you were discussing about Robert's rules of orders before. So at the uh council meeting in the big beginning of August, I don't think you have the right to talk about Robert's rules of order. the way you acted at the meeting, just getting up, walking out mid meeting to end a
quorum when council members Scott and Murphy brought forward a motion, a seconded motion, even when attorney Dash said there was a quorum, then you failed to conduct the rest of the parliamentary process to have discussion to hold votes on it, and then just up and walked out
after he informed you there was a there was a quorum. I think that's I think that's wrong, and I think you forfeit the right to talk about Robert's rules of order when you can't abide by that yourself. That's all I have. Thank you. >> And thank >> I will say that I already issued a
statement about that. Um, and I understand someone who's not an attorney, never served uh on a municipal council would probably have a difficulty grasping some of these issues. Um, and I understand that you can make every
accusation you want. That's your um but don't take lack of response as agreeing to what you said. Um I I stand by our attorney and what he wrote and what uh we said he he said and the township said
in that statement. >> Hi, my name is Jennifer Phillips. Um, I'm here just to make a brief statement about uh the unfortunate and sad decision not to lower the flag um
at a time when many of us were greatly and sadly affected by a terrible act. And my heart's beating at 90 miles an hour, so please bear with me. But primarily, I'd like to say that um it's my
understanding that our president basically said that it would be um that he would like to see us lower the flag in as respect as a level of respect. I understand that our governor decided that that wasn't prudent and for
whatever rules and governing rules. What makes me the saddest is that it appears that a decision was made in a community and we are a community and you're you're basically elected to represent our beliefs and our thoughts and at a time
an unprecedented time and hopefully we'll we won't see anything like this again anytime soon. I feel that it would have been a very good idea to whether it's prudent to call an executive meeting or to simply as a as an act of
of respect reach out to our members who do represent us as a community and maybe get a collective idea as to whether or not they were going to um go along with what the president of the United States had recommended a and considered our
wishes and what we might as a people want. I'm terribly disappointed at the way it went. I think it was hugely disrespectful. I think that while many of us while some of us don't feel that it deserved the respect,
there are many of us, many of us that do. And it's a it just shows one more time a lack of respect for people and a lack of respect for human nature. And we are a community. and I'm terribly disappointed that that decision was made
regardless of statutes, but we are a community at the end of the day. Thank you. >> Thank you, Ben. >> Joanne Scally. Um, I'm ask a direct question. I expect an honest answer on the cannabis dispensary.
um when you vote it into law um 3 to2 it became law and according to New Jersey once it becomes law it's law for 5 years um and it cannot be changed um no matter what um what is your answer
on that um is our referendum just blowing smoke you know >> any other questions take your time >> I have other things um the trails when the trails are connected, can strangers walk through our school grounds?
Um, the other one is with Beth um and her being nominated. I did ask you last time um why Anand Dash did not um say that you need to do um alternate one, alternate two.
And then when I went back and reviewed other meetings, he immediately told him, "Well, you have to do um alternate one and alternate two." Is that a coincidence that it was not done at the meeting that you walked out on on a um quorum that your own attorney said it
was a proper quorum? It might not be the quorum that you wanted, but it was still a quorum. Um and there's one other thing and it slipped my mind. Oh, you could answer and I'll think about it. Uh, your first question calls for a
legal analysis. I I can't give you that about what the interplay between the resolution. I mean, the referendum and the um cannabis statute and the ordinance. That's that's a complicated question. Um, and that's, you know, like
I said, that the referendum vote will be a factor, but I I can't uh sit here and tell you, you know, you know, what that means, how how they interplay with one another. Um that's something that our uh attorney and other members of the council will have to wrestle with um
after November. >> But it was made law when you voted it in and according to the state once it's made law it's five years you know so I don't understand how it could possibly be changed. Um that's just my um
question. I don't think that you know that you can't give an answer. I think you should be able to give an answer. Um, and against the trails again. Oh, one other thing. April 22nd, did you go back and review that on YouTube that I asked you last meeting
and you said you did not? >> No, I haven't. I haven't looked at it. >> So, you don't care what constituents come up. >> That's that's your characterization. Um, >> well, you would have an answer for me this week. I did ask and request that you have an answer for me. >> Okay. And that that had to do with whether I said something to someone. Is
that right? >> You may. >> Okay. Um, as to your your concern about the uh the the trails, obviously the board of ed will be completely brought in and read into that and that we've already had a meeting about it. Um, and so that as we get further down the line,
of course um that our board of ed would have say so for wherever that trail goes into the school so that you know wouldn't interrupt or disrupt um school proceedings and we'll take our cues on that particular part of it uh from the board of ed. So,
>> okay. But it's scary with school school shootings. We don't want strangers on our property. Um, with that um and was it one other thing and I just can't get it. Okay. Um, well, thank you for your time. Oh, that was the other one. Um, at
the um vigil you stated uh that when someone asked you if um it was your decision, would you vote uh would you lower the flag? And you said no. what you should have said it was my decision and I voted not to lower it. Thank you.
