Good evening everyone. Thank you for coming. Um tonight is our bianial reorganization meeting of our township council. We um council of Verona and the council had moved their municipal election from May to November. So this
November for the first time the Verona council was on the general election ballot. Um, so I'd like to welcome everyone and if you would just please stand and join me in the pledge of allegiance. >> I aliance to the flag of the United
States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Um, sorry. Sorry. Don't touch your mic.
>> Um, before we start, I just want to recognize some people that have joined us tonight. Um, first, our state senator, Kristen Curado. Welcome. Our state assemblyman, Mr. Al Baras. State Assemblyman, uh, Christopher D.
Phillips. Welcome. Our county commissioner, Lenny Luciano. There he is. I'm sorry. Our uh, Essex County Deputy Administrator, director of purchasing, and the county liaison to the township
of Verona, Mr. Jay Coltray. We have uh former council woman Katherine Tamisk. And we have our for previous uh Memorial Day grand marshal John Lacresto. >> We have chairperson from the planning
board and the environmental uh commission Jessica Pearson. with chairperson of our parks and rec advisory committee, Mr. Corey Shore. I'm almost done. Fire Chief Nick Palino, building code and construction code
official Thomas Jacobson, and our newly appointed uh director of community affairs, Pam Pristo. Also joining us is our public information officer, Lisa North. Okay. So, first thing I will do is I
will start the meeting with the open public meetings statement. The notice requirements of this open public meeting has been satisfied with respect to the meeting of the township council. specifically the time and date were included in the public publication of the annual meeting notice. This
information along with the public internet link and telephone call and information was sent to the official newspapers of the township, the Verona Sudgrove Times and Star Ledger at least 48 hours preceding the start time of this meeting and posted on the legal notices web page of the Verona Township
website. The agenda can be viewed online at vereronj.org/counsil meetings. A public comment period will be held listed on the agenda and instructions on how to comment will be provided at the appropriate time. Okay. So at
this time I would like to begin the swearing in ceremonies and at the same time I will distribute the election certificates so we're not all walking back and forth. So um Miss Cynthia
Holland, would you join me? Would the family like this >> that they have to take off their hoodies? >> Oh, you guys look so tiny. >> No, I'm not kidding. >> You also have to stand up straight.
Who's going to hold that? >> Stand over here. So, so you can put your um raise your left hand and put your face. >> Okay. >> Yeah, that'll work. Is that >> work? Does this work? Work >> at the right angle. >> I can go.
>> I want I don't want to be here. You know this, right? >> I will repeat after you. I don't >> I Cynthia Holland >> I Cynthia Holland >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States
>> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith >> that I will bear true faith >> and allegiance to the same >> and allegiance to the same >> and to the governments established in
the United states >> and to the governments established in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully >> and that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly >> and justly
>> perform all the duties of the position of council member at large >> all the duties >> perform all the duties >> the position of >> perform all the duties of the position of of council member at charge >> for the township of Verona
>> for the township of Verona >> according to the best of my ability. >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> Quickly present you with this. >> Okay, I will. But I'd like to present you with our certificate of election >> from the municipal clerk. Yes. And it is
framed that I had to top the county. >> Thank you. You'd like to say something? >> Yes, I would. Thank you guys for coming. There you go. >> How about a picture? >> Oh, can we get a picture? >> Yeah. Yeah. Take a picture. >> Thank you.
>> I was >> um good evening everyone. I will keep my remarks short. Um, I know it's a Monday night at the end of a long weekend, but I do just want to say thank you to the entire community for continuing to have confidence in me um and electing me to
serve. Um, it is a tremendous honor and I'm deeply humbled um to be able to serve the people of Verona. At a time where cynicism can run rampant, the people of Verona elected a woman whose
platform was simply integrity. Right? I said I was going to do things and I did do them. I ran on my record. I intended to keep my promises when I ran four years ago. And that is a message that I continue to offer the community and that
I will bring forward into this second term in office. So again, I just want to thank the people of Verona. I want to thank my family for all the sacrifices that they have to do, the least of which being having to take off their hoodies on a very cold January night. Um, but thank you. There's a lot of personal
sacrifice that goes into serving the greater community, but I do think that it is a um tremendous value and I do really really want to continue to inspire both my daughters as well as other women to run for office and serve
their community because I think it is so important. So, thank you again and have a great evening. Thank you so much. >> I love the frame. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, Mr. Would you please join me up at
the lecture? I'll have to stand closer so they can hear you. >> Put your right hand. Put your left hand down. Don't burn your hand. >> Raise your right hand. >> I Jack Mackoy. >> I Jack Mackoy. do solemnly swear
>> do solemnly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith >> that I will bear true faith >> and allegiance >> and allegiance
>> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments >> and to the governments >> established in the United States >> established in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that And I will faithfully >> And I will faithfully >> and partially
>> and partially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of the position of council member at large >> of the position of council member at large >> for the township of Verona >> the township of Verona >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of our ability. So
help me God. >> Congratulations. Here is your certificate of election. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Would you like to see? >> Yes, sure. >> Want to take that? >> Okay.
