Good evening, West Orange. This is your Zoom moderator, Joe Fagan, and welcome to the council meeting for June 24th, 2025. Uh there is no public comment on Zoom, but if you want to join us here in council chambers, 66 Main Street. You
will be permitted public comment. At this time, I would like to turn the meeting over to our council president. Thank you, Mr. Fagan. First of all, I want to announce that I have uh uh advised my colleagues to consider the
heat and the humidity and dress more casually than they might already might uh regularly do. And uh therefore, I do not have a tie and I do not have a jacket suit, but I'm much more comfortable. Uh I'm I'm a uh shorts and flip-flops guy,
but I thought that was a little bit too much. So, I do have regular clothes on. Anyway, to start the meeting, uh, Madame Clerk, please. This is to inform the general public that this meeting is being held in compliance with section 5 of the Open Public Meetings Act, chapter 231, public law 1975. The annual notice
was emailed to the Star Ledger and filed in the Township Clerk's Office on January 7th, 2025, and published in the West Orange Chronicle on January 16th, 2025. Let the record show that Councilwoman Castelino is absent this evening.
Councilwoman Ruden, here. Councilwoman Scarpa, present. Council President Koviaak, present. Mayor McCartney. Thank you, Madam Clerk. We have a full agenda tonight. So, uh, I just encourage
everybody, uh, either at public comment or up here on the DES to keep their remarks as efficient and as short as practical. Uh the first item on our consent agenda is a proclamation honoring uh former councilwoman Asmer Gberichel. Those of you who haven't
heard, uh she resigned at the end of a special uh council meeting a couple of weeks ago and we are um we are going to honor her tonight and as beffits uh Councilwoman Gber who has had some
health challenges as has her son recently uh she cannot attend tonight because she has CO. So, it is in some way fitting. Uh I just I've spoken to her a couple of times today and she sounds under the weather, but she can still speak. So, I think that's a good
sign. Uh anyway, I'm going to uh speak the proclamation and then I'm going to uh invite up uh Councilwoman Gabber Michael's father, who a lot of you uh already know. Uh but uh and we have a special treat for you after that.
Whereas as Gberich Michael has dedicated her life to public service and volunteerism, beginning as a young resident of West Orange and continuing through her professional career serving the residents of West Orange and Essex County. And whereas Azaret has made history as the first elected Ethiopian
and Aritrian in the state of New Jersey. And whereas Azaret served for seven years on the West Orange Human Relations Commission, promoting unity, diversity, and a stronger, more inclusive community. hand. Whereas in 2022, Asmer was elected to the West Orange Township
Council as the highest vote getter in that election where she served with distinction for two and a half years, bringing a fresh perspective, unwavering integrity, and an unrelenting focus on good governance and putting West Orange residents first. And whereas during her
time on the council, Asmer remained a strong advocate for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inclusivity, pardon me. And whereas beyond her elected service, Asmer has proudly served the people of West Orange and Essex County for over a decade where she
continues to work diligently to address constituent concerns and strengthen community connections. And whereas a proud mother, community leader, and advocate, Aset has balanced her professional responsibilities with unwavering devotion to her family, raising her son Marcos with the same
values of hard work, service, and compassion that she brings to her public life. And whereas Azma's tenure on the council was defined by her courage to stand firmly for what is right, her willingness to ask the tough questions, and her steadfast commitment to representing the residents with
integrity, transparency, and authenticity. And now therefore, be it resolved that the Township Council of West Orange hereby recognizes and honors as McGraber Michael for outstanding service, leadership, and continued dedication to the people of West Orange, Essex County,
and the state of New Jersey. And be it further resolved that we express our sincere gratitude for her contributions and wish her continued success, fulfillment, and joy in all of her future endeavors. Thank you very much. So I want to invite up uh Aset's father.
Uh he is known popularly as Cass Gabber Michael. uh very prominent citizen here in town and just want to present this to him and let him say a few words. Let me just give and we might have a we might have a picture here. Thank you. Thanks.
And I and I just want to say one more thing before I turn it over. I have never met a more principled politician in my entire life than Asaret and she has taught me a thing or two about the importance of principles and I
think that's due to her parents in part. So anyway, I just want to let Cass talk. Thank you. Appreciate it. Good evening. Ah, good evening everyone. I'm Ammer's father, test Michael, and I'm here
speaking on behalf her behalf. She wishes more than anything that she could be here in person tonight. But once again, the universe had other plans. She missed the election night because of CO and tonight
she got CO too. It's amazing. And now unfortunately she missing the special recognition for the same reason I guess the university is keeping her humble but even from home she didn't want to miss
the chance to say thank you thank you to the township of West Orange her colleagues her incredible community for his for this honor since she couldn't be here she asked the person
she most proud of her son our grandson Marcos to share a few words on her behalf. Thank you. Good evening. Good good evening everyone. My name is Marcos and I'm Councilwoman Asmer's son.
Unfortunately, my mom couldn't be here tonight because she's home recovering from COVID, but she asked me to be here and share these words on beha on her behalf. First, on her behalf of my mom, I wanted I want to thank the township of West Orange for this incredible honor. Being recognized by the town that raised
her, where her roots run deep is something she will carry with her for the rest of her life. To our family, friends, and everyone who came out tonight, thank you. Your love and support has been the foundation that has carried her throughout this d journey. To my grandparents, mommy's parents,
your example shaped everything she is. Your selfless service, your strength, your and your love for this community that inspired her from a young age. You taught her to lead it with heart, to never forget where she comes from, and to always make room at the table for others. And to me, her son Marcos, she
says I'm her greatest blessing. She says I'm the reason she fights so hard. every time she speaks up or shows up. It's because she wants me to see what strength, integrity, and purpose looks like. And she hopes I always know how proud
she is to be my mom. To our Ethiopian and Aritrian community, thank you for being her village, her heritage, and her strength. You have shown her what resilience looks like, and your unwavering support has meant everything. and to her West Orange
Village in Essex County village. Thank you for always being there for her. Throughout every success, every challenge, and every hard-fought moment, you stood by her, lifted her, and reminded her why community matters. Your encouragement, your faith in her, and your friendships have made this journey possible. She also asked me to express
her deepest gratitude to Essex County Executive Joe D. Vincentza and Chief of Staff Filia, my mom's bosses. Joe D, thank you for believing in her. Your leadership has been nothing short of extraordinary. She says you are without question not only the greatest county
executive but one of the greatest elected official this country has ever seen. The transformation of an Essex County under your leadership from financial crisis to a trip AA bond rating. From struggling public spaces to worldclass parks and facilities is remarkable. You've shown us all you've
shown all of us what good governance truly looks like. and Phil, thank you for being the study force behind so much of that success. Your mentorship, your strategic mind, and your heart for public service has helped many has helped shape her into the leader she is today. No textbook or her masters and
public administration degree could have prepared her from her more than the lesson she learned from both of you. Serving the people of West Orange and your council and as your council woman has been one of the greatest honors of her life. Every decision she made came with came from a place at a place of
service, love, and responsibility to people who put their trust in her. Even even through the most difficult moments, she stayed true to who she is because our residents deserve no less. Tonight's recognition is not just about her. It is about all of us. It is about the community, is about representation, and
is about never giving up even when the path gets hard. And most of all, it is about leaving something better behind for the next generation. Thank you for believing in her. Thank you for walking with her. And thank you for allowing her the privilege of serving. And as her son, I just want to say how proud I am
of my mom. Finish. Okay. If if we could I would like to make make a remark on behalf of my colleague if I can. Um um council councilwoman Gabra Michael
and I shared well first of all tonight and deachu um we shared a love of watt shiro inara denich atkilt and it was sort of the basis of my
original love for for Asaret. Um, I was so sad um that she resigned, but I respect her decision to prioritize her health. Um, serving the public while managing a full-time job, raising a wonderful son, and having a serious
spinal injury is not easy. Um, all of the love that this room has brought to her has has helped her through this difficult time. And I'm just so sorry that she can't be on the deis with us at this point. Um, Asaret brought strength, principle, and an unwavering voice to
this council. She wasn't afraid to challenge challenge long-standing issues, including the unacceptable practice of allowing the township attorney to operate without a contract for over a year, something she fought to end. She also brought diversity and
representation to our governing body, and her presence mattered to this council and to our community. I will miss her voice, her conviction, and our work together. I'll work I'll miss having her sitting next to me just to be
able to laugh with her. I wish her a full recovery and thank her for her dedicated service to West Orange. Betines Yitfu, which means I think speedy speedy
healing. Okay, I said it right. Okay, thank you, Councilman. I agree with everything you said. And I'd now like to uh ask uh Councilwoman Scarpa if she has any uh further comments. Please. Yes, I do. I
want to say that I agree with everything that both of you have said. Councilwoman Deborah Michael has been a committed council member and friend, and her love of public service has always been so
evident in every endeavor she and I undertook together and of course all those that she undertook on her own and she will always be in my prayers. Thank you, Councilwoman. Okay, next item on the conference
agenda. Uh uh yeah, I don't know anything about this. So if whoever authorized you to do this, just please Okay. Well, please please come forward. Please come forward then. Yeah, I didn't get official, but I knew
that she would be here and I could not not be here tonight to say something about Asaret and to present to her to let her know that the West Orange African Heritage Organization honors her and thanks her for the dedication, service, and commitment to our organization and to the West Orange
Township. Councilwoman Asaret Gabber Michael, your presence, of course, as everyone everyone has said, will be sorely missed. So, we're here to present you hopefully something that you will keep forever because it's our name and your
picture on this plaque that we love and adore you so very much. orange people here. Can you just come just put a picture? Just look at I don't want to take over. It's just that we love Edgar so much and we just want to let her know in this picture that we
appreciate her and we don't miss her. Okay, look this way. One more beautiful. Is there anyone else who wants Is there anyone else who wants to honor Councilwoman Gammer Michael? This is the
time. Thank you everyone and uh uh thank you everyone. Uh next on the agenda, if I may, is a proclamation uh celebrating Junth from Mayor McCartney. Mayor McCartney, please. So good evening everyone and maybe from
people in the viewing audience you can see that the council chamber is is full. Um people well wishes for aset um we just wish her godspeed. It's lovely to see so many family and friends here um
to wish her well. So it was a lovely tribute and proclamation. So, this proclamation, uh, I don't see Tammy Williams here, um, but it we kicked off this weekend with the sports and games at the recreation department this first
summer weekend. They had lovely familyfriendly um, event over at the town pool, people of all ages. It was a lovely evening on Friday. And under the leadership of former councilwoman Tammy Williams,
Tammy started our Junth establishing that here in West Orange back in 2020. It has grown into a lovely event. It brought people to the West Orange Public Library to hear authors, children's authors, film, uh the West Orange Arts
Council had a beautiful art exhibit um and another presentation educational forum uh filmed there also and again at Luda stage. So it was um highlighting the entire weekend um of events for
bringing the whole community together uh over the weekend for junth. So this proclamation is really for the committee the junth committee that put that together for our township and also this weekend I wanted to thank Zufall Health
our new neighbors across the street. They've only been there a year. And on Saturday morning, they provided free dental care for over 100 veterans, which is just very important for our veterans in the surrounding area. So, it was a
wonderful kickoff to summer and I will present this to Tammy when I see her. Thank you, Council President. Thank you, Mayor. And next on the agenda is the a presentation on a feasibility study for town-owned buildings. We've been waiting
for a long time. I just want to uh uh pass this over to to interim business administrator Pete Smaldo uh to introduce our guest. Please. Council President, members of the council, uh I'd like to uh bring to
the podium the mutual group. Um, I'm going to wait till everybody's Oh, shoot. And father, I'll handle it. I don't want Okay. Um, council president um just to state before this is u Mr. Null Musual
Senior and Junior Null Jr. who who are the mutual group who just recently completed for us the feasibility study in and around the township buildings and um and as your request and what we wanted to present to the council for consideration is their findings in the
report. They do have copies for every member of the of the um the council um for so you can you can keep for yourself but they're also going to present tonight and we can go do we have a copy of those guys so we can ask in the u the way of introductions I'm no
musual of the musual group I'm one of those fortunate people that has my son with me in practice at as well. And just to give you right a little bit of um background on the firm, make it very quick so you know who we are. I started
the firm in 1976 and one of the first projects we did was the Rosel Municipal Building. So we've been designing municipal facilities throughout the state of New Jersey for close to uh 50 years now. Um thank you.
As I said, null is uh with me now, but um currently the uh uh township of West Orange is using two buildings close to each other, 66 uh uh main, which is um
and the uh Lakeside building. And what we did was evaluate each of the buildings and our objectives were were simple. um to address the and increase the demand for office space and the
needs for um the uh of the community. Relocate and group different departments together mainly for the ease of the public to uh service the public uh in a much more efficient way. uh the and to
quantify the space needs of the uh uh community and develop a conceptual plan of the various locations and examine the pros and cons of the various uh department relocations. Um, in addition
to to this, we also came up with a very rough cost estimate so you could see the area of magnitude that all these renovations would take place. I think Noler touched upon some of the considerations but earlier but you know
uh trying to think about um aspects of relocating the departments and and how those various departments uh interact with the public. Um, I think, you know, thinking about, um, the property at at Mount Pleasant Avenue, uh, being adjacent to Town Hall and and
potentially moving some department, uh, municipal departments to that facility to, uh, gain some additional square footage within this building, um, to to move, uh, and and, uh, uh, give some efficiencies of of of, uh, of of the
circulation and uh, and the and the municipal uh, functions. So um the approach was really in two steps. There's the factf finding and then there's the uh the synthesis which
is uh taking all of the all of the uh investigations that we had done um during the analysis stage. Uh and that comprised of uh these departmental questionnaires which we would give to the various department heads and and get their um responses relative to
departmental size. um hours uh types of spaces um that required and that abled uh enabled us to to gain some perspective in terms of how much square footage is is there now uh as opposed to what is proposed and projected in in the
future. So as as no senior said the four the four sites u 10 circle the Lakeside Avenue Mount Pleasant Avenue and and here at 66 Main Street. So parallel to those uh investigations,
parallel to those uh interviews, we we also looked into the spatial allocation of the existing site and and see how um the the various departments um were uh were situated and how much square footage each one of them uh took up
within the building. And so that gave us this uh understanding of where the various departments are and how much space they take up. as well as as looking into the Tenry Circle and Mount Pleasant Avenue.
So, this is an example of one of the um one of the departments. In the report, we have this this matrix for each department that was uh gained information via the questionnaire and it gave an understanding of how the department is organized and and what uh
elements are comprise within that with the department. So that ties into adjacency requirements, what offices would be beneficial to be next to each other, how much um storage space is needed uh and and and the hours of
operation and things like that. So each department had this and and at the the end of it, it enabled us to come to an understanding of how much space is projected to be needed versus how much space is currently available. And so that led us to the uh synthesis
portion of the the investigation where we started to look into um how based on the the discussions and and uh interview process, how we could find efficiencies in the various departments and how they could be next to each other. um
all all keeping in mind the the um the objectives from the beginning uh of the uh of the presentation. So this is the proposed municipal building. Um we can see here that the um the uh purchasing
department um well on the second floor that the the in the green the tax assessor and tax collection um is uh filling in the the void space where the building department uh previously had been.
And back to back down to the first floor plan where we see the the administrative uh portion of the building which is in the towards the left in the purple. um how that can become more condensed and consolidated. And then we have uh at 10 Rooney how um based on the investigations and and the
discussions with user groups um uh senior services could be potentially located um in the lower level of the uh the 10 uh Rooney uh address uh as well as the uh increased spatial requirements for the the Jity services
and the proposed plan for the consolidation of the uh building department and zoning engineering. And so based on all this, we we looked into the pros and cons of of the what would be required in each one of these
uh facilities. So one of the pros of of undertaking uh peace meal renovations here is there's a conservation of resources. We there's existing infrastructure here um to take advantage of and and frankly it's just it's a more sustainable um viewpoint to try to
modify uh what's existing. Although that does have um implications in terms of project schedule which does tie into cost as well. Um limited uh uh uh li construction cost savings due to due to the limited renovations. Now granted one
of the cons of that is that some of the renov renovated spaces will be just that they'll be renovated versus um you know adjacent spaces might be unchanged. Um so again the pros of the administration it's consolidated on the first floor. uh purchasing is close to the finest
department. It also allows for future flexibility given that some of the files it's understanding will be digitized in the future and that will uh will gain some square footage in in that respect. Housing office accessible to the public and the shared multi-purpose room be
used um by multiple departments. some of the cons in addition to what um you know said earlier, the there are issues in terms of AD accessibility and universal access um you know the just the entry to the the building itself um you know is is grandfathered in but that is
potentially an issue um and code compliance uh in terms of uh harder travel distances uh things like that in terms of um the adjacent building at 46 Mount Pleasant Avenue. So one of the benefits is that uh there's a
consolidation of departments there uh and and uh gives the public the ability to to access multiple departments um at that one location. Um there's also the the potential to expand into the third uh third part
tenant space in the future. Um some of the cons of of that are you know using existing stairwells the third party uh currently there um would uh there potentially if things were to be uh as they are and not reconfigured there's a
potential security um uh cross circulation between the tenant and the municipal functions. And then there's there's issues of of parking being uh at the lower level versus the entry level. And then at at Ten Rooney, um the
relocation of the Jity services allow for better access to the premises and senior services which would be located at that that lower level. Um there's more space for the seniors to to conduct events um and and additional space for for future uses.
Some of the drawbacks of that facility um renovations would be that the entrance to the building from the parking lot would need to be altered to allow for better accessibility. Uh again, accessible parking space would need to be located closer to the entrance and there would need to be some modifications to allow uh safe eress
from the senior services area. And that led us to based on all of the um all of the impositions to these buildings uh led us to understand uh based on square foot costs um some some
rough cost estimates to undertake those And and keep in mind these are uh rough uh cost estimates for construction only at today's cost and everybody knows things are very fluid in the construction industry right now. But
this at least gives you a magnitude of um of what the overall cost for all all the uh projects um might be. We tried to make it short and sweet. The U presentation is a lot uh condensed
than the actual report which is over 50 some odd pages. So we have uh copies of the report to to give you all. So thank you. Could I just ask a follow-up question? Sure. on the estimate for the
construction costs at 46 Mount Pleasant Avenue, which is the remaining part of our former library building. What are you anticipating or the major uh construction elements uh in that estimate? If my memory serves me
correctly, I think some of it was the handicap accessibility that's needed for that. And the uh remember we're redoing all the uh new walls, new HVAC, all that uh construction as opposed to what we're
doing in the municipal building which is just very more cosmetic than than uh construction. Sounds good. Are you including any sort of uh elevator service as part of the construction? No. Okay. Yeah, the ele
council president, the elevator is currently in there and it's operating. It may need some um servicing, but it doesn't need to be replaced at this time. Yeah. And you you may need some lockoffs to certain areas and things of that nature, but it's minor in terms of costs.
