Monroe Council Minutes | 5/4/2015

COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE MINUTES 

REGULAR MEETING – MAY 4, 2015 

The Council of the Township of Monroe met in the Municipal Building, 1 Municipal Plaza, for a Regular Meeting. 

The Regular Meeting was Called to Order at 7:00 p.m. by Council President Gerald W. Tamburro with a Salute to the Flag. 

 

UPON ROLL CALL by the Township Clerk Sharon Doerfler, the following members of Council were present: Councilman Stephen Dalina, Councilman Michael Leibowitz, Councilwoman Elizabeth Schneider, Council Vice-President Leslie Koppel and Council President Gerald W. Tamburro. 

ALSO PRESENT: Mayor Richard Pucci, Business Administrator Wayne R. Hamilton, Township Attorney Joel L. Shain and Township Engineer Mark Rasimowicz.  

There were approximately one hundred (100) members of the Public present in the audience. 

 

Council President Tamburro requested the Township Clerk to read the following SUNSHINE LAW into the record: 

In accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, it is hereby announced and shall be entered into the Minutes of this meeting that adequate notice of this meeting has been provided by the following: 

1.Posted on January 2, 2015 on the Bulletin Board of the Office of the Township Clerk in the Municipal Building, 1 Municipal Plaza and remains posted at that location for public inspection; 

2.Printed in the HOME NEWS TRIBUNE and CRANBURY PRESS on January 2, 2015;  

3.Posted on the Bulletin Boards within the Municipal Complex;  

4.Posted on the Monroe Township website; and

5.Sent to those individuals who have requested personal notice. 

In accordance with Chapter 3, Section 17 of the Monroe Township Code, Public Comment shall be limited to five (5) minutes unless further time is granted by the Council President. 

 

Council President Tamburro introduced Police Chief Michael Lloyd who gave a brief biography on each of the three (3) Police Officers being officially sworn-in this evening.   

 

Each Officer was called upon individually and the Oath of Office administered by the Township Clerk as follows:   

 

Officer Anthony Brandt – Bible held by his wife Christy 

Officer Joseph Gentile, III – Bible held by his father Joseph 

Officer Ostap Pronin, – Bible held by his brother Ivin  

 

Mayor, Council Members and Business Administrator all offered comments and their congratulations. 

 

A ten (10) minute recess was taken at 7:20PM and meeting was reconvened at 7:30PM. 

 

The following PROCLAMATION of Mayor Richard Pucci was read into the record by title: 

 

Monroe Township – Day of Prayer 

Thursday, May 7, 2015 

 

 

 

 

 

The following PROCLAMATIONS of Mayor Richard Pucci were read, in their entirety, into the record: 

Kiwanis Club of Rossmoor International Day 

Friday, May 8, 2015 

 

Municipal Clerk’s Week 

May 3-9, 2015 

 

UPON MOTION made by Council Vice-President Koppel and seconded by Councilman Dalina, the CLAIMS per run date of 4/23/15 were approved for payment as presented. 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

UPON MOTION made by Councilman Dalina and seconded by Councilman Leibowitz, the Minutes of the March 30, 2015 Agenda Meeting were approved as written and presented. 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

UPON MOTION made by Councilman Leibowitz and seconded by Council Vice-President Koppel, an Ordinance of which the following is the title was moved on second reading for final passage: ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK 

ORDINANCE as follows: (0-5-2015-006) 

WHEREAS, the Local Government Cap Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.1 et seq., provides that in the preparation of its annual budget, a municipality shall limit any increase in said budget to 1.5% unless authorized by ordinance to increase it to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, subject to certain exceptions; and 

 

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.15a provides that a municipality may, when authorized by ordinance, appropriate the difference between the amount of its actual final appropriation and the 3.5% percentage rate as an exception to its final appropriations in either of the next two succeeding years; and 

 

WHEREAS, the Township Council of the Township of Monroe, in the County of Middlesex, finds its advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2015 Budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, in the interest of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the citizens; and 

 

WHEREAS, the Township Council hereby determines that a 2.0% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $690,531.36 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and 

 

WHEREAS, the Township Council hereby determines that any amount authorized hereinbelow that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years; 

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Council of the Township of Monroe, in the County of Middlesex, a majority of the full authorized membership of this governing body affirmatively concurring, as follows: 

 

SECTION 1.   In the CY 2015 budget year, the final appropriations of the Township of Monroe shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.14, be increased by 3.5%, amounting to $1,208,429.88, and that the CY 2015 municipal budget for the Township of Monroe be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and 

 

SECTION 2.   Any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as a exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years; and 

 

SECTION 3.  A certified copy of this ordinance, as introduced, be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services within five days of introduction; and 

 

SECTION 4.  A certified copy of this ordinance, upon adoption, with the recorded vote included thereon, be filed with said Director within 5 days after such adoption. 

