And the code has changed. Now you have to fix it a different way. >> Our team is to order. Clad the statement. >> Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided to the public in the press on
January 22nd, 2026 building in accordance with public act. Thank you. >> I'd like to salute the flag to the flag
of America to the standy for all. >> Roll call. Council member Fino >> here. >> Council member Holmes >> here. Council >> member Rudo >> here. >> He's in the bathroom.
>> President Higgins >> here. >> We wait for Brad. Okay. Will you the town will the township clerk please read the statement? >> We >> or we did that already. >> Okay. We have a presentation from animal
control. Would you like to just and just for the record, Councilman Sparta is back in session. >> Okay. >> I do apologize everybody. I lost my voice. Um hopefully this microphone is
not working. Um so bear with me here. Last week um was animal control um officer appreciation week which was from April 12th to through the 18th. Unfortunately, we had we canceled the meeting so we weren't able to do this on that week. Um I I want to just take a
moment tonight to to recognize a group of individuals who work whose work often happens quietly but those impact of our community is significant. our animal control officers and the dedicated staff who support them here in Burn Township.
Every day, these men and women are called upon to respond to situations that require not only skill and training, but also compassion and and sound judgment whether they are ensuring public safety, uh reuniting uh lost pets
with their with their families, which I know I called you guys, my own dog. um uh addressing concerns from residents or protecting animals that cannot speak for themselves. They perform their duties with professionalism and care. Please
join me in recognizing and thanking our animal control officers and staff. Chris Brham, uh Cigret, right? Okay. Also known as Sigi, Timothy Scott, uh Rachel Nestle, which I know
she's not here. uh and Linda Dixon um please for this an important work that they do every day. >> Thank you. >> There you go sir. And also I want to mention um the chief
and uh Sergeant Kamarus Sergeant Kavarus uh uh manages the animal control um every every day. So I appreciate I know you've done a fantastic job with with getting keeping that up and running. Chris, thank you very much. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you so much. >> Thank you so much. I appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you. If >> I can just say something real quick. Is that okay with everyone? >> Sure. >> So in 2018 we had a transition time where animal control was under a regular department head and 2019 when he left it
fell under the umbrella of the police department. So to say I'm always proud of all my employees. I'm especially proud of the animal control authorities and how hard they work every single day. Since 2019, we've grown. Uh we now do shared services for seven towns. We
bring in about 90,000 a year. Um it really helps to offset our costs. We have an awesome working relationship with all the other animal controls in our county. Uh we help each other out when we have large scale incidents like we had a major incident about two years ago where we had 90 plus dogs in a house and everybody just comes out of the
work, you know, out of the wallpaper just to help everybody. It's pretty pretty awesome to see that we give that back and they give it to us. So, um but thank you for everything you do every day. You really do a great job. So, thank you. >> Recent um nightmare with someone dropping off I think it was like 50
dogs. I think we took in what 10 12 dogs or something. >> 14 dogs. Yeah. And they're all been adopted. So, that's a good thing. >> So, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Sergeant Kamarus and his leadership for the past couple years. Yes. really has brought us to the next level and I'm very grateful for all the work you do over there in addition to all those
other everyday tasks. So, >> but thanks thank you for having us tonight. >> He's a man wears many hats, right? He does the IT, he does animal control and probably so many other things. I don't have any idea. >> That's right. More than we could count. >> Yeah, you just grab a picture. I
appreciate. Thanks, guys. It's the only way I get in the picture. Council, >> you want to step down? >> You guys want to step down? Take a picture. >> Trying to get out of the picture. >> He's trying to get out of the picture. >> Okay. All right. >> Thank you.
>> I need to bring I'm going to >> say thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you guys. You guys helped me out. So, thank you very much. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> Thank you for coming. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. >> Appreciate it. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Thanks a lot. >> Senior. Congratulations. Good. Good to see you, too. >> Well, thank you very much. Thank you
guys. >> Okay. You ready? Ah, thank you. I'm looking for that. Thank you. Absolutely. >> Thank you. >> Proclamation for autism. >> Yeah. So, um yes. Um is somebody reading
the proclamation >> for autism? Mayor, >> I don't have that proclamation. It's in our packet. >> Does somebody want to read that? >> Someone. Yeah. >> Really good speaking voice.
>> I'll read it. Carl will read it. >> Okay. I'll read it. >> Thank you. I appreciate my voice a little bit. >> Oh, this isn't on. Okay. >> Yeah, you'll have to to talk really loud. >> Okay. Proclamation designation of April
as autism month. Whereas autism spectrum disorders are a group of developmental disabilities characterized by atypical development in socialization, communication, and behavior which generally appear before 3 years of age and continue over a lifetime. And
whereas an estimated onethird of people with autism are unable to communicate verbally. And whereas approximately 2thirds of children with autism between the ages of 6 and 15 have been the victims of bullying. And whereas nearly
28% of eight-year-olds with an autism spectrum disorder have engaged in self-injurous behavior such as headbanging, armbiting, or skin scratching. And whereas almost half of those with autism have wandered or bolted from safety, and drowning
accounts for approximately 90% of deaths associated with wandering or bolting by children with autism aged 14 and younger. And whereas the lifetime cost of caring for a person with autism is estimated to be as great as 2.4 million.
And whereas although there is no known cure for autism, research suggests that early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the cost of lifetime care and improve outcomes for people with autism. And whereas according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more
than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. And one out of every 59 children born today will be diagnosed with autism. And whereas New Jersey has the highest rate of autism in the nation. And the prevalence of autism
in the state continues to exceed and outpace the rate of autism in other states. And whereas since the 1970s, National Autism Awareness Month has taken place annually in April to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism. And whereas
given the rapidly growing rate of autism spectrum disorders in New Jersey and the pressing need for early detection, it is altogether fitting and proper and within the public interest to designate April of each year as Autism Awareness Month in New Jersey and encourage and to
encourage the citizens of this state to join the observance of the month and raise awareness of autism spectrum disorders. Now therefore, be it resolved by the T Vernon Township Mayor and Council that April is recognized as National Autism Awareness Month in
Vernon Township, New Jersey. >> Thank you. >> Put it right here. Yes. >> Okay. The next item on the agenda is discussion of resolution 26165,
resolution requiring the mayor to submit 2026 employee census report to the council. Does anybody want to start the discussion? I'm just going to find the resolution myself.
um was muted. >> Well, I was muted. Sorry. the the the discussion on the census started with Sandy and she uh she she was saying that it's a good thing and we agreed to have information on the employees, the date they were hired, their salary, where
they started and where they are and their title and and it was a working document and that led to multiple discussions in public and three discussions behind the scenes that I was involved with that went nowhere. And I
realized on the last discussion it was that word census that was throwing everything off. There seems to be some legalities within the confines of what a census report is versus simply asking for the information. So I'm just here to say that the information is something we
should have. It's a very simple thing to get. I don't there was there was push back because people thought a census was something other than what it was. The board of education uses a document called the position control roster which is updated on a regular basis. It shows
that information. So if we can bring this to a head pretty quickly because I see it as a small issue then just rename it call it the position control roster. we should see it. And the the thing that we're looking for are abnormalities or
add-ons that weren't approved and the number of employees and and where they're coming from. It's pretty simple document. So that's my take on it. I think it's a small small issue that we spent a lot of time on already. >> Yeah, it's a very important document.
Um, and right in the resolution, we ask for certain categories, the name of the employee, the day to hire, the department they work in, part-time, full-time. We need that for salary ordinance. We needed it for the
budget. We all realized how important this is when you're looking at the budget. Um, so we're asking for a list. You can call it if census is tripping everybody up, call it whatever what Bill suggested, employee list. You can give
us all that information and every month update it in a memo saying so and so retired, so and so left, so so and so got a raise, all the update. You don't have to update the whole list. Just give
us new updates if that can be done. Um, I I have no problem with what you're suggesting, Bill. The only thing is we're given a copy census from 2019. There's precedent for it being called a census. I mean, it makes sense to call it a PCR. I don't
have any problem with that, but I mean, we're quite literally attached to the resolution is an example from seven years ago. So >> I think Patty can explain that the the problem with using the word census.
>> So I think what happened and it might have happened in 2019. I was not here and I'd have to double check the numbers. But the census was given to us from the insurance company for workers comp. So that's what was forwarded I believe last in 2019 the council. The
problem is is when they give it to you it's the salaries from the year before. And I think that's what's tripping it up because everybody's using the census >> and I think that's getting pulled. So I think that again nothing intentional it's just that we pulled the census here
it is but the census is because it's what came from the workers comp and it's salaries from the year before. So, I think we're just trying to come up with something that um we could just say, "Okay, fine. These are the salaries of now." And then I had conversations with
people, you know, mayor and saying maybe we could just do a memo once a month that says there's no change like new hires none. uh you know and just kind of leave it very basic, you know, uh retirement and just keep it to instead of recreating the form over and over and
over again and just kind of so again we did nothing whatever you just get a report that says none instead of giving you a re printing out paper to just give you something for no changes. >> Yeah, but we would still maintain a list like this internally and call it a PCR.
Well, I what I was recommending is just once a year doing like a full one and then throughout the year just do a memo. >> So, we would have to update the list on our own. Um, >> yes. >> Yes. And >> make changes.
>> Yeah. And I mean, and kind of it would be good because otherwise it kind of will show you within the year what's the actual changes because if we just keep giving you the list over and over again. I mean, it was just a suggestion >> I brought up.
>> I I think um I mean, a memo would be helpful, but if we just maintain the list as it changes, it would also make sense. I mean, if it's just a matter of adding an employee or something on a spreadsheet, that would be helpful for us to be able to see. Or even if you had a sheet like that that could be shared
with us that's on the computer and then we can always look at it whenever there's something going on, that would be really helpful. But the resolution is just calling for an employee census report to deliver an Excel spreadsheet in the same manner and
format all the same categories of information for every employee of this township as shown in the attached example. So looking at the example just getting this and then this would be delivered to the council first meeting of the month. So
it gets updated monthly. >> Fine. I I just made a suggestion. >> That makes sense. I I mean, >> and can we do it by department, please? >> Yes, please categorize them by department. Good suggestion, Pat. Yeah. >> Because we don't know who's in each
department. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Are we all in? I'd like to let me add to this. >> Uh Paul, you you mentioned this would be helpful um on monthly. What is it? Can I
just ask what what this is being helpful for on a monthly basis? >> Knowing who works for the township. Isn't that kind of what came in to know? >> Well, that's usually the administration that that that manages that.