Thank you everyone. I just want to go through a brief history of my time on the council. Uh it's been an honor serving on the Verona Town Council since 2017, and I'd like to thank the residents of Verona for putting their
trust in me for another four years. In the years just prior to me joining the council, studies conducted had shown future councils would need to upgrade facilities and infrastructure. infrastructure such as our underground utilities, both
sewer and storm water, our water treatment plant, firehouse 2, the rescue squad building, the police station, town hall, the library, and others. A dauntingly long list. We started to work on those plans, providing for the
library updates and various improvements at town hall. But as usual, obstacles presented themselves. First, we were slowed by an affordable housing mandate that consumed valuable time and upwards of 20 million plus
dollars. But I emphasize valuable time for several years. And during the time we were making decisions on affordable housing plans and land purchases to preserve green space, we encountered CO
another hurdle that set us back in both time and money. As we emerged from those setbacks, we were able to focus on the needs of Verona. We pro progressed quickly. In the years I've been on the council, we have accomplished a great deal. We
have done a major renovation on the library, town hall building improvements, smoke tested and started improvements on our wastewater conveyance system, numerance numerous water main replacement repairs and roadway replacements, numerous building
improvements, well upgrades with PAS filtration systems, athletic fields and playground upgrades, Verona pool improvements, and much more. It's a long list. Many of these accomplishments have been made over this last six plus years,
but there are many more ahead, and that is why I decided to return for another four-year term. I'm focused on moving forward with what Verona still needs in the coming years. We need to work with our county officials to improve the safety along
our Bloomfield Avenue corridor and other main roadways. We need to continue improvements on our aging wastewater treatment plant. This council has to unite and come to an agreement on a public safety building. Our police and
firefighters and my colleagues all agree need to have safe, proper facilities and appropriate equipment to protect and serve the residents of Verona. and not just the residents that live here today, but those that will be here in years to
come. Now, I know these improvements will be costly, but the longer we take to decide, the higher the cost to complete these projects will be. We as council members and residents have to look at the long term as well as the short term and realize the public safety
building will be a 75 to 100year investment in Verona. We cannot put off improving what this town needs today because it will only put a heavier burden on future taxpayers. On this momentous Martin Luther King Jr.
holiday, I thank my council colleagues and all the volunteer residents again for all they do for the township of Verona. Volunteerism, civic service, community engagement, and civil rights should be embraced and exercised to the
fullest degree today and every day. My goal is to move forward in a direction that most Verona residents can agree with, although there will be a few that will not. I will always do my best to sit down, have a conversation, and
listen to those that propose other solutions for our township. I want to thank everybody for coming tonight, especially our dignitaries. I won't go through the list because the clerk did a great job of naming everybody and welcoming you, but thank you for your
support during the years. Dr. Jamber, our Assemblyman Al Baras will be swearing in Dr. Chamb and You're on camera. Sure. You're on camera.
Right hand. Ready to go. I >> I, >> Dr. Christopher H. Tambbero >> Dr. Christopher H. Tambor >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support >> that I will support >> the Constitution >> the Constitution >> of the United States >> of the United States >> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution
>> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> that I will bear >> that I will bear >> true faith and allegiance >> true faith and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments >> and to the governments >> established >> established >> in the United States >> to the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state >> under the authority
>> under the authority >> of the people >> of the people >> and that I will >> and that I faithfully, >> faithfully, >> impartially, >> impartially, >> and justly >> justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of the position of >> of the position of >> council member at large >> council member at large >> for the township of Verona
>> for the township of Verona >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. Madam clerk, I got >> Thank you. >> Go ahead. Keep >> No, no.
