YouTube video of the March 13, 2017 council meeting »

The meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 13, 2017 in the Vernon Municipal Center, 21 Church Street, Vernon, New Jersey with Council President Jean Murphy presiding.

Statement of Compliance

Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided to the public and the press on January 5, 2017, 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 Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel and Council President Jean Murphy. Also present were Mayor Harry Shortway, CFO Elke Yetter, Administrator Charles Voelker, and Township Attorney Joshua Zielinski.

Salute to the Flag

Council Member Murphy led the assemblage in the salute of the flag.

Proclamations

Council Member Rizzuto read the Proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation

WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect is a complex and ongoing problem in our society, affecting many children in Sussex County; and

WHEREAS, every child is entitled to be loved, cared for, nurtured, feel secure and be free from verbal, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, and neglect; and

WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect not only directly harm children, but also increase the likelihood of criminal behavior, substance abuse, health problems, and risky behavior;

WHEREAS the effects of child abuse are felt by communities as a whole, and need to be addressed by the entire community;

WHEREAS, effective child abuse prevention programs succeed because of partnerships among families, social service agencies, schools, religious and civic organizations, law enforcement agencies and the business community;

NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders does proclaim April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, and calls upon all citizens, community agencies, faith groups, medical facilities, and businesses to increase their participation in our efforts to support families, thereby preventing child abuse and strengthening the communities in which we live.

Public Comments

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to open the meeting to public comments.
Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel
All members voted in favor.

Lisa Anderson, asked Council if there was any progress in making a parking lot for the visitors of Appalachian Boardwalk. She added if any consideration of a shuttle bus from Pochuck Farms. Council President Murphy commented the Mayor can address the questions and suggests Ms. Anderson comment at Freeholder’s Meeting being held in Vernon on March 22, 2017.

Cherie Shortway, commented the 2017 Couch to 5K Program just began with over 60 participants and invites the Council to visit any of the weekly sessions held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. or on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. at Maple Grange Park.

Sally Rinker, read NJ Herald article from January 1, 2017 regarding government entities keeping New Year’s resolutions and transparency. Ms. Rinker states per Open Public Records Act, public documents must be made available upon request and after attending March 6, 2017 Public Council Meeting where the draft 2017 budget was discussed, she requested a copy of the document but it was denied. Ms. Rinker stated that taxpayers can only comment at second reading of the proposed budget when no more changes will be considered and input may be disregarded. Ms. Rinker thanked Council Member Ooms for actions of posting meeting videos on Vernon Taxpayers Association website and thanks Council Members Wetzel, Rizzuto, Kadish, Mayor Shortway and Mr. Voelker for respectfully giving attention to public speakers.

Seeing no one more from the public, Council President Murphy asked for a motion to close the meeting to the public. Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Sandra Ooms
All members voted in favor.

Mayor’s Report

Mayor Shortway stated the parking situation on RT 517 for the Appalachian Trail is very dangerous and Vernon is working with County and State to possibly lower speed limit or find a solution. He added the Township wants the people to come to visit Vernon but don’t want any one injured trying to cross the county road.

Mayor Shortway commented that Vernon currently has 93 full time employees and 25 part-time, which include special police, council, recycling, most who are on as-needed basis or paid by outside agencies. Regarding the status of the fleet, Mayor Shortway stated the current model-550 trucks are susceptible due to engine failure because of the diesel particulate filter gets backed up and he will be analyzing all township vehicles for cost and efficiency.

Mayor Shortway announced two appointments to the Greenway Action Advisory Committee David Calabrese and Cherie Shortway who have years of volunteer experience with in Vernon Township.

Mayor Shortway stated the Introduction of the Budget is on the agenda for Council approval and is based on their input and noted that major expenses are state mandated and out of Township control. He adds he had a very positive meeting with Remington and Vernick today about sewer service area and agreed that further discussion is needed to discuss future alternatives and possible grant opportunities from the Environmental Infrastructure Trust.

