borough of raritan2012/02/28 · regular meeting minutes february 28, 2012 4 of 21 victor laggini,...

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BOROUGH OF RARITAN

REGULAR MEETING

FEBRUARY 28, 2012

The Regular Meeting of the Borough of Raritan Council was held on February 28, 2012 in the

Municipal Building, 22 First Street, Raritan, New Jersey 08869 at 7:00PM.

Mayor Liptak presided and stated the following: Notice of this meeting was made by advising

The Courier News and the Star Ledger of the time, date and place of this Council Meeting,

posting a notice on the official bulletin board, official Borough website, filing a copy in the

Borough’s Clerk office and including this statement in the minutes of this meeting.

ROLL CALL

Present: Denise Carra, Stefanie Gara, Paul Giraldi, Greg Lobell, Anthony Soriano and

Donald Tozzi

Absent: None

Also Present: Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak; Daniel Jaxel; Borough Administrator, Stanley J. Schrek;

Borough Engineer, Mark Anderson; Borough Attorney, Jolanta Maziarz; Alternate Borough

Attorney, and Rayna E. Harris, Borough Clerk

Councilman Anthony Soriano led the flag salute and invocation.

Councilwoman Denise Carra read the following statement:

I would like to address the public tonight to clear up rumors that are circulating throughout the

borough.

I, regretfully, make this statement with a heavy heart. When I stated back in April that I would be

giving up my family health benefits, it was made with sincere intentions. Unfortunately, due to

numerous circumstances and my husband’s construction business not doing well during the past

two years, providing healthcare to three minor children has become a real burden.

I continue to believe that elected officials should forgo the health benefits plan offered to

member of the Borough Council. I did reimburse the borough for the month of January, but

cannot to continue to so as this time. My husband and I are working to rectify the situation

ASAP. We are putting our home on the market next week, moved in with my father and are

looking into other alternatives for healthcare.

Although this was a very difficult decision that I had to make, please rest assure that I take my

responsibilities as a Councilperson very seriously and I will continue to serve with honesty and

integrity.

Mayor Liptak read the following statement:

Regular Meeting Minutes February 28, 2012

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When I first learned of this situation I was as shocked, disappointed and appalled as was all of

the Council. You did not even give us the courtesy of a phone call, an email, or a text before you

generated the letter which, by the way, was neither copied to me nor any council member but

was directed solely to Mr. Jaxel and CC’d to Mrs. Kneafsey, our CFO. Any attempts to help

remedy the situation were to no avail and fell on deaf ears.

The Borough of Raritan participates in the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program and

because we have our health care coverage with NJSHB we are required by state statute to offer

health benefits to all borough employee including Councilpersons and each eligible employee

must be offered the same policy coverage for themselves and their families. In 2010 the NJ State

Legislature passed a law regulating participation in the NJSHB Program by requiring that an

elected official receive $7500 or more as a yearly salary from their municipality. Essentially, that

eliminates all elected officials in Raritan going forward. Four of us that were elected prior to

2010 even though our salaries are significantly below the $7500 threshold, continued to be

eligible to receive benefits from the Borough of Raritan through the NJSHB program. Two

Councilpersons choose not to participate and have secured private health coverage for

themselves and their families and the Mayor’s primary health coverage is Medicare. The

borough does not have an ability to make any sitting councilperson give up their health coverage

for themselves and their families if they choose not to. Do so.

On a personal note; as you all can see I am as upset as the rest of the Raritan residents by these

events that have taken place. My professional career as an educator and my tenure as a public

servant have been based upon integrity, honesty, and truthfulness. I say what I mean and mean

what I say. This entire situation has cast all of us in a very bad light and I will not allow this to

tarnish my reputation nor that of this Council.

Council President Gara read the following statement:

Mayor, Fellow Council members, those in the audience and all our residents of Raritan I am

compelled to make some remarks regarding this unfortunate situation, which faces us all. I

especially have found myself explaining to residents “No it’s not me” this I attribute to the

similarity between Councilwoman Carra’s last name and my last name. So let me set the record

straight. I ran for office with a campaign of full honesty and transparency and a commitment to

the tax payers of Raritan. I have lived up to everything I promised and I continue to do just that.

When someone chooses to run for political office, I believe their campaign promises are their

bond with the voters. To disregard campaign pledges maybe one of the reasons that across the

nation elected officials are not held in the esteem they hope to garner. While we all have

misfortunes that affect our lives, especially in these difficult financial times, it is my belief that a

campaign pledge is not to be taken lightly. In other words, I have led my life politically and

privately that my word is my bond. We may find that sitting on this council our hands are tied

due to legalities and I must accept that however, that fact in no way prevents me from stating my

extreme displeasure at what has transpired. Thank you.

