Minutes: September 9, 2013

The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, September 9, 2013 in the Vernon Municipal Center, 21 Church Street, Vernon, New Jersey.

Statement of Compliance

Adequate notice of this meeting had been provided to the public and the press on January 11, 2013, and was posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A. 10:4-7.

Roll Call of Members

Present were Council Members Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, and Dick Wetzel, and Council President Patrick Rizzuto. Also present were Mayor Vic Marotta, Interim Business Administrator Bill Zuckerman, and Township Attorney Kevin Kelly.

Salute to the Flag

Council President Rizzuto led the assemblage in the salute to the flag.

Moment of Silence for 9-11

Council President Rizzuto noted that the 12th anniversary of 9-11 is on Wednesday.

He spoke about that event: “So many of our fellow citizens lost their lives at Shanksville, the Pentagon, and of course the World Trade Center, that I thought it should be noted and I am asking for a moment of silence to commemorate and to remember those people who gave their lives. In effect, they gave their lives as combatants; they were entered into a war that they did not know. Certainly those people who found out about it on the aircraft that crashed at Shanksville did whatever they could to avoid having that aircraft crash into the proposed target which probably was either the White House or the Congress. So, I will ask for a moment of silence, but before that I will open the floor to any of my fellow Council Members should they wish to say anything.”

Council Member Lynch had this to say: “The events of September 11th have left a national, lasting hole in our hearts. It is appropriate and fitting that we have a moment of silence for the victims of this murderous event. We send our troops into harm’s way every day; and although the United States has cut off the head of the person that pushed this event forward, the lasting ideology continues and it’s a September 12th world that we live in now, not a September 10th world.”

Council Member Kadish noted that it was a horrible, horrible event that should never be repeated.

Council Member Dunn spoke from a veteran’s perspective: “This is probably the most traumatizing thing that I think any soldier would have to go through, and anything subsequent after that. My colleague Brian is spot on, because September 12th, a day that continues to live for all of us, is the day after. And all the days and weeks after that for all the soldiers that have deployed, all the trauma that happened after that in terms of where we were as a nation, how we thought of ourselves, there is no question that it traumatized all of us to a great deal. I would just say that it doesn’t seem like it’s 12 years—it seems like it happened yesterday. I spend a lot of time going into New York (as a lot of you know), and I see that Freedom Tower everyday before I go into the tunnel, and I hope in time it becomes the symbol of what it is intended to be. I hope in time it does that.”

The Council President offered this: Let us not forget.

(The moment of silence was held at this time.)

Proclamations

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS, Breast Cancer is a serious threat to women’s health across New Jersey and the nation, and

WHEREAS, increased public awareness of this disease, its risk factors, and its symptoms may save lives as women across New Jersey learn to recognize the warning signs of Breast Cancer; and

WHEREAS, Breast Cancer is treatable when detected early and prompt treatment can significantly reduce the suffering and deaths caused by this disease; and

WHEREAS, the Sussex County Chronic Disease Coalition and Project Self Sufficiency are organizations partnering to promote Breast Cancer awareness during the Month of October through the Susan G. Komen’s Annual Tie a Pink Ribbon Campaign; and

WHEREAS, Pink Ribbons have become an increasingly recognized sign of courage, support and hope for a cure.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the MONTH OF OCTOBER shall be proclaimed BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH in the Township of Vernon and the displaying of Pink Ribbons during the Month of October is a wonderful way to encourage citizens to stand together against this disease.

October 2013 is BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH in Vernon Township

Victor J. Marotta, Mayor
Patrick J. Rizzuto, Council President

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion approving the Breast Cancer Awareness Proclamation:
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel
All members were in favor.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Whereas, violence in the home is a problem that encompasses all racial, religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups; and

Whereas, during the month of October, local, state and national domestic violence agencies will sponsor events to promote the awareness of domestic violence; and

Whereas, community based organizations such as DASI ( Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Intervention Services) work diligently to bring attention to the issues surrounding violence in the home as well as other forms of interpersonal violence; and

Whereas, local domestic violence advocates promote education, understanding, safety and demonstrate a lack of tolerance toward domestic violence; and

Whereas, DASI is requesting the Township of Vernon to join the campaign to end interpersonal violence by placing purple ribbons in Vernon Township during the month of October.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the MONTH OF OCTOBER shall be observed as DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH in the Township of Vernon and the displaying of Purple Ribbons during the Month of October is whole-heartedly supported to bring awareness to the issues surrounding violence in the home.

