WEBVTT METADATA Video-Count: 1 Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=LncHo5an3UM Part: 1 1 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:28.720 instead of uh the ground up tire pellet things over here. So, I don't know if that made a difference. >> I've heard that the cork is better. >> Okay. >> Environmental maybe, but it may degrade faster. >> It's a little mispl. >> Okay. >> All right. This meeting is being held in 2 00:00:28.720 --> 00:00:45.360 accordance with public laws 1975 chapter 231. Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided by a note sent to the star ledger, the local source and posted in the main lobby of the municipal building and on the township website. Uh I was going to invite him up 3 00:00:45.360 --> 00:01:01.120 but he's already up. We would like to welcome Vice Commander of American Legion Post 228 Mark Krauss to lead us in the pledge. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under [clears throat] God, 4 00:01:01.120 --> 00:01:21.119 indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Please remain standing for a moment of silence for our service members here and abroad. >> Madame clerk, please call the role. >> Mayor Laer, >> present. >> Deputy Mayor Kaiser, >> present. >> Committeeman Capes, 5 00:01:21.119 --> 00:01:37.520 >> here. Committeeman Yuber >> here. >> Committeeman Weber >> here. >> Proclamations and announcements. The Springfield 55 plus residents calendar for July and August is out. I will admit it is less packed than your 6 00:01:37.520 --> 00:01:54.560 average month because we're in the summer. Um Springfield Public Library is pleased to host a summer concert. On Wednesday, July 15th, which is tomorrow, Trio will be performing at 6 PM in front of town hall. Bring your lawn chairs and 7 00:01:54.560 --> 00:02:12.319 enjoy an evening of classic rock and popular ad music favorites. In the event of inclement weather, the performance will be moved indoors at the library. The next township committee meeting is Tuesday, August 18th at 700 p.m. All 8 00:02:12.319 --> 00:02:28.000 storm debris must be placed by the curb no later than Sunday, July 19th. Please do not block storm drains. Debris must be must not exceed 5t in length or 10 in in diameter. Brush placed at the curb 9 00:02:28.000 --> 00:02:44.000 after July 19th will not be collected. The bid is pleased to announce a music festival. Thursday, July 23rd from 6:00 to 8:00. Music by the characters. Only one act for a festival. 10 00:02:44.000 --> 00:03:00.959 >> That's not a festival. It's a concert. >> Call them what you want. >> You said festival. >> It's a concert. >> Music by the characters. Free ice cream and hot dogs while supplies last. >> Cooking the ice uh the hot dogs. >> Hot dog truck, right? >> He was great. We had him for the 250th. 11 00:03:00.959 --> 00:03:18.159 He was excellent. >> Hot and and the good humor. The good humor. >> It's good humor. >> Excellent. >> Mayor, before you go to the executive session. >> Yeah. >> Can I I'd like to read something, >> please. >> Okay. The Springfield community is 12 00:03:18.159 --> 00:03:34.319 deeply mourning the recent loss of two beloved people and dedicated members of the town. Mike, and I'm going to his last name, is Koskiowski. Dowski and Lou Monaco. Mike was a passionate 13 00:03:34.319 --> 00:03:50.159 sports fixture who coached football, basketball, and lacrosse, serving as a driving force behind the creation of the Dayton Boys Lacrosse program. Lou also spent many years coaching local 14 00:03:50.159 --> 00:04:06.879 youths while tirelessly serving the township as a former member of both the zoning board and Springfield board of education where he kept Colorado school open. Together, 15 00:04:06.879 --> 00:04:22.240 both men served as exceptional ambassadors for our town through their selfishness and leadership. On behalf of the Springfield, we extend our heartful thoughts and prayers to the family. As 16 00:04:22.240 --> 00:04:37.440 we take a moment to honor and remember these outstanding individuals, those of you who know Lou, I've been in town and they voted to close Caldwell. He ran for the board education and won 17 00:04:37.440 --> 00:04:53.520 and he got enough votes to keep it open and I commend him on that. And also Mike, there was no lacrosse program really in town until he put his own money up and 18 00:04:53.520 --> 00:05:08.639 pushed it in this town. So both families, thank you. >> Thank you. Very well said, Rich. 100%. Um before we go into exec, I want to make an announcement. On June 30th, the 19 00:05:08.639 --> 00:05:23.759 legislature passed the fiscal year 2027 budget and Springfield for the first time that I can recall was put was placed uh and was given an appropriation in the budget uh through the advocacy of uh our our representatives, Assemblyman 20 00:05:23.759 --> 00:05:40.000 Carney, uh Assemblyman Mccertie, uh as well as the Democratic members of the state senate. Uh we received uh $75,000 for uh recreation improvements to the pool. Um so that's that's that's you know good for us and we'll look to put 21 00:05:40.000 --> 00:05:55.039 that to work once the pool season is over. Um and I'm not going to delay this executive session any longer because our entire audience almost is waiting for it. Um so is there uh Madame Clerk, can we read the uh resolution? 22 00:05:55.039 --> 00:06:11.840 >> Resolution action >> 71426. Whereas article six of the open public meetings act provides that a public body may hold a close session and whereas the township committee will during this meeting enter into discussion of the following matters attorney client 23 00:06:11.840 --> 00:06:27.600 privilege and litigation. Whereas matters to be discussed in close session are to remain in the strictest of confidence by all township committee members in furtherance of their fiduciary duties to the township. Now therefore, be it resolved, matters 24 00:06:27.600 --> 00:06:43.199 discussed at this meeting will be released to the public when the reasons for discussing and acting upon them in close session no longer exists. May I have a motion? >> Motion. >> Second. >> We have a second. All in favor? >> I. 25 00:06:43.199 --> 01:17:54.000 >> We're enclosed. All right, welcome back. Thank you for those who waited. You soldiered on. Thank you. Uh we have public comment on agenda items only. Okay, we're going to close public comment on agenda items only. Mr. 26 01:17:54.000 --> 01:18:10.560 Bicolo, administrator's report, followed by Mr. Spanelli. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Uh, a few things I want to touch on. We've got tenative schedule from PSC for road work. Oh, sorry. Great work, Tamara. 27 01:18:10.560 --> 01:18:26.640 >> Thank you, Tamara. Um, tenative schedule from PSCG for something in Springfield Avenue. They're doing work on roadway. That's September I'm sorry, July 15th, 16th. Uh Wednesday, July 15th, they're going to 28 01:18:26.640 --> 01:18:44.719 do milling from 8 to 1 on Myel A. Um Summit Street noon to 4. They're going to be doing work on milling on that. Thursday the 16th, Summit again, they're milling 8 to 5. 