Phone's on mute, please. Thank you, Allison. I'm going to call to order the meeting of the West Windsor Township Council for May 19th, 2025. Allison, can you please call the role? Gwas here. Jivers here. Mandel
here. Weiss here. Whitfield here. And have we adequately noticed? Yes. On January 17th, 2025 to the Times in the Princeton packet filed with the municipal clerk posted in the municipal building and on the township website. Please stand for the salute to the
flag of the standis and justice for all. Thank you. Um, we have three important ceremonial matters today. The first one is the recognition of West Windsor
Township State Finalist, uh, Rohan Joeler, uh, in the 2025 Lewis Bay second future municipal leader scholarship competition. Mayor, I believe you have the, uh, form there. Yeah. Uh, congratulations, Ron. I'm
happy that every year uh when we announce this a number of uh students from Western Slainsboro School District participate. Um I know how busy kids are in high school but I'm very happy that a number of them participate and uh we
have won our fair share of uh awards. Um it's quite an honor to be a state finalist since there are so many kids from every town in New Jersey participating. So congratulations. Um, there Okay, thank you. Um, next up, this is uh
Pride Month coming up in June. So, Dan, if you'd like to read our proclamation. Thank you. Your comments as well. Good evening everyone. So, last year we made history by issuing a proclamation recognizing Pride Month for the first time. And tonight we continue that
commitment. Um this is an important moment not only for me personally but for so many people in our community who deserve to feel seen, valued, and safe in a place that they call home. Pride is not just a celebration. It's a
declaration of visibility in a world where LGBTQ plus people are still too often pushed to the margins. It is a statement of resilience at a time when our community is under attack across the country through harmful
rhetoric and policies designed to erase our identities and silence our voices. I've had the opportunity over the past several months to meet with many WWP GSA student groups, spaces
where young people come together with hope, with courage, and with questions. And the questions that come up often are, are we protected? Are our rights secure? And are we
safe? I'm proud to say that here in New Jersey, we have some of the strongest anti-discrimination laws in the country. Our schools are required to teach inclusive curricula. Our laws protect LGBTQ plus individuals from discrimination in employment, in housing, and health care. And we
continue to fight against hate, hate crimes, and intolerance. These protections matter. They ensure that our children can grow up in an environment where they don't have to choose between who they are and the opportunities that
they deserve. But laws alone can't create the culture of acceptance that we need. Acceptance isn't just about what's written in policy. It's about how we treat each other. It's about friendships that uplift and support each other. It's about allies, colleagues, teachers,
parents, and friends who step up and speak out when they see injustice. So, acceptance is more than just inclusion. It's about celebrating the beauty of our differences. It's about recognizing that diversity isn't something to tolerate. It's something to
celebrate and cherish. And when we embrace that mindset, we all benefit. When people feel that they belong, they thrive. And that is what we should all be striving for. And that's what makes tonight so powerful. This proclamation
is more than symbolic. It's a message to the el to every LGBT plus person, especially our youth. That you belong, that you are seen, you are valued, and that you are loved. Tonight, we're also going to
honor Asian-American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to recognize the enormous contributions of that community to our nation and our township and to reflect on the adversity that they have endured. From the Chinese
Exclusion Act to the internment camps of Japanese Americans, from the targeting of seek and South Asian communities post 911 to the horrific rise in anti-Asian hate during the CO9 pandemic, this community has known deep pain and
prejudice. Their contributions are an essential part of the American story and they deserve both celebration and se and solidarity. Both proclamations tonight are celebratory in nature, but there are also acknowledgments of struggle and a
promise to do better. They call on all of us to remember that true equity is not just about recognizing identity, but about removing barriers. It's about building a community where all people, regardless of race, gender identity, or who they love, can live fear uh free
from fear. So, I'd like to take a moment to recognize that today, May 19th, also happens to be National Asian and Pacific Islander HIV AIDS Awareness Day. This day is dedicated to breaking the silence and stigma about HIV in the AAN HPI
communities, promoting education, testing, and access to care. So, as we celebrate both proclamations tonight, it's important to acknowledge the unique health challenges at the intersection of these identities and to reaffirm our commitment to equity, inclusion, and
public health for all. And so, as we uplift these communities, I want to invite all of you to join in the many pride celebrations and ceremonies taking place in Mercer County and around New Jersey. From parades and flag raising ceremonies to panel discussions, youth
events and family festivals, there are many opportunities to stand together, learn from one another one another, and celebrate love, identity, and inclusion. So, here's a a short list of events that I've compiled that can be also found on my website
calendar. Uh the Princeton Burough Pride flag raising ceremony starts uh on Friday, May 30th at noon. The prom for Queer Youth by High Tops held at the Arts Council of Princeton is on Saturday, May 31st at 5:00 PM. The New
Jersey Pride Parade and Festival in Asbury Park, which is both the oldest and largest Pride celebration in New Jersey, is on Sunday, June 1st at 11:00 a.m. Hopewell Township Pride Flag Raising Ceremony, is on Monday, June 2nd at 6. The Ewing Township Pride Flag
Raising Ceremony is on Tuesday, June 3rd at 12:00 noon. The Mercer County Pride flag raising ceremony is at Mercer County Park right here in West Windsor on Wednesday, June 4th at 5:30. The Trenton Pride flag raising ceremony is on Friday, June 6th at 4 p.m. An
expungement clinic will be held on Tuesday, June 3rd at 3 p.m. sponsored by the Mercer County Division of LGBTQ plus affairs. There's a the Pride on the Plaza Festival and Dance Party at the Hines Plaza by the Princeton Library, sponsored by the Arts Council of
Princeton is on Friday, June 6th at 7 p.m. The Trenton Pride Parade and Festival is on Saturday, June 7th from 11:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Princeton Pride Fest is on Sunday, I'm sorry, the Princeton Pride Parade and Festival is on Saturday, June 14th from 11:00 a.m.
to 4 p.m. The Lawrence Pride Fest is on Sunday, June 15th at 9:00 a.m. And finally, the Robbinsville Pride Fest, which is celebrating five years of Pride with their neighboring towns, is on Saturday, June 28th from 2 to 4 p.m. So whether you're part of the LGBT plus
community, a proud ally, or simply somebody who believes in the dignity of all people, I encourage you to participate. This is our proclamation. Whereas this nation was founded on the principle that every individual was born
free and equal in dignity and rights. And the mayor and township council of the township of West Windsor calls upon the people of this municipality to embrace this principle and work to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists. Whereas while society at large increasingly supports LGBTQ plus
equality, it is essential to acknowledge that the need for education and awareness remains vital to end discrimination and prejudice. Whereas LGBT plus individuals have immeasurable impact to the cultural, civic, and economic success of our country, our state, and town. And
whereas June is celebrated as Pride Month on the nation, state, county, and local level throughout the United States. Whereas the township of West Windsor is committed to supporting visibility, dignity, and equality for LGBTQ plus people in our diverse community. And whereas celebrating Pride
Month influences awareness and provides support and advocacy for West Windsor LGBTQ plus community and is an opportunity to take action and engage in dialogue to strengthen alliances, build acceptance, and advance equal rights. And whereas West Windsor Township joins
the state of New Jersey and County of Mercer in honoring the history of the LGBTQ plus liberation movement in supporting the rights of all citizens to experience equality and freedom from discrimination. So now therefore be it resolved that the mayor and township
council of the township of West Windsor hereby recognizes and proclaims the month of June 2025 as Pride Month in support of the LGBTQ plus community. Thank you so much. Thank you.
Thank you, Sonia. This is the first annual um Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month proclamation for West Windsor. So, if you would present that to us, please. Sure. Thank you. Um before I read the
block proclamation, well, Dan, I think you covered all the feelings very well, so I won't get into that. Um, I want to thank um the governor for um having a celebration um tonight celebrating Asian-American Native Hawaiian and
Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Um obviously I can't be there because I'm here, but um here it goes. Um whereas the township of Wester cherishes its rich tapestry of cultures and the diverse individuals who call our town
home. And whereas the vibrant and m multifacetated um Asian-American native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities form an indispensable thread in the township's social fabric with their varied
languages and traditions adding immeasurably to the lives of all its residents. And whereas the United States of America has designated May as Ahi Heritage Month, a time to
acknowledge and celebrate the profound history and enduring contributions of A&H PI Americans to our nation's story. And whereas the values of family,
community spirit and diligent work ethic exe exemplified by A&HPI coupled with their unwavering commitment to the idols of our country have played a vital role in fortifying
and upholding the fundamental principles of our nation across generations. And whereas A&HPI entrepreneurs, researchers, and educators fuel our economy and enrich
our community through their dedication and an innovative spirit, serving as powerful role models for the next generation of Americans. And whereas Ahi have left an indelible mark across a
wide spectrum of fields including science, education, medicine, law, politics, business, culture, military service, charitable endeavors, and athletics. And whereas
A&HPI actively contribute to the well-being of Westminster as dedicated volunteers, first responders, teachers, health care providers, business owners, professionals, service personnel, and
government officials. And whereas throughout the month of May, the Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities unite to honor their rich
and diverse heritages and timehonored traditions. And whereas we deeply appreciate the multitude of contributions made by the Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities to our
beloved nation, state, and township. And we resolutely condemn all manifestations of prejudice and discrimination. Now therefore be it resolved that on this fifth um fifth day of May 5th 19th
right 19th day of 19th May 2025 the mayor and township council of the township of Westminster County of Mercer state of New Jersey hereby recognize May as Asian-American Native Hawaiian and
Pacific Islander Heritage Month in perpetuity. Thank you. That was very nice. Okay. Right. Um very appreciative.
Um and we're now going to move on to public comment. We have a threem minute limit per person and I'm going to ask everybody to address the chair that wishes to speak. And I do want to point
out that this is for general public comment. We do have a number of ordinances on the um on on the agenda and they will have their own hearing time for those particular ordinances. So if you look at the agenda and you see a
hearing for which you wish to speak about, there will be an opportunity before these are voted on. If you wish to speak particularly on any there is a second public comment period but if you wish to speak on any resolution that will be voted on please make sure to
speak on it in the first public comment period. Uh seeing that I will now open the uh public comment. Do we have anybody on the list? There's nobody on the list. No. Okay. Thank you.
Um, William Rutled 19, Scott. Absolutely. Um, you'll have to speak right into that microphone. So, you can either you can hear me. Yeah, you can either take it out or try to lift it up a little if you want. Might be a little easier.
All right. Okay. William Rutled, 19 Scott Avenue. Um, thank you all. Appreciate it as always. Um just wanted to remind you from the Barryian City Princeton Junction neighborhood. Um back
in November we gave a presentation and I realized that the budget is coming up and so we are hoping and requesting that there will be funding available this year to begin making the safety improvements including reducing the
speed limit uh to 25 miles an hour all the way to Route 571 and improvements to the crosswalks um at the intersections along Alexander Road and Wallace. Um let's see, Scott
Harris, you know, have no flashing markers, for instance. Um and we presented some data that showed the number of accidents that occurred in that area. So, um just that's it. basic request that
you take a close look at that this year. Thank you. Thank you. You can tilt and that'll [Music] work back. testing. Yes, please. Oops. I'll just hold it. Yeah, stay close to it so we
can hear. Hi, I'm Susan Conland, 98 Harris Road. Uh, thank you. Yes, I'd like to um second um my colleague and neighbor Bur to mention um few months ago we had the opportunity to take a walk together and
look at some of the conditions in our neighborhood looking at intersections um crosswalks on Alexander Road in particular. And then we followed it up with a um a report and a presentation we
made here to all of you. And then um after that time um I sent some correspondence and asked for some followup. Hadn't heard back from anyone on that um we actually with the exception of uh Dan um spoke to us a
little bit about the budget process. So, we're aware that um while there's money in the budget to make improvements um for for these types of um upgrades for pedestrians and for everyone and motorists as well, everyone using the
roads and what we're hoping for is um to move forward with them. And um we realize that there are quite a few um urgently needed are the crosswalks at Alexander and Harrison, Alexander and Scott. They as Burr mentioned there are
no flashing beacons there. uh very dangerous to cross and we're very concerned with people of all ages, our commuters and also especially the um number of students who attend Westminster Queens High School South who
walk down Harrison Cross at that intersection. So, um if if possible, um you know, because we're just we're trying to figure out how to best use our time to direct our time and attention to
this and move forward. Um it would also be helpful if we could have a little bit more um transparency about how the process works so that we're not just coming here and going around around in circles. I don't know if that would mean
is there somebody, you know, instead of appealing to all of you, if there was somebody who could be designated to help us um with this process and we're aware that there's many other places throughout the township where residents have very similar concerns. So, I think
they as well would benefit from having a more um a clear process. Okay, that's it. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else wish to speak? Hi, Kevin Rnaldo, 106 Harris Road. Um, I
just wanted to come and show support for everything that they just said. I think they summed it up rather well. Um, if we could just, as Susan said, if we can find out some more information uh, moving forward so we know where to spend our time when we get together in the
groups that we have to discuss the things that, you know, we're hoping for in that area. It'd be wonderful. Uh, another thing just on a side note, I was curious to find out or if anybody would know the new roundabout on the other side of uh, the Washington Road Bridge.