 

SECTION 5.  All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance shall be the same and are hereby repealed. 

 

SECTION 6.  If any section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid, such adjudication shall apply only to the section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision so adjudged and the remainder of the Ordinance shall be deemed valid and effective. 

 

SECTION 7.  This Ordinance shall take effect upon final passage and publication as provided by law. 

 

Council President Tamburro opened the Public Hearing to Council and Public discussion of this Ordinance. 

 

Hy Grossman, 15 Doral Drive – requesting explanation of the CAP Bank Ordinance 

 

Administrator Hamilton explained the purpose of the Ordinance to Mr. Grossman. 

 

As Councilman Leibowitz and Council Vice-President Koppel regularly moved and seconded the adoption, an Ordinance of which the following is the title, was passed on Second Reading and Final Adoption: ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

Copy of Ordinance Duly Filed. 

0-5-2015-006 

 

UPON MOTION made by Council Vice-President Koppel and seconded by Councilman Leibowitz, an Ordinance of which the following is the title was moved on second read for final passage: ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 108 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE ENTITLED, “LAND DEVELOPMENT”, SPECIFICALLY ARTICLE VII, SECTION 7.3, ENTITLED, “WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES”. 

 

ORDINANCE as follows: (0-5-2015-007) 

 

BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Council of the Township of Monroe, in the County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey, that the Code of the Township of Monroe, Chapter 108 entitled, “Land Development” shall be amended as follows: 

 

SECTION 1.   

 

• 108-7.3.Wirelesscommunication facilities. 

 

G.Requirements for first priority locations. 

 

1. Notwithstanding any provision of this Land Development Ordinance of the Township of Monroe to the contrary, the location and height of antenna(s) on, or within, any of the existing structures within the Township identified in Addendum 1 to this section, and any accessory shelters enclosing the related electronic equipment, shall be considered permitted uses in the subject zoning district and, therefore, shall not require conditional use approval in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40:55D-67 of the Municipal Land Use Law, nor shall any variance be required in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70d. of the Municipal Land Use Law. 

 

 

 

 

1. Moreover, the location and height of the antenna(s) on, or within, any of the existing structures within the Township identified in Addendum 1 to this section, and any accessory shelter(s) enclosing the related electronic equipment, shall not require site plan approval, but shall require the review and approval of a submitted application by the Monroe Township Planning Administrator and by the Monroe Township Engineer. 

1. The applicant first shall meet with the Township Planning Administrator and the Township Engineer to discuss the proposed location of the wireless communication antennas, the proposed location and possible landscape screening of any accessory shelter(s) enclosing the related electronic equipment, and any other construction that may be proposed or required regarding the installation of the proposed antennas. 

1. In accordance with the instructions given to the applicant by the Township Planning Administrator and by the Township Engineer at the time of the meeting, the applicant thereafter shall submit plans and documentation for review, approval and signing by the Township Planning Administrator and by the Township Engineer, and no construction permit shall be issued by the Township Construction Official until he or she is in receipt of such signed plans. 

1. In any case, the height of any proposed antenna extending above any existing structure shall not exceed ten (10) feet and all antennas shall be flush mounted antennas totaling no more than twelve (12) in number. 

1. A fee of one thousand dollars ($1,000.) for the review of the information shall be submitted to the township by the applicant.Required fees: 

1.  A “Municipal Administrative Fee” of $250. which is charged to the applicant to cover the costs associated with the clerical processing and filing of the application, which fee shall be nonrefundable. 

1. A “Professional Review Fee” in the amount of $750 to be maintained by the Municipal Finance Officer. 

 

1. Additional Fees. 

1. Whenever an applicant resubmits plans to the township for professional review, the applicant shall be required to deposit therewith an additional “Professional Review Fee” in the amount of $250. to be maintained by the Municipal Finance Officer. 

 

  SECTION 2.All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency. 