29 01:18:44.719 --> 01:19:01.360 They're going to be working. So that's from PSCG work they're doing. I want to touch on a few other things. We had a question on line striping on the crosswalks. Because of the cost of it, we have to go out and get bids. So we're out waiting on final quotes for the four major intersections. 30 01:19:01.360 --> 01:19:17.840 Mountain Shun Pike, Mountain Hillside, Hillside, South Springfield, and Myal Miltown. Uh the recycling center. I want to remind everybody that please do not dump things up there that do not belong. that center is monitored 247 by camera 31 01:19:17.840 --> 01:19:34.000 and you will get a fine for it. Uh touching on the July 3rd storm, I know you did mention that, Mr. Mayor, but I just want to touch a few things on that. DPW had all the roads completely open within 24 hours. We we removed all hanging branches and repaired all 32 01:19:34.000 --> 01:19:50.800 roadside trees within 48 hours. We did lose four trees in that storm. We're halfway through the 13 parks cleaning up debris and checking for any further tree damage. We had no damage to public property or township equipment related to the storm. We're out now on the 33 01:19:50.800 --> 01:20:06.880 curbside storm debris. And again, just to go over what we will and will not take. Collection is limited to storm damage only. Debris must not exceed 5t in length or 10 feet in diameter. Contractors cannot put work uh shrubs 34 01:20:06.880 --> 01:20:21.760 out that they've taken out, anything like that. Uh debris must be placed at the curb no later than Sunday, July 19th. We're going to start canvasing on the 7th. And we do not schedule specific areas. So, we will get to the entire 35 01:20:21.760 --> 01:20:37.120 town, but in a sequence, I cannot tell you. Uh brush placed after the 19th will not be taken away. Remember, please don't block up the storm inlets. I wanted to talk briefly about our salt dome. 36 01:20:37.120 --> 01:20:53.199 I will show you briefly where we are speaking of. I think everybody knows this is over on Edison Place, but just so everyone can see, here's our lot. Yep. Salt is going to go back in here. 37 01:20:53.199 --> 01:21:09.280 We're in the process now getting prices to clear, level the lot, and then we got to look at paving. I've also met with Atlantic Federal because our lot is we come in here. That's a kind of a dangerous spot in order to enter and exit. We're asking them for an easement 38 01:21:09.280 --> 01:21:26.400 so we can enter over here. It's a much safer area to enter from. So, I'll keep you informed when we get all of the details further on that. I wanted to speak to you briefly about Oakland Park. Thursday morning, uh the contractor will 39 01:21:26.400 --> 01:21:40.640 be there with one of his foremen to start laying out what has to be done and the work will begin sometime next week. And I have impressed upon them not only on the purchase order that time is of the essence, we lose our funding 40 01:21:40.640 --> 01:21:56.719 September 1st. So they're fully aware, >> they're fully aware that it has to be done by September 1st. And I sent a follow-up email Monday because the county sent us another note that there will be no extension. So I don't think I 41 01:21:56.719 --> 01:22:12.239 could be any clearer unless I go down there and pound them. >> I want to make sure >> they are fully aware that this has got to be done by September 1st. So I don't know how to make it any clearer to them. Duffy's lot we're in the process right 42 01:22:12.239 --> 01:22:28.880 now of trying to get We want to replace the pipe that runs along the back. We've got our our permits from DP, but we've got to get easement agreements to go on the couple of lots that are in the back there to rip the pipe out and put a new pipe in. So, our township attorney is 43 01:22:28.880 --> 01:22:45.199 working on that with a couple of owners of the lots to get those easements done. So, we'll keep you a breast of what's happening there. But, Duffy's lot, realistically, we're looking next year. Okay. >> There won't be a whole lot done this year probably. Um, other than that, I don't know if there's anything else or 44 01:22:45.199 --> 01:23:01.040 anyone has any questions. >> I do. >> You want to go first? >> Why don't we do the lines ourselves? >> That's my question. >> What >> one? >> We used to >> Well, I will I will ask Mr. Ber that that's a question for him. I know he's 45 01:23:01.040 --> 01:23:17.280 got a valid reason for not doing them. I mean, I'm just saying because we used years ago, they used to hire college kids >> during the summer, whatever they pay, and they used to do the lines. I realize insuranceances have changed and all that. 46 01:23:17.280 --> 01:23:33.280 >> I think it's more of an issue of quality and safety quite frankly. >> But let me let me talk to him and I'll come back to you. >> I'm I'm with Rich. One of my qu question number one was it's probably cheaper to buy a line striping machine and just stripe them ourselves. That way we can stripe the whole town. >> We do have one. Oh, 47 01:23:33.280 --> 01:23:47.920 >> but I but I think we've had some issues. So, let me check that and get back to you please. >> Number two, salt dome done by winter. >> Yes. >> Okay. Number three, I will verify with John. Oakland Park. 48 01:23:47.920 --> 01:24:04.159 This guy, this place says that they will have this thing done in time. There's been emails sent stressing, you know, I I guess that what we have on our side is that this is going to be more of a sitting park than a recreation 49 01:24:04.159 --> 01:24:20.400 park. Um, and the last thing I have is that I had a lengthy conversation with the county about Myisel, the fountain or the the lack of fountain, the air raator that is turned up. 50 01:24:20.400 --> 01:24:37.239 Um, it's my understanding from the county and it's the county's understanding, but they were not 100% certain that we don't have a fountain like no Mheaggan would have because the pond at Meiselle is too shallow. 