Council President

Councilman Lobell read the following statement:

I am very disappointed and saddened by this situation. It sheds an unfavorable and undeserved

light on all of us in the political arena. Once again it gives the impression of “Do as I say, not as I


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do”. We have many residents in this borough that are going through tough financial times; the

difference is they are working through these hard times on their own. They do not have the

opportunity or the luxury to receive entitlements and have others pay for them.

This is a problem that goes back a long while. Why were thousands of dollars in health benefits

ever granted for a position that pays fifteen hundred dollars? It makes me question the reason a

person would do this job. Is it to serve the good people of Raritan or is it for the entitlement? I

think in the past it has been used for the latter quite a bit, and that is why I have taken such a hard

stance against health benefits for a position that is not full time. We have people on this council

that could take these benefits but chose not to, because it is the right thing to do.

Now the question is what do we do? The problem is that the law states Councilwoman Carra is

eligible to receive the benefits. As much as I disagree with the law, it is the law. I can only hope

that councilwoman Carra will see that it is not right or fair that the taxpayer foot the bill and I

would hope she finds other means to resolve the issue. Campaign promises were made to the

people and I feel they need to be kept.

Councilman Tozzi stated that he would do everything in his power to keep his campaign

promises.

Councilman Soriano and Councilman Giraldi had no comment.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Mayor Liptak read the following: At this point the Borough Council welcomes comments from

any member of the public. To help facilitate an orderly meeting and to permit the opportunity for

anyone who wishes to be heard, speakers are asked to limit their comments to 5 minutes. If

reading from a prepared statement, please provide a written copy and e-mail a copy to the

Borough Clerk’s Office after making your comments.

Jim Foohey, 710 Rhine Boulevard, Raritan, NJ 08869: He commented on the issue of elected

officials accepting health benefits from the municipality and remarked that this seems to be much

ado about nothing. Mr. Foohey expressed his support for Councilwoman Carra.

Ron Rispoli, 22 Woodmere Street, Raritan, NJ .08869: He commented on the issue of elected

officials accepting health benefits from the municipality and remarked that it is a matter of

integrity.

Richard Yadlosky, 267 Weiss Terrace, Raritan, NJ 08869: He commented on the issue of elected

officials accepting health benefits from the municipality and questioned the monthly benefit

amount. Mr. Yadlosky remarked that it is a burden on the town’s tax payers to provide health

benefits to elected officials.

Gerry Cicero, 5 Woodmere Street, Raritan, NJ 08869: She commented on Councilwoman Carra

changing political parties and the tax burden of health insurance for elected officials.


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Victor Laggini, 1025 Tysley Place, Raritan, NJ 08869: He commented on the issue of elected

officials accepting health benefits from the municipality and remarked on events that occurred

during the 2011 campaign. Mr. Laggini noted that while on the Borough Council he did take the

health benefits that were offered, but that he commended the members of the Borough Council

who are speaking out against this issue.

Anthony DeCicco, 10 Anderson Street, Raritan, New Jersey 08869: He commented on the

placement of the mayoral portraits in the Council Chambers, he noted the Councilwoman Carra

health benefit issue is between the Governing Body and he questioned if actions would be take

on the park area near Orlando Drive. Mr. DeCicco noted that the area is a health hazard and

needs to be addressed.

Bill Cunningham, Glaser Avenue, Raritan, New Jersey 08869: He stated that Councilwoman

Carra received his vote because of her promises and he also noted the need remove the shredded

recreation sign.

PROCLAMATIONS

Mayor Liptak read the following Proclamation:

Proclamation Read Across America Day

WHEREAS, the citizens of the Borough of Raritan stand firmly committed to

promoting reading as the catalyst for our students’ future academic success, their preparation for

America’s jobs of the future, and their ability to compete in the global economy; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Raritan has provided significant leadership in the area of

community involvement In the education of our youth, grounded in the principle that educational

investment is the key to the community’s well-being and long-term quality of life; and

WHEREAS, “NEA’s Read Across America,” a national celebration of reading, will be

conducted on March 2, 2012, which would have been the 108th

birthday of Theodor Seuss

Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss; and

WHEREAS, Read Across America-New Jersey is being conducted statewide by the

New Jersey Education Association in partnership with the New Jersey League of Municipalities,

the New Jersey Library Association, and their local affiliates across the state to promote reading

and adult involvement in the education of our community’s students;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the Borough of Raritan calls on

the citizens to assure that every child is in a safe place reading together with a caring adult of

March 2, 2012; and


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BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that this body enthusiastically endorses NEA’s

Read Across America and Read Across New Jersey and recommits our community to engage

in programs and activities to make America’s children the best readers in the world.