Well, we don't manage anything, but we're supposed to. >> But that's what >> Well, overseeing and overreaching seems to be uh we just want information. >> You're asking for an acceler. >> No, not by you. You could hand it to somebody else can do it.
>> Then you're controlling the administration. >> Oh, come on. We need a report. You're really reaching um >> appropriation. We'll provide you with what we have. I I don't have an issue with that. But to for a monthly update
on an Excel spreadsheet, that's that's a bit much. I would think you would want an updated >> When I was on when I was on the board of education, mayor, we had an appointment report given us every single month >> for 650 some odd employees. >> Yes. Let me but let me let me explain.
So, I did call the board of ed and I asked them uh Mr. Higgins, I did ask about that roster thing. that is an application that they that they have that they run those reports on. Um, fortunately we don't have an application that runs those reports other than our
payroll uh registry which you guys got a copy of that before >> and it was wrong. That was last year's. So, we really didn't even get the correct information when we were looking at the budget and no one made us aware that that was 2025 information. We had to find that
out on our our own. Um, so that was not the right correct information. Anyway, >> you wouldn't have the 26 information because you haven't passed the budget yet. So, they would be temporary off of 2025 payroll once you pass the budget then. >> Yeah, but I don't know was those pay
were they at the did those rate >> Yeah. No in the beginning of the year or the end of 25. >> So, they're they're still getting paid still getting paid under debt to 2025. So any increase in your budget is going to be whatever is agreed upon, whatever is proposed by the mayor and what's
agreed upon by the council >> to to the point that Mr. Sparta made the position control roster is different from what Mr. Sparta referred to which is probably more appropriate. It was handed out every every meeting and it gave a listing of the number of
employees. You can see if there was an increase or a decrease, what department and why. It was pretty simple and there was nobody taking that information and pointing fingers and be used against anybody. It's information for the council and it should be updated so
there's no surprises on do we add employees, do we lose employees? It's it's a very important part of the budget and we should have it. It's pretty easy. >> Agreed. And I will also add that when we were on the board of education on our
agenda there was resignations and new hires and so on. So we were more in tuned on the board of education as the coming and going of employees than what we are here. We're not asking for that. All we're asking for is some sort of sheet that will show if there's any
changes that are happening in employment status of people throughout the the town. I I I just I don't understand why it's such a big issue. And I'm look, I'm not a fan of this resolution because resolutions are getting out of control. But I think to have a a a sheet given to
us that we ask for when we have to approve a budget gives us some sort of at least inkling and will allow us to make a more educated decision than going in blindly not knowing if we have 98 employees or 117 employees.
>> Right. Like I said, this this un understood that um you know when you have to um work on a budget, right, you need you need this type of information. I I agree. Um but like I said, monthly, I think that's that's that becomes uh
cumbersome. Um >> just a sentence or two saying so and so left. So that 2025 one had people that may have left. We didn't know that. So >> okay, how about this? We don't need an update unless somebody leaves or you hire somebody. No, I mean I mean it's
not >> then it would be a memo that says no update. I >> I think there's a distinction. >> Rocket science all when it's >> and it's public information. Other towns put all that information on
their website. Counties put it on their website. This is public information and should be provided. There is something I want to address though that came up when we asked for a report. I just sat through an eight-hour
long training session. I even got a little thing today to show it. Um they made it very clear that under a mayor council form of government under council manager doesn't matter. The council can always ask for a report. That is one of
the primary functions of a town council is to investigate, provide oversight and ask questions. We don't direct. We cannot administrate. That is what the mayor is for. That's what the administrative executive branch is for. But when we ask for information,
especially around budget time, but any time of the year, that's not even remotely out of our prerogative. Same thing with setting policy. The council sets policy. The mayor executes policy. Executive branch execute. Legislative
branch legislate. To ask for a report, even if we're asking for it to be generated monthly is completely within what we're supposed to be doing. So if you feel it's cumbersome, that's an I mean, you can express that. But to say it's overreaching to ask for a report of
who works for the town once a month delivered to the council, I can't that that how is that overreaching? That's literally what the council's there for. But with that, I want a motion to vote on this. And I'd like to make an amendment
um to say the um therefore be it resolved, the report shall categorize employees by department. Now, I I've never made an amendment before. Do I motion for that first or do I motion for the higher? No, >> you what you do is make a motion passing
the resolution with the amendment that you just read. >> Okay. Then I'd like to make a motion to pass resolution 26165 resolution requiring the mayor to submit a 2026 employee census report to the council with >> as amended.
>> As amended, the report shall categorize employees by department. Can I get a second? >> Second. Yeah. Well, >> ready for vote? >> Yep. >> Council member Canino? >> Yes.
>> Council member Holmes. >> Yes. >> Council member Rudo. >> Yes. >> Council member Sparta. >> Yes. >> Council President Higgins. >> Yes. >> Carries. >> Thank you. Mr. Sparta, I do want to add you said you're not a fan of these
resolutions, but I had asked for this report without a resolution and I got back. We're going to This is all I'm I'm giving you. >> I'll tell you why. >> So that is why >> I tell you why I'm not a fan of these. Okay. Because it has no bite.
It has no bite. >> So what would the bite be? I'm I want to learn. What would it be? >> There there is no bite no matter what because he cannot he he doesn't have to provide that to us. And what's the ramifications if he doesn't? There is no ramification. >> Well, there's no ramification of
anything then. >> No. No. That we need a resolution. These resolutions here all have an action that goes with it, right? And if something doesn't happen, then there's a ramification to it. This has nothing to it. >> So, how do we put a ramification to it?
You >> can't. That's my point. That's my point. We have no control over what the mayor does. >> Well, the resolution is requesting it as and he should abide by it. >> But he should abide by it. But my point is, if he doesn't, what do you do? They
don't have the report. >> That's my point. >> But that's better than not asking for it. >> Well, we've already asked for it numerous times. >> Well, now it's in writing. I I think it's good to move on, though, because we passed it. >> I would think
the administration would want us to have as much information so we can make the proper decisions and not give us the information we request. >> I think my comments that I've made show that I support. No, I think I'm just saying it.
>> We just move on, please. 7:30. Can we move on? >> Mr. Mayor, would you like to make comments? >> I already did. I said we'll provide you with um with the information. Um so,
us and report that we we can generate um through our systems. >> What do you mean through your systems? >> For what? >> Our systems our payroll system um generates a report on on employees and
conditions uh etc etc. But >> you're not going to send us that payroll which we all I have already. Is that what you're talking about? I think monthly is just I understand you know when it comes to budget I get all that. I get it and I'm not disagreeing with you on that. I just think monthly is
just it's a it's a bit much. >> But we don't know if any moves were made and what why don't you want us to know what moves were made hired? Who came in? Who left? >> Why wouldn't you want us to know that? >> I want to know the people that work
here. We're making decisions for them. I would think that's what you would want. for your employees that we would have upto-date information and we need to know that we hold the
money so I'm hoping we will get what we need. >> It's not difficult. The date, the name, the salary, the department. If that you can handle that, you handle much bigger things. But
>> with all due respect, I think we beat this one up. >> Yeah. Let's move on. >> Let the mayor complete his comments on other subjects. >> It's your comments, mayor. >> Yes. Okay. >> Okay. Um >> I'm going to I'm just going to save my
comments for um the introduction of the budget. So when that Sorry, just give me one second here. Well, we have I think we have um a few more resolutions to get to under items for discussion here. Resolution 2616367.
Then there's the introduction to the U budget. >> Yeah. And then I'll I'll go through my um my statement for the budget at that point. Okay. Unless you guys will not allow me to, I'll do it now. Do you guys want me to wait till the
budget um introduction or comments? >> No, let's wait. >> Okay. So the next is we'd like to open make a motion to open to public comment. >> Don't you have to do resolution? >> May comment to
>> I apologize. >> Yay. Nay. That's what I have on here. >> Yep. No, I apologize. On the wrong. >> Okay. So, I'd like to make a motion to open the floor to public comment. >> Second. I have >> second.
>> So the first public comment is for current agent agenda items only limited to three minutes per person. Does anybody wish to make comment? >> No microphones, right?
>> Okay. I have a simple request. Can you speak up tonight so we can hear little just a little bit more than your usual? All right. I just want to make a few quick comments. So, um, when the last mayor left office, we had 11 part-time employees. Within one year of this new
administration, you had 24 part-time employees. And that's documented right on the website on the budgets. We had 100 full-time employees when he came in and we now have 107 full-time employees.
Very important for this council to know what's going on in the administration. So, I do definitely agree with you getting that information as it plays into a lot of your decision making perhaps for the budget. Um, that's it. Thank you. >> Thank you for your comment.
Anybody else wish to make a statement? >> Does it matter where I stand? Speak loud enough you could hear me. Dorian Edwards, Highland Lakes. I got to say I'm really embarrassed for our town. This back and forth with control issues
is really a bad look for Vernon. And I don't know what to say about it. I'm just flabbergasted that this continues on and on and on. A cohesive body, the mayor working with the council is what we should have. It
should not be a secret. it it's not reporting that really, you know, if nobody moves, you just say, "Okay, nobody no movement in the in the employee roster this month or whatever." I don't know. You're making a big deal about nothing. I I can't understand it.
There's some key reporting and coverage details. Have any of you ever heard of EEO-4 reporting? It has to do with state and local governments that has over a hundred or more employees are required to submit the bennial
state and local government information report EEO-4. Look it up. Okay. I I don't know what to say. I'm I'm really I'm I'm upset. I'm upset.
That's all I'm going to say for now. And I'm tired of the damn systems not working in here. How many years do we have to go through this where we can't even have a sound system that freaking works? I mean, this is like I've been what coming on and off for 10, 15 years
and it's always been the same old story. Aren't you people frustrated with that? I don't get it. Anyway, I'll come back on the on another issue, but that's what I have to say. >> Okay. Thank you for your comment. Anybody else wish to get up and speak?
No. I'd like to make a motion to close public comment. >> So moved. >> Second. Well, I made a motion, but yes. >> Second. >> Okay. Uh review of billless.
Anybody have any comments? Anybody have a comment? If you have any questions, you can email Tina. We'll move along. Okay. Approval of minutes. March 23rd, 2026 regular meeting. May I
have a motion to approve the March 23rd, 2026 regular meeting minutes? >> Moved. >> And do I have a second? >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Yes. >> Council member Holmes.