51 01:24:38.080 --> 01:24:54.719 They're going to work on it for us if it is even possible. But for right now, the air raator will be repaired and it will be a faux fountain if that's what it is. They'll turn it up and and get the fountain effect from the air raator, but uh they have to replace 52 01:24:54.719 --> 01:25:12.320 the electric line because a tree during the storm fell and knocked out the power to the fountain. >> There you go. >> Thank you. >> That conclude >> That concludes my report. Mr. Spanelli, >> am I on? I'm on. >> You're on. 53 01:25:12.320 --> 01:25:28.320 >> Uh thank you everyone. Thank you, Mayor. First, I want to thank everyone who was involved with the 250th events that we had all year. They were fantastic. Everyone seemed to have a really enjoyable time. And from the library to this committee to everyone who helped in 54 01:25:28.320 --> 01:25:44.320 the back office of town hall and even the people that aren't involved and aren't here, I want to thank each and every one of you. And Fourth of July, for a lack of a better phrase, went off with a bang. It was phenomenal. Uh I know you were there. Come on. >> Over 2,000 people. >> Yeah. Yeah. beautifully done, well 55 01:25:44.320 --> 01:26:00.239 handled. And again, I'm going to give full credit to Jennifer Law for that. She deserves it. >> She worked really hard on it, and it's because of her that everything went as smoothly as it did. And I will also give that to Scott Sidell as well. >> Thank you to both of them. Uh my report tonight goes over both the business 56 01:26:00.239 --> 01:26:15.840 improvement district and the public information. So, it's going to be intertwined. So, stick with me on what it is. First and foremost, this one is for our deputy mayor. We are working on the streetscape as we speak. The bid has been speaking to Adam who is involved with getting us the rendering. We shall 57 01:26:15.840 --> 01:26:32.480 have it soon enough. I was on the phone with him today. That will include the around the area of the park which is on the side of South Springfield where the strip mall is and also across from that where the Shell station is. We're talking about doing eight uh 8 ft over there as well. So, uh all these will 58 01:26:32.480 --> 01:26:48.080 help keep the area looking nicely. Uh, I would like to talk to the committee at one point if we could about possibly getting the county in to maybe look at the lines over on Mountain in that area because it looks like the crosswalks in there could use a little bit of TLC. So, maybe we could have a conversation about that because if we're going to have that 59 01:26:48.080 --> 01:27:03.679 park there in the traffic that we're looking for, hopefully we can possibly have that done as well. Uh, fall festival October 18th, we had meetings about this. We're getting everything together. It's looking bigger and better than ever. And I don't mean that to just say that. I mean, this is going to be 60 01:27:03.679 --> 01:27:20.719 twice the size. We've got recreation behind us and I want to thank Adam for getting involved in that from recreation and Scott and Jen again. Um, and again, mayor, thank you for coming in with that as well. This will be a large large event that we are going to have recreation bringing in their costume 61 01:27:20.719 --> 01:27:37.679 contest. Uh, and again, I have to say, deputy mayor, thank you as well. You your suggestions have been well taken and we're we're making this what you guys have spoken about. So, thank you all. Uh, look for it. Look for the flyers coming out soon and hope to see everybody from Springfield and the surrounding areas there. Uh the bid 62 01:27:37.679 --> 01:27:54.320 marketplace has been talked about for a while. It's finally out. Tomorrow morning you'll be able to use the QR codes and go right onto the bid marketplace. And what it is is a place for all 1,700 businesses in the township to be able to market themselves as we are allowing them to put whatever they 63 01:27:54.320 --> 01:28:10.320 want on there for marketing. It also allows you to get deals on there by using the QR code. You scan it. You choose a a deal that you want to have. If you want to go to we'll use Halo Roers for instance, you can pick the deal from there. You can go up to the register. You'll be able to show your deal to the register and be able to get 64 01:28:10.320 --> 01:28:26.000 that deal and you can also get reward points as well. All will be explained. We'll have videos. We'll have, you know, things on the website that'll be able to show you. So, look for that. We are going to have >> Can you go to senior citizens and explain that to them? >> So, what we're going to do is we are going to explain it to the senior citizens. We're going to do that, but 65 01:28:26.000 --> 01:28:41.199 we're also coming up with a program separately for them cuz we know not all of them have cell phones and want to utilize that. We're going to probably come up with like a gold card program where they'll be able to show that gold card and be able to get the same thing. We never want to leave anybody out of the programs that we're doing. That was one of the bigger things we brought up. 66 01:28:41.199 --> 01:28:56.159 Thank you for bringing that up though. Uh again, I know you brought up the event that's coming up on the 23rd. So, we have that. Uh when we're done with that one, we'll probably be announcing another one that we'll be having toward the beginning of the school year because, and I'll now get into this, we're going to have a drawing of three 67 01:28:56.159 --> 01:29:13.760 winners. When you register on the program, it will randomly pick as of August 15th. It will pick three random people who are registered in that span of time from July 15th to August 15th. Those three people will get the first prize is $1,000 cash, second one is $500 68 01:29:13.760 --> 01:29:30.560 cash, and the third one is $250 cash. So, keep your eyes open for that. And those are for people that will register. It's a free registration for the marketplace. All residents are allowed to register. So, hopefully we'll get as many people as possible. We're also going to do, and this one is for you. I guess I'm just going down to each one. 69 01:29:30.560 --> 01:29:47.120 We're going to be doing our spend 25, get $10 off as everybody's wanted to. When you register on that program or if you have the card, you'll be able to spend 25, you get $10 off. So, you're actually spending 15. So, we will be bringing that out. That'll also start as of tomorrow. We will have that. We'll be 70 01:29:47.120 --> 01:30:03.040 putting out all the businesses that are involved. All 40 businesses will be on the list to show the people who they are and then they can go out and purchase. Again, one per person. Um, as again, supplies last. Now, something else we're going to be adding into the program. We're going to be doing what a lot of 71 01:30:03.040 --> 01:30:18.000 other towns have been doing, and I got to speak to Adam about this today, the scarecrow program. Every town has done it. We're now going to join the group. We're going to be doing the scarecrows for Halloween where we're going to get hay bales and and and the the crosses to be able to give to the small businesses to have them get involved. Residents can 72 01:30:18.000 --> 01:30:34.159 also get involved. They will be able to vote for who they want, which scarecrow they like, whether it's a resident, a family, or a small business. And at the end, we'll be announcing who wins those. We'll be putting them on the polls. >> Resident will be like, if I love Halloween and I want to make a scarecrow, I can make a >> We'll drop it off to your house. We will 73 01:30:34.159 --> 01:30:49.440 drop off. Go ahead. >> You drop the stuff off at his house. >> Yes. And just say he has young kids. >> Uhhuh. >> Go put it on the poll. You'll go to the polls and judge it. >> We'll put them on the polls. Actually, we don't want them putting them on the polls. We will put them on the polls for safety reasons. They'll have a number 74 01:30:49.440 --> 01:31:05.760 hanging from them and anybody can vote. We'll have it on Facebook so people can vote online. Okay. But we will be the ones, and I did this elsewhere. We will be the ones bringing the hay bales, picking them up because I want to be able to zip tie them to the polls properly and make sure DPW sees it for safety reasons since it will be on Mountain Avenue. 