Kevin, could you Oh, sorry. the new roundabout on the Washington Road Bridge on the other side. It seems like the center portion is pretty flat and I haven't seen it, but I've talked to numerous residents that have said that cars are going straight across it rather
than going around the roundabout. Now, if you look at the one that's on Alexander Road by the bridge, it's it's lifted up. It raises. This one is is flat with the road, so cars can just go directly across. Uh, another concern I
had was um when you drive that portion of the road, there are quite a few bumps that aren't labeled. Um, and there's a concern for for motorcyclists. Um, I did have a friend that ended up passing away from a motorcycle accident because they
were on a road and they hit a bump that wasn't marked. So, it's just a concern that not all of those are are marked very well and when you hit it with a car, it it is jolting. So, it's a concern for uh motorcyclists as well. Um, but that's all. Thank you very much.
Have a good evening. Thank you. Anybody else? Good evening. Dave Kimmel, 11 Scott Avenue in the same neighborhood as um Susan Burr and Kevin. So I echo their comments as well uh that we had the
pleasure of walking the neighborhood with a lot of lot of everybody a lot of people more than six months ago made their presentation. So looking for um some updates on what's happening or what may be happening in the future. Of course the budget there's a hearing for that tonight. So please keep that in
mind in the future when those projects are planned for road improvements and safety for people that walk and bike. Um but beyond that, um we had other requests that maybe aren't so budget related, like what what's the easiest thing that could be done right now? And one of those would
be um taking it um could you move in a little closer? Take taking action to reduce the speed from 30 to 25 in that very small stretch of road on Alexander. That's something that does not require uh the budget as well as
uh intersections. for instance, Scott Alexander. [Music] Um there's signs that are missing on some sides to alert people that there's a crosswalk for people crossing the street as well as um in comparison at
Harris and Alexander in one direction in the middle of the road there's a stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk sign that's you know on the yellow uh line in the middle but there's none at for instance and Scott and Alexander. Uh
just outside here when you walk in there's five of those just sitting on the sidewalk. I think maybe we could take one or two of those and just put them. Could be a really easy thing to do. Um they also don't cost money if we want to leave the five out there. U but
uh those are some quick re comments to reiterate what uh my neighbors said that keep us in mind for the budget, but also what can we do? what's really easy to do right now that really doesn't cost any money that could improve safety like those things or even some flexible
ballards like Princeton has uh on Washington Road that'll narrow the traffic. Um also just to reiterate, I know the agenda also has the complete and green streets resolution for adoption tonight. The West Windsor Bike
Pit Alliance, we made some comments last time and submitted a letter. I'm not sure if administration and council got a chance to look at that before whatever was prepared for the meeting. It didn't look like there were many uh changes based on the comments, but just want to make sure that you have a chance to look at that.
Um and and thank you again for your work. Thank you. Anybody else? Thank you everybody. Please try to stay up to that microphone otherwise it doesn't get recorded also. Even if we even if we can hear it, it doesn't wind up in the
recording. Right. Thank you, Sylvia Ascarelli, 27 Milville Road. So, among the many months, things that are being honored this month is it May is National Bike Month. And one regular part of that is the ride of silence to honor those
who were hit or worse killed while riding their bikes. It's an international event that's held at 700 p.m. local time on the third Wednesday of the month. So, in this case, it's the day after tomorrow. The West Windsor Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance is
holding a 10mi slow bike ride leaving from the Senior Center if it doesn't rain. Another way to keep cyclists safe and also other vulnerable road users like runners and walkers is by obeying the state's 4-foot passing law. The West
Windsor Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance and several other nonprofits in the county are working to get 4-foot passing signs on roads in West Windsor and other parts of Mercer County. In addition, the West Windsor Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance offers everyone a magnet that
visually explains the law. Anybody who here who would like one, I'm happy to give you one. And if you have any questions about the law and how it affects you as a driver, please come talk to the WWPBA. We're at the farmers market every other week. Thank you.
Thank you. Is anybody else? Hi, Ann Clifton, 18 Gston Drive. I just want to let uh the mayor and council know that we WWBPA started its digital road safety campaign last month. Uh this is something the mayor had asked
us to do. Uh we sent in 21 road safety messages to the recreation department who's in charge of programming the two electronic bulletin boards. One here at the right at the municipal complex grounds and one across from High School South near the Ron Rogers Arboritum. So,
we've asked that uh messages be displayed, you know, rotated maybe every 3 weeks. So, two were put up last month. There's another two that went up earlier this week. Uh so, they deal with walking, driving, and bicycling safety. So, just uh hopefully as people are
stopped at traffic lights, they will pay attention to those signs. Thank you. Thank you. Does anyone else wish to get up and speak during public comment? Anybody else wish to get up during public
comment? Seeing none, I will close the first public comment. And now we'll go to administration comments. Uh Marina? Yes. Oh. Um before we do that, mayor, did you want to address some of these during
your um Okay. So, uh mayor will address some of the questions that were brought up uh during his comment period after Molener. Thank you. I only have uh a few announcements this evening. Brush collection is occurring in zone
three. Residential garbage collection is once per week. The public works facility does not accept household trash and the Memorial Day schedule is as follows. Monday, May 26th is Memorial
Day. Municipal offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day. There will be no garbage pickup. Monday's collection will happen Tuesday. Tuesday's garbage collection will remain
on Tuesday. There is a possibility some collections will not will continue into Wednesday. waste management, who is the township's
uh garbage hauler, um will work as diligently as possible to ensure collection is up to date by the end of the day, Friday. Trash should be placed at the curb no
later than 6:00 am on your scheduled collection day and the public works facility will be closed on Saturday March not March May 24th uh
2025. Thank you. Thank you mayor. Thanks Angela. First uh I'll answer some of the comments as I heard them. Sometimes I have hard time hearing. Please talk to the mic as if you're kissing it. Um otherwise it's hard to
hear. Um and if she can't hear it, I definitely won't hear a word. Yeah. But I took some notes. So So um first uh you spoke about uh roundabout on the other side of the bridge. Um I did talk to the
county about it. Bring it up. County loves county engineer loves roundabout. He's aware of it. He did it on purpose. I'm not traffic engineer, but I did mention to him because I travel there twice a week and you can easily go over it. Even with I have a small car, I can
still go over it and not feel it. So, I'll I'll continue to talk to him. I I wish it was much uh much higher and much more difficult to go over. So, they they are aware of it. Um you did ask about putting signs in the middle of the road.
When that road was redone, there were five or six signs put in. Unfortunately, they disappeared in a week. People I mean that sort of makes your point that people drive like crazy. So, they didn't even last a week. We we had to put signs
in the middle of the week. Um couple of um there's a budget hearing today. I'll talk about the actual budget a little later. But, um simply because they passed the budget doesn't mean the project can start tomorrow. After they pass the budget, in a month or so, they
will pass a bond ordinance. Once the bond ordinance becomes effective then the CFO can certify that the money is available and the uh and then the projects that are described in the budget can take place. So uh it's it's a
much slower process than uh private industry but that's required by law. So probably that's why most of the items included in the budget don't start till second half of the budget because that uh that's how um the the calendar works.
Um I want to thank WWPA for the public service announcements because I've always said I mean we will do whatever on our part to make road safe change signs make it road diet but uh a major part of it is developing a sense of community and driving responsibly as
it's your town and your neighborhood and you're driving on your street cuz I keep talking to the police police have undertaking um taken campaign for various different offenses um And when I ask them to keep track in a particular
week, they tell me 60 70% of people are West Windsor residents, which means it's us, our neighbors, our friends. And uh I have talked to a lot of high school seniors too. If they can educate other seniors and their parents, that would go
a long way in trying to fix some of that situation. Um um I'm happy to announce that uh the county agreed to give us a early voting location. Um we started our request a little late so they couldn't give it us
to us for primary but for the general election November we will definitely have an early voting location. I want to thank the county um executive and commissioners because I know it came down to money and they did find the money in the budget. And I want to thank
both Andre and uh Linda for helping me push it. Uh we did go to the county meeting and in the election committee meeting several times and they did know that we were serious about it and I'm I'm very glad that they approved the location and uh we should have an early
voting location in um in West Windsor. Um last time we didn't have a location. The earliest location was closer to East Windsor or Princeton. when we looked at the data, we have more voters than both those towns. More people from Westwinds have voted than both these towns. So,
there was really no reason um not to have voting location. So, I just want to thank the county for doing that. Um I'm also glad that the NJ Transit settled their strike. I was getting a lot of uh queries and requests. Um I have zero
control. Neither the governor nor the union nor transit listens to me. Uh so he knows he's laughing. Uh so I'm really glad they settled because uh at one point engine transit was uh determined to close the engine uh Princeton
junction train station. But I just want to thank uh Amtrak because they did make a lot of unscheduled stop at Princeton Junction. I do know because my daughter uh she didn't get off but she was surprised that the train stopped and a lot of people did get off. So thanks to
Amprad for making it uh uh making it possible for people to travel those days. Um this week uh we have received a lot of emails and complaints about once a day uh garbage collection. Uh that decision was made uh a while back for
budgetary reason. uh the total budget went up by significant amount and it wasn't uh financially feasible to continue the two-day collection. Now, some people have written to me, oh, it's
only $20 uh a year, $25 a year on my taxes. I'm willing to pay that. Um that is one issue. The other issue is most people don't know that we have an appropriations cap which means we can only spend x% more than what we spent
last year. Even if you're willing to pay taxes, we can't spend more than what the appropriation cap is this year because the garbage collection went up so much. We did get um waiver for approp uh from appropriation cap for that expense, but
that's not guaranteed in future years. which means not only you have to come up with $25 more to pay for that but far more important and far more painful is to figure out equal amount to cut from the budget because we always reach the appropriations gap. So that's the other
important point that people need to understand and as I know as painful as it is for some people to get used to it um the Westminster uh collection policy is still far more generous than any other town. We don't restrict one uh one
can whatever you put out uh the garbage people will take it. So I understand it will get take time to um time to get used to it but that was a necessary uh decision that we were forced to make and I did receive the comment on
the complete and green street policies. We have incorporated some of them uh not uh like paragraph 9 changes were made, paragraph 2 changes were made, some of them we are looking at it and I did talk to Francis and we decided to see how the
how it works for um couple of years and then we will come back and revisit it and make the other changes that that um that the bike and pedestrian uh suggested. We did look at it and Francis did comment on all of it.
