I'd like to call this meeting to order at 6:00. This is a regular meeting in the township of Washington in accordance with requirements in New Jersey statutes regarding open public meetings. Notice the meeting was legally advertised in the carrier post in South Jersey Times as well as posted on the bulletin board in the missile building. Fire exits are located through the double doors to your
left and right. Please silence all mobile devices. This meeting is being videotaped. Anyone does not wish to be seen on television may be excused. This will be shown on Channel 9 every week. Sunday at 9:00 p.m., Wednesday at 7 p.m., Friday at 10 p.m., and Saturday at 10 p.m. We'll continue until the next meeting. You can also see us on our live stream on YouTube. Before we start, I
just want to take a moment of silence first. Uh, former Governor Richard Cody passed away on Janu January. So, I just want to recognize him. We can do a moment of silence. He also was the longest legislator in the history of New Jersey. So, we take a moment of silence for him. Thank you so much. Moving on to our
presentations for our watch from honor guard. Five. Four. gallant and the rock glare. The bombs bursting
in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, stay does that star spangled
banner yet way. For the land of the free and the home of the brave
out right shoulder out forward. Wait. >> Council Vice President Brown >> here. Councilman Harris >> here. >> Councilwoman Cascalone >> here.
>> Councilman Urkus >> present. >> Council President Deborello >> here. >> Mayor Delipas >> here. >> Mr. Donahghue >> present. >> Mr. Verso >> here. >> Going to move on our presentations. Chief. >> Good evening Mayor and Council. Tonight,
we are proud to welcome Ridge Schwad up to the Washington Township Police Department as a full-time police officer. Ridge and Rich's family, please come forward. This is an important moment and the beginning of a career root in service, responsibility, and professionalism. On
behalf of the department, I congratulate Ridge and thank his family for their support. We look forward to Rididge's service to our Washington Township community. At this time, Mayor Delipa will administer the oath of office. I swear
>> domly swear or affirmly swear >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States. >> I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. >> That I will bear true faith and allegiance I will bear true >> to the same and to the government
established the in the United States >> in the United States >> and in this state >> under the authority of the people >> under the authority of the people. >> So help me God. >> So help me God. >> I do further solely swear or affirm >> that I will impartially >> I will partially
>> and justly perform >> all the duties of a police officer >> all the police officer >> the Washington Township Police Department >> according to the best of my ability. >> So help me out. >> Congratulations. CONGRATULATIONS.
Thank you. Good evening, mayor, council members, town of administration, family members, and our guest. I want to start by recognizing all the officers nominated for the 2025 Police Officer of the Year award. Officer Tyler
Kelly, Officer Jake Benson, Detective Matt Franchie, Officer Greg Rossy, Officer Mark Wolf, and Officer Justin Inman. Each represents the high standard and professionalism of this department. Tonight, it is my honor to recognize the Washington Township Police Department's
2025 Police Officer of the Year, Justin Inman. Justin, will you please come forward? Can Can Justin's family also all come forward, PLEASE? Officer Inman was nominated by his supervisors of platoon number one. The
nomination letter stated that Inman exemplifies what we expect from a Washington Township police officer. He arrives early for every shift, properly equipped in a neat and professional uniform. He does the little things right and always with positive attitude. I've
never seen the man in a bad mood. He takes pride in his work and sets the tone for those around him, quietly leading by example. In addition to his patrol duties, also serves as a field training officer, a critical leadership role within our department.
He is assigned as officer Schwidop, our newest officer here tonight, as officer Schwid's field training officer. Over the next five months, Officer New will mentor and coach Officer Schwad up while reinforcing our department's work ethic, officer safety,
professionalism, culture, and commitment to community caretaken. Officer's productivity speaks for itself. Over the last year, he handled 1423 calls for service, completed 104 investigation reports, investigated 18 motor vehicle
accidents, conducted 266 motor vehicle stops, and made 18 drunk driving arrests. These numbers reflect a consistent proactive police work and a strong commitment to keeping Washington Township safe. Officer, Officer Nman, on
behalf of the Washington Township Police Department, the mayor and council, and the residents we serve, thank you for your dedication and service. You repres represent the very best of this police department. It is my honor to present Officer Imm as a Washington Township Police Department's 2025 officer of the
year. Congratulations, JUSTIN. Can you hear me? >> Yeah. Sorry, I disconnected. >> Okay. On behalf of Joe Russo, I'll be doing a speech. I just want to thank the town. Washington Township has been a good
department to me. Uh I'm honored to have this award. Thank you guys for everything. Thank you for my family for their support. I couldn't do it without my family and uh I'm just grateful. So, thank you. ALL RIGHT, WE'RE GOING TO TAKE A FIVEM
MINUTE RECESS. Nice proud moment for you, huh? We're moving on with our presentations. Now we're going to move on to we have two Eagle Scouts. >> Would you please come forward with your families? Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. This
first uh proclamation is in recognition of Mark Evangelista. Whereas the mayor and members of township council of Washington Township wish to recognize Mark Evangelista of Boy Scout troop 123 for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
And whereas the vision of the Boy Scouts is to prepare every eligible young youth in America to become responsible participating citizens and leaders who are guided by the scout oath and law. And whereas the rank of Eagle Scout is
considered to be the pinnacle of achievement with the first class of Eagle Scouts recognized in September of 1912. And whereas only about 4% of scouts earn this rank after a lengthy process of being actively involved in troop