>> Uh I I'll just say that would have not been the truth um if I had said it was my decision. Um two is I think that I was asked a direct question and what I find very troubling sometimes about what politicians do is they'll they'll they'll obiscate or I could have said
well I don't know. I told you how I would decide it personally and I felt you deserved an answer to that directly instead of some kind of tap dance around the answer um that you see a lot of the time. So that's why you got the answer that you did. >> But you were the one that sent
>> Ma'am, your time is expired. >> I had six seconds when you were talking um but you sent the directive to the heads um and ordered them not to lower the flag. So it was you. Thank you. Rick Fle Sparta U might be a question
for Jim. I had a question about the ordinance on salaries. I know it was an introduction, but I'm not going to be here in two weeks, so I have a basic question. Are these um increases from last year? And can you give me the percentage of increase?
>> How about this? Why don't we can you can you send that to us and then we we'll make sure let's make sure that question gets answered >> at the hearing and then I know you won't be there >> but we'll make sure that gets transmitted to you. Uh otherwise we're we're getting ahead of ourselves on the introduction save and that's it's a fair
question. Um I just want to keep to the process. So if you would you have or and and just ask it and then whoever make sure we answer that. >> I'll send it. Thank you. William Stern. Um, again, I don't mean
to beat a dead horse, but you brought up a good question, Councilman Scott. Uh, Mr. Zep, who do we call if it's Saturday and there's 20 vehicles
in the yard and uh and we know there's a fire ordinance that's being uh broken. Who should we call? Should we and who's going to respond? And do the police have
the responsibility to the town people to respond and potentially evict the renters that are there that weekend? Because we know that the home is a
residential property that now has five sets of adults in it. Please answer that because that is uh we don't know. >> Anytime you're in fear of your health
and safety, you can call the police and the police will direct it properly uh if if it isn't in their purview. All right? They'll do that regardless. All right? Otherwise, you can call the Harrison contact information on the website or you could do what you've you've been
doing, the neighborhood has been doing. I'm very well aware of situation up there. I have addressed it to the best of my abilities with the departments that I have. I know that the fire >> carry it a step further though. >> The well we are >> with enforcement
>> right with the guidance of council of how far we can go with enforcement with what's being done. I I do know that the fire marshall has been out there twice and the previous code enforcement officer has been out there. All right. the the allegations that the
neighborhood the allegations that you that that have been alleged are being worked on as best to to my ability. Yeah. I know it isn't to your satisfaction, but it is to the best ability that I'm able to address them. >> I think we're both on the same side of the issue.
>> I I I believe the township does not want uh these hotel boarding house situations going on. And to that extent we were both on the same side. But the answer we got from the code
enforcement officer because I went there with uh Paul Drada uh was that his job ends at 4:00. So most of these situations happen after his time and he doesn't work on the weekends. So there's
nobody to call and then the police department doesn't have they don't know which direction to take it. So um we'd love to see them have the power to uh
take take a codereing situation and be able to say guys you got to leave you can't be here. That would be very simple and I think it would be best interest of the town. >> I I agree. It's a work in progress and I ask for your patience and let me work
through it the best we can. >> But so what do we expect which what should we expect? >> I have your email Mr. Stern. I I have several of the other neighbors. >> Yeah. >> And I have been corresponding with them. I'm sure they should. >> I know I know Chris Rose been in touch.
