The following agenda and minutes are an unofficial copy and for informational purposes only. Please do not rely on these minutes in making a land use application or for an application for a permit of any kind. Contact the Municipal Clerk for an official copy.
AGENDA FOR REGULAR SESSION MEETING OF
SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 AT 7:30 P.M.
1. NOTICE OF MEETING
2. ROLL CALL
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
Regular Session – August 30, 2007
Closed Session – August 30, 2007
5. TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REPORTS
6. MAYOR’S REPORT
Employee of the Month
7. PRESENTATION
8. DISCUSSION
9. PUBLIC HEARING AND FINAL ACTION ORDINANCES
10. INTRODUCTION OF NEW ORDINANCES
a) An Ordinance Amending Chapter A-226-3 of the Bridgewater Township Code
11. RESOLUTIONS
a) Providing for the Insertion of a Special Item of Revenue in the 2007 Budget Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40a:4-87 (Chapter 159, P.L. 1948) - 2007 CDBG Youth - $13,000
b) Award of Contract: Purchase of Forestry Truck
c) Award of Contract: Purchase of Vehicle Carrier
d) Award of Contract: Purchase of Four Ford Vehicles
e) Award of State Contract: Police Vehicle Accessory Packages
f) Award of State Contract: Ford Utility Truck
g) Recycling Tonnage Grant Application
h) Authorizing a Person to Person Transfer of Plenary Retail Consumption Liquor License #1806-36-016-002 from Marble Inn Inc. to Bojczuk Enterprises LLC
i) Appointment to the Library Advisory Board
j) Appointment to the Economic Development Committee
k) Waiver of Fee – The Shubanjali School of Performing Arts
l) Authorization of Firework Displays – Somerset Patriots – September 22
m) Authorizing Award of Professional Services Contracts to Van Cleef Engineering Associates for Construction Observation (Inspection) Services – 2007 Capital Projects
12. MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Members of the public wishing to address the Council on any matter will be allowed two minutes to speak, unless there are unusual circumstances.
13. REPORTS
Clerk Report – August 2007
14. CLOSED SESSION
15. ADJOURNMENT
Revised 09/13/07
MINUTES OF THE BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 COUNCIL CHAMBERS
The Township Council of the Township of Bridgewater, County of Somerset, State of New Jersey, convened in a regular session on Monday, September 17, 2007, at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers in the Municipal Annex, Bridgewater, New Jersey.
Council President Albano read the following announcement:
In compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act of New Jersey, adequate notice of this meeting was provided on January 5 and June 1, 2007, by sending written and electronic notice to the Courier News and The Reporter; posting on the Township website and posting on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building and filing with the Township Clerk.
On call of the roll the following Council members were present:
Michael P. Hsing
Allen Kurdyla
Howard V. Norgalis
Patrick Scaglione
Robert E. Albano
Also Present: Patricia Flannery, Mayor
James T. Naples, Township Administrator
Alan Grant, Township Attorney
Robert Bogart, Director of Municipal Services
Linda J. Doyle, Township Clerk
Hector A. Herrera, Deputy Township Clerk
Council President Albano led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
On the motion of Councilman Norgalis, second of Councilman Hsing, the regular session meeting minutes of August 30, 2007, was approved.
The closed session minutes of August 30, 2007 was approved.
Councilman Kurdyla reported on a first responder fire fighter Chris Spolarich who was instrumental in saving the life of his wife while she was suffering a heart attack. During his life saving efforts he was bitten by the family dog but remained composed and focused in his life saving efforts.
Councilman Norgalis reported he attended the Township September 11 Ceremonial Service held at the Municipal Building. He stated the ceremony was well attended despite the inclement weather.
Councilman Scaglione reviewed the standard operating procedure for devising Township Council minutes. Council discussed the obligation of each Council member to direct the Clerk on specific items each member would like reflected in the minutes as the minutes are formulated to include action taken and brief summaries.
Councilman Scaglione stated he would prepare and circulate a fee schedule to the other members to review and perhaps modify the costs charged for copies.
Councilman Hsing reported he attended the Governing Officials dinner. Councilman Hsing stated President of the NJ League of Municipalities Bill Drexel spoke on current and pending legislation.
Mayor Flannery presented Officer Peter Ochs as the September Employee of the Month. Mayor Flannery recognized Officer Ochs for his dedication, astute awareness and exceptional judgment he consistently exhibits as a police officer. Mayor Flannery reported Officer Ochs was called to a home invasion scene on July 30 where his actions resulted in the arrest of three armed robbery suspects.