leadership, earning merit badges, planning and competing a community service project. And whereas Mark joined the Cub Scouts as a member of Cub Scout Pack 161 in 2013 and then crossed over
into Scout BSA Troop 161 in 2017 and joined Scout BSA Troop 123 in 2023. And whereas Mark completed the program with the Scouting America with Eagle
Scout Award on September 16th, 2025 from Troop 123 in Washington Township. And whereas Mark earned 31 total merit badges including camping, robotics, sailboat sailing, animation,
and citizenship in the world. And whereas for his community service project, Mark chose to build a pergola over the outside deck of the American Legion Post 252. Additionally, he added a portable wheelchair ramp to the deck,
which took over 143 hours to complete. Now therefore, let it be proclaimed by Mayor Anthony Delipia and members of Township Council of Washington Township to hereby recognize Mark Evangelista as a leader within our community and
offer congratulations for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout on this the 21st day of January 2026. We also want to recognize Shiraz Meta for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout as well. Whereas the mayor and members of the township council of the township of
Washington wish to recognize Shiraz Meta of the Boy Scout troop 123 for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. And whereas the vision of the Boy Scouts is to prepare every single eligible youth in America to become responsible participating citizens and leaders who are guided by
the SC scout oath and law. And whereas the rank of Eagle Scouts considered to be the pinnacle of achievement with the first class of Eagles being recognized in September 1912. And whereas only about 4% of all scouts earned this rank after a lengthy process
of being actively involved in troop leadership, earning merit badges, planning and completing a community service project. And whereas Shiraz joined the Cub Scouts as a member of a Cub Scout pack 220 in 2016 and then crossed over into the Scout BSA Troop
123 in 2021. And whereas Shiraz completed the program with the Scouting America with Eagle Scout Award on September 16th, 2025 from Troop 123 in Washington Township. Whereas Shiraz has earned 53 merit badges, including wilderness survival, space exploration,
chess, chess search and rescue, and kayaking. He has also joined the Order of the Arrow and earned brotherlyhood on Sunday, April 14th, 2024. Whereas for his community service project, Siraz chose to paint a United States map on the playground area and
create an outdoor classroom in the courtyard at Whitman Elementary School, which took him 222 hours. Now therefore, be it be by be it be let's try it again. Now therefore be it proclaimed by me, Mayor Anthony Delpia, and members of the council of Washington Township do hereby
recognize Shiraz Meta as a leader within our community and offer congratulations for achieving this rank of Eagle Scout on this day, 21st day of January. Congratulations, SHIRAZ. CONGRATULATIONS. Congratulations one.
Awesome. Congratulations. We're just going to take another five minute break. Let everybody kind of wants to head out, head out. How you doing? Good. Continue. There it is.
Well, good evening. Tonight we have a special honor and privilege of greatness amongst us. We have a Washington Township resident who has excelled in his field and it's not often a community
gets to recognize that person. So before I bring that person up, I would like to bring up my good friend, Mr. Dan Baker. You may not recognize him, but you'll recognize his voice. Dan,
I want to thank Dan for taking out uh the time to come here uh to help his friend and uh do us the honors. Dan, good to see you. Thank you. It's all yours. >> Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
>> The Phillies welcome you to Citizens Bank Park. >> Tonight, the Phillies host the St. Louis Cardinals. just to connect a lot of times see somebody thinks I'm on TV or radio which
I am occasionally like in the background but uh I'm the voice you hear at Citizens Bank Park and for 32 years at Veteran Stadium just across the street. I love the Phillies. I've always loved
the Phillies and anybody who loves the Phillies is going to love the man that we're going to recognize tonight. Because tonight, Washington Township
is honoring one of its most well-known citizens, Ed Wade. And tonight, Ed is proudly and lovingly
accompanied by his wife, Roxanne. Ed and Roxanne met at the vet in 1977. Roxan, I don't I don't know how many people were in our
age group and who would remember, but we had the most attractive usherettes in baseball in sports. It was called the hot pants patrol. >> We had two hot dancers.
>> Oh my gosh. WE JUST so anyway it you know it's a it's a great story but um Ed and Roxanne have three children
Ryan Erin who's here tonight and Moren and they also have four grandchildren uh three of them are Eron and Jose's I believe Jose and their
oldest son Lorenzo are at a basketball game tonight which is why they couldn't be here. Uh however Rammon and Raina are here. Would you two
good-looking children please stand? And thank you kids. And you know, it's so um sometimes uh at at Philly's games, my wife and children have sat next to Ed and his grandchildren,
and he's so loving as a father and a grandfather and a husband. And um as a matter of fact, um Ed, was it Erin who received a part of your fibula?
Meen, their youngest daughter. I apologize for that mistake. Um, had a disease of her lower bone in her leg and it required
uh a transplant from a person with a healthy uh bone uh to help her. Ed donated his fibula. So they removed one of the bones in his
lower leg and they cut it up and and pieced it together with uh their daughter Marine's leg. And we have a happy uh end of that story, don't we? And Roxan and Well, anyway, you can see
what a wonderful family they have. And now I'm going to tell you a little bit about uh Ed's career. Some of you probably are familiar with it because Ed Wade
is one of the finest sports executives that Philadelphia ever had. In just a moment, I'm going to tell you some of the things that he did. You probably already know some of them if you're a died in the Wool Phillies fan.
If you're four for four, like uh you can see Ramon, he's got the Flyers jersey on tonight. And uh you know, I think we all cheer for the Phillies, the Eagles, the Sixers, the Flyers.