>> Yes. >> Council member Rudo. >> Yes. >> Council member. >> Yes. >> President Higgins. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. March 30, 2026 special meeting. May I have a motion to approve to approve the
March 30th, 2026 special meeting minutes? >> Move. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Council member Canino? >> Yes. >> Council member Ols. >> Yes. >> Council member Rudo. >> Yes. >> Council member Sparta. >> Yes.
>> Council President Higgins. >> Yes. Motion carries. March 30th, 2026 budget workshop meeting. May I have a motion to approve the March 30th, 2026 workshop meeting minutes?
>> Motion. >> Have a second. >> I'll second. >> Roll call. >> Council member Canino? >> Yes. >> Council member Ols. >> Yes. >> Member Runo. >> Yes. >> Yes.
>> President. Yes. >> Motion carries. >> One correction on that, Sandy. Did you mean April 6th or April 30th? >> No, it's April 30th. April 6th. I'm sorry. 6th. >> April 6th. >> Budget workshop. >> 6 is now.
>> We haven't got to the 30th yet. >> Haven't No, you haven't gotten to this. >> No, didn't. >> Unless you said April 6th. >> Okay. April 6, 2020 26. 2026 budget workshop meeting. May I have a motion to approve the April 6, 2026
workshop meeting minutes? Roll call. Uh, anybody want to make a motion? >> Second. >> A roll call. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Mudo. >> Yes. >> Yes.
>> Yes. >> Okay. The consent agenda. Does anybody want anything fooled out? >> I do. Okay, I'm pulling out 26-150. Anybody else want Anything pulled out?
>> No. >> No. >> No. >> Okay. So, resolution 26151 refund for carry permit municipal fee. >> If you want, we can do it by consent. So, you'd have resolution a motion to pass resolution on consent. Resolution
26151 through resolution 26167. Wait, resolution 26166 is introducing the budget. >> Yeah, that's true. >> It's out of order if that's a whole another resolution.
>> Okay. So then motion 6. Okay. Y 164 >> and and 167 >> 167 we already voted >> I'm sorry 16 >> well you have that >> 167
>> wouldn't it be >> we just leave it >> on the consent agenda except for 26150 Okay. Do I may I have a motion >> to approve the consent agenda
>> with the exception of resolution 26150 which was pulled off? >> So moved. >> Yes. >> Second. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Council member Canino. >> Yes. >> Council member Ols.
>> Yes. Council member Rudo. >> Yes. >> Council member Sparta. >> Yes. >> Council president. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, resolution 26150. I just have some questions about >> So, move it to the floor. So, is there motion to
>> put it on the floor for >> Oh, okay. I'd like to take a motion. Make a motion to discuss resolution 26150. >> Some moved. Second. Is there a second? >> Second. >> A second. Roll call.
>> No. >> No. Now we discuss. >> Oh, we can discuss about it. Okay. So, I just have some questions of where these um generators are located. And one question is why
is the town paying for the MUA lift station generators? Does anybody know? Because bills are submitted by the MUA and paid by the funds from the MUA to
the township. They're the people. Township is the ones that say that sends out the uh the payment checks. >> Okay. So, in the end, we're not paying for it. >> No, you're not. No, you're pay these are the payments are made from funds that
are uh the MUA's account. >> It's a it's a strange hybrid system that Vernon seems to have where the Vernon MUA collects the money from the um users of the system.
>> Then sends the money to the town and then the town pays schuma andor the the vendors. So they're going to get a bill for these generator. >> So So money will Yes. Schuma will send money to Vernon Township. Correct, Patty.
>> Were these for these? >> So ask usually that's how it works. >> If it's something that MUA Yes. owes us, we will I will look into it and if that is owed, I will bill them for it. >> I don't know if it's any >> I'm just hearing this for the first time
that the MUA is on there. So >> yeah. So we'll build the MUA and it will come back to the town. >> Yes. >> This is this is nothing new. It's been the charter for the MUA was conceived
this way because of uh came into uh into existence and uh rather than for the sake of saving money rather than having separate accounts, it goes through the system because the the people in in the
town hall are the people that function for the uh for the MUA and It's >> Yes, the MA will be built for it then. >> And the MA does >> Oh, what? So, they'll get build for every one of these $1,700 for every one
of these lift stations and pump station. >> Yeah. >> So, the lift station and the pump stations we're going to get refunded. >> It says MUA. >> Well, it doesn't say MUA. It just says pump stations. That's quite
That's like all of these. I'm >> you can't change the way the thing was developed. >> No, I'm just asking how it works. >> So, usually again the way it works is there's a hybrid system here. Uh because the service agreement is in Vernon
Township. So, theoretically, the Vernon Township has to pay schuma for the cost to treat the the waste. Vernon Township MUA collects all the money from the rateayers. They give a check to Vernon Township, then Vern Township sends it to Skumo
with regard to these um >> lift stations. >> Lift stations. I guess they're doing it the same way. I I don't know. >> I can't respond to that. >> All right. So, we'll find out. We charge. Thank you, Patty. >> No problem. >> And then I asked I'm asking
Lake Panorama has a generator. I mean, I can see the municipal building, animal control, but Lake Conway has a >> It's for the police tower radio communication. >> Okay. So, that's Lake Conway. So, what is Mondomen?
M O N D O M I N. What's that? Does anybody know? >> A tower also. Radio tower also. >> Is that the name of the tower? >> Yeah, I believe that a tower is there, too. Yes. And that's the name of the tower. >> Okay.
Yeah, >> I just want to understand it. >> Did you guys read this whole thing that we have a contract but yet we have to pay them for additional hourly rate?
I don't know what you guys normal. >> Well, it's saying here we have a contract, but then we're going to pay them for additional work at about 190 an hour. >> That's between the town the uh the MUA
the uh the employee that's employed by the township. There's a shared service >> for this bit. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. >> Places at once.
>> Okay. So, I'd like to make a motion. >> Do I have to put this back on the table? >> No, it's been on the table. So, just for a roll call or >> call vote member Canino? >> Yes. >> Holmes?
>> Yes. >> Council member Rudo? >> Yes. >> Council member Sparta. >> Yes. >> Council President Davis. >> Yes. Motion carries. >> Okay. Make a motion for the introduction of
the 2026 municipal budget. I have a motion to introduce the 2026 municipal budget. Motion. >> Oh, not to introduce but the presentation. Sorry.
Uh just I >> are we having a presentation? >> I just give a statement about the budget um and just go through uh some of the the the items on on
how we got to this point budget. >> Okay. >> All right. Good. >> Mhm. Go ahead. >> Are you going to show something on the TV or >> No, no. I'm just going to I'm just going to read it. >> Okay.
>> Okay. Council President Higgins and other members of the council. >> During the past few months, the financial chief financial officer uh Patricia Riky, business administrator, Tina Tina Krauss, and I have been meeting with municipal department heads
and reviewing discussing their budget related related departmental requirements plans for 2026. The entire staff started their 2026 budget development process with the direction that they look for cost
savings opportunities. every departmental complaint item, the municipal budget uh development process and the related statuto budget deadlines are governed and directed by the New Jersey Division of Local Government
Services which has the statutory responsibility for developing and implementing state of New Jersey rules and regulations on the fiscal operations, fiscal reforming and overseeing the fiscal condition of all
New Jersey municipalities. The following are four key statutory budget deadlines and processes that the New Jersey Division of Local Government Services require all municipalities to meet and follow. One, the statutory
deadline and process related to the development of the municipal budget. The mayor is required to provide one public hearing which must take must take place during the month of November where the department heads review their budget request with the mayor. That statutory
requirement was met on November 24th, 2025. Two, the statutory deadline for the mayor to provide the council a copy of the proposed municipal budget. The mayor is required to officially submit the proposed municipal budget to the council
for review not later than the first meeting after February 27th. The proposed 2026 municipal budget which was provided to the council on March 23rd, 2026. This timeline was late at no fault of
the mayor or the administration due to onboarding of the new CFO. we would justify by being late as >> per orders. Also note the mayor cannot deliver the budget without the CFO and auditors
review and sign up. >> Three, the statutory deadline for the council to introduce the municipal budget at a public council meeting. The council is required to introduce the municipal budget at a public council meeting not later than the first meeting
after March 31st. Four story deadline for the council to approve the municipal budget at a public council meeting. Council is required to approve the municipal budget at a public council meeting not later than the first
meeting after April 30th. Um I I have May 18th, 2026. Are we uh council president, can you just confirm that because >> 28th? It's coming. >> So I'm hearing 20th, but I he he mentioned to me he was maybe going there was going to be meeting on the 18th. >> We still can't do it that day.
>> You still can't do it then. Okay. So beyond the 28th, >> this budget as it is proposed has been developed with a focus of the achievement of five key goals. These goal these five key goals are one to maintain the level of services that our
town is required to provide or has committed to providing while at the same time looking for areas where we can operate in a more effective and efficient way. >> Two, to continue our ongoing road improvement program and to replace in an
efficient financially responsible in a in a financially responsible manner town vehicles and equipment that are beyond their useful lives. Three, to continue to pay down our debt and create a pay as you go system to shortlive capital expenses. Four, to
continue to make repairs and improvements to township properties as to avoid even larger improvements uh improvement costs in the future. And five, to ensure Vernon Township stays businessfriendly, encouraging businesses to establish themselves in Vernon
Township, working with the developers to meet the needs of residents and increase the the commercial ratable base. The final budget that that the administration presented to the council in 2024, to go back a little bit in history, resulted in a 0% increase in
municipal taxes. The township was able to achieve this objective by using over 539,000 from the reserve from sale of property and 1.75 million from the municipal fund balance which is the town savings account where it maintains funds
to cover the cost of those unforeseen unknown and unknowable expenses that pop up from time to time. And while the use of fund balance that the town has generated over time was critical to the mayor and the council's achievement of
the objective of delivering a 0% uh increase in the municipal portion of the taxes for 2024 24. >> It also matched the average 2% increase that the town had to pay for the basic operations and municipal government.