Thank you. And what do you see as the next step timeline uh going forward on? I think that's up to uh council and mayor and counsel in terms of timeline. I think you have to uh take it to the next step which is developing those
concept plans. Assuming that everybody agrees with the concept plans and the locations of of all departments, you now have to take it to the next step and develop a set of design development drawings because these are a little bit more than pure concepts. So you can take
it to the next step which is probably design development which would take three to four months and construction documents which would take another three or four months. But I think the first thing is do you all agree with the locations of the various departments and
all that and what massaging do we have to undertake to make it more in line with what you're all making. Okay. Can I offer my opinion? I know that this was I'm not sure if this was communicated to you, but in July of 2019 when um the the
Albert group um bought the library, the public was promised um 7,500 square ft of community space, the space that you're now um projecting would be used for the engineering department. But
the public was under the belief that that was going to be a satellite library or a meeting place and especially for the seniors. To me, it makes sense to keep that as a senior area because most
of our seniors who are living down here live right there in the two new buildings and it's it's um accessible um and it's easy for them to get to and there could be programming there as well
as moving in the um arts council which could be a nice hub for there instead of spending what I would see is a lot of money redesigning the library which is really inapproachable not only for seniors but for a lot of
the community. Um there are real substantive problems in terms of entrance and exit and ADA compliance whereas here there is none. So my my vote because of the promise that that the mayor made to the public and because
that this community really thought that that was intended for the public would be to keep this as a senior space and a satellite library especially also for the surrounding community which really has suffered quite a bit by losing our
local library. Certainly another approach for sure. Okay. So, if I may, um, please, when we when we did do this study, what we looked at was that feasibility and we look very hard to make this into the senior center
and into, um, into uh other activities. The the biggest hurdle we have that 7,500 ft there. and um and speaking with Miss Van Djk who runs the the department of senior services, she wanted to have an area and space that accommodate 150
to 200 people which the space couldn't obviously handle. Um and we recognize that the issue became is that it's not as accessible as we think for seniors. Um and parking, we do not have enough parking for our staff and everybody else
here. And that's when when we sat down with m Miss Van Djk and others um including some of your colleagues that work with you and we we thought of placing this um other senior up in the at executive drive and we would add a an
accessible ramp outside to the building and we would also add the transport division up there so that the jitneys can bring the people to and from right to the to and from that facility because it is going to be dedicated to um the seniors. And that was the concept. And
then what we thought would be better because of the 25 lakeside property that may be sold and and we'd have to take the building down is that to serve the citizens better in a complex here is that we would combine engineering,
building, planning, and zoning all under one roof. so that when our either our residents or our builders can come in and they can have one-stop shopping within that structure there and we don't need as much parking for those who are visiting the site. So that was the really the the thought about changing it
and so it's not 7500 ft² for the seniors but it is 4800 square ft plus the library upstairs. And we thought that in the conceptual um process that we have a place for the seniors to go during the daytime plus they also have the library
they can while they're there they can visit the library. So it's kind of addressing both those concerns and that just so you understand where that that philosophy came from and you know and obviously this is a presentation and this is a discussion but that's that's how we came up with those concepts and
developing that plan because at the end of the day 25 lakeside's going to have to be taken down. it's going to have to be removed and we have to move those people. We still have to find a place for DPW vehicles and and and things of that nature which is not part of this plan but we you know so this is this is
a large undertaking and we've been trying to we've been dealing with this for approximately a year now because we anticipate that things may be moving and we didn't want to be what behind the eightball. So that that's that's the the uh I guess the um Yeah. Yeah. and and
the understanding of how this this plan was presented to tonight. So, and obviously um as we were speaking that you know this is conceptual and this is a thought and and that's how we wanted to move forward and present that to you. Sounds good. Thank you, Mr. Smaldo. Um,
I uh would like to continue discussion here, but I think it's probably more prudent for us to go over the report and uh the presentation and come back at a later time when we're a little bit more informed with all of the expertise. So, we greatly appreciate your efforts. We
great greatly appreciate your presentation tonight and uh I suspect we will be talking. There's a lot of information in the report that's going to take some time to digest. Yes, the the study is a living document. It's intended to change. It will change over
the next few months until you finalize where you want everything to go and then it's after that is full speed. Okay, sounds good. Thank you. Thank you. Could you hold on just a second? I I've gotten a a sign that uh Councilwoman Scarpa uh
would like to speak. Councilwoman Are you on mute, Councilwoman? Yes. Okay. Um, I just want to express the concern of the budget. We are in a budget crisis and we need to get, we don't have the
money right now to do some of this stuff. We need to get the budget to zero and we need to find ways to increase our revenues. And right now we have revenues that we are generating from that library space and I would like to see us move in
the direction of increasing some of the revenues of that space. Thank you. Councilwoman, um is it possible that we can meet with you council? Okay. And do you have a card that we can reach you? And are and
um we we can set that up. Okay. Thank you. I do have some ideas. Good. Thank you so much. Yes, Mayor. Thank you. Would you like to speak, please? Thank you. Thank you, Council President. I wanted to follow up
on Councilwoman Ruden's comments because over the past year we have been conducting tours. You're absolutely right. That was supposed to be community center. We have been conducting tours with um the older adults advisory board
over the past year. All different members coming in. Uh Laura Van Dyk uh actually uh former superintendent Jerry Tarnoff was part of our committee. Um and the intent was to create that community space there. Um
you can talk to the people that have been on the tours. It really was decided that it is not as accessible uh to the seniors as we would have liked. Um so that's why we started to uh introduce other ideas and the part about
generating the revenue with the history channel fell into our lab. So that was just again why this discussion has to continue that if it is possible to generate revenue we would continue to look at ideas this was a conceptual plan um and we want to continue that
discussion but things have evolved since that original concept. Thank you. Mayor, may I ask that um this plan be put up on the website so that residents can weigh in and review the plan and often give us
our best ideas. Okay. Thank you. I think it's important that the council meets. Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much. Uh next on the agenda were are the
council liaison announcements. I'd like to suggest because of the late time period that unless there's a burning issue that needs to be speak about spoken about I'd like to uh move past that for now and move on to our public meeting. Councilwoman's council women is that
okay with you? Yes, that's fine with me. Okay. Thank you. Okay. So, it is now the time to move to our uh public meeting. And this is where Madame Clerk looks at me and looks
through me and make sure that I recognize her. So, please, Madame Clerk. Thank you, sir. This is to inform the general public that this meeting is being held in compliance with section 5 of the Open Public Meetings Act, chapter 231, Public Law 1975.
The notice for this meeting was emailed to the Star Ledger in the West Orange Chronicle on January 7th, 2025 and published in the West Orange Chronicle on January 16th, 2025. Let the record show that Councilwoman Castelino is absent this evening.
Councilwoman Ruden here. Councilwoman Scarpa present. Council President Koviaak present. Mayor McCartney. Will everyone please rise for the pledge of allegiance? I pledge algiance to the flag nation under God indivisible liberty and
justice for all. The council is now in their public meeting. Thank you, Madam Clerk. Uh before we go any further, I have some uh very sad, unfortunate news to pass on to everybody. Uh the chief judge of our
municipal court, Dennis Dow, a longtime service provider in West Orange in a number of a number of positions, including council uh council person and council president. Uh passed away earlier this week. He had been chief of
the municipal court since 2015 and uh it was the culmination of a long career in law uh where he served the community for decades. He was a a graduate of Ruters and uh got his law degree from Satan
Hall University. He uh served at the West Orange Planning Board at the uh Senior Citizens Housing Authority as an aid to the what was then known as the Essex County uh Board of Freeholders. He was aid to uh the actual president of
the of the body at that time. He was a Ruters business law professor. Uh, and perhaps most of all, he was the biggest horse racing enthusiast I think that has ever existed in the history of United
States racing. Uh, but he was uh uh provided great service to the community for decades and uh unfortunately passed away. And uh I just wanted everyone to know and those of you who are praying, I ask that you do so for him and his
family. and uh just wanted to make sure that that he was commemorated uh for his tremendous service to the to the township for decades. So, thank you. Um Mr. Fagan. Uh thank you, Council
President. If I may just expand upon that moment, uh Judge Dow's family also went back several generations in West Orange, and he once shared with me a picture of his grandfather's deli on High Street. So, his family has a long
record and deep roots here in West Orange. Uh, thank you, Council President. Uh, thank you to your uh, council colleagues, Mayor McCartney. Uh, welcome those here in public and those at home in the Zoom audience. Uh,
tonight I would like to uh, this was just posted on our website today. The garbage recycling schedule has been modified for today and for tomorrow due to the excessive heat. The details of this are on westn.org. Everyone's garbage will get picked up.
Uh but I think that their uh modified schedule is going to end at 12 o'clock. And as I say, the details are on the website. And uh although it we are going into the summer and this might not be uh hiking weather. Uh but when you do go hiking, uh tick sa tick safety is of
course very important and we have details on the website regarding this. And uh also the weather is hot now, so the uh bear sightings have kind of subside, but they were on the uh rise again last week. So there are bears in
West Orange. Uh so we have tips on our website and uh being a lifelong Chicago Bear fan, if they're Chicago Bears, they're harmless. You have nothing to worry about. Of course, I'm joking. You should um check the tips on the website. Um, uh, council chambers here is a
cooling location, designated cooling location during the heat wave, during regular business hours, as is the Cody Arena on um, uh, Northfield Avenue. Uh, tomorrow in council chambers here is
council open office hours from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary. you can come in and uh discuss your uh your concerns and your uh with council members. Uh also this week on the 26th,
we will continue our series of budget workshops here in council chambers. Uh there will be no public comment during budget workshops in person or on Zoom. Um, coincidentally, on the 26th, uh, May um,
June being Pride Month, uh, there's going to be a celebration here in front of, uh, town hall, um, as part of downtown Thursdays. Now, I understand this is a rain or shine event. So, if you plan on coming, don't let the weather uh, prevent you from coming. And if the weather is bad enough, my
understanding is that this will be moved inside to uh, Benji's. So, uh, come on out, uh, for the, uh, launch of downtown Thursdays, uh, with a pride celebration. Uh, Mayor McCartney's Mayor McCartney, excuse me, mayor next open office hours
are on July 10th. I point that out because this will occur before our next council meeting. This information will be posted on social media and the website. Um, as was mentioned earlier, there was a uh art exhibit at for Junth
at the West Orange Arts Council. That exhibit is through July 12th. So, even though Jun has passed, the art exhibit is still uh uh there until uh June uh July 12th. Uh also, um concerning trees on our website, uh disease and bug
infestation, uh know the signs, stop the spread. There's very important information on our website. This is in our scroll. you can easily click into that and uh find out uh important information if you have any concerns about the trees on your property. Um the
West Orange Mayor program for Uniquely Gifted will kick off with a pizza party at the pool. Um this is on July 9th from 5:30 to 7:30. There is a minimal cost, residents $6, uh non-residents $7, and you can register, sign up for this
event, uh through community pass, or you can contact Doug Adams at 9732431169. This will be on our social media. Also, as a reminder, a tree tree removal is required in West Orange. And if you
go to our website, westtor.org, org and uh search forestry division, you will find all the information you need to know about tree removal uh in West Orange. Very important. Um also I post on our website this morning
pets from West Orange Animal Welfare League. Uh there's more information about this at west uh.org. It will take you to an active link that shows all the uh the pets available for adoption. Uh if you're thinking about uh bringing a
pet into your household, you might want to consider adoption uh before uh before anything else. And if you have a pet or adopt a pet, uh it's equally important to as a reminder to pick up after your pet. Be a good neighbor. And uh I was surprised to see it, but it is up to a
$700 fine. So So be be a responsible pet owner and pick up after your pet. Um the uh this past Friday was the sports and games night sponsored by the West Orange recreation department. A very successful event. And um I want to mention here
that there's swim lessons also available at the Jimmy Duncle pool. And um the there was a sheet on the podium here must have got uh misplaced with all the presentation that was going on here. but also uh about um pool memberships. And
of course, this information is on our website, the West uh with under the West Orange Recreation Department. Uh speaking of the West Orange Recreation Department, it's hard to believe that July 4th is almost upon us and we will once again have a schedule of events,
food trucks um at the Tennessee Circle. That's the West Orange Library parking lot. There's going to be uh music, dancing, food trucks, and just fun in general. Uh also, Ospac um season begins. It was
scheduled on June 14th. Stella Blues Band, they got rained out. It was kicked out to the rain. Unfortunately, the rain got rained out. So, that will hopefully be rescheduled at some point in the future. Uh but July 11th to 19th uh hopefully the weather will cooperate and
uh uh Pleasant Valley Productions will prevent Jesus Christ Superstar. This information will be on our website. Also um the West Orange Department of Senior Services had a busy that's a bit of a mis misnomer because they have a busy
month every month. Uh but this month was um uh I'm not really sure what these events represent. uh I was told but I forgot. Um but they're uh they always engage the uh community service unit. They partner with them and they're usually present at many of their events.
Uh and these look like these were arts and crafts and dinners and of course uh that's Laura Van Dyke recognizable in the lower right hand corner. So um you can check on our website with the uh Department of Senior Services. Uh they have a lot of events going on not just
in May but in every month. So with that, Council President, uh, I'd like to turn the floor over to my colleague, Mr. Plesi. Mr. Plesi, welcome. Uh, good evening. Anthony Plesi representing County Executive Joe
Definchenzo. Um, just want to bring uh your attention to three upcoming uh multi-day events. Uh, I'm going to start with our summer concert series. It was supposed to start tonight. However, it's hot. So, we've uh actually postponed tonight's concert and
tomorrow's concert uh into August. Uh but the um uh season begins now and will continue through the end of August. We have 27 dates alto together throughout the park system and including one uh concert at Eagle Rock Reservation uh at
the beginning of August. Uh and then also we have three um Fourth of July uh concerts with fireworks at Weekquake Park, Branchford Park, and uh Brookdale Park. Um then in July is uh Parks and
Recreation Month. Um all month long at uh the uh Clipper Pavilion at the uh Orange Reservoir, uh our um our wellness on the waterfront events uh which includes yoga, workout, and concerts.
And then in conjunction with that at Turtleback Zoo in June and July, sorry, uh July and July and August, our extended evening hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays where the zoo is open until 7:00 p.m. Uh in addition on Wednesdays, we have a series of uh kid-friendly
movies uh that will be shown at the zoo. Uh and it's a great time to visit the zoo in the evenings when it's a little cooler out um and you get to see the animals more in motion than you would on a hot day. Of course, all this is on our website which is essex countyj.org.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Plesi. Uh in preparation for public comment at today's meeting, I want to confirm that we are all on the same page on how public comment is regulated. Uh as per our ordinance, we recently returned to the practice of public speakers speaking
from the podium next to the deis. Uh we cannot line up in the aisles as in recent meetings. Please raise your hand. First be recognized by the chair then directed to come from your location uh uh closer to the uh front of the
of the uh the seating and uh and then come to the council uh come to the deis. Um if you want to save time between speakers, you can move closer to the front of the benches. If you would like to speak at public comment, uh uh
um I just want to read you uh some excerpts from our ordinance. uh ordinance requires that uh speakers to first state their name and address and if you decline to do so
regardless of the reason I will not be able to allow you to continue and we'll time limits that are required uh the time limit section of our ordinance requires the conduct of public speakers who quote shall at no time engage in any
personally offensive or abuse use of remarks. The chair shall call any speaker to order who violates any provision of this rule. End quote. Conduct of the public. quote, "Any person who shall disturb the peace of the township council, make offensive or
abusive remarks, or conduct himself or herself in a boisterous manner while addressing the council shall be forth with barred by the presiding officer from further audience before the council, except that if the speaker shall submit to proper order under these rules, permission for him or her to
continue may be granted by a majority vote of the council." I'm a big First amendment fan, a big US Constitution guy. So, I want everyone to have a chance to seek redress from their government. I'm also a big fan of civility, and I think a lack of civility and manners contributes to our political
conflict and inability to reach a middle ground. So, council is a place to discuss our differences and often to find compromise to make West Orange an even better place to live. So, I urge all of us to treat everyone as they would like to be treated. You can make
your point without cursing or insulting anyone and I will enforce the audience. Thank you. Is there anybody who'd like to speak? I see there was a very quick hand in the third row over here. Yes, please come up
and then after Yeah, you're the second row. I saw your hand next. You can come up in the pink hat. So, please come forward to the the podium here. You're you're you're right. You're on point. Please come to the Mr. Robinson. Mr. Robinson. No. No, please look look at
me. Look at me, please. Please come to the deis here. This makes it easier for people to hear you if you're facing partially to the deis and partially to the benches. So, that's where we'd like you to be. Moren Robinson,
um 200 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Crossridge Apartments, J7. Um, Councilwoman, good evening everybody. Uh, Councilwoman Ruden, did you get my message? I I text
you. I was trying to avoid some things. So, maybe you didn't get it. I'm not I'm not uh Was it today? No. No. Was it a week or so ago? Please, I I have to I have to correct you, Miss Robinson. We want to hear what you have to say, but it's not a dialogue under our ordinance.
You just speak for up to five minutes and then we will respond uh when everybody is finished. Well, yes, please don't. Yes, you should direct your comments to the council as a whole or to me. Thank you. All right. Well, the
issue the issue now um you know most of you know my story, but the issue now is um my apartment is um there's an issue with carpenter ants. And if you don't know what a carpenter
ant is, I'm going to Can I just put this here? Certainly. And show you. It's a ant that if I had to classify it as a former teacher, I would say it's a special needs ant. Okay. And when you go
to kill it, it goes lateral on you. And when you do catch it and kill it, I'm not scared of them, but I don't want my apartment infested with them. Okay. Uh they pop and you hear them pop. I asked them on the portal to
um come and exterminate my apartment inside. So what they did on June 4th, they came and they exterminated outside and they said that they came to my apartment but I wasn't
home and as a senior citizen I have a lot of uh uh doctor's appointments. So I normally what they do the previous management they would make an appointment and and and come and handle
the business. This time they just pop up. They have a standard where they just pop up the the beginning of the month and they come and they um you know exterminate the perimeter. But see mine was an emergency and I'm still having
that having that problems. Um the other thing is I um is the water. We had an issue with water. There are no meters in any of the apartments.
yet we're charged for water. So I took them to court um and the and their own attorney said, "Well, how do you charge someone for water meters?" There was no answer. We have we
got some things resolved, but the issue of paying but I agreed I just to for peace sake I agreed to go ahead and and pay the money for the water. Okay. Um I believe um that you know if you have a
business or if you're professional there's a certain decorum certain way you carry yourself certain way you respect people because that's what you want in return. So just popping up to my house you know and thinking that they're
going to come in. I let nobody in my house but me, my dog, and Jesus. That's it. and I'm not letting you in. And that and that and that's it. But I wasn't even home. So now I missed that appointment. But anyway, my grandson
called your health department and right away the same day I want to say say this, my grandson was surprised. He doesn't live with me. He live in Brooklyn, but he handles business for me. Mr. Eli D E S I R Le and um he saw
the uh we gave him the thing on the um you know uh for the ants and so he said he was going to take care of it. He came on the 18th. However, nothing has happened, which means that,
you know, they probably don't even plan to do anything. So, I have some ideas about what I want to do, and it's not it's not basically what I should be doing. See, because I'm not going to live in a in an antinfested place, and
that's it. That's it. So, I would like for them if there's anything could be that could be done, you know, to handle that. Handle that. Okay. That's what the ants look like. Okay. And thank you for
listening and everybody have a safe evening. Thank you, Mrs. M. Robinson. Uh, I'm going to break protocol and just ask if you could leave your phone number or an email address so that you already have it. She handles business. Okay.
Councilman Ruden does handle business. Yes. Thank you. All right. Please come up. Okay. In his pink hat. No. Sheila. Mr. Yes.
Mi Mr. Trackctenberg. Mr. Trackenberg. Will you come up next after this speaker, please? Okay. Good evening, council members. Good evening, West Orange. Sheila Lecoit, 703 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange. I
stand before you today to urge you to return the budget to the administration, and demand that each department makes cuts to zero out any raise in taxes. I speak on behalf of many of my neighbors and friends who, like me, have not seen
a rise in income to meet the real estate tax increase starting with the third quarter payment. that we that is as much of as a 100% increase and beyond for the taxes we do pay. We can't even enjoy
fireworks, a timehonored tradition that is celebrated in almost every town in America. There's just no excuse for that. The te the tradition to celebrate July 4th dates back to John Adams, our founding father. And he said that
America's independence should be celebrated with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, and illumination. I'd like to see some illumination, please. Haven't seen it in years. The booms and flashes of
fireworks evoke a sense of patriotism and wonder, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. It's a timehonored tradition. And it's time it's a time when families and friends gather and
share stories and create lasting memories. Simon and Garfuncle wrote a song called The Silent of Silence. It talks about the eerie silence that can creep into our communities when we prioritize fear over freedom. The cancellation of
fireworks, a tradition that brought joy and excitement to our community, is a reminder of the silence that can descend upon us. When we let fear dictate our actions, we shut down fireworks because we're afraid
of violence. Our taxes fund a police department and a town hall staff who are subject matter experts on safety and programming for our community. We can do this. And then there's the issue of public comment via Zoom. By restricting this
opportunity for citizens to vocalize their opinions and concerns, we're essentially silencing their voices. This is a fundamental aspect of democracy. Please prioritize a return to Zoom public comment. I'm the caregiver for my
93year-old mother. It's very hard for me to devote time to coming to this town hall to speak at public comment at a time when taxpayers are being forced to pay exorbitant real estate increases. Um,
lastly, I urge the council not to fill the vacant seat vacated by Councilwoman Verra Michael's resignation. Let the voters have the opportunity to choose their representatives in an election. Rather than having it decided by
appointment, it would be more democratic. The fiasco of the gas blower ban arguments that filled the air in this chambers for hours on end, meeting after meeting, just led to contentiousness. And in case you haven't heard,
landscapers in town have raised the rates like never before in anticipation of having to buy new electric technology that may not even be necessary if the ban does not materialize when hopefully defeated in an upcoming referendum as it
should be. I urge this council and this administration to start from a place of strength, honesty, and duty and not fear. when addressing our budget by returning it to the administration
and amplifying the voices of the people of West Orange in public comment via Zoom and in directly directly electing the council person to fill the current vacancy. And for God's sakes, please bring back the July 4th fireworks in
2026. Let's celebrate America. Let's celebrate West Orange. No more fear. Uh, please I ask even though I I know that everybody admires Miss Le Kowitz's comments, please keep your uh applause
to perhaps outside if you can. If you can't keep from applauding, please. Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak? I I I could see some action back there in the in the back. I can see Miss Lenek.