Well, I don't know how many of you would know this, but uh the Phillies organization is 142 years old. We started in 1883. In all of those
142 year, you know, the the biggest prize in baseball is to win the World Series. It doesn't happen often. The Yankees have won the most. They won something like 26 or 27
World Championships. Some franchises have no World Series wins. We have two in all of those years. And Ed, I want to thank you for helping put this one ring on my finger for 2008.
uh and as he did for the entire organization. Um so the Phillies won the World Series in 1980. Remember Tub McGraw at the end and Mike Schmidt was the MVP and um 1980
and 2008 are our two World Series. But as you can see, it doesn't happen that often. And without Ed Wade, we might only have one.
I mean, I I don't think a lot of people um understand the enormity of what he did us and we being such great sports fans. Um, last August,
Ed Wade was inducted into August the 1st to be exact, along with Jimmy Rollins. He was inducted into the Phillies Wall of Fame. Now, there aren't many executive. We've had a
lot of top flight executives. Very few have been honored by being enshrined in the Phillies Hall of Fame. Of course, we have players, manager,
uh executives, and these are uh the other executives uh who are in the wall of fame. Paul Owens, another resident here,
two World Series, two SU Washington Township guys helping to to put us there. Um, but Paul Owens, Pat Gillik, Ry Carpenter, former owner, John Quinn,
general manager, uh, in the late 50s and 60s, uh, matter of fact, right through to about 1972. uh and Dave Montgomery
uh a wonderful wonderful president and owner. Ed is originally from Carbondale, Pennsylvania. Carbondale and um he went to Temple University
and he played baseball there under legendary baseball coach Skip Wilson. Skip coached at Temple for 45 years and he took a couple of Temple teams to the College
World Series and you know Temple's not known There's hardly any schools in the northeast that are known as a baseball powerhouse. Most of the baseball powerhouses are in the south and the west where they have good weather and
you know are able to practice outside more and uh but you know that's that's a pretty select group. Think of again 142 years. Think
of all the executives, all the players and some, you know, a lot of great ones. We have a a proud and rich history. And part of the reason that we have such pride in our organization is because of
people like Ed Wade. It started as a PR intern with the Phillies in 1976 and then he was Philly's PR assistant
for a little while before being hired by the Houston Astros in the same capacity. And while in Houston, Ed was promoted to their public relations director. And he was excellent at that. And he
learned uh the craft well under the great Larry Shank and Chris Wheeler here. Later, the Pittsburgh Pirates hired him as their PR director.
Ed returned to the Phillies as a assistant general manager. He developed such a nice reputation along the way. He knew baseball. He knew how to promote baseball. He knew how to market baseball.
And he loved this organization. Um, as an assistant to former general manager Lee Thomas, Ed's brilliance was shining through. It was Ed Wade
who prevailed upon Lee Thomas to trade for Bobby Abrau. You might have seen last night uh I believe Bobby got 30% of the vote for uh uh this year's
Hall of Fame. So, he's not quite there yet. Uh but he's got a chance. He was a great player with wonderful skills and and a great great Philly. And it was Ed Wade
who was able to convince Lee Thomas to trade uh the Philly shortstop from the 1993 National League champions Kevin Stalker for Bobby Abrau. Ed was named uh interim Philly's general
manager in 1997 and then in 1998 he was named vice president and general manager and he served in that capacity for seven
years. Later, Ed was also the general manager for the Houston Astros from 2007 to 2011. And he closed out his brilliant career
when he returned to the Phillies as a consultant from 2011 to 2018. Ed in his capacity as general manager hired two of the greatest managers in Philly's
history, Larry Boa and Charlie Emanuel. He hired Larry Boa in the year 2000. He hired Charlie Manuel in 2004. And Charlie Emanuel is the winningest
manager in Philly's history. and he was the manager of the 2008 World Champions. Larry Boa also did an excellent job. Um, but you know,
never quite got to the promised land, but he Larry is a special consultant uh to uh the general manager even now. And um Ed, if I'm not misquing you, I believe
you told me in the past that Larry Boa was was about as smart of baseball man as you ever met. Now listen to this these accomplishments. Ed Wade signed future Hall of Famer Jim Tony. Now, this was at
a time, you know, this was, you know, the the Phillies last year was a veteran stadium and the stadium uh was not the architecture, the beautiful architecture that it was when it first opened in
1971. Uh it was in need of repair. Um and and so is the team. After that 1993 National League Championship, uh
we had some uh long years. It required someone who really knew baseball, a a bright executive to help lift this out of the doss at that at that time.
Now, one of the ways that Ed Wade accomplished that was by signing great players like future Hall of Famer Jim Tomy, future Hall of Famer Billy Wagner,
that hardthrowing left-handed relief pitcher 100 miles an hour. Kevin Milwood, who pitched the no hitter for the Phillies. David Bell who came from a great baseball family,
John Leieber and Kenny Loftton. Now, this was on the way. Now, now the Phillies are starting to turn the corner under his leadership. And he didn't stop there. He drafted and signed
Brett Meyers, who was both a starter and a reliever. Pat Burl out of the University of Miami, the top college player in the NCAA.