This was after the fund balance used in 2022 mass the nearly increase in operations and 2023 masking the 3% increase in operations. The township has anticipated 1.95
million in fund balance use this year. Massive increase in cost that must be considered in that must be considered in the 2026 budget. The township had to absorb this increased cost 2022 23 24 25
which is reflected in this use and depletion of fund balance has added to 2026 budget increase. In this year's budget, we are we are forced to deal with recognize not only to we are forced with and recognize not only this year's
inflammatory cost but also the inflammatory cost from from years from 2023 through 2026 well again in 2022 23 24% increase is causing which including the
following. Now the numbers I'm going to give you is the overall cost from the 23 to 2026 but I'll also give you the number of the increase today over 21% in health health insurance expenses that was this year totals 26 in health
insurance expenses. It could have been doubled if we didn't get out of the original plan. Over 7% liability insurance um increase total 20%. Again, that's over the three years. Over 2.5 in workman's
compensation insurance total is 15%. Over 2.5 in road repairs, maintenance, other expense operations total 47%. Six over 22 in recycling operations
other expenses for recycling disposal total 60%. Over six 6% in police operations and other expenses for service contracts total 35%. Over 6.5 for fleet maintenance other
expenses for maintaining the fleet the township fleet and emergency service vehicles total of 38%. Over 13% increase in budgeted utility expenses total 15%.
Over 15% in social security expenses total for three years again is 33%. 0% in pension obligations for public employees this year which is a little shocker. Uh but today it's still a 10%
increase over the three years over 4% for for pension obligations for police employees which is a total of 10%. Where and how the majority of the 2026 municipal tax dollars will be spent.
There are seven categories are category that covers the cost of the police department and emergency volunteer service budgets and include our law enforcement officer salaries and wages, the police department's administrative office and equipment supplies, radio
dispatch services for for our police department, plus our volunteer fire and and services and low and our town's animal control needs. At 6.3 million, this category consumes 18.25% 25% of the total value.
>> Two, the category that covers our town's debt payments >> and the town's cash payments >> required cayments for >> at 4.6 million. This category consumes 13.5% of the total budget.
>> Three, the category that covers our payments for our employees health insurance, unemployment insurance, workman's compensation insurance, and other insurance at 4.8 million. This category consumes 14% of the total budget.
Four, the category that covers our payments for road and and maintenance, our buildings and grounds, our parks maintenance, and our recycling center and fleet management at 3.5 million. This this category consumes 10.25 of the total budget. Five, the reserve for
uncollected taxes. This is the category that covers the amount of funds that sound that sound accounting practices require that we that we add to our budget to cover the dollar amount of taxes that our experience tells us that
we are not likely to collect during the given budget year. Based on our 2025 tax collection rate, 97.03% 3%. The the dollar amount that we are required to include in this year's budget is 2.7 million or 8% of the total
budget. Six, the category that covers our statutory obligations for social security, retirements, and define contribution payments plus reimbursements that the town is required by law to pay to private lakes and other
private communities under the municipal service act, better known as the Kelly Bill, at 3.3 million. This category consumes 9.75 of the total budget. I also want to make note that our 100% disabled veterans in
Vernon has has grown from 82 in 2024 to 117 in 2025, which is a tax loss on just under $1.1 million that the municipality refunds back while the county and school keep
their portion. This budget should be a reminder to all as to why the two pilot programs we did was necessary and will be a positive impact towards future projects, future budgets, excuse me. Another means of revenue is the
cannabis. I have expedited the oper the cannabis operations from nine pods to 18 pods which has just begun producing cannabis. According to Sussex Cultivation, the township has been receiving the 2% tax revenue which has
which has which has just been collected just about $100,000 for 2025 which has almost tripled from 2024. This is before the cultivation portion has even begun. Okay, this is this is
only manufacturing and retail. The cultivation pro process um has just begun. So we should see some good stuff coming with that. Legends legends new tax leans of 190 properties for for uh
277,000. We received the tax payments for those 190 properties which are currently which are current today. Back taxes on legends are currently under review by administration, council and attorneys with a full cooperation from the new
owners. the decadal tax deficit will be coming to an end in the next couple of months. Again, I want to thank the residents again for for your patience um as well as the council's willingness to resolve this quickly as well. In addition, I'll ask the council to launch
the garbage initiative soon uh so we can bring more revenue. This is a lot of money to be made with garbage and will be a easy convenience uh for our residents. Finally, in developing this year's municipal budget, I have chosen
to use 1.95 million from the municipal fund balance solely to uh in in my attempt to reduce the 2026 municipal portion of the taxes to the smallest increase possible while still being responsible to taxpayers and ensuring
that they are not met with a much larger increase in the future years. This year's budget as it is proposed total totals 34,63492,000 a 6% increase over last a 6% increase over last year's budget. The net result
in net municipal taxes are anticipated with an average increase of $9 a month on the average home. >> Again, that's a $9 increase on the average home monthly. So it's a 6% increase. >> I am not pleased that the municipality
needs to have required me to present the budget that includes a tax increase. Nobody wants to pay tax, right? Um however, this proposal is a result of thorough and disciplined process. My administration again has met with every department head, reviewed every line
item and detailed and evaluated all anticipated increases. Adjustments have been made. >> We're appropriate >> and very effort has been taken to ensure that any increase reflected in the budget is fully justified, necessary,
and responsible. This budget is built on addressing the township's actual operating needs, not discretionary or unnecessary spending. I also have serious concerns about the consequences of excessive cuts.
beyond what is operationally sound increases the likelihood of emergency appropriations, special meetings, and reactive decision making. All of which undermine fiscal stability and long-term planning. That is precisely why we budget to
responsibly plan not only for known expenses, but also for foreseeable and unavoidable contingencies. I urge the council to understand and to recognize that maintaining stability today prevents far greater financial and
operational challenges tomorrow. Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you, mayor. Any more comment? No. >> Any questions you have? >> Pardon me. >> Any questions? >> Yeah. So, I don't know if you want to take a look there. I We just got the
capital update. So, does anybody want to take some time to look at it? Have questions? >> I have a question. >> I think before we do anything, this pertains to the budget. We should put the budget on the floor. >> We have a motion for it. >> We need a motion. >> Okay. Make a motion to discuss the
budget. Put it on the floor. >> Protuce the budget. >> I'll introduce it. Do you want to discuss it before we introduce it? >> It has to be put on the floor. >> A motion, the second, then discussion, then roll call. >> All right. So I make a motion to
introduce the 2026 municipal budget. >> Moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion? No discussion. >> Sorry. >> Discuss. >> Have discussion now. >> Okay. >> And once discussion is over, then call for the vote. >> Um I do have a question. So, I noticed
and I'm very glad to see that the ladder truck is back in the capital budget because I had noticed in a previous iteration that I had, it had been cut and none of us had ever suggested cutting that at any of the work session
meetings. I would never support cutting the ladder truck for the fire department. They made a very good case for why they need that and I think it's something that would benefit our town completely. Um, but what I did notice is if I add up all of the green items that
are being paid for with reserves, >> it comes to 134,280. And that's being paid for with the fire department's reserve from prior years. But then when I look at the capital budget, it says amounts reserved in prior years that are being used in the
budget 234,280. So, is that 5% down on the ladder truck coming out of their reserves? >> Correct. >> Okay, that makes sense. Um, and I just again I'm really glad to see that that's
back in there because that's important. >> So, based off of the recommendations that were at the last council meeting where I was unable to attend, I've gotten feedback. Um I um spoke with the mayor and Tina and we had made some adjustments accordingly based off of
your recommendations. >> Okay. >> And I also I appreciate that we got the updated capital plan this evening because that was something I was going to ask for tonight. Um I when I was looking through the budget um a lot of
things like this draft budget that we got and maybe this is just because I'm new but the draft budget that we got has everything itemized in sub accounts and it shows us where every single dollar is going the actual budget itself
>> a document >> it's just a document >> correct all that >> summarizes it by salary and wages so this is what you're introducing that's why I wanted to present give this to you so you understand what you're uh introducing because as you noticed in the beginning you had a budget message
at the end you have your capital and on short sheet 40B is a quick easiest way it shows your capital on how you picked out the reserves and it shows you how we're funding it whether it be going out to debt so that's why I want since this is the document you're approving that's
why I gave you this >> yeah and I appreciate Patty everything you've sent us and the help that you've given us throughout the process I am um I'm comfortable with most of the numbers that I see in here. The only other question I have is and maybe this pertains more to the employee census
that we were given before especially when I look at like take for instance the tax collector if I take the three people working in that office and I add their salaries up it comes to more than
what's in the budget and that confuses me. >> Okay. So we have a shared service with MUA and they pay a portion of the tax collection salaries because they we collect the water uh the sewer payments the MUA payments so that offsets their
salaries. >> Okay. I think um throughout the whole process the only like complaint that I would have really is just with um kind of the dissemination of information and
when we ask questions sometimes you've always been very quick to respond but it's it's hard to understand this whole document and like we got the capital budget plan now but when I was looking through it a couple of days ago I didn't
really get a lot of time to digest it. Um, but you answered my questions and I really appreciate that. Does anyone else have any questions? >> So, my goal is obviously I did this this was like I would normally start this in September. So, next year we it should be
a little more time for digesting. This was just we were just trying to move the process like just keep it going. >> Yeah. >> Um, my goal is this will not be this pace next year. >> Yeah. And thank you for that.
I have one quick question on sheet 17. >> Yes. >> Has utility and bulk purchases, right? But then it has salary adjustment of $50,000. What is that? What is that in?
So what happened is um when we gave the got it down to the original 6% all non-UN salaries were pulled. Mayor I don't know if you want to speak to this um you know
>> we put it in there for um for their uh cost of living raise. Um >> so that came after the fact and I had already pulled it all out. So instead of me going to each line item and going to all of them, um the total value of the
non-union raises that I pulled out was like 48,000 just 149,000. So I'm putting that back in. So all non-unions will get a raise, but that it is I do have a breakdown of
how I came up to that number >> at the mayor's direction. Uh Patty, >> the mayor's direction. Yes. >> So any salary reductions will be overturned and he'll just pay them anyway. >> Okay, that's that's the conclusion of
that. >> Another question on the 1.1 million that uh is forgiven for the disabilities for the veterans. Mhm. >> Is that included in your number of taxes or do we figure it with that money
coming in and then the county reduces it more? What is how does that process take place? >> So that's where the reserve fund collected taxes comes in. So um as the mayor stated in his statement that there's a portion that you have to
put into your budget. It's a formula that you determine that you're not going to collect and that's kind of where that kind of um kind of lies that assuming that you're not going to get it and we are not going to get it because they are the disabled veterans. So there is a
there is a formula in or a line item in here that does account for it's called reserve for uncollected taxes and I believe that is on sheet On sheet 30, letter M says reserve for uncollected taxes. We have $2.7 million.