>> Good job. >> Hey, try Well, over the next 45 minutes, I will give a lengthy history of Verona. Uh, good evening, Verona residents, distinguished guests, township staff, family, and friends. Taking the oath of
office this evening is both a celebratory occasion and a solemn reminder of the trust the public has placed in us to lead Verona with stewardship, foresight, intelligence, compassion, and ethical decision-making. I am humbled to have been reelected to
serve this vibrant community that I have loved for the past 18 years and remain committed to representing our residents to the best of my ability. Thank you to Assemblyman Barless for swearing me in. He, Senator Curado, and Assemblyman to
Phillips have been great supporters of Verona since they started representing us in the state house. I look forward to continued collaboration with their offices and service of our residents. I'd also like to thank Commissioner Len Luciano for joining us tonight. The county has also been great support of Verona, especially with road projects uh
in the past few years, and we're looking forward to more. Uh thank you, Commissioner. Um, congratulations to council members Makavoy and Holland on their re-elections. They've each demonstrated commitment to addressing the many challenges that have faced our town over
the past four years and have shared their expertise and energy for the betterment of our community. I look forward to working with them throughout this term and thank you to council members Roman and McGrath for their continued service as we continue do the work of Verona. I appreciate the
residents and friends who offered their encouragement and support this fall. It was energizing and heartening to have the backing of people who care so deeply about the future of our town. They inspired me to share my uniting vision in a positive issuesoriented
campaign. Special thank you to my family. My mom, dad, and brother Matt are here in the audience for always believing in me and modeling public service in their lives. They're always there for me and at this point probably know more about the happenings of Verona than their own
towns. A lot of phone calls uh from my heartfelt appreciation to all the Verona residents who participated in November's election. The high turnout ensured that the results were representative of our community's true desires and vision for the future. We must now work
deliberately and tirelessly to fill that promise. It was such a pleasure to speak with so many residents whether at a forum or event on their front porch or a phone call or even in their living rooms. Residents asked great questions and provided constructive feedback that have already informed my votes and will
continue to do so throughout this term. Over the past four and a half years and two weeks, this council has been one of the busiest governing bodies in Verona history. In a time that moved very quickly, we have made necessary and forwardthinking revisions to the
municipal code, approved upgrades to our water infrastructure, made muchneeded facility repairs, approved reconstruction of several roads, approved and started construction on a long overdue upgrade to Everfield, installed the accessible playground that
had experienced so many delays, approved a reasonable affordable housing plan, enhanced public safety through investment in personnel and equipment. took informed measures to secure the future of the Verona community pool and made meaningful efforts to begin the
process of solving decades old problems with our public safety infrastructure. And remarkably, this is just a small sampling of the dozens of initiatives that have been completed in the service of this town. Thank you to all the township staff who
execute our vision for Verona by working diligently to manage project while supporting residents, ensuring public safety, and keeping the town operating seamlessly. I'd like to take a minute to especially recognize Tom Jacobson, our
construction code official, who will be attending his last tonight is attending his last organizational meeting as a staff member after a half a century of service to Verona. >> Wow, >> Tom, I don't know what we're gonna do without you. So, we have a for a couple
more months, right? So, which is good. Um, we're fortunate to have an excellent missiondriven team that cares deeply about this community. Verona is such a special place, and I always be grateful for the staff's efforts in making it so.
I am similarly appreciative of the efforts of our boards, commissions, and committee members whose work and recommendations are vital to ensuring that we identify and meet community needs. As we look ahead, it is important that we establish clear objectives for
the next two, four, and 10 years. In the meantime, our immediate goals must include prioritizing the approvals of final plans and beginning construction on a cost-effective public safety facility. We need to continue to negotiate with developers to reduce unit and bedroom counts and establish design
standards to limit the impact of new construction on our community. It is vital that our trust fund be used to acquire additional property to preserve open space without delay. It will be necessary to analyze real-time data to assess efforts that we have made to
ensure the viability of the Verona pool. We must work diligently and intelligently to secure Verona's future. As we begin this term, I renew my commitments to always work for Verona and to put service above politics. Our town will benefit the most when the
council's focused entirely on our responsibility to make decisions which serve the best interests of the community while always remembering that our primary role is to serve the needs of the public before our own. With a shared vision, we will ensure the best government for the best Verona and
together we can ensure an even brighter town in the coming years. Thank you very much. Thank you. Congratulations, Tommy. I didn't know. Okay, I'm gonna kind of >> township code chapter 5 section 14
mandates that after in January following an election the council will shall organize and elect one of the council persons as mayor. The mayor shall be chosen by majority vote of all the members of the council. The members shall be unable within five votes to be taken within two days of the
organization meeting to elect the mayor who the may member who was in the last election for members of the council received the greatest number of votes shall be mayor. The same time as the mayor is elected. The council shall elect one of its mayors as deputy mayor and each shall
serve for a term of two years beginning on the day of the meet organization meeting following each election of the council. So at this time we'll have the council. Sorry, give me one section. Make sure I do this right.
Do I have a at this time? I'm sorry. >> I request nominations for mayor of the township. >> I would like to nominate Dr. Christopher Tambbor for mayor. >> Are there a second?
>> I would like to second that nomination. Okay, at this time I'll call the role. Are there any other nominations before I move forward? >> I'll call the role. This will be alphabetical because we don't have any uh hierarchies yet. Councilwoman
Holland, >> no. >> Councilman Makavoy, >> yes. >> Councilwoman McGrath, >> no. >> Councilman Roman, >> yes. Councilman Tambboro.
>> Yes. >> Councilman Tambboro is wins the nomination of mayor by a vote of three to two. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Now we'll do the administer the oath of the mayor. >> Oh yeah. Got to do that. And Senator
Curado, would you be >> She will be swearing in our mayor. >> Sorry, what? >> I was going to use your own plate. Sorry. >> Oh. Oh, it's behind. >> Yeah. I need Bible holders.
>> You got this. If I >> It's Matt start. >> Yeah. >> Raise your right hand. Repeat after me. I state your name. I, Christopher Tambbor, >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support >> that I will support >> the Constitution of the United States >> the Constitution of the United States
>> and the Constitution >> and the Constitution >> of the State of New Jersey >> of the state of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith >> that I'll bear true faith >> and allegiance >> and allegiance >> to the same >> to the same >> and to the governments >> and to the governments >> established >> established >> in the United States >> in the United States >> and in this state
>> and in this state >> under the authority >> under the authority >> of the people >> of the people and that I will faithfully >> And that I will faithfully >> impartially >> impartially >> and justly perform >> and justly perform >> all the duties >> all the duties >> of the position >> of the position >> of mayor >> of mayor
>> for the township of Verona >> for the township of Verona >> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> Congratulations Thank you, Senator. Before I turn the meeting over, we'll do
the uh election of our deputy may excuse me, deputy mayor. The process is the same as the election for mayor. Do I have any nominations for a council person as deputy mayor? >> Yes, sir. I'd like to nominate Jack Makavoy for deputy mayor.