Chase Utley, who had the third highest number of votes in the Hall of Fame voting yesterday, 59%. You need 75. Of course, Carlos Beltron and Andrew Jones uh got enough votes uh to be
enshrined. and congratulations to them. And it might be that by this time next year when they announce the 2027 class, another player drafted,
signed, developed by Ed Wade will be going to the Hall of Fame representing the Phillies. And that's Ed didn't stop there. Ryan Howard, Cole Hamills, Cole Hamills first year on
the ballot and he got like 23% of the vote. So he'll return to the ballot next year. No other firstear player got more than 5% to stay on the ballot
for next year. Only Cole Hammonds. another Ed Wade sneige. Now, although I don't believe it was Ed and and his great assistants like Mike Arbuckle and Ruben Amaro,
uh who signed Jimmy Rollins, but they developed Jimmy Rollins. Here's another guy that may be going to the Hall of Fame. Uh he was an MVP as Ryan Howard was an MVP
and um anyway this gentleman who brought these great players to the Phillies and for those of us who who grew up praying that the Phillies would get to a World Series and win it. Of
course we did win it in 1980. Uh this was the answer. He was the answer to our prayers. So, as Washington Township
honors one of its most well-known citizens, I'd ask you, are you going to read a proclamation, Jack? Okay. Um, but how about a standing ovation for Ed Wade and
his family? Thank you, Dan. Dan, do you want to come back up? And Ed, would you and your family come up and join our mayor and my fellow council members and administration in this great honor? You know, baseball is America's
pastime. Still is. I can't wait to hear them say, "Pitchers and catchers report to spring training." Every year gets me excited. I was at that 1980 World Series when Pete Rose caught the ball when it popped out of Bob Boon's glove to win that World Series. Unfortunately, I was
there in 83 when we lost to Baltimore. And uh it's been exciting and I want to thank so much Dan giving up his time to come out and I'd like Ed and Dan hold up those World Series rings, please. >> Mine's actually the wall of fame.
>> Wall of fame. There you go. >> World Series ring. >> No. Okay. Um, well, at this time, please stay here. Uh, I'd like to thank you for coming with you and your family. Uh, I don't know how many communities have had
this honor and privilege to congratulate a person who brought a World Series or a Super Bowl championship to their town. Um, but I got this idea last year when I was talking to Dan and he mentioned that Ed was being induct inducted into the
South Jersey Hall of Fame. I couldn't make that induction. But then I was at Citizens Bank Park August 1st when you were inducted into the Phillies Hall of Fame along with the great shortstop of Jimmy Rollins who you signed. So on
behalf of the mayor, my fellow council members, our administrator, the lady here from our school representative and the residents of Washington Township. It gives me great honor and privilege to read this proclamation to you and your
family. In recognition of Ed Wade, whereas Ed Wade has served the Phillies for parts of 24 years and whereas as general manager, Ed drafted, signed or developed the nucleus of the team that won five consecutive division titles
2007 through 2011, two National League pennants 2008 and 2009, and a World Series title 2008. And whereas Ed signed the following 17
players who were part of the 2008 World Series Championship. Clay Condre, Adam Eaton, Cole Hamills. Sorry if I don't sound like Dan Baker as exciting and great as his voice, but you take what you get. J. A. Hap, Kyle
Kendrick, Ryan Madson, Brett Meyers, Lou Marsen, Carlos Ruiz, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, Pat Barl, Greg Coulson, Shane Victorino,
guy from Hawaii, and Andy Tracy, whereas Ed hired Charlie Emanuel, the winningest manager in Philly's history, and also acquired Hall of Famers Jim Tomy and Billy Wagner. I don't if you ever saw Jimmy Billy Wagner pitch boy that ball left that finger and hands
and got in the catcher m awful quick. Whereas Ed helped oversee the franchise's move to Citizens Bank Park, setting the stage for five straight National League East titles and the 2008 World Series championship. And whereas Ed was inducted into the
South Jersey Hall of Fame in 2025. And whereas Ed during his tenure as GM, general manager, he drafted, signed, or acquired the core players who became the foundation of the Philly success in the late 2000s and early 2010s, including
Pep Barl, Ryan Matson, Carlos Ree, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Cole Haml, and Shane Victor, and promoted Jimmy Rollins to the major leagues. And whereas Ed was inducted into the wall of fame on August 1st, 2025 at Citizens Bank Park. Whereas
Ed along with his wife Roxanne, a former member of the Hot Pants Brigade. Okay. Well, those were good times. And have been residents of Washington Township for over 30 years. Over 30 years. Now therefore, be it proclaimed
by the mayor Anthony Delipia and my fellow members of Township Council of Washington Township to hereby recognize Ed Wade as a monumental influence in the baseball world and recognize your accomplishments on this 21st day of
January 2026 and has been signed by the mayor, all council members. And we'd like to give this to you, your wife and family. And now, Ed, if you would, I know you're a man of few words, but I'm going to ask you to come up and
grace us all with your >> Thank you very much. Uh, good evening. Uh, first of all, I want to express my appreciation to Dan Baker for being taking time out of his schedule to be here tonight. Uh on opening day of this coming season, Dan will be serving in
his 54th season as the Philly's public address announcer. Combined with that work, uh then also what he's done with the Eagles, several Army Navy game, football games, college sports, and radio broadcasters, it's easy for us to say that Dan has been the voice of
Philadelphia sports. on behalf of all of us. Thank you Dan for your contribution and personality and your p u and your per p per p per p per p per p per p per p per p per p per p per p person personal friendship. Thank you very much. I next want to thank Jackus and the members of the city council for this