So a part of that will be the uh thank you disabled veterans exe the exempt disabled veterans. >> Okay. Okay. So, we're not going to get hit with a surprise later if if, for example, if if a 6% tax increase is approved, it's not going to because that
amount is worth about four tax points alone. Yeah, that could take it to 10%. But you've already figured it in. >> So, I figured, yeah, about 2.7, I'm assuming. And whether it be exempt vets or somebody who didn't pay their taxes in the current year, it it kind of is a
catchall for all that. >> Okay. What's your total surplus left over after if your budget were approved today? What do you have in >> It would be four million. Just about four million. >> 4 million on a tax base of
21 million that we charge the residents. So 4 into 20. See what percentage we got here. 4 divided by 20 21 but 19%.
In my mind that's not a unhealthy balance in in an accountant's mind. Yeah. We asked this question to our auditor last year and they said we would take as much as we can get starting at 30%. >> Yeah. They they look at it over the
overall budget, the whole budget, the 32 34 million. So they look at it as a percentage of the full budget, the 34 million, not just the point that we're uh the amount that we're raising. >> I I compared the state budget. You know, the state's different from municipality,
but the state budget is is figured on a percentage of the amount risen or gotten from the taxpayers, and theirs is 10.8%. and we're working with uh 19%. So it's it's not a critical situation in my mind the way the mayor presented on his
budget. And the fact is that yes, there were two years before he and I and others were elected where there was 0% but everybody forgets to say that during the COVID years much money was received
much money was not spent. The surplus in every town, every state, federal government was ballooning because of all the unspent money. Things were closed, schools were closed, municipalities were closed, and that fund balance went up.
To have it 0% for three years, two before we got on and when we were here, was the right thing to do. It brought it down to a workable number. In the mayor's budget last year, he went for 7%. So, and he got it. So to say that it
the three years hurt everything, the seven years retroactively reestablish some of the money that he's saying that we needed. And >> I just say a good rule of thumb though is to always try to replenish what you use. That's a good um a good standard to
try to keep up with that. If we use the 1.9, we should try to gain 1.9 back. each like you should try to at least get what you use and then if more better, >> right? So in general, you know, we we
have a job of balancing the revenues coming in and creating more revenue if possible and and managing the expenses. So in a general statement, not counting the monies received from the taxpayers, is your revenue projected to be up or
down next year? >> Uh I hope up. I mean, we maxed them. I mean, we did max out the revenues, so there um we're there's going to be I want to collect at least that, if not more. Um I really don't know. Um I
really haven't talked to the departments. I know one department's looking at I one of the recommendations I did make to the departments was to look at their fees and if it's something that hasn't been updated. A lot of them said they have been updated. One uh department did say that they will look because they don't think their fees have
been updated. So what they'll do is check with other towns just to make sure uh if their fees are not in line. So I I can only hope that the revenues go up. >> Right. Well, that's that's the job. You know, balancing the revenues and expenses is the key. Are there any uh
large revenues that we received grant-wise or otherwise previous years that are not going to be here this year? So grants don't usually add to the revenue because what happens is I whatever I put in revenue, I put an offset of an appropriation so they net
out to zero. So if I'm expecting a $10,000 grant, I'll put 10,000 in revenue and then I put a 10,000 in the appropriations because the revenue is saying I'm getting it in and the appropriation is giving the authority for the department to spend it. So they net out to zero.
>> Right? In previous discussions, and I wasn't there because I'm on Zoom, there were a lot of discussion on specific items. One was the garbage collection plan. I was a supporter of that until it came time to see that there was a cost put in the budget because that garbage
collection plan could have been done if we got enough people signed up at zero cost. But it wasn't presented that way in the budget. So, I'm assuming the money for the garbage program has been taken out. Correct. Yes, the solid waste program has been taken out
>> and the uh steps over at Maple Graange removed >> steps steps at Maple Graange have been removed also from the capital plan. >> Okay. Another subject was this rubber mulch versus real mulch. >> The mulch came out of the capital plan for this year. Yes. >> Okay. >> For this year again, will they be
addressed next year? I do not know. Council President, one of the one of the things about the steps, the reason why we were even considering the steps um was to try to low uh reduce the cost of the portagons that we that we spend every month having down there.
So, if we provided like, you know, kind of like steps to get to the uh bathrooms, um we were hoping to reduce those numbers by having those steps. >> Okay. The uh MUA revenue is expected to be
down $49,000 this next year. Is that accurate? >> What page you on? >> That's my thing. Yeah. So, that's again that's another wash. Whatever. It's kind of like a grant. Whatever I'm saying it's going to be coming in as revenue, I have
an offset from um the appropriation that we're going to pay them and that also too that we're going to be receiving that money from MUA. So that also nets out to zero. >> Okay. Our overall shared service revenue down 50,000. Is that accurate?
>> Yes. That's because um the previous CFO was doing the two jobs and MUA was paying for her time and with the split they now are not compensating. They're compensating for still some of finance and some of tax collection, but the part
portion of the CFO um they hired the previous CFO as they're paying her directly. So that 50,000 is going to pay her directly from them. Okay. Oh, that's it for me for right
now. Anybody else? Uh feel free. >> Yeah, I'd like to move into the area of uh our fund balance. Uh I noticed that on our uh
annual financial statement, we're looking at $211,000 and change for the sale of municipal assets. And further there's 32,752
on the capital fund balance. Uh both of those are have not been uh uh set for use in any other area. If we can
take that amount of money which totals about the uh the increase that we've put into the uh the current statement for uh our contribution from >> I know you spoke with man I also
>> so speaking with man yeah we added 300,000 so if to do we can take 200 from the sale of municipal assets that's in 100 from the capital improvement fund for the 300 and so if we reduce the
capital I'm sorry the fund balance um by 300,000 replace it with these two as an even wash yeah >> we can introduce with that amendment >> and I think that probably helps us in terms of you know people looking at the
fund balance certainly our uh rating agencies I don't know if 300 is enough but you know every little bit helps >> and that's almost a full tax point in that particular area. So that I'd like
to make that change in terms of being >> so what that's just so the rest of the council knows I would be putting in two additional revenues totaling 300,000 but then I would be taking fund balance and going from the 1.9 down to the 16 but
what we did it last year. So it's just kind of moving it down to another category. >> So can we >> we can do um >> can we introduce the budget? We can introduce the buds >> the budget with that change. >> We can introduce and just say with the amend like kind of like you did with the resolution with the amendment of moving
300, uh 200 to one line item and I can give you the exact wording um and to the other. So yes, that wouldn't be a >> between the introduction and the approval changes can be made anyway. Correct. only but they only have to
>> I get nervous but yeah >> they they can be made but there are certain restrictions restrictions on it that >> yes >> to the amount and if the line item goes over certain amount has to be a separate public hearing if it goes over the whole
so you really want to and again I'm hoping I'm answering all the questions and we can kind of get there and with this amendment if we can introduce and you guys are comfortable with it move forward to then adoption. >> That's why I brought it up here because I think the number that we're looking at
would be substantial enough that if it were to be introduced after the introduction then we'd have to have another >> another public hearing. Yes. So if again if you're thinking of do making any changes >> now's the time
>> now is the time to do of any substance. >> Are you done? >> Yes. >> Okay. Question. >> Oh yes. One other thing. >> Sure. >> I this is just a comment in general. Uh I I found it very very difficult to work especially on these numbers. Uh as we
came to the end uh when we received the budget the sub you know the the the subtotals the uh were included. Uh we made changes in in
the sub subtotals and uh and you could make the changes. you knew where they were and you were trying to keep things in balance. In the end, I wasn't able to get any information. It got to the point and I'm still a little bit off a little bit concerned.
>> Did you get my memo where I gave you all the changes? I sent them >> not recently. >> So, the only So, the only changes I sent a memo to Marcy that was sent out all the changes. The only thing that's been changed from that memo today was us
putting the salaries back in. That's the only change. Otherwise, all the changes you had are still um that's it. Nothing else. >> I didn't know that. >> Okay. I got it. I got those memory those uh those uh noses from Marcy. My
question was do these some other changes are they reflected in uh in in those items and I wasn't able to address you because of uh your inability to speak with me. Uh and speaking of inability to
speak with me, I'm so happy to see you here this evening. I understand you were not feeling well. >> Thank you. >> That's why you missed the last meeting. So I'm happy to see you here. Uh, but I'm not I don't think that was the reason why the mayor wouldn't let you speak to me. So, it's >> No, I didn't do that whole elaborate
thing just for that. I didn't >> I would have found something better to go to Hawaii or something. >> Glad to see your >> good for you. Picked a great place. >> I have a question. So on building and grounds
when I go to the draft budget where in the draft budget does it outline and I'm probably overlooking it other expenses building and grounds. I see building department but I don't see
so you're talking about this budget. >> Yeah the draft where you listed itemize everything. So it that would be under DPW uh number 20 tab. >> Oh okay. >> So in DPW they have the road department,
the snow removal, this um solid waste that was removed, recycling, buildings and grounds fleet maintenance and maintenance of parks. >> Oh and that's all in other expenses >> that well each department has a salary on the top and expenses on the bottom.
>> Right. So that's all those expenses that >> Yeah. So it >> rattled off. Yes. >> Okay. >> So, let me ask you a question. So, I had mentioned putting itemize the capital in the budget where people can see what
we'll be spending. Um, will they get the public get the list of capital? uh be posted on the website. I can make it at the end. >> Okay. Yeah. So everybody knows what
exactly is in that capital. >> What improvements to expect, what their money paying for >> from anybody else have any questions? >> Sandy, you had a question that you asked me the other day about the monies from the auctions. >> The what >> auctions
>> we just address I don't >> what he's Yeah. that Pat was saying >> that was part of that $211,000. That's where it's going. >> Okay, good. >> So, next year, well, 2026, has that been did that auction go off already for 2026?
>> Do an auction this year? >> You we passed an ordinance resolution >> process right now there. It was >> excuse me, girls. Yeah. >> So, it's in progress right now. Okay. Thank you.