IN WHITNESS WHEREOF, I, Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak, have hereunto set my hand and caused to

be affixed the seal of the Borough of Raritan this 28th

day of February 2012.

Mayor Liptak read the following Proclamation:

Proclamation AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH 2012

WHEREAS, The American Red Cross has touched many lives in the Borough of

Raritan, as well as across the country and around the world; and

WHEREAS, During American Red cross Month, we thank those who contribute to the

mission of the Red cross, whether through time, money or blood, and we invite others to support

the Red Cross in helping people in need down the street, across the country and around the

world; and

WHEREAS, the American Red Cross is synonymous with helping people, and has been

doing so for more than 130 years and throughout the past year, the American Red Cross

launched hundreds of disaster relief operations in the United States to help people affected by

fires, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes; and

WHEREAS, in the Borough of Raritan, the Red Cross works tirelessly through its seven

employees and 683 volunteers to support us when disaster strikes, when someone needs life-

saving blood, or the comfort of a helping hand and provides 24-hour support to members of the

military, veterans and their families, also providing training in CPR, aquatics safety, and first aid;

and

WHEREAS, For nearly 100 years, United States presidents have called on the American

people to support the Red Cross and its humanitarian mission.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jo-Ann Liptak, Mayor of the Borough of Raritan, do hereby

proclaim March 2012 as American Red Cross Month. I encourage all Americans to support this

organization and its noble humanitarian mission.

IN WHITNESS WHEREOF, I, Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak, have hereunto set my hand and

caused to be affixed the seal of the Borough of Raritan this 28th

day of February 2012.


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APPROVAL OF MINUTES

September 13, 2011 Agenda Meeting

Council Member Lobell made a motion to approve the above listed Minutes with corrections and

was seconded by Council Member Giraldi. Motion carried on the following roll call vote.

MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT

Carra X

Gara X

X Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X

September 27, 2011 Regular Meeting

Council President Gara made a motion to approve the above listed Minutes with corrections and

was seconded by Council Member Soriano. Motion carried on the following roll call vote.


Carra X

X Gara X

Giraldi X

Lobell X

X Soriano X

Tozzi X

ORDINANCES: PUBLIC HEARING AND ADOPTION

ORDINANCE 2012-01

Council President Gara moved and Council Member Tozzi seconded the opening of the public

hearing on Ordinance 2012-01. Motion carried.

Richard Yadlosky, 267 Weiss Terrace, Raritan, NJ 08869: He commented that when he attended

a Planning Board meeting Canadian Codes were mentioned and questioned the need for

international codes in the Borough of Raritan, United States of America.

Stanley J. Schrek, Borough Engineer noted that the federal government is asking the States to

use a standard code.

Anthony DeCicco, 10 Anderson Street, Raritan, New Jersey 08869: He questioned if this new

code would supersede the current Borough Ordinances.

Council President Gara noted that this is the adoption of an update, the Borough previous

adopted the 2009 version of the international code.

Council Member Lobell moved and Council President Gara seconded the closing of the public

hearing on Ordinance 2012-01. Motion carried.

Council Member Giraldi moved and Council Member Tozzi seconded the adoption of

Ordinance 2012-01 on second and final reading. Motion carried on the following roll call vote.


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AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2012 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY

MAINTENANCE CODE BY AMENDING CHAPTER 56A OF THE RARITAN BOROUGH

CODE

BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan in the County of

Somerset that the Code of the Borough of Raritan of 1966 as heretofore amended be further

amended as follows:

SECTION ONE:

Chapter 56A, which is entitled “PROPERTY MAINTENANCE” is hereby amended in its

entirety to read as follows:

Chapter 56A

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

§ 56A-1. Adoption of standards.

A certain document, three copies of which are on file in the Borough Code

Enforcement Office, being marked and designated as the “International Property

Maintenance Code”, 2012 edition, as published by the International Code Council, is

hereby adopted as the Property Maintenance Code of the Borough for regulating and

governing the conditions and maintenance of all property, buildings and structures

and providing the standards for supplied utilities and facilities and other physical

things and conditions essential to ensure that structures are safe, sanitary and fit for

occupation and use. Each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties, conditions

and terms of the International Property Maintenance Code, 2012 edition are hereby

referred to, adopted, and made a part hereof, as if fully set out with the additions,

insertions, deletions and changes described in § 56A-2.