wonderful honor. All the accolades I've recently received uh have been completely unexpected and I know they wouldn't have come my way had it not been for the great support that I received from my friends and colleagues with the Phillies. They truly are the reasons why uh we
were able to fulfill our fulfill our promise that we made to our fans as we were moving from Veteran Stadium to Citizens Bank Park. That promise being that we were going to quote unquote get good and stay good. The defining moment for that promise being 2008 World Series
championship. My receiving tonight's honor is only occurring because of the work that we did as a team. My primary team is my family. My wife Roxanne grew up in Glboro. She and I met in 1977, as you've heard, on the at the fourth floor
elevator at Veteran Stadium when I was interning in the Philly's public relations department, and she was working a summer job as a Philly's usherette. Her full-time job at that time was an elementary school special education teacher in Lindenwald. On January 10th of this year, Roxanne and I
celebrated our 45th wedding anniversary. And for the last 30 plus years, Roxanne has been serving as a special ed teacher in Washington Township, most mostly nearby at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School. It was on May 5th, 1989 when I
returned to the Phillies and we made our home here in Washington Township. Even during my years away while serving as the general manager of the Houston Astros, we kept our home here and Roxanne continued her teaching career in the township. Our three children, Ryan, Aaron, and Moren, are all products of
the township's elementary and middle schools. And three of our grandchildren currently participate in several sports and other activities here. Our son-in-law, Jose, uh also serves as a volunteer firefighter here in Washington Township. I believe in teamwork. I also
believe in sharing credit. But there is another part of that belief and that statement that those in authority must embrace with the entire saying being share credit and assume all blame. Whether you're putting together a major league baseball team or running a
township, you have to understand that the sacrifices and tough decisions that you make and the burdens that you have to overcome are the prices of being willing to do your best for the greater good of all. Thank you to the members of the city council and the mayor for your willingness to serve for the greater
good. Again, thank you to everyone responsible for the tonight's honor and thank you to everyone for coming tonight. And let's go Phillies. Now, we're going to ask you to all of you step up for pictures and autographs. And before you go, gentlemen, please
come forward. And I'd like to hear both of you at the same time same time say play ball. >> He's going to drown me out. >> Three. >> One, two, three. Play ball. >> The mayor has a special request. Mayor,
>> so I've been going to games since I was a kid and I talked about tonight. I said Dan Baker's coming like Dan Baker. the guy says now batting for the Phillies and then whoever you can make an announcement of whoever your favorite name was whether it be Mendini or somebody rolled off to tell him about
you saying you know batting for >> now batting for the Phillies number 12 second baseman Mickey MORENI and how about
how about the guy we just resigned number 10 toucher here. J T REAL MUTO, would you do my favorite, which was Mike Schmidt.
>> Now batting for the Phillies, number 20, THIRD BASEMAN MIKE SCHMIDT. Thank you. And now we'll get pictures over here. And what's going to happen? I've asked uh Ed and Dan to autograph the proclamation. We're going to have
one in the mayor's office uh sealed so everyone can see it when they come in and the picture from August 1st. Uh so if you would let's go over get that done, get photos and then we'll let you go ahead. Just the mayor asked me earlier if he
could try out. So does anybody have a glove and a ball little fungal bow? We can hit some ground balls to them. No. Maybe next time. I'm just glad Jack didn't wear the hot pants tonight like he wanted to. >> Remember those days very well. But thank you, gentlemen. Everyone, thank you.
Let's give another round of applause. He's a great school. I was first knees hurting seats. Nice. >> Did you go there? I did. It was text.
Hopefully next year. Okay. This is I just sent her a picture. I said Charles pictures. center. Thank you. >> Be safe. Good job.
That was perfect. They weren't supposed You know what's funny? No matter how late I come in, I >> I'm looking at the I put in the same amount of hours
whether I come in earlier or later. The funniest thing I don't think it's me. >> I don't have much to say. Dan and I are going to the annual sportsman's banquet. Sherry Hill. >> Oh, I give the shark.
>> I promised him I would take him. Nice to meet you. >> Yeah, sort of my Donna here. Nice to meet you. >> Thank you. >> He did a great job. Thank you. >> Phenomenal. Really, really nicely done. >> Yeah. So, we'll get him um we'll get him on the podcast.
>> Yeah, that'd be fantastic. >> Oh, I think it'd be awesome. >> I won't sit in cuz I know nothing about sports, but I can >> I can ask you. >> Yeah. I mean, you know, I shook my head the whole time. He's like, "Remember 19?" I'm like, "Oh, yeah." Yeah. >> I was born in 82, but I remember that.
>> Yeah, it was. >> My two favorite was Jina. Remember Louis G? >> Oh, yeah. I remember that. >> Cousin or something. >> Very nice to have you here tonight. >> Thank you. Thank you for your time.
Appreciate you. Thank you very much. >> Drive careful. >> You're welcome. >> A LOT OF BLOOD AND SWEAT AND TEARS in that. Did you hear? >> Oh my. We got it done. >> We did. It's all that matters. It's all that matters.
>> You still there? >> One second. I'm just let >> Is there a lot of people there? No, it's the crowd. >> What's that? >> Fill me in. >> Moving on. Can I get a motion to approve the bill as for January 21st, 2026?
>> Motion. >> Second. Roll call, please. >> Councilman Harris, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Pascalone, >> yes. >> Council Vice President Brown, >> yes. Council President Deborrella. >> Yes.
>> Can I get a motion to approve the reorganization minutes for January 2nd, 2026? >> Motion. >> Roll call, please. >> Second. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Councilman Harris, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Pascalone, >> yes.