>> Chris Rose and Stacy we've corresponded with. Um, I I you're new. You're new, but I would love to have your email address, and I'm happy to get you the best I can. >> I'm the oldest and the longest resident. I've been here for 29 years, so uh and
they're all new, >> but we we will address this. It's just it's not as clear-cut as we would like it to be. >> Yes, I agree. >> So, >> I agree. All right. Well, thank you, >> sir. If I may, you can you can contact the police department. We will go out in
in situations after hours where you think there's a danger to people. That's part of our job. We'll take a look at things if we see some type of issue that we can refer to the fire marshall's office. We will. Maybe they may need to come out that night. If we see something
in danger, um if not, then they will follow up. >> Can you actually effectuate that >> as far as evicting people? No. >> No. Effectuate getting a marshall out there >> if there is a need. Yes. at night. >> Yes. >> On a weekend. >> Yes.
>> That's great. >> There has to be a need for >> We'll let your officers know that. >> Our officers know that >> and they know not to slough it off because it's >> my officers don't slough anything off. We are very profession. We are very professional. We come out. A lot of
times there's been issues with parking out there that have been reported as issues. We go out. >> We document them. We have body warn cameras. as we go out, make sure that >> right >> people could get by. There's no uh violations, Title 39 violations as far as parking in front of fire hydrant, too
close to a stop sign, blocking somebody's driveway, making sure emergency vehicles could pass, um you know, things of that nature that I know that you're all going through. As far as like vehicle vehicles uh being parked in a driveway, if there's 20 vehicles being parked in the driveway, we can't enforce
anything there. That's why I'm saying your hands are tied and and so but but if you see 20 cars in there and it's 11:00 at night and it's not a party, they're staying there. Um
it's beyond parking and those other things you said. It's >> the consistency of what has been, you know, basically reported to our offices. the things that we see and we put on body camera is what we refer to to the zoning office in this case. I understand
as right now there's some issues with that enforcement, but we have that documentation. We have it in reports and we have it in uh on our body warrant cameras. So, >> I get a business card. >> I could talk to you after the meeting. Um All right.
>> But my my email is on the the township website and I'm very responsive. You could shoot me an email with any questions you have. >> You're welcome. >> If you ma'am, ma'am, I'm sorry if if you guys want to have a discussion outside,
but we have other members of the public who would like to speak. Thank you. >> Hi, good evening. Kathy Ebikaus and Sparta. I have two requests and or I guess requests or questions. Um, you may remember a couple years ago I brought
this up. It seems to be an issue again. I think this question is more for managers up or for you chief. Um, there are cable boxes throughout the township with glaring green lights similar to what you see on the the deas there, but
probably 10 times bigger and brighter. I'm not sure if you're familiar with those, but a couple of years ago, I made a request to have them dimmed when they're facing properties, houses. Um, that was done. Um, I spoke with uh Corpam Morris about that and that seemed
to be rectified then. Uh, it seems to be an issue. Again, I don't know if they did work on one of the boxes, the one in front of my house specifically, um, but it is offensive at night uh, in my windows as I'm trying to sleep. So, the reason I'm here today is just to ask
that that be remedied. I'm not sure if there's other boxes in town that are also or other properties that are facing this, but just to bring it to your attention. Um, that it's just obnoxiously bright at night. I'd ask that that be remedied, at least in front of my house. I don't know if there's others. So, that's the first question or
request. Uh, and then secondly is around West Mountain. Um, I live off of West Mountain and therefore I drive that road every day. Uh, my question is, and I'm not sure if it's to you, Chief, or to
you, uh, Manager Zep, what determines what speed limit is posted on West Mountain? because by the high school um over by Radcliffe, Scutters, Graphic, uh as you get to Graphic, it's 40 all of a
sudden and the majority of West Mountain seems to be 35. And I can't for the life of me make an under, you know, make a determination what would have made that change coming past gutters down the hill. And the reason I bring this up is because there's a lot of people running
on that road, walking dogs, and it just seems strange that it would just suddenly go up to 40 when the majority of the road is 35. So that's all I have. >> So the majority of the road is 30. >> 30. Even better. Thank you.