>> Okay. Any other questions? Nay. Nay. Okay. So, now >> So, can I >> amend my Can I amend the motion? >> That's what I was going to say. >> Do you want the line item so you know what to call I have items here? >> Yeah. >> Okay.
>> Motion to introduce it with that amendment. So, we're gonna do 100 on this. >> That's You have the line items. >> Thank you very much. >> You're welcome. >> Uh, I'd like to amend my previous motion to include in the introduction
a um a motion to move 132,000. >> We're going to make it even the 100 and 200. >> I'm sorry. 100 >> and then the other one's going to be 200 >> 200
>> 100,000 >> and 200. Okay. Motion to include 100,000 from the capital fund balance uh as on sheet 8 point no as taken from
sheet noted on sheet 8.1 and the sale of a municipal assets of 200,000 uh as on stated on sheet 3A uh >> and to reduce >> and to reduce the uh amount that was
taken from uh fund balance u and return that amount to I'm sorry that was >> reduce it by 300 >> reduce it by three 3 million 300,000 >> so that's the amended um resolution >> yeah without amendment amended >> budget
>> budget so then you would ask for a motion to >> adopt um introduce >> as amended >> motion introduce as >> introduce as amended >> as amended Yeah. So, I'd like to make a motion to introduce the 2026 municipal
budget as amended. >> Sandy, before that, is are they did you ask if there were any other suggestions to amend? Yes, >> I mentioned that earlier, council president, if anybody, you know, that we look at it because if anybody had any
thoughts of going into any significant number, you had you should probably do it now so that we wouldn't be constrained by the um the the the changes that would have to occur if uh if they weren't made now.
>> Right. So, I I would go back to uh sheet 17 and remove the salary adjustment of $50,000. >> Council President, I I I would strongly advise against that. um simply because um this is something that we've been
giving. I I I think when you when you weed out um our department heads, it it kind of sends a a message and also it kind of looks like uh it could be looked as as political and create uh grievances
um morale and uh and legal challenges as well. um unless there's a real justifiable need on why a justifiable reason why that's getting cut out um to just say you know no raise we need I
need the reasons behind that >> well the reason behind it is it was discussed at length by all those other four members of the council that I'm looking at and there was u their their suggestion to do that and once they did
and they and they verbalized that that you went behind to undo what the council thought was the right thing to do. So, I'm just suggesting that was their wish and I'm suggesting to put it back in there. >> If the other council members don't
agree, then now's the time to speak up. >> Like I said, we found we found a lot of ways um to to make that happen to get down to a percent that that was was um satisfactory. Um, like I said, I think
it's it's I have a lot of concern what what that may cause. So, like I said, our department heads, you know, they they go above and beyond every day. Some of them wear multiple hats. I I I think it's
it's it's very hard. Um, you see the amount of work and how much money they actually save this township. Um you have other townships give example the building department building department actually pays for actually makes a profit. Um it
it not only pays for itself but also brings in a profit. So like I said the the the um the non-union employees the department heads again go above and beyond. Um I I don't think the raises were un they
weren't unrealistic. They were in line with everyone else. But I think when you take those was it 20 employees and yeah I I think it sends it sends a very bad message. Um and I have great concerns that that people are not going to go
above and beyond. Um they're not going to feel valued. Um we have a great staff. They do again we're short staffed to begin with. Um we can I can go through the departments to tell you show you how we're understaffed and and the
amount of stuff that they do and the work that they do. Um when I when I bring my township address uh you will see that if you look at last year's township address and how we got to this point to you know what our township does what these people do every day is
astronomical for the amount of work that they do. Um like I said I think it's it's >> it's for 29 people too. >> 29 29 >> It's for 29 people. >> Right. I'm going to appeal to the other council members if they want to support it. If
not, that's okay, too. We're we're group of five. >> Oh, in a sense, that would be no racist, >> right? No racist people. >> Just to the part-time people. >> Yeah. The country and department heads. >> Yeah. For everybody that was put in
there. So, um I think um we're looking more at uh hiring freeze um and a freeze from part-time to full-time. We discussed that. That's that's a good
good discussion, good compromise. If the mayor, we already said if we do a hiring freeze, that's not enforceable. That's that's his call. And if he wants to if he wants to negotiate here publicly and save the raise and then
agree to a hiring freeze and then the movement of part-time to full-time >> maybe >> yeah I mean we set policy and if the policy is a hiring freeze which doesn't affect anybody
and a freeze from part-time to full-time versus as a tradeoff for You're saying salary increases. >> So let me um >> so we create the policy. I mean we just attended
or >> they spoke at a municipal meeting about yes that is the purview of the council >> set policy >> to set policy. Many a state of New Jersey is doing the same thing and many
towns in New Jersey are doing the same thing because of what's going on with the budgets. >> Yeah, I would rather explore an idea like that then. I mean, if we're going to talk about cutting 29 people's increment for the year, that's something that would require way more robust
discussion than anything we could have at count. To do something like that on the fly, I I don't really feel that comfortable with. It's the idea is worth talking about, but I feel like that's something that we should have been discussing at one of the work sessions.
We change it like that at at the meeting. Does that make sense what I'm saying? Like I feel like doing that on the fly, I just can't really cuz I can't I can't look at the numbers. I can't see exactly who it would be affecting. And that's my problem with really this whole process so far is that so many of the
things that we talked about in the work sessions, so many of the things that I have been looking at when I do my homework and look through this, it's like I have this beautiful draft, but then things have been changed in the draft. And you sent us a great
memo that explains everything that's been changed, but I haven't gotten the finalized version of this. It's it feels sometimes like we're taking shots in the dark when we change these things. And I these decisions I don't take lightly because they affect people's livelihoods.
>> Well, we did >> and they affect the taxpayer. >> Well, we did talk about not freezing salary but employ uh hiring freeze. >> A hiring freeze. Remember >> about I wrote a resolution for it. But
>> we talked about a hiring freeze and a freeze on promoting people from part-time to full-time. I don't remember us agreeing at the um work session to not give everyone an increment who's not in the union. I don't remember us
agreeing on that. So like does anyone else remember us saying that as a consensus when we created the list that we gave to the administration of what we'd like to see changed? I don't remember that being on the list. >> No, but on the list was hiring for >> that was on the list. And >> yes,
>> if there was a need to arise, then we look at it at that time. >> Mhm. >> Um, >> but I that Yeah, I've >> Anybody else? >> Any thoughts real quick? Um, >> I just just so everyone's aware that we
don't sit there and just make part- timerrs full-timers. Um, we we try to and especially when we when we lost the full-timer, we we I think replaced it with two part- timerrs. um when you start adding full-timers, there's that
huge number you have to come up with for the benefit part of it. It's not just the salary part, which is, you know, average, right? But it's the it's the benefit package that goes along with it that it could be, you know, if it's a single coverage or family coverage,
right? That really changes the numbers drastically. And you always have to budget for the family, right? So, we're not So, just so everyone was clear, we're we're not converting our part-times to full-times. That that that's a lot that we have to we have to
caution. >> It happens. It does happen. Um and the part-times, I know we talked about the part- timerrs as strictly getting paid, you know, $15 an hour or whatever, but you know, we do pay into a 401 for them,
a 3%. So I think you we asked you that and you didn't know that but since we found out that >> pay 3% for each they have like a pension. Part-timers have a pension so it costs
us more than just the hourly rate um when you say you're saving on part- timerrs. But that's not even the issue at the moment >> and it's limited the the amount of hours that the part-timers work. Um, like I said, I think the majority were down in
the kitchen area and some of that got eight hours a week, 10 hours. I mean, it's not that many hours. >> Sandy, may I say something? >> Yes, go ahead. >> So, I think the purpose of the um hiring freeze and part-time to full-time freeze is not
>> it doesn't do with, you know, think that everyone's getting promoted and it's out of control. It's that with the budget being this constrictive and with us really trying to narrow things down, bring the tax increment down, we want to
just say, let's keep everything that we have and not expand. That's the reason that we were suggesting that we don't want to see people take on more and get paid more. We don't want to see more people being hired. Just keep it the way it is while we navigate this really
difficult budget. That's the reason that we were suggesting that. I don't think that's that unreasonable and I don't think and I just want to make sure everyone understands the intention that we're proposing when we say that because that's where it's coming from.
>> Yes. So, is that a good alternative? >> It's up to the mayor now. I think I'm willing to drop that if if we get if we get the if we get the hiring freeze on a temporary basis. let us work with the budget. >> Yeah, we're we're not we're not looking,
like I said, unless unless an employee uh quit, that's the only time we usually replace that employee. Um we're not we're not looking to uh create full-timers out of our part- timerrs. So, >> so then it shouldn't matter to you if we
officially put a freeze on it. >> The other thing, too, you're you're passing the budget, so you're giving the administration x amount of dollars for the employees. So, if that money doesn't have a a big number for a new full-time employee, you can't do that. You can't
hire people. >> There still is money in the salary. Even though the money was pulled out and put into that line, there's still money sitting in that that line item. It's only going to be like less than like about $1,500 when I'm all said and done giving all the increases
>> that you said it all over in the budget already. >> So, they I think they took out the two. What do you do? give mayor two 2 and a2% 3% >> 3% >> so for all those non-union people who get that already >> they had budgeted that prior was around
four 49,000 or so >> CFO put it at 50 so all they're doing is giving the the non union people 3% cost >> but there's still more money sitting in the salary lines so technically that should the salary
and wages should be zero because that money should be in with the adjustable salary line. >> That may be the kind. >> So why is >> So right now So right now to use an example I'll use right now uh planning
and zoning their budgets um about $4,000 or $5,000 shy give or take to give the increases. So where that money is is in this salary line item. So again, I have a list of every employee >> how much I need out of that $50,000 to
their line item >> to cover their raises, right? >> Once they get their raises, the I'm going to need this money to cover it. It's not that money can't go anywhere else. >> No, I get that. But still, even though you've moved money over, there might be
$10,000 still in that salary line item. >> Well, I mean, if there was, for $10,000, you're not getting a full-time employee. And the reason why I'm extra money is more, some is more because think of it that if they're part-time now, all
you have to do is add a few thousand to make them full-time. So, it could be just a little bit of money in there and still >> being full-timers. Unless someone leaves that's full-time, we replace with a full-timer. We're not looking to make part-time. >> Well, but generally throughout the
years, that's what has happened. And nothing has really ch. Yes, we have five people in fire prevention. What change that requires five people in that department? It's not like we have a big metropolitan
apartment complexes. And so I see it myself. Um, so I I I I think it has to be controlled in some way. I mean, fire never had five
people in that department. Be it part-time, you have two clerks, you have three inspectors, but nothing has changed in the town over the years. I I we're growing government, and I don't see any changes that require it.