>> Second. >> Seconded by. >> Any other nominations? No. I will call the role. >> Councilwoman Holland, >> no. >> Counciloman Mackoy,
>> yes. Councilwoman McGrath, >> no. >> Councilman Roman, >> yes. >> Mayor Tambour, >> yes. >> Council Makavoy, you accept vote to please.
>> Yes. Jessica. >> Oh, I was gonna just do that. I >> I Jack Mackoy >> do solemnly swear >> do solemnly swear >> that I will support >> that I will support >> the >> Constitution of the United States >> Constitution of the United States
>> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey >> that I will bear true faith >> that I will bear true faith >> and allegiance >> and allegiance to the same >> and to the governments >> and to the government >> established in the United state >> established in the United States >> and in this state >> and in this state
>> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people >> and that I will faithfully >> and that I will faithfully >> and partially >> and partially >> and justly >> and justly >> perform all the duties >> perform all the duties >> of the position of deputy mayor >> of the position of deputy mayor >> of the township of Verona >> of the township of Verona
>> according to the best of my ability >> according to the best of my ability so so help me be God >> congratulations Okay, >> I'm taking this. >> You know where we're going. >> Well, at this time I will turn the meeting over to Mayor Tambor. That
concludes our ceremony. Thank you. >> Thank you, Madam Clerk. Anybody who uh wants to make an escape, now's a good time. Why don't we take about a two-minute break and >> we'll be back in two minutes. >> Congratulations.
>> Congratulations. >> Congratulations. Congratulations. Perfect. >> Congratulations. Thanks for those kind words. Good to see you. What? >> No. No. Yes.
Jack win. Perfect. Thank you. Lovely. Thank you. Well, >> I'm ready. It's been a huge practice, right? >> Such magnanimous show up.
Another one of the couple. stunningly >> anyway. Unbelievable. So I have actually served. All right. >> Very similar things. >> You have to be in pictures.
>> And then they're both like, "No, we're going to wear these dresses. Like it's not a July. >> Yeah, they they refuse to wear jackets. >> I'm really curious about with the polar vortex that's coming whether or not the kids will still refuse to wear coats. Like somebody's gonna lose a toe. It's
like all the frostbite. >> I never got out of the house without a jacket. I still >> this time we'll reconvene. Are we uh live, Jen? >> Yes. >> Okay. I'd like to It's not on the agenda, but I'd like to invite Mr.
Coltree, Commissioner Luciano to come forward. >> Mr. Cult. >> Usually, mayor, I have my own time, but I have one of the commissioners here that he's like to say a few words. >> Sure. Luciano. >> Yes. Let me first begin by introducing
myself on the record. Len Luciano, Essex County Commissioner. Uh, I've had the privilege and honor of serving the township of Verona since 2011. And, uh, we were formerly called freeholders. We are now called commissioners. Little
civics lesson. There are nine of us. Four represent all 22 municipalities at large. And the other five are districts. I happen to be your district commissioner. I also live not more than a mile and a half down the road off of Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange. So,
I am not a resident of Verona, but I'm close enough where my four-year-old daughter, she knows all the parks and the layout of the county. Her favorite park is Verona Park. So, I am in Verona more than you guys know. Uh let me start by saying congratulations to the three
council members uh that were sworn in here tonight uh who I have known. I have followed your record. I think you guys are going to do a fantastic job over the next four years, which is actually interesting because many of the council uh members that are elected in Essex County are three-year terms. So, a
four-year term is a real long time to get things done before you actually have to worry about reelection. To the mayor, Dr. Tamburo, um to the deputy mayor, uh Jack Makavoy, uh you know, my condolences to you. No,
all kidding aside, no. I I know that sometimes, you know, leadership can be thankless, but um you know, good luck with it. And uh you know, again, I think your community is fantastic. Uh just because I know from the 11 communities I represent, and I had just mentioned it
to Brian, I rarely get any emails or phone calls from residents of Verona. And most of the residents that I get phone calls and emails from, they're not usually that nice and they're nasty and they're not happy in their community. So, I know a lot of folks are pretty happy in this community. And again, we
at the county, our county executive who has served for, I think, six terms, uh, going on seven, he did announce he was running for reelection, is being run, uh, by, I think, some great, uh, legislators and a great executive. Jod D just announced last week that our county
portion of our taxes in 2026 will be 1.73 and I don't really think we could uh skimp and to get it done any better without cutting or losing any services. So if there's anything that we can collaborate with, anything you guys would like to see better, road projects,
infrastructure, uh you know, it's about maintaining our taxes, it's about public safety, and it's about quality of life. since I've been on the board. That is the three things that I like to, you know, say is our punch list and want to continue. And of course, we're here to support. We believe in home rule as we
always has. I know you have had projects on Bloomfield Avenue, which is a county road. Whatever the township believed, we usually follow suit at the county level. So again, you know, I know you're in good hands with Mr. Jay Coltry. Uh he'll tell you that I spend not just time at
the county with him, but I am like family. we do Christmas Eve together, always at his house. So, I know you're in good hands with a good gentleman um that is a great liaison to the county and if there's again anything that I can do to support, I am a phone call or an
email away. So, congratulations to everyone and good to see you. Happy New Year. >> Thank you, Commissioner. >> Thank you. >> Good evening, Mayor Council. Congratulations to the three council people who are just reelected. And I
enjoy coming here. Uh my wife usually says, you know, where you going on Monday nights? I'm going to Verona. So, and I actually do enjoy coming and finding out information on what's going on. I only have one thing on the agenda and it has started already and it's the
our deer management program. Uh the dates for Hilltop, two of them have already passed already. January 8th, January 15th, January 22nd, and 29th, February 5th, 12th, and 19th. And there
will be makeup days. But if you're looking for more information, you can call 973-621-4400. And on behalf of the county executive, congratulations. And like the commissioner said, whatever you need, please reach out. I've had
been speaking to the manager and the deputy manager and I'm getting emails already tomorrow morning. >> So on behalf of the county executive again, congratulations. Any comments that you need from me at this particular time?