October 2013 is DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH in Vernon Township

Victor J. Marotta, Mayor
Patrick J. Rizzuto, Council President

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion approving the Domestic Violence Awareness Proclamation:
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn
All members were in favor.

Public Comments

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the meeting for public comment.
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn
All were in favor.

Bob Gherry—spoke about the Flats park, clarifying what he believed was misinformation stated on the issue at the last meeting.

Krista Gherry—read a prepared statement in support of candidates Jean Murphy, Sally Rinker, and Bonnie Rubin who are running for Council.

Gary Martinsen—noted that 9-11 also impacted those volunteers who worked at Ground Zero. He questioned the amount in Resolution #13-173; the possible link to Ord. #13-15 in Resolution #13-177; and spoke in support of Ms. Mahoney relative to Resolution #13-181.

Bob Gherry—spoke out against the Vernon Vibes tapings.

Seeing no one else from the public wishing to speak, Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public comment portion of the meeting.
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn
All were in favor.

Mayor’s Comments

Mayor Marotta reported on the following items:

• Responded to Mr. Martinsen’s concerns relative to Resolution #13-177, noting that this was for a bond anticipation note. He explained that this was a “roll-over,” and that $400,000.00 had been paid off. He added that each note is only good for 12 months and must either be paid off or rolled over into a new note after each 12-month period. He stressed that this was not new money being taken.
• He advised that the monthly budget summary (to 8/31/13) was distributed to each member. He noted some concerns in revenue (i.e. state aid), but that expenditures were in good shape.
• He noted that we would be receiving bids for a new ambulance rig to replace the current one that is becoming problematic and expensive to keep in good running condition.
• He reminded the Council about the Executive Session discussion from August 15, relative to the statutory salary issues with the CFO, Assessor, Collector, and Clerk. He advised that all associated costs have been provided to correct this issue. He noted that he would be directing the Finance Office to issue payments to resolve the issue.
• He explained to the Council and the public on the process he undertook in selecting a replacement as Chief of Police once Chief Wherry retires.
  1. In July he spoke to the Sergeants to discuss issues in the Department going forward, such as manpower, strengths, weaknesses, etc.
  2. He prepared a list of questions, and distributed it to the 2 Lieutenants who were next in line.
  3. He reviewed and discussed all of this with a board of police professionals, who also conducted interviews with the 2 candidates—the Police Chiefs in Little Falls and Bloomingdale, and a N.J. Sports Exposition Authority member.
  4. He interviewed the candidates individually (himself) and asked a list of questions.
  5. Both candidates noted that they had not known of this process being done before, and felt it was a fair and thorough process.
  6. Mayor Marotta acknowledged that the final decision was very difficult, and that he had lost some sleep over the weekend, as both candidates were well qualified.
  7. He asked for the appointment of Arthur (Randy) Mills as Police Chief, effective November 1, 2013.

Resolution #13-179: Appointment of Police Chief

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to approved Resolution #13-179:
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolution #13-179 was adopted.

Resolution #13-179: Appointment of Police Chief

WHEREAS, Police Chief Roy Wherry will be retiring effective November 1, 2013; and

WHEREAS, Mayor Victor J. Marotta has interviewed candidates to fill the position of Police Chief; and

WHEREAS, Mayor Marotta of the Township of Vernon has determined that Arthur R. Mills is a qualified candidate; and

WHEREAS, the position of Police Chief has been offered to Arthur R. Mills and he has accepted.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that Arthur R. Mills is hereby appointed Police Chief for the Township of Vernon effective November 1, 2013.

Council Member Lynch noted that he was glad it had been a difficult decision, and felt the process was very professional.

Council President Rizzuto also approved of the process.

The Mayor added that this will be only the fourth Police Chief in Vernon, and then noted something about each previous Chief. He advised that the reasoning for appointing the new Chief now is so it will allow for a smooth transition during the 11/2 months until Chief Wherry retires.