>> Partial of the road in certain areas 15. It is 40 miles per hour from 517 up until uh I believe Radcliffe or graphic right >> um during school hours in the school zone is 25. Uh these speed limits go back a long long time. We've done many
of studies on West Mountain Road. We highly enforce that road. Um it's used as a cutthrough road from you know Route 157 to 94. um you know uh obviously if there's speeders or there's uh violations out there we will enforce and
we do. >> Okay. So there's nothing specific that you can point to as to why it's 40 there >> before my time. >> Okay. Can that be addressed? Can that be brought down to 30? >> Um I could look into that but I you know I'm really not sure the procedure for
that but I could definitely look into that. >> Okay. So that's my request just because there's so many people that walk that road. I mean, even on Facebook, I see people complaining or or even worrying about people that are not walking with bright lit clothing. Um, you know, there's kids with ebikes now, other
bikes. There's just it seems to be more traveled lately with pedestrians and bikes. So, it's and dogs and so on and so forth. So, that's just something I would like to request to be looked at. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else for public comment?
Hi, Cat Mateo again. Um, I hear a lot of comments and questions tonight that have to do with a lot of thorny legal issues. I am a licensed attorney and I kind of just wanted to come up here and just, you know, from my other residents just say like be patient with these folks,
right? like they are dealing with a lot of very complicated issues that unfortunately sometimes they do have to look to state guidance, you know, different legislation that is not necessarily federal but local. Um, you know, we understand that most of you are doing this. You're donating your time.
You're not getting paid to be here. Um, and you're trying to do your best for our town. Our town is fantastic. And I think unfortunately today's meeting doesn't seem to reflect that in the comments. And I hate for you guys to walk away and just get beaten up every time because it's a thankless job I'm
sure. Um I love this town. Um everyone that I've interacted with has been engaged and interested and um you know all the way from you know the police to the fire um folks have all been fantastic. Um up in Chapel Hill we've
had a couple situations just even this summer there was a a fire that started on a tree um by a power line that was close. The police came immediately. I mean, we called. It was probably a twominute response time. Um, you know, the fire folks came immediately after.
Um, everyone in this town has been so engaged. They want to do the right thing. So, just to everybody else who's here, like, let's be patient with these folks. Um, you know, they they mean well. I know that sometimes, you know, people are going to be disappointed with decisions that are made, whether that be votes that you're making. You know,
folks aligning and not aligning at different times, but like harassing you guys is not appropriate. Um, you're trying to do your best. We see that in the town. That's why everybody stays here. Um, if everybody really hated it, folks would have left. Um, the attrition would be high and that's just not the
case. Um, our town is amazing. All of you have been a part of that. You're you you contribute as, you know, residents yourselves. um as folks who want to do the right thing. I know the the the police I can't say enough. My husband is in law enforcement. So, we have seen firsthand just how engaged, responsive,
on the road, visible um you guys are doing the right thing. So, I think today's crowd maybe doesn't reflect that and folks may be a little angry, but that just means come to more meetings, right? Vote um get involved because you will see that they are trying to do the right thing and in some ways they are
tied by, you know, legislation and different things. Um, and let me back my attorney over here. He's doing the right thing. I know that, you know, lawyers, we spend a lot of time looking into all kinds of different laws just to be licensed with the state and to pass the