75 01:31:05.760 --> 01:31:21.760 >> Say again. >> Recreation. Yes, we'll have every all supplies will be a recreation. All small businesses. I'll be able to drop it off to the small businesses if they want to get involved. I'll drop it off personally to them. Uh and the last and finally, we have the grant program right now that's going on for small businesses that are doing updates to their building 76 01:31:21.760 --> 01:31:38.480 or new small businesses. We're doing five as of now signs, summer signs and summer awnings. So, if you're a small business in town, we've sent an email blast out, but if you're hearing us now, please go on to our website. It's a basicformational application. You do have to go through the process through 77 01:31:38.480 --> 01:31:53.440 the building department and make sure that you're approved first. Once you're approved, you pay the invoice. We will then the bid will pay for $2,500 toward a sign or an awning with a small business in town. >> Nice. >> And that completes my report. Any questions? Anything 78 01:31:53.440 --> 01:32:10.000 >> to get approved by? >> Everything has to be approved by building before we even start to do anything. Has to be approved and then the invoice has to be a paid invoice. We will then bring it into the the board and the board will then elect on it. Thank you, Jay. Thank you. Um, all right, moving on to Alex's uh second 79 01:32:10.000 --> 01:32:25.120 favorite part of the meeting. Uh, there are no minutes, so I'm sorry we rob you of that, Alex. I'm very sorry. >> Just vacations. >> Wow. >> Uh, moving on to new business ordinances on second reading. Madame clerk. 80 01:32:25.120 --> 01:32:44.159 >> Okay. Ordinance 202613. This ordinance amends the land use provisions at chapter 35 of the township code within section 35-10.1. Amendments to zoning map to reszone the rear portion of the property located at 81 01:32:44.159 --> 01:33:01.440 171 Route 22 eastbound block 3703 lot 1 from the general industrial I-40 zone district to the highway commercial H-Zone district. 82 01:33:01.440 --> 01:33:16.960 I'll make a motion to adopt ordinance uh 2026-13 as read by madame clerk with the publication on the township website on July 16th, 2026. >> Second. >> All right. Public hearing for ordinance 83 01:33:16.960 --> 01:33:34.639 202613 is now open. If anybody would like to speak on ordinance 202613, now is your time. >> This is just specifically for the Kia deal. >> Auto land, >> right? >> Oh, yeah. This is auto land. Autoland's going to be opening up a Kia section and this is just opening up some land so 84 01:33:34.639 --> 01:33:49.600 they can have a Kia section now. >> Actually had their their lot actually has two zones on the one lot. >> So we're just combining it and putting that under one zone. >> Okay, there you go. All right. Seeing nobody from the public who wants to 85 01:33:49.600 --> 01:34:05.760 comment on 202613, I will close the public hearing. >> Uh Madame Clerk, can you please call the role? >> Sure. Deputy Mayor Kaiser. Yes. >> Committeeman Yuber. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Capid. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Weber. >> Yes. >> Mayor Laugher. 86 01:34:05.760 --> 01:34:20.080 >> Yes. >> Ordinance 202614. This ordinance amends the land use provision set forth in chapter 35 the township code by permitting car washes as a conditional use within the highway 87 01:34:20.080 --> 01:34:37.440 commercial HDC zone district pursuant to section 35-41. conditional uses, thereby amending appendix A, schedule of zoning limitations of chapter 35 to include car 88 01:34:37.440 --> 01:34:53.040 washes. Am I reading this right? As a permitted conditional use within the highway commercial zone district, establishing specific conditional use standards for car washes within section 35-41.2, 89 01:34:53.040 --> 01:35:10.080 two specific requirements and adding a definition of a car wash within section 35-7 definitions. >> Way to soldier through that bad microphone. >> I'll make I'll make a motion to uh adopt ordinance 2026-14 as read by madam clerk 90 01:35:10.080 --> 01:35:27.360 with publication on the township website on July 16, 2026. >> All right. Uh I'm going to open public uh hearing on ordinance 202614. Um, public comment is now open. 91 01:35:27.360 --> 01:35:44.719 I am going to close public comment. This is for the car wash that's looking to go on uh by uh Nissan where they're where there's currently >> for purpose, right? >> Uh, no, I believe it's it's it's it's for public. >> Yeah, they they are selling the lot. 92 01:35:44.719 --> 01:35:59.520 >> They're selling the lot. That is correct. Um, all right. All in favor, Madame Clerk. Uh, Deputy Mayor Kaiser, >> yes. >> Committeeman Huber, >> yes. >> Committeeman Capid, >> yes. >> Committeeman Weber, >> yes. >> Mayor Laer, 93 01:35:59.520 --> 01:36:14.639 >> yes. >> All right. We have no ordinances on first. >> We We have no ordinances on first reading. >> Um, possibly later. >> Okay. Okay. >> Um, we have no ordinances on first 94 01:36:14.639 --> 01:36:31.520 reading. We're now uh moved on to resolutions. If you would like a resolution pulled, please say so. Resolution 2026 203, 2026 204 2026 205 95 01:36:31.520 --> 01:36:48.480 2026 206 2026 207 2026 208 2026 209 2026 210 2026 211 96 01:36:48.480 --> 01:37:06.560 2026 212 2026 6 213 2026 214 2026 215 uh pull 2026 215 97 01:37:06.560 --> 01:37:23.920 >> Okay, we're going to pull 2026 215. Madame clerk. >> Oh, we need a mo we need a motion. Sorry. Yeah, we need a motion. Motion to uh >> Oh, okay. You you >> Yeah. You uh All right. I'll make a 98 01:37:23.920 --> 01:37:39.040 motion to adopt the following resolutions by consent agenda. Resolution 2026-203 through resolution 2026-214. >> Second, >> Madam Clerk. >> Okay. Deputy Mayor Kaiser. >> Yes. 99 01:37:39.040 --> 01:37:55.920 >> Committeeman Yuber. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Capid. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Weber. >> Yes. >> Mayor Alfur. >> Yes. >> Okay. Resolution 2026 215. This resolution finds that 100 01:37:55.920 --> 01:38:11.360 Springfield Urban Renewal Corp. The redeveloper of property loc located located at block 706 lot 10 in the township is in default of the redevelopment agreement with the township and authorizes termination of 101 01:38:11.360 --> 01:38:29.280 the township's redevelopment agreement and financial agreement with the Springfield Urban Renewal Corporation. >> Yes, Mr. Mayor. Uh, as you are aware, I pulled this because uh, this is a very nuanced resolution 102 01:38:29.280 --> 01:38:46.320 um, that is on the agenda for township committee's uh, consideration tonight. Um, along with Mr. Dow, I have asked our redevelopment attorney, Mr. Tran, uh, to be present for this meeting and and I appreciate him making the time to be here. Um, wondering for the benefit of 103 01:38:46.320 --> 01:39:02.239 the township committee as as well as the general public if uh, Mr. track would just like to summarize for us and the general public again what this uh resolution is doing the situation that we are in and just give us an overview 104 01:39:02.239 --> 01:39:19.679 if you wouldn't mind of uh of of what the uh anticipus of this uh this uh resolution is about. You can stand there if you'd like to take a seat. You could sit there as well whatever you're more comfortable with. >> Just yeah, please the mic because we want everybody to hear this thing. Hit 105 01:39:19.679 --> 01:39:36.159 the button and it'll turn green. There you go. It's >> gone. No, no, it's off. >> And pull it as close to you as possible because you won't hear from you. You got to It's got to be close. >> Okay, there you go. >> Good. Uh, good evening, uh, mayor and council committee persons. Thank you for, uh, inviting me and allowing me to 106 01:39:36.159 --> 01:39:53.840 provide a quick overview. Um, my name is Richard Tran, Tran Isabelle, Sadikian, and Shadanian, and, uh, I've been honored to serve as redevelopment council since this project. um started to have numerous issues. And as set 107 01:39:53.840 --> 01:40:09.360 forth in the resolution, which will obviously be a public record in in a few minutes, the uh township attorney will read uh the very last couple paragraphs that clarify a few uh of the quote action items that are going to occur. 108 01:40:09.360 --> 01:40:26.400 This project has been fully approved and subject to full permits and whatnot. As you know, it's about 140 uh units that are approved with 30,000 square ft of commercial uh and parking. And it was approved in December of 2015. So, we in 109 01:40:26.400 --> 01:40:45.119 our 11th year. The actual designation of this spot for redevelopment goes back to 2006. So, we're 20 years since you designated that this site, which is obviously right at the heart of of this township, uh be redeveloped. And um as 110 01:40:45.119 --> 01:41:01.600 has been said by by many people, the the construction official, the township engineer, uh the code official, the municipal court, everyone within the town has been involved in attempting uh to assist and facilitate so this project 111 01:41:01.600 --> 01:41:17.760 could be done so that the affordable units that are part and parcel of the approvals and your township uh ordinances be implemented uh and that people be able to live there. The whole point is not just to approve it, but to get it with a a occupancy so that 112 01:41:17.760 --> 01:41:33.280 families and and people can grow up and and and live in this great community, which again, this project is uniquely situated within 100 ft of an elementary school. I mean, you can't pick a better site in terms of location, location, location. So what the resolution points 113 01:41:33.280 --> 01:41:49.119 out and which has been a subject of a tremendous amount of effort um is that there's 67 notices that have been given to this uh redeveloper of deficiencies. Uh they have occurred in every sense of it and and I want to point out just one 114 01:41:49.119 --> 01:42:05.119 of of many is that the appellet division of the state of New Jersey has upheld the fines and the fines have been paid $67,500. There are still notwithstanding that 21 summones that are pending. Trials have 115 01:42:05.119 --> 01:42:21.600 begun and those are pending before the Springfield Municipal Court in August. So basically what this ordinance does and and and the other key factor that has is part of the redevelopment agreement is this project was supposed to be completed within 30 months. That's 116 01:42:21.600 --> 01:42:38.159 2 and 1/2 years of when all the the uh final governmental approvals were provided and that was before CO and we all know CO uh was in March of 2020. There have also been a number of uh safety issues here uh between 117 01:42:38.159 --> 01:42:54.639 electricity and and wires between a power pole that fell. You all know this because you live here and you see it every every day and every week and hear about it. But um this has not been um a gotcha moment by any stretch. This has 118 01:42:54.639 --> 01:43:13.040 been a uh an arduous torturous process. Uh the developer has sued us. The developer has appealed. The developer has attempted and and exercised every remedy to delay uh and not to get this project done. There is a point when the 119 01:43:13.040 --> 01:43:29.360 superior court appointed an independent construction manager. We would meet in the conference room every single month to talk about okay and that was two years ago and we had a series of probably 14 meetings where the first and last question was what's going to happen 120 01:43:29.360 --> 01:43:45.920 to get this project done in the next get keep this project moving. Um again um has there been quote uh start and stop progress? Yes. I remember when I started there was a hair salon on it. I've never seen a redevelopment project with a hair salon uh on it and that had no 121 01:43:45.920 --> 01:44:02.239 electricity, no safety. And finally, after we went to court numerous times, uh the presiding judge said that has to come down there. There's just no reason uh for that to be there. So, this resolution basically lays it out. It's 122 01:44:02.239 --> 01:44:17.679 17 pages. Uh, I welcome anyone. You know, we have all of the notices and the backup um exist uh and have been provided uh and and I I would yield to the township attorney to read the uh 123 01:44:17.679 --> 01:44:38.560 amended language uh that is proposed for the end of the resolution. >> Thank you, Rich. Good evening, Mayor. So the the only changes to the resolution um as previously distributed and the the new updated version is being 124 01:44:38.560 --> 01:44:54.960 distributed now is on the very final page where the therefore clauses um exist. So the I'll read off the now therefore clauses. Now therefore, be it resolved by the township committee of the township of Springfield that based upon the foregoing facts and circumstances, the township finds that 125 01:44:54.960 --> 01:45:12.080 the redeveloper has defaulted and is in breach of the redevelopment agreement for failure, among other things, to timely complete the project. And it is further resolved that if the