>> Mr. Mayor, if I were you, you would just I would just say yes. You've already said you have no intention. >> Yes, that's correct. I have no intentions. Correct. Well, why don't you just take the no intention and say I agree that there there's a hiring freeze for the rest of this year and be done with it and then everybody gets their
race >> and I have a I wrote the resolution so we can initiate the resolution at the next meeting. >> So there done finished. >> You go.
>> Say it. >> Okay. >> Say it. We'll introduce we'll >> we'll add that resolution. >> So well that would be at the next meeting. >> At the next meeting. Yeah. I mean we had it in this but it was pulled so we can
add it in the next one. >> Okay. >> Good. Next time I'm buying a car, you're coming with me. >> Who? >> You. >> Okay. >> So let's go buy something nice. >> Then the motion is on the floor as amended. >> So I think you you're you're saying you
can now vote on that. That won't >> Well, you that's the amended. So, we're going to vote to introduce the 2026 budget >> as >> amended as amended. >> Just ask for a roll call now if everyone else has done it.
>> Okay. Roll call. member conc. >> So, every question I've asked I've gotten a good answer to, but I feel like I still rushed a bit and I just wish that I had
like this binder here and more to explore before I vote. So, I can't in good conscience vote to introduce it now. So my vote is a no. >> Council member Olms, >> yes. >> Council member Rudo,
>> yes. >> Council member Sparta, >> yes. >> Council President Higgins, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay. Introduction. First reading. Um, introduction of ordinance. Let me find them now.
back in the back 608. >> Yeah, I got them here. >> Do I have to read them by title? >> Yes, by title. So, this number and title. >> Yeah. Ordinance 2608, an ordinance of the township of Vernon
in the county of Sussex, New Jersey, adopting a redevelopment plan for block 405, lot 8 on the official tax maps of the township. May I have a motion to introduce
ordinance 26-08? >> Moved. >> Second. Second. >> Roll call. >> Council member Canino? >> Yes. >> Member Olms? >> Yes. >> Council member Ruda? >> Yes. >> Council member Sparta? >> Yes.
>> Council President, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay. Um, ordinance 26-09, an ordinance amending chapter 330, land use and development regulation,
article 11, zoning, section 330-160, schedule of permitted conditional and accessory uses and structures of the revised general ordinances of the township of Vernon to permit food trucks as an accessory use to wineries,
breweries, and distill distilleries in accordance with New Jersey law. So, may I have a motion to introduce 26-09? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Second. >> Roll call. Council
>> member. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. Sparta. >> Yes. >> President Higgins. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay. Uh, ordinance 26-10,
an ordinance amending the Vernon Township Administration Code, Chapter 350, Long-Term Rentals. Chapter 263, Fire Prevention. Chapter 167, Business Insurance Regulation.
Chapter 476, Short-Term Rentals. May I have a motion to introduce ordinance 26-10? >> So moved. >> Second. Roll call. >> I'm sorry. Who seconded that?
>> Who? Carl, did you second it? No, I can if you need something. >> I second it. >> Oh, didn't I? I was quiet at this time. >> Council member Canino, >> yes. >> Council member Ols, >> yes. >> Council member Rudo, >> yes. >> Council member Sparta, >> yes.
>> Council President Hickey, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay, moving along. I want to find my own. Hold on one second. Seven. >> This is going to be the second reading.
So, it's public hearing on ordinance 2607. >> Yeah, I just want to find mine. >> No, I got it. Thank you, Pat. Thank you. >> Okay. The second reading or a public hearing for ordinance
um an ordinance of the township of Vernon in the county of Sussex, New Jersey, amending the McAfee Village commercial resort development plan. May I have a motion to open the public hearing for ordinance 26-07?
>> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> would anybody like to step up >> to the podium? >> No. Um, may I have a motion to close
public comment? >> Moved. >> No, this is just on the ordinance. >> The ordinance. >> Um, oh, I'm sorry. So, we have a second. >> Yeah. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? >> Sorry, I didn't get the motion or the
second. Who made >> it was Pat and then me? >> Thank you. >> So, may I have a motion to adopt ordinance 26-07? >> 07 rather. >> Motion. >> I motioned. >> Second.
>> Second. >> Roll call. >> Council member Kino. >> Yes. >> Council member Ols. >> Yes. Council member Rudo. >> Yes. >> Council member Sparta. >> Yes. >> Council President Higgins. >> Yes. >> Motion carried.
>> Okay. I'd like to open um the floor to public comment. Limited to five minutes on any topic. Motion to open public comment. So moved. Second. >> All in favor? I I.
>> Any opposed? Anybody like to um come up for public comment? Five minutes on any topic. >> Hi, >> with Highland Lake. I was here February 9th for ordinance 26-2
to vacate Burger Road. It was denied. Uh, so I'm just here to address um any worsement and why nothing has since ordinance was passed. >> Well, could you speak a I can't hear you. I'm sorry. >> No, it's okay. >> I know without this and
>> yeah, so um I was here February 9th for ordinance 26-02 to vacate Burger Road. Um it was denied so the road is still public. Uh, no one ever received the survey to to find out what the boundaries are to get the engineer um to get the survey so
that we could pave the road. Um, I'm just here to see why no one has responded to me. I sent a certified letter to the mayor's office, so the um township clerk and then there was an email sent um on April 13th. And I'm
just here to find out why nothing has been um enforced as far as the boundaries, as far as turnaround, um as far as lake access is still being blocked. Every everyone is turning um it's still backing up um and nothing has changed. So, I'm just here to address
why um nothing has changed. And I know the mayor spoke to the residents of 24 Burger after the hearing. So, I was hoping something will happen. Um we also did notice there was somebody from municipal building on April 13th uh
speaking to the residents of 24 Burger Road. Again, we don't know the content of that conversation. Nothing has been enforced. Um everything is still being blocked. So, I'm just here to find out why. >> Well, I acknowledge I just saw your
email that was >> sent correct that just we just got it. >> Other than that, I haven't gotten anything from um since the ordinance to vacate information. >> Neither have I.
>> But who enforces this situation? Is it zoning? I don't know. or who enforces when they're not when people are blocking a public road. >> So, when I spoke to uh mayor back in
August 2025, um he said, "I have an email saying uh we should just call the police if somebody's blocking it." Then it was >> Oh, who sent you that? I'm sorry. Who sent you? >> Mayor Ross. >> Call the police. >> Mayor Ross. >> Oh, okay. >> Yeah. M
>> um so then there was a directive to DPW to pave up to the portion that was supposed to be vacated back in August of 2025. This obviously prior to the council hearing of on February 2026. Um so there was a huge lag between the
hearing and the paving which I thought was prematurely paved. We should have just waited to see the results of the hearing. Um so it's just there's been like a lack of transparency. I don't know what's going on. The only reason I found out was because I requested Oprah um from the township. Otherwise, I
wouldn't have even known that there was anything going on because nothing's funding to me. So, it was just to ask um responsible for it. I know the zoning department should be the one uh citing that and nothing has been done.
>> Yeah. Well, it would be if zoning is the departments aren't helping you, then it's the mayor. He handles this to make sure that public roads are open, I would think. I mean, where do we direct this young lady
to? If the road is not being open to the public, it's a public road. >> I've driven that road and I didn't see it. Wasn't closed. So, I don't know where we're looking at. Where is it being closed? So off but >> I just feel like that way.
>> Um >> I mean it's it's the mayor to direct the correct department to take care of the situation. I would think >> also I know you mentioned before we're going to get a survey for the for the road and the original project when I
requested the road to be paid for everyone before this whole vacation came up um was to finish the whole road. Right. Oh, I never agreed to paving that whole road. No, that was where we that's where we paved.
>> Going to be vacated and then you paved up. So that >> right reason. Excuse me. I'm sorry. help. >> Um >> that we could arrange direct people to
speak with. >> I think that would be up to the mayor. We can't direct anybody. >> Yeah. >> Um direct it. Yeah. He the mayor directs the department. saying we we can't direct do ask the employees to do
anything. So it would be the mayor that has to direct the employee to enforce the zoning laws of the town. >> Well, what would be the correct procedure for handling this situation where you have a dispute like this? What would the what would the normal correct
course of action be? because I feel like talking about it at a council meeting and it just feels like it's not the right way to handle this. And if she's not getting a response, obviously she should be getting a response. But what what is the correct way to handle this?
>> What are you referring to? Am I referring to code enforcement or we >> code enforcement paving the road in surveys? Like I >> But like if if she's saying that >> nobody knows any boundaries. So when people walk, they just walk up to the paved um portion of it because it is
misleading. It is confusing. If you go up there, you you'll know there's a no turnaround sign. There's like a bunch of signs. Looks like the parkway because there's just bastard signs all over. And there's no paved road, so nobody knows where to walk, where to turn around. There's just nothing there.
>> It sounds like someone should go professionally and look at what's going on. That That's >> We did. We had our engineer go up there. He gave a recommendation to vacate the property. >> Okay. We didn't want to vacate the property. So, what do we do now? Would
go up there and see what needs to be done because if there's still a conflict and the recommendation has been to call the police. Feel like that's not a good thing to do. >> If someone's blocking a road, then then you have to call the police.
And I just feel like this is something that talking about it here isn't going to accomplish too much. >> You shouldn't be. But that's my recommendation. Call the police if someone's blocking a road. >> So what as far as paving the road?
What's the >> that's I can't have that discussion here in this forum. >> Was it ever slated to be paved? Was it supposed to be paved at one point? To be honest with you, I I was shocked that we even paved that road to begin
with. So, um, >> but was it slated to be paved that morning? No, >> not not at this. It's not on our list to be paved. We're done with that. We're done with that paving on that street. >> So, when >> there is no turnaround, uh, the engineer made that clear. Not big enough for a
turnaround. Um, the paving stops at that line, >> but that's not where the road stops. >> I don't want to be buzz, but I showed it five minutes earlier. >> Yeah, I I I said that. I said that when I came in.
