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June 27, 2006

 

A Workshop Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Roxbury was held on June 27, 2006 at 1715 Route #46, Ledgewood, New Jersey at 7:30 PM.

 

OPEN PUBLIC MEETING STATEMENT

Adequate notice of this meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Roxbury was given as required by the Open Public Meetings act as follows:  Notice was faxed to the Daily Record, the Newark Star Ledger and the Roxbury Register on January 5, 2006; notice was posted on the bulletin board in the main hallway of the Municipal Building on January 5, 2006.

 

Roll Call:  Councilwoman DeFillippo, Councilmen Jim Rilee, Richard Zoschak and Mayor Schmidt.

 

Also Present:  Christopher Raths, Township Manager; Tony Bucco, Township Attorney; BettyLou DeCroce, Township Clerk

 

Absent:  Mr. Hall and Mr. Smith.

 

Mr. Ciaramella will be arriving shortly.

 

PRESENTATIONS

Mayor Schmidt read a Proclamation recognizing September 9, 2006 as Olde Suckasunny Day.  Mary Romance, Librarian for the Township was at the meeting to accept the Proclamation.

 

Mayor Schmidt amended the order of business to allow the Presentation of the Construction Department

 

NEW BUSINESS

Construction Department Presentation

Russ Brown, Construction Official was present to go over his department operations and current status of permits issued.  Mr. Brown outlined his department as follows:  Uniform Construction Code (UCC), Operations, Permits, Cost Recovery and Inspections.  Council discussed the current collections of revenue and permitting in the future with several projects that will be starting.

 

At 7:45 PM Mr. Ciaramella arrived at the meeting.

 

Mayor Schmidt amended the order of business to allow Item 6C – Letter of support 319 Grant Lake Musconetcong.  Mr. Doug Zellman was present to discuss the need for the township to support this grant.  Mr. Zellman discussed the current conditions of Lake Musconetcong and the need to harvest the lake and also dredge in certain areas that are in desperate need.  Council did agree with Mr. Zellman on the importance of maintaining the lake and looking towards the future to protect this natural resource.

 

Mr. Zoschak made a motion for the Township Manager to prepare a letter supporting the grant for Lake Musconetcong.  Mr. Rilee seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call:              Mr. Zoschak – Yes             Mr. Rilee – Yes

                        Mr. Ciaramella – Yes                  Ms. DeFillippo – Yes

                        Mayor Schmidt – Yes

 

Motion Carried 5 to 0

 

At this time Mayor Schmidt amended the order of business to the Public Portion.

 

Caroline Moeller, Roxbury Township Library Board Trustee, addressed the Council with regarding funding for the Library by the Township.  Ms. Moeller thanked the Council for their support.  Ms. Moeller discussed the March 31, 2006 correspondence, emphasizing the responsibility of the Board of Trustees of the Library.  The capital request for $23,400 was discussed and she was advised that it was denied.  Ms. Moeller stated that on May 11, 2006  the budget account status of the audit trail reflected that the funding of $23,400 was there. It was confusing for the Board of Trustees because after that the township withdrew the $23,400 from the budget.  Mr. Bucco stated that as long as Mr. Raths and Ms. Palmieri follow the attorney’s recommendation, the Trustees concerns should be addressed.

 

Marilyn Davis, Trustee addressed the Council and expressed her dismay with regard to the whole situation.  Ms. Davis stated that they met with Mr. Raths and Ms. Palmieri and thought everything was agreed upon only to find out that something else was done.  Ms. Davis felt that all the truths where not being presented properly to the Council and that is why she was at the meeting this evening.

 

Mary Romance, Librarian and Pat Jacke, Trustee addressed the Council with the same concern.

 

Jody Cullen

Succasunna

 

Ms. Cullen as a member of the Parent for Exceptional Children thanked the Council for their support for the grant that was received to allow the program to continue.

 

Robert Church

256 Eyland Avenue

Succasunna

 

Mr. Church discussed the current problem with new legislation requiring the removal of underground oil tanks and the cost to residents.  Mayor Schmidt stated that because of his  job  with a gas company he is aware  that there is funding that will be coming out around August/September to help property owners pay for the removal.

 

At this time Mayor Schmidt amended the order to business to discuss:

 

REPORTS OF COUNCIL LIAISON REPRESENTATIVES, COUNCIL COMMITTEES AND NEW BUSINESS/OLD BUSINESS:

 

  1. Procurement Policy – Being worked on by the Township Attorney
  2. Appointments

i.        Rockaway River Watershed Cabinet- 1 Member, 1-Year Term

ii.      Economic Development Committee – 1 Member, 3-year Term

iii.    Raritan Highland Compact – 2 Members

iv.    Sussex County 208 Water Quality PAC

v.      Recreation Committee – 1 Member

 

Mr. Raths stated that he thought a resignation was submitted to his office for the Planning Board and he will check with his staff to verify that.

 

Council would like these appointments to remain on the agenda.  If a Councilmember has someone they  would like to be considered for an appointment to one of these positions, they should send a resume to each Council member.