Mayor Flannery extended an invitation to all for the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign Kick-Off Breakfast at Bradley Gardens Rescue Squad.
Mayor Flannery updated Council on the meetings with the Board of Public Utilities (BPU). She reported the discussions concern the right of way usage for the utility company regarding vegetation management rules. She added there has been public input by a citizens group led by Charles Harrison and legal input from Mr. Grant. The Township has submitted proposed rule revisions to BPU that will allow vegetation to remain in the border zone without jeopardizing electric distribution reliability.
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Introduction of Ordinances |
The clerk read the following ordinance by title:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER A-226-3 (FIRE DISTRICTS) OF THE BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP CODE
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the said pending ordinance be passed on first reading and advertised as required by statute fixing the 1st day of October 2007, at 7:30 p.m. prevailing time on said day as the time and the Bridgewater Township Municipal Annex at 505 Route 202-206 North in said Township as the place for hearing and final action; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk shall forthwith post on the bulletin board in the Township Municipal Building at 700 Garretson Road, a true copy of said ordinance and make copies available to members of the general public and spread the same upon the minutes of the meeting.
Council further discussed the intent of the ordinance is to memorialize the distinction and history of Bridgewater Fire District #3 and remove any reference as the Green Knoll Fire District from the code book and fire district maps.
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, second by Councilman Kurdyla, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-228 is appended to the official minutes.
PROVIDING FOR THE INSERTION OF A SPECIAL ITEM OF REVENUE IN THE 2007 BUDGET PURSUANT TO N.J.S.A. 40A:4-87 (CHAPTER 159, P.L. 1948) – 2007 CDBG YOUTH - $13,000
Mr. Naples stated the grant continues funding for the Bridgewater Youth Development Program for a drop in center for youths, ages 12-18 held twice a week at Bradley Garden and Adamsville School.
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, second by Councilman Hsing, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-229 is appended to the official minutes.
AWARD OF CONTRACT: PURCHASE OF FORESTRY TRUCK
Mr. Naples stated the forestry (bucket) truck vehicle will be used throughout the Township to trim, and cut trees, change lights at the parks and cut back brush and other growth. The Purchasing Agent and Superintendent of Public Works recommend the award to Timmerman Corporation in an amount not to exceed $191,100.
AWARD OF CONTRACT: PURCHASE OF VEHICLE CARRIER
Mr. Naples stated the vehicle will be used to tow and otherwise transport vehicles to and from the public works repair garage, which will be remote from the police and administration building. The Purchasing Agent and Superintendent of Public Works recommend the award to Brian Hoskins Ford in an amount not to exceed $87,090.
AWARD OF CONTRACT: PURCHASE OF FOUR FORD VEHICLES
Mr. Naples stated the four vehicles (three 2008 Ford Focuses and one 2007 Fusion) will be used by the Engineering, Health and Fire Code department. The Purchasing Agent and Superintendent of Public Works recommend the award to Miller Ford in an amount not to exceed $52,924.14.
AWARD OF STATE CONTRACT: POLICE VEHICLE ACCESSORY PACKAGES
Mr. Naples stated the vehicle accessory packages will be used for audible and visual emergency signal system for police cars. The Purchasing Agent and Superintendent of Public Works recommend the award to General Sales Administration t/a Major Police Supply in an amount not to exceed $34,538.22.
AWARD OF STATE CONTRACT: FORD UTILITY TRUCK
Mr. Naples stated the vehicle will be used to plow snow and perform various functions throughout the Township. The Purchasing Agent and Superintendent of Public Works recommend the award to Princeton Nassau Conover Ford in an amount not to exceed $45,438.
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, seconded by Councilman Hsing, Council was in consensus to move the foregoing resolutions listed on the agenda as 11 B-F in a consent roll call vote.
On motion of Councilman Hsing, second of Councilman Kurdyla, the foregoing resolutions were approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTIONS WERE APPROVED.
A copy of resolutions #07-09-17-230 through #07-09-17-234 are appended to the official minutes.
RECYCLING TONNAGE GRANT APPLICATION
Mr. Naples stated this resolution authorizes a tonnage grant application to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. He added Environmental Officer John Falcone will be designated the Recycling Coordinator on behalf of the Township.
Councilman Hsing requested Administration contact the Bridgewater-Raritan Board of Education to confirm they are recycling throughout the school system.
On motion of Councilman Scaglione, second by Councilman Norgalis, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-235 is appended to the official minutes.