>> Mr. Just just say thank you to both of you for um the county's ongoing commitment to Verona. Um every time that we do a project here um whether it's a building, a recreational facility, there's usually block grant dollars involved. you continuously maintain our our you know the county roads throughout
the community. Um and to see the level of infrastructure investment that the county is able to do and to report that low of a budget increase is is pretty impressive. It's a very well-run operation and we appreciate the partnership um always. Thank you very much. Uh Jay, thank you for your
reminders about Kips Castle throughout the entire holiday season. Uh I made it up there. It was absolutely beautiful. So that was again just an example. That's one of my favorite examples of the uh county really working in Verona to preserve um our history and to create a public asset like that. So just again, thank you to both of you for everything
that you do for us. >> Thank you, Jay. >> Thank you. Have a good night. >> You too. >> This time I will call for the town manager report. Miss Russell. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um I will start by putting on the record
uh three um three sets of appointments uh for the 2026 calendar year. The first is uh an appointment to the planning board. I'll be appointing myself as the class 2 member with term expiring 123126.
uh for the uh commissioners for the New Jersey Intergovernmental Insurance Fund, I will be serving as the commissioner and the deputy manager, Michael Krauss, will be serving as the alternate commissioner, both with terms expiring 123126. And the last set of appointments would
be for the Bergen Municipal Employment Benefits Fund. It's the Gateway BMED. That is uh that will be Michael Krauss serving as commissioner and Jen Mascara serving as the alternate commissioner. It's a lot of commissioners, Mr. We just had another one here just just raising.
>> Yes, this is true. Uh I will go through and I'll just hit a few of the highlights from my report. Uh we we have a number of construction projects. Uh many of them are struggling through the winter months. Uh I will highlight the Ever Field project. Um it's one of the
most visible projects, but the uh the contractor was able to resume and get some construction done the past two weeks. Uh again, unfortunately, we now find ourselves in a little bit of a holding pattern waiting for the snow to melt and for him to be able to get back
out and continue construction, but uh he was able to get uh some fencing work, uh curving work, parking lot was prepped, ready for for paving. uh there is a lot of work that we do have to hold off until the the snow melts again. Now, at
this point, uh the fieldhouse project is continuing. Uh VBSL has continued through construction. It's passed uh all the rough inspections and they are looking to do the finishing work on the interior of the building at this point. And the building looks uh very nice. Uh
there is also a pending change order on tonight's resolution, which we've discussed at previous meetings. Uh it's largely centered on additional earth work, some additional rock removal, and additional tree removals and tree plantings, but the total increase is an
increase of $83,546. Uh we have a number of other projects that should be starting. Uh again, these are all weather dependent. uh from road paving projects like Lynden Avenue, our Pekman River stabilization project um and some of our uh our Fair View
Avenue drinking well and our Clarage pump station projects. Those are all uh somewhat on hold for both material deliveries and warmer weather. Um the uh I will also touch on the uh flood control advisory board meeting. We did have a meeting with uh flood control
advisory board uh this last week. Uh it was the first meeting of all four municipalities of the newly expanded board. Um there were some good discussions on a number of items. The the um the group did collectively agree that there were two grant uh grant
opportunities that uh collective pursuit would um was recommended. So that's the resilient New Jersey funding opportunity for some flooding mitigation forms of projects. Uh when those details are uh are released later this year, we'll be
looking for a resolution to support that application. And then there's also a local efficiency achievement program grant application which would be uh for pursuit of a uh a grant to help offset costs of a shared service between the four municipalities for sewer and jeter
equipment. Um, I will uh I'll I'll end my report on that unless there's any questions from the uh the council on any items in my report. >> Just one quick one. I a quick question,
but uh to see if this is going to go on. Uh Everett, I know it's they did a great job last week and I know you guys pushed them, so good job with that. uh they have a lot of the plant the trees planted. Uh there's no deer protection around them and obviously with the snow
deer are going to be looking for other things. We don't want to lose any of them. So if they can work on that, okay, >> in the coming week, two weeks, I think it'd be very important before >> I'll ask them to do that. And it is important to note that the trees, although they're planted um and they do