 

Councilman Zoschak discussed the current activity for the weed harvesters working in Lake Hopatcong.  Mr. Zoschak continued to advise Council that the water levels have been low even with the rain we have had.  The water table level clearly causes the weeds to grow and spread in the lake.  Mr. Zoschak continued to advise that the Lake Hopatcong Commission is up on this and will continue their efforts of eliminating as much of the weeds as they can.

 

Councilman Rilee stated that he spoke to Jack Schrier, Freeholder with regard to the MUA property by HorseShoe Lake and the Bike Trail.  Mr. Rilee stated that the MUA is not against opening the fenced area to make the Trail continuous.  Mr. Rilee stated that it would be opened shortly.

 

Councilman Rilee discussed the COAH List and discussed the fact that the Council will need to sign off on the list as soon as it’s available.  Mr. Raths stated that Mr. Stern, Township Planner is working on it now.

 

Councilman Rilee stated that he would like Mr. Raths to provide to Council  with a list of problem sites within the township with a checklist as to the current condition or activity by township inspectors.  Mr. Rilee stated that it only needed to be done every 6 months.

 

Councilman Rilee requested that the Clerk’s office request from surrounding municipalities their requirements for garage sale permits.

 

Councilwoman Kathy DeFillippo stated that with regard to garage sale permits the township and residents should be neighbor friendly.

 

Councilwoman DeFillippo also advised Council that the Economic Development Committee will be holding neighborhood meetings.

 

Councilwoman DeFillippo discussed the dedication of the Morris Canal.

 

Councilwoman DeFillippo stated that the Economic Development Committee will be meeting on June 29th.

 

Councilwoman DeFillippo stated that the Roxbury High School graduation was well attended well and she was very proud to be there.

 

Councilwoman DeFillippo discussed the railroad ties on Carey Road and stated that Gerry Roser from the County stated that they would be removed within a couple of weeks.  Ms. DeFillippo cautioned the Council on the timetable since the County gave the same promise last year and they are still there.

 

Councilman John Ciaramella requested an update on the bid package for the removal of asbestos at the DPW site.  Mr. Blood was present and stated that the bid package was out and the asbestos would be removed tomorrow.

 

Councilman Ciaramella stated that the Rotary  Club is working on the 911 Memorial and has completed the design of the plaque and the $5,000 donation has been approved to proceed.

 

Mayor Schmidt discussed the Morris Canal dedication  and concurred with Councilwoman DeFillippo that it was nice.

 

Mayor Schmidt discussed the Roxbury Township Girls Track Team success and would like a Plaque /Proclamation and would like that on the July 11th Council Meeting.

 

Councilman Zoschak stated that he did have two more items he would like to discuss.  Mr. Zoschak stated that he was advised the seawall at the State Park is being addressed by the state and that there are plans for correcting the situation.  Mr. Zoschak stated that he will keep Council up to date on the progress.

 

Councilman Zoschak reminded Mr. Raths to look into the  striping by the Roxbury Car Wash with the Department of Transportation.

 

Mr. Raths stated that he will be on vacation next week and Mike Kobylarz will be acting Manager.

 

MATTERS REQUESTED/REFERRED BY COUNCILMEMBERS, MANAGER, ATTORNEY OR CLERK

 

  1. Letter from Library Director requesting street closure for Old Suckasunny Day.
  2. Letter from Ms. Graham & Ms. Stellingwerk requesting Block Party.
  3. Letter of Support 319 Grant Lake Musconetcong.

 

Mr. Rilee made a motion to approve A & B.  Mr. Zoschak seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call:            Mr. Rilee – Yes            Mr. Zoschak – Yes

                        Mr. Ciaramella – Yes  Ms. DeFillippo _ Yes

                        Mayor Schmidt – Yes

 

Motion Carried:  5 to 0

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

April 11, 2006 – Regular Council Meeting

 

Mr. Zoschak made a motion to approve the April 11, 2006 Regular Council meeting minutes.  Mr. Rilee seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call:            Mr. Zoschak – Yes            Mr. Rilee – Yes

                        M. Ciaramella – Yes      Ms. DeFillippo – Yes

                        Mayor Schmidt – Yes

 

Motion Carried:  5 to 0

 

DRAFT ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION

None

 

INTRODUCTION OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE

None

 

HEARING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING

None

 

DRAFT RESOLUTION FOR DISCUSSION

None

 

INTRODUCTION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION

06-232

A resolution incorporating by reference herein and approving the following numbered resolutions listed on the workshop council meeting agenda for this date: 06-233, 06-234, 06-235, 06-236, 06-237, 06-238, 06-239, 06-241, 06-242, 06-243, 06-244, 06-245, 06-246.

 

Councilman Rilee made a motion to discuss and approve 06-232.  Councilman Zoschak seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call:            Mr. Rilee – Yes            Mr. Zoschak – Yes

                        Mr. Ciaramella – Yes (w 4 recusals, Chks #40397,  40400, 40401, 40402

                        Ms. DeFillippo – Yes      Mayor Schmidt – Yes

 

Motion Carried 5 to 0

 

06-233

A resolution of the Township Council of the Township of Roxbury petitioning the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders to expedite the replacement of the Carey Road Bridge

 

06-234

A resolution authorizing an application for a New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Grant.  Councilwoman DeFillippo questioned the 20% match for the Challenger Program.