 

SECTION 3.If any section, paragraph, subsection, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid, such adjudication shall apply only to the section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision so adjudged and the remainder of the Ordinance shall be deemed valid and effective. 

 

SECTION 4.This Ordinance shall take effect upon final passage and publication as provided by law subject to a copy being filed with the Middlesex County Planning Board. 

 

Council President Tamburro opened the Public Hearing to Council and Public discussion of this Ordinance. 

 

There was no Council or Public discussion of this Ordinance. 

 

 

As Vice-President Koppel and Councilman Leibowitz regularly moved and seconded the adoption, an Ordinance of which the following is the title, was passed on Second Reading and Final Adoption: ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 108 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE ENTITLED, “LAND DEVELOPMENT”, SPECIFICALLY ARTICLE VII, SECTION 7.3, ENTITLED, “WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES”. 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

Copy of Ordinance Duly Filed.  

0-5-2015-007 

 

UPON MOTION made by Council Vice-President Koppel and seconded by Councilwoman Schneider, an Ordinance of which the following is the title was moved on second read for final passage: ORDINANCE ENTERING INTO A LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE (LANDLORD) AND FRIENDS OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY GARDEN, INC. (TENANT) FOR PREMISES KNOWN AS MONROE COMMUNITY GARDEN SITUATED ON A PORTION OF LAND SHOWN ON THE MONROE TOWNSHIP TAX MAP AS BLOCK 4, LOT 6.02. 

 

ORDINANCE as follows: (0-5-2015-008) 

 

WHEREAS, the Township of Monroe has accepted the dedication of real property, with an address of 124 Applegarth Road Monroe, New Jersey 08831, known as Lots 6.01 and 6.02, in Block 4 (the “Subject Property”), as shown on the Tax Map of the Township of Monroe; and 

 

WHEREAS, thirty-three thousand nine hundred and seventy two square feet (33,972 sq. ft.) of the Subject Property is to be used as a Community Garden for the citizens of Monroe; and 

 

WHEREAS, the Friends of the Monroe Township Community Garden, Inc., a non-profit corporation, has agreed oversee the operation of the Community Garden and   

 

WHEREAS, the Council has determined that it is in the public interest to lease the Community Garden to the Friends of the Monroe Township Community Garden, Inc. for twenty-five (25) years; and  

 

WHEREAS, the Township Attorney has reviewed the proposed Lease and finds it to be legally sufficient. 

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Monroe, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey as follows: 

 

Section 1.The Township of Monroe hereby leases the Subject Property to the Friends of the Monroe Township Community Garden, Inc., a non-profit corporation, pursuant to the terms of the Lease attached hereto as Exhibit “A”. 

 

Section 2.All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed. 

 

Section 3.If any section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid, such adjudication shall apply only to the section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision so adjudged and the remainder of the Ordinance shall be deemed valid and effective.   

 

Section 4.This Ordinance shall take effect upon final passage and publication as provided by law. 

 

 

Council President Tamburro opened the Public Hearing to Council and Public discussion of this Ordinance. 

 

There was no Council or Public discussion of this Ordinance. 

 

 

 

 

 

As Council Vice-President Koppel and Councilwoman Schneider regularly moved and seconded the adoption, an Ordinance of which the following is the title, was passed on Second Reading and Final Adoption: ORDINANCE ENTERING INTO A LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE (LANDLORD) AND FRIENDS OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY GARDEN, INC. (TENANT) FOR PREMISES KNOWN AS MONROE COMMUNITY GARDEN SITUATED ON A PORTION OF LAND SHOWN ON THE MONROE TOWNSHIP TAX MAP AS BLOCK 4, LOT 6.02. 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

Copy of Ordinance Duly Filed.  

0-5-2015-008 

 

UPON MOTION made by Councilman Leibowitz and seconded by Councilman Dalina, an Ordinance of which the following is the title was introduced on first reading for final passage:  ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 39 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE ENTITLED “FEES”. 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

Copy of Ordinance Duly Filed. 

 

Council President Tamburro requested a Motion to open the Public Hearing on the 2015 Municipal Budget as introduced on April 6, 2015. 