>> Council Vice President Brown, >> yes. >> Council President Deborah, >> yes. Moving on resolutions. The following resolution are a consent agenda only and require vote for all listed. Each one must be read by title. If any member of the council wish to have one removed and heard separately, they need to indicate prior to the reading of the titles. Anyone need
anything removed or heard separately? Seeing that none, madam clerk, please read the resolutions. Resolution 41, 2026, resolution authorizing an agreement for geese clearing services at Washington Lake Park for a term of one year. Resolution 42. Resolution
accepting inspection escrow from VSV Pet Hotel aka K9 Resorts 5851 Route 42 Turnersville, New Jersey. 43. Resolution accepting landscaper perimeter buffer safety and
stabilization bond and inspection escrow from Route 42 Sitco LLC 5321 Route 42 Turnersville. 44. Resolution authorizing a transfer of budget appro appropriations.
45. Resolution cancelling taxes for Jeremy Sisiano, a totally disabled veteran at block 8410, lot 36, effective October 15, 2025. 46. Resolution cancelling taxes for
Raymond Mason, a totally disabled veteran at block 51.01, 01 lot 116 effective November 6, 2025. 47. Resolution cancelling taxes for Omar
Garcia, a totally disabled veteran located at block 54.12, lot 15 effective August 11, 2025. 48. Resolution cancelling taxes for John T. Bomb, a totally disabled veteran at
block 85.15 lot 12-c15004 effective October 14th, 2025. 49. Resolution cancelling taxes for Edward J. Sweeney Jr., a totally disabled veteran at block 116.06,
lot 8, effective November 24th, 2025. Resolution 50. Resolution cancelling taxes for Edward L. Park, a totally disabled veteran, located at block 82.41, effective December 2nd, 2025.
Resolution 51, resolution cancelling taxes for James J. Walker, a totally disabled veteran located at block 116.28, lot 7, effective December 3rd, 2025. 52. Resolution cancelling taxes for
Anthony J. Diamo, a totally disabled veteran located at block 194.32, lot 21, effective December 16th, 2025. 53. Resolution cancelling taxes for Lewis Balisto, a totally disabled
veteran located at block 82.88, lot 33, effective December 10th, 2025. Resolution 54, resolution authorizing refund of tax over overpayments. >> Thank you, Madam Cler. Can I get a motion to approve resolutions R041-2026
20 to R054-2026? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Councilman Harris, >> yes. >> Councilwoman Pascalone, >> yes. >> Council Vice President Brown, >> yes. >> Council President Deborello,
>> yes. Moving to all business, new business and reports. Let's start with Councilman Joe Harris down there. Councilman Harris. >> Yes. Thank you, Council President. Um, exciting night here tonight. Yeah, we had a lot lot going on. Um, I'd like to congratulate once again our 2025 uh,
police officer of the year, uh, Justin Enman, who was here earlier uh, this evening. Um, also want to send congratulations out to Ridgewide Up. Um he's he's an impressive guy and uh I'm sure he's going to make an incredible addition to our police force here in Washington Township. And I also want to
uh congratulate our Eagle Scouts who were here in the building uh earlier this evening as well. And um just want to uh ask everyone to be careful this weekend. We're not quite sure when the snow is coming. I think I think we're going to get a lot of lot of snow coming on Sunday. And um I know our public works are uh are preparing for this. Uh
Frank and Brian are are getting ready for uh for a lot of snow. So, just want to remind everyone to uh please, you know, be careful uh over the next several days. That's all I have. >> Thank you so much. Counciloman Pascalone, you have anything? >> Um, just everybody, I second everything
that Joe said and uh the environmental commission is working on ideas for Earth month. So, if anybody has any good ideas, feel free to email me. And that's all I have. >> Thank you so much. Student represent GA, anything? >> Yes.
Good evening. I am happy to inform you that the high school has had some pretty exciting couple of weeks and more amazing things coming up. The senior directed cabaret took place on January 8th and January 9th in the 1112 Playhouse. Directors Sophia Raana and Autumn Gavagan chose different Saturday
Night Live skits and they held auditions in October. They chose choreographers, lead directors, and the SDC cast. They hosted the show and were in charge of rehearsals, putting together all of the costumes, coordinating props, and many more. The whole show supported Project
Graduation. Project Graduation is a program we have at the high school that raises money in order for students to have a safe event after graduation to celebrate one last time as a class with their classmates and friends. It is a 30 plus year tradition that we want to keep going for
our students when they graduate. The National Honors Society had its induction ceremony on Thursday, January 15th. Students who demonstrate strong character, academic success, leadership, and determination were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments.
Seniors had the special opportunity to choose someone in their lives who has made an impact on them. And as they walked across the stage, they were met by that special person where they received a National Honor Society blue stole for graduation. On Saturday, January 17th, and Sunday,
January 18th, the Washington Township High School hosted the New Jersey Thespian Festival. The students had the opportunity to participate in numerous workshops in different theatrical areas, compete in individual and group events, audition for scholarships from colleges and universities, and visitformational
booths and vendors. Students could also view mainstage performances, and participate in community service efforts. There were over 1,700 students from 65 schools across the state of New Jersey and Delaware. On Friday, January 30th at 700 p.m., the
middle school Idol will be held in the 11:12 auditorium at the Washington Township High School. Middle school students will show off their talent and compete to perform their winning piece at the high school township choir's Philly Pops concert on Thursday, February 12th in the
Republic Bank Performing Arts Center. All the donations will go toward Noah Khan's charity, The Bushy Head Project. It will be a night full of pop music and familiar tunes such as Pink, Alanis Morsette, Panic at the Disco, Sabrina Carpenter, Miley Cyrus, and many more.