have to survive through the winter, uh they will be part of a two-year >> maintenance bond at the completion of the project. So, we'll get through at least two more winters, but protecting them now is certainly a benefit to everyone. >> I I know they have the perimeter fence up, so they probably can't get in, but we know they they're very afraid of deer
can get sneak in somewhere. >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> Sure, Mr. Krauss. Thank you, mayor. Um, for town hall improvements, due to performance issues with the initial mason, a new one has
been brought in to complete the work. It will he anticipates it take will take four to six weeks to order some of the supplies. Um, we did meet with the NGIF representatives and are expecting a
final reimbursement of $58,000. That will be in addition to the almost $40,000 we received a few months ago. Um, regarding organic fertilizer, Green Valley still has not
provided a letter. However, uh the DPW superintendent and I met with one of their representatives last week and was recommended to do an organicbased program with traditional fertilizer for
problem areas. at the community center. The roof replacement is complete and they have moved on to detail work. Um on staffing uh since this was sent
this morning, uh the assistant construction official um scheduled his start date. He will be starting on February 2nd and transitioning or learning from uh outgoing official Tom Jacobson.
On the insurance front, the NIF renewal indicated a premium increase of 5.9%. with uh the Verona community pool. Um, a later in the day update. Uh, family memberships are currently at 128, couple
memberships are at 16, single are at nine, seniors at 57, parent childs at four, and there have been nine caregivers um, membership purchases. Administration and community services
have begun soliciting sponsorships from businesses and uh Chief Polyino will um make a statement later on. Uh he secured a $10,000 donation for the fire and rescue
squad memberships. For public safety, we have some endofear updates from the Verona Fire Department and Rescue Squad. Um, the fire department had six members join as well as eight joined the auxiliary program.
They also responded to 375 calls for service in 2020 and logged over 7,800 hours. The rescue squad welcomed 31 new members and 15 completed a rigorous EMT training course. Uh they also responded
to more than 1500 calls and provided mutual aid at least a hundred times while needing it less than 20 times. And I will uh sorry and the Verona Police Department has started working on an arrive together program. They were
where a social worker will be in the area and will uh be stationed at different departments throughout the West Essex area. and if there is a call for service that they could be of assistance with, they will respond to
that location. Um, the attorney general's office asked Chief Kieran and the Verona Police Department to take the lead on establishing that in this area. And that is where I'll conclude my report.
>> Okay. Any questions for Mr. Krauss? Hearing none, we will thank you gentlemen. We will move on to Ordinance for introduction. Madame clerk, the next item on the agenda is ordinance F1. For introduction, would you please read
the title of this ordinance into the record? >> An ordinance granting renewal of municipal consent to Comcast of New Jersey 2 LLC to construct, connect, operate, and maintain a cable, television, and communication system in
the municipality of Verona, Essex County, New Jersey. >> Thank you, Madam Clerk. Would someone move the ordinance? So moved. >> Motion is made by Councilwoman Holland. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Second. >> Okay. The second is made by several people. I'll do
>> Councilwoman McGrath. Uh any council comments, discussion? >> I have one question on this. Is this the one? >> Deputy Mayor M. >> Thank you. Uh in this it mentions uh appendix A and there's no appendix added
to this. Uh, and I think it's a great uh I saw it in the red line version that we added the board of education to uh it's section 15C and it red line says or its affiliates or subdivisions including verona board
of education uh confirm appendix a locations and type of service just before just so at the final we do have if there's an appendix that should be attached to this just to make sure that I think it's a great idea whoever negotiated the board into this. Great job.
>> I I do I'm sorry. I do have it. It's listing. >> Okay. >> The um >> No, we don't need it now. Just before final >> it as the schools will add it to when it's posted on the website. >> And again, great job by whoever negotiated that. >> I will send that out and post it as
well. >> Okay, >> Madam Clerk, would you call the RO? Oh, sorry, Councilwoman Holland. >> Um, yeah. I just also think it's worthwhile to note this was extensively reviewed by the board of public utilities. Correct. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> It was it was reviewed and they provided
their approval to move forward with this. >> Awesome. Thank you. >> Madam clerk, could you call the role, please? >> Councilwoman Holland, >> yes. Councilwoman McGrath, >> yes. >> Councilman Roman, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Mackoy,
>> yes. >> Mayor Tamuro, >> yes. Mayor F um F1 will be numbered 2026-01. It passes 5 to zero. It will be published according to law and a public hearing will be held on February 9th.