So, and lastly, the Memorial Day parade. If anybody wants to ride in their car, they have a fancy car. We have received some requests from organizations that they want to participate, you're welcome to participate. Uh just contact the township and we will uh guide you how to
do that. So I hope to see a lot of people both on um walking and uh with their vehicles uh at the Memorial Day parade on Monday. Thank you. Thanks. Uh mayor, there were some questions from uh number of people from Burian city about
the walk we had taken with them. Uh yeah, and some of so um as far as how they can be kept informed of which items we think we'll be able to do. Yeah, but that's that that that my comment about how the budget works was in respect to
that. Once the budget is approved, we will come and I will contact them and work with them to make sure all the projects are done. Okay. So the excuse me, I'd like to make one comment. There is an item on the seed and agenda
2025 R 127. It authorizes the mayor and clerk to execute a professional services agreement with Aurora and Associates to provide professional engineering so survey and design services at Wallace
Road and the Alexander Road intersection. The concern is with site distances. Um they're going to take a look at those areas. So just wanted to bring that attention.
Yeah, that that one's that's on there. And I know we had um talked about that one before. I believe some of the ones they're talking are more like Harris and Scott. So um so should they go through you to get some update or they're
looking for a process at this point. Uh who who should they contact? Yeah, they can email mayor and Cynthia will get back to them. Cynthia generally monitors that email. Okay. Thank you.
Okay. Um, thank you, mayor. Uh, this point we're going to go to council member comments. Uh, Dan, you would like to start? Sure. Just a few little things. Um, I want to echo the mayor's um appreciation of our um
getting a early voting um site in New Jersey uh in in West Windsor specifically uh coming up for the fall election. There's not enough time to get it done for the primaries. Um, so thank you for all the folks both um who are
working working to make this happen both in front of the scenes and behind the scenes. Uh, I think it's a a great testament to the the willingness of our county commissioners uh to to make make this change for West Windsor. It costs money to do this and they put the money
up to do it. Um, also want to sort of echo sort of my support of the prioritization of crosswork crosswalk improvements on Alexander Road. I think the question from the community is just when they
talk about transparency is understanding the prioritization of the specific projects that they're advocating for. Our budget has a big chunk of money for road crosswalk pedestrian improvements and that's great. We're we will be
approving that later today. What it doesn't have is it doesn't have the specificity of exactly which streets and which road which roads and that's ultimately a decision that the administration makes in their prioritization. So, um, if as as we move forward through the year, if you can be,
um, more specific about the prioritization of which roads are going to see these changes and improvements, I think that would go a long way to providing more information to to the public. Yeah. I mean, in response to that, I mean, I'm not the one who makes
that decision. the engineering division looks at all the uh you're boss I'm their boss but I don't dictate them to choose this road or that road. It's it's done professionally based on professional input. Yeah. And so when you get to that point that kind of
information would be very valuable to the community to hear as opposed to waiting until you know a resolution gets passed. So I think yeah but um in the budget I think in our folders you'll see we have there is listed um streets and roads that will be improved under this
budget. I don't have the exact page number on on me right now. Me being I saw that but not um I take another Yeah, we can take a look at I think that's that's the kind of people say transparency. We're just looking for that. No, on the roads uh every few years we hire a outside company which
drives every road in town and ranks them one through five. That ranking is on their township website. So you can go and look at how your rank road is ranked. You may not agree with them, but that's consistently across the township by great information to have and I think
we would like I would like to see that information for other projects as well. So, it's it's just a matter of communication. Uh and finally, thank you for the to the council for um doing the pride proclamation this month even though it's
May. Pride is not until June. Um our next June meeting isn't until the 16th, which is halfway through the month. Our June schedule is a little skewed towards the last because the the last Monday of June is our last council meeting. So, I appreciate that um and
want to wait until that month. And also, um I'm very uh honored to to inform you that I've been um honored with the League of Conservation Voters Emerald Award this year, which happens to be um
given out during a ceremony on the 16th of our council meeting. Um so I will not be able to attend that council meeting as well. I would invite everybody to come to that um ceremony as well but then we would have we couldn't have a meeting here. Um so um thank you for
your patience today. Thank you Dan Sonia. Sure. Well congratulations Dan on the award. Yes we'll have to be here so um we can't attend but u we'll be there in spirit.
Um, I don't have much to say. Our young gentleman is not here, but I just wanted to congratulate Rohan Zogreer. He is um a senior at North. Um, I've seen him um be present at school for various activities and events and I think um I'm
looking forward to reading this essay which made um uh like you know him one of the finalists. Um, I want to congratulate um the Dutch Neck Presbyterian um cooperative uh nursery school for celebrating their 55th
anniversary this year. Um uh my kids went to that school and um have created they created um a really good foundation for for them in their um you know uh
academics and school life. Um I was um very happy to join them this weekend um celebrating it. Um I do remember in 2020 um we started um various events and we did one event to celebrate their 50th
anniversary and then co happened. So they waited till 5 years later to celebrate their 55th. So I just want to congratulate them. There were many uh alumni right from the students from first batch of that school were present
at this event and it was really nice to um meet everyone there. I also attended the um attitude and reverse um annual event um this past weekend um you know just um advocating for mental health
wellness and uh it was a beautiful event. Um it thank you. Yes, that that um that event for the Dutch neck was beautiful. It was very nice to put together. I enjoyed it. Martin, few comments. Uh first one to to any
Nick fans out here in the community. Um I'm not a Nick fan, but I'm an incredible incredible. They call me a basketball so I'm a basketball fan. Big basketball fan. So, anytime the New York Knicks, I work for the NBA for 8 years, so I'm very aware of the magnitude, not
only uh entertainment wise, social media, and culture- wise, but also economically when the Knicks are good, when the Knicks go far, uh is very, very important. So, if you're a basketball fan, you obviously should want the Knicks to, you know, go as far as possible, the finals, cuz it's been so long, 25 years since the Eastern
Conference Finals, obviously 1999 for the NBA uh finals that they played against San Antonio Spurs in that shortened year. And then before that was 1973 and 71. So it's been a while 73. Uh so it's been a long time since they won a championship. So I just want to
congratulate any Nick fans in the community. Also congratulations Dan on your award. Welld deserving. So very much so. Want to congratulate you as well. Uh we talk about um safety in our community continuously and the effectiveness of us paying attention as
drivers. So, as the weather is better, as it is now and gets better and better, more daylight, obviously each and every night, we have an incredible community of walkers and joggers and bike riders. So, as a community, I just want uh residents to be cognizant of that when they're driving throughout our township.
Um, obviously, we can't control individuals who do not live in the township, but for us as residents, we have to pay attention because we have a huge, huge walking community, and as the weather gets better, we'll see more of that. Um just wanted to also agree with the proclamations this evening and as we
see you know country the country and divisions that are in the country. I just want us overall to continue our awareness of uh cultural uh respect uh ethnic respect um lifestyle respect. is very very important for us as a
community because we cannot control what the nation does but we can control each other and what we do um within our with our residents with our neighbors. It's very very important uh that we respect each other, respect each other's backgrounds, cultural differences and things of that nature cuz that's uh
pretty much how unity uh gets gets grows and how unity as a community gets better. And I think if we see more of that instead of oppositionist messages, oppositionist comments, um the commonalities far out way and um as a people and as a resident as residents of
West Windsor Township, I think it'll only make us better. And it also set our generation up, the next generation up more effectively uh to grow and be more humane. And I think that also coincides I always talk about resume and we live in an incredibly intelligent academic
community and many people and many young people build their resume and we all probably have resumes and jobs and things of that nature which is typically what goes on a resume. I charge people in this community as we go forward um this has something to do with proclamations, agreements, sometimes
divisions politically. Um I charge people in our community to build a resume and put down a res put down the times that you serve, the things that you've done for others, the things you've done for your neighbor. Uh because I think that's an incredible resume to have. And many people really
focus obviously on their careers, which is incredibly important. But I also want to see people in our in our township um serve more, volunteer more, give more to others because I think that's a very very powerful resume to have because
that's a resume that last and that resume will be something that is effective to someone else's life, can be an impactful, empowering, enlightening to someone else's life. So I even the young people, I speak to young people all the time. I've been speaking for years at basketball camps and different
um social and educational uh events for kids and I always tell them build a resume that's built on humaness. Build a resume built on humanity. Build a resume built on serving your community. Um because that will far outweigh sometimes people have seven to nine jobs before
they retire. But if you're giving to people, you're helping people, being a blessing to your neighbor, being blessing to those in the community. That's also how we build strength as a community. Um, and that is it. That's all the comments I have for this evening. Thank you. Thank you, Mark.
Linda. Yeah. Good. Um, well, certainly I'm also wrote my signature on those proclamations. I'm very very proud um of our community. We're very diverse. Um, we're very inclusive and we work together. There's so many different organizations, people from different
cultures, races, um, sexual orientations and all, but but we come together. We respect one another. Um we value each other's um presence. So um I think that's part of what makes um West Windsor so unique. Um congratulation Dan
on on your award and congratulations um to Rohan. Um, coincidentally, uh, Susan, Susan, I I did bring the, um, the report, you know, from the walk that we did coincidentally tonight and and, um,
because I was going to bring that issue up, but, um, a lot has been said about that already. I I think what what the issue is that when you have the report um, like where does it go and who's going to make decisions on the on the requests um, that are being made? Maybe
every request can can be fulfilled um or or maybe not for different reasons and there might be some technical reasons why but that requires you know township engineering community development um to look at some of these issues more closely want to reduce you know speeds
there's problems with crosswalks flashing beacons and all that. So that that's going to require a um professional evaluation. So you've already heard we had talk privately few few weeks back um about the the process. So, but I think moving forward now, you
know, once the um you know, the funding is is approved is is for the administration, whoever it is, whether it's the mayor or community development director to um contact you or you know, the group and and have a conversation um
about that because I think that that's what I believe you're you're looking for, right? So, so it doesn't go into a black hole. you need you need some answers back and and um and you'll get them. So, okay. All right. Good. Um
early voting, thanks to uh County Executive Dan Benson, the county uh commissioners because they had to go through a budget process um and add money uh to the budget for the early voting location for November. Um mayor, you you had made some comments with um I
guess it's the uh county board of elections. We went to that meeting. Andrew and I went to a commissioner's meeting um and kept pushing. The entire council uh passed unanimously passed the resolution um in support and and asking for the early voting for for West
Windsor for our residents. So, that will happen this year. So, we're thankful to all of them and uh it was a a good um group effort, I should say. Right. Okay. Um All right. On a few other matters, um I attended along with Mayor Morate and
Andrea uh the grand reveal of Northwestern Mutual's newly renovated office space and it's a wonderful nicely appointed uh office at 202 Carnegie Center Drive in West Windsor. They they had invited all of us to be there. Uh
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. So, uh, my thanks for the tour and and, uh, and these small bites. Uh this past Saturday I was joined um by a large group of community
members and members of the public and others for the annual attitudes in reverse walk and memorial butterfly releasing community park and air has educated more than 200,000 young people across our country
about good mental health and also they have a specialty training program for dogs and people who wish uh to become trainers. So if if that interests you, please um contact them. Um they have a website. It's a wonderful organization
uh that is effective in youth suicide prevention. And on Saturday night, um I also went to the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church Cooperative Nursery School's 55th uh anniversary and sell and uh they had
a sil silent auction. Uh the school serves a lot of families in West Windsor and the surrounding uh communities and they educate young children in non-denominational environment um with an educational philosophy that is based on social and emotional
learning. I've known many people who have had their children um go through the program and and they were very very pleased with that and the children were happy. So, um if you're looking um for some, uh preschool activities, um check them
out. The uh let's see, um Memorial Day weekend is coming up a little bit. Seems a little bit early this year, but um next Monday we'll have our annual parade and just um we're certainly grateful to all who served and lost their lives um
in defending our democracy. So, uh, I hope to see everybody at the parade next Monday. Thank you. Thank you, Luke. I also want to, uh, ask people if you're not marching in the Memorial Day parade, please come and cheer us on. Uh,
they'll, I think there's a lot more groups this year. The clerk's office has been really trying to rev things up. There's going to be ice pops after the ceremonies. Um, the Girl Scouts will be there, I think, some Boy Scouts. uh the
uh little league uh the uh historical society is going to have their old ambulance uh actually driving through the parade. So the fire departments will be there. Um it's it's going to be a good old-fashioned appreciation for our um
fallen soldiers and our veterans parade. I'd also like to congratulate Dan on the award and um I'd also want to um remind everybody that the Revolution West Windsor 250th USA anniversary logo
contest is going on now. Designs are due on June 1st. Become a part of West Windsor history. I mean, a lot of you have seen the 225th and the logo and it was used on mugs and and uh t-shirts and all kinds of things and uh for the 250th
anniversary of the United States where we want to have a nice West Windsor Revolution logo um and that you and that could be your name uh as the designer. So, please go to the website which can be reached the historical society website learn how to submit your logo
design. Um I also appreciated the proclamations tonight. Uh I have close family members who are part of both groups. I know very well um what they went through particularly as younger
people. Um my own daughter works as um as a therapist specializing in um in in some of these issues. So um I appreciate that we are celebrating everybody in West
Windsor. Saturday was another successful attitudes in reverse event and butterfly release. AIR does an incredible job increasing mental health awareness and helping prevent suicides. We're lucky to have heir and Trish and Curtis Baker as
part of our community. Please consider getting involved in this important cause that does affect all of us. Tonight we'll be voting on the West Windsor Township budget. This is my sixth budget on council and over the years we have worked with administration to increase council involvement in
decision-making earlier in the process. We have started new traditions since that time. Council members now attend the departmental presentations to administration the prior November. The council president requests all of council to submit their budget
priorities. The priorities are compiled and the new council has a workshop discussion during a January meeting along with the mayor. This gives us influence before the budget is formally handed to council at the end of February, making the process go smoother
and more responsive. After we get the budget, council members analyze it and hold several hours long public meetings with department heads and the chief financial officer who will be presenting the budget to us tonight. Uh we do that
pretty much all during through the month of March. We get further public feedback and the budget is finally introduced. What you see tonight to be voted on for adoption is the culmination of many hours of work by the mayor's staff and council members. Thank you to everyone
for a sound budget that addresses the needs of the people of West Windsor, improves many areas, including public safety and pedestrian, bicycle, and road safety, and at the same time has no increase in municipal tax rate while actually increasing our fund balance.