Tickets are $10 on booktick.com, and $15 at the door. Come out and support the talented choir and this amazing cause. Our sports teams remain very successful. Our senior football quarterback, Colino, will be recognized on February 1st by the Maxwell Club of Philadelphia as a
New Jersey Miniax award winner. The Township girls bowling is currently undefeated and ranked number 18 in the state. The Minutemen wrestling team currently holds a record of 8-1. They are ranked fifth in South Jersey. At Bunker Hill Middle School on Friday,
January 16th at 3 p.m. the Paul Shop took place. It was a ribbon cutting ceremony and is a testament to the immense hard work, heart, and collaborative efforts of so many members of the school community. The Paul Shop will be run by students from Bunker Hills MD and ASD programs along with
their team up buddies. Washington Township High School Project graduation has announced its annual big game pregame fundraisers scheduled for Friday, February 6th. This night out for parents will be held at the forum on the Blackhorse Pike in Blackwood from 6:00
to 10:00 p.m. The event is specifically designed for parents, couples, friends, and colleagues to enjoy to enjoy a night out while supporting our community. There will be a live DJ and a buffet dinner along with opportunities to win designer bags and a 50/50 raffle fundraising different activities. For
more information, please contact wtspgmail.com. Thank you. >> Awesome. All right. Anything on your part? >> Russo, mayor. >> Thank you, Council President. Um, I want
to reiterate what Councilman Harris said. Congratulation to officer Inman for being recognized as officer of the year. I want to congratulate U. Officer Schwid to joining the police department. We look forward to him serving our town for many years to come. Congratulations
to the two Eagle Scouts. It's a great honor. and um they're our future. So, we're very proud to recognize them. Want to thank Jack Ericas for uh putting together Dan Baker and Ed Wade coming tonight. Uh it was really nice to have them here being a big sports fan. I was
there many of those years as a season ticket holder and I was at that World Series in '08 both halves of that game. So, uh it was actually really cool to have him here. So, thanks Jack for putting that on. Uh our podcast released its fourth episode over the past week. So, look for it on our website or or
social media. Um, we'll continue to film. Ed Wayade said he will join and he might bring Mil Thompson. >> Oh, that's awesome. >> So, um, that's awesome. >> So, look for that episode coming in the future. And, uh, we're open for any questions or ideas that the residents have to add to the podcast. Uh, I want
to recognize Donna Mechanical. So, I don't if anybody saw on social media, there was a resident who was kind of down on his luck. Young kid, I believe his mama passed away a few years ago. His heater wasn't working. He had no heat whatsoever and he had no funds to fix it. um a bunch of people jumped in to try to
help out and Donnu Mechanical came in, gave the kid a new heater at no cost and had them up and running within a day or so. So, I just want to recognize uh Donnu Mechanical and say that's what our community is about is jumping in when somebody needs help and you know putting all hands on deck and I've seen it many
many many times since I've been involved and it's great to see and I just wanted to kind of give him a shout out for doing a great job. And lastly, I want to mention about the potential of a storm. Uh, Councilman Harris said, you know, be careful, but be patient. Also, um, we're a very big town. We don't know what to
expect. We're kind of reacting, right? And you can only prepare so much. So, just be patient. We're going to be out there at some for, you know, at some point with full force and whatever we have to deal with. Um, and if you have any questions or if there's any concerns, just reach out and we'll make
sure that, um, they're addressed. But be careful and be patient. That's all I have. Thank Thank you, mayor. Council vice president. >> Yes. To piggyback off what the mayor said, this is good time to remind everybody that we do have a community notification system called Everbridge.
If you haven't taken the time to sign up for the notification system, uh there is a uh QR code on the desk up front, uh you can reach out to me. I can assist you in getting set up. If we have any major announcements, uh coordinate with the mayor of the BA and we'll get
something out to the public uh to notify of any important events or uh closures or uh places to avoid after the storm. Um the library uh they have several events coming up in uh January. Please
take note of their website and look for their uh uh newsletter that they sent out, Hagen happenings. You can uh go to their website and look at the happenings where you can actually sign up and get an email as they put out uh new events.
One event particular comes to mind. January 27th at 7 p.m. uh there will be a um Holocaust survivor's granddaughter going over um things that happened uh during her mother's uh time in one of
the camps. Uh it's very very moving, very very enlightening. Uh I attended it along with several council members last year and uh it was a very moving experience. So, uh, go on their website. It is posted there. And, uh, if you can
make it, it's a good night to attend. Um, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day was January 9th. Uh, we extend all of our appreciation to our township police officers, our chief, and the command staff, uh, for all they do for Washington Township. Uh, be safe,
come home safe, and keep doing what you're doing. We appreciate everything that you do. Uh, that's it. >> All right. Well, thank you so much. Well, again, I I want to kind of go back what everybody said. Congratulations to our officer of the year. Congratulations, our new officer. Want to thank Jack because councilman Jükus
really worked really hard on that. So, that really turned out well. He did a great job. What a what a great evening. It's nice to have both of them here. Like you said, podcast episode four and five will be out next week and we're having a lot of fun with it. So, please tune in, watch it. We actually have a lot of fun with it. I you could say if we we laugh, we have a good time. We're
looking for some good ideas. Uh this month also Sandy Fitz Fitzpatrick was on the cover of the Washington Township Neighbors magazine. I know not everybody gets that magazine, but great story about her. She was a teacher from Gluster County of the Year. Great article about her and her family. Just phenomenal people. Also, we got together
with Gran View. Gran View gave away a free roof. They gave away the roof. They gave away all the materials to a family on Selena Road. Phenomenal family. Thank you so much to them. Thank you to Norris Nick that was also there helped put that together was promoting that. Thank you to the chief. Uh both chiefs were were
had uh representation from the police, the fire EMTs were there, mayor was there, we had uh Commissioner Chris Conwell was there, we had two assembly members were there. So that was awesome. Little cold out, but it it was cold, but uh really great. It was so so uh to see
them and and her face. She had no idea. She had no idea we we were coming. It was like the publishers clearing house about the closest we'll get to that. Like we felt like that when they knocked on the door, right? And and she came outside. You got that same excitement. So it it really was an honor to to be there for that. Also, the mayor and I read at Beacon Academy.