Council Member Ooms referenced the Sustainable Jersey Grant and asked where the Trail will go. Mayor Shortway explained there are many different plans identifying best areas but need to obtain easements. He added the Sustainable Jersey grant received last year will be used to write the ArtPlace application for economic sustainability which the Township has no matching funds.

Council Member Ooms asked Mayor for information about appraisals for the Faline Building. Mayor Shortway stated the proposed cost for appraisal was $3,000.00 and expressed that the Township has a limited budget and several properties to sell so he was reviewing the matter at this time.

Council Member Ooms asked if a flashing traffic light be installed for the crosswalk for the Appalachian Trail and Mr. Voelker explained the high expense and indicated he felt the best option is to lower speed limit.

Approval of Minutes

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to approve Special and Regular Meeting minutes of February 16, 2017.
Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Jean Murphy
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
Motion carried to approve Special and Regular Meeting minutes of February 16, 2017.

Items for Discussion

Gypsy Moth as a Public Nuisance

Mayor Shortway explained that the NJDEP survey of egg masses last fall found a small amount of affected acreage. Mayor Shortway indicated that he felt since Vernon Township committed a large amount of funds last year to rid the nuisance, it was logical to follow up with the spraying to alleviate the problem. The estimated cost in 2017 is $10,000 and Vernon will be reimbursed up to 50% of that amount.

Introduction of the 2017 Municipal Budget

Ms. Yetter, CFO, presented a PowerPoint to highlight the major facts about the 2017 proposed budget. She stated the taxable assessed value is $2,610,453,966.00 which is down $1.27 million. One tax point = $261,045.00. Total budget is $24,754,580.00 which is $528,000 less than 2016. Amount raised by taxes is $16,500,295.00 which is up $604,000 from 2016. Appropriations include 68.9% for municipal purposes, 15% Debt Service & Capital and 10% reserve for Uncollected Taxes. Of the 68.9%, 27% is Public Safety, 27% is Insurance and 15% is Public Works and 14% includes all other departments (Tax Collector, Assessor, Land Use, Building, Court, Legal, Boards, Technology, Administration).

Ms. Yetter explained the revenues are broken down by 66.7% current taxes, 7.2% prior year taxes, 2.4% fund balance and 9.1% State Aid. She added when the fund balance is decreased, taxes will increase and Vernon needs to work hard to regenerate the fund balance. The school and county taxes must be paid on every property even when the owner fails to pay taxes which is why Township must set a reserve. Vernon must look to sell all unused Township property to get them back on tax rolls. Ms. Yetter stated on an average price house of $216,004.00, taxpayers will see an increase of $48.75/year or $4.06/month.

Ms. Yetter stated the fund balance is like a savings bank and Vernon can only use what we realistically can regenerate. Mayor Shortway commented that the fund balance would increase dramatically if owners, such as Legends would pay what was owed and restates it is not fair that the burden of county and school taxes falls on all.

Council Member Kadish questioned about capital plan for water is included in budget. Ms. Yetter explained a capital ordinance or bond ordinance would need to come before Council for approval at later date for this purpose. Discussion occurred among Council about cost of health benefits for retirees which is contractual and cannot be renegotiated but Ms. Yetter explained going forward some contracts have been changed for future new hires. Ms. Yetter added that employees contribute up to 35% of health costs which was set by Chapter 78. Mr. Voelker stated he will provide a break down for Council of all retirees’ coverages including those with Medicare as primary.

Council Member Rizzuto stated he is reluctant to introduce budget because possibility of proposed part-time new hires becoming full-time with paid benefits and would like guarantee that won’t happen. Mayor Shortway said a trained new part-timer would only move to full-time if spot became vacant, no new positions will be created. Council Member Rizzuto asked why vehicles are being replaced with lower than 100,000 miles and feels taxes should be lowered. Mayor Shortway explained the terrain of Vernon is not conducive to high mileage in vehicles and improved maintenance schedules will help going forward and increase in revenue through water and expanded sewer service area will help budget.