I'd also like to thank the um um county for giving us this early voting location that we've been really anxious for, especially uh after last year with all the different people coming to us and asking about can they
vote and I think that this is something that's really going to be a plus in getting out the vote in West Windsor. And I also want to recognize um Allison from our clerk's office. uh she's been very instrumental in helping also get
this early voting location. Uh I know I went to two meetings uh I think one with Linder and one with the mayor of the county commissioners. By the end of it everybody was really rooting for us I think. Um, and it was a matter of money
and I'm glad they were able to uh find the money as I think I had mentioned to the um county executive that he had said that our budget represents our values and one of our values should be getting everybody uh an equal access to voting.
One example of how we maximize the use of our budget dollars and increase safety is a resolution tonight, R126, which is the contract for the new Edinburg Road resurfacing project. It is paid for partially by a grant and includes pedestrian safety improvements
on the road and sidewalk. Edinburgh Road has never had a safe, contiguous pedestrian pathway to cross Lanwan Boulevard on the east side since it was built about 40 years ago. I want to thank engineering for designing this important safety feature into this road
project along with the other improvements. While on safety, I'm pleased to say that we'll also be voting on one R134 tonight, which is a new complete and greet streets policy for West Windsor Township, recognizing the need for both environmental and safety
considerations when repairing, designing, and approving streets. I was happy to tell the planning board at their last meeting of these new requirements for developers. Thank you. And um turn it over to Allison. Do you have
announcements? Um, Memorial Day parade, of course, we said is on May 26th. Uh, ceremony starts at 11 a.m. or parade starts at 11:00 a.m. with a ceremony to follow. Um, and more information can be found, of course, on our township website. Uh, the primary election is of
course on Tuesday, June 10th. Um, on Tuesday, June 10th, the polls open at 6:00 a.m., close at 8:00 PM. Our ballot box is open located in our municipal complex here um by our senior center. Early voting starts on June 3rd and runs
through June 8th. Um early voting hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The locations for early voting are posted on our township website. Um just
a note that registered voters in Mercer County can go to any of the locations listed um for early voting locations. Um that will be for early voting only. And that's it. Thank you. Uh we're going to
go into the public hearings now. Um before we start the first public hearing, I believe John U our CFO is going to give a um a little
presentation on 2025-05. Did you want to read that first? Yep. We have 2025-05 ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and to establish a cap bank.
John. Um, good evening, Mayor and Council. Thank you. Um, John, can you get that a little closer? Pull it up a little bit. Is that better? Okay. Um, tonight before you is ordinance
255. It's the um 2025 budget approach creation cap and it serves as a financial planning tool for subsequent years operating budgets. The ordinance must be adop adopted prior to the adoption of the 2025 municipal
budget. The director of the division of local services has established that the 2025 budget shall be limited to 2.5% cap increase on the amount of the budget subject to the cap. Local government cap law provides an increase to
3.5% by ordinance, which is the ordinance before you tonight. Um, a doctrine of this ordinance permits an additional 382,64761 increase in the final appropriations and will provide us with 854,082 and 67 cents as a cap bank for
the 26/and or 27 budgets. The 1977 budget cap law requires the divisional local director to establish a cost of living. The cola established for
the current year 2025 municipal budget is 2.5%. Therefore, municipalities can only increase their previous year's final appropriations by 2 and a.5% subject to certain exceptions without utilizing the
provisions in the COLA ordinance and the prior year cap banking. The COLA ordinance is a financial planning tool for subsequent years operating budget that allows the administration and council to deal with budgetary pressures
in accordance with statute. Adoption of the COLA ordinance permits the necessary increase to appropriations up to this statutory permitted 3.5%. And more importantly allows us to bank for up to two years any unused
appropriation authority. Without this ordinance being approved, we will not be able to bank any of our appropriations. The vote to approve the cola winners requires a separate action from introduction and adoption of the annual budget. The vote on the municipal budget
determines the amount of appropriations authorized to be spent in the fiscal calendar year. If the ordinance not passed tonight, council cannot introduce the 25 budget. Um just a quick breakdown of the
actual cap bank ordinance and what it provides for next year or 2027 budgets. Coming into this year, we only had a cap of 98,000 which is very low. We like to keep between 800 and 900,000 for any emergency situations that might arise
such as uh CO. Um you know, we all went through that and we had to appropriate some emergency items and we did have over 900,000. We were fortunate enough we were able to get a lot of grants to to um offset those amounts so it didn't affect our overall tax rate, but we had
the flexibility because we were able to keep that banking. Um we started with 98,000 and be in and um early in Janu uh late January of this year the division of local government through the local finance board gave us a one-time
exemption for our garbage bid which allowed us to bring close to 400,000 in away from the cap which helped toward the 850 that were banking. And they also gave us two other exceptions. one for um workers comp
insurance which went up dramatically and liability insurance. Um I'm sure all of our insuranceances have gone up in the last two years and were no exception. Between those three items of this 854,000 close to 600,000
represents those cat bake back bank adjustments that was a one-time thing. So, we didn't have to use it this year, but those items probably will be going up next year. And this will allow us to use this amount of money for next year
because we're already starting in the negative between the garbage and the I'm sure the insurance will go up and um healthc care is probably something we're looking for another increase. We were fortunate this year that was only three and a half%. But um I don't know
where that's going. So John, just can you because I can hear um the cap the cap bank that we will be giving this year is how much? It's going to be 854,000. We started out with 98 but like I said 600,000 and it's being created because
they gave us one time exceptions and we took advantage of that when when um when you introduced this. As long as you adopt this then we'll we'll be in good shape. So we get to two years to use that. Right. We do. So, I turn this back to you if there's any questions from
council. Yeah, what I think we can do is probably open the public hearing. Then we'll do um you know a a motion and then after the motion uh council can discuss and also ask John any questions. Does that work for everybody? Hopefully. So,
you're going to need a motion to open the public? Um no, we just open the public hearing and then we have a vote when it's over. Okay. Um to close it. Um, I'm opening the public hearing only on the part of the budget that involves
the um 2025-05, which is the ordinance to exceed the municipal budget um and to establish a cap bank. Does any I just want to add one item as an example of what this really does for for the
township. Think of it like you and your your your significant other or your business partner, you create a separate bank account. And in that bank account, you can only both of you have to sign off on the check to to to use any of
this money for future emergencies. this process. If we were going to need to use any of this 800,000, the mayor and administration would have to do an special emergency appropriation which would have to come in front of council
for approval and that would require you to adopt it with a super majority they call four out of five votes. So there is a checks and balance. It's not like this is money that we can spend without approval by council. It has to work through the budget process or in a
special emergency resolution. Okay. Okay. And just for clarification, this isn't actually money. It's No, it's the um promise that we have the ability to spend money if we have it. Correct. Yes. Um is there
anybody who wishes to speak on this section 2025-05? John Okay. Uh, good evening everyone. John Church, 11 Princeton Place. I'm pleased to support the adoption of the CAPM bank ordinance this year. Uh, some of the,
uh, some people who may have been around for a while may remember that years ago, over a decade ago, there was controversy about cap banks. Uh, and one year, the cap bank actually didn't ordinance did not pass. Uh, but those times are over now. And we're living in an age of
inflation and we never know what's going to happen from year to year. The last few years have been pretty bad inflation wise. So we have to deal with this. And so I think we need this flexibility to handle uh budget emergency and other situations that may arise. So I'll have
more to say about the actual budget after when we get to that hearing, but again I'm pleased to support the adoption of this cap bank ordinance. Thank you. Thank you, John. Does anybody else wish to speak on the or this ordinance? Seeing none, I'm going to ask
for a motion to close the public hearing. So moved. Second. You get a roll call. Gwas, yes. Chvers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mando, yes. And now I'm going to ask for a motion to
adopt uh 2025-05. Salute. Second. Is there any council discussion on it or questions for John? At this point, I just want to point out that we we often sort of abbreviate what we say. So, this is an ordinance to ex
not to exceed the municipal budget, but to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limit. This is there. Yeah, we haven't even passed the budget. So, uh what what this is is the state says 2 and a half% they
give and this is nothing to do with taxes. This is just appropriations. Um, and the state gives us the two and a half% they give the council the option of raising that to three and a half% and then we get
options to uh bank which which doesn't mean banking money. It means if we don't spend the full amount now if we don't spend whatever that amount is that within the next two years that gives us a little bit of a chance to exceed the
uh cap for those two years. Okay. So it's there's no real money when it comes to the cap bank. It's just a promise for future Cong for future councils actually that they will have that option of being able to uh to spend that at this point
or for current council if that's part of the budget depending on depending on how the particular budget works that year. If I say anything wrong, John, feel free to jump in. No, no, sounds good. Sounds good. Thank you. Um can we go ahead with a roll call? Roll call vote. Gwas, yes.
Jivers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Manda. Yes. Thank you. Now, we're going to move into the budget presentation for the actual 2025 budget which um which we will open the hearing after John's presentation. Thank you. Well, you gave
a really good explanation of the process earlier, so I'm not going to repeat it. Um we did spend three three days of uh we had budget hearings with the department heads and full counsel which were open to the public and televised. It was it was over 10 hours.
We hashed out a budget which was introduced in April. This is exactly the same budget that we introduced. No changes. Uh we were not um we were self-reed this year which you already approved that resolution. Um so we're ready to go um once uh we give the
presentation and then we can have a vote and then we should have a budget um within a couple weeks. Okay. So we're going to start off with uh this is the 2025 municipal budget. on May 19th for the public
hearing. And the first chart is the total budget comparison. Uh this year's budget rep is 53,465919 which represents a 6.36% increase over the 2024 budget. That represents
$3,195,795 compared to 50,270,124 in 2024. Um the two categories, the main categories in our budgets are total salary and wages increase by $872,190 or 4.73%.