Council Member Dunn felt that the Mayor had built trust throughout the Department.

Council Member Wetzel noted that his brother is a retired police officer in South Jersey and had never heard of this process in selecting a new Chief, but was very impressed.

Mayor Marotta advised that a contract for the new Chief will be brought to the Council at an upcoming meeting.

Approval of Minutes

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to approve the August 15, 2013 Executive Session minutes:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Dan Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Brian Lynch
Nays: None
Abstain: Patrick Rizzuto
The minutes from the Executive Session of August 15, 2013 were approved.

The Council President asked for a motion to approve the August 26, 2013 Regular Meeting minutes:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Dan Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Brian Lynch, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Abstain: None
The minutes from the Regular Meeting of August 26, 2013 were approved.

Consent Agenda

Council President Rizzuto gave a brief description of Resolutions #13-173 through #13-178.

Mr. Rizzuto asked for a motion to approve Resolutions #13-173 to #13-178:
Moved: Eddie Dunn
Second: Brian Lynch

Mayor Marotta asked Mr. Kelly to clarify if #13-177 would need to be approved prior to acting on using/awarding any contracts to vendors listed therein. Mr. Kelly advised that the vendors would have to be approved for purchasing goods or services before those goods or services could be awarded.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Brian Lynch, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolutions #13-173 to #13-178 were adopted.

Resolution #13-173: Authorizing the Issuance of Not Exceeding $600,000 Special Emergency Notes of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWNSHIP COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two-thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Pursuant to a resolution of The Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex (the “Township”) authorizing a special emergency appropriation in the amount of $1,000,000, finally adopted on September 12, 2011 and entitled: “Resolution making a special emergency appropriation of $1,000,000 and authorizing the issuance of not exceeding $1,000,000 special emergency notes of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, for purposes of financing such appropriation,” special emergency notes (the “Notes”) of the Township are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to the Local Budget Law of New Jersey (N.J.S.A. 40A:4-1 et seq. and, in particular, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-55) in a principal amount not exceeding $600,000 for the purpose of financing the improvement or purpose described in said resolution, including (to any extent necessary) the renewal of any special emergency notes heretofore issued therefor.

Section 2. The following matters in connection with the Notes are hereby determined:

(a) All Notes issued hereunder shall mature at such times as may be determined by the chief financial officer, interim chief financial officer or treasurer (the “Chief Financial Officer”) of the Township, provided that no Note shall mature later than one year from the date of the first Note issued hereunder unless the Township shall have paid and retired amounts of such Notes sufficient to allow it, in accordance with provisions of Section 40A:4-55 of the Local Budget Law, to renew a portion thereof beyond the first anniversary date of the first of such Notes;

(b) All Notes issued hereunder shall bear interest at such rate or rates as may be determined by the Chief Financial Officer; and

(c) The Notes shall be in the form prescribed by resolution heretofore adopted by the governing body of the Township determining the form of special emergency notes issued pursuant to the Local Budget Law, and the Notes shall be signed or sealed by the Chief Financial Officer, the Mayor and the Township Clerk in any manner permitted by law notwithstanding that said form or resolution may otherwise provide.

Section 3. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to determine all matters in connection with the Notes not determined by this or a subsequent resolution, and the Chief Financial Officer’s signature upon the Notes shall be conclusive as to such determinations.

Section 4. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to sell the Notes from time to time at public or private sale in such amounts as the Chief Financial Officer may determine at not less than par and to deliver the same from time to time to the purchasers thereof upon receipt of payment of the purchase price plus accrued interest from their dates to the date of delivery thereof and payment therefor.

Section 5. Any instrument issued pursuant to this resolution shall be a general obligation of the Township, and the Township’s faith and credit are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on said obligations and, unless otherwise paid or payment provided for, an amount sufficient for such payment shall be inserted in the budget and a tax sufficient to provide for the payment thereof shall be levied and collected.

Section 6. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to report in writing to the governing body at the meeting next succeeding the date when any sale or delivery of Notes pursuant to this resolution is made, such report to include the amount, description, interest rate and maturity of the Notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser.

Section 7. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby further authorized and directed to file a copy of this resolution, as adopted, and all other resolutions or ordinances relating to the authorization of the aforementioned special emergency appropriation with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey.