 

UPON MOTION made by Council Vice-President Koppel and seconded by Councilman Leibowitz, the Public Hearing was opened on the 2015 Municipal Budget   

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

Mayor Pucci - Very bittersweet budget, brought forth 28 budgets and this being his final budget.  Spoke about the obstacles Monroe Twp. has faced (ex: 2008 real estate recession and millions of dollars in tax appeals) and how they were overcome and only through progressive thinking and budgeting have we gotten to where we’re at today.  Very pleased that out of Monroe’s 43 square miles, over 6,000 acres are protected from being developed under farmland preservation and open space parkland and the beauty of the community will remain.  Stated he hopes for future movement in Trenton to change the dynamic of property taxes paying for local services, especially schools.  This puts a huge tax burden on senior citizens and those on fixed incomes especially with the property tax rebates lessening.    

Happy to report there is no increase in municipal taxes this year and proud that when it’s time to govern, all involved with the budget process did what was best for the community, and worked together.  

  

Administrator Hamilton – Spoke about the incredible impact that tax appeals, loss of State Aid, and major storms, to name a few, had on the Township and how through it all we were in a position to not create additional debt to this municipality because of the strength of some reserves and by looking ahead and managing funds accordingly. 

 

Pleased to report:  the reliance on the Utility Department’s surplus is further reduced by another million dollars this year; there is no increase in 2015 health premiums, for the first time in many years, and a million dollar reserve account was established for tax appeals, plus we will be looking into doing another bond sale. 

 

Council President Gerald W. Tamburro - thanked CFO George Lang and all the Department Heads for their work on the budget, enabling the tax rate to remain flat and all services to continue with no increase.  

 

Council Vice-President Koppel - thanked the Chief Financial Officer and Business Administrator for doing such a thorough job on this year’s budget.  Found it very valuable and informative how the department heads came before Council and discussed their budgets.  Happy that the level of high quality service we provide for the town will continue with no increase.  Also was happy to see the capital improvement of the traffic light on Perrineville and Federal Roads maintained within the budget.  Requested clarification from the Business Administrator on the November ballot issue. 

 

Administrator Hamilton explained that after we go through the revaluation process, essentially we have doubled the amount of the rateables.  In essence, the tax rate comes down but the generated revenue, as a result, is actually increasing almost twice what it was prior to the revaluation.  Currently it is under discussion and review by the governing body to reduce the Open Space Tax rate from 2 ½ cents to perhaps 1 ½ cents.  Council will have to act by August if they want to put that question on the ballot. 

 

Hy Grossman, 15 Doral Drive – questioned compensated absences last year and happy to see progress. 

 

Rob Zeglarski, 162 Tournament Drive – congratulated the Mayor on his last budget and thanked the Chief Financial Officer and Business Administrator for a budget that does not include a tax increase and for the AA Bond rating.  Glad to hear the use of the utility surplus is being diminished and going down a million dollars.   

 

UPON MOTION made by Council Vice-President Koppel and seconded by Councilman Dalina, the Public Hearing on the 2015 Municipal Budget was closed.   

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

 

UPON MOTION made by Councilman Leibowitz and seconded by Council Vice-President Koppel, the 2015 Municipal Budget as introduced on April 6, 2015 was Adopted.   

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

R-5-2015-104RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE 2015 MUNICIPAL BUDGET 

 

Copy of Resolution Duly Filed. 

 

 

UPON MOTION made by Councilman Dalina and seconded by Councilman Leibowitz, the following entitled Resolutions were moved for adoption under the CONSENT AGENDA, as hereinbelow set forth:   

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

RESOLUTIONS adopted under the CONSENT AGENDA are entitled as follows: 

 

R-5-2015-105RESOLUTION REFUNDING THIRD PARTY TAX LIEN PREMIUM PAYMENT. 

 

R-5-2015-106RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER NO. 4 SUBMITTED BY DE MAIO ELECTRICAL COMPANY, INC. FOR THE MONROE TOWNSHIP UTILITY DEPARTMENT (“M.T.U.D.”)  CONTRACT 402 – “ASHMALL AVENUE PUMP STATION #7 IMPROVEMENTS.” 

 

R-5-2015-107RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REDUCTION OF PERFORMANCE GUARANTEES POSTED WITH THE MONROE TOWNSHIP UTILITY DEPARTMENT (“M.T.U.D.”) FOR REGENCY @ MONROE, SECTION 8F, G, & J (W&S 684.8). 