And the other part of the budget which is known as other expenses increased by 2,323,65 or 730%. The top three increases in our appropriations this year is as follows. Note principal payment is the largest increase. I want note principal of 1.4
million. And what that represents is our debt service that we start to pay down for our one-year notes. Right now, we're doing one-year notes because the bonding market is not very stable. So, um once it stabilizes, um we hope to go out to
permanent financing, but until we do that, we can do one-year notes up to 10 years. We've done it for two years now, so we're approaching our third year. By the fourth year, you're required to start making um principal payments. Um
the mayor and council has elected to start making those payments early because we did have a good year as far as revenues. So, we have appropriated $1.4 million in increase this year in in note payments. So, we're getting ahead
of that so we can have more of a level payown over the next five years versus a big jump in year four. Um the next increase is salary and wages of $872,190 and this includes the creations
of seven new positions this year to due to the growth in the township. That's two police officers, two EMTs, one fire, and two public works. I know the mayor and council has been after uh the professionals to do increase uh to
increase these areas but the as you know from the cap ordinance the last two years we had no cap. We were very fortunate to get these exceptions which is allowing us to provide these new positions. So even though the salary and wages seems like a large increase, it
represents seven new positions which uh in is the reason for a 4.73%. Uh because the average uh uh raise for everybody this year was 3.25. So the difference represents these seven new positions and the minimum wage going
up for summer employment and pool and things of that nature. So um that's the reason for the salon wages as the second largest but with that and with a zero tax increase we still are able to provide uh seven new positions uh in
different departments throughout the budget. And the third largest increase was a refuge collection. Uh just this year it's it's going up by 321,000. And that's because we elected to go once a week during the summer instead of twice. If we did not, it
would have went up about 700,000. So, uh, unfortunately, we had to cut that back because of just the economic situation that the garbage bid was. We had a an old contract that was 5 years old and our pricing was pretty
good. And in the last three years, uh, you know, we were looking at either an 89% increase or 57% increase. So, we elected the 57% increase. Um, we we're getting this cap exception this year, but next year we
will not probably get it. The state has only been generally giving you a one-year exemption to roll into your base. So, we're already in a negative position for next year for that. So, that's why that cap was very important. Um, as far next slide,
please. As far as the part department percentage of total budget, uh public safety represents the largest portion of our budget which is 20 20.69% and that includes police, EMS and
fire. The next largest percentage of our budget is statutory is how the state represents it and that includes pensions, social securities and reserve for taxes. reserve for taxes is an amount that we have to budget it for cash flows and it represents a small
amount. U we're very fortunate that we have over a 99% collection rate. The average in the state is 97. Um but for that 1% we don't collect, we have to still give the 100% of the monies for our tax levy to the county and the
schools. So we need a cash flow. So that's built into the budget. And um I just want to remind everyone that we only represent 15% of the total levy um both operating and open space. The
rest is school and county. [Music] Um, next slide is the revenue percentage total bud budget. Our total revenues increased by 3,193,000 or
6.36. Uh we did have a very good year this year for revenues and um even though we're using three more $3 million more in revenue, our uh fund balance went up by 5 million. So even though
we're using more fund balance, we still increased our remaining fund balance. uh we've had a very good year and the top three increases in revenues is surplus anticipated the three million that I spoke of interest on investments 300,000
um in the middle of 24 and we awarded the contract in the late 24 we went out for RFPs for banking and we received eight RFPs from different banks throughout the
state um And I it's happy to say that our revenues went from 900,000 to 2.6. We got a very good deal on our banking relationship compared to our old. So that our interest on investments is the second largest increase of
revenues. And the um third one is the uniform construction fees. Um we're increasing that by 200,000 this year. uh that revenue item. We brought in about $5.7 million last year, but we're only
anticipating two two million because we anticipate that to slow down a little bit this year to a little over three million. We're we're trending very well. We as of right now, we've collected over 2 million, but as you well know, we may collect the fee now, but there's a
two-year process for some of these uh big projects where we still have to go out and send guys and do inspections. So, um, but with the, um, new affordable housing round four and the added construction that's going on, I think they're going to be busy for at least
another 3 to 5 years. So our top three revenues is the number one is our local tax rate with what we call the local tax for municipal purpose and that's the local bill for we give the residents for our portion of the um
tax rate. The second largest is surplus anticipated because we've always been a very uh conservative town as far as revenues. We've always been able to generate our fund balance and to replenish it the following year so we can anticipate it the next year. And
local revenues which represent 11.74% of the total budget. Now to the nitty-gritty. The municipal tax levy this year is going to be 26,281,88849. This actually represents a slight
decrease of less than 1% of 89% or 235,958. And that's because our total assessed value of 6 bill15352,100 also decreased by 89,000 or 54 million. Um, so and the reason for assessed
values going down in 2024 is some appeals for some office complexes, but with the growth in the new construction that's coming on this year, we anticipate that figure to go back up. Um, the average residential assessment for
2025 is $525,17. um then a municipal tax rate stays the same at 0.42 cents. So we have a zero increase on the local level and a zero percentage increase. So for the average residential household of municipal taxes
of that 500,000 525,000 um a local resident pays $2,243. So, I I applaud the the mayor and council. Um, and like the mayor said earlier, we don't have a revenue problem
generally. It's the appropriation portion. Um, and um, so we have another year uh, that we do have a zero property tax rate increase. Going to turn it over to you, chair, if there's any questions. Okay.
Um, this point, does anyone want to ask questions now or we can wait until after the hearing? Um, no way. Okay. Okay. Um, I'm opening up the public hearing on the budget itself. This is for the 2025 budget
vote. Would anybody like to come up and make any comments? Please, John. Thank you again, Council President. John Church, 11 Princeton Place. Uh, just a few comments on the budget and I did circulate a memo a few weeks ago. politic council and the administration
with some specific comments. Uh the one increase that really struck me and perhaps so we can get a little bit more of an explanation our workers compensation expense workers compensation insurance expense went up quite a bit more than 22%. I don't know
whether that was due to an increase in claims for workers compensation. I don't know, maybe it's not related to that, but perhaps a little explanation would help. That that was by far the largest percentage increase that I could see. Uh
just a few more remarks. In 2023, we got a windfall of nearly $3 million from the American Rescue Plan voted on by Congress and approved by the president at that time. That has really obviously improved our own finances. We have this money that just falls down
from heaven onto us, more than almost $3 million, and that we lend out some of it and get get payments for that uh interest for loans. So, this is money that looks like it's free money, but ladies and gentlemen, this is not free money. It's added to the national debt,
which is getting to be worse and worse of a crisis all the time. We're going to have to pay for this at some some point. I had a few more comments. I guess I'm time limited on this. I in my memo I wrote about a misspelled sign that may be in process of being
corrected about engine breaking which was misspelled and we see that sign at the at Washington road where coming off of route one and also by the PN we're fixing those fixing that good thank you very much u u I also mentioned uh I
think uh we're getting a lot of new apparatus fire apparatus and police cars and so forth I'm just wondering uh whether we get any credit for tradein values for the used vehicles. I mentioned this some of these things are worth an awful lot of money if you could
sell them. The fire equipment and special especially is a lot of money. So I mentioned that and I'm just wondering if that could be accounted for. Um uh I also mentioned that it would be desirable to have a list of all our capitalized vehicles along with their
VINs and vehicle ID numbers and mileages. You could update this list annually. I know we have a lot of these capitalized vehicles out there. Be nice for the public to know uh uh what the what the mileages are. I also talked
about the Bond drive extension and uh I know we're thinking about planning on getting on doing that. I I was hoping that uh maybe uh the WS squared uh Avalon Bay uh people could actually contribute to the cost of a possible
lawn drive extension because it's really to benefit them more than anybody else. And I know there was they had money available in their off street uh road assessment program. Whether any amount of money is left for that, I don't know. Anyway, that that should be that should
be taken care of and I hope that Avalon Bay can contribute to the cost of those studies. So, thank you very much for your attention. Thank you, John. Does anyone else wish to comment in the public hearing on the
budget itself? Okay, seeing nobody, I'm going to ask for a motion to close the public hearing. So moved. Second. Roll call, please. Dawas, yes. Chvers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Stand up, yes. Thank
you. And can I get a vote on the budget? Motion to motion to adopt. Salute. Second. Okay. Uh, we'll open up to discussion. Call, please. Oh, no. We're doing We have council gets discussed. Oh, I'm sorry.
Um, is there anybody any on council? I can go down the row if you want, Dan. Any comments? I think we had a pretty lengthy process. Um I think we have answered and questioned and um got all
our answers. So it's good to see that we are able to um keep the taxes flat, municipal taxes flat. Yeah, I agree on the taxes flat. And one thing that I do note is that sometimes towns will keep the taxes flat
for a year or two by raiding the um the uh fund balance. And in this particular case, we have gone the opposite direction. We've not only kept the taxes flat, but we've actually increased the fund balance. Um and uh I think that's
rather admirable and it's probably one of them one reason why we have uh such good ratings is that we have a lot in reserve. I I just want to thank um John and his team to you know you have worked really hard to get this budget uh where
it is. Um and to answer Mr. Church's um question about um when we um get new vehicles the old vehicles I'm pretty sure we go over that in the budget process. Um, and um, we have a general philosophy. We generally keep our most
vehicles have a useful life of 5 to 10 years. We generally keep them 15 to 20 and by the time we're done with them, um, we have a bunch of them sitting right now in front of public works on the front lawn. Uh, we're getting we're really in the process now of having what they call a public auction. So, we'll be
giving you a resolution in the next probably month or two um where you approve a online auction and then we'll auction off the vehicles. The police keep the vehicles uh it goes from patrol goes to maybe detective then it rolls to
um extra duty and then once they they're to a point where they're not worth fixing, then it goes over for auction. So, we don't really trade them in because we don't really see much of a value uh for us. We just use them until um they're no longer usable. And
sometimes they can also take the lights off some of the off on the old cars and put it on the on the newer ones. They when they can do it and when they can do it, it depends when the models change and they have to get all new equipment. By the time we're done with them, they're museum pieces. Yes, they are. Uh
as far as workers comp goes, it's just the nature of the beast at the moment. Um we were very fortunate for the last before three years ago. For 10 years, we had very little increases in our insurance, but now we're getting substantial increases. We are in a self-funded GIF, which other
municipalities in mid mid Jersey, which is the the model right now. Um there are some GIFs in um North Jersey that didn't do their necessarily increases and they're having difficulties and the average increase for um most of if we
were in a private would be even larger. Um, and as far as the American Recovery Act monies, the township and the mayor, uh, I I applaud you for for appropriating that money in 2024 to be used to fund part of our
sewer improvements. So, we uh did not go to fund balance. It went to actually to fund half of our $6 million sewer improvements in in town, which was a us allowable use for that. So instead of us having to borrow, we took that money and
used it to fund part of that ordinance and we used it for something that we had to do that has a useful life of about 40 years years as opposed to just sort of giving it out to whoever might might want it. Um so so we didn't use it as a one-time revenue. There's a lot of towns
right now are having financial difficulty because they use that money to supplement their revenues as a found fund balance. Let's say we didn't do that. We used it for uh hard improvements in the capital and I want to thank you, John, for um your
direction in in keeping us safe. Well, I appreciate that that you guys, you know, listen because it's that's half the battle, you know. Linda. Yeah. Thank you, John, for your work. We we've worked together what about 17 18 years. It's been a long time even when another 15 years when I was a consultant. So,
it's about 35 years ever since you've been here. I Yeah. Well, we're going on 20 in July. There you go. Right. Um, so anyway, so as was mentioned, we had a very um open um budget process. All of
our meetings um occurred here in room A, open to the public. At the end of the meetings, uh we did take public comment if anyone uh came. Um and then they're broadcast live and then also rebroadcast. So, if anyone was interested in that, they they could at
least um watch the broadcast. Uh a few other things. I think it's a responsible budget. We have a flat tax rate for the municipal budget. Uh we've also achieved AAA bond rating uh this year and and there's that that'll assist us with
lower interest. Yes. On our interest rate, we we were rated again last no early November, late October. We will be doing another rating because we'll have to do a one-year note. So, we'll have another rating come October. Right. Good. Um I I know a lot of residents
during the year, they want to talk about bicycle and pedestrian improvements. Um and so yes, I know. Um so that amount in 2024 is just looking at the cap it's capital budget. We will get to that in a different meeting. Um, but we had spent
or budgeted 5 561,750. In 2025, the council is recommending $945,000 for that. So, we are listening. There's a lot of needs all around town in different neighborhoods. So um we we are you know trying to uh fulfill those
requests and those those and I I will add that the process is now that once this budget's adopted tonight and then um I send it to state and they approve it which will take probably another three four weeks. Um then I will I will
give you the council a draft ordinance for your review and it that will incorporate our capital budget that we we approved and that just is gives us the authority to go forward and then for you to um do any improvements or do any
those type items. You'll have to do professional service resolutions or or purchase resolutions. So it'll still come back. So really that ordinance won't go into effect probably to the end of August. So, it probably won't be till September when you'll be able to actually start planning to use these
funds. Okay. And then if we go out for bidding, that takes longer. Correct. I know we've got one bid rejection on on the um agenda tonight because not everything comes in the way you expect us. Is that correct? Yes. Is that is the
senior up for Yeah. Yeah. Okay. And street lighting. I think street lighting was also um some residents came during the year, you know, wanting to have more street lights because it is dark around town. Yeah, we did increase that budget light animal also this year. We increased it last
year and we increased it also this year. All right. And um I guess two new things was uh we budgeted some funding for the shade tree commission and the human relations council. So those were requests. Shade tree. Yeah. Shade tree. Shade tree. Yeah. Shade tree. Shade tree
commission. Yeah, I said that. Yeah. and the human relations council. No, no, no. We didn't do a separate budget for the human, but the mayor has um committed part of his budget to any of the funds that they they requested. We just showed you. Okay. All right. I thought we were
doing it. We did it another way. It was requested. We We did it another way. I just line items. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Maybe in the future. Um Yeah. I think that's
um that's it. Yeah. Oh. Oh, the only other only other only other only other only other thing I wanted to say about the new positions because we are we are growing. I mean you could see it from old Trenton Road to the train station to Route One. We are growing um with the residential growth that's coming in.