 

06-235

A resolution authorizing refund of zoning permit fee monies previously deposited with the Township of Roxbury for development matters pursuant to Chapter XII (Land Use) of the Revised General Ordinances of the Township of Roxbury.

 

06-236

A resolution authorizing the release of performance guarantee posted for Right-of-way Excavation Permit No. May 0806, Majorie Drayton, 48 Mountain Road, Ledgewood, Block 7501, Lot 1.

 

 

 

06-237

A resolution authorizing the release of a performance guarantee posted for Right-of-way Excavation Permit No. May 1906, Cathy L. Magnusson, 22 Carey Road, Succasunna, Block 4403, Lot 54

 

06-238

A resolution authorizing the insertion of an item of revenue in the 2006 Budget for additional funding for Morris Tomorrow Community Foundation Grant.

 

 

06-239

A resolution rejecting the bids for 412 Mount Arlington Boulevard drainage improvements.   Councilman Ciaramella questioned why the bid was higher.  Mr. Bucco stated that he spoke to Mike Kobylarz  and pursuant to statute the bid may be rejected and the township can attempt to negotiate a contract for a lower amount. 

 

06-241

A resolution approving change order No. 2 (final) to the contract with Iron Hills Construction Company Inc. for the Evergreen Acres Water System Improvements, Production Well No. 14, Mettle Lane, Berkshire Valley.

 

06-242

A resolution authorizing the purchase and installation of communication equipment and accessories from Spectrum communication.  Councilwoman DeFillippo questioned if this was within the budget.  Mr. Raths stated that it is.

 

06-243

A resolution authorizing the award of a contract for sludge waste hauling.  Councilman Rilee questioned that the contract was up 20%.  Mr. Blood, Assistant DPW Director was present and stated because it is 2 times per day.

 

06-244

A resolution authorizing the award of a contract for vehicle paint and lettering for fire truck 205.  Councilwoman DeFillippo questioned if the cost were covered within the current budget.  Mr. Raths stated that it is.

 

06-245

A resolution authorizing the award of a contract for the removal of asbestos roofing material from the concrete block manufacturing plant.

 

06-246

A resolution authorizing payment of bills.

 

Councilman Rilee questioned check #40361 stated that it was a large amount.  Mr. Raths will check into.

 

Mayor Schmidt asked for a motion on 06-240.

 

Councilman Zoschak made a motion to approve resolution 06-240.  Mr. Ciaramella seconded the motion.

 

06-240

A resolution requested an extension of the project limits for the revised Eyland Avenue resurfacing project phase IV pursuant to the NJDOT agreement for state aid to municipality’s fiscal year 2005.

 

Roll Call:            Mr. Zoschak – Yes Mr. Ciaramella – Yes

                        Ms. DeFillippo – Yes      Mr. Rilee – Abstain

                        Mayor Schmidt – Yes

 

Motion Carried 4 to 1 abstention

 

 

 

COMMUNICATIONS

June 16, 2006

No Comments

 

June 23, 2006

#2 Correspondence from Richard Becker, Plant Manager of Tilcon New York Inc. and Joyce Watson, Public Relations Director of Tilcon New York Inc. to:

 

Richard Burnett            Douglas Lessig

Ethel Fentzlaff               Mike Petrillo

Ernest Gefert                J. Mederos

Blanca Inestroza            Alfredo Ramos

Cory Ireland                 Mary & E. Rivera

Ben Lato                      Rebecca Steuss

 

Dated June 15, 2006 RE:  Information on concerns the have been raised by the above-mentioned group about the NcNear/Tilcon Facility.  Council stated that they will speak to the individuals.

 

EXECUTIVE SESSION

06-247

A resolution of the Township Council of the Township of Roxbury, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, and authorizing conference of the Township Council with the public excluded.

 

Mr. Ciaramella made a motion to approve resolution 06-247.  Mr. Zoschak seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call:            Mr. Ciaramella – Yes                  Mr. Zoschak – Yes

                        Ms. DeFillippo – Yes                  Mr. Rilee – Yes

                        Mayor Schmidt – Yes

 

Motion Carried 5 to 0

 

AT 9:25 PM Council went into Executive Session

 

ADJOURNMENT

At  10:00 PM Councilman Rilee made a motion to adjourn the Workshop Meeting.  Councilman Zoschak seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call – All in Favor – Yes

 

Motion Carried 5 to 0

 

Submitted By:

 

 

 

BettyLou DeCroce

Township Clerk

 

MINUTES APPROVED BY COUNCIL

DATE:                        September 12, 2006

ROLL CALL:            Mr. Ciaramella – yes       Mrs. DeFillippo – yes

                                    Mr. Hall – abstain            Mayor Schmidt - yes