bar. Um, so let's give a little respect to our attorney. I know that he's, you know, looking at the right things and doing the right things. And unfortunately, they he will sometimes come with an outcome that is not in your, you know, specific favor. Um, but you guys are doing the right thing. So
kudos to you guys. a lot of us appreciate it. Um, I look forward to seeing you at other meetings. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Jenny Derek's tap into Sparta. Oops. Couple of quick things, some not so
quick. Um, Mr. Zep in follow up with what Mr. Finle asked and I was going to do this anyway just um to give you a heads up for the next meeting. Can we get for the next meeting for the hearing of ordinance 2516
the delta the change from this year are all the positions that are listed on that um on that lengthy list. Are they all filled or is there an intention to fill them if they're currently empty? Um and that that would that's just it
for that. Thank you. Is Adal Weiss under appeal? Have they formally appealed? Um, won't changing the process to fill vacancies on statutory
and other boards, won't that require an ordinance or at least an ordinance change? The ordinances as they write are written for zoning and planning. I admit I didn't look at environmental do have do note
vacancies and how that vacancies are an appointment. So wouldn't if you're going to expand that process, wouldn't that need to be um codified in our ordinances? The cannabis uh question about the state
law. Um, Mr. Dash, maybe you can back me up on this. When the cannabis when any ordinance is passed, isn't it 20 days until it goes into effect? >> Correct. >> And so when the referendum process took place and the petitions were handed in,
didn't that initiate its own timeline for holding that in obeyance or borrowing, whatever the proper legal term is? >> I I think that's generally correct. So then there are three at least that I I'm aware of two at least or possibly three
different timelines that then get um brought into play. You have the pro pro um the qualification of the petitions themselves and you have two other um two other stages of the process. In this
case, it was moot because the um cannabis petition was in itself defective because you can't have land use changed by a referendum. However, in the interim and while that time bar was
still in effect, so in other words, while that ordinance was still being held in obeyance, the council took action to extend the time that that ordinance went into effect until January. Is that not correct? >> That's generally correct.
>> So then we're not in jeopardy theoretically or as far as we know or as much as you can tell us tonight that it is a law because Sparta took steps in accordance with the Faulner and and municipal land use law of New Jersey to
hold it in obeyance and then take the proper steps to then move the date of effectiveness of that ordinance to the following year. Council, I would just caution you. Um, that's a that's a long question involving a legal issue. Um,
and at now may not be the appropriate time. It's up to you, but I'm just telling you as a fellow member of the bar, um, be careful how you, you know, try to bind the >> intent behind changing the ordinance date, effective date, that was done in
accordance with the law at the time. the the bar the hold the obeyance of the existing law and it was changed and all of that was done with the intent to follow the law. So is that still the case?
>> Yes, the council has always followed the law with respect to any ordinances that it passed. >> So as far as we're concerned in Sparta, the cannabis ordinance has been held in abance until a new start date of January regardless of what happens with the
vote. That's a reasonable interpretation. >> Mr. Zap, what's going on with the landfill >> still there? It's a slow process of transferring the parcels that we are donating.
>> D uh is requesting that uh a survey of meets and bounds for each parcel be done. And uh Doug Dra is actually helping me uh uh with the process. so the D can accept the parcels. So, it's moving along ever so slowly.