Um so two as a I think you mentioned two police officers, two EMTs, the ambulance, right? Two DPW workers and one firefighter. So, um to keep up with the amount of calls that are continuously coming in, um these this is
needed a lot. You know, I know it's been on your top uh it was the number one item on council's list for the last three years, but unfortunately, like I said earlier, we had an appropriation cap issue where it was very difficult, but we were very fortunate this year that we were able to um get those
positions in. I see I'm on fire police, so I see the calls come in um round the clock. Sometimes there's multiple calls. Um last week we had there's flooding on Washington Road and then also there was a a problem on Route 571. There's a you
know a digging issue there where they closed the road. So there there was a lot going on. But but this continues each day. All these calls around the clock. So does um there's there's a need for it's not just it's a want. It's it's a need and and DPW has has a big need,
too. I mean, they're it's not just trimming the trees and uh running the uh DPW uh place over there, but they're um out there with the snow and they're out there with the um you know, when there's
a storm. Yeah. And you know, just making Yeah. It's the first time we've increased their man power in over 10 years. So yeah, and they have a whole group that takes care of the sewers and stuff too, so you don't always see them. Mayor, did you want to have any comment
before we Yeah, thank thank you very much. Thank you for working with me for the budget. Uh John, I see your point about 3 million, but it's sillies to say no to the free money. But we did, as as John pointed
out, we used it for onetime expense. So we are not we are not dependent on it and we had two two big projects where the sewer project and then the Avalon road improvement to the circle. Uh we are responsible for our share of it. So
we had two options and we had to pay the money. Uh so we used it. We tried I tried to help the federal government. I told him buy some tea bills. He says we can't do that. Uh uh you're not allowed to do that. uh I did try to help them but all in all I
mean this is a good budget. we have increased um EMTs by two. Currently now we have um because we have increasing uh uh senior communities. So the need for EMTs is uh getting more and more. So currently now we have uh 7 to 7 uh
dedicated ambulance coverage Monday through Friday uh Monday uh 7 days a week sorry. Um eventually the plan is go to 24 hours a day uh dedicated ambulance and a dedicated uh fourperson uh fire engine. We currently do have a
fourperson fire engine. We have an ambulance between uh 7 to 7 7 days a week. Um we did have police officers. the chief will tell you it's still not enough given the increased number of uh residents and the increased time they
are required to spend on each call um because of the new regulations. So that that will have to continue increasing and um we did increase public works and one of the most uh often complaints we get is oh the
tree is not trimmed the grass is not cut. We still won't be able to give you um golf course uh type uh grass. There's just 26 square mile and we still don't have enough workers and lot more to do
than uh than workers we have. But uh thanks to John, thanks to Marina and everybody working, we do generate our share of revenue. I mean um as Andrea pointed out, we don't do zero budgets by um taking out of surplus. In fact, the
surplus was 987,000 when I became mayor in for January 2018. Uh 31st Janu December 24, the budge uh the surplus was 7,817,000.
That's a 700% increase um in surplus. So next few years we'll be okay managing that. But again as John said the building is slowing down. So uh UCCC revenue will slow down over next 2 3 years and we need to manage that. Uh we
we need to manage that well too. That's going to be a challenge. So, right. And when it comes to capital spending, uh I know DPW's come back with several labor saving uh capital requests that the c um council's been anxious to approve
because it does save uh on on labor also. So, um you know, it's a win-win when we uh use that kind of money. Okay. If anyone on council have anything more to say? If not, um, we come and we call
the roll. Good. Roll call vote. Gawas, yes. Jivers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. And yes. Thank you. And thank you, John. We've now approved the 2025 budget. Thank you very much. And u like I said, within about a month, you'll be
in a draft ordinance so you can um appropriate the uh 2025 capital budget. Okay, everybody. Thank you very much and have a good evening. Thank you. Okay, Allison, moving along to the next hearing.
Okay. 2025-03, an ordinance amending chapter 200, land use article 4, the procedures set forth for site plan approval and subdivision approval, sections 200-1, 12,13, 14, and 15 of the township
code of the township of West Windsor. Okay, I'm going to open up the hearing, the public hearing on just this ordinance. The next one is actually fairly similar to it. Um, does anybody wish to speak on this ordinance?
Hearing none, I'm going to ask for a motion to close the public hearing. Salute. Second. Roll call. Okay. Gwas, yes. Gvers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mando, yes.
Okay. And a vote, a motion to approve. A motion to adopt 2025-03. Salute. Second. Is there any council discussion on it? No. I think we've discussed this one a lot. Seeing Seeing none, can I have a roll call? Gawas,
yes. Chver, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandel, yes. 202504. 125-04, an ordinance amending chapter 200, land use, part two, article 11, the procedure set forth for site plan
approval and sub subdivision approval sections 200-47, 49,5053, and 54 of the township code of the township of West Windsor. Okay. I'm going to open the public hearing on
2025-04. Does anybody wish to speak? Seeing none, I would entertain a motion to close the public hearing. So moved. Second. Gwas, yes. Chvers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandala, yes. And can I
get a motion to adopt 2025-04? Salute. Second. Okay. Gowas. Yes. Jivers. Yes. Whitfield. Yes. And yes. Okay. Um be um this next one after you read
it, we're going to have a little presentation on 2025-06, an ordinance to amend and supplement chapter 200 land use part 5, the Princeton Junction Redevelopment Plan Regulatory Provisions, Article 34,
Land Use Controls, Section 200-268 of the Township Code of the Township of West Windsor to amend the RP9 Princeton Junction Redevelopment plan district. Okay. Well, I'm going to call up Andy Lup before we open the
public hearing. I'm going to call up Andy Lupo, who is the chair of the parking authority, who's going to give us a little bit of background on this. Thank you. Andy Lup, 47 San Marco Street, uh chairman of West Windsor Parking Authority. Uh I appreciate you
all taking the time to make this ordinance official for us. Uh what the parking authority tries to do is continually evaluate our own footprint or property to see if we can enhance the commuter experience of parking at the station. One site stood out for us which
was the bus garage. It's been sitting idle for a couple decades. It's a contaminated site and quite frankly it's somewhat of an eyesore for the township to constantly drive by that. We have some experience in cleaning up contaminated sites as you know when we
took the uh waste site uh and made turn it into Upper Vaughn uh and that's a successful project over a decade ago. We looked at this site and we thought we can take down the building, remove the tank, the oil tank that's there. We would look to turn it into about 40
parking spaces with some additional landscaping and in a small pocket park too. and we'd make this available for the township for some food truck experiences on weekends. With the development that's going on uh at Avalon, with the rebirth of the downtown
area, we thought some additional parking would be helpful. As we look at the growth outside of just that area, we think parking is still going to be at a premium at the train station. So, our thought was to try to turn this into something better for township, give some
commuters a possibly a shorter walk to the terminal. And uh for us, if you pass this, we would then be able to u repurpose the land, which would make it available for some grant money that's related to remediation of soil. So, we'd
appreciate you taking a a serious look at this and and approving this ordinance. Thank you, Andy. I'm now going to open the public hearing. So, if anybody wants to come up and speak on this um
2025-06 Dave Kimmel, 11 Scott Avenue. I was reading this um still working. Yes. Okay. Uh yeah, I understand the the purpose of the ordinance as uh Andy said and as I think
the council understands. So to use this space for different use to have a parking lot and a park which could be beneficial for different reasons. Um, I think that can be accomplished it while
also not deleting the part in kind of where it talks about the purpose of these lots and the land. Um, I'm unclear why we're proposing to delete that. We should also be considering improvements
for pedestrian and bicycle access uh along that stretch of road. Is there any discussion about why that was deleted is a question that I have. Um, and this is a general statement. Wallace Road does have bike lanes for part of it, but they
uh even though the road is wide enough currently, the stripe, the paint doesn't go all the way to 571. So, I think that's something that could be implemented pretty quickly to just uh fix that oversight. But in general, my question is why are we deleting
something that could be good for uh safety for everybody while also not affecting what the purpose of the ordinance is? Does anybody else wish to get up um and speak at the hearing? No. Then at this point, I'll
close the hearing and then we'll um we'll try to get an answer for you. Um can I have a motion to close the public hearing? So moved. Second. Garwas, yes. Gvers, yes. We yes. Whitfield, yes.
Mandel, yes. Okay. Um before we go on to council, Andy, do you have um not sure about the question, but go ahead. I'm a little puzzled. Uh what we're trying to do is just that
parking that space that's, you know, dilapidated, changing that to uh the parking lot. The walkways would still stay in place. In fact, the walkways would be somewhat enhanced from safety perspective because right now um you
really can't walk there. Uh I don't know where the bike lanes are existing on that road. Our plan is not presenting bike lanes. I just don't know that how that's impacted by what we're looking to do on on that site. Okay.