Section 8. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to do all other matters necessary, useful, convenient or desirable to accomplish the delivery of the Notes to the purchasers thereof as promptly as possible, including (i) the preparation, execution and dissemination of a Preliminary Official Statement and Final Official Statement with respect to the Notes, (ii) preparation, distribution and publication, if necessary, of a Notice of Sale with respect to the Notes, (iii) execution of a Continuing Disclosure Undertaking, with respect to the Notes in accordance with Rule 15c2-12 promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and (iv) execution of an arbitrage and use of proceeds certificate certifying that, among other things, the Township, to the extent it is empowered and allowed under applicable law, will do and perform all acts and things necessary or desirable to assure that interest paid on the Notes is not included in gross income under Section 103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

Section 9. All action heretofore taken by Township officials with respect to the sale, issuance and delivery of the Notes is hereby ratified, confirmed, adopted and approved.

Section 10. This resolution shall take effect immediately.

Resolution #13-174: Tax Overpayment—Block 230.26 Lot 17

WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey, Department of the Treasury, Division of Taxation has favorably awarded a HomeStead Credit to McGowan, John F & Jennifer Block 230.26 Lot 17 for the year 2013; and,

WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs on October 2nd, 2012, awarded McGowan, John F a 100% permanent and total disabled Veteran and the law exempts said property from taxation; and

WHEREAS, such HomeStead Credit has resulted in an overpayment of 2013 property taxes in the amount of $445.88.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that it hereby authorizes the Township Treasurer to issue a check, and the Tax Collector refund said overpayment in the amount of $445.88 for said overpayment of property taxes to McGowan, John F & Jennifer; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Tax Collector and Township Treasurer.

Resolution #13-175: Tax Overpayment—Block 104.02 Lot 13

WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey, Department of the Treasury, Division of Taxation has favorably awarded a HomeStead Credit to Esteve, Ann Marie Block 104.02 Lot 13 for the year 2013; and,

WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs on March 12th, 2012, awarded Esteve, John G a 100% permanent and total disabled Veteran and the law exempts said property from taxation; and

WHEREAS, such HomeStead Credit has resulted in an overpayment of 2013 property taxes in the amount of $474.71.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that it hereby authorizes the Township Treasurer to issue a check, and the Tax Collector refund said overpayment in the amount of $474.71 for said overpayment of property taxes to Esteve, Ann Marie; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Tax Collector and Township Treasurer.

Resolution #13-176: Tax Overpayment—Block 72 Lot 1.05

WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey, Department of the Treasury, Division of Taxation has favorably awarded a HomeStead Credit to Stephenson, Ronald & Frances Block 72 Lot 1.05 for the year 2013; and,

WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs on February 22nd, 2012, awarded Stephenson, Ronald a 100% permanent and total disabled Veteran and the law exempts said property from taxation; and

WHEREAS, such HomeStead Credit has resulted in an overpayment of 2013 property taxes in the amount of $369.76.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that it hereby authorizes the Township Treasurer to issue a check, and the Tax Collector refund said overpayment in the amount of $369.76 for said overpayment of property taxes to Stephenson, Ronald & Frances; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Tax Collector and Township Treasurer.

Resolution #13-177: Authorizing Contracts with Certain State Contract Vendors

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon may by resolution and without advertising for bids or obtaining quotations purchase any goods or services under the State Contract; and

WHEREAS, the Township has the need on a timely basis to purchase goods and services utilizing state contracts; and

WHEREAS, the Township intends to enter into contracts with the attached referenced state vendor(s) through this resolution, which shall be applicable to all the conditions of current state contracts.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, authorizes the Purchasing Agent to purchase certain goods and services from those approved state vendor(s) on the attached list, pursuant to all conditions of the individual state contracts; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the governing body of Vernon Township pursuant to NJAC 5:30-5.5(b) (the certification of available funds), which states that the Chief Finance Officer shall either certify the full maximum amount against the budget at the time a contract is awarded, or no contract amount shall be chargeable or certified until such time as the goods or services are ordered or otherwise called for prior to placing the order, and a certification of availability of funds is made by the Chief Finance Officer; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the duration of the contracts between the Township of Vernon and the referenced state vendors shall be from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption according to law.