§ 56A-2. Modification of Parts of International Property Maintenance

Code.

The following parts of the “International Property Maintenance Code”, 2012 edition

are hereby revised as indicated:

A. In paragraph 101.1 “Title”, replace “[NAME OF JURISDICTION]” with

“Borough of Raritan”.

B. Section 103 “DEPARTMENT OF PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

INSPECTION” is replaced in its entirety as follows:

SECTION 103


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DEPARTMENT OF PROPERTY MAINTENANCE INSPECTION

103.1 General. The department of property maintenance inspection is

hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the

code official.

103.2 Appointment. The code official shall be appointed by the

Borough Council.

103.3 Deputies. With the concurrence of the Borough Council, the code

official shall have the authority to appoint one or more deputies.

Deputies shall have powers as delegated by the code official.

C. Section 108 “UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT” is deleted in

its entirety.

D. Section 109 “EMERGENCY MEASURES” is deleted in its entirety.

E. Section 110 “DEMOLITION” is deleted in its entirety.

F. Section 111 “MEANS OF APPEAL” is deleted in its entirety.

G. In paragraph 112.4 “Failure to comply”, replace first “[AMOUNT] dollars”

with “$100.00”; replace second “[AMOUNT] dollars” with “$2000.00”.

H. In section 202 “General Definitions”, add the following definition:

APPOINTING AUTHORITY. The Borough Council of the Borough of

Raritan.

I. In paragraph 302.4 “Weeds”, replace “[JURISDICTION TO INSERT

HEIGHT IN INCHES]” with “8 inches”.

J. In paragraph 304.14 “Insect screens”, replace first “[DATE]” with “May 1”;

replace second “[DATE]” with “October 1”.

K. In paragraph 602.3 “Heat supply”, replace first “[DATE]” with “October 1”;

replace second “[DATE]” with “May 1”.

L. In paragraph 602.4 “Occupiable work spaces”, replace first “[DATE]” with

“October 1”; replace second “[DATE]” with “May 1”.

§ 56A-3. Stricter standard.


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In any case where the provisions of this chapter impose a more restrictive standard

than that set forth in any other ordinance or law, then the standards as set forth

herein shall prevail; but if the provisions of this chapter impose a less restrictive

standard than any other ordinance or law, then the more restrictive standard

contained in such other ordinance or law shall prevail.

§ 56A-4. Savings clause.

Nothing in this chapter or in the International Property Maintenance Code hereby

adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or proceeding pending in any court, or

any rights acquired, or liability incurred, or any cause or causes of action acquired or

existing, under any act or ordinance hereby replaced; nor shall any legal right or

remedy of any kind be lost, impaired or affected by the revision of this chapter.

SECTION TWO:

This Ordinance shall take effect upon its final passage and publication according to law.


Carra X

Gara X

X Giraldi X

Lobell X

Soriano X

X Tozzi X

INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES

ORDINANCE 2012-02 Council Member Carra moved and Council Member Giraldi seconded the adoption of Ordinance

2012-02 on First Reading. The motion was carried on the following roll call vote.

AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AN

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE


X Carra X

Gara X

X Giraldi X

Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X

Public Hearing will be held on March 27, 2012 at 7:00 pm. or as soon thereafter.

ORDINANCE 2012-03 Council Member Lobell moved and Council President Gara seconded the adoption of Ordinance

2012-03 on First Reading. The motion was carried on the following roll call vote.


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AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RARITAN BOROUGH CODE BY REPEALING

CHAPTER 51 AND REPLACING IT WITH A NEW CHAPTER 51 ENTITLED

“PUBLIC PARKS”


Carra X

X Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X

Public Hearing will be held on May 27, 2012 at 7:00 pm. or as soon thereafter.

RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION 2012-02-035

Council Member Soriano moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-035 and was

seconded by Council Member Lobell. Motion carried by the following roll call vote.

APPOINTMENT OF JUNIOR FIREFIGHTER

WHEREAS, Jeremy DiNella submitted an application for membership to Relief Hose

Company #2; and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the By-Laws of Relief Hose Company #2, Jeremy

DiNella was accepted as a junior member on February 2, 2012; and

WHEREAS, the Membership of Relief Hose Company #2 recommends that the Mayor

and Council appoint Jeremy DiNella to the position of Junior Firefighter in the Raritan Fire

Department;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Borough Council of the

Borough of Raritan that Jeremy DiNella is hereby appointed to the position of Junior Firefighter

in the Raritan Fire Department effective immediately.