>> So again, even at schools, other places here, doesn't have to be our wash down from schools. If you haven't if you have something here, you have you want us to come and read. We had a great time with that. We met a lot of great kids. About 135 kids we read to. >> Yeah. >> And I do the voices. >> I think the best part was one of the kids told uh the parent that two young
guys >> young guys who was there. That was the best comment ever. Really? Yeah. I'm like, "Oh yeah, awesome." So, we had a lot of fun with that. So, invite us. We really do enjoy that and I think they had a good time as well. So, we we do a couple other things. Cameron Kennedy was the Eagle Scout. He finished
up his Eagle project as well. You can see that in front of McInness. He did a prayer garden. So, please go over and stop and take a look at that. He did a great job. He did a video. He had people from town that stepped up to to help with that. And Janet, that was awesome. That was the best uh uh update for the schools that that I think we've ever had. So, really good information there.
So, moving on now to our public participation. Please follow the public the quorum posted which has been attached to the public agenda and limit your comments to five minutes. Once you've completed your comments or questions, I'll ask if anyone or the member body designate wishes to address your comments.
Now open to the public Hello everyone. Mike Dillio, resident of Washington Township, director at Washington Township Public Schools. Uh thank you so much for giving me this opportunity. I have two things to share. Uh one was about the most recent weather. We had um on a positive note, I
my I have a friend, his name is Jeff Walter. He runs um the uh grounds along with Jerry Finkele. They run grounds at um Washington Township and uh he works his tail off. There's nobody that works harder than both of them. But uh I
talked to him about how great of a job he did and without taking credit for himself, I wanted um town council to know and Mr. Alan Demiro to know that uh he made a specific shout out to Brian McAffrey of public works um and just um
the care he takes to make sure that you know we also have what we need as well. So, um I just thank you all for that partnership and on behalf of Jeff and Jerry, um thank you for all you do for us. It's much appreciated. Um I'm here
in my annual uh promotion of the Hogi sale just last year and I was very proud of it. Uh we raised $35,000 for uh families who have medical setbacks or suffering from medical setbacks, whether
it's them themselves as adults or their children um in town. Uh $35,000, it was a it was a uh you know, it was an Eagle Super Bowl year, so a lot of people came out. But this year on February 8th, we're having uh on Super Bowl Sunday,
we're having students and staff volunteers once again convene at Washington Township High School in the cafeteria. We're going to build hogies. We have a lot of donations from Libman Farms, from Lissios, um and just all over the community. And it's a it's a
labor of love and it's something, you know, just to echo what everybody said around here about how in times of adversity, we all come together and do what's right. And this is definitely what's right. I left a few flyers up here that you guys can keep all the way through the month and um I I will email
mayor and council president a digital copy of it so you can spread the word as you feel. Um but on this document here uh it's read um and it is uh it's a QR code um to place your order and then
another QR code a Zeffy link to order. Hogies are $10. We have trays that encompass um about seven hogies in total and those are $60. And on the Hogy trays, we are um in getting turkey hogies this year. So, a couple people in
the community um wanted some turkey hogies, so we're going to put them in the hogi trays. So, um I I hope to see as many of you as possible there. It's a fantastic event. It's very moving and uh it's just something that makes us very proud here. So, thank you for the time. Appreciate it. >> Thank you, Mike. appreciate all hard
work and everything you do. >> Council President >> Mike, how do we sign up to volunteer? I know I know the last couple years we've all come and help. Can we just show up or do we need to sign up to show up that day? >> Yeah, if I could just get a headcount, that would be great. I appreciate it. You can email me um and a couple of my
colleagues, Miss Finn and Miss Sullivan, um will be able to help, too. But I could be your primary contact for that. Um and then I maybe there's a challenge to see who can get there before me in the morning. That would be kind of cool. But >> so I I've drugged my kids there the last couple years at like 6 a.m.ish and they
love it though. My my kids love it. So >> I' already taken my afternoon nap by the >> Anyway, so but no, it's I appreciate any anything you guys can do. Awesome. Thank you. >> Thanks, Mike. Thanks, Mike. Appreciate all your hard work. >> Thank you. >> All right, we'll be going to an executive session regarding
>> Oh, okay. I'm closing the uh public portion. Anyone else? Seeing none, get a motion to close. >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> now we go into executive session regarding litigation rising sub recovery LLC versus Washington Township of Zoning
Board of Adjustments. This last approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Action may or may not be taken. Can I get a motion to approve resolution R55-2026? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Councilman Harris. >> Yes.
>> Councilwoman Pascalone. Council Vice President Brown. >> Yes. >> Council President Deella. >> Yes. >> You still there? Okay.