>> Thank you, Madame Clerk. The next item on the agenda is an ordinance for introduction labeled F2. Madame Clerk, could you please read the title of this ordinance into the record? Adopting the redevelopment plan for 320 Bloomfield Avenue and 11 Church Street, lot 704,
lots 18 and 20 redevelopment area. >> Will somebody move the ordinance? >> So moved. >> Motion is made by Councilman Roman. Is there a second? >> I'll second it. >> Second is made by Deputy Mayor Makavoy at this time. Is there any council discussion?
>> Hearing none. Madame Clerk, would you call the role, please? Councilwoman Holland, >> yes. >> Councilwoman McGrath, >> yes. >> Councilman Roman, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Mackoy, >> yes. >> Mayor Tambbor, >> yes. >> Mayor F2 will be numbered 2026-02.
It passes 5 to zero and will be sent to the planning board for consistency. >> At this time, I'm going to open for public comment, but on anything because we normally have a public comment on anything around this time. Uh, but this will also be your only opportunity to
comment on the consent agenda items before we do those. So, anybody has any public comments on the consent agenda or anything at all, uh, please come forward. Madam clerk, would you please read the public participation statements? >> Yes. The notice requirements. I'm sorry,
that's the public meeting back. Anyone from the public wishing to speak on any matter, please raise your hand by raising the hand button on your monitor. If you're dialing in by phone, press star 9. And if you are attending in person, please raise your hand before approaching a lect turn. Once recognized, clearly state only your name
and township of residence for the record. You're not required to provide your your street address. However, if you do, please note that these meetings will be posted on the township's YouTube channel and addresses will not be redacted for any purpose. You'll have four minutes to address the council and there could be no no cross dialogue
during this public portion. After everyone wishing to speak has been heard, the council may address your comments and or questions. Chief Polyino, do you want to >> I just knew he asked uh before. So, >> good evening, Nick Palicino, fire chief.
Uh first off, happy new year to everyone up here. Congratulations to the three council members that were reelected. Um as Mr. Krauss touched on in his report, we did secure a $10,000 donation uh in the name of first responders for the pool memberships. So, um, working with
Miss Northrup, uh, for a press release. Um, we're going to do something small. The company that made the donation wasn't looking for any special recognition, but we do want to use this opportunity in these funds to help spearhead and hopefully initiate other businesses to come forward and make
donations. Um, been working very closely with the administration as well as Mrs. Prrisco to start the year off, right? Um, what better to talk about than the pool when we've had 36 hours of snow come down. So, uh, we just feel like this was a good way to start January off
with, uh, this money coming in and we hopefully can raise some more money and hopefully we'll we'll kickstart that whole initiative for sponsorship and, you know, help the pool in the deficit. >> Thank you, Chief. Thank you, Chief. >> Any public comments, >> Mr. Shore?
>> Good evening, uh, Corey Shore, Verona, New Jersey. Uh congratulations to um three council for um councilwoman and councilman for reelection. Um excited to work with all three of you and the rest of the council uh this particular year.
Um love to hear sponsorship. It's fantastic. It's wonderful. Uh so um that's it's a good start in in the right direction as far as um make sure making sure that the firefighters and rescue squad, but there has to be more than
that. And um there isn't there isn't any kind of data right now about where we are as far as the pool's concerned with the registration like 128 family members. I just want to say we haven't fixed anything. We have to keep pushing. We have to keep trying to figure out
ways. Um there was a note and a recommendation from the rec committee and we had a recorg and I'll get that um I'll get I'll get into that in a second. But it's important to put together another group of marketing team um of
residents that are experts in marketing, social media, so forth and so on. So they continue the push in the areas of increasing our membership. Non-residents when they come on in, making sure that is full. making sure that sponsorship is at the highest
level, events, activities. There needs to be a group of residents outside of the committee that has we have so many great residents in this community want to help out. They're part of the community pool that have these resources and we need to
move on it as quick as possible. We're already behind the we're already behind the eight-ball. So, I encourage the administration working with Pam to get that done as fast as possible. Uh we had a we had a meeting uh reorg meeting um on Tuesday night. Uh we put our subcommittees together for the rec
committee which was absolutely fantastic. Uh we're going to focus mostly in the next couple months on the budget and rec uh and what uh money is going into the WCK department and how to make sure that that those funds are used
correctly or used or are needed for all the programs that are there uh for the pool and uh making sure that all the expenses take our taken into account so that that program revenue along with the program fee that was just increased last
June on a slight and scale. All of that can come together so that this way we have as many or as much resources as possible for the rec department. Um I I would not decrease funding for that department this year. The rec department uh the recreational committee will get into it. The subcommittee will get into
it, but they've been on skeleton staff for a couple years now, so that wouldn't be fair to them. So I just want to congratulate um all the members again. Thank you for your service uh towards uh Verona. It's a tireless uh endless uh
slug that you do and um the community really really appreciates it and thank you very much for your time. >> Thank you, Mr. >> Thank you. >> Seeing no further public comment, close public comment. Uh Mr. Sullivan, I was wondering if you might be able to update on where we are. I know you had
um started working on forming the marketing committee. So, if you could let us know what's going on with that. >> Sure, Mayor. We uh we we did finalize the uh marketing committee policy. Um I will circulate that to the council. Uh
so you have that uh yourselves. But then the for the organization the the formation of the subcommittee we're going to be u advertising within the next uh week uh the call for volunteers to serve on that committee. So, we'll be
organizing that within the next the next several weeks once we give an opportunity for the public to respond. >> Thank you. Um, all right. Second.