>> Do we have an expectation or some type of a general timeline when this will be completed? And maybe we can understand when we're going to get some money out of this process. >> I'll be honest with you, I'm not comfortable in speculating on a timeline right now. >> Thank you. Uh do you have a answer to
the question about the ordinance ch the requirement for an ordinance change for vac filling vacancies? U that's a legal question that I'd have to I'm not at liberty or have prepared to answer >> Broadick Northshore. Um this might be a question for you chief. Has Lake Mohawk
spoken to you about changing the traffic for when they take the Westshore bridge out? >> Can you say that a little bit louder, please? >> Traffic. has Lake Mohawk reached out to you about traffic for when they take the Westshore trail bridge out. >> Yeah, general talks. Um, obviously
waiting for them to have a timeline on when they are expected to get started. >> Okay. And then another question. Um, I believe there used to be, and I don't know if this Roxan, this may be for you, there used to be a list of people that applied for different positions on the
boards like town, sorry, not town um, but planning, zoning, and environmental. Does that list still exist? >> Made a public list. >> Yeah. Like when people apply and say, "Hey, I'd like to I'd like zoning to be my first choice, library to be my second uh like this board or that board first,
second, third if they want to apply." >> I don't recall us having an actual public list. When they apply, it ends up, you know, >> like in a database and that still exists, right? >> But yeah, but it's not it's not advertised. It's just they're they're just advertisering
and then council has to consider. >> Okay. The reason I ask is if there are people that have applied for the planning, zoning, and anything else that would possibly like or if anyone else applied for the open positions, will all of them now be subject to the interview
process assuming that goes through? >> Will all you're saying? >> So if there are >> Yeah. anyone who wants to try to I mean that I mean we'll see if we can agree on a process but my view of it is anyone who's applying for a currently vacant
position um would go under the process that we've announced that you would have either an executive session or in open session an interview process with the council. So my question is if I I don't know obviously wouldn't have access to
any kind of you know list or collection of people that have applied but let's say that you applied to be on planning four years ago. Now that there's an open position for planning if you were Joe resident would you also be subject to
the interview process that you prop proposed at the last meeting or is that just for people that applied recently? No, it's for the So, I think what the confusion is you're having, I think, is you're you're trying to tie it with the date of the application. Date of the application, frankly, is irrelevant. It
it's if you were seeking an open position, a current open position on either zoning board or planning board is the proposal that you would come before the council even whether you applied 5 minutes ago or 5 years ago. Even though I we probably don't even have records of five, it's only two years, right?
>> Two years or only. So, when you applied uh doesn't matter. >> That's what I was getting at. I wanted to make sure that if there were like three people that wanted planning and or zoning that they would be subject to the same >> guidelines that you proposed and it
wasn't just a new thing or hey you know these three applications came in or two whatever the number is. >> Yeah. And and I think that's why and you've identified why we'd have to do it for everyone whether you applied five minutes ago or or you know two years ago you'd all undergo that same process. Some people we'd have to contact and see
if they're still interested. They may not be, but you know, the process would be the same for everyone. It wouldn't be, well, you applied three years ago, therefore you don't have to go through this process that someone applied 15 minutes ago has to go through. >> Okay. And then my last question is
because it's 22, there's an even number on council right now. Is it realistic to think that we would not have an answer on next steps for filling those positions until after the November election when we have a fifth person on the board on council? >> Well, we're going to work to try to make
that happen beforehand. I I I can endeavor to try to do that without having to wait for a fifth council person. I hope we can. Um but I'm only one vote. I'm not three votes. >> Okay. Cuz I think the election is what? When's the election, Mark? >> November 4th.
>> All right. because it just seems like, you know, we'd have to, you know, we're putting it on hold and then get all the everything sorted out. Just seems like a huge delay process if we I still have 42 seconds. Um we it just seems like we we should address this before the election
if at all possible. And hopefully that hopefully all four of you can come to some kind of grown-up resolution and stop with the nonsense and make sure that we're doing what's best for the town and best for people even the people that are on this dis that may or may not
be qualified to be up on the dis. >> Thank you Beth. I you know Margie and I do not know what the motive or their their reason for uh the delay and and this interview process seems to be a a unilateral decision by uh the mayor.
>> Okay. Beth, we get we get it. I understand. I agree with you. >> I I understand. I understand. It's frustrating and and and believe me, I would like to get it filled sooner rather than later. Um that's not there's not they're not trying to run out the
clock trying to delay. Believe me, I you know, we've already tried to make efforts to fill the class two. Um I I I want to fill these positions. We're not trying to run it out. So, um I agree and I hope this council can can work together to reach a resolution for these
appointments even before um the November election. I hope we can do that. >> You know, we got a quorum here tonight. I I make I make a motion that we appoint Beth Brick to the zoning board seat number one.