>> Oh, no. Um, Evening Dorian Edwards Highland Lakes. I just have a couple of points of interest I wanted to address. So I might be a little bit all over the place. Um first thing I have written down I went to the first I saw the um two budget workshops
for our town online and I learned a lot and maybe people could listen more and we'll learn more. Um, I also went to the county um, budget meeting and if I'm not mistaken, I think they said somewhere along there or in the pamphlet that they
gave out that the county fire prevention people can also lend a hand to each township. That's something to keep in mind. You know, if we have all these employees, maybe we really didn't need that in that department. Um, before I forget, there's people asking me about
Zoom. Um, this was mentioned during the town council meetings. Are you going to address that? Say yay or nay? You're going to do that? I mean, the board of ed has it that the participants can call in with questions and so does um what's
the other department? Oh, Vernon MUA. So, would like to know, are you going to put that back up on uh consideration? >> I think that's going to be a discussion for the council. Thank you. Um I've heard many times saying that the garbage
uh in regards to the garbage I'm neither pro or against, but I'm just saying I've heard many times, oh that's just temporary with the price. No, I've gotten NQ to do my garbage for $30 a month. So that's $90 a quarter.
>> That That's >> Who is it? NQ. >> NQ. >> That's the name of the >> show. And there's NQ. >> Oh, okay. Interesting. >> Up in Highland Lakes. So, I changed from WM to NFI and so far I'm happy with their services. So, that's for three
years. They're locked in for three years for that. >> For $30 a month. >> Yes. >> No, I'm glad you're bringing that information here. Yes. >> Um, Mand is a road in Highland Lakes. And if you remember, that generator was on a piece of property, I think, under
Howard Burell's administration that we accidentally sold and then had to buy it back. So, I don't know if you ever if you're a history person, you like to look in, but I I remember that specifically. >> Um, so what is in place when
the um Vernon um MUA bills us? How do we know we get it back? What is the procedure there to make sure that Yes. Okay. dotting our eyes and crossing our tees. Bill submitted, bill paid. >> We'll have to look for it on the bills list or how what Patty would. So that's
why we so that's why I put money in revenue and then that's why I have it in both sides because one side is me paying what I have to pay then the revenue on the revenue side it's reminding me >> okay so one column done >> right so the revenue is saying that's
the money I need to collect in me paying it out >> how long does it usually take to get the payment >> um >> weeks or quicker than that >> again uh I'll be billing my first one since I've been here eye on it. Keep an eye on it.
>> Let's see. >> So, basically, what increase are we looking at for the budget? 5%. Is that what >> six? It's six. I thought with Oh, okay. Because of the the the uh heads increases, the department heads
increases. Then it's still at six. I thought it was went to five. >> It was going to be shy of six at one point, like 5.8. I think it's like 5.95 or something like that. Yeah. Yeah. Under six. >> All right.
>> Okay. Why are we paying for recycling? I mean, besides an employee, and I remember years ago saying, "Why the heck are we paying somebody to take the recycling away when I know scrappers and other people do recycling? They get paid for it." So the mayor had mentioned that
we pay for recycling. What are we paying for specifically? >> We should we should we think we should be making money, right? To offset. He's not answering me. That's fine. >> He would know how much we make off the
the I'm I'm under the impression that we don't make much money from it anymore, but he would have a better idea. Or Tina might Yeah. >> Why do they pay for recycling?
>> Again, this is these your question. Yeah. >> Well, they're people of the public. I mean, they're taxpayers. We can't just >> You could research it or somebody could research it because, you know, at one time in point, I actually knew people going down there taking cans and then
taking it to a place themselves, a private place, and making money. I'm like, "No, no, don't do that. You're screwing the You're screwing us the taxpayers. And you know, that was a good couple years ago. >> Yeah, I don't think um they make much money on it. Maybe that could be the reason.
>> I guess that's it. I can't really remember um really mean my some of my handwriting. So, thank you and good night. >> Thank you very much for your comments. Thank you. Anybody else like to come up
and make a comment? Come on. Come on. >> They don't work so it doesn't matter. >> I'm also from Glenwood. I just have one very quick comment. Wanted to thank you all for working so hard on the budget and I realize that you've been optiscated at every opportunity and
every turn. I thank you for the for the effort you put through trying to get the numbers together for us. Um and and there's one other comment I'd like to make. Although we hear how hard the uh the department heads work in this township, there's someone else that's being overlooked. I know you people work very hard. It's obvious from the
questions and comments we saw. But you know who else works very very hard? The taxpayers. The people who are paying. >> Yes. Agreed. >> And I really need think that needs to be emphasized. I thank you for your efforts on that behalf. So the taxpayers work very very hard. Thank you again.
>> Agreed. Thank you. Anybody else? Okay, seeing um there's no other people that want to make comment, um I'd like to make a motion to close public comment. >> So, a second.
>> All in favor? >> I I >> um like to move to um council comments. Um, I want to thank everyone who worked on the budget, especially our C our new CFO and the VA and everyone in ad in the
administration who worked on that because I know it's a very difficult process. Although I did not vote for it, I respect the work that everyone put into it. Um, and I hope that we can continue working on it and get something
that we all are comfortable with. Um, it's really all I have to say. And oh, Patty, I'm glad to see you're better, by the way. >> Thank you, Pat. >> Thank you. Um,
once in a while, hey, not once in a while, I shouldn't put it that way, but sometimes I hear a comment and person will come over and sit down with me and said, you know, I have a question. And I said, what's the question? She said he
said uh regarding the uh use of some of the disposal materials that come into recycling. I said what about it? and they want he wanted to know are we capable of burning and I'm asking
this of our director of uh DPW and are we are we capable of burning waste oil in our own facility? I don't I didn't know because I don't know if
there's something in it. >> That question a long time ago because I know there are some heating systems that that you can but I don't believe ours can do that. >> Maybe Oh should am I correct on that? >> That our heating systems the disposable
oil that we get we can't heat our systems with that. Correct? >> No. >> No. Is it because just can't take it or the system whatever >> have to recycle clean it ourselves in order to put it back into that. >> Okay.
>> The oil with that years ago we used to we used to get rid of it for free. We used to actually get money for it. Now we're paying >> to get rid of it. Yeah. >> Get rid of it. So that's why we put the ordinance in to cut the cost in half a little bit. >> Yeah. Okay. Thank you very much. Gives
me an answer. I appreciate it. Um, again, thank you council for working together to bring this introduction to a uh into a conclusion. Now, we'll review it
and uh see where we go from here. Um, weather's getting nicer. Children are going to be out on on the streets. Please, let's keep an eye on them. And uh uh again, good to see you back. Thank
you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, just >> one one one other thing. I I did have something um >> recently there was an a the resolution of a long-term
crime that won't be this and many people probably at that time since then have never been you know weren't here then but we uh many of us who were longtime residents remember that. What a
shocking uh thing that it was that we had to hear about it, especially for a very nice young woman. And I don't didn't know her personally, but only through uh people
who were uh recalling her their their uh meeting her. Uh it was I'm happy that they were able to bring the individual to justice. I hope that justice is meed out quickly and severely. And uh I want
to thank our police department for involving themselves and working with the uh cooperating agencies to uh bring this individ individual to justice and I thank them and uh please pass on my
compliments to the members of this the the force and to our chief. Um, thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Mazudos going to mention the same thing. So, um, ditto to that and thank you, um,
Patty. I was the first budget here and it think it went pretty smooth and you were only >> get better. >> It will only get better. >> Yeah. And there's some things, you know, going I would like to see we really have to start working on the next budget.
Right. >> Enough. >> And um I'd like to see on the budget the the capital itemized. That's what I'd like to see for the next. So people, like you said, there's a separate document. When will this budget be
available to the public? >> So now that it's been introduced, I tomorrow. And then we'll be putting it on. So nowadays they don't advertise in the newspaper anymore. We have to advertise um on our website a legal page. So, that's going on. I think we
have it advertised to go on for the April 27th. It'll be on our legal page also on the website. >> Okay. Will we have copies at the clerk's office that people can take if they choose to? >> Okay. So, that's good to know.
>> Paper copies at the clerk's office. And like I said, it will be online on April 27th. >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Welcome. >> Thank you so much. Anybody else have any comment? >> Uh, just, you know, I I had written down
here too and and Pat and and Sandy stole the thunder here, but you know, the Vernon police and the state police and county prosecutor's office solving Lisa McBride cases from 35 years old. This goes to show you that these cold cases that you see on TV, they can
happen, they can actually be solved right here in your in your little hometown here. So, um, I did reach out to the chief and congratulated him on the work that they had done and and he was ecstatic that they were they just never gave up on it and through advances
in in DA DNA technology, they were able to uh to catch the accused perpetrator of of what happened. So, kudos to our police department who uh do a great job day in and day out. Um actually the officer sitting outside
responded to my parents house two weeks ago again uh for my mother and um you know the care that the care that they give to our our community is really second to none in my eyes and um you
know to to have care like that to a family member but then at the same time um still concentrating on something that was 35 years old uh I think really speaks to the dedication that our department has. So, thanks to them. >> Um, and great to see you back. Um,
looking well, >> feeling better. >> Thank you. >> Just note our chief was at court today for the arraignment of that individual. So, >> yeah, >> we'll see what uh how that case plays out. So,
>> that's all I have. >> Mr. Higgins, >> yes, one last comment. uh the the actual presentation of the budget. This one was different from anything I've sat through because well, we we on the council have been working on this for quite a while,
probably six weeks with a couple different renditions. New CFO was ill the last time. And so this meeting was the mayor running the meeting, reading off of his phone a lot of statistics. It didn't mean much to the public. meant
something to us because you we were searching this uh this budget for quite a while. So my suggestion would be Patty, you probably presented budgets in the past and uh you know we've been through this process in Vernon many times here on the school board and it's
basically the mayor introducing it, turning it over to the CFO. You're the one that put it together, overhead slides, some kind of presentation, and uh if you could work towards that next year, I'd appreciate it because it's really you're the one that knows all the
details. This one was here's the budget and then ask Patty questions rather than Patty saying here's the budget. So >> usually I normally just speak about it but I can look and see what they did in the past and try to come up with something.
>> Yes. Yeah. You you'll see previous uh videos of it and all and uh >> Okay. >> Just a comment suggestion. >> Gotcha. >> Well well done. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. like to make a motion to adjurnn. >> So moved. Second.
>> All in favor? >> I >> I. >> All oppose. He's opposed. Oh boy.