Miss Lenek, you're you're next. Okay. And then the young woman in the orange dress, you will be next. Okay. Yes. Following her. Yes. Mr. Trackenberg. It's so good to see you again. Good to see you, council president, council member, and uh
council member at a distance. Councilwoman Scarpa. Uh I'm Paul Tractenberg, 96 Sullivan Drive. Uh, as you probably know, I was a founder and president of the original we care organization from the late 1990s until
2016. I'm now chairman emeritus, how I hate that word, ameritus, but of the new weare organization. That means for most of the past 27 years, I've been involved in the fight to preserve 120 acre parcel
in West Orange as open space. in connection with the latest uh development application of that unique and precious site. We can't keep tiptoeing around what I fear is an ugly truth that the 2020 actions that have
ens snared us in a situation that I believe is deeply antithetical to the best interests of West Orange and its residents was a corrupt process. And let me explain. During the year of COVID when normal life and processes were
deeply disrupted, that was 2020, uh the spring and summer of 2020, at least three things happened that put us on a track to the current dilemma we have with that property. Um,
number one, settlement agreements were entered into to facilitate, if not require, the excessive and inappropriate development of a unique and precious West Orange site. Secondly, a so-called fairness hearing an ensuing court order
happened in July, solely by Zoom, that put a judicial impremature on the settlement agreements. And then third, the trifecta. The West Orange Township Council adopted in October of 2020 a so-called inclusionary housing ordinance
regarding only that site, which was based on the settlement agreements and the court order. Let's be honest, the township's large affordable housing obligation is the tail that wagged this entire unsemly and I think even corrupt
dog. In my judgment, without a 100 affordable units, the proposal currently before the West Orange Planning Board would have no chance of being approved. After all, in 2006, the planning board denied by a 5-2 vote an application by
the same developer, same site for 136 single family homes. They denied it because it was too dangerous and it was too environmentally destructive. Now, with all the same, we're actually demonstrabably greater risks. The planning board is considering an
application for 496 apartments, more than 3.6 times as many as the number of units uh that resulted in a denial. To approve it, the planning board would have to exempt this project and this
project alone, no other project in West Orange, from all of West Orange's protective ordinances adopted by this council, including the recently unanimously adopted tree ordinance, which took probably a year to be
formulated before its unanimous adoption, and the steep slope ordinance, which which was adopted in the aftermath of the Ron Jolin disaster on Northfield. How do I know this? How do I know that
uh this project is on a kind of grease fast track? Because that's pre precisely what the developers attorney has urged on the planning board and unfortunately what the planning board seems inclined to accept as its role. That is to say,
just to decide whether the application conforms to the inclusionary housing ordinance adopted by the 2020 council that it might be harmful, even dangerous for the residents of West Orange and adjoining communities and destructive of
a unique environmental and historical site seems to be beyond what the planning board has expressed concern about. Uh, but it should not be beyond yours or ours as residents of West Orange.
Why did I label this project as corrupt? Let me count the ways. Number one, the existence of the planning board's 2006 denial of the developer's prior application was not included in the record before the court. Number two, nor
was the Fair Share Housing Center, New Jersey's statewide champion of affordable housing, aware of that denial and many other crucial factors when it enters into the key settlement agreement. Three agreements the
developer had entered into with Verona, we care, and a large group of Essex Valley's homeowners over the years which inhibited its development. Your time is up. Were also not disclosed, Mr. Trackenberg, could I ask you to finish your uh your sentence or your thought as
quickly as possible? Well, I uh let me jump to the bottom line, which is that uh uh I think we have from the mayor's own words, if you look at the vision zero plan, her primary commitment to
represent and protect the safety and well-being of West Orange residents. That's something I think we all should adopt and embrace, including the council. Uh, I have copies of my statement which is unfortunately substantially longer than I've been able
to deliver. I'll leave them for you. That would be great. You can leave them right there on the edge of the deis if if you'd like to. Thank you. Uh, thank you. Yes. Please, please be recognized by the chair before you come forward. Go ahead, Miss Lenek, please.
And then you with the red ribbon, you may be next. And then Mr. Polo, I can see you. I'm sorry. I take that back. I take that back. I'm sorry. Uh, the woman in the orange dress is next. Then we'll get you with the red uh Oh, is it pink?
I beg your pardon. And then Mr. Panolo, I think you wanted to follow Mr. Tractenburg. So, I want to just if if you can just be a little bit more patient, we'll get we'll get to the back. Please, please go ahead. Susan Lanchek, 234 Eagle Rock Avenue.
On April 22nd, Dynamic Traffic and Level G Associates presented their research on the parking situation in West Orange. I am wondering, has the administration and/or the council reviewed the report and considered any of the findings,
conclusions, and recommendations? One of the issues discussed was permit parking in residential areas where there are homes without driveways. This also was mentioned during the planning board meetings while discussing the 410 Main Street application.
There are many taxpaying homeowners in that area, that is the Park Drive loop and vicinity, as well as other areas of the township who have no driveways and experience enormous stress when there is no place in the neighborhood in which to park their vehicles.
This situation has not improved and in fact continues to worsen. Do you have any idea of what it is like to be a prisoner of a parking space? To be stuck working late at night and know that there is a likelihood that you will not be able to park anywhere near your
home when you arrive late. We beg you help. This this is a continuing problem and it just has not been addressed. Will you please implement permit parking? Will you please address this issue?
On another note, I offer my thanks to former councilwoman Gber Michael for her dedicated service to the citizens of this township. I regret that health issues make it impossible for her to finish her term. I wish her a full recovery.
I recognize that we citizens do not have a say in her replacement, although that would be a nice idea, but I would ask the council to consider this. Councilwoman Gber Michael was the highest vote getter in the 2022 election. Therefore, it would seem logical to
appoint someone with the same or very similar vision and philosophy as the council woman. And if you are considering former council members, you should consider someone whose votes on issues before the council most closely aligned with hers.
The name that comes to mind is former Councilman Rutherford. That would seem to me to be a way of respecting the citizens who entrusted Councilwoman Gberel to represent them. Thank you. Thank you. Please,
Bonnie. I apologize. And you. Good evening. My name is Florence Smith. I live in 200 Mount Pleasant Avenue, apartment K9. Um I was I came in before regarding some
issues in Press Ridge apartment. Um first of all I want to focus on what's going on on um last week. I've been for seven um last week um November during Thanksgiving. I called because there was
some things that need to be repaired in the apartment. My bathroom has been repaired four times. Apparently they're not using good products to sustain water. So they have to come in four times they have repaired. I've been
living there for 9 years. So finally it's done. The reason why it got done I had to put a township in West Orange the rent level board and tenant complaint form that which expedited the bathroom repair. So that was good. I put that in
on Thursday. By Friday I got a phone call. Now my bathroom is finally I'm able to use the bathroom. In the meantime, that was Friday told me I could use the bathroom. Saturday, I turned the water on and the force had kept flipping
around. I thought this was urgent. Water leak. I called him up. I called the emergency line. No one answered. I called the other individual phone number. I said to him, "Tell me how to turn the water off." He told me to go in
the other bathroom, turn the water off, and it the steam water just kept leaking. I thought that would been addressed immediately, but did that didn't taken care of till Monday morning. So here we want to pay tenants to pay for water and here you wasted water. So my um so that's one issue. So
that's the water is taken care of. The refrigerator has been repaired four times. I was told several times, we don't replace appliances, we repair them. Okay. For how long? Nine years I'm living there. You repair four times. My
food is spoiling right now. The temperature in the refrigerator, the ice cream is not staying frozen. The temperature at the bottom. I have buttermilk that's left there. And you can see how it's defrost has freeze. Defrost has freeze. That's my gauge. I was told this week it will be arriving
in your refrigerator. So, I'm just letting you know that's been taken care of because of this weight. Another thing I wanted to talk about, um, if we can consider Crest Ridge apartment,
the the landlord who owns the property, I don't think that property is to make money. I think it's an investment. That means tenants who were living there, that money is not to put in your pocket. It's to invest into the apartment. When
I made that complaint, I was asked that, "Oh, um, I was told then you can move to another apartment." That's what I was told. And I said to her, "That's not for me. I can't do this right now to move to another." Obviously, if I move, I would
have to pay for water. Now, I don't pay for water because I came here last time to fight over this. Michael, the reason why I'm also here, not just for me, is for everyone in that apartment complex that may have some issues and don't know how to address it. I think what we need to do is to go in there and still
investigation, not taking one tenant complaint as a problem. It needs to be a whole issue overall. There's a lot of older people that live there that planning on moving. One of the reason why we live in West Orange because we want to make it elderly friendly and I
it's becoming to a point where people want to move and there's no reason why they should move. When you own a property, you invest in the property and you make it comfortable. Refrigerator, microwave, stove that needs to be repaired. I just also want to make a
comment. I thank you for repairing the roads from Gregory to Mount Pleasant Avenue. I also want to um make a recommendation. When you drive up Mount Pleasant Avenue, the Godard School, there should be a sign to block cars from blocking that
entrance where people drop their children. A block sign. There's also enough room where they can put a sign to make right turns only. What happened is that when you get to the traffic, everybody is taking that whole middle space and preventing traffic from where
somebody want to make a right turn at Bob Pleasant Avenue and they're going straight. That should make an arrow right turn only and no blocking the entrance for people dropping off children. Please speak into the micro everybody here can hear. Yes, that's one thing I wanted to talk about and
maintaining the grounds of the apartment building. I talked about the garbage in front of the apartment building. Maybe somebody can consider having that removed because we talk about animals, beers, whoever considered that to happen to build trash can in front of apartment building, that should be removed because
it's causing a lot of bugs and beers. I heard I didn't even know there was beers in your time is up. Thank you. Could you please leave your name and phone number just on the right there uh so we can follow up with you, please? Right now,
Please. Hello. Christa Ross, 165 Franklin Avenue, West Orange. Hi. I emailed you yesterday. Thank you for responding. All right. So, good evening members of the council and to
those attending both in person and on Zoom. So, my name is Christa Ross and I've been a proud resident of West Orange, New Jersey for the past 10 years. I'm originally from Monontlair. I'm here tonight to voice a growing concern that's obviously affecting
others is the increasing lack of available street parking, specifically near Washington Elementary School, particularly on Franklin Avenue and William Street. I live at the corner of Franklin and
William, and I've seen firsthand how difficult it has become, especially during school hours. I know we're out of school. I know we're in a heat wave, but it's been a very a very hard time for these parents. Now that the school year has ended, I wanted to raise the issue
and issue in hopes that a solution can be explored before the fall. Parking challenges extend into the evenings and overnight it has become unbearable at times. I've witnessed young mothers with newborns force forced to park far from
their homes and walk long distances, often late at night. A nearby apartment building on Main Street, directly across the street from Washington Elementary, appears to have limited parking for its tenants. As a result, many of those tenants are parking on William Street,
pushing long-term residents out of nearby spaces. Adding to the problem is that many homeowners with private driveways are not using them, choosing instead to leave their vehicles on the street, specifically overnight.
This further reduces the limited parking available for those who do not have off- streetet options. I understand that many homes in West Orange have now been converted into multif family properties, which is great, which naturally increases the number of vehicles per
household, but this also requires better communication among those living in the same home. Residents need to coordinate who parks in the driveway to ensure the available spaces is actually being used. To help address these issues, I would suggest that the council might consider
implementing a paid overnight parking permit system like the neighboring towns. This could serve as a deterrent for residents and visitors who choose to just leave their car for days and don't move them. A paid permit system would help prioritize those who genuinely need
off- streetet parking, which is I, while encouraging others to use their driveways or designated spots. I want to take a pause because I know we all are paying taxes. So obviously I don't want to pay more for a overnight parking permit. But if that is the result of
this issue, I would like us to look at that. Over the years, what used to be a manageable inconvenience has become a daily source of stress and even a safety concern. My husband will come home at night and not have a parking spot. That
is ridiculous. He might have to park on the opposite side of the street with his work vehicle, which is also ridiculous. I care deeply about this community and know we all want to keep our neighborhood safe, accessible, and familyfriendly, especially being around
the elementary school. I respectfully ask the council to review this matter and explore sustainable, enforcable solutions that support both residents and visitors alike. Thank you for your time and also for your commitment to our community. Thank you, Miss Ross. Thank
you. I think I think the hero of 410 Maine has her hand up. Uh Mr. Panola, could you just defer to her for Thank you. Good evening. Evening. How are you? Good for you. Good evening. MK Adams
Park Drive South. Can you hear me? Because that microphone in the back is just terrible. I am here tonight for an update about the dynamic traffic and level G parking study that was summarized at the council meeting on April 22. I watched and rewatched the
presentation and reviewed the slide deck Mrs. McCormack and Giosa shared with the public. I could not find the full report. As a resident of the Park Tribe Loop, I am all too aware of the excruciating parking issues that exist in our section of town and along the
main street corridor. I own a 100-year-old house without a driveway. When I bought in 2013, many houses in my neighborhood weren't occupied or were in foreclosure. That still didn't guarantee easy street parking. Most households
have multiple vehicles and they usually park some of their cars on the street. Since then, indefinitely postco, street parking has progressively gotten more difficult and competitive. Annual permits from municipal lot number 12 on
Park Terrace, the closest MUN lot, sold out in minutes this year. Residents camped out in the lobby of the police building the night before permits went on sale. The last permit for lot number 12 went to a resident who arrived at
6:20 a.m. Permits went on sale at 9. I got there just before 8. In the past, permits were available at least until the afternoon of the first day or even a few days later. Securing street parking is intense. Households with driveways
commonly act like a tag team to grab a spot on the street. One car holds a spot until their family member arrives home to swap out. The first car then parks in their driveway. Most spots on the loop are taken well before 5:00 p.m. If you've never experienced the frustration
of regularly finding parking, you have no idea how serious an impact it has on the quality of your life. Errands have to be scheduled. You can't run out to grab something without considering that you may not be able to park when you get back. Invited to a dinner or a show? Ah,
what time will you be back? And how from your how far from your house will you need to park? Do you feel safe doing that? Holiday weekends, a day trip means parking will be impossible when you get home. All of this is stressful. During the planning board hearings for 410
Maine last year, countless residents spoke about the quality of life and safety issues that are impacted by parking. For years, my neighbors and I have suggested, requested, pleaded with administrations for a resident permit system. We were finally encouraged last
December when the mayor said aloud that a permit system would likely happen. Slide eight of April's summary presentation recommends permit restrictions for our neighborhood. I realize the council has a heaping plate these days, but what's the status of the
parking plan? When is the next meeting to discuss the parking study? When will you start prioritizing the report's recommendations and begin implementing them? Please, let's get this done before I need to move out of West Orange because
I can't afford my taxes, which may be soon. On that note, hats off to the staff members of the tax assessor's office who have been managing the confusion and panic of many residents, including me, because of our new tax burdens. It would
have been very helpful if resolution 15425 was passed before Munex posted Q3 bills. Lastly, I'd like to publicly thank Asthmared Gabber Michael for her years of dignified and responsive service to our community. She is class. I wish her
a full recovery and a return to office sooner than later. As the council considers her replacement, I strongly urge you to select Bill Rutherford. Like as Morett clearly loves West Orange. While a member of the council, Bill
evolved into an excellent representative for West Orange residents. He listens, he responds, he's creative, and he collaborates. He is a perfect choice to return to council and fill as seat. Thank you. I also want to thank Zbeth,
the downtown alliance, and councilwoman Castelino for giving insight to the parking consultants. And may I suggest a numbered card system for public comment like take a number like for the deli right might help. Thank you. Thank you
Miss Adams. Mr. Penelo think you should be next. Who else wants to speak tonight? Please raise your hand so I can recognize you. I see one hand there. What is there another hand here? There's a hand in the back. Councilman Rutherford. I can see uh I can't see who
it is uh standing at the very last row with a hand up with a white shirt and then there's somebody in front of you uh next please and if you want to move down closer to the front there's room please Mr. Follow please go.
Yes. Uh Joseph Panulo live in Essex Fells within the 200 foot notice area of uh the West Essex Highlands proposed project and the president of weare may be successor to Paul Tractenberg's
257year fight. Allow me just before I roll into just to finish part of a statement that Paul would like to have entered into the record. And it was important to note that uh we're on
planning board meeting number 14 coming up next June 30th, Monday. One was yesterday, number 13. And in all these hearings so far, scores, not hundreds of members of the public have spoken out against this project. Not one single
member of the public in any of the surrounding towns or in West Orange has spoken in favor of this project, the municipalities of Verona, Caldwell, U West Orange on the record and the Essex County Environmental Commission have all
spoken up and resolved to oppose this project and suggest its preservation. Last night, member of the Essex County Environmental Commission came into this room to present that for this record and the planning board hearings was denied. I don't know why. We have questions
about how that record is going to be completed before the hearings are over, but that's not what I'm here to talk about today. The poll discussed the process and the things that were going on during 2020, April 6th and 14th, when the
settlement agreement was approved between West Essex Highlands, the Township of West Orange, and the condo association in item throughout the balance of that year. I'm here to talk about what happened before that. So, so we know in 2017 a court-ordered settlement mount of
court was entered and on May 6th developer attorney wrote to the township and told you that by relying on the subject property in connection with the settlement of the declaratory judgment litigation, West
Orange took the formal position the subject property is available, approvable, developable, and suitable for the proposed inclusionary multi family development citing NJAC 597-3.13A. Remind the developers attorney that West Orange is not the only one that relied
on those representations. The Mount Laurel court and fair share housing council did the same. The problem with those reliances with with facts that were both known to this town attorney at the time and the developers attorney who intervened and
is a beneficiary in this matter for these 100 units and 500 units of 496 of density that could never have been approved prior to this is the definition of available, approvable, developable and suitable. This project in order to be compliant and meet the standard to be
eligible for an affordable housing location had to meet all four of those criteria. The fact is it meant none. A better fact is the fact that the developers attorney who intervened and the township attorney in this town knew those facts to be true and did not disclose them to the court nor to fair
share housing. So real quick, and I could do this a lot longer than the two minutes left. This site as an available site means it is free of encumbrances. That was not a true statement at the time and it was known to both parties. It was not known
to the court in a fair share. This site was encumbered by prior settlement agreements with the original weare in 2004 with a series of Essex Fellow's homeowners who brought an action in Essex County Law Division ESXL2881-04. That settlement that litigation was
settled in December of 2005. The town attorney is is signed the stipulation of dismissal. The developer intervened in that action. They both know what happened. Those are private property owners entering into voluntary settlement agreements with we care and with SXL's homeowners that the town
ordinance cannot aggregate but that wasn't disclosed further in 1980. So this developer has been developing most three sides of this mountain since the late 70s in 1980 in order to develop in Verona and West Orange high tourist
states. The Verona Planning Board granted a resolution and issued a pervision to build homes in both sides, but Howell Drive, two lots that are owned by the developer are single family zoned in perpetuity with a deed restriction that was not disclosed that
will not allow the emergency access route outside that site. And that's not disclosed. We have a copy of that resolution from 1980. There's referred to what in 1983 that would have made this not only uh not not available but unapprovable because approvable in this
case means it would be consistent with rules and regulations of agencies with jurisdiction over that site. Well, in terms of the municipality, they suspended every ordinance in this township in order to engineer something that was impossible. Time is up. It was not developable and it was not suitable. It's not developable because it has no
water and sewer at a minimum under the definition. Those plans were not submitted. Those entrance facilities do not exist. There's a sewer line that goes into Verona across the mountain that must be crossed. It's not there and it's not suitable because of compatible land uses and environmental. Mr. Beno, I
have to be You may sir. Yes. Meet the fiveminute requirement, please. Thank you. I urge this council to find out more about what's going on here because the point is we don't belong here. This group in 2017 should never have been entered. We wouldn't be here fighting in 2025. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank
you. I think the next person that I identified was Miss Bennett. If you're ready to speak, I thought you raised your hand. And then there's a there's a gentleman in the very back row with the white shirt. He keeps raising hand. You're next. And then there was somebody in
front of you that raised a hand, but I can't see from here. That should be the next speaker, please. I think that's you. Unless there's someone in closer to the person in the very back row. Yes. Uh Miss Bennett, I just uh before you start speaking, I apologize. I just
wanted to again thank you for bringing forward some information uh about a town employee uh a few days ago and greatly appreciate you bringing it to the attention of authorities. I would ask if you want to discuss this tonight that
you not name the person uh in in an open uh forum like this as an employee just in respect to the uh fact that they're they are innocent until proven guilty and uh just want to not bring that up during the meeting. Please,
council president, thank you. I know better than that, but I I appreciate the caution. Michaela Bennett, Old Indian Road. So, um, I'd like to start, uh, my public comment, um, pertaining to resolution 162-25.
I don't know um if the council plans to uh I don't know if the council plans to move forward with that resolution or not, but I would urge you um to uh not consider renewing Miss McGovern's
contract. Um for two reasons. Uh several more, but two reasons that I'll highlight tonight. Um, the first the Essex County Country Club application that was before the planning board that I objected to spent tens of thousands of
dollars addressing um was unlawful on its face when the applicant made the application. Several people in the room served voted in favor of that application, but it is it is unlawful everywhere in the state
of New Jersey to drive with an open container, even on private property. So, a golf cart pulling up to a halfway house, a comfort station, a bar, essentially picking up an alcoholic
beverage that's open and then pushing off down along the course is unlawful. that should never have been considered by the planning board because it should never have been um it it's it's unlawful
and you need counsel that understands the law to guide competently the planning board because that was allowed to proceed. every neighbor. It was unanimous. All of
us opposed the application and um had a very difficult time making sure that our positions and considerations were included in the record. Um had a difficult time being promoted to panelists.