Council Member Ooms asked what happens if school amount in budget is changed and how will it affect tax rate. Ms. Yetter stated that Mr. Kepnes, BA from Board of Ed provided the estimate and any change will not affect the tax rate. Ms. Ooms commented the amount to be bonded is too large and needs to be pared down with evidence to support decisions on vehicles and tracking information on which ones we are replacing.

Council Member Kadish asked if Vernon received any monetary benefit from the Watershed Moratorium Aid. Mayor Shortway stated he brought attention to the Highlands Council about the lack of compensation from state for water to protected Highlands areas like Vernon placing the burden on our taxpayers and will follow up.

Council Member Ooms asked if the proposed part-timers can be brought on as seasonal like the seasonal DPW employees. Mayor Shortway commented he will review with departments to project their needs. Further discussion by Council on needed procedures and accountability for fleet maintenance to care for Township vehicles including Fire Truck and Ambulances.

Resolution #17-70: 2017 Municipal Budget

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to approve Resolution #17-70 with public hearing to be held on April 10, 2017.
Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Sandra Ooms

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Jean Murphy
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None

Motion carried to approve Resolution #17-70. The Council noted that they may wish to make changes prior to the public hearing which was to be held on April 10, 2017.

Resolution #17-81: Self-Examination of 2017 Budget Resolution

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to approve Resolution #17-81.
Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Jean Murphy
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
Motion carried to approve Resolution #17-81.

Resolution #17-81: Self-Examination of 2017 Budget Resolution

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-78b has authorized the Local Finance Board to adopt rules that permit municipalities in sound fiscal condition to assume the responsibility, normally granted to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services, of conducting the annual budget examination; and

WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 5:30-7 was adopted by the Local Finance Board on February 11, 1997; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-7.2 through 7.5, the Township of Vernon has been declared eligible to participate in the program by the Division of Local Government Services, and the Chief Financial Officer has determined that the local government meets the necessary conditions to participate in the program for the 2017 budget year.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the governing body of the Township of Vernon that in accordance with N.J.A.C. 5:30-7.6a & 7.6b and based upon the Chief Financial Officer’s certification, the governing body has found the budget has met the following requirements:

  1. That with reference to the following items, the amounts have been calculated pursuant to law and appropriated as such in the budget:
    1. Payment of interest and debt redemption charges
    2. Deferred charges and statutory expenditures
    3. Cash deficit of preceding year
    4. Reserve for uncollected taxes
    5. Other reserves and non-disbursement items
    6. Any inclusions of amounts required for school purposes.
  2. That the provisions relating to limitation on increases of appropriations pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.2 and appropriations for exceptions to limits on appropriations found at N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.3 et seq., are fully met (complies with CAP law).
  3. That the budget is in such form, arrangement, and content as required by the Local Budget Law and N.J.A.C. 5:30-4 and 5:30-5.
  4. That pursuant to the Local Budget Law:
    1. All estimates of revenue are reasonable, accurate and correctly stated,
    2. Items of appropriation are properly set forth
    3. In itemization, form, arrangement and content, the budget will permit the exercise of the comptroller function within the municipality.
  5. The budget and associated amendments have been introduced and publicly advertised in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Local Budget Law, except that failure to meet the deadlines of N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5 shall not prevent such certification.
  6. That all other applicable statutory requirements have been fulfilled.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution will be forwarded to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services upon adoption.

Consent Agenda

Council President Murphy gave a brief explanation of Resolutions #17-71 thru #17-80.

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to approve Resolutions #17-71 thru #17-80.
Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Sandra Ooms

Council Member Rizzuto questioned why TDR grant was being cancelled and Mayor Shortway explained the Township Planners stated it was not feasible, Town Center should be mixed use and recommended not to go forward.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Jean Murphy
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None

Motion carried to approve Resolutions #17-71 thru #17-80.