AUTHORIZING A PERSON TO PERSON TRANSFER OF PLENARY RETAIL CONSUMPTION LIQUOR LICENSE #1806-36-016-002 FROM MARBLE INN INC. TO BOJCZUK ENTERPRISES LLC
Ms. Doyle informed Council this transfer was a corporate structure. Mae and Mykola Bojczuk passed away and the corporation was being retained in the family. Ms. Doyle added the application has been forwarded to the State Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission and the investigation was completed by the Bridgewater Police department.
On motion of Councilman Kurdyla, second by Councilman Scaglione, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-236 is appended to the official minutes.
APPOINTMENT TO THE LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD
Mr. Naples stated Mayor Flannery recommends the appointments of Joseph J. Lifrieri and Barbara Norris to the Library Advisory Board for terms expiring December 31, 2008.
Council President Albano recognized Joseph Lifrieri who was present at the meeting.
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, second by Councilman Scaglione, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-237 is appended to the official minutes
APPOINTMENT TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Mr. Naples stated Mayor Flannery recommends the appointments of Marc D. Steinberg and Glenn E. Petillo to the Economic Development Committee for terms expiring December 31, 2008.
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, second by Councilman Kurdyla, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-238 is appended to the official minutes
WAIVER OF FEE – THE SHUBANJALI SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS
Council discussed the request for the waiver of fees from the Shubanjali School of Performing Arts. Council focused on the non-profits organizational contributions or benefits to the Township and or Somerset County.
Council was in consensus the Shubanjali School met the criteria to waive the fire permit fee in the amount of $50.
On motion of Councilman Scaglione, second by Councilman Kurdyla, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-239 is appended to the official minutes
AUTHORIZATION OF FIREWORK DISPLAYS – SOMERSET PATRIOTS – SEPTEMBER 22
Council discussed the additional firework display request. Mr. Naples explained the firework display would only be considered if the team advanced to the second round of the play offs.
On motion of Councilman Kurdyla, second by Councilman Hsing, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-240 is appended to the official minutes
AUTHORIZING AWARD OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACTS TO VAN CLEEF ENGINEERING ASSOCIATES FOR CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATION (INSPECTION) SERVICES – 2007 CAPITAL PROJECTS
Mr. Bogart stated there is a need for professional engineering services for construction inspections for the 2007 Capital Projects. Mr. Bogart recommends the award to Van Cleef Engineering Associates at a rate of $80 per hour not to exceed $120,000.
On motion of Councilman Kurdyla, second by Councilman Norgalis, the resolution was approved. The vote was as follows:
Councilman Hsing Aye
Councilman Kurdyla Aye
Councilman Norgalis Aye
Councilman Scaglione Aye
Council President Albano Aye
THE RESOLUTION WAS APPROVED.
A copy of resolution #07-09-17-241 is appended to the official minutes
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, second of Councilman Hsing, the meeting was opened to the public.
Patricia Sarafino, 26 Red Oak Way, distributed photographs and a petition for a complaint of a commercial storage container located on a neighboring property.
Council discussed the storage container in connection with the property maintenance/outdoor storage ordinances, specifically the accessory structure requirements.
Mr. Bogart updated Council on the current status of the container. It is understood that a permit had already been approved by the building department authorizing the container to be moved within the building envelope and set on a foundation making it an accessory structure. Council was in consensus to have Mr. Grant review the ordinances and assess the Township’s liability on rescinding an active permit.
Tom Nesbitt, 14 Glenwood Terrace, distributed copies of his Eagle Scout project to Council. Mr. Nesbitt explained the Eagle Scout project consisted of revitalizing the Amphitheatre Area and construction of an outdoor classroom within the 4-H Center located on Milltown Road.
Carole Juth, 758 Van Nest Drive, Martinsville addressed Council on her ongoing complaint with regard to her neighbors shed. Ms. Juth added she recently had a survey completed on her property that details her property line designation. Ms. Juth alleged various departments are not accepting her phone calls and/or responding timely.
Mr. Naples explained to Ms. Juth he had directed administrative departments to direct her calls directly to his office in an effort to coordinate her numerous inquiries.
Ms. Juth requested Council review box trucks during its review of the property maintenance ordinance. She added the property maintenance ordinance in Bernardsville bans these vehicles from residential zones.
Council requested Ms. Juth forward a copy of the Bernardsville property maintenance ordinance for review.
Andrew Sarafino, 26 Red Oak Way, expressed his frustration and stated residents concerns should be addressed and responded to within 7-14 days.
No one else wished to be heard.
On motion of Council President Albano, second of Councilman Hsing, the public portion was closed.
On motion of Councilman Norgalis, second of Councilman Kurdyla, the meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Linda J. Doyle, RMC
Municipal Clerk
______________________________
Robert Albano
Council President