Um, based on guidance and advice of council, you'll be happy to know that the wetlands that Essex County Country Club had completely decimated right in our right behind our fence, thanks to the DP and um the complaints
that we filed with the D and their investigation is now recovering. Um, in any event, for that reason and uh for a more recent reason,
Miss McGovern really is not suitable to guide that board. Um recently I um came to understand that Councilwoman Scarpa, who is on the planning board, um is
injured and disabled and um like tonight um maintains her obligations and her duties remotely, but has not been permitted in multiple applications to be able to appear in her full capacity with accommodations,
reasonable accommodations. ations on the planning board. I've written multiple times to the planning board and to the attorney. I've not received a response. Every attorney who's in the room knows that when an attorney communicates with another attorney, they're entitled to a response.
Miss Scarpa, Councilwoman Scarpa, being excluded from meaningfully participating in the planning board like every other member is improper. It's contrary to the ADA and it should be rectified.
All right. Um so I would urge this council to not approve Miss McGovern's contract ever. Um the only other item that I wanted to bring up with the minute that I have
left is the item that you referenced um before I started speaking. So, I did present uh to the council and to this administration evidence that a um employee of this township who makes over $178,000
annually has a full-time job um that conflicts it would appear conflicts um or I don't know if it's a full-time job. So, let me retract that. Has a job as a golf operations manager at Rock Spring Golf
Club. who I personally observed on multiple occasions working during working hours dur 9 to5 Monday through Friday and took evidence of that and presented that to the administration rather than the administration responding to any of the
emails that I've sent in regards to the information that I was um requesting as a private citizen. the administration responded to um the citizen budget advisory board chair
suggesting that any requests of board members go through the chair. I'm I do not relinquish my rights as a citizen of this township and I am entitled to ask the township business administrator for information.
Now, I understand that the employee manual was provided to the council. I asked for a copy. I was told I would get a copy. I've done everything, Mr. Moraldo, that you asked me to do that night, and professional courtesy would dictate that you should provide a copy
of that information. Yes. You know, I've I've also um submitted a complaint to the proper authorities about this, frankly, because I do not trust that you will do the right thing. Thank Thank you, Miss Bennett. Is there anyone else who'd like to speak
tonight? I thought I had identified you, Councilman, as the next speaker, and then there was another speaker over here who stood up and I think you're the other. Is there anyone else who wants to speak? Okay, please go ahead. Hi. Uh, my name
is Lux and A10 from 34 South Valley Road, known as South Valley Barbecue and Lounge. Um, I wasn't going to say anything, but it seems like there's a parking issue in West Orange, and we don't want to be a problem, and it seems
like we're about to be a problem. Uh, we had overflow parking on Wheatland Avenue, and it has become permitted parking, but no one parks there. There's about 30
spaces, 27 spaces are not used. Most of the um residents there have parking lots and I heard you guys have a budget issue. I actually have one. Let me propose this. We're willing to
pay for parking up there. Also, you have a lot that's owned by the township 10 union which is two doors down from us. We're willing to purchase it for extra parking. We don't want to be that guy where our patrons are parking where the
young lady comes from work and she can't find parking. So that's what I'm proposing. Hey sir, yes. Before you go, could you just write down your name and either phone number or email address so we can get in touch with you, please? Have you spoken with anybody from the township?
No, we did send a letter. That letter? No. Okay. I do not. I guess Councilman, I think you're next, please. Thank you, Joe.
Yes. Yes. Couldn't hear him. Okay. Please go ahead. Good evening, council. Uh, all those joining virtually in person. Bill Leatherford, uh, 800 Place, West Orange. Um, came tonight to, uh, show my admiration,
uh, and deep sadness, uh, disappointment that Councilwoman Gber will no longer be serving. I certainly do understand, uh, her reasoning and wish her well and support her in making that decision. Um, but I do count it as a loss uh, for
the town. Uh, so I do want to put on the record how um she has served with uh distinction and has done a great job at trying to make sure we have good government in West Orange. Um, and that's really the only reason why I came here tonight. But then after hearing uh
some of the commentary um I just some of the stuff just seems to be, you know, played over and over and over again. So, uh, I would like to know, uh, can anyone tell us how much
have already spent on the library? Um, I just want to know how much of taxpayer money has actually gone to create the library uh, at Executive Drive. Um, and anyone can provide that
information and everyone in the leadership video has my email address. So, please let me know how much we have actually spent to date. Um, I saw on the slide there's another 2.2 to 2.3 million uh that is being requested. Um, and when
you add up all of those things together, I think it was $4 million. Um, I find that interesting. Um, that project continues to get more and more costly, making those of us who challenged it look like we were right for challenging
it up front. Um the issue with the parking at the library, you know, we've been hearing this concern and complaint from residents for quite some time. I don't understand why we don't just reallocate some of the spaces that the other tenant is using allow certainly
for handicapped or uh seniors to park without having to walk up that steep hill. Um, and the bigger the bigger point though is why weren't these issues addressed considered during the planning phase? I mean, why does it seem like we are constantly fixing problems which are
characterized as things that we couldn't have predicted instead of taking our time and getting it right during the planning phase? One of the things that stood out to me the most was a change order requesting outlets in the library so people could
charge their devices. We know people are going to bring tablets and iPads and laptops to the library or a water fountain uh near the uh entrance. Um and I do understand things evolve. The mayor
said, you know, things do evolve over the course of time. Um, but there are some of these issues that we find ourselves dealing with that could be dealt with upfront if we took proper time. Um, and the last thing I'll say, I know we have two minutes left.
I'm hoping to get done before uh the clerk has to alert me with regard to things evolving this community space that is supposed to be in the city building. When the project was originally proposed, uh it was stated
that there would be a satellite library there. Um I've said in this chamber multiple times, we need to stop telling people that because we know it's not true. And I was ridiculed and criticized for saying that. Uh and it is in fact
not true. Um and now we hear that you know because there you know there was this real intent to make this space uh a community space and now for some reason we can't despite our best efforts. It just seems that this is the same story
we've heard before. It appears that the administration has continued the practice from the administration telling the public something that they'd like to hear and approved and then changing it after it is approved. Um I I think that
the residents of West Orange is over than that. And thing I'll say is uh I understand that there is some consideration for not filling the um uh council Michael's seat with an appointment. Do want to remind us that
there will be an election this fall. Um so the voters in West Orange will have an opportunity to the town should The work of the council has to go on every single vote between
effective vacancy and we have an obligation especially with regard to the budget and if you do not fill that vacancy you will only have four people a super majority to increase or decrease
anything in the budget that's just one issue it does need to be filled I am not seeking that appointment. I want to thank you guys for suggesting me, but you guys really do need to put someone else in that seat so that the business can be done. Thank you. Thank you.
Please come up. I don't know your name so I can't call you. Yes, please come up. Is there anyone else who wants to speak tonight at public comment? Please raise your hand. You will be the next speaker. Yes. Good evening board. Good evening, West Orange residents. My name is uh Jose Pedes. I've been a resident
of West Orange for almost uh 35 years also by family. Can you spell your last name? It's Paredes. P A R E D E S. First name Jose J O S E D. And your address? 443 Main Street in West Orange, second
floor. Thank you. Thank you. So, this is actually supporting the ordinance of the noise complaint for the two different bars. Uh, Javelin Park, I believe it's called, and then the other one is in Oku. It's for all the bars. Oh, okay. Yeah. All right. So, uh, I also have a
couple of complaints, especially for the one in Oku, you know, since I live right next to it. Uh, there were occasions that, uh, I had some people on the public leaving empty bottles and glasses
right by my door. And there was even an occasion where one of my neighbors, she mentioned that she came out late to throw the trash, you know, and there is a little alley where she say she saw some people also
having intercourse and stuff like that. And then also the smoking with cannabis too constantly. and javeling, you know, even though I live behind it, you know, the noise and the vibration is just loud
in certain times, you know, and sometimes also with the parking uh fights, I have witnessed fights also, you know, and it's just getting way way out of hand, you know, and I really
would like that to stop, you know, because I reside with my mom. My mom is actually a senior citizen and then also my son who's has anxiety and uh he's uh how do you call that? He has social
anxiety and uh ADHD. So sometimes he will wake up and start pacing and stuff like that and that's that's mainly yeah right. So thank you. Thank you. Thank you Mr. Parades.
Is there anyone else here who would like to speak? Please come up. Is there anyone else who would like to speak? Hi. Could you just could you just pull down the uh so there so we can get to Thank you. Uh my name is Brenda Munos. I
reside in 98 Harrison Avenue. Uh I am here tonight to speak as it was orange resident who has been directly and repeatedly affected by the noise disruption and outright neglect caused by the just one but not just one bar actually is by other businesses in West
Orange that are allowed to disrupt to start peace sorry peaceful neighborhoods without consequences. So, let's be clear. This is not just one place. It's about a pattern that will never be tolerated in other areas in
West Orange. Uh we live in a mixed neighborhood, families, children, people who work early mornings, yet these businesses operate like during nightclub sun. loud patrons, outdoor p patios as a dis as a
disco text and music that has shaken our walls late into the night and during the day also. It has taken a toll in our mental health, our sleep and our trust in local leadership. What hurts the most is the silence from this administration.
At the last administration meeting, someone actually said that there were no complaints. And yet the mayor who has seen me in her office crying, showing proof after proof, sharing countless creating complaints and evidence sat there and said nothing. That silence
spoke louder than any DJ speaker has ever has. It has it was like a betrayal to every single family that live here near the bars, near these businesses. Now, Miss Tammy Williams promotes herself as a mental health advocate. But
how do you support the mental health of a community while defending businesses that do the exact opposite? Noise, stress, fights, late night disruption. This is what we live with. Is a vocacy
just for certain people? So let's let's talk through the only thing that changed recently is that these businesses know that the ordinance is being considered. So they're playing quiet for now. But the minute this is
overturned or weakened, they'll be back at it. And frankly, we're tired of the race car being thrown. Everyone is held accountable, is being weaponized. Because we want to talk about discrimination. Let's talk about how
Hispanic families like mine or his or my neighbors who live in the back. There's a woman who has Alzheimer. There's another man who works overnight to pay for his new home. So, how is this possible? And no one say to war when we've been fighting. So, we've been
following rules, gone through the right channels, and being patient. So don't flip this narrative when we ask for the same peace others have already given. So let's be honest, this is not about shutting down anyone's businesses. This
bar is still open. They're still selling food, selling drinks, is still making money. The only difference is that they're allowed to operate they are not allowed they're not allowed to operate as a fullblown club in the residential
area. And that that's how it should have been from the beginning. We all support small businesses, but we support the right kind. The kind that respect their neighbors. The kind that uplaves a town instead of divided. The kind that don't rely on politics,
laborism or guilt to bypass accountability. So to this council, the administration in this measure, the people have spoken. Maybe not all of them have showed up. Maybe many are too tired or discouraged, but I showed up
over and over again. I brought proof. I brought voices. I brought truth. So the admin So to the administration and especially to the mayor, now is your turn to decide. Are you here to protect businesses who who break your residents peace at any cost or are you finally
going to protect these families who live here? Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Miss Munosz. Is there anyone else who wants to speak tonight at public comment? Seeing none, no hands raised, uh, I'm going to close public comment and open
up responses to, uh, my colleagues. I believe that Councilwoman Scarpa uh, should probably lead off with her responses. Councilwoman. Okay. Thank you very much. Um, let's
start at the beginning. Um, Moren and Florence, I'm so sorry you have to continue to come here. I don't know what is happening there at Crestridge Apartments. I know both Councilwoman Ruden and I have spoken to you so many
times and she was doing a great job following up. Our health department does need to get more involved and I'm going to ask the administration to do whatever they need to do. Um, and I'm glad that you've gotten some relief
with uh some other various entities who can maybe help you. Uh, but we will follow up with you. Sheila Lefowitz, thank you as always for your thoughtful um
responses and interests in our community. Um I have to a I have to agree with you that um it is difficult for many including seniors to get to
public comment and I do hope it's soon that we will be able to hear from everyone on Zoom. You're not the only one who has made that request. Uh in terms of the gas powered blowers, um I think you know that over a year ago
I suggested that it is a matter of fundamental fairness to give all of our residents a voice. I really realized this when I did my survey on the garbage contract and heard from so many residents and said they said, "Thank you
for finally giving us a voice." Residents like yourself are caring for elderly parents, for children. They can't get to our council meetings, but they still deserve a voice. And I would like to ask the administration and my
council colleagues to move towards putting this on as a referendum for November as soon as possible. I think that's the right way to approach this. Um, the gas powered blowers I I think is something that everyone's concerned
about. I've as far as a fireworks, I agree with you. I do feel um very sad and many of our residents have said the same to me. You know, why do we have to go to Livingston to see
fireworks? We pay a lot of taxes. And I think there are many who feel the way you do and miss the fireworks that we've always enjoyed. And perhaps I can um ask our administration to talk a little bit more about that in terms of whether we
might be able to move forward in the future on that. Um Mr. Trackenberg and Mr. Canulo, I want to thank you for continuing to advocate for uh all of us and
particularly your neighbors. Uh I, as you know, many of the residents agree with you. I've heard from so many of them. As a planning board member, of course, I cannot comment, but your
engagement and your commentary is so important to all of us. for all of those who came to talk about the permit parking. Um Sue and uh MK Adams and Christa, Christa, um I did
respond to your email and asked to your phone number because I would like to talk to you about this in more detail. As you know, I am a member of the Washington school community. I am a speech pathologist there and everything
that goes on in your community is of great concern to me. Um so I do hope you will send me a phone number or reach out to me and talk to me about this in person. I agree with all of you that the paid permit parking is a solution that
many of us have all uh thought was appropriate even before the parking um research was conducted. So, I'm going to ask our administration how fast we could move towards that piece of it. We need
to prioritize it. Even if we are not ready to do the full parking um project, I think the uh permit parking for our residents should be a priority and be uh done immediately. Um Bill Rutherford, it was wonderful to
hear from you again. Uh, you know, you and I had always had similar sentiments about the library and I agree with all of your comments. Thank you so much. Um,
our friend from the South uh Valley Barbecue, I'm sorry I didn't get your name, but um I think it's wonderful that you're willing to step up and help us solve this problem. And hopefully we could get together with the administration and see what we can do about all these parking issues.
Brenda, uh, Jose, I want to thank you two for continuing to come here for over a year. I have been at the pool since last summer. It's
been a full year that I have been listening to you and your neighbors while I'm in the pool about the problems in your neighborhood where you cannot sleep. Jose cannabis intercourse fights. I've even heard of defecation
in the area. It it really this is a pattern of behavior that I'm going to ask our administration to discuss with the police chief and really take a serious look at it. It is unconscionable that anyone who pays the taxes in our
town that you do have to deal with this on a daily basis. And it you know it brings me to the planning board issue. Um you know I am a planning board member and um the chair
did say he had not heard any complaints and as you know uh I have been convolesing and have not been able to speak or vote at the planning board. So, I've actually been denied the
opportunity to address this problem for you as your planning board representative and I hope that we are going to remedy this in the very near future. Which brings me to Michaela Bennett. Thank you for your advocacy
uh for bringing this to our attention. I was planning to pull 16225 and ask to table it until this situation with the planning board and my participation is resolved. Many residents have asked me about it, why
I'm not commenting, why I'm not voting, and I appreciate all their wellw wishes also for a speedy recovery. Their love and support has been very, very encouraging. So, what I'm going to do is I did have a statement. I was going to read at that time, but I think it's more
appropriate that I read it now. I did send a letter to Mrs. McG to Miss McGovern, and I wrote, I write in my capacity as the West Orange Town Council's appointed council member, representative, to the West Orange Planning Board. I request written
documentation supporting the position of the planning board and you, its appointed attorney, to refuse to allow me to participate fully in multiple planning board meetings, most recently yesterday, June 23rd, 2025.
the proceedings. The planning board has refused to allow me to comment and ask questions during multiple proceedings since my injury in April. As you know, I am conilelesing from a recent fall at my job and have certified that I am up to
date with all hearings and documentation of the planning board for multiple meetings. As you also know, I have fully participated in multiple town council meetings, in budget workshops via zoom during my convolescence, commenting, ask
asking questions, and most importantly, voting as I would do if I was present at gatherings. I have received nothing in writing from you or the planning board chair Bag Off providing a legal basis justifying my irregular treatment. I'm
attaching the emails to this thread which shows what has been communicated with me so far. I therefore request that you provide your legal determination and analysis as to why a bedrock foundation of the state's municipal landlaw that
properly seated members of the planning board enjoy equally the rights and responsibilities of the position in particular voting. It's is not being followed by the West Orange Planning Board. I also ask that you provide your legal determination and an analysis
justifying the planning board's apparent violation of federal and state laws providing for the accommodation of injured, disabled, or handicapped persons wherever possible. In particular, this potentially discriminatory treat discriminatory
treatment is so easily remedied by proven reliable and secure technology that's currently accommodating me and my condition at the council gatherings. I also ask you to confirm that the planning board has held meetings as
recently as during the COVID period in which all members conducted their duties via Zoom. I would hope that we can move to fix this problem as quickly as possible without having to resort to legal representation and action. Thank you in advance for your speedy response
to my request of this email and I also appreciate you confirming receipt of this email as soon as possible. So, I just thought it was more appropriate given all of the comments that I read this to you at at this time and you can put it in the proper context.
And with that, I'll let you move along. Thank you, Councilwoman. Great email. Please advise us as soon as you hear back from Ms. McGovern. Thank you. I I will
hold on just a second. Excuse me. Oh, Madame Clerk just reminded me that today is your birthday. So, it is. I wanted to wish you happy birthday. And I'm sure most if not all of West Orange joins me
also in wishing you well today. Thank you. There's no place I'd rather be. I said that to the clerk today that it is very rewarding serving the residents of West Orange. I and I did uh actually celebrate the last weekend.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Counciloman Ruden, happy birthday. Thank you. And Councilwoman Scarpa. Um there were so many so many important and great speakers tonight. Um just going to try and bunch things together in terms of the requests from the many people who
spoke about parking issues and parking problems. Thank you all for coming down. Um really good question MK in terms of what's going on with the dynamic traffic study. Uh we were presented it and then it sort of walked away. So, I would like
to ask the administration to schedule a meeting with the public, with the council, have it be an open public meeting. We want to hear more of the concerns. We want to address specific areas and we want to take action. Um, I don't know if there's
anything that can be done immediately by the administration to issue permits so that this can start while the um evaluation is going on. But I would like to suggest that um this um suggestion
about um parking permits be instituted right away and I'd like to get response response on that. Um uh Mr. Canula and uh Mr. Tractenburgg on
West Essex Highland. Um what was most interesting to hear is how this should never have come to the planning board. Um this entire application we are now 14 almost 14
meetings deep in this application that should never have been heard. And what I heard referenced is that the developer was working with our own township attorney in not disclosing information that should have been made public, which
had it been made public, this would not be before us. We would not be wasting taxpayer time, money, the all the effort that your organization has has um brought to the public and has to be so
active on this. And it really just is another example of some of the bad decisions that have been made behind the scenes um by some leadership in this in this township. Um
to the people who came out and spoke about noise, um Brenda and Jose, um the admin administration may not be listening to you, but we really are. And we are moving forward with two ordinances that will help address the
noise and to to um bring quality of life to the residents. We're living so close to um commercial businesses. It is not fair what you endure. Um I know what heartache each of you have had. Um I'm
really glad Jose I'm Yeah, Jose um that you came out and described what's going on. Some of these complaints should go straight to the health department. Um but tonight we should be passing on first reading
again. um an and an an ordinance which will prohibit outdoor amplification in cafes and that I know already has made a difference to um people um not having
not having to deal with the noise the outdoor vibrations and noise um and the amplification there you shouldn't be living with um DJs in your backyard with um karaoke in your backyard. There were many people
who came to this council and spoke loud and clear against popup parties. Well, you have a popup party in your in your backyard every single night and that's not fair. And we're going to do something about that. And thank you so
much for being brave, for coming out, for really even calling out that this is not a racial issue. This is this is simply an issue about noise and doing the right thing to improve the quality of life for all of our residents while
not trying to hurt any any business in town. Um, as far as um some of the comments that were brought by, um, Miss Bennett, um, it is really
pretty astounding that that Miss Scarpa and Miss Scarpa, uh, um, Councilwoman Scarpa also raised the same thing that she's being excluded from attending um, from speaking at at a planning board meeting. We do it here. You all can see
that Miss uh that Councilwoman Scarpa can attend and can be brought in as a panelist and there's no reason why that can't be done at a planning board meeting. And I'd like to question whether or not those planning board meetings are even legal. That just took
place because they they excluded one of the members. And that seems like a very targeted exclusion. Um, Miss Bennett, I also think that you're completely right about mentioning that your remarks that you made in terms of bringing
information to this administration about a township employee holding two full-time roles, one for the township and one for a co a private co um company operating a town-owned facility were made as a private citizen, not in your
role as a member. member of the budget advisory committee. Um the administration forwarded that communication to the chair of the budget advisory committee and then misrepresented
that all communication for this board should be through that chair. Um that is a serious infringement on Miss Bennett's rights. Um, I'd like to hear from the administration on how you plan to respect the board procedures and also
respect the rights of a private citizen um, moving forward. The concern about um, oh, thank you also for um, Miss Robinson for coming out again. You know, I'm going to be on the phone tomorrow and also for Miss Smith.