Resolution #17-71: Authorizing Tax Sale Premiums to Escheat to the Township Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 54-5-33 (2011)

WHEREAS, The 2011 Tax Sale took place on September 14, 2012; and

WHEREAS, the Tax Sale Law requires that after five years if a redemption has not occurred, that the Premium be escheated to the Treasurer of the municipality.

Tax Sale Certificate #11/006, issued 09/15/12 on Block 123 Lot 24. Premium in the amount of $200.00; and

Tax Sale Certificate #11/008, issued 09/15/12 on Block 127.02 Lot 4. Premium in the amount of $3,200.00; and

Tax Sale Certificate #11/018, issued on 9/15/12 on Block 190 Lot 10.02 C0001. Premium in the amount of $3,500.00; and

Tax Sale Certificate #11/026, issued on 9/15/12 on Block 199.08 Lot 99 C3219. Premium in the amount of $2,200.00

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey, that all premiums remaining on Tax Title Liens sold at or prior to the 2011Tax Sale be hereby Escheated to the Township of Vernon Treasurer, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 54:5-33.

Resolution #17-72: Authorizing Tax Sale Premiums to Escheat to the Township Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 54-5-33 (2010)

WHEREAS, The 2010 Tax Sale took place on September 14, 2011; and

WHEREAS, the Tax Sale Law requires that after five years if a redemption has not occurred, that the Premium be escheated to the Treasurer of the municipality.

Tax Sale Certificate #10-009, issued 09/15/11 on Block 82 Lot 8 & 8.01. Premium in the amount of $100.00; and

WHEREAS Empire TFI foreclosed Tax Sale Certificate #10-009 dated 06/17/14

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey, that all premiums remaining on Tax Title Liens sold at or prior to the 2010 Tax Sale be hereby Escheated to the Township of Vernon Treasurer, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 54:5-33.

Resolution #17-73: Resolution of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, Amending Resolution 17-01 of the Township of Vernon Regarding Professional Appointments

WHEREAS, Resolution 17-01 was duly adopted by the Township Council on January 1, 2017; and

WHEREAS, said Resolution appointed the Township Attorney, Joshua Zielinski, Esq., and

WHEREAS, the law firm in which Joshua Zielinski, Esq. is a partner has changed; and

WHEREAS, the Township Council desires to amend the resolution to reflect the new firm name.

NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that Resolution 17-01 is hereby amended to identify the law firm in which Joshua Zielinski, Esq. is a partner as O’Toole, Fernandez, Weiner & Van Lieu as opposed to Mc Elroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all other aspects and provisions of Resolution 17-01 shall remain unchanged.

Resolution #17-74: Cancellation of NJ Highlands Council TDR Feasibility Grant Receivable and Appropriation Balances

WHEREAS, there is a receivable with an offsetting appropriation from the State of New Jersey Highlands Council TDR Feasibility Grant in the amount of $4,017.50.

WHEREAS, this receivable is no longer collectible as revenue.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the receivable and budget appropriations be cancelled.

Resolution #17-75: Authorizing Execution of a Contract with Crystal Springs Resort for the Vernon Township Senior Luncheon to Be Held May 5, 2017

WHEREAS, the Vernon Township Department of Community Affairs sponsors an annual Senior Luncheon; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon desires to enter into a contract with Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg, NJ, to host and cater this event; and

WHEREAS, the event is currently scheduled for May 5, 2017 at a cost not to exceed $5,000.00; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available for this purpose subject to the adoption of the 2017 Municipal Budget.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that the Mayor is authorized to sign the attached Contract with Crystal Springs Resort for the purpose of hosting and catering the Annual Senior Luncheon on May 5, 2017 at a cost not to exceed $5,000.00.