Carra X

Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X

X Soriano X

Tozzi X


Council Member Lobell moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-036 and was

seconded by Council Member Giraldi. Motion carried by the following roll call vote.


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TO ADOPT AN EMPLOYEE SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE

BENEFITS PLAN

WHEREAS, the Borough of Raritan wishes to adopt the Employee Paid 125/ Cafeteria

Plan/ Flexible Spending Accounts Program for the benefit of the employer’s eligible employees.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough

of Raritan, County of Somerset, State of New Jersey that the Borough hereby adopts the

Employee Paid Voluntary Supplemental Insurance Program with AFLAC of Columbus, GA; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chief Financial Officer and Borough Clerk

may execute without further resolution any related documents necessary and appropriate to adopt

the program.

MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT Carra X

Gara X

X Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X


Council Member Soriano moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-037 and was

seconded by Council Member Tozzi. Motion carried by the following roll call vote.

REFUND TAX OVERPAYMENT

WHEREAS, the Tax Collector advises that there exists tax overpayments on various properties;

and

WHEREAS, the tax payers that made the payments on those properties have requested refunds;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of

Raritan, Somerset County State of New Jersey that the Chief Financial Officer is directed to pay

the following:

1. $2,129.02 to Jack Filep, 13 Obert Dr. St., Raritan, NJ; Block 62, Lot 1.06

2. $1,435.91 to Frank Marascia, 126 Weiss Ter., Raritan, NJ; Block 76, Lot 11


Carra X

Gara X

Giraldi X

Lobell X

X Soriano X

X Tozzi X



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Council Member Carra moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-038 and was


2012 SPECIAL TEMPORARY APPROPRIATIONS

WHEREAS, an emergent condition has arisen with respect to general appropriations to

meet invoices and no adequate provision has been made in the 2011 temporary appropriations for

the aforesaid purpose, and N.J.S.A.40A:20 provides for the creation of an emergency temporary

appropriation for the purpose above mentioned; and

WHEREAS, the total emergency temporary resolutions adopted in the year 2012

pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 96, P.L. 1951 (N.J.S.40A:4-20) including this resolution

will total $10,099,003.63

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of

Raritan, Somerset County, State of New Jersey that in accordance with the provisions of

N.J.S.40A4-20, the appropriations are hereby made to provide a cumulative temporary budget

total not to exceed $10,099,003.63 that said emergency appropriations will be provided for in the

2012 budget under the appropriate budget line items; that one certified copy of this Resolution be

filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services.


X Carra X

Gara X

Giraldi X

Lobell X

Soriano X

X Tozzi X


Council Member Lobell moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-039 and was

seconded by Council President Gara. Motion carried by the following roll call vote.

RECYCLING ACT

WHEREAS, the Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act, PL 1987, c. 102, has

established a recycling fund from which tonnage grant may be made to municipalities in order to

encourage local source separation and recycling programs; and

WHEREAS, it is the intent and spirit of the Mandatory Source Separation and

Recycling Act to use the tonnage grants to develop new municipal recycling programs and to

continue and expand existing programs; and

WHEREAS, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is promulgating

recycling regulations to implement the Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act; and


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WHEREAS, the recycling regulations impose on municipalities certain requirements as

a condition for applying for tonnage grants, including, but not limited to, making and keeping

accurate, verifiable records of materials collected and claimed by the municipality; and

WHEREAS, a resolution authorizing this municipality to apply for the 2011 Recycling

Tonnage Grant will memorialize the commitment of this municipality to recycling and indicate

the assent of the Mayor and Borough Council to the efforts undertaken by the municipality and

the requirements contained in the Recycling Act and recycling regulations; and

WHEREAS, such a resolution should designate the individual authorized to ensure that

the application is properly completed and timely filed;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Borough Council of the

Borough of Raritan hereby endorses the submission of the 2011 Recycling Tonnage Grant

Application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and designates Robert

Fulminante, Recycling Coordinator, to ensure that the said Application is properly filed. MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT

Carra X

X Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X


Council President Gara moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-040 and was


RAILROAD MONTHLY PARKING REFUND

WHEREAS, the Administrator has informed the Chief Finance Officer that the

purchaser of a monthly railroad parking decal sticker has returned the unused portion of the

sticker; and

WHEREAS, the purchaser of monthly parking decal sticker has requested the balance of

the payment be refunded;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of

Raritan that the Chief Finance Officer is hereby authorized to refund monthly railroad decal

sticker payment to the following purchaser:

1. Bhaskar Gandavabi, 1 County Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Feb. to Dec. 2012 $440.00

2. Kamesh Mada, 821 Roosevelt St., Bridgewater, NJ 08807 March 2012 $40.00


Carra X

X Gara X


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Giraldi X

Lobell X

Soriano X

X Tozzi X




RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT FOR SOMERSET COUNTY TO

PROVIDE COPY AND PRINT SERVICES

WHEREAS, the Borough of Raritan is desirous of contracting copy and print services

with the County of Somerset; and

WHEREAS, the County of Somerset is desirous of providing copy and print services to

various municipalities in accordance with the terms of agreements, copies of which are on file

with the Somerset County Deputy Clerk of the Board; and

WHEREAS, the Uniform Shared Services & Consolidation Act (N.J.S.A. 40A:65-1 et.

seq) authorizes and empowers the County of Somerset and various municipalities to enter into

such agreements;

.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Borough Council of the Borough of

Raritan does hereby authorize the Mayor and Borough Clerk to execute an agreement with

Somerset County to provide copy and print services.


Carra X

X Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X


Council Member Carra moved to approve the following Resolution 2012-02-042 and was


BUDGET TRANSFER

WHEREAS, the Local Budget Law, N.J.S.A.40A:4 provides for the transfer of funds

between current year budget appropriations, should it be deemed necessary, from November 1 of

the prior year through the first three months of the current year; and

WHEREAS, it has become necessary for one such transfer to be made at this time;


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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of

Raritan that the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to transfer the amounts

below, to and from the appropriations listed hereafter.

From Account Account No Amount

Property Maintenance, SW 1-01-22-200-001-109 $44,000.00

To Account Account No Amount

Sanitation, OE 1-01-26-305-001-292 $44,000.00

Total $4312.51


X Carra X

Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X



seconded by Council Member Soriano. Motion carried by the following roll call vote.

SOCIAL AFFAIR PERMIT

WHEREAS, a Social Affair Permit application has been filed for the St. Ann’s Festa to

be held on the Catholic Church of St. Ann/St. Ann School grounds at 45 Anderson Street,

Raritan, NJ 08869 on June 12-16, 2012, from 5:00pm - 11:30pm to serve alcoholic beverages;

and

WHEREAS, that the Chief of Police has no objections to the filing of said application;

and

WHRERAS, the Borough Clerk has certified that not more than 25 Social Permits have

been authorized for these premises during this calendar year and the appropriate fee has been

paid;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of

Raritan that the Borough Clerk be authorized to sign said application and forward same to the

Department of Law & Public Safety, Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Trenton, New

Jersey.


Carra X

X Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X


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Soriano X

Tozzi X

APPROVAL OF BILLS LIST

Council Member Carra made a motion to approve the Bills List and the motion was seconded by

Council Member Tozzi. Motion carried by the following roll call vote.

BE IT RESOLVED that claims in the amount of $4,922,438.24 having been listed on the Bill

List and recorded in the files of the Borough Hall, and are hereby approved to be paid.


X Carra X

Gara X

Giraldi X

Lobell X

Soriano X

X Tozzi X

COMMITTEE AND LIAISON REPORTS

Council President Gara offered the following report:

Environmental Commission

Due to low participation the RBEC has extended the Environmental Challenge to students from

grades 7th

to 12th

. Students are asked to provide a brief essay; one to one and one half pages

doubled spaced focus on the meaning of “Sustainability”. What it means to you as a person,

what it means to Raritan and what it means to the greater good of mankind. Students will also be

required to provide a logo and slogan containing the word sustainable. All entries are due no

later than Monday, March 19th

.

The RBEC is currently looking into purchasing a recycling and garbage bin that matches the

benches for the Nevies Street Bridge. This will be purchased with monies from our Clean

Community Grant. We are working with Tim Taylor of The Dukes Foundation since the

receptacles will be placed and secured on Duke Property.

Also, please mark your calendars for Earth Day which is Sunday, April 22nd

. We will be holding

our annual Raritan River Clean up. Please join and help us clean up our community. Thanks to

Ed Kosic the owner of Sun Screen Graphics he will be donating t-shirts for our event so please

come early so you can receive one.

Administration/Personnel

On Thursday, February 23rd

we held our monthly department head meeting and I am happy to

report communication is flowing freely and everyone is working together to create more

efficiency.