Resolution #13-178: Authorizing the Award of Bid for Automotive and Light Duty Truck Aftermarket Parts

WHEREAS, there is a need to purchase auto and light duty truck aftermarket parts for the Township’s fleet; and

WHEREAS, the Township has issued specifications and contract documents soliciting formal bids for the necessary parts; and

WHEREAS, the Township received and opened one bid for the above mentioned items on September 5, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. in the Vernon Township Municipal Building; and

WHEREAS, the bids were received and reviewed by the Qualified Purchasing Agent and the Township Municipal Clerk for the specified bid requirements; and

WHEREAS, the QPA recommends awarding a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, Winters Auto Parts, 84 Main Street, Sussex, NJ 07461 for the items and prices described on the attached list.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Vernon Township Council, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, to award a bid to Winters Auto Parts, for the purchase of automotive and light duty truck aftermarket parts; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Vernon Township Council, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-5.5 (b), the certification of available funds, goods or services shall not be chargeable or certified until such time as the goods or services are ordered or otherwise called for prior to placing the order, and a certification of availability of funds is made by the Chief Financial Officer; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the duration of the contract between the Township of Vernon and Winters Auto Parts, will be for one (1) year with an option to renew for an additional one (1) year.

This Resolution shall take effect immediately according to law.

Mr. Rizzuto asked for a motion to approve Resolution #13-180:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Daniel Kadish

Council Member Wetzel asked about a possible conflict with election signs at this time of year. Council Member Lynch clarified that there would only be a 2-day overlap.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Brian Lynch, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolutions #13-180 was adopted.

Resolution #13-180: Authorizing Placement of Temporary Signage

WHEREAS, Sussex County Community College in Newton, New Jersey has requested permission from the Township Council to place temporary signage in the ground in front of a number of businesses to promote their Skylander 5 & 10K Challenge at the college to be held October 6, 2013; and

WHEREAS, approval has been received from the property owners, for the placement of the signage for this event; and

WHEREAS, the temporary signage requested to be displayed will be one (1) ground stake sign measuring 18" by 24" at most locations, and one (1) banner measuring 4' by 8' and will be displayed from September 9 through October 7, 2013; and

WHEREAS, the ground signs and banner do not exceed the limitations as set forth in Ordinance #12-05.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Township of Vernon, that Sussex County Community College in Newton, New Jersey is granted permission to place temporary signage, as described above, in Vernon, from September 9 through October 7, 2013, in association with their Skylander 5 & 10K Challenge event; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any and all signage placed pursuant to this Resolution shall be removed on the day following the event and will conform to the Township’s Sign Ordinance #12-05.

This Resolution will take effect immediately according to law.

Mr. Rizzuto asked for a motion to approve Resolution #13-181:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Brian Lynch, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolutions #13-181 was adopted.

Resolution #13-181: Authorizing Placement of Temporary Signage

WHEREAS, Nathalie Mahoney has requested permission from the Township Council to place a temporary sign on the A&P property on County Route 515 in Vernon to promote her “Break Their Power: Tell the Secret” 5K Run to be held September 14, 2013 (with a rain date of September 21, 2013) at 11:00am at Wawayanda State Park; and

WHEREAS, approval has been received from the property owner, for the placement of the sign for this event.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Township of Vernon, that Nathalie Mahoney is granted permission to place temporary signage, as described above, in Vernon, for her “Break Their Power: Tell the Secret” 5K Run event; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any and all signage placed pursuant to this Resolution shall be removed on the day following the event and will conform to the Township’s Sign Ordinance #12-05.

This Resolution will take effect immediately according to law.

Ordinances—Public Hearing/2nd Hearing

2nd Reading of Ordinance #13-15 by Title Only

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to adopt Ordinance #13-15 on 2nd reading by title only.
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

Open to public comments on Ordinance #13-15 only:
Motion: Daniel Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel
All were in favor.

Gary Martinsen—was concerned that Council is putting everything at Maple Grange, and wondered about utilizing the land next to the library for a playground.

Closed to Public Comments on Ordinance #13-15
Motion: Eddie Dunn
Second: Brian Lynch
All were in favor.