Resolution #17-76: Declaring Gypsy Moths a Public Nuisance and Authorizing Participation in the State of New Jersey Gypsy Moth Suppression Protocol

WHEREAS, the gypsy moth Lymantria dispar, has been found heavily defoliating tree and plant growth in the Township of Vernon;

WHEREAS, continued destruction of foliage may result in loss of valuable forest land and trees; and WHEREAS, the Township Council of the Township of Vernon has determined that a gypsy moth control program should be instituted with the State of New Jersey Department of Agriculture and that application for any Federal or State funds available be authorized.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the gypsy moth is declared to be a public nuisance and the protection of vegetation or plant life therefrom is deemed to be a subject matter of public welfare; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT measures deemed necessary, including entering into an agreement with the State of New Jersey for the elimination of this nuisance, in compliance with the State of New Jersey Department of Agriculture recommendations, is hereby authorized to suppress this forest and shade tree pest; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the CFO has certified that funds are available for this purpose, not to exceed $9,308 (179 acres @ $52.00/acre) subject to the adoption of the 2017 Municipal Budget; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Township will comply with the notice provisions required by N.J.S.A. 4:7-39.

Resolution #17-77: Resolution Requesting Approval of Revenue and Appropriation to Be Included in the 2017 Budget as a Revenue and Appropriation of $60,000.00

WHEREAS, Vernon Township has been awarded a $60,000.00 New Jersey Safe and Secure Communities Grant Program from New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety; Subaward Number: P-7064-17; Subaward Period: 2/7/17-2/6/18; and wishes to include in its 2017 budget for this amount as a revenue. Vernon Township will cover the cost of fringe benefits associated with the police officer for the Safe and Secure Grant.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Council of the Township of Vernon authorizes the inclusion of an item of revenue in the budget of the year 2017 in the sum of $60,000.00, which is now available as a revenue from New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a like sum of $60,000.00 is hereby appropriated under the caption Safe and Secure Grant and does accept the Subaward.

Resolution #17-78: Authorizing Contract with Microsystems-NJ, LLC, for the Year 2017 in the Amount Not to Exceed $3,000.00

WHEREAS, there exists a need for Computer services for the Township of Vernon for the Tax Assessment Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal System (CAMA); and

WHEREAS, the Municipal Assessor has determined that Microsystems-NJ, LLC, the Township’s current contractor providing Computer services for Tax Assessment/CAMA is qualified and authorized by the State of New Jersey to continue providing the Township with such services; and

WHEREAS, Vernon desires to appoint Microsystems-NJ, LLC, pursuant to a contract under the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1) (dd), which states computer software services are an exception to public bidding; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available for this purpose in the 2017 municipal budget and the value of the contract will not exceed $3,000.00.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey as follows:

  1. The Township of Vernon is authorized to engage Microsystems-NJ, LLC, for the purpose of Computer Services for Tax Assessment; and
  2. The Mayor and Township Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute a Professional Services Contract with Microsystems-NJ, LLC

This Professional Services Contract is authorized to engage Microsystems-NJ, LLC, without competitive bidding for the provision of performance of goods or services for the support or maintenance of proprietary computer hardware and software.

Resolution #17-79: Resolution Awarding a Contract to Billy Contracting & Restoration, Inc., to Replace the Roof at the Municipal Building

WHEREAS, Vernon Township issued a Request for Proposals (“RFP”) seeking a vendor to replace the roof on the municipal building; and

WHEREAS, the Contract is being awarded pursuant to a fair and open process pursuant to the New Jersey Local Unit Pay-to-Play Law, N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4, et seq.; and

WHEREAS, the responses to the RFP were opened in public and reviewed by Vernon Township officials in accordance with law, who recommend that the contract be awarded to Billy Contracting & Restoration, Inc., for an amount of $231,700.00, which consists of the base bid plus Alternate #2, as advertised; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available to pay for the Contract;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, and STATE OF NEW JERSEY, that:

  1. Billy Contracting & Restoration, Inc., is hereby awarded the contract to replace the roof on the Municipal Building, located at 21 Church Street.
  2. The contract is awarded at a cost of up to $231,700.00, which consists of the base bid plus Alternate #2.
  3. The Mayor and Township Clerk are hereby authorized to enter into an agreement with Billy Contracting & Restoration, Inc.
  4. Subject to any modifications as may be deemed necessary or appropriate by the Township Attorney, the Mayor, or the Business Administration, the base contract, consisting of the base bid plus Alternate #2 may be modified provided that any subsequent agreement do not materially alter what was specified in the RFP.