Seniors

I had the pleasure of attending my first meeting with our seniors a few weeks ago and would like

to thank everyone for such a gracious welcome and a delicious lunch. Our residents were

excited over the progress with the interior of the Municipal building specifically the community


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room and I will be working with both Mr. and Mrs. Orichio on some additional work that needs

to be completed.

Finally, I have been working with Dan Laverti and Vo-Tech on finalizing the plans for the

landscaping in the front of the Municipal building. We are anticipating work to begin in early to

mid-March.

On a personal note, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to our Administrator, Dan

Jaxel on the passing of his father.

Council Member Giraldi reported on Recreation and the Police Department. He noted the

commencement of baseball/softball registration and Zumba classes.

Council Member Tozzi offered the following report:

Committee reports

Historic. Using the train station building for a basil one museum

Making Orlando day at library on bastions parade week

Grounds. Thanked public works. On painting doing ceiling tiles and bathroom in municipal

Building meeting room downstairs etc. Great job

Dog park going great people there on a reg basis very happy :-)

Library. Talked about Women's Yoga on March 7 6:30 pm

Movie night March 8 6:15pm. Movie "To kill a mocking bird "

Library also has Laptop computers to use while your at library

Council Member Lobell reported for the Board of Education, the Rescue Squad and the Chamber

of Commerce. He noted the Rescue Squad’s request for a donation to be used to purchase a new

ambulance stretcher.

Council Member Soriano reported for the Board of Health and the Department of Public Works.

He noted the next Regional Center meeting will be held in March.

Council Member Carra read the finance and municipal court reports. She also offered the

following report:

Economic Development Committee

A borough ordinance has been prepared to establish the Economic Development Committee as

an official borough entity. To date, the EDC has been operating as an ad hoc committee without

being ordained by the borough. The ordinance, if adopted, would specify membership

requirements, terms of office, meetings, duties, reporting procedures, access to borough public

information and records and designation of funds & expenses. This ordinance will take effect

upon its final adoption and publication according to the law.

The Mayor advised the committee of the necessity of appointing 7 regular, committed members

and two alternate members and the designation of their terms of office. It was noted that


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committee membership would become more structured under the ordinance, and that a

membership commitment would require regular attendance and active participation.

The committee was asked about taking over the Meet Your Neighbor Day event. Members

discussed re-inventing the event with a new name and new location. Historically, the event has

not fallen under the jurisdiction of either the Chamber of Commerce or the Economic

Development Committee. It was suggested that the EDC appoint an ad hoc committee to oversee

this event. Denise Carra and Don Christensen volunteered to sit on the committee. Further

discussions will be forthcoming.

The committee discussed at length the status of the Nevius Street Bridge Project. A timeline of

activities were developed to complete the installation of 10 new benches by Memorial Day. A

total of 20 sponsors will be picked from a lottery. Winners may purchase half a bench and place

a memorial plaque on the bench. All plaques will be of the same design and assigned randomly.

Bench sponsorship will cost $250.00 per half. All interested persons must be registered by April

9th

. Lottery forms can be picked up in the lobby of the municipal building or downloaded from

the borough web site. The drawing will be held at the Council Meeting on April 10th

and the

public is welcome to attend the 7:00 pm drawing. Applicants who do not win a sponsorship can

still make a donation to the Nevius Street Bridge Beautification Project for landscaping, cleanup

and other maintenance costs. A sponsor list will be created and placed on the borough web site.

All who donate to the project will be considered charter members and will be kept up-to-date on

this and other related borough projects.

Today at 1:00 pm, I attended an interview and photo shoot at the Nevius Street Bridge with

Council President Gara, Councilman Lobell, Don Christensen(EDC Chairman), Dave Maski

(Borough Planner) and Warren Cooper from the Messenger-Gazette to kick-off the start of this

project. A sample bench was placed on the bridge for the photo shoot. A ribbon cutting

ceremony will be held on Friday, May 25 at 1:00 pm after all benches are installed.

We discussed attracting new businesses to the borough. John Maddocks had previously made

the committee aware of a link that outlines the process for listing available properties on the

CoStar database. (CoStar is a data service provider that most office, industrial and retail brokers

use.) Dave Maski, the borough planner, suggested that we review the Rutherford, NJ municipal

web site to see an example of how videos can be used to promote economic vitality. It was

agreed that efforts in this area should be accelerated.

The John Basilone weekend is scheduled for September 22 and 23. Activities for the Friday

night fireworks and live band have been cancelled. Plans for re-staging a “Taste of Raritan” for

that weekend will remain an active agenda item because of moving the John Basilone statue to

its new location.