I will also, but I also really I'm also on the rent leveling board and I appreciate that you brought the issue to the rent leveling board and um let's try and make things better for for Crest Ridge management. You all are important um members of our community and you
deserve to live live a good life in Crestridge. Um, in terms of the council vacancy, I would like to speak um, very briefly about the responsibility that we currently face. With the recent
resignation of our council colleague, we have a seat open and the law gives us until July 12th to fill that. That's not just a deadline, it's our duty to ensure full representation for the people of West Orange. Some colleagues have
suggested that leaving the seat vacant to avoid influencing the November election is a good idea, but withholding representation isn't neutrality, it's neglect. Our residents elected five council
members, not four. Leaving the seat empty would mean months of incomplete governance where two to two votes fail, bonding measures stall, and mayoral vetos, overrides become impossible. That's not effective government. That's
gridlock. This is not about politics. It's about principle. The law is clear. Our duty is clear. We must fill this seat. I urge my colleagues to act and ensure that our council reflects the
voices of our community. Let's take a brief look to see if I have overlooked anybody. Oh um also just in terms of the parking issue, I want to thank um Mr. um Luxen for bringing us a
possible solution. That's really terrific and and we as a township really appreciate when residents can solve the problems for us that we can't can't always solve. Um, okay. I think I think I hit
everybody. Oh, I also wanted to thank um our public information officer for doing always a fantastic job, but in particular my two favorite issues for highlighting that we do have an animal shelter in town. Some of these animals,
including the dogs, have been there for two years, and we really need to find them home. So, please, everybody, if you're looking looking for a a pet, please look first. Shop local in West Orange. And also, thank you so much for
um pointing out that we do have a tree ordinance and that for every tree, dead or alive, in town that comes down, you do need a permit. Permission. Thank you. Councilman Ruden is you're done, right? Okay. Just didn't want to
step over you. I will try to be as brief as possible here. Thank you very much for the everybody commenting tonight. You're pointing out areas uh multiple areas where we need to work harder and we need to work faster and we need to deliver
better. And uh we heard you. I I think it's pretty clear we have parking issues uh not just in the neighborhoods where people spoke tonight, but literally all over all over town. Uh unfortunately, we have a very old town that developed a a
great deal uh even before cars were around. So there are many there are many town uh many uh residential units that do not have driveways and uh we have to work harder and better and more effectively to get to get parking here.
I want to just take this opportunity to ask Mr. Smaldo if now is a good time to just talk about where we are with uh the parking study and uh developing it. Uh maybe give people a better idea of of what we're going to be doing next. About an hour or if you want to do all your
comments tonight. No, no, no. Not an hour please. Okay. But but so very briefly please. So briefly um so we did receive the study um it was presented I think two meetings ago. Um one of the concerns we had is that we we are the as
the um administration or have to get funding which was one of the edicts that the council said let's not present any u capital while you know we're doing the operating budget which is but we're still looking forward to moving forward with some of the parking. Now, it's
going to take a lot of effort and a lot of work and that includes ordinances, purchasing u the parking permits. Uh I we'd have to work with our engineer in and identifying those areas and also with our police department so that we can issue the permits. If we're going to
go to a system that's recommended in the in the parking study, one of it would be a more electronic system, which is a capital item. Um there's there's the the oldfashioned sticker system that we have now, but that's you know we have to figure out what is the best way. So, this is one of these subjects that we
wanted to broach at the July meeting as far as capital um so we can have discussions about that prior to um with the council um offline and we can we can present that at the meeting if that's the choice of the council which it appears and and we're listening to the
public and we understand the main reason we did the the whole study itself is that there is an understanding that there is a challenge to parking. So, it wasn't a parking study for two or three streets. it was for the entire eastern half of the of the community. So um and
and include other areas also smaller areas up the hill um in the western half of the st town with smaller parking lot. So so it it's it's a it's a great undertaking and while the issues and in pocket areas are for each individual is
is challenging, we're trying to do something that's that's going to encompass the entire blow everywhere. So, so that's that's our that's as about as brief as I can get for it. That that's excellent. Thank you very much. Okay. I just want to follow up on uh one of the concerns that Mr. Smaldo
expressed which was capital and capital expenditures. We as a council along with the chief financial officer are working on a debt management plan that will address the debt crisis that we are in
right now. We have more than $160 million in in outstanding debt. We are paying nearly 12% of our budget for debt service. And that situation is actually
going to increase slightly over I think the next three or four years. And we have got to get this problem under control. So we're working on it. And what we have said as a council is that until we get a plan in place where we
know where we're going and we can afford it, we are not going to make any discretionary capital uh expenditures or plan for them until we get this problem under control. So I I appreciate Mr.
Swaldo acknowledging that we we have a pause on on any uh discretionary spending. uh but we certainly need to uh consider what we can do to improve uh the parking and and traffic flow situation uh in the town. Uh I also
wanted to ask since I was uh mentioning the CFO Mr. Datiniac, we had a question from uh Councilman Rutherford who asked it seems like a simple question. I'm not sure you have the data available to you right now uh about how much the free
library property uh has cost us since. So I I don't want to answer at the Dis and get the wrong answer, but I do have a note to email uh um former Councilman Rutherford because it's not just a library project. I think what he means also any other ordinances that have been
done for 10 Rooney and and probably some of the operating expenses that have gone along with that building for the last few years. So, we'll put that together and and get that out to the councilman and obviously the rest of the the council here. Great. And I and I know we've discussed this during the budget
workshops. I just didn't have the data at at my fingertips either. So, thank you for doing that. Council President, if I could just add to it. So, one of the big things is that we want to make sure that we and we I think we've identified at the budget hearings and just for the public's knowledge that it's not that it's the library. It's 10
Rooney Circle in which the library occupies a space. There was money that was allocated from the the state of New Jersey Department of Education to get the library in shape. But as part of that project, when we started realizing when when later on the project, there
were other components of the building itself that weren't really reflective of the library project. it was more or less there were some there was change orders and there's the acknowledging there was change orders with the library project itself but however the the building the
property um in itself has its challenges that are unrelated to the library because a lot of those questions that were that were in other parts of the building were kind of rectified in the library itself and um so there were some things that had to be challenged and there's still some issues that have to
be addressed for the the entire property so just want to make sure that the distinction because it's not it's not just the library that has challenges. We have you know we're trying to fix up the whole property itself. Yes. And I appreciate the multiple uh complaints about noise and disturbances uh uh from
commercial uh businesses that are right next or right on top of uh residential. And it's something, as Councilwoman Rudy pointed out, we're aware of and we are working uh uh to try to uh remediate or to actually eliminate if we possibly
can. So I appreciate uh uh those comments. I also appreciate the residents at Crestwood Apartments. Uh it's a private business, but we as uh the municipality have a health department that can provide help in in
uh in certain ways. So please your first step should be uh the health department and uh as as one of the speaker council president if I can interject that's really not just the health department it's the property maintenance property maintenance is is on a firstname basis with the management up there um there
are health department health issues but things such as um the water um leaking and things of that nature that's property maintenance the refrigerator is property maintenance so um and and I know that um one of our inspectors has a very good uh working relationship with
the management up there. Um so I I would kindly suggest that you contact our property maintenance division and they can go out there and take care of it too. Um and if it is something such as um you know vermin infestation then obviously then we could get the health department out there as well. Sounds
good. And then add to that uh the rent leveling board. You heard that there was some uh progress made uh with uh when uh they were reached out to the rent leveling board. So, those are the three areas that you should keep in mind. I I want to comment on that, too. The rent leveling board is not your place to call
in the sense of those kind of uh property maintenance issues. The person who staffs the rent leveling board does a great job. She understands the the concerns there and she probably made that call on your behalf. Um the rent leveling board deals with rent. That's their job is to deal with rent. It's not
property maintenance. So, I would suggest again, you know, property maintenance, health department, or whatever, wherever you want to go. But the the rent leveling board actually deals with the rent specifically with either apartments and the landlord and the tenant. So just so we can clarify for the public. But she that person is a
great asset to the office and she probably went above and beyond her her role that day to help to assist that day. So okay, I also wanted to comment uh on some of the back and forth between Miss Bennett and Councilwoman Ruden about the
Citizens Budget Advisory Board. As the primary author of that ordinance, I will acknowledge that it's only a few months old and everybody is getting used to this. But I will say the Citizens Budget Advisory Board has been a huge uh
asset in our uh budget discussion so far and we expect even more from them. I just want to just point out what the ordinance actually says. It says in section E, the board shall make all requests for information or materials following a majority vote of the members
present. B, have access to all financial and budget documents that it believes are needed to advise the council that are not otherwise subject to privacy or other non-disclosure limitations. The board shall make its request in writing to the council which will review the request and forward it to the business
administrator or his or her designate and the chief financial officer. So, there is a process in place. It's a new ordinance. It's a new process. Uh we'll just have to bear with us as we we get used to uh uh get used to get used to a new process. But I I just want to say
the Citizens Budget Advisory Board has been a a great asset to the budget process now and I expect uh they will be even uh more so uh in the future. We also have when's our next uh budget workshop? Is it Thursday? Thursday.
Thursday starting at five o'clock. Uh, so if anybody if you've heard that this is not as exciting as watching paint dry, that is not correct. Okay? There are some interesting stuff being talked about about how we're spending your money, how
we want to spend your money, and what we want to spend it on. So, if uh if you're addicted to the NBA, and now that's over, this might be something you might want to listen to a little bit uh going forward. Um, I also want to mention
about the affordable housing issue. Uh, not so much uh not so much about what was being discussed uh tonight, although it is vitally important, but more directly uh I just want to sort of talk about where we are with affordable
housing. We are now in the fourth round of affordable housing that this uh uh the that that is the law now. The law was signed back in March 2024 and uh we have a what everybody seems to consider a rather substantial quota of of
affordable housing that we need to provide in terms of our fourth round plan that is due June 30th. So just to touch on that we had a executive session in January where we talked about how we wanted to move forward. The mayor
brought to the council in April a uh request to hire an affordable housing planner. we turned down that that uh uh proposal and subsequently she has uh signed a different affordable housing
planner uh to a contract. And as part of that engagement letter for that contract is that uh the plan that is required by the state law to be submitted to the court by June 30th in a
couple of weeks. Uh this affordable planner says we are not going to meet that deadline. Now, the potential issue with not meeting the deadline is that it opens us up to what's known as builder's remedy, in which builders who want to build in your township say that they
will help us reach our affordable housing goals by asking for substantially increased density. And it's a real problem for municipalities uh because potentially uh because we have very little defenses in terms of
the protective ordinances that we have. um under a builder's remedy. So the engagement letter says that uh the planner expects to submit a plan in three to four months. And the issue right now is what's going to happen uh
with us if we miss the deadline and become more open or more subject to builder remedies. It's not clear whether that will actually happen because there seems to be a lot of municipalities that are going to miss the deadline. And so we're hoping that that doesn't uh uh
bode uh ill for us. And uh uh some of the council members have expressed a a uh a desire for the township to file for an extension of the deadline. Uh my last conversation with the new affordable
housing planner indicated that some requests for deadline extensions have been granted. So, we're uh we're hoping to hear back from the administration that they will file uh for the extension and uh meanwhile we are trying to move
forward on on putting the plan together. I I would like to comment on Please go ahead. Okay. Um the mayor has failed to submit the statemandated affordable housing plan in town. She in time. She has told us in
fact many times that it will not be delivered in in time. So, I'm I'm happy to hear that there may be a request for an extension, but I think that not committing to getting this plan in
by June 30th has put West Orange at extreme risk of builder developer uh of builder remedy, which could allow developers to bypass some of our zoning laws, most particularly the density requirement. This plan should have been
finalized last year. It should not have been given to us this year in April when she knew that we were not going to approve the planner that she had put before us. There was another planner who was also had had filed the RFQ who could
have come on the next day. Instead, that didn't happen. It waited until four weeks ago and then said, "Okay, we're going to hire another company and they will commit to not pro producing this in
time." This is directly the responsibility of the mayor and I think that a an extension should have been requested immediately. an investigation should should be into
why we did not request an extension immediately. And I think that the township attorney who is supposed to protect us from this type of exposure
should have known better and should have been advocating on behalf of the residents and not the developers so that we would not be this exposed. Thank you, Councilwoman. And uh last but
not least, I just want to try to give everybody an update on where we stand with the council vacancy. Uh as you all know, Councilwoman Gabber Michael resigned uh unexpectedly and under state law, we have we the remaining council members have 30 days from the date of
the resignation in order to determine essentially three things. We have to determine whether we want to fill the vacancy or whether we want to uh just move on to the November special election to fill that seat. That's one thing we have to decide. Then we have to decide
whether we want to fill the seat and then we have to decide who we want to fill the seat. We have an issue in that we have one council member who is on vacation and has been on vacation for a while. We have another one who will be
rolling off into vacation uh July 6th. Councilwoman, yes. So, we have a very compressed time in which to uh collaborate and determine what we want to do. And so, that's the uh the sort of
deadline that we are under. Uh in addition to this, we are asking for people who want to be considered for the spot to pro to send their resumes to the clerk, clerk@west orange.org. And I
believe the deadline is coming up. Is it the 25th? Tomorrow. Tomorrow at 4 p.m. So, uh hopefully you'll if if you don't know about this, you'll see this video before uh the deadline. Um, in addition to this, there
are going to be two elections to fill this seat in November. In the regular general election, there's going to be a special election to fill the seat for the remainder of the term, which is another year. So, that will be the election this November. Then, next
November, 2026, there will be another election, and this would be to fill the four-year, the regular four-year term. So, there's a lot of stuff going on and we're we're trying to keep up with it. Um,
I think I covered everything. Okay. So, hopefully that's that clears up any uh uh uncertainty or lack of clarity. Um, I would uh at this point I think we're finished unless Mr. Schmaldo or Mr. Dinac, do you have any comments? Okay.
Um, I I would like to take a fiveminut break. Uh this seems like a good time to do so. Right here be at 9:15 and we will get back at in five minutes. Five minutes 9:23.
Thank you. So let's go. I'm so sorry. I don't know. I didn't send it to you. I said I was Please don't vote to give mom.
Yeah. It's just unbelievable. What is that? You're right. You're right. Is there argument that we have to do it now? Please. Nobody wants to go to that building. They might want to tax it.
and make it out the best. So, what do you think about my response? right here. What do you mean? Welcome back, West Orange. Thank you for bearing with us. The council meeting was in short break. We are returning now to
the council meeting and uh councilman uh council president Kakoviac. Thank you, Mr. Fagan. We have a real treat for you tonight. those of you in the audience and on Zoom in that we are going to change around the
agenda to address several very important resolutions related to the uh ABC board. Uh and then we will return to the resolutions and ordinances that people are more familiar with. It's un it's
unusual to actually have uh the ABC portion of the meeting online or on Zoom. Uh but so we will see. But I I think it would be helpful for a lot of people who are here for the ABC hearings to get
them through and save their clients perhaps an hour or two or three um hourly fee. So Madame Clerk. Yes, sir. So can I have a motion to enter into the ABC hearing? So moved. Second. Thank
you. Uh, Councilwoman Hong, Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Koviaak, yes. Okay, the motion carries. We are in our ABC hearing. Great. Thank you. Okay. The
first matter on the agenda is resolution 767-25 hearing on renewal for the 202526 license term for Lulchce Bita um known as Los Palmeris Inc.
Mr. Williams, you need a seat. Um, Mr. Williams, can you go to the podium so we can Oh, this work now. Are you good with the podium and your client's sitting down? Is that okay? Yes, I'll just turn the podium. Okay.
Okay, good. Good evening everyone. Robert C. Williams appearing on behalf of Los Pamos, Inc. Uh you actually have two matters on. You have the uh first resolution 76725 and you also have the uh settlement
agreement at um let's see at the bottom of your um 776. Yeah, 776. So the first one is simply a renewal of the license with the special conditions which have been attached to the prior
years. My client's consent to the um reimposition of the existing conditions and we'd also like to after assuming that you do that address you on this global settlement that has been proposed by the division of ABC.
So, I would first ask for a resolution or move the resolution to renew their license with the special condition as proposed in 768-23. Thank you, Mr. Williams. I just want to get some advice to make sure that I do
things right uh when it comes to this uh lency. Mhm. Uh as you know, I have recused myself from uh some of the recent hearings that we've had and I want to make sure that if I've recused
myself from those hearings, whether that uh whether I should or can vote on this application is slightly different. It's a renewal of the license and not a a hearing uh an enforcement hearing. So, I just wanted to be sure that I do the
right thing so that I don't cause even more trouble. Okay. So, we have Miss Courtney Cook here this evening, uh, our ABC prosecutor, so she can certainly speak to that. Um, good evening everyone. So because
you have actually uh recused yourself from this matter, you are for purposes of a quorum um still allowed to abstain from voting so that we can still get the resolution passed uh in the event that the the board decides to. Okay. So it doesn't matter whether it's a license
renewal or an enforcement hearing. Correct. Well, if you feel that you have a conflict, it's it's completely up to you if you decide to recuse yourself because you have a conflict. Okay, then that's good. So, I can vote on each one of these and I can even uh um you can
abstain if you can. Yes. Need to be present to get a quir. Well, I I'm aware. I'm aware. I just want to be sure. So, thank you, Miss Cook. I appreciate it. Is there any discussion uh on the uh Wait, do we have a motion yet? No. Do
Let's have a motion to approve uh 76725. This is for Los Pomeis. Yes. Uh, do I hear a motion? Um, I would like to know what what the Oh, a motion. I would need a motion and a second. Right. I'll make a motion.
Okay. To approve and I will second. Okay. Okay. Now discussion questions, please. Um, there are a lot of penalties here. A lot. And the this is not on the
penalties. This is only to renew the license. Oh, yeah. They're two separate issues. That's a separate issue. This is simply the renewal 767-25. Oh, yeah. Okay. So, we got these the
updated uh documents earlier today. I don't know if you've had a chance to take a look at them. Uh but they were they are essentially a confirmation of what we were expecting. Okay. So if we approve the license
then we'll have the discussion on the settlement. That's correct. Okay. First you have to approve. There's a motion to approve. I didn't hear a second. Yeah, there was a second. I second it, Mr. Williams. I second it. Yes. Okay. Are we ready to vote? Uh, I think so. Councilwoman Scarpa, any
comment? Uh, no. I'm ready to vote. Okay, great. Okay. Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Kakoviaak, I abstain. Okay. The motion carries.
Okay. Now 770. I'm sorry. You're right. 776. Oh, okay. 776-25. Uh, resolution regarding alcohol beverage control boards adjudication of charges issued to Los Palmeris.
Once again, Robert C. Williams appearing on behalf of Los Pomeis. Uh, Courtney Cook, uh, appearing from Antonly Caner Rivera, uh, as ABC prosecutor on behalf of the township. I'd like to just go back and tell you why we're here tonight with the
settlement that's been proposed for you to review and hopefully endures tonight. Um, as you're aware, I've appeared here, I believe, on four occasions relative to various ABC charges that were brought against Laser.
Um, as a result of those hearings, there were some cases that were dismissed. Some were found guilty, others were found not guilty. Um the one of the guilty charges was um uh appealed to the division of ABC and they stayed the
order uh pending appeal. Approximately a month ago, maybe six weeks ago, I received a call from Sheena Rinka Kelly, who is the chief prosecutor or head of enforcement for the state division of alcoholic beverage control.
She indicated to me that she had been contacted um regarding the numerous violations in West Orange that have been pending, the amount of time that was being spent, the cost that was involved, and also to address the fact that the
state had brought a charge against Las Premier, which has been sitting in Trenton for about a year, for a noise violation. and she said, "Since we have a noise violation and you have all these charges, we took a look at everything and we wondered if you would be willing
to sit down with us and discuss maybe a global resolution." I said, "Of course." She said she intended to uh contact Miss Cook and meet with the uh township prosecutors to go over all the charges
that were still pending and would have to be resolved. Now, I know they spent several hours up in Livingston at their office going through that. I was not present. After they did that, they contacted me and asked if I would come to Livingston and meet with them. Uh the
state brought two attorneys. They brought um Miss Kelly, who's the head of enforcement, her assistant, uh Leslie Martin, uh and your prosecutor, Miss Cook, also attended. And we spent several hours going through each and every possibility.
What could happen? What would happen with the town if they had to prosecute these? What time would be spent on appeal? Because I don't know that you realize, but if you get convicted or charged and convicted in municipality, you have an automatic right to appeal
and you get a day hearing. Everything that happened here goes away and we start all over again. Right? So they said, "This will go on forever." So they said, "We'd like to look at the charges and give you our
recommendation." And they gave a recommendation. And that's in the settlement. This is not my position. And quite frankly, it was not necessarily Miss Cook. She she worked with them, but they came up with the settlement. They reviewed everything as
a basically as an independent agency and said here's what we think is fair to cons to take everything together and start a new and that's what we're asking you to approve. This is something that the the interesting thing is if it's not
approved and we try the cases here it goes back to the ABC on appeal. So the people that are recommending the settlement would then be reviewing what happened here. So, this would be a tremendous saving for the town and for my client.