Okay. Uh, moving on to the consent agenda this evening. We have we have several items including three sets of minutes and 22 resolutions. uh and uh our towing permits. Does anybody need
anything removed for separate consideration from the consent agenda? >> Well, one was removed already. >> One was removed already. So, it's not >> Yes. I just wanted to confirm that we were Okay. So, that one was >> withdrawn by the manager, so it's no
longer on the consent agenda. >> Okay. All right. Hearing none. Would somebody like to move the consent agenda? >> So moved. >> Motion's made by the deputy mayor. Is there a second? >> Second. >> The second is made by Councilwoman
McGrath. Any council discussion on the consent agenda? >> Oh, we consent to the consent agenda. Madame clerk, would you call the role, please? >> Councilwoman Holland, >> yes. >> Councilwoman McGrath,
>> yes. >> Councilman Roman, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Mackoy, >> yes. Mayor Tambbor. >> Yes. >> Mayor. Um, propos resolutions I 1 through I22 will be numbered 005 through
and including 026. Okay. All right. Moving on to new and unfinished business. We have our council representatives to boards, committees, and commissions. I will put forth a motion for the following. for the environmental commission.
Councilman Roman for the green team. Councilman M Deputy Mayor Mackoy for the Historic Preservation Commission. Mayor Tambborough Joint Flood Advisory Committee. Councilwoman Holland, the Multicultural Inclusion and Accessibility Advisory
Committee. Councilwoman Holland, the Verona Municipal Alliance Committee, Mayor Tamoro, the Neighborhood Traffic and Safety Committee, I'm sorry, Advisory Committee, Councilwoman McGrath, the Open Space Trust Fund Advisory, Councilman Roman and Councilwoman
McGrath, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, Deputy Mayor Makavoy, the Planning Board, Deputy Mayor Makavoy, and the Shay Tree Commission, uh, Councilwoman McGrath. Is there a second on those nominations? >> I'll second those.
>> Second is made by Councilman Roman. Any council discussion? >> Okay. Um, we'll do a roll call vote, Madam Clerk. >> Councilwoman Holland, >> yes. >> Councilwoman McGrath,
>> no. >> Um, Councilman Roman, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Mackoy, >> yes. Mayor Tambbora. >> Yes. >> Uh Mayor, council representatives passes 4 to one. The committee chairs will be identified.
>> Thank you, Madam Clerk. I'd like to uh also make a motion to um appoint Nicole Tolvi to the uh unexpired term for the um recreation commission.
Uh that I think expires 12:31 2026. Is there a second? >> I'll second it. >> Second's made by Deputy Mayor Mackoy. Any council discussion? >> All right. Uh hearing none. Madam clerk, would you call? >> Well, I I have a comment.
>> Sure. >> Um you'll have to appoint a new manager's leas. Okay. >> So that was my only comment. Yeah. >> Okay. Madam Clerk, would you call the role on that one, please? >> Councilwoman Holland, >> yes. >> Councilwoman McGrath, >> yes.
>> Councilman Roman, >> yes. >> Deputy Mayor Mackoy, >> yes. >> Mayor Tambbor, >> yes. >> Mayor, that motion passes 5 to zero. >> I'll notify the chair. I would also like to note for the record, this does not require a vote, but that I will
reappoint Laura Desside to um be the uh mayor's alternate for the library board because there's a new mayoral term. Um and at this point, Mr. O Sullivan, you have a walk-on resolution. >> Yes. Thank you, mayor. There uh is in
front of the council tonight a resolution which authorizes the submission of a treatment works approval application to the NJD for the uh the wastewater treatment facility upgrades project that are currently
under design. Uh the resolution authorizes the submission of the of the permit application. I'd ask the council to consider it this evening. >> Is there a motion? So moved. >> The motion is made by Deputy Mayor Makavoy. Is there a second? >> I'll second it.
>> Second is by Councilman Roman. At this time, we'll open for public comment on this resolution. Seeing no public comment, I will close public comment. Any council discussion? >> Hearing none. Madam Cler, would you call the role, please? >> Councilwoman Holland,
>> yes. >> Councilwoman McGrath, >> yes. >> Councilman Roman, >> yes. Deputy Mayor Mackoy. >> Yes. >> Mayor Tambborough. >> Yes. >> Mayor, this resol will be number 2026-027. >> Thank you, Madam Cler. >> Passes 5.
>> Is there any other new or finished business? Okay. Hearing none, I will open for public comment on any matter anybody wishes to discuss. So any public comment statement hearing none close public comment
and are we going to executive session? >> Yes discussion. >> We have previously made a motion to or pass a resolution to go into executive session at which time the public will be excluded. So we will see you at our next meeting on February 9th.
>> Thank you. Thanks. You too.