Second. Go ahead. You sure? Agenda subject to change. I will second that. >> Now, why Beth Brick? Beth Brick attends a lot of almost all of the
uh town council meetings, many of the planning board meetings, if not all of them, and many of the zoning meetings. She's active. She's interested. She's fair. She's balanced. She seems to be uh very interested in helping the community. And that's the reason I
believe Beth Broadick would be an excellent person for the zoning board for seat number one or designation number one. Um, and if you really look into the ordinance, we were
tripped up here by by a technicality, but really once the council once the council voted you in, right? Once there was a two to one vote, right? It's the mayor's decision who is number one and
who is number two. And the fact that we didn't declare it is is just a technicality that they're using to delay this. Right? It says clearly in the law that the mayor makes the number one and number two decision. And this has been
just a delay tactic dancing around the law by Neil and Dean and we just don't know why. >> Are you? Are you finished? Because that's incorrect. You're incorrect. >> Yeah, they you had legal advice from the
planning attorney who gave the the instruction on the zoning appointments. It wasn't me. It wasn't Mr. Dash. It was the the planning board attorney. So we have the zoning board attorney. >> I don't know where you're coming up with that it was my interpretation or my role
that's contrary to legal um that advice that you got. So uh in any event, we have a a motion and a second. Uh I just want to make sure so we don't get tripped up. Is that a correct motion? Did he do it properly this time?
>> Yes, it was designating her as the alternate number one. >> Okay. So, we have a a motion uh for alternate one for Beth Broadick. Um and so we have a second and then we'll do it as a roll call. >> Roll call. Councilman, >> have a question.
>> Okay. >> How many other candidates do we have in the last two years for this position? >> I don't have that number in front of me. Uh, Councilman Bmeni, we have a couple We have a couple of applications for that.
>> Okay. >> Any other questions, Dean? >> No, no. I I prefer that we work out the process and and hear all the candidates and review them rather than just do one. >> Yeah, >> preference. >> That's mine as well, but we'll we have a
we have a >> Should we wait? Should we wait until you two create a process? >> No, we will. >> We've been waiting. We've been waiting for a long time. We've been waiting for the two weeks that Dean Mennetti said we
were going to have a town council person. That was three months ago. And now we're waiting again to put people that want to help, that want to work, that want to volunteer their time on the zoning board, on the planning board. and
to have this delay because of cannabis is just preposterous. Thank you. >> Well, one, um, are you not in favor of the process that we've identified? And if you're not, I think you owe it to the the the your fellow people to explain
why. Why do you not want a process whereby members on these very important boards come before the council and we all get to uh see why they wanted to be on the council and why on the boards? Are you opposed to that and why?
>> Well, at the time of the vote, there were two applicants. There was Beth Broadick and Adrien Meman. Two people at the time of the vote. And then we voted and then we get this legal runaround.
And so that was the process. There was two people, there was two seats, and then we were told, well, we didn't declare who is number one and number two. I'm declaring Beth Brick number one.
>> I I think the question was, why are you opposed to the process that we've identified? I think it would be >> Why are we changing that in the midstream? >> I think you should. Is that why you're opposed to it? Because you're saying that's not the process that we followed before. I'm sorry. >> It was not the process we followed before. >> Okay. And so, um,
>> and why are we changing when all of a sudden these these positions were open open, the chair of the zoning board asked for help wanting people on the board and all of a sudden we have two applicants and then you just you make a
just come up with an idea that we should interview and it's not been done in many years. >> I think you'll recall that you made the motion without notifying your fellow council member that you intended to do so. I don't we had a quorum. >> We had a quorum.