They're proposing a 100 day suspension. It's a lot of days. They broke it down. You have to serve 30 days starting July 15th. You have to We're holding 20 days in obeyance. If you get convicted
uh within the next year of of serving a minor, you have to serve another 20 days. Or as an intoxicated person, minor or intox, excuse me, it went back and forth. You have to serve another 20. That's 50 days plus we're going to
charge you 50 more days of by way of fine. So the package is 100 days. Now, did I give in on behalf of my client? a little bit, but I also looked at the broad picture. This cleans the
slate. So tonight, this is what we're asking you to approve on behalf of the division. Not nec my client was ready to go forward, but when they contacted me, I thought this was a good resolution. It saves everybody a lot of time. The penalty is severe, but we're willing to
accept it. Now, let Miss Cook add what she'd like to. Well, Mr. Williams, thank you for um explaining the background and all of this and how we got here um so eloquently. Um, just so that you know,
uh, even prior to Miss Williams being brought and called in, I actually sat with, um, Asha, um, I mean, Sheena Kelly, which is the enforcement bureau chief, as well as the DAG, Leslie Martin. And we went through every single
one of the charges that you see before you, all of the proofs that the township has to date um, to be able to prosecute these charges. and they did meet separately and come back to us with this recommendation. Um, I actually do think and I support it. I believe it's in the
best interest of the township um long run. Obviously, we have charges dating back to 2021 and that gets everything convoluted. So, if we can put some parameters in place right now that everyone can agree to and then if we have any violations moving forward, I
believe that we have a stronger record to present to the state. And if you guys have any questions, um, we are both here to and happy to, u answer them. Yes, I have I have a question. Um, why was there a, um,
monetary payment instead of a 50-day sus suspension that was proposed by them, the 50 because quite frankly, um, although it wasn't brought to my attention, that's what they proposed. But I would not I
would not be able to accept a 100 day closing. Okay. And what is the monetary amount that we're talking about? That'll be determined by the state ABC. They have a formula. They take essentially what you would have made if you stayed open and
charge you. So they they work off your last federal income tax return. Uh you have to show them the purchases of alcohol, the sale of alcohol. Uh remember that they only govern alcohol, don't have anything to do with food. Um so they come up with a
pdeium. So whatever the pdium is, it'll be 50 times that and you have to pay it. And I did confirm that with the DAG uh earlier today. And so we don't have a actual price for you at this time because we don't know if this was actually going to get approved. So the
calculation hasn't been done yet. Remember the state gets the money unfortunately. Yes. So they don't look to make it any I mean they want the money. So the per day in comes out on the formula they use we have to pay it.
What will be the um day um suspension or an ordinance of one of our township um uh for violating one of our township ordinances.
Do you mean going forward? Yes. Whatever the board determines, the state won't determine it. You if something happens after this set, July 1st, you will charge the licency like you have in the past on a new ordinance violation and you will determine what it is. If it
happens within one year, it's a second offense. Yes. Correct. Okay. Um, can we add to this that going forward that the ABC board convenes after each and every summons?
That I can't answer that question. That's not for me. Yeah, I don't think that would be a condition for the settlement agreement, but that can definitely happen happening forward. Okay. As far as as long as the availability of the board allows. Okay. But will you
both agree to that? I I have to agree because if I'm charged, I have to respond. So, I don't have a choice. Okay. If you're still the attorney, if I'm still the attorney, but I mean that that's if you charge the Lency, they have X amount of days to
file an answer and if you schedule a hearing, they have to attend. So, the really the burden's on the town. Okay. The requirement that all security participate in training programs, wasn't that already a condition? That was a condition that we had on a prior
resolution that was still pending that didn't go into effect. So wisely they incorporated in this so that there's no question even though those charges are essentially going to be dismissed and rolled into this agreement, it's now in there again. So you were protected by
that. There's no date on when that training program has to be completed. Um there is no date but it has to be completed. Um we are getting recommendations from the state ABC um as far as the training program. So as soon
as that happens, which we're going to look into once hopefully this gets approved and be I mean it's going to be as soon as possible. Okay. I I meant the 30 days in the settlement agreement that we have 30 days for the historic part. But yeah, I honestly I don't want to put
a time in there because we're dealing with the state of New Jersey and they move very slowly sometime. Right. When you when when I'm referring to security, I was I was speaking about the security who are outside the establishment, right? And also the other issue is
training of our police officers, right? Can we can you give us any guidance in terms of what the time frame will be and who will be who will be administering those classes for our police? I don't have any guidance right now because I am working with um the enforcement bureau
chief on this matter. Um the issue of uh getting the police officers trained is separate and apart from the security guards. So I know that the uh enforcement bureau chief is working with the state police uh department in order
to come up with the training program. And I also don't want to mandate a specific time because if they hire another security guard, I mean, it's still they might be hired after a certain date. So, it's just to ensure that all of their security guards are
actually trained. I don't have any more questions, Councilwoman Scarpa. No questions for me. Thank you. No questions for me. I'm glad there's at least a 30-day uh Well, actually, I'm abstaining. I shouldn't even be
commenting. So, I need to retract that. It's okay. It's retracted. Forgotten. Never happened. So, I think we're ready for a vote. Okay. Is Is there a motion to approve 776-25? I make a motion to approve. Second. A
second. Okay. Can I make a statement? Oh, okay. I would just like to I I know that the the owners and operators are here. Um, we take this very very seriously and um,
you are smack in the middle of a residential multifamily development that has been turned on its head and I am requesting that you follow the ordinances of this town, that you quiet
down, that you do not allow underage drinking or overdrinking, and that you treat this community with the respect that you you would wish to be treated with. Thank you, Councilwoman. Okay. Uh,
Councilwoman Ruden, your vote. Your vote. Yes. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Koviaak, abstaining. Okay, the motion carries. On behalf of the lency, I thank you. And
you want me to sign out? Oh, yeah. Yes. Actually going to sign a document now. Told her I would sign it once it was approved. Do my word. Do we need a drum roll? You know, we just need the actual approval that the settlement agreement
says that we pass. Thank you all for our consideration and taking the time. Thank you for explaining it to us. I want to thank the state of New Jersey for coming in and spending all this time and your attorney well before I got involved and I put a
lot of time in on this. This is good. Hey, that's done. Thank you very much. Thank you, Madam Clerk. Okay. Thanks, Courtney. Okay. So, you want to take LA?
Is that yours as well? Yes. Oh, Val 768. Uh 768. Yeah, that's next. Uh 768-25 hearing on renewal for 202526 license term Lux123 LLC trading as South
Valley Barbecue. Mr. Williams. I will appear on that. Although I'm actually here on the transfer, but I know the license is here and he has consented to the special condition. So, we need the license renewed so that we can go into the next part of the agenda,
the persontoperson transfer. Conditions remain the same. Do we have a motion? I make a motion and I will second it. I'm so sorry. Okay. Okay. Um, so we've uh Councilwoman Ruden made the motion. I
second it. Okay. Let's call for a vote. So, yeah, we just want to need to see if there's any discussion. Any questions? Um, this is for the transfer. No, this is for the license renewals.
Okay. All right. Are we finished with the comment period? Can we move to a vote? I just want to know, are there any concerns from our attorney on this license renewal? No. Okay. Okay.
We've had no issues that I'm aware of. Madame Clerk. Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa. Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes. Council President Koviaak. Yes. Okay. The motion carries.
Uh let's see. Next is 770-25 hearing on renewal for 202526 license term 1920s Roadhouse, Inc. trading as Essex House, which is currently in inactive status.
I have a motion. I make a motion. Okay. I'll second. Is there any uh questions or comments? Do we have a Do we have a Are you representing them too, Mr. Williams? No. Yes. On the first in person transfer. No, no, no. Essex House. We're talking about we're going
down the line. Yeah. Okay. So, Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Kakoviaak, yes. Okay. The motion carries. 771-25
hearing on renewal for 2526 license term club 466. Is there a motion to approve? I make a motion to approve. Second. Thank you. Councilwoman Gruden. Yes. Councilwoman
Scarpa. Yes. Council President Koviaak. Yes. Okay. The motion carries. Uh 772-25 hearing on renewal for 202526 license term Uitos restaurant and bar. I
make a motion to approve. Thank you. Is there a second? Thank you. Is there anybody here representing? I don't believe so. Okay. Um Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Koviaak, yes. Okay. The motion
carries. 773-25. Resolution rescending in part ABC resolution number 765-25 re removing license number 072233- 060-00009 Wilshshire Hospitality Services 2 LLC
trading as Wilshshire Grand Hotel as a lency approved for renewal for the 2526 license term for failure to pay fees to the state uh ABC and West Orange. So, this is um this license was put on
resolution 765-25 um without them having paid the fees to the state and West Orange. There are two ABC licenses for Wilshshire. They were confused. They got confused. So, we put
this on. It should not have gone on. Um so now we have to just resend that one from the last resolution we approved. Um and they are on for uh renewal tonight but that's separate from this. Okay. Okay. Is there anybody representing? No
the licency. Okay. Um is there a motion to approve? I make a motion to approve. Thank you. Second. Councilwoman C. I'm sorry. Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes.
Council President Koviaak. Yes. Okay. The motion carries. 775. Resolution regarding alcohol beverage control boards adjudication of transfer of license applications concerning Jojo Restaurant Services LLC Township of West
Orange. Mr. Williams, this is yours, correct? That's mine application. Yes. Just want my clients to step forward. Stand right here. Good evening. Hello. Good evening. I'll introduce you. Okay. Um, Robert C. Williams appearing
on behalf of Jojo's Restaurant Services LLC. This is a persontoperson transfer. We've made an application to the your board. The transfer of the license, which is currently the uh South Valley Barbecue. Um, you just renew the liquor license,
Lux 123 LLC. We've made an application to transfer it to my clients. Uh the actual application is made by Jojo's Restaurant Services LLC. There are two members. I have Galani Jean Louise right
here and her uncle Jean Paul Dorset. Is that how you spell it? Dent. Did I pronounce it? Okay. Dorsen. Why are they here? They want to invest $1.2 million in West Orange. They want to buy the restaurant and operate it, upgrade
it, and hopefully have a very successful enterprise on Valley Road. That's why the application is here. You have received a report from the West Orange Police Department, which I'm assume that you have reviewed.
Uh we take issue with the report. We're here tonight to ex uh explain to you why there were certain answers that were made on the police form. And quite honestly, I strongly disagree with the characterization of
Lieutenant um Karns. Uh people do make mistakes and we're here tonight to address that. But he is correct. There is absolutely nothing in what that report that was submitted to you which would bar my
clients from owning a liquor license. There was no crime of moral turpitude ever committed. They are not statutoily barred. But in his opinion, he felt that because they answered the questions
improperly that they should be denied a liquor license. We strongly disagree. So, if you've read the report, I would first like to address the items concerning uh Johanni Jean Luis and I'm going have her step forward. Good
evening everybody. Good evening. Now, Miss Lee, you've read the report that was submitted by the West Orange Police Department. Correct. Correct. And as a result of that, the lieutenant has said that you were dishonest when
you responded to the question. You read that, correct? Correct. Okay. Now, I have a copy of the answer that you provided and which he correctly referred to as
question number 42. Would you like me to re read it? Well, you answered no. Correct. And the question was, have you or any member of your immediate family ever been arrested, indicted, charged with, or convicted of
a criminal or disorderly person's offense in the state of New Jersey? You answered no. Correct. Okay. and you're here tonight to give you a little background on your relationship to West Orange and to why you answered no.
You'll tell the board. Correct. Absolutely. All right. So, just briefly, uh, where were you born and raised? West Orange. Graduate from West Orange High School. Correct. In 2007. And after you graduated from West Orange High School, what did you do? I went to Penn State University. You were admitted to Penn
State. Yes. Okay. And um how long were you there? I was there for a year. And what happened? What caused you to leave? Um while there I was diagnosed with Graves disease, which is like an thyroid autoimmune disease. And after that you had to um basically
stay home for treatment. Is that correct? Correct. For about a year and a half. Um no one knew what was wrong with me initially. So back and forth to St. Barnabas. My parents wanted me home so that they could monitor me and see what was happening. And during that period that took you
into December of 2008, correct? Okay. And you've read the report. The report submitted by Lieutenant Karns shows that you had essentially three instances where you were either charged with an offense which was dismissed or
charged with an offense that was downgraded. Um, and one that you pled guilty to was a disorderly persons. None of these were crimes. Correct. Okay. Now, explain to the board how you confused your answer
with answering no, even though you were aware that these incidents happened 17 years ago. Well, um I answered no because I didn't understand exactly what the question was stated. I knew that there were
I it wasn't something that was criminal. I knew that um I made some mistakes and I'm honest about it and I'm here to talk about it. It was a really rough time for me. Um I understood that I was going to be fingerprinted and that this wasn't something that I was looking to hide. It
was just an oversight while filling out this very large in-depth application. Now during this period which was really just within a year that these three instances occurred what was your state of mind at and you were 18 years of age correct? Yes I was
18 years of age. Um I just was really lost. Uh I graduated college and the best time of my life. I'd be going to a school that I wanted to go to with some friends of mine. And when I found out that I had to come home and I wasn't going to be able to go to
school, it shattered me and I was really lost and I was looking for some guidance and I made some mistakes and I'm here to address them. I'm here to own up to them and I'm not that person that I was at 18. Now let's move forward. Yeah. What do
you have today? um as well as a way of employment. Um I own two ice cream shops in Union County. Magic Fountain Union crearyy being one in Union, New Jersey, uh on the corner of Voxil and Stson. It's been there for
about 50 years. I've been there for six. Uh there I employ 23 uh children of the community and we're open 10 months out of the year. I just opened up a second ice cream shop in Springfield where I'm looking to do the same as I'm doing in Union. Uh, I love being part of the
community and working with the community. Now, you live very close to the restaurant which you're hoping to purchase, correct? Walking distance. I went there as a child, the Charlie Browns, all the time. Okay. And in addition to your two magic
fountains, you also have another business that you're involved in. Correct. An electronic business. Now, when you filled out the forms, in addition to this one police report, there were several others that you had to fill out. Correct. Correct. And there
was nu numerous uh documents that you had to provide to the West Orange Police Department in order to obtain um the the approval. Correct. I spent three weeks obtaining documents. Okay. And all that being said, the only thing that was
reported was your uh failure to disclose that you had these three instances. One was dismissed, one was an ordinance, and one was a disorderly person. Is that correct? That's correct. And since that time, you've had no involvement with any uh legal authority in this state or any
other state that would prohibit you from owning a liquor license. That is correct. Does board have any questions? Yeah. Can you tell me about the business that you would like to open here? Yeah, absolutely. Um, so 34 South Valley, uh,
it is a local bar and grill. Right now, it operates, um, right now, I believe from 5:00 p.m. till about 2:00 in the morning. It's a place where people meet, people socialize, people get together. Um, I would love to come into the the
business and grow the business, offer some more food offerings. I have a background in supply chain management. So, I'd also be able to offer a lot of other things that the current owners don't have maybe the background time and knowledge to do.
Is there any other aspect of the restaurant that you plan on changing? Do you plan on on having it as a restaurant and bar? So, I know right now it's more of like a like an after like maybe like an afterwork spot where people will go
and socialize. I'd like to make um the opportunity where more families can come together and be there. Um I grew up in the area right off of Gregory Avenue. Like I said, I went there as a child uh Charlie Browns I think every Wednesday or Thursday night. So, I'd like to incorporate that as well. It's a really
great thing that I did after school um that I'd love to continue and offer to the other kids that are here in West Orange growing up. So, would you say say that this is going to be a familyfriendly restaurant? Absolutely. I'd love to see my neighbors. I'd love to see, you know,
peers that I went to school with bring their kids and their families. Um, I've spent a lot of time there in the establishment during this process and I've seen so many friendly faces, community, you know, leaders and, um, I'm very excited. I'm excited to have
this opportunity to just prove that I can do something different. And you've heard the concerns from neighbors about noise from commercial businesses. Um, and and you do have quite a bit of of residential property around around that business. How do you how do you respond
to that? Um, so I do know that there are some residential uh homes around that business, but we want to follow the rules and respect the rules that the township and the township ordinance has. Um, so I heard you speaking to somebody
earlier that, you know, loud music shouldn't be played, you know, past 10 o'clock at night if I'm not mistaken. If that's what I heard earlier. We want to follow the rules and I want to respect my neighbors. It's also the community I live in, right? So, okay. she has to respond to her neighbors because she is she is a neighbor. Yeah, I live in that
community. So, um like I said, I'd like to make it a little bit more family oriented. Um I have a couple of ideas. I've spoken to some people that um I've worked with in the past um in a similar setting and you know, as long as this goes well, I'm ready to hit the ground
running if given the opportunity. Any other questions of this course? my client. I have Carpa, you have any questions? No questions. Okay, I'll give the mic over to Mr.
Dorset. Uh, this is the other member, Jean Paul Dorset. Um when he responded uh pursuant to the report submitted by Lieutenant Karns,
he was asked on question 46, "Have you ever been a party in a civil court action?" He responded, "No." Lieutenant Kern said that an
investigation revealed that 21 years ago he filed a bank bankruptcy petition and withdrew it. I actually have the attorney who filed the petition here tonight, Mr. Cambria, because he wanted to and I don't want to
drag this on all whole all night saying that that is not necessarily how you describe a bankruptcy petition. Civil action is usually when it's a lawsuit, one party against another. He filed a
petition in bankruptcy and withdrew it. He answered no to the best of his ability to that question. He's here tonight to state that he didn't intend to mislead anybody. Correct. Yes. Yeah. You got to hold that up, sir. Yes. and
that he's looking forward to retiring in the next year and working at this establishment with his niece and he'd answer any other questions that uh the board may have. Mr. Cambria has been here and he has over an hour drive, but he felt it was very important. Mr.
Camry, would you please um flip forward? I just want to acknowledge the extent that we've gone through. He's an attorney at law in Homedale. He filed the um bankruptcy petition and withdrew it. But he was very concerned that there
was a misconception that this wasn't a civil suit. This was just a right that people have to file for bankruptcy. He worked it out and withdrew it. And we don't feel that's anywhere near a situation that would disqualify you from
having the opportunity to participate in a restaurant. How long ago did you attempt to file that? 21 years. Okay. Do you have any financial concerns right now? Do you have any financial concerns right
now? The answer is no. No. No. That's why he's making this. That's why he's going in. He's been good for 21 years. He's looking to retire and help his niece because he has a great talent. He can fix anything. So, we need that in the restaurant business. Yes. Correct.
Yes. Yeah. He's a little shy. She can see. How about our air conditioning here? Yeah, maybe we could do that. Several other people here that wanted to get up and say a few words. I told them that quite honestly it would only be
redundant. They would say nice things about both of these individuals. I think you've heard some very nice things. You have people that are committed to West Orange. And the beauty of the whole thing is this. Although you give them the liquor license, you still have the power to discipline. If something goes
wrong, un, you know, you have the right to call them in. And I think the the theme here is opportunity. As um my client said, she just wants the opportunity to prove that she can run this restaurant. It's been a dream of hers, that she's lived up the street.
She's been there since she was a child, uh when it was Charlie Brown's. and we're just asking for the persontoperson approval. Because of the police report and all that's gone in, I would ask that if you approve this that you make it effective July 15th because we still
have to get the funding although it's been approved. We have to get everybody together because I could not tell them and nor would I that um you were automatically going to approve this tonight and we could close tomorrow. So, I wanted to give everybody the time to
look at this and if you feel it's necessary, I can call a representative from the Union Police Department who's very familiar with the operation who wants to endorse this. But I know you have a long agenda and if you feel confident that these are people that you
want in your town, I would just ask that you approve the persontoperson transfer. Are there any other questions? Councilwoman Scarva, no questions. Miss Cook, are you involved in this at
all? No, I am not. Okay. She likes to watch me. Madame Clerk, I think we're Okay. So, 774-25. Um, basically, if it's approved, they're going to agree with the police department. Is that correct? What's
that? 774-25. Resolution regarding alcohol beverage controls adjudication of transfer of license application concerning JoJo services. This was a resolution to deny. No, we're not. That resolution to deny
is So you don't want that? Absolutely not. We want an approval. Right. So what we need to do is is adopt a new resolution. Correct. Add the resolution to the agenda by motion and all that. And I asked that the resolution be the transfer be effective July 15th. Okay.
So, I'm giving you plenty of time, right? So, um, so 774-25, if you do not want to approve this, you do not have to make a motion or a second and it can it will just fail. So, I'm going to call for an approval. And if I
don't hear any motions, then it fails. Of of which? 774-25. This is the resolution asking the council to or ABC board to deny this transfer.
So, if you want to deny it, you'll vote yes. If you do not want to deny, you don't need to make a motion at all. Well, I think we need I think we need to have the vote, don't we? No. No. You know, none of it's not moved, right? You
don't have to move it at all and then it fails. But don't we need to know if the three people here uh want It's up to you. I mean, if you want to make a motion in a second and then you can vote. No, you have to do that. I think just don't make any motion. Okay. So, you're good with no motion. No motion. I
am as well. Yeah, I'm good with that as well. Let's see. I am as well. Okay. So, there's no motion. So, that bails. Now I need a motion to add 778-25 resolution authorizing a persontoperson
transfer of license 072233215. I make a motion to approve. I second. Okay. Council Oh, I'm sorry. I keep Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes. Council President Cobbia.