Resolution #17-80: Authorizing the Award of Contract for 2017 Alternate Court Attendant for the Municipal Court in the Amount Not to Exceed $500.00

WHEREAS, there exists a need for an Alternate Court Attendant for the Vernon Township Municipal Court for the year 2017; and

WHEREAS, Linda McDonnell, Karen Calabrese are the Township’s current independent contractor for this service and desires to continue in this capacity; and

WHEREAS, a need exists for an additional staff member and the Township would like to add Magret Rodriguez also in this capacity as the Township’s current independent contractor for this service; and

WHEREAS, Vernon Township desires to execute a contracts with Linda McDonnell, Karen Calabrese, Magret Rodriguez for a contract term of January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017, with a total contract price not to exceed $500.00; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available for this purpose subject to the adoption of the 2017 Municipal Budget.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey as follows:

  1. The Township of Vernon is authorized to execute a contract with Linda McDonnell, Karen Calabrese and Magret Rodriguez for 2017 Alternate Court Attendant for the Township’s Municipal Court.
  2. The Mayor and Municipal Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute a Contract with the above named individuals.

Introduction/1st Reading of Ordinances

Ordinance #17-04: Ordinance of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, Amending Chapter 250 of the Code of the Township of Vernon Regarding Liquor License Fees

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to introduce Ordinance #17-04 with a public hearing on March 27, 2017.
Moved: Sandra Ooms
Second: Dan Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Jean Murphy
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None

Council Member Ooms suggested that while ordinance is increasing some to the 41% rate, the fees that are at 100% rate should then be lowered to be fair. Council President Murphy explained it will take five years for the fees in this ordinance to be in effect and Council at that time can address that issue.

Motion carried to Introduce Ordinance #17-04 with a public hearing to be held on March 27, 2017.

Ordinance #17-05: An Ordinance of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey Amending and Supplementing Chapter §250 of the Township Code, Entitled “Fees and Escrows” So as to Amend and Supplement Section §250-7 Entitled “Tax Collector”

Council President Murphy asked for a motion to introduce Ordinance #17-05 with a public hearing on March 27, 2017.
Moved: Dan Kadish
Second: Sandra Ooms

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Sandra Ooms, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Jean Murphy
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
Motion carried to introduce Ordinance #17-05 with a public hearing on March 27, 2017.

Council Comments

Council Member Kadish reminded public to change batteries in their smoke detectors when changing the clocks for Daylight Savings.

Council Member Rizzuto commented on the monumental weather event that will occur this week and recommends the public keep cars off the roads so the DPW can clear the roadways and to help neighbors in need.

Council Member Ooms had no comment.

Council Member Kadish asked if the Office of Emergency Management is on alert and Mr. Voelker confirmed he has been in contact with the Vernon OEM and County coordinators if warming centers are needed.

Council President Comments

Council President Murphy referred to March 12, 2017 Edition of the NJ Sunday Herald which had 55 Sheriff Sale Notices in Sussex County of which 11 were in Vernon Township. She reminded the public that the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders will have a meeting on March 22, 2017 at the Vernon Municipal Building starting at 7:00 p.m.

Adjournment

There being no further items of business to be conducted on the agenda, a motion for Adjournment was made by Council Member Rizzuto, seconded by Council Member Wetzel with all members voting in favor.

The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was adjourned at 9:04 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Lauren Kirkman, RMC, CMR
Municipal Clerk

Minutes approved: April 10, 2017