We're not adjusting the roads at this point. We're just No, the the the driveway will be formalized. Right now, Amtrak uses it a right as a right of way. We would formalize that. Um, the signage would be improved. Uh, there'll be some lighting there that doesn't
exist right now. Um, I think that area would just become safer. Uh, yeah. And obviously a better purpose because looking at it right now, there's nothing you can do there. And when more definitive plans come in, that that's a
site plan issue. um go to the planning board, all those type of things would be discussed. Well, we've had numerous TRC meetings with the township uh professionals. Um we do have a courtesy review with this with the planning
board. Um but we're open to all suggestions. Uh I'm just unaware of any bike related suggestions so far. I don't see that impacting the parking lot, but certainly open to those
conversations. I interpreted the question meaning that there might be a an existing um path now that just stops. So uh I I'm not sure how that is on the actual bus
garage property. Fair enough. Okay. Thank you, Andy. Um, is anybody have um would anybody like to at this point on council um uh make a motion to adopt
a comment? I didn't completely follow Dave's point. So, um would we be amunable to just Oh, I was going to what I was going to do was just do a motion and then we'll have a council discussion. Fine. Yeah. To so that we
can discuss it if we want. Right. Motion to adopt. Salute. Okay. Now, council discussion. Yes. So, I wasn't completely clear about. So, we all agree would be okay for Dave to maybe clarify what that
what his point was. technically reopening a public hearing in case anyone else wanted to say anything but I I mean I can I can talk about you could um I think there was some technical about the wording which I'd have to look on my computer to see what the we'd have to see what the word
whatever so I can't I mean one one of the things is I mean uh um since I became mayor I've been trying to find some use for that site I've talked to several people nothing came out because it's contaminated, doesn't look good,
and the route 64 bridge and the pending uh upgrade of that bridge makes it even more difficult. So, I was really uh thankful to parking authority for taking on the challenge and trying to make something useful of that. It's a very
small portion of that uh road. I mean, it's just very small portion. So I'm not sure adding a bike lane over just that small portion will achieve anything in there. Uh unless you do the whole Wallace road and then uh once the 571 is
done 571 the county is going to do the 571 um between Cranberry and Alexander Road. Hopefully they'll go out to bid this summer and will be done before uh early next year. uh uh if they are going to
add bike lane and and uh uh to that road once that's done if something is feasible we'll do it but just adding to that site and and our professionals have looked at it our um attorney has looked at it and this is what I mean they have had as Andy said they have had three
four meetings with the uh TRC and they have looked at it and again when it comes to the planning board if there are better suggestions we are we are open I mean it's like a um business I mean uh government government partnership. It's not a
private company trying to make money. It's all taxpayer money. It's either this pocket or his pocket. It's your pocket at the end of the day. So, okay. Well, at this point it sounds like there's some technicality in the words, but the design is pretty much made to be
a large improvement over what's there now. And if somebody was to guess mic, okay, I wasn't sure if there was something clear to me. what is being was something removed or yes it it sounded like some words were were removed from
whenever this this is a larger zone at some point so at some point there may have been some other words in that zone but I don't think it's going to wind up affecting the final design and I'm sure if it's looked at and somebody says hey
let's put some uh you know bike parking there and it looks like there you know, we want a bike rack or some other use that fits in with the rest of this that that'll be part of that design issue piece of it. So, yeah. So, it's it's
yeah, it sound it sounds more like there was some specific words for some purpose at some point and it was cleaned up and maybe there's been some misinterpretation. I guess the question is does the language in the ordinance
change inhibit some of the options that Mr. Kimmel is suggesting? I don't see anything. No and and I don't understand it. So it's sort of a you know No. See, I mean question
I don't object. I mean I've been working with the parking authority for the past two years. Um and I know the amount of conversation and detail view discussions on this and fully supportive of this. I think it's a great um it will make a
great improvement to our community. I just want to make sure I understand the point that Mr. Kimmel is making so that we don't do anything that that you found that there was something that blocked there. always come back, revisit it, and then I don't think this is avoid this is
saying no to anything that we're talking about. It just um we can make this as as pedestrian friendly as the design permits and as bicycle friendly as the design permits
and we're not really changing the roads which have their own issues there. At the time of site plan, those details could be looked at. Yeah, presented some detailed plans to the
planning board also to all of TRC and uh we didn't look to strike anything out we certainly are supportive of the bike pedestrian group and um if there's something in you know off offline if there's something specific that they're looking for they can talk to us and then
we would look to include that in the final plan. Uh so this is this should not be any type of conflict between the parking authority uh use of that land and the bike pedestrian group because you you could ride your bike anybody to
that property now when we're done it'll actually be a sidewalk. Yeah. You probably wouldn't want to. I right now there's I'm just trying to ride. So I think this this area will be cleaned up so much better that you
actually can walk or ride without being in a car. I think there just more opportunity for you to continue to work in the spirit that you've always been working in is to include um and you know talk to the community and get feedback and make adjustments as required. Absolutely. They have a suggestion. Like
I said, I don't know if they're able to speak here, but we certainly can speak and work through the final uh adjustment before the planning board. Yep. Thank you. Thank you. You have to reopen public. Well, uh actually, you're going
to There's two parts to this and I can't re have you speak now because the public hearing's closed. It's okay for him to speak again. He's he's here as a witness as the as the chair. However, what I'm trying to say is that there's a two
parts to this. So, the second part, if you want to get up ordinance, there's another ordinance referring to this. So, there will be another public hearing. So, if you want to get up and and uh make another comment, you will have that opportunity. And we do have to pass both
of these parts. Um All right. Um Okay. So, at this point, can I have, if everybody's ready here, can I make one other quick comment that by cleaning up, it's not just for parking, that
there could be events and food um trucks, different things there and and these kind of things can can help us um get a grant. Yes. Yes. I mean, that's real money. After after the ordinance is passed, um
we are able to apply for the grant. The HD SRF SRF. And one of the things we really would like to do is clean up the uh toxic mess that's there, which is not helping anybody's health, and which I don't particularly want anybody biking
there. So, um it's it seems like a like a going to be a win-win. Um all right. Anybody else before I go move on here? Um can we have a we have a motion? So, we're ready for the roll call. Roll call vote. Okay. Gawas, yes. Jivers, yes.
Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandel, yes. Thank you. Okay, next one. Next one. 2025-07, an ordinance to amend and supplement chapter 200, land use of the Princeton Junction Redevelopment Plan of the Township Code of the Township of
West Windsor by modifying the RP9 district. Okay. Uh, and they've already spoken. So, I'm going to open the public hearing on 2025-07. Yeah. Yes. Okay. Uh, oh, name and address again. Dave Kimmel, Lenn Sky Avenue. Yeah. I
was just making a I am on the West Windsor Bicycle Pedestrian Alliance. Uh, we didn't talk about this at at at our meeting, I don't think. So, I was just making more of a personal comment. Um, and I don't think there's any conflict. So, I just uh there there's no I don't
see any conflict. Uh, I was just and I want to apologize for any confusion of my comments. My comment was that I observed that the purpose of the ordinances are to create this new use which I've heard the benefits for. And
when I looked at the the materials with the meeting, you see the strike twos, the underlines, and what I was commenting on is that the part that's struck through, it says like the purpose of originally it would say something like uh these lots
are proposed to convert bus depot for a public park and uh land set aside for Wallace road improvements and pedestrian bicycle access to a crossing of the rail line at
Princeton Heightstown Road Bridge. So, what's deleted is using some land for pedestrian bicycle improvements. So, my question was why I don't think that's incompatible with what the goals are of having a parking lot and a public park.
I think that can also be a acceptable use in that zone. So, that that's the comment I was trying to make that. So, you're saying the original I don't have it in front of me and I actually don't memorize them. I know it shocks people. Um, so you're saying the original ordinance for that zoning, right, had
some words in it about uh bicycle use or something like that. And that when this was redone, it was kind of clean. It was kind of uh I didn't write it. So, but usually what happens is it's sort of made
specifically for what they're trying to do. producer was probably just cleaned up a little bit at at that point to to um specify what was being what's going to be built. So that doesn't mean that what's going to be built isn't like that
where we we specifically know more now about what's actually going to be built. Is that making sense to you Mike? Is that the way you understand it? Um, I don't have a loss as he is saying. I
think he's just saying that there was a a change. Well, I'm trying I have in front of me. So, I think on page 66 um of our package, it it there's a strike out. It says, "With land set aside for Wallace Road improvements and
pedestrian and bicycle access to a crossing of the rail line at the Princeton Heightstown Road Bridge." Is that what you you were concerned about? Yeah, it's uh deleted in both of them. So, I'm wondering why that was the case. Okay. So, that was that was probably
whatever the original use was or something saying if you were going to build something that should be set aside for for that. But they can look at the final design here and make it all work out
um without the without the specific language because now they do they actually they have an actual design that to start with. Okay. And um yeah you you haven't used your three minutes up so if you do need it. Uh so
the language is specific uh to allow for this remediation and grants to be applied for. Without this specific language, you can repurpose it, but you wouldn't be able to apply for the grants. So, we had to strike certain word. Not that we look to strike that
specifically out. Folks, can we have one conversation? We had to uh word it so that it can be memorialized so that we could apply for the appropriate grants for the remediation soil. Okay. So, basically, you did have to make it specific to that project so that we
could go ahead and apply for that remediation. Uh, it's for the grant application. Okay. And again, I mean, thanks for Linda. I'm reading it. I don't know how old that is, but it says bicycle access to a crossing of the rail line at the
Princeton Einste Bridge. In today's day and age, uh, Amtrak or NJ Transit would never let you cross that road line. I mean, if that that was the original intent. I don't that's the way I read it. the crossing of the rail line at the crossing. So that was probably when the
when the rail line was at at level with the ground that that's that's that's what it it reached with when land with land set as the the struck out portion is with the land set aside for Wallace road improvements and pedestrian
and bicycle access to a crossing of the rail line at the Princeton Heightstown road bridge. Yeah. space. It's about it. It's really part of a road project and the you know there's going
to be a major well the there is is a separate project to improve that section on 571 on Heidtown Road which is a completely separate project and the and the bridge is being done separately also. Okay. Um you we're all fine you
um okay. All right. Thanks. Um, did anyone else wish to speak in the public hearing? William Rutled, 19 Scott Avenue. Um, I believe this property is at the corner of the crossing of the bridge with
Princeton Heightstown Road. And so the purpose that Mr. Kimmel is discussing being crossed out. Being crossed out is the opportunity to use that property to enhance access to the
bridge. So by removing it, you can't add a stair. It's what it sounds like. for another ramp to get down to the let's say get down to the train station more quickly than going all the way to
Wallace. So I'm not talking about the bridge, sir. I'm talking about the property. My um I'm not talking about the bridge. Please let him finish. We're talking about the property in question. Why are
you changing the topic? Okay. Okay. Uh did do you have any more please? Again, if I'm not listening, I'll listen better. The bridge is is is by the count. It is raised about the
problem. It is not purpose of what we're doing here today to try and take Mike. Can you speak in the mic? Not our purpose here today to interfere with the county's jurisdiction on this matter. They are the ones that would
design any access to that road from the property. We don't have that jurisdiction. So, it's been struck through from the the property used to say that we could improve access to, but you're saying that's was never possible. It it because
it's it's a county design. It's a county bridge. It's a county road. the county would have to design access to the bridge, not changing the bridge, but access to it is still part of if you want to take a look at it. Here's the property. I don't know where along here you'd want to have access for bikes on
the property. That's all raised. Pedestrians could use stairs. I'm just safer, Mike. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Restage. Um, okay. At this point, what I'm sure whatever can be done on this
property to make it for one for one thing, this is a parking lot that needs to go to the train station. So, we know that we're they're going to do whatever they need to do to get to the train station. Um, so, and as far as the rest of the
design, that will be part of of the design. Well, the the part of the design there is sidewalk that will connect you to the train station. So, pedestrians will have that access and that's part of the project, right? Andy,
exactly. The back side of this property is actually owned by Amtrak. So, we only have the front part, which is where the bus garage is, and then the non-existent sidewalk now will be replaced with an actual sidewalk, and that will provide
safe passage in front of the Amtrak area and then pass the Wallace permit lot into the terminal. Okay. Is anyone else wish to speak in the public hearing? Hearing none. At this point, I am going
to close the public hearing. Can I have a motion to close the public hearing? So moved. Second. Vote. Gawas, yes. Jivers, yes. We Yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandel, yes.
Okay. Is there Can I get a motion to approve? Salute. Oh, adopt. Sorry. Adopt. Second. Thank you. Okay. Is there any more council discussion at this point or
can we um vote on the um I would like to say that while we follow well we strive to follow our procedures of allowing the public to make comments. that applies to everybody up here and
council as well and that we should refrain from interrupting people while they're speaking. We give them that time to make a public comment. We say it's not a discussion, so we shouldn't be instigating public in
conversations when they're making public comments. I think we've kind of allowed the public to make comments. um interrupt them and that's we don't we don't let them interrupt us and so we
should show the same respect to the public and not interrupt them. I agree we do not interrupt u the public. All right. Can I get a If there's no more comment, can I get a roll call vote? Gwas, yes.