Yes. Okay. Motion. Thank you for two reasons. Thank you for approving it and thank you for adjusting your calendar so that everybody can go home. Okay. Thank you. I I just want to make a a quick remark. First of all, I wish you a lot of success and thank you
for investing in in your town and in our town. And um I really do hope that that um you know you bring us a lot of happiness and that you also really respect that that it is a residential
area and neighbors right. Okay. Thank you once again. Best of luck Mr. Williams. Mr. Williams. Oh Mr. Williams. Very excited. Thank you so much. He gave me this. He wanted me to repeat it. Thank you. Have a great evening. Thank you Mr. Williams.
and make some vegetarian options. She didn't hear me. Will you be providing me for Oh, Jenaro or from I think you're good now. I did leave like one more thing. So,
thank you for Are we done? No. I make a motion to No, we're not. Wishful thinking. So, now we have 775-24. Oh, this is important. This is hearing
on renewal for pleary retail consumption, distribution, and club licenses for 20 well should be say 2025 2026 license term. This is the resolution with all of the licenses listed on it. It was updated today and I
sent it. Yes. Yeah. Did you also print it out? I believe I may have forgotten to do that. But I I can look at it online. It's online. Did you updated it online? I did. Yes, I did. Okay. And it's highlighted in red
so that you'll see there was two additional from the time that you received the original resolution. One is Misty's, right? Yes. It's uh in red. And then the other one is uh TNT Liquors. Correct. Trading as
Liquor Lobby. Yes. Oh, they're right there close together. Met their requirements. Tax clearance. They paid their fees to the state and they paid their fees to West Orange. Um motion to approve. Okay. Is there a second? Second.
Um, hold on a minute. Okay. It's not It's not loaded on the on the website, though. It is. I did it today. I did it this afternoon. Clicking on it. It doesn't doesn't Okay, it's all right. Um, Councilwoman Ruden, yes.
Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Koviaak, yes. Okay, the motion carries. Um 777-25 hearing on renewal for 202526 license term Harrison Avenue Tavern Inc.
That's also new. Yes, that is new. He got his tax clearance very late today at 400 p.m. So that Vinnie I know was what's the name of the business? The hat.
Mhm. I make a motion to approve. Okay. Is there a second? Second. Okay. Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Koviaak, yes. The motion carries.
Uh, I believe that is it. Now we can have a motion to adjourn the ABC and enter back into our I make a motion to adjurnn the ABC and enter back into our regularly scheduled programming. Yeah. Okay. And I second. Thank you. Uh, all
in favor? I I Okay. Thank you. The motion carries. We are back in our public meeting. I'm going to text Mr. Soraldo to let him know. Okay. If you guys are have having problems
hearing back there, come up front. It's not as noisy. Okay. Okay. Um. All right. So, we're going to review the consent agenda now. Yeah. I don't think
we need those guys at the moment. Okay. Um Oh. All right. Approval of minutes of previous meeting May 6th, 2025 and May 20th, 2025. Public meeting June 12th, 2025 special meeting.
Is there a consent? Consent. Consent. Thank you. Uh report of township officers. None. Reading of petitions and communications and bids. CDBG Road Rehab of Franklin Avenue and Oxford Place. Uh bid closing 6242510
a.m. Is there consent? Consent. Consent. Consent. The list. Um, are there any questions on the bill list? Yes. Okay, we may need uh Mr. Smalda and Mr. Tiniac. Okay, I did. So, I can move forward and then when they come in um
resolutions, are any resolutions being pulled this evening? Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes. I'd like to pull 16225. And uh I just have some questions on and comments on 15425, but I don't have to
necessarily pull it. Okay. So, what was the first one? 15325. No, 16225. Oh, 162. Sorry. Okay. All right. Start 162. Yes. I'd like to pull 158 158
just for question. Okay. So then you don't have to pull it if you only have questions. Yeah. Okay. I'll just mark that. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Um 159. I'm sorry. 158. 158. Yeah. Only questions. Question. Okay. We're also going to need
Mr. Smaldo for that. Okay. Um also 153. You're going to ask questions or poll? That's a poll. Both. Okay. Okay.
All right. And council president, do you have any? Uh, no. Okay, good. So, is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? Oh, wait. Yeah, that's Yeah. Is there a motion to approve the Make a motion to approve the consent agenda.
Okay. Second. A second. All in favor? I I Okay, the motion carries. Um All right. So, so in the meantime, can you sign all the ABC resolutions so that I can scan them
in and get the licenses tomorrow? Uh, it doesn't have the cute little color tapes on it. So, I don't know what to do with it. Slackers. I don't think I I No, that's here. So,
they're all So, and they're already knocked over once. Oh, but it was when it was full of ice. What happened? I guess that was just me there. So, she got back. Oh, that's very
good. That's a welcome back. All right, so this is Yeah, it wasn't too bad. Let me just go through them real quick so that I get rid of the one that was not approved. Well, 774. We got as far as we could without you.
Yes. Okay. All right. This is good. make a motion to journ. Yeah, we try we tried that already. This is all wet. Sorry, that's Are you going to have to redo this uh the resolution uh for
uh South Valley? No. No, they didn't change anything. one, Mr. Smaldo. Yes, sir. We have gotten as far as I think 153.
15. Councilwoman Ruden, hold that. Okay. I'm going to defer to the director storm water management. I I think that my questions are really more administrative. Okay.
But you actually pulled it, right? We're going to have a vote. 153, right? Yes. Yes. I would let this Yes. 153 was pulled by council me. Okay. So, I questioned um in advance why these
fees were so low and why they are so high so low for the developers and so high for the minor developments. Um 153. Yes. and and just a looking at other
townships um especially for large developments, they do much higher fees and then they tack on um a number per acre. For instance, Old Bridge does $175
per acre. So, I'd like to I'd like to see these fees increased, especially for for major developments. Council, I did not I'll let uh the director speak because I did not craft
the uh the fees. Yeah. So, for the fees for the major development, um I figure $1,000 since they're got to pay the escros for the review fees to the planning board and zoning board. Um there wasn't really anything behind it. And then the 750, I clearly
uh remember that we discussed that for the three reviews bills. Yes. So, I'm okay. I'm okay with it being 750 for the minor developments even though that's a little high. Um I I'm not okay with $1,000 for a develop
for major development. So, I'd like to I'd like to see that go up substantially before, you know, I would consider this and I'd also like to consider the additional tacking on per acre of a do it basically the same way that the soil conservation
district is doing it which is per acre and per let's say classification of the use. For example, site plans get charged a different number per disturbance or let's say a one single family dwelling three books in front of the border becomes a major development then you
will have a different kind of fee. Yes. Is that what I'm driving? Yes. Yes. But I'd like to just adjust these fees and then and have it come back. Is there is there a time that we need to do this by or can we do this at our next meeting to
get the adjustment? Meeting. Um but it's been more than 20 days already since the last you know second reading for the storm water ordinance was adopted right so just understand that delaying this means we're not going to be able to put it in place the order do
we have a major development coming up in the planning or zoning board doesn't be with me right now okay so I I'd like to propose I'd like to propose a permit a permit fee for a major development to be
minimum of 3K plus 175 per acre of the entire lot. Um I'm also wondering about stormwater escrow whether or not we should require an escrow. Well for don't forget if you have a major development they're going
to pay the escrow to the planning and selling board professionals for the review. Okay. So, so that will be no escro for the engineering department because there's nothing for me to review. It's already being reviewed and approved at the planning and zoning boards. So, all they're coming basically
to the engineering department is basically to get a piece of paper that says you have a permit. Okay. So, this is just for the permit price. Okay. Yes. So, that's the reason why they make it like because I know they're going to be paying a lot of money through escrow for all of the reviews and the consultants
for the boards. Okay. So, that's my my amendment that I'd like to see. Councilwoman Scarba. Yes, I would agree with Councilwoman Ruden. Um, we know when I put this together with her and um, our planning
board friend from Verona, she uh, Verona has significant uh, fees and given the financial situation we're in and adding to the engineering department, you know, we we need to really recoup some of the fees for the time that um, they are going to be
spending on these issues. So, I I would like us to look at what other townships are doing and um have a fee structure that's, you know, a little bit more um in line with others where we can recoup some of our costs.
Councilwoman Scarpa, uh I don't know if you were able to hear Councilwoman Ruden, but Councilwoman Ruden said that she did a survey of area uh municipalities to see what their fee structure was. and uh she came back with
some new numbers. I don't know whether you are able to hear those. Uh but that it it may not require you to do additional research or do you to see additional research because it sounds like Councilwoman Ruden has already done it. Right. All right. If that's the
case, that's fine. I just want us to be thorough and I want us to um make sure we're recouping our costs. So, we're good. Is there any other discussion? Because I think at this point we're going to have to uh either vote it down
or withdraw it and uh and you'll just bring it back at the July meeting. Yes. I will uh do it basically based on our ordinance on the three thresholds. Can we make the the changes that I suggest and vote on that and Yeah, let's do
that. Mr. clerk, can we just change the numbers in this resolution uh here tonight and then just vote on it to if it's a resolution? I I believe you can. I can't comment on whether there's any issues with what numbers you're changing it to. If there's some kind of
a legal issue with that, but if you're just trying to make a a motion for a resolution, you should be able to do that. Uh M. Carbalo, you don't know of any existing law or or regulation that would prevent us from changing the fees to the
fees that uh Council Rudy suggested. Okay. So, let's uh let's uh modify this uh by a motion and Councilwoman Ruden, each each thing that you want to change,
we will uh have a motion and vote. Okay. So, my first um suggestion would be to raise the permit fee for major developments to 3k $3,000. Yes. Okay. A
second. Wait, wait, wait, wait. So, before can we go through the actual resolution because I have to make a note on here. So, is it where it says for major developments that are part of the land use board application, a permit being the amount of It says right now
1,000. You want to change that to 3,000? Yes. Okay. Just want to make sure I get it right. Okay. And I'll second that if need be. Okay. All right. And we'll vote on that. That's the first amend. Can we vote on
all the amendments at once or should we do them separate? Yes. It'll depend on if we think there's going to be objections to the amendments. Oh, true. Clear. All right. We'll do them separate. Okay. So, let's do them separately.
Um, wait, I I I have a I have a question for the director. For a minor development, um, you included you you put the number 750 for three reviews. Yes. Do you think on a very small development that that
three reviews are necessary or can we lower the fee a little bit for the minor development? Um, I will tell you that I basically write at least six memos before a permit is issued. So, you think
that's a fair price? 750 is more than a fair price. If you look at a professional engineering fees, right? You're talking about at least $200 an hour. Okay. So, then should be we be raising the fee for the major. It's for the residents. So, just raise it for the
major. Okay. But is that even is that even raising it enough for the major? I'm not reviewing anything. I should definitely offset for the time that I spend doing the uh residential. And then what you could do if you want to do the
$3,000 and then do plus $175 per acre of disturbance. Um can I can I say for of the entire lot? I'd like to suggest for the entire lot because you when you review it, you also do the impact of the area that is not
disturbed. I don't have any issue. Okay. All right. I mean, it's just additional fees to the developer. It's not one for the residents. That's right. Yeah. I I agree with you about let's not load on to residents. Let's Right. I was
trying to lower it, but was a lot of work. I will be on it. There will be instances probably like if a resident comes to me and they say they don't have you know more money I will wait the fee. I have done it in the past for permits if it's a very small project. Yes. Yes.
Okay. I do make that consideration. Okay. Okay. So right now we're voting on 1,000 to 3,000. Correct. So I make a motion to Oh, we already did that. Oh, okay. Yeah. So we we voted for that. No, now we're going to vote. Okay. Councilwoman Ruden.
Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes. Council President Kovia. Yes. Okay. The motion carries. All right. Next amendment. I make a motion to add tack on to the 3K
175 for um per acre for the entire lot. I'll second it. maker for lot SS. All right. So, add to the $3,175
per acre for the entire lot or just for the size of the lot for the size of the lot. For the Okay. Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council
President Koviac, yes. Okay, the motion carries. Um, and where exactly in the resolution would that go? Right where it is, right? Oh, in the amount of
In the amount of $3,000 plus plus Okay. plus Oh, that's lovely. Thank you. Okay. Taking credit for your work. Okay. Is there any other amendments to this?
No. Okay, good. So, now we'll vote on it as amended. So, hold on one moment. Is there a motion to approve 153-25 as amended? So moved. Yes. A second. Thank you.
Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Kakoviaak. Yes. Okay. The motion carries. Now 58-25. Councilwoman Ruden, you had some questions about that. Yes. I had
requested that the letter that would be attached to the estimated tax bill written by the mayor um be um shared with the council. Okay. The mayor's not writing a letter. She's not going to write a letter. We We
had requested that. I understand the mayor's not writing a letter. She So, she chose not to because the mayor does a monthly mailing to everybody and so what she's going to do is include your information that you requested her monthly mailing and we're going to post
it on the website, social media, and everything else. Wait, what monthly mailing does she do to She has a monthly She does a monthly mailing through her office that she sends out. She's She's been doing it for a couple of months now. Who receives that? The citizens. I've never received it. I've never
received it. I don't know. I can follow up. She said received it. Don't think so. I don't know if it's an actual mailing. It may It may actually be You think it's an email? It may be an email. I'll follow up with it, but she said she's not going to do the letter for the It is an email. It is an email. and I
think it's posted to the website, but she's not um she chose that she doesn't want to do a cover letter. Um she'd rather include it in in on the um on the mailings or in you know, social media on her mail. So, well, we had specifically
requested that because I understand, but the mayor is the mayor and she doesn't want to write it. So, you have to take it up with the mayor. So, sorry, but uh I asked her I requested it and she she advised me she's not doing it. So,
is there is there an additional cost to mail the letter along with the third quarter? I I would estimate that there probably is a cost. I don't know if it's that exorbitant because it goes into the mailing. Um, but the the third quarter
tax bill or the tax bills, they are they just mailed directly without an envelope? Uh, no. they they they they go into an envelope and they're they're folded by the the company that we we send out. We print the bills, right? Um yeah, maybe they would tack on an additional fee for
folding the letter. Um, but I I think just my own opinion, um, a letter is probably better suited for the Q4 because then we would have our actual tax rates and we can explain, you
know, part of the letter usually is you have the pie chart of what the taxes are from the county perspective, the local, the board of ed. So, right now we're running off of estimated. Q4 we'll have actuals. So I I would I would put that
letter in for Q4. Okay. So again, you'd have your finals. And just so I when we did the questions and I sent them out, there was a comment about that. I did write in that question that comment that the mayor is not going to provide a letter. So I did I just thought that it wasn't going to be provided tonight.
No, no, no. It said it wasn't going to be provided because it had to be done by tomorrow. It has to be done by tomorrow. And she just felt that it wasn't time to do it. and u and I think she agreed with Mr. Diniac on if we could it may be better served if we're going to send
anything out to send it out in the fourth quarter. So let's uh go ahead. Sorry. All right. Yeah, let's get the timeline for the fourth quarter just so we can start work
on it now in terms of what copy we would like to suggest be included. Does that make sense, Council? Well, if if the mayor is going to refuse to put a letter in at all, then there's no point in creating. Well, we didn't say she's not going to do it in the fourth quarter. She just said she's not going to do it
in the third quarter. So, I don't know what what if it's going to be, you know, we we advised her that in that sense with the third quarter taxes, she decided she didn't want to do it. She asked our advice and and we came up with some solutions and and part of the
solution is to put what your request was for the uh the tree ordinance to put it in her monthly news feed. Okay. So, if uh if if you could just let us know what the timeline is for that. So,
for the fourth quarter. Well, you you said the mayor wanted to put the information in her monthly. Yeah, she I think she she works with Melanie and Kate on and producing that. So, I don't just don't know when that's going to be. That's they're I can find out from Kate and and Melanie tomorrow. Oh, please do
because I don't think she's expecting to reproduce the tree ordinance. I think it's No, no, it's not. No, it's just it's just a matter of and I think on in her letter we could actually put like the link so people can just click on it. I mean, the tree ordinance and a lot of other things are well um well embedded
into our our website. Um let me I I'll see if I can find it on the on the right. Yeah. So they have a few monthly newsletters up on the website and so you know there's a place for for links and for banners and you know logos like we
have the June one. It's we have the June is Pride Month on here. And I I see the newsletter. It's it's a reprinting of um past announcements and flyers. It's not a written newsletter. So,
is this going to be even on this one? She told me that they were probably going to do it on the next one. That's Yeah, they'll put it on the July. Yeah, it'll be on the July. Yeah. How many people get this? I don't know that answer.
I know it goes on our it goes on our website. It goes on social media whatever and I don't know Mr. Fagan if you can answer that question or not. I think I think if you sign up through civic send you automatically get a copy.
I'm not that familiar with it. I know it does it's not post on social media. I believe it's on the website but I can't answer for sure uh because I don't know. Okay. So, I would not call this a newsletter. This is This is It doesn't matter if if
the mayor wants to call it a newsletter. Okay. But this is project, Councilwoman Scarpa. Yeah. I just would like to say that the whole reason for sending this out with
the tax forms is that we have so many pe uh residents that are not on the email and never look at our website. This information needs to be disseminated in a serious way because most of the residents have no clue about our tree
ordinance. So, it does need to go out with the fourth quarter taxes and I would like to see us move in that direction. to the mayor. Well, that like I said, that's that's the mayor's call and you know, as we saw tonight, Mr. Fagan announced it that you know, tree
ordinance. We're going to make every effort to to publicize it, but um you know, mayor chose not to do the letter. That's very disappointing. Yeah. I think it's very clear that we make the right effort and the efficient and and appropriate effort and not some
effort that no one is going to see. every resident in this town who pays taxes would be getting that information instead of looking at our website. Well, I think it's ironic. We're trying to go paperless and we're talking about
tree ordinance and sending out letters that are made from trees. I just the irony is there. Well, thank you for pointing out that irony. I'm just I'm just just pointing it out. That's all we are and we are on our goal to go paperless. So, um you know, this is part
of it. What's a bug? Oh, it's a killer. E, is this a centipede? Not anymore. It's waving. I get a napkin. Mr. Samaldo, we're on
video. Is this really the way you feel about another life? Yes, it is. when Madam Bergstrom was going to succeed. Okay. So, I I think what I think what needs to happen is if uh uh the council
members who who really care about this, I think need to have a conversation with the mayor and see if there's some uh there's some uh middle ground that you can all agree on because I I agree that it would be more effective to send it
out in the in a tax in a tax form. uh because everybody who owns property here uh is highly likely to have trees. So, it would be a really good way to meet them. But, uh so I would suggest unless you
have a better idea that that maybe you and uh Councilwoman Scarpa uh see if you can arrange a time to to meet or talk with with the mayor and see if see if you can win her over. Yeah. I just want to say we have we have a history of
being inefficient in so many areas of the way we do business and this is common sense and I think it's a business decision as much as it is the mayor. So we're losing revenue
because people don't understand the tree ordinance. Exactly. So, we're committed to a fourth quarter letter and and we'll make sure that the, you know, that goes into it. Again, we we didn't want to send a letter
explaining the tax rates and have because they're estimated. We're cognizant of the fact that the revaluation has gone into effect. We're already getting the phone calls because we we did post the bill to MUNDEX. Um, you know, and we have people that think, you know, I'll take this third quarter
bill, multiply it by four, and this is what my taxes are for the year. And so, you know, we're constantly having the conversation of, no, you can't do that. It's you take your first and second, you're going to add to this one, and then the fourth one is going to be hopefully pretty close to this or not.
And um, so we just don't want to put estimated tax rates out there. And then if something goes up or goes down in the fourth quarter, you know, we're going to have people come back and say, "But you told me it was this rate, and now you're telling me it's this rate." So, we want to do the the letter with the pie chart
and explaining the tax rates for Q4. And, you know, we feel that that would be a good time to put um you know, re you know, anything we can kind of agree on as a group. Um, and certainly referencing the tree ordinance and you
know, Mr. Fagan brought it up here and I think we'll continue to bring it up in the public meetings and and really get the word out there so I can add to the conversation too. So, um, believe it or not, our staff actually sits home and watches this. Um, and I sometimes ask why because we're here and you know we
we do this, but so I received from uh Melanie that 24,000 people get the newsletter monthly. So, thank you Melanie. So, thank you Melanie for um for sending that in. And normally we don't like to call out names. I I apologize. I don't want to
say much, but uh she uh she provided that for us. So I want to give her kudos. So thank you. So 24,000 residents received the email monthly. So it's not as if it's not getting unheard. So Okay. Yeah. And and the other side of this is I I if I understand correctly, uh I
apologize. 2400. She corrected. She corrected me. Yeah, that's more like my glasses are off. I'm sorry. I I stand corrected, Melanie. I'm sorry. Thank you. 2400 newsletters. I apologize. Sounds better. There's a point.