>> May I finish, please? Thank you. Of >> certainly. Okay, your honor. >> Um, so in order to prevent uh what happened a month ago um for these very important boards, uh we have identified a process. You say you don't want to go through
that process. You'd rather just get a motion out of the way and get it done. I understand that. And so I think that's where we are. Why do you want the process all of a sudden? >> Why do you want the process all of a sudden? >> It's not Well, one, it's because all of
a sudden means because apparently we haven't been able to follow simple rules of the quorum and professional practice that you notify your fellow council members before you intend to make a motion for appointment. That's how it's done. And so in light of that,
>> that part of Robert's rules of order. I never saw that in there. >> Is this Neil's forum? No, this is how it's been practiced. I know that you're relatively new to this position. You probably don't understand those those type of processes. However, in light of
that, in light of this motion that you made to appoint someone without identifying your fellow council members, um >> which is not against the rule and it's not an ethics violation as you like to >> often charge me with. >> I'm trying to explain to you why we're
doing it this way. Okay. >> Okay. May I finish, >> please? >> Okay. And so also as we have found these are very important positions to have right and I think that what has been demonstrated is that more vetting is necessary than has been currently
accustom and by going through the process of every council person having the opportunity to meet the person to talk to them to explain why I think that's a a reasonable process to undergo which was brought on because we were
ambushed with a with with a planning board I mean a zoning board appointment that's why and if you want to understand why we're doing that process that is why but I also understand you don't you don't agree with that no it's that >> mark I think you should try to comport
yourself in a dignified manner without trying to characterize your fellow council members position okay I know it's easy I know it that that that makes you feel good but it's not effective Okay. I'm trying to explain a process to you why we're
doing what we're doing. >> Great. >> So, there you are. We don't have an agreement over the process. We have a motion. We have a second. So, why don't we take a vote on Beth Broadick as uh alternate one for the zoning board? >> Councilman Scott,
>> yes. >> Councilman Blumemedi, >> no. >> Deputy Mayor Murphy, >> yes. >> Mayor Clark, >> no. meeting. >> There you have it, folks. Woman's been
to every meeting in the past three or four years, but she may not be qualified. Okay. All right. I think we're at the conclusion. Uh, may I have a motion to adjourn? >> I'd like to say one thing. Uh, Chief,
I'd like to thank you extremely very very appreciative that for the hanging with the heroes that we get a lot of people out there get all the the you have signs made, you have flyers made and it's on the website and thank you so
much for the donation for the Sparta Community Food Pantry because we are in desperate need as we support all the other towns in Sussex County and they have been coming to us for help more and more and more and we just don't have enough to help them out. So, thank you.
Thank you very much. >> And sir, I have thanked you privately. Um I do appreciate um the police response uh to the past week. Uh the extra patrols um the threat assessments that you've um undertaken. I appreciate
that. My family appreciates it. Um, and we're very fortunate to have the police force that we do. So, thank you. >> Sir, if I just say one thing, there's a lot going on, not just in this town, across the country. Policing is much different. A lot of people think that we
just go over and go out and pull over cars, and that's not the case. You know, the men and women in Sparta Police Department are the best. I'm saying it not just because I'm their chief, because I know it. I see what they do every day. We have 16 schools in this town, public
and private, plenty of preschools out there. These officers are out there walking through these schools every day to make sure that our students and the staff are safe, making sure that our employees here are safe, making sure that anybody that visits our town are safe.
And they do it with pride and then they do it with the best professionalism that I've ever seen. And you could thank me, but I think we should thank them because they're the ones that are out there walking the beat and doing it. And they're doing it without a question. Whether they're going through a school,
stopping a car, or they're going taking a complaint about parking, they're going to do it and they're going to be there. That's going to continue to happen. So, thank them. >> That's why they're safest that's why we're the safest town in New Jersey.
>> Thank you. Um and and I will conclude with um I would advise I've seen a lot about contacting people's employers about um you know maybe statements that they've made in an attempt to get them fired. Be
very careful about that. People who before you do that I would recommend that you read the cyber harassment statute. Um also read that people have a property interest and then their employment. And so if you read the statute and it says that you threats to
people's property done through cyber um you're you're you're bumping up a very dangerous road um one that could subject you to civil and criminal liability and also you probably don't want to do that uh to a law firm. And so I'll leave with
that. Thank you. >> We need a motion mayor. We need a motion. May >> I have a motion to adjurnn? >> I'll make a motion to adjurnn. May I have a second? >> Second. >> All those in favor say I. >> I. Right. >> We're adjourned.
>> Thank you all for coming out tonight. >> Thank you very much. Thank you all on