Chvers, yes. Boyce, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mando, yes. Thank you. And thank you uh Andy for coming in and doing this. And thank you to the public who spoke. And I want to assure everybody that there will this will be shown at the planning board
and there will be more opportunities to give comments on the final design. All right, I believe that's it for our hearings. We want to get on to the consent agenda. Consent agenda, we have
minutes. January 15, 2025, business session as amended. January 15, 2025, close session as amended. March 24th, 2025, business session as amended. Bills and claims. Does anybody wish to pull
anything? Can I get a motion to approve? So moved. Second. Okay. Garwas, yes. Jvers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandal, yes. [Music] Okay. Moving along through this very
long list. Yeah. 2025-R120 authorizing the reappoint of Jason E. Harris as construction official and granting tenure effective June 1st, 2025. 2025-R121 authorizing the refund of a
zoning permit. 2025-R122 authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute the revised use and hold harmless agreement with Hamilton Township previously approved by resolution 2025-R098 for use of the Hamilton Police Range as an alternative training
location for the West Windsor Police Division 2020 2025-R123 granting reservation of sewer capacity for the Casper Rowing Center project PB19 19-9 block 25 lots 7 and 10
2025-R124 authorizing release of partial reimbursement of funds to Avalon Bay Communities Inc. for the project known as Princeton Junction Train Station Redevelopment PB20-15 2025-R125 authorizing the mayor and
clerk to execute a professional services agreement with Roberts Engineering Group for engineering construction administration and inspection services for the new Edinburg Road reservicing project $32,600
2025-R126 authorizing the award of contract for the new Edinburg Road reservicing project to Kyle Ki construction and authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute said contract for 1 million65,61 2025-R127 authorizing the mayor and
clerk to execute a professional services agreement with Aurora and Associates to provide professional engineering survey and design services at Wallace Road and Alexander Road intersection and Old Trenton Road and Bear Creek Boulevard intersection for
$10,500. 2025-R128 authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute amendment number one to the professional services agreement with Speasel Architectural Group, Inc. for architectural design services for the project known as West Windsor Arts
Center roof replacement for an increase of $1,623.68 68 for a total not to exceed of $11,52368. 2025-R129 authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute amendment number one to
the professional services agreement with Speasel Architectural Group, Inc. to provide architectural services for the West Windsor Arts Center mobility lift replacement project for an increase of $881.3 for a total not to exceed
$7,081.3. 2025-R130 authorizing the business administrator to purchase Duo multiffactor authentification software from SHI International Corp. under the New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Alliance contract
CK04 subcontract 24-38 with the county of Bergen 17,372 2025-R131 authorizing the rejection of bids for the project known as Senior Center Gazebo replacement
2025-R132 authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute facility use rental agreements for Princeton Tiger swim team, Hamilton Aquatics Club, Cranberry Township Recreation Camp, and Robinsville Township Recreation Camp to
use the waterworks facility 2025-R133 authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute a developers agreement between West Windsor Township and Benjamin Sites PB19-13 second amendment block 20 block 33 lot 1.02 02
2025- or R134 resolution to adopt a complete and green streets policy for West Windsor Township and 2025-R135 authorizing the business administrator to purchase new fitness
equipment and surfacing from MRC Inc. at Community Park under Educational Services Commission Co-op number 65 MCECCPS contract ESCJ2 24/25-01 for 55,1757.
Does anybody wish anything pulled? N seeing none, can I get a motion to approve? Motion to approve 2025-R1 120 through 2025-R1 135.
Second, please. Second. Roll call. Gawas, yes. Jivers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandel, yes. Okay. Introduction of ordinances. Okay. 2025- R-08. An ordinance amending and
supplementing part two general legislation of the revised general ordinances of the township of West Windsor, New Jersey, 1999, Chapter 4, Administration of Government, Section 4-37, Police Division.
Okay. Can I get a motion to introduce? So moved. Second. Can I get a second? Second. Local Gawas. Yes. Jvers. Yes. Weiss. Yes. Whitfield. Yes. Manda. Yes. Public
hearing will be June 16th, 2025. Okay. I'm now opening up for an additional public comment. Does anybody else wish to give a additional public comment? John. Good evening. Again, John Church 11
place. Uh driving through the new roundabout that's uh fortunately now in operation. We all have noticed that the road work really there has not been finished at all. Uh there's rough spots. Uh the exit from Vaughn Drive onto 571
isn't finished. It's there should be a sign there. There should be road striping. In other words, they're not anywhere near finishing the road work there. And it's it's very frustrating to the public when we drive through there. All those barrels are still there. So, if the mayor or someone can give an
update on uh what when they're expected to actually finish this road work, that would be much appreciated, I think, by all the residents. And uh thank you. And again, I want to appreciate express my appreciation for the budget work that everyone did and passed the budget. I
think it's a good budget and we'll look forward to it. All the money that you now have being expended in the correct ways. So, thank you very much. Thank you, John. Would anybody else like to say? Hello, Amber Henry 304 Cranberry Road.
Um, so thank you for approving budget for 2025. I just wanted to comment um on Rabbit Hill Road that we've have approved the design in the last budget um for the sidewalk and changes on Cranberry Road and Rabbit Hill, but they
still haven't been done. And so I don't know if that is on the radar um uh or is getting slipped down to the site or something. And then also the lighting that was approved um Con still not Conmed sorry still New York City um
PSG still hasn't done that and so also just curious about that. Um so just those two things to keep on your radar to make sure that those get done so that we can have the sidewalk improvements in the budget as planned. So thank you. Thank you. Ket made me like a deja dja
vu from my childhood. Um, okay. Does anybody else wish to get up and give public comment at this point? No. Okay. Um, I'm going to close the public comment and I'm going to ask the mayor if you can give a couple of
comments. Uh, John Per Church asked about the new roundabout. Uh, when you think the road work will be finished to start. I I will check when it will be finished. I don't know top of my head when it will be finished but they have every incentive to finish because they need to get paid. They won't be paid
until the road is done. Avalon I mean I mean we have to pay they spending more money than their share of development. So we are that's one of the two big expenses I spoke about when we got that free money. So they have every incentive
to finish that road as fast as they possibly can and they will they will start requesting cos uh this summer too and then that one drive bypass that you keep asking about is going to open too. I didn't say but I wanted to thank uh
parking authority they finished the parking lot on the other side made it level. So all we have to do is remove those barriers and you can before they put the barriers I have driven through that I can tell you it works. Okay. Um and then Amber Henry asked
about the U Rabbit Hill Road Cranberry Road sidewalk. I I don't know about the specific lights. We did some of the uh the uh some of the uh improvements uh
approved last year's budget like uh along uh Bearbrook Road and other places. They did put new lights. Uh I think um if I remember right, they were going to increase the wattage of the bulbs, not new bulbs on uh what's the crossroad.
And I will check with Francis when that's done or not. And she also asked about the Cranberry Road sidewalk. Yeah, I mean that the budget was approved, not the sidewalk design. So I will check I will check where it stands with the where it stands with the uh design work.
Yeah. Okay. Okay. Um thank you. And now we can go into um council reports um discussion. Start with Linda. Oh, the uh Shade Tree Commission will
meet next uh on Wednesday, May 28th at 6:30 p.m. in room B. Martin. Yes. Uh human relations actually met this evening. Uh the previous meeting was on Tuesday, May 6. Uh they're continuously working on the
first annual community cookout, uh which take place Saturday, June 14th from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Community Park. Uh this time they've been finalizing musical entertainment, dance groups, and a kids puppet show. They will have a workshop for cricket, bminton, baseball, and many other games available for kids
and families. Uh entrance to the event obviously is free, but there will be food trucks selling food for our residents. And the planning board will meet this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Thank you. And we will hopefully be able to announce the winner of the logo contest,
which I hope everybody enters. Um Sonia um parking authority met on May 14th. Um the NJ transit strike was discussed in length. We don't need to talk about it any further
because it's it's uh taken care of now. Um the bus depot project was discussed as well. Um and now that the ordinances have passed the the application for the HDSRF grant um would be would be able to
uh be completed. Um the TV grant application is due by July 1st. So that application was discussed. Um the Wallace um weight list is being scrubbed right now and a strategy for going back
to all permits versus current split um usage was u reviewed. So they're they're looking into that. Um then um affordable housing has not met since we met um last time. Um, as
far as emergency management, um, you everybody would have, um, seen a large, um, convoy of fire trucks this weekend in our township and, um, I think we we the firefight the fire companies did a
good job and of letting everybody know that there was no um, emergency. It was a fire drill um, practice from all over state. all the convoy came to our town to practice drafting of water supply and
um it was um a scene to see um Linda was part of that as well to help with trafficking and thing but I think we started at we started at 7 a.m. got done quarter to 1. That was Yeah, it was it
started 7:00 in the morning and went went uh but the the the convoy was practicing for last couple of weeks, but um this weekend was the the main event when everybody came together. So, um it was it was really interesting to see how
the water was uh getting drafted from ponds and creeks and Oh, yeah. Some of those tankers had one tanker had 6,000 gallons. Yeah. Water. That was a big one. Especially with with all the forest fires that we are seeing
in in recent times. I think this was a very important drill um that all our um volunteers participated in. Right. It's a lot of this is required too. Yes. Certificates, training on constantly on constant requirements from the state.
Yep. All right. That's it. Ben, uh, the board of ed met last week. It was the, uh, last meeting for this, um, school year where the, um, student council leazison did their presentation. So, it was a great sendoff for them. The entire
meeting was a grand total of 20 minutes. Wish we could be so lucky. Yeah. Um, but it was mostly just um, passing some sort of rudimentary stuff. Um, two weeks ago, the parks and wreck commission met. Um they are, you know, in full swing of um
getting the summer programs going. Uh the pool is ready for opening um shortly. Uh they are going to I think I mentioned this before, they're going to a cashless cashless model um at um at the desk. So um that's that's going to
be really popular because people come there forget that they have to bring cash and then they get upset. Yes. So there's no cashless would be so so uh and I think we mentioned this um last week they probably at this point it's
completed but there were the final phases of completing all the repaving project of the the loop a little extra there. Um so that um looks much much nicer now. I'm looking forward to jumping in. Yes. By the way, did they say anything about
uh food that they had not yet um found a vendor? One vendor that then backed out at last year. I mean, I never used it, but a lot of people that's a big thing they keep asking about. All right. Well, hopefully. Yeah. Um Dana was there. Um
and she's going to refer them to the new vendor that the school is using. Maybe they're actually pretty good. Um, okay. Uh, the environmental commission met on a May 8th. They will be reviewed and they reviewed and
endorsed the complete and green streets policy that was on today's adventure. Sorry, I'm losing my voice by our agenda. Uh, they also discussed a potential program to reduce the use of gas powered leaf blowers and review the sustainable Jersey certification
submission that was just submitted in miday. If most of the accomplishments submitted get accepted, we'll have enough to maintain silver certification, which is the highest certification. The Environmental Commission and engineering will continue to work on submitting more
accomplishments for the final July submission for this year to maximize the points. Um, are there any more administration updates? No. Seeing none, um, we're going to be going into a close session. So Allison, do you want to get a motion
to go into closed and then the second and then you'll read the um Okay. Can I get a motion to go into closed session to discuss affordable housing? So moved. Second. All right. Can we roll call? Okay. Um roll call on the motion.
Roll call vote. Oh yeah, that's a roll call. Yes. Jivers, yes. Weiss, yes. Whitfield, yes. Mandel, yes. Okay. And I'm going to read my section here. Whereas NJSA 10 col4-12 allows for a public body to go
into close session during a public meeting. And whereas the township council of of West Windsor Township has deemed it necessary to go into close session to discuss certain matters which are exempted from the public. And whereas the regular meeting of this township council will reconvene and whereas the below stated subject matter
shall be made available at such time as the issues discussed therein are resolved and its disclosure would not subvert any particular exception for convening a close session. Now therefore be resolved that the township council of the township of West Windsor will go into close session for the following reasons as outlined in NJSA
104-12 for the discussion of affordable housing and there will be no action taken when we come back from closed. Okay, we'll do that and then we'll I've never seen [Music]