2400 monthly emails. Yes. Emails. I don't We don't know how many instead of reaching every single household. So, okay, that's a choice. Well, it's property owner households. There's a lot of renters. Yes. In town. So, who would
not get that? But, uh, but the renters aren't taking down trees. Well, they could if they're renting if they're renting houses, they very well could. Uh, and I I'm not I don't want to argue with you. I'm not I shouldn't have said
anything. So, but I think the other the flip of this is that the council sounds very interested in actually helping develop the content. Uh, the wording of what we might think to suggest is
important to convey. That's so we would like to get, you know, I think a timeline. I I don't want to be speaking for you guys if I'm if I'm speaking out of term, but get a timeline and then we can work on and maybe some length issues of what might might be needed and we'll
develop some copy and uh suggest it. Yeah, I would say by the end of August we should have it finalized because we'll send the bills out in September. So, you know, just giving some some weeks between when we'd send bills out
and when we would want it. I'd say definitely by the end of August. Okay. Well, we can get you copy by then. And if you just want to give us a a rough length of of what you're looking for, we can put that together. Does that sound sound like a plan? It's really just one
sentence. Oh, okay. It's one sentence. Yeah. Not much to it, but I'll talk to the tax collector and sort of give you like a character limit. Not limit, but just because we're going to include the pie chart and the rates, just how much space is left.
Okay, great. That'd be great if we can collaborate on this. Have we drained this? Yep. Already approved on June 12th. Oh, right. That's what you're saying. So, it's in here on the agenda, but we
It is because it was a marker because I didn't want us to mess up the resolution number. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. So, and I also wanted to, you know, if people didn't see that particular meeting, then now they're aware that it
was already approved on that date. Okay, we can move on. Yes. 162-25. Resolution authorizing execution of professional services agreement with Diana McGovern, Esquire to serve as planning board attorney.
Councilwoman Scarpa, you pulled this. Yes. Yes. I think I made my um my thoughts on this very clear in my response to public comment in the letter that was sent. And I would like to make a motion to table this until we get an
appropriate response. Okay. Is there a second to table? Okay, hold on one moment. Okay, take a vote. Any more discussion before we vote? Yes. I would also like to ask where is Mr. Warner's contract?
So, Mr. Warner um is was asked to provide a contract. What I'm not going to get into the specifics, but there was no there wasn't an agreement amongst parties and that's why it wasn't provided. They so that they're still negotiating. Mr. Warner and the administ
or the the uh uh the legal division department is they're going back and forth. I don't understand the what what is there to discuss? He has a contract. We get to approve it. Right. When that contract is being disputed right now. So they're they're they're negotiating the
contract. So, I that's all about as far as I can get into it because I don't want to Well, then I would I would add on to that that until we see Mr. Warner's contract, we should continue to hold off on Miss McGovern's contract. Okay. Well, it's
it's up to the council, the individual council people, but uh that does make sense. Um makes sense to me and and it makes sense just for perspective or context. They were being compensated at two different levels up to this point. Yes.
During this year, right? Right. Okay. Yeah. The point was that what was asked was that we get them to parallel and we we got them to where that was the where there were the same um same compensation basically for the rate, the hour and all
that. Um but then there was some other I guess legal challenges that Mr. Warner and the administr or the law department were were discussing. So until it's that's settled, I don't know what and I can't get into specifics because I'm not handling the case, but I can tell you
that there was there's there's ongoing discussions. Then how can we approve Mr. Warner's bills at this time because he's he's been hired by the the uh zoning board, which the zoning board has the right to hire. This council asked to get a contract from they they can hire
whoever they want and Mr. Mr. Burke, you can back me up on this, but they can the zoning board, the planning board can can um hire who they want. They have that ability as the as the body. Um you asked if we can get these contracts, which which we were trying to do so that you
can just codify it basically. I guess that we we put it to you and then you you say okay. So that's what we did. You asked us to do what we did. Um we got we were able to get Miss McGovern's settled and Mr. Warner is not. So, by holding up
Miss McGovern's, we we did what you asked and now it's being held up because you don't need information from Mr. Warren. I can't, you know, just so we're we're all on the same page here. They're separate entities or separate businesses and we can't tell them what to
bill us for. You know, we just have to agree to it. If one business wants to charge us a dollar an hour and the other wants to charge us $2 an hour, you know, we did what we tried to do to help Miss McGovern out, but whatever the case is now. Well, I'd like to I'd like to just clarify the record. For years and years
and years, both of these positions were compensated at the exact same rate, which was 3 $3,500 plus five uh a year um plus 500 for special meetings. A few years ago, that
doubled to 7,000 plus 500 for special meetings. That recently went up to 750 for special meetings. Uh Mr. Mr. Warner had they both had the exact same contract. Mr. Warner had a contract that
was supposed to be given to um the council last year. It was put up on the agenda and then it was pulled and then he got another pro uh contract that nobody approved giving him uh $195 an hour while MissGovern was paid the same
rate of $7,000 a year plus 500 for special readings meetings. I pointed out the inequity and and the inequity apparently still exists. So I don't know how we can go forward with this and it has always been the the practice of this
council to approve the the um contracts of both of these um uh legal advisors. And just so you know based upon what what we've heard about the way that Ms. McGovern has allowed the planning board
to treat not just a full-fledged, properly seated member of the planning board, but our representative, the council's representative on the board has not been allowed to exercise her duties for multiple planning meetings. I
don't I I talked to lawyers who have never who have never heard that this has ever happened only because she's she's hurt. She's convilelesing and we're just totally ignoring it appears I'm not a lawyer but it appears we're ignoring federal and
state uh laws that require uh accommodations for handicapped people and it's so easy. I mean, as she said on uh in her note to Miss McGovern that she's completely
uh accommodated for the council like even as we speak, Mr. Fagan is holding up the sign that says she wants to talk. So, uh so I'm not holding this up uh for uh for uh Mr. Warner to come across on a
but and I do think that they should be paid equally. Uh we'll see what we'll see what the law says. But uh I I want that that issue with with Councilwoman Scarpa fixed before I vote for Ms.
McGovern because I just don't understand how she can legally stand there, sit there and allow a a sitting properly seated member to not participate, not even mentioning voting. She's not even allowed to vote. This is it's
unconscionable. And and I I'm not voting for her until this gets this gets satisfied. This is this is crazy. Councilwoman Scarpa, sorry I went on. That's okay. I want to thank you for your support and uh your
intelligent comments as always. Um I very much appreciate it and I completely agree with Councilwoman Ruden and I I'm so glad that she articulated all of the issues. We have to continue to look at our personnel procedures and ensure that
men and women are paid equally for the same work. Okay. Are we done with comment? Can we move to a vote? Sure. C. Madam clerk. Councilwoman Ruden. This is Excuse me. This is a vote to table. Yes. Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Councilwoman
Scarpa. Yes. Council President Kovia. Yes. Okay. The motion carries to table. Okay. Moving on to ordinances on first reading. 2928-25, an ordinance amending and supplementing chapter 7, traffic subsection 7-32.1,
handicap parking on streets of the revised general ordinances of the township of West Orange. Is there a motion to approve on first reading? Madame Clerk, before we go any further, I just want to interrupt you. I have down in my notes that uh councilwoman
Ruden wanted to or maybe this was me when it page 25 no scarf resolution for additional funds for emergency storm sewer. Did I say that jumped over that? But I don't think I said anything about it. I've got it written down here but I don't my note that says say something
about it at the meeting. Don't just put the queue down there. Yeah, it was approved on the consent but if you So it doesn't matter. Okay, let's move on. Sorry. And Mr. I I had asked to comment on 154 on the preparation of the estimated tax bills.
Oh yeah, I do have that. I Yeah, I'm sorry. It's just a quick comment, but I think it's important. Okay. And then we also have to do the bill list because that was pass it over. Gentlemen, we're out of the room. We're delinquent. Yes.
So, okay. So 154, Councilwoman Scarpa, resolution authingizing the Township of West Orange tax collector to prepare and mail estimated tax bills. Right. I just want us to all um call our attention to the words of Michila Lefkowitz because
her comments about uh the taxes are have been, you know, driven home from so many residents that have been contacting me that are absolutely outraged as what they call the taxes that are out of
control. and they want to see us go to a zero um increase on the budget. So, I think we need to make sure that happens. I am concerned because we're coming to the end of it and we are not close
enough. Um I wanted to go on the record that um she is right. Mr. Datiniac needs to sit down with every director and make the necessary cuts to get to zero. And maybe we need to look at freezing all
new hires, but I will uh I think that we really need to make sure that we are doing the work that the residents are asking us to do and that is critical. I don't you know I want to make sure that everyone heard that loud and clear.
Thank you, Councilwoman. I think uh everybody's hearing you. I just think it will be a lot easier to focus on the target once we get the list of all of the suggested u modifications of the
mayor's budget uh that we should be getting before uh the next budget workshop. I think that will make things a whole lot easier uh to understand and to see exactly where we are. Great. I completely trust your judgment on this matter. I just wanted to go on the
record of we need to take this seriously. Right. I understand. Mr. Diniac, did you want to respond at all? I'm You don't have to. I I I think it's it's it's going to be a very difficult task to get to zero. I don't think it's possible. Um
I'll remind everyone the board of education did not go to zero. They went up to $274 on the average home. Um, you know, what we're seeing now is is unfortunately with the revaluation,
the new calculations for for residents, some have gone up in taxes and, you know, 40ome percent have gone down. So, you know, we're not going to hear from them. Um, but that sort of magnifies the the year-over-year change
is because the assessment went way up and now they're paying a larger portion of taxes as opposed to when they were paying last year. So, um, you know, e even if we went to zero, you're going to have 40% of the residents that are going
to say, "You just said you went zero, but my taxes are still up $1,500 yearoveryear." and and that's unfortunately due to the revaluation. Um, and so, you know, we're going to have a a set of of residents that no
matter what we do here, they still are going to go up. We Oh, did you can I ask I'm done. Yes. Oh, yeah. I mean, we have no control over the board of education, but we do have control over our budget, and we
were put in this position to get the situation under control, and we need to do whatever we need to do to make sure we get our finances in order, right? But I'm I want to be realistic and and getting to zero I don't think is going
to be realistic. But we're going to continue to go through this process and get it as low as we can. But I don't want to promise zero because I just don't think that there's a way to get there. Okay. Now we're back to the ordinances and uh oh bill list. Sorry.
Okay. So, um, given the fact that we have some sort of issue with Mr. Warner's contract, I would like to pull all the bills for Mr. Warner's firm.
Um, I would also once again, I think this is my my fifth time, um, pull the bills to, um, that are authorizing payment to DA Stokes, who was hired to
repost government content. on um the mayor's personal non-governmental um Facebook page. Um this person is a preschool teacher um employed by the mayor and this um is a clear case of
insider hiring and it is a conflict of interest. Over the past year and a half, we have paid over $20,000 in taxpayer funds um for this service. Um I think it's redundant and inappropriate and
I've reported this to the state finance um board for review. I do not think that um we should pay this bill and I ask my colleagues to support me in holding out until we have a review from the state finance board.
So, so I first I' I'd like to point out um this person was hired by the mayor. It wasn't anything done illegal. Um you could report to whoever you want. Mr. Burke actually um wrote an opinion earlier today, which I I'll turn it over
to him, but uh Miss Stokes is no longer going to be work employed by the mayor as of uh July 1st. Um and this was nothing that was done illegal. Nothing was hidden. And to make accusations like that, you should really I I would just caution you to stop to make those don't
make those accusations if you can't back it up. I'm not making an accusation. I think that this is an abuse me. So maybe that this is an abuse of taxpayer fund and I think it's inappropriate and I don't think that the taxpayers of West Orange should be paying for this. So
that's why I'm Mr. Bur he pulling this Mr. Burke. We didn't see anything improper in our review, but if if the council woman wants to pull the bill based on the referral to the state board, that that's her prerogative. No, I understand. But
it's not a it's not you it's nothing that was done unethical. In your letter, you said it's it's not it's not unethical. The information that was given to us, nothing that we saw appeared to violate the local government ethics law. So, if if if it's your prerogative to pull the bill and not pay her for services provided, then that
that's going to be your prerogative. But she did provide the services. Legal provide an opinion. It's not unethical. Um the the services are ending. Services are provided. I think it's in best interest to just pay it and be done with it. But that's not my decision to make.
That's the decision of the council. So Mr. Burke, did did you distribute your legal opinion to the council? Yes. When when did you send that out? At about 5:00 today, I believe. Oh, okay. Okay. We will look at it. Thank you very much for your efforts.
Councilman Ruden, does this I you you're probably like me and have not had a chance to review the legal opinion from Mr. Burke, and I don't know whether that would even change your mind or change uh Councilwoman Scarper's mind, but uh at at this point, do you
want to uh continue on with your uh request to withhold? Yes, I would. I' I'd like to continue my request for withhold funds. Okay. and we can take a vote on that. Um, so I need a motion and a second to
withhold Warner the Warner bills and uh the bills for Miss Stokes. I make a motion to withhold both. Second. Okay. Uh, Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa,
yes. Council President Koviaak, yes. Okay, the motion carries. Okay. I'd also like to just make a a point but not not not pull bills. Um for anybody who was wondering whether Mr. Tran is still serving this town, we have in here bills
um for over $22,000 for a month. Um my opinion seems to be he seems to be nickel and dimeming us for everything. He's still charging um the taxpayers to pay um for for um speaking with department
heads and with the mayor, which is all part of his contract, explicitly part of his contract as township attorney. Um we're being charged for his letters, threatening letters that are written to me. Um and
um just want to make sure that the public is aware that Mr. Tran is still very much working for this township and definitely charging us everything he can. And I think in the court case uh we we meaning the council are restricted uh by
the judge from doing anything about his compensation. So, I I appreciate you bringing the the facts to the to the forefront, but there's unfortunately, as far as I can tell, as far as our lawyers have told us, there's nothing we can do about it
except try to move on in the uh try to settle the litigation. So, now, can we get the ordinances? Yes, we can, please. Okay. 2928-20. Do we vote on the bill list as a whole, or do we just vote to pull those? We
don't normally vote on the bill. We just do like consent. Is there consent on the bill list? Consent. Consent. Thank you. Consent, Mr. Burke. Thank you, Mr. Burke. Um, it's getting to that time of night. Yes. Okay. So, I already read the title for the handicap parking. Is there
a motion to approve on first reading? So, moved. Is there a second? Second. Second. Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes. Council President Koviaak. Yes. This is a This
is an ordinance to create a uh handicap parking stall. Yes. Um in front of 25 Tommpkin Street. Okay. 2929-25, an ordinance amending chapter 25 section 11.10 regarding outdoor cafes.
Is there a motion to approve on first reading? I'd like to make amend an amendment to the resolution. Okay. Um we need a uh Okay, that's fine. Okay. U we have to So, Mr. Burke, just so we have
to know if it's substantiative or Well, it's it's first reading, so we can amend it uh now without regard to whether it's substantial or not. Okay. Um but it's going to have to be reviewed by the planning board, I believe, in between first and second reading and then be read again for second reading. Okay. So,
I'm not sure whether this was a typo or an error. Um, but when we met the first time to discuss this, we had shifted the hours for the outdoor cafe um from noon to 8:00 a.m. So, the hours of the
outdoor cafe should actually be from 8:00 a.m. until 1000 p.m. Okay. So, and it right now reads 900 a.m., right? Oh. Okay. I believe that's a typo. Okay. So,
if I had sent the um I had sent that to Mr. Jenaro and I believe it was 8 a.m. Yes. Okay. All right. So, then if it's just a typo, what do we do? Just fix the typo. Make a difference at this point. Yeah. Fantastic. As long as
it's reviewed by the planning, I'll make sure that it gets fixed. Okay. Um, is that the only thing that is? Okay, good. All right. So, is there a motion to approve on first reading? So, moved. Is there a second? Second. A second.
Yeah. Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa? Yes. Council President Koviaak? Yes. The motion carries. Thank you. And may I ask, will you send this for the next council meeting? I mean, the next planning board meeting. I will send it
to um Miss Adams tomorrow morning and she decides when it goes because they have their agenda set far in advance. So, she'll let me know the date. Okay. Because we'd really like to get this on for second reading. And actually, there's not I'm not even sure really
sure why this is going for a second review for the planning board because there were changes made. So, they need to review it again. Um, okay.
Um, so I mean we'll do the best we can, but it's up to Miss Miss Adams. I have no control over that. Um, ordinance 2930-25, an ordinance amending and supplementing chapter 7, traffic subsection 7-18.1,
one-way streets designated, subsection 7-12, parking prohibited for street cleaning and maintenance. Subsection 7-14.1C, night parking restricted. Subsection 7-46.2, two, parking prohibited during certain
hours on certain days on certain streets servicing residential land uses except by permit and 7-46.9C permit exceptions of the revised general ordinances of the township of West Orange. Is there a motion to approve on
first reading? So moved. Thank second. That was a little bit behind. Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council President Koviaak, yes. The motion carries. And just just so if you're wondering at home what
we're talking about, we are uh we are voting on a proposal by uh the administration to make Standish Avenue downtown, a one-way street one way uh heading north to south uh to address a
lot of the parking and traffic concerns uh on the street. Next. Next is uh let's see pending matters. New matters council discussion. First matter is Morone Flowers Ltd. The
Library of New Jersey LLC extension request cannabis renewal application. I'll bet you that last person here No, that's what she Oh, that she here for this. No, that wasn't her. So, who put
this on the agenda? Um I wish I could remember if you say as it was I believe no I believe it was Mr. Moon. Um they need an extension similar to the last one that was granted
by the council. Um yes I'm trying to remember why. For their license. They didn't they didn't finish their license in Right. Yeah. It was Yeah. It was a simple Yeah. It wasn't anything. They just need a little
bit more time. Right. Okay. Is there any Is there do we need any discussion here? No. Okay. Counciloman Scarper. No. Okay. Good. Let's All right. So, is there a motion to approve the extension? We can do that. Um, so moved. We can do
that and then they'll put you'll put it on the next uh agenda. Okay. Yes. Um, is there a second? Yeah, I'll second. Councilwoman Ruden. Yes. Yes. Councilwoman Scarpa. Yes. Council
President Koviaak. Yes. Okay. Next is discussion of the consensus appointment for the economic development commission. We have some candidates. Okay. But I don't think they have been fully vetted by the uh council people. So I'd like to
move this to the next meeting. Okay. Under pending matters. And we will we will nail this at the next meeting. That's okay with everyone unless somebody put this on the agenda. So, I don't know if they have uh they have any candidates.
I didn't put it on. Okay. Well, it's one of those mystery things, but Okay. Okay. So, we will we will just uh uh postpone this till the next council meeting and we will we will get this done. Right. That's July 22nd. Yes. Okay. The third item is a
discussion on seasonal ban um on gas leaf blowers. Um I don't know if any action is being taken tonight on this, but I think that in all fairness to Councilwoman Castelino, I know that she has some thoughts on this and I think maybe it
should be postponed until she has an opportunity to be here and talk about it. I don't think that there really is any discussion. I I can give you the information that I have. I wrote to the mayor and said that since she had always
proposed a seasonal ban um and that and that she said that there was full support from the uh lawn care community that she had supported that. And I asked if she would if she would support an ordinance allowing a seasonal ban. and
she wrote back and said that she would support a seasonal ban if it excluded golf courses and municipal property. Right. And I wrote her back, you probably were copied on all of this, that that is not legal. That would set
us up for lawsuits. And she wrote back and said that's the only way she would approve it. So unless councilwoman Scarpa would support it, uh a seasonal ban that does not exclude those properties, then we have nothing to
discuss. Okay. So at this time at this time. Okay. Um but I I and that wouldn't come up until until until next time. So, so Councilwoman Scarpa, would you would you support a seasonal
ban that did not make exclusions? Um, I I sincerely believe we need to get the stakeholders in a room and and get a little agreement on this before we would move forward on the ban. As I had said before, I really have said for a while,
almost a year ago, that I thought a referendum was the way to do it. I do agree with a seasonal band. If we get agreement from the school, if we talk to the schools, if we talk to our recck department and um and the landscapers
and get some kind of agreement, the landscapers have all agreed. Okay. Well, we also have a situation now where it's unlikely that we would have a supermajority to override the mayor's veto. So I I think any discussion about
So I think a discussion on this is really yes not not appropriate since we don't have the votes. Yes. Um I would like to make a suggestion for a a new matter to be discussed. I think that I can do that. So um we had previously discussed a noise ordinance and changing
some of the hours um for noise in certain areas. So I would like to bring that um for first reading next um council meeting. Okay. And who is um is the legal
department aware of this? Like do they have an ordinance? We've already we went through it once already, but then it got rejected and and it never went forward. So I will send the changes that I would like to be made. Okay. Through you to the legal department. Okay, that's fine.
Um council president. Yes. Oh, I beg of pardon. Uh Counciloman Scarpa, please. Yeah, I just think given what we've heard tonight from the residents, it's imperative that we get this done immediately,
both this and the cafe ordinance. And I want to thank uh Councilwoman Ruden for all of her hard work on this on both of these. Thank you. So, do we need to take a vote? Yeah. Oh, you you need to take a vote to
add this to the 722 agenda. Uh, so moved. Okay. Second. Okay. All right. Councilwoman Ruden, yes. Councilwoman Scarpa, yes. Council
President Koviaak, yes. Okay. The motion carries. Um, 7:22. Okay, good. And if there's nothing else, we can have a motion to adjurnn. So move.
Is there a second? Second. Second. Too late. All in favor? I I. Thank you, West Orange. Good night. Good night, West Orange. Thankfully, it's not good morning. We did it.
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