redeveloper fails to cure the breaches as set forth here and above within 30 days of receipt of a copy of this resolution, then the 126 01:45:12.080 --> 01:45:28.320 redevelopment agreement and the financial agreement with the redeveloper shall be deemed to be terminated and the township reserves any and all rights and remedies available to it under existing law. And it is further resolved that this resolution shall be effective immediately. I will note that there was 127 01:45:28.320 --> 01:45:44.560 uh the date of adoption uh inadvertently indicated unless it was corrected >> um June 23rd I think but it should reading July 14th of course in the final version. >> Yep. >> That edit will need to be made. Yeah. >> Other than that 128 01:45:44.560 --> 01:46:00.880 >> sure that people know that he has been paying he has been paying taxes on the land right am I correct? He has. >> He has. >> Yes. >> Yes. I don't you know we have been collecting some taxes on it. 129 01:46:00.880 --> 01:46:18.080 >> Not on the building, on the land itself. >> Can't get it on the building because it's not occupied. Am I correct, Richard? >> That's my understanding. >> That's correct. >> People understand that. Rich, before we go a little bit further and before we go 130 01:46:18.080 --> 01:46:34.880 into this, just because these are the certain questions that we're going to face and and and people are going to ask, you know, why now? and and is this at the end of the road for this? Can you tell us or and the people out 131 01:46:34.880 --> 01:46:52.880 there listening right now, um what's the next steps and how much we've tried to make this work and and are we at the end of the road with this at this point? Um, so difficult because again I'm sure 132 01:46:52.880 --> 01:47:07.520 nobody if you were sitting there 11 years ago would have thought it could possibly have taken this long. So um I can't predict the future or else I wouldn't be here. So what I what I would say is um the record is clear and 133 01:47:07.520 --> 01:47:25.760 unequivocal. the um accommodations uh the flexibility and and when I use the word flexibility I mean the service that your professionals have provided to try to assist uh to get this project done has been more than than frankly I'm 134 01:47:25.760 --> 01:47:43.679 again I I I yield to the professionals and and certainly to the township manager but those resources haven't been put into any other project that that I can imagine including projects that have gone up a lot quicker er literally you know half a mile from here uh you know 135 01:47:43.679 --> 01:47:59.440 on the Sax Avenue site. So short answer is you've done everything humanly possible and without taking action there's no end in sight. So where that takes us and what that causes to occur um I can't predict other than that the 136 01:47:59.440 --> 01:48:15.119 record is been made um and it's not just been made before but before this before your residents and before you but before the courts and and the appellet division has affirmed that. So uh frankly um this 137 01:48:15.119 --> 01:48:31.520 path has not been taken lightly and and um um it is it is difficult to conceive of why there is not the attention being paid to this site uh by the developer. 138 01:48:31.520 --> 01:48:47.360 It's impossible and there's no excuse that's been given. Um including in a pleading that was filed yesterday. They claim surprise that there is still more work yet um it the record the pictures uh and the condition is is clear. 139 01:48:47.360 --> 01:49:05.360 >> That was the exact information I was looking for. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Alex Chris, do you have anything to add? >> No. just to drive home the point that I think we've been driving home uh as all 140 01:49:05.360 --> 01:49:22.880 of us up here uh for nearly eight years um at least majority of us that uh our downtown redevelopment has been a priority number one. Um up here uh a lot of us did not approve this project. Um, 141 01:49:22.880 --> 01:49:40.960 we take much pride in a lot of the projects going forward in our downtown and and our town. And we're very proud of the work that this administration has done and continues to do every single day. Uh, uh, to basically get a downtown 142 01:49:40.960 --> 01:49:58.320 that we are all proud of. Uh, this building was approved before us, but that doesn't mean that we aren't going to get it done and get it done, but done right. And up until this point, uh, uh, we can't continue to reward bad behavior. And we are taking all 143 01:49:58.320 --> 01:50:15.840 necessary steps to ensure that it's done correctly and something that we can all be proud of. 140 units, uh, 21 of which, uh, are helping or what we hope to meet our goal of affordable housing has not been done in 12 years. I don't know if 144 01:50:15.840 --> 01:50:31.600 there's another development project uh when you drive around the rest of Union County and and neighboring communities that a development can't get done in 12 years. They go up very quickly. A lot of them look great and and and continue to 145 01:50:31.600 --> 01:50:48.239 make uh uh downtowns around uh our state something to be proud of. But 12 years is unacceptable when the project was supposed to be completed in two and a half years. That's staggering. that we're still up here discussing this and 146 01:50:48.239 --> 01:51:04.480 it's completely frustrating uh uh meeting after meeting year after year that this that that this is not getting done and it's not not getting done. It's just not getting done right. It's not getting done in a livable way. 147 01:51:04.480 --> 01:51:19.360 So I I I I think that we're all up here and trying our best to do it and and and I think at a certain point we have reached our end goal of trying to reward bad behavior. And I think this meets >> I don't want you to forget though your 148 01:51:19.360 --> 01:51:37.360 point that you made in executive where he's held up affordable housing at this point now for people who who need it. >> Yes. That's for one units of trying to meet uh uh uh >> of our obligations and providing for uh 149 01:51:37.360 --> 01:51:53.280 right teacher salaries, fire salaries, police salaries, public servants, the the uh young families. That's what's meeting our moderate income level uh uh to serve here. needed housing in our community that is not getting done 150 01:51:53.280 --> 01:52:10.480 because somebody decides to sit on a project for 12 12 years. 