Mayor Liptak reported on various items of correspondence. She noted that the New Jersey State

League of Municipalities is not support NJ State Senate Bill S-2. Mayor requested suggestions

of appointees to the Bridgewater-Raritan Alliance. She also noted that the Raritan Borough

municipal building would be a drop site for the Somerset County Freeholder’s initiative next

“Buy One, Bring One” (BOBO) collection of food and personal-care items for needy families.


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OLD BUSINESS

Handicapped Parking Request

Mayor Liptak noted that a resident of Gaston Avenue requested a handicapped parking space.

She stated that the Borough needs to have guidelines in place to uniformly respond to and

authorized the issuance spaces.

Borough Code Chapter 78: Towers and Wreckers

Mark Anderson, Borough Attorney, noted that a draft of Chapter 78 has been written, but the

recommendations of Police Chief Ciesla need to be incorporated. He suggested the introduced

version be sent to the towing companies currently licensed in the Borough for comment.

Council Member Soriano questioned the status of the Busky Lane Park property.

Mr. Anderson stated that there was no new information at this time.

Council President Gara questioned any actions that could be taken immediately.

Mr. Anderson advised that arrangements for a sale could be made.

Council Member Tozzi noted that he is waiting on a proof of the calendar, but that the process is

moving forward. He noted that the calendar production is on track for an April 1, 2012 delivery

date.

NEW BUSINESS

Council Member Giraldi noted that grants from the Department of Homeland Security are

available.

Daniel stated that it would be a matching grant and the Bob Lisa, Office of Emergency

Management Coordinator is prepared to apply for the grant to be used to purchase a trailer for

emergency purposes.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Gerry Cicero, 5 Woodmere Street, Raritan, NJ 08869: She commented on Mr. Foohey’s previous

remarks and stated that she hoped politicians would keep their promises.

Jim Foohey, 710 Rhine Boulevard, Raritan, NJ 08869: He commented affirmed his previous

comments on elected officials receiving health benefits and support of Councilwoman Carra.

Adele Goetch, 6 Nevius Street, Raritan: She expressed her support for the bench project.

Victor Laggini, 1025 Tysley Place, Raritan, NJ 08869: He offered his assistance on the 2012

Meet Your Neighbor Day event, offered to make a bench donation in his father’s name and

questioned the funding for the new calendar.


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Richard Yadlosky, 267 Weiss Terrace, Raritan, NJ 08869: He expressed he displeasure at the

adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code and also affirmed his previous

comments on elected officials receiving health benefits, but blamed the administration.

Anthony DeCicco, 10 Anderson Street, Raritan, New Jersey 08869: He commented the need for

15 minute parking instead of handicapped parking, commended Councilman Giraldi on the

homeland security grant, suggested that some no-profit organizations donate to the Rescue Squad

and questioned what agency would pay for the moving of the Basilone Statue.

Hugo Simoes, 15 Brentwood Road, Raritan, New Jersey 08869: He commented Councilwoman

Carra keeping her campaign promises. Mr. Simoes also noted the need for traffic calming,

speeding deterrents on Tysley Place. He suggested rumble strips or speed bumps.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

Mayor Liptak read the following Resolution.




EXECUTIVE SESSION

WHEREAS, the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A. 10:4-7, et seq., commonly known

as the “Sunshine Law”, requires that Borough Council meetings be open to the public except for

the discussion of certain subjects; and

WHEREAS, the “Sunshine Law” requires that a closed session be authorized by

resolution;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Raritan

that the following portion of this meeting shall be closed to the public; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the meeting shall be resumed at the end of closed

session; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the subjects to be discussed and the time of public

release of the minutes of the closed session are indicated below:

SUBJECT MATTER

1. Personnel – Municipal Court and Appointments

2. Attorney-Client Privilege

TIME WHEN AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THE SUBJECT MATTER

CAN BE DISCLOSED:

Upon authorization by the Borough Attorney



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Carra X

X Gara X

Giraldi X

X Lobell X

Soriano X

Tozzi X

Council Member Giraldi motioned to adjourn the Executive Session and to return to the normal

order of business; the motion was seconded by Council President Gara. Motion carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Council President Gara made a motion to adjourn and was seconded by Council Member

Soriano. Motion was carried at 9:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Rayna E. Harris,

Borough Clerk

borough of raritan2012/02/28 · regular meeting minutes february 28, 2012 4 of 21 victor laggini,...

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