Council Member Wetzel noted that he would be looking to continue development at Veteran’s Field.

Mayor Marotta advised that the existing equipment at Veteran’s Field was not up to code and would be excessive to repair and/or upgrade. He noted that the safety of the surface has become a problem due to the swampland it was built on, and the basketball courts cannot be repaired or maintained. He had no problem with looking into playgrounds in other locations around town.

Council Member Kadish felt it was sad that it can’t be continued at Veteran’s Field, and that he would like to see the plans for the location at Maple Grange.

Council President Rizzuto noted that he was equally sad about Veteran’s Field but that safety was an issue and change can be valid. He noted his early work when they chose the locations for the schools by keeping them closer together. He felt that Maple Grange is a state of the art park and as such can be something to promote in order to bring everyone together. He asked for a suitable location for possible construction of a band shell, noting jazz concerts in the past that were well-attended.

The Mayor thought that was a great idea.

Council Member Wetzel noted other towns that hold concerts.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Ordinance #13-15 was adopted.

Ordinance #13-15: An Ordinance of the Township of Vernon in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, Authorizing the Purchase of Various Equipment and Repairs in, by and for the Township Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:56-1 and Appropriating Therefore the Sum of $215,000.00, and Providing that Such Sum so Appropriated Shall be Raised from the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township

2nd Reading of Ordinance #13-16 by Title Only

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to approve Ordinance #13-16 on 2nd reading by title only:
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

Open to public comments on Ordinance #13-16 only:
Motion: Dick Wetzel
Second: Daniel Kadish
All were in favor.

Gary Martinsen—was still concerned about the issue of the right-of-way being extended to private property (i.e., gas lines, telephone poles, etc.).

Closed to Public Comments on Ordinance #13-16
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn
All were in favor.

Council Member Lynch was glad that the equipment would be installed on the telephone poles, noting that underground installation may be safer from storm damage, but is longer to fix when it goes wrong due to digging, locating the equipment problem, and then fixing it.

Council Member Kadish was not worried about competitive pricing, but was concerned with cabling above-ground.

Council Member Dunn felt that it was a tremendous up-side, economically speaking.

Council President Rizzuto noted that a work session was held with the presentation by the vendor, where they stated that they would be using existing poles, but that any areas that had underground piping would be utilized to keep it underground.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Ordinance #13-16 was adopted.

Ordinance #13-16: An Ordinance Granting Non-Exclusive Permission to Co-Locate Telecommunications Equipment and Facilities within the Public Rights-of-Way in Vernon Township

Council Comments

Council Member Wetzel noted that he had a wonderful time at the Historical Society camp for youngsters. They had about 20 second, third, and fourth graders. He advised that Robert Oliver had assisted at the camp.

Council Member Lynch spoke about the texting while driving campaign, “It Can Wait” and asked all to participate.

Mr. Lynch also spoke about Ray Schamble, a McAfee Fire Fighter, who was paralyzed from the waist down when he fell through the roof and crushed his spine. Mr. Schamble is very determined to walk again. The Fire Department will be holding many fundraisers for this family, with all funds going to pay for making his home ADA accessible for him. There is a pig roast being planned at their Fire Department on September 28. Mr. Lynch asked people to donate to this family in our community.

Council Member Kadish noted that Flu Shots were scheduled at St. Francis DeSales Church on September 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Council Member Dunn added that in addition to flu vaccines, they were offering pneumococcal and tetanus/pertussis vaccines. He noted that these shots were free for Medicare patients, and were also available to anyone under 65 for a very reasonable fee, with the information posted on our website.

Mayor Marotta asked Mr. Lynch about further information for donations to McAfee Fire Department. Mr. Lynch advised that anyone wishing to donate should contact the Fire Department.

Council President Rizzuto advised that Vernon takes care of its own (now and in the past). He noted that Vernon Football starts next Thursday!

Adjournment

There being no further items of business to be conducted on the Regular Meeting agenda, a motion for Adjournment was made by Council Member Daniel Kadish. Motion seconded by Council Member Brian Lynch, with all members voting in favor.

The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was adjourned at 8:49 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan S. Nelson, RMC
Municipal Clerk

Minutes approved: September 23, 2013