12 years is a long time. >> Take notice if anybody from the state is watching. We've tried to get this thing built so you can have your affordable housing and everything else. >> Um 67 notices is just staggering. I 151 01:52:10.480 --> 01:52:26.880 don't know if there's a comparable site in our town that gets 67 notices. We've won that. We can't hammer that home enough. This guy, we are winning, right? Every battle that we take. Uh uh we are winning and trying to compel him to do 152 01:52:26.880 --> 01:52:44.080 the right thing. Um with this enough is enough. I I I'll proudly vote for this resolution today. >> I just want to add if it's okay, mayor, don't forget the whole purpose of redevelopment is to be the spark plug, the anchor. If you can't get the main part, if you can't get the fire started, 153 01:52:44.080 --> 01:53:00.400 you know, think about all the private investment. Think about the 250 plus people who would live there who would, you know, frequent your businesses and and, you know, be, you know, productive members of your community. So, it's a it's a failure. 154 01:53:00.400 --> 01:53:16.639 It's it's a clear failure by the redeveloper. And and so I I I your your patience, your st your people's willingness to work with them should not be overlooked. This is not somebody who's playing gotcha. Certainly not the 155 01:53:16.639 --> 01:53:34.480 township. This is un it's inconceivable without any excuse or justification. And again, as you sit here now, you look at the facade and you say, "Okay, so why aren't they doing punch list twist items? And why aren't there crews out there day in and day out?" You know, and and you don't get an answer. Uh it's 156 01:53:34.480 --> 01:53:52.400 it's it's it's not for a failure in any way, shape, or form or by any action by the township. and and and in this just to drive home there's been I think two other projects yeah two or three other projects completed that we have approved after 157 01:53:52.400 --> 01:54:09.679 this uh uh December of 2015 completed done rented out fully. So that should drive it home that this is not a Springfield right this is this is a single developer who is failing to meet the moment >> Metropolitan was double the size. 158 01:54:09.679 --> 01:54:24.159 >> Yes, >> double the size. couple times. >> There's your proof, >> right? And and uh Garden Homes had it completed, John, in how long? >> That was I believe that was maybe two years, but that's not only done. It's it's fully rented. >> Two years fully rented from from tearing 159 01:54:24.159 --> 01:54:40.080 sacks down to building an entire new complex of 300 plus units within two years. >> Several amenities, by the way. >> Yeah. Like like let I just want to be clear. Several amenities and retail. And my and I know I'm talking a lot, but my final 160 01:54:40.080 --> 01:54:57.199 I promise my final say on this is that you know unfortunately this was inherited back from you said 2006 and we're just trying to make the best of what 161 01:54:57.199 --> 01:55:13.760 we got stuck with on this from him. So I I I heard something today that I don't think I I heard the original proposal for this was in 2006. So this project has been in the hopper 162 01:55:13.760 --> 01:55:30.800 for 20 years. >> 20 years is ago is when you designated as an area >> when we when we designated this as an area need of redevelopment. We did this 20 years. So in in one year's time, this project will be old enough to drink. Um, 163 01:55:30.800 --> 01:55:48.080 and the thought of the amount of work that can get done in 20 years is staggering. Um, I want to commend Rich. I want to commend Mike. I want to commend Anthony, John, every professional that's been 164 01:55:48.080 --> 01:56:03.520 involved here. I know I sound like a broken record, but you know, we've we have tried the carrot in stick and carrot and it is a time and and I also want to give a shout out to Committeeman Capid who's been uh instrumental in 165 01:56:03.520 --> 01:56:22.159 getting this process going. Um, I this project is is turning into the topic of conversation wherever at I'm speaking for myself wherever I go in town. What's going on with this project? What's going on with 166 01:56:22.159 --> 01:56:39.040 this project? Um, and I finally now have an answer that I can support and be proud of. So for that uh is there a motion on resolution 2026? >> Motion >> 215. >> Huber. Is there a second? 167 01:56:39.040 --> 01:56:54.159 >> Second. >> Kaiser. Madame clerk. >> Committeeman Yuber. >> Yes. >> Deputy Mayor Kaiser. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Capidis. >> Um. Yes, Madam Clerk. And I and I beg the committee's indulgence for a second. 168 01:56:54.159 --> 01:57:11.440 I agree with everything that's been set up here. You know, our our families and our residents have lived with this construction site in the heart of our downtown for way too long. And I too am tired of getting the infamous question year after year after year. 169 01:57:11.440 --> 01:57:27.599 This has been going on with years of delays, safety concerns, court proceedings, and unfortunately, it's become an eyesore of our everyday life. Um, and unfortunately, as as we've set up here, it's been an eyes sore for the 170 01:57:27.599 --> 01:57:42.560 community. And throughout that time, I believe the township has been in good faith to move this project forward. You know, we've we've declared multiple defaults under this agreement. We have addressed safety 171 01:57:42.560 --> 01:57:58.800 concerns, court proceedings. I think Mr. Tran said something about 67 notices and we provided every reasonable opportunity for compliance. We've attempted to be good partners in this endeavor but every partnership depends 172 01:57:58.800 --> 01:58:15.280 on both parties to honor their commitments and I agree after an unexcusable number of years it's time for enforcement of this agreement. It's an unacceptable time frame for the to ask this community 173 01:58:15.280 --> 01:58:32.960 to wait. Our residents deserve a completed project, a downtown with businesses that we can support and enjoy and and everyone up here are residents too. We see this every day and we are frustrated and we also are very anxious to see this 174 01:58:32.960 --> 01:58:50.960 project completed. Now, I support enforcing this redevelopment agreement and moving this project forward and everyone's effort from our from our uh redevelopment attorney to our to our engineer to our township attorney up here to our our uh building inspectors 175 01:58:50.960 --> 01:59:07.440 and code enforcement officers and this is a monster project that we've been talking about it. But I cannot support and I will not support providing what I believe is another unnecessary 30-day extension after we've given them 176 01:59:07.440 --> 01:59:23.960 numerous opportunities to comply. And for that reason, I'm voting no. >> Committeeman Weber, >> yes. >> Mayor Laugher, >> yes. >> Okay. Resolution passes. 177 01:59:24.960 --> 01:59:39.840 >> All right. Moving on to discussion and action items. Uh, is there a motion to accept the resignation of Jodie Bergen as a member of the board of health? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Okay. All in favor? >> I >> I. 178 01:59:39.840 --> 01:59:56.480 >> Uh, also is there a motion to accept the appointments of Eric Dubo uh, health educator as a member of the board of health and myself as a member of the board of health? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. Now moving to Alex's favorite part of 179 01:59:56.480 --> 02:00:16.639 the meeting, finance. >> I have a question on that, but just move on. We'll we'll we'll make a motion uh to accept the payroll and invoices for the period of June 24th, 2026 through July 14, 2026 in the amount of 3,836 180 02:00:16.639 --> 02:00:35.840 uh,15458. >> Second. Deputy Mayor Kaiser. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Yuber. >> Yep. >> Committeeman Capid. >> Yes. >> Committeeman Weber. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Next is uh correspondence. Springfield 181 02:00:35.840 --> 02:00:52.960 Planning Board Meeting July 22nd, 6:30 p.m. uh regarding 2:30 Mountain Avenue, the Jeneral, great name, store to add additional 18 seats. Now, uh, finally, public comment on any 182 02:00:52.960 --> 02:01:12.719 governmental issue. Please come up. >> Wendy Jones, 158 Miltown Road, Springfield, New Jersey. Um, yeah, I, uh, while you were in executive session, I read the entire information about, uh, 183 02:01:12.719 --> 02:01:28.320 the Gomes project, and, um, not since Blee House have I read anything like that. So, um I uh actually think you were much too patient. 12 years is too long. [laughter] Okay. I'm glad that's over and we can get started on someone who's actually going to do get the work done. I know it 184 02:01:28.320 --> 02:01:42.159 was exhausting and upsetting and depressing. So, I'm glad that's over. Um now on May, you said that on May 27th you were going to be talking to the person who is going to be developing um I call it smug smugglers cove because that's what it was when we came here in 185 02:01:42.159 --> 02:01:59.760 1988. Um uh what's happened with that? Scotties. Scotty's >> Scotty's heard Smuggler's Cove. >> Yeah. Well, 88 >> took me a second. >> Yeah. Yeah. That that that was that was what stuck because that was what what it was when we came >> Cove. The only thing that's left on that 186 02:01:59.760 --> 02:02:18.159 is the financials to be addressed to see where we are as far as a pilot. >> Okay. Um >> so is there a specific question? Well, um I did some research on Springmill Manor and I know that's at 32 Blacks Lane and that's a 55 plus older person 187 02:02:18.159 --> 02:02:34.560 um uh building and um I was surprised to find out that the agreement that the township made was that the landlord could increase that now it's 20% of the 140 um uh no is 40 units. The 20% of of 188 02:02:34.560 --> 02:02:52.320 of the 40 units are subsidized. 80% are not. Um, but the 80% that are not, the rent hikes can be 8, 10, 12, any amount until 2034, which sounded rather ownorous to me. Um, I realized that 20% is subsidized, but the 80% um not all of 189 02:02:52.320 --> 02:03:08.239 them are wealthy people. I mean, I can see from from what I saw on the website that, you know, the people that they're focusing in on are the New Yorkers in my hometown who are uh fleeing the high rents in in uh Manhattan and need to commute, you know, back back to 190 02:03:08.239 --> 02:03:24.880 Manhattan. But that there's no cap on the 80% that aren't subsidized seems very very strange. So, I hope that you're not going to do that again with this uh this new development. And it just seems like too much, you know, for the people to bear. People over 55, not 191 02:03:24.880 --> 02:03:40.560 all of them are wealthy. I mean, if they were, they would have mansions somewhere. I doubt if they'd be coming to Springfield, right? And I doubt they'd still be working after 55. Right. Okay. So, that >> I would like to look into that. Yeah. >> I'm I'm not sure that's correct. Let me let me review that. Okay. I want to call 192 02:03:40.560 --> 02:03:57.199 our redevelopment attorney on that in the morning. >> Okay. Very good. Um Yeah, it's always good to check your research. And the last thing is very, you know, minor, but um now um [clears throat] my my life partner put out some leaf bags uh some time ago, and we're not sure why they 193 02:03:57.199 --> 02:04:13.119 weren't picked up. Now, some of them have some branches in them. This is not storm debris. This is a while back. So, we want to know when are they going to be picked up? Uh any idea? >> Was it from Not from the storm? >> Not from the storm. This is way before the storm. >> Leaf bags. [clears throat] 194 02:04:13.119 --> 02:04:28.480 >> Yeah, bags. You know, >> I bring mine over to you. have to bring them to the pool. >> You have to bring them to the pool. >> I bring mine. >> Oh, you don't pick them up. Okay. All right. We haven't had a had a car since 2024. >> Years ago, we used to pick them up. >> Okay. >> They stopped that. >> Okay. All right. All right. We'll get 195 02:04:28.480 --> 02:04:43.360 someone to help us up. Yeah, because we don't we don't have a car anymore. Okay. All right. Thanks a lot. >> Thank you, Miss Jones. >> Anybody else? Any member of the public wish to address township committee? Um, if not, I'm going to go ahead and close 196 02:04:43.360 --> 02:04:59.599 uh public comment. And madame clerk, one more executive session. As if one wasn't enough. >> Okay. Se resolution 71426B. Whereas article six of the open public meetings act provides that a public body 197 02:04:59.599 --> 02:05:15.920 may hold a closed session and whereas the township committee will during this meeting enter into discussion of the following matters. Attorney K client privilege and personnel. Whereas the matters to be discussed in close session are to remain in the strictest of 198 02:05:15.920 --> 02:05:32.080 confidence by all township committee members in furtherance of their fiduciary duties to the township. Now therefore, be it resolved matters discussed at this meeting will be released to the public when the reasons for discussing and acting upon them in 199 02:05:32.080 --> 02:05:49.440 close session no longer exist. Uh before we do that, and we're going to have to do another motion during public comment. I forgot to read uh an online submission by Michael Bartage. So, if everybody would indulge me, um would we see the 200 02:05:49.440 --> 02:06:06.560 crosswalks painted before the school year? The answer is we are out for quotes uh and it will be completed before school starts. Um, and the second was uh just a suggestion. When Robbie Bcher retires, a plaque should be 201 02:06:06.560 --> 02:06:23.119 mounted on the front of the DPW building, calling it the Robbie Bcher building. [laughter] Um, listen, man's been working on bad leg for how long? Worthy of consideration. Sorry. Can we have another motion to go in? 202 02:06:23.119 --> 02:53:18.560 >> Second. All in favor? Uh, we're closed. Are we will we be taking action? >> We may be taking action. You're back. >> M. Are we good? >> Is there a motion to adjurnn? 203 02:53:18.560 --> 02:53:29.160 >> Is there a motion to adjurnn? >> Motion to adjurnn. >> Motion to Cuber. Second to Kaiser. All in favor? I adjourn.