 

 

R-5-2015-108RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AWARD OF CONTRACT 439 – “UTILITY SERVICE BODY” TO DEJANA TRUCK & UTILITY EQUIPMENT CO. OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA FOR THE MONROE TOWNSHIP UTILITY DEPARTMENT (“M.T.U.D.”). 

 

R-5-2015-109RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR TO PREPARE AND ADVERTISE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (“RFQ’S”) FOR PROFESSIONAL MANAGEMENT AND SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE MONROE TOWNSHIP UTILITY DEPARTMENT (“M.T.U.D.”). 

 

R-5-2015-110RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AWARD OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT WITH SUBURBAN CONSULTING ENGINEERS, INC. FOR GENERAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE MONROE TOWNSHIP UTILITY DEPARTMENT (“M.T.U.D.”). 

 

R-5-2015-111RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND GRANTING PERMISSION TO THE MONROE TOWNSHIP DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC DISPLAY OF FIREWORKS. 

 

R-5-2015-112RESOLUTION REFUNDING A DUPLICATE WELL PERMIT FEE. 

 

R-5-2015-113RESOLUTION GRANTING PERMISSION TO MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION TO CONDUCT A DISPLAY OF FIREWORKS. 

 

R-5-2015-114RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AWARD OF CONTRACT TO BRENNER DRAINAGE EXCAVATING, INC. FOR ALL CONSTRUCTION SITE WORK IN CONNECTION WITH PHASE I OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY GARDEN.   

 

R-5-2015-115RESOLUTION GRANTING PERMISSION TO ROCKY BROOK, LLC TO IMPORT SOIL TO THE “ROCKY BROOK ESTATES” SITE. 

 

R-5-2015-116RESOLUTION REFUNDING TAX OVERPAYMENTS. 

 

R-5-2015-117RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF INACTIVE LIQUOR LICENSE HELD BY JSM INVESTMENTS AT MONROE, LLC FOR THE 2014 – 2015 LICENSE TERM. 

 

R-5-2015-118RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF INACTIVE LIQUOR LICENSE HELD BY MONROE 33 RESTAURANT, LLC FOR THE  

2014 – 2015 LICENSE TERM. 

 

R-5-2015-119RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND TOWNSHIP CLERK TO EXECUTE A SUB-GRANT AGREEMENT - HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM (CFDA #97.039) FEMA DR-DR-4086-NJ-0188-R BETWEEN THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY, OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE FOR EMERGENCY GENERATORS AT THE MONROE TOWNSHIP SENIOR CENTER AND COMMUNITY CENTER. 

 

R-5-2015-120RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY ENERGY AGGREGATION (“MTCEA”) PROGRAM ESTABLISHED PURSUANT TO P.L. 2003, c. 24 AND N.J.A.C. 14:4-6. 

 

R-5-2015-121RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. R-11-2014-296 AWARDING A BID TO MECO ELECTRIC, INC. FOR A GENERATOR AT THE MONROE TOWNSHIP SENIOR CENTER AND AUTHORIZING THE TOWNSHIP ENGINEER TO RE-ADVERTISE AND RE-BID. 

 

R-5-2015-122RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SUBORDINATION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING LIEN. 

 

R-5-2015-123RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND TOWNSHIP CLERK TO EXECUTE A DEVELOPER’S AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN SHARED PROPERTIES, LLC AND THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF OFF-SITE IMPROVEMENTS. 

 

R-5-2015-124RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXTENSION OF THE TERM OF THE SERVICE CONTRACT WITH GABEL ASSOCIATES, INC., AN ENERGY CONSULTANT, TO ADMINISTER THE MUNICIPAL ENERGY AGGREGATION PROGRAM IN THE TOWNSHIP OF MONROE. 

 

Copies of Resolutions Duly Filed. 

 

REPORTS 

 

Mayor Pucci – No report 

 

Administrator Hamilton – Followed up on questions from the last meeting: EMS - confirmed that EMS does not charge for stand-by presence at the local athletic organization events.  Regarding the Senior Center and Community Center construction – the Senior Center TCO was issued 6/26/13 after it was determined there were no safety issues and was added to the insurance roll.  A final CO was issued earlier this year.  Regarding flooring and HVAC repairs that were made at the Senior Center; repairs were made after the warranty’s expired so the township had to pick up the cost.  The Community Center opened in 2010 and the Senior Center opened in 2013 and we have had no safety issues.  The Community Center TCO was issued 4/5/11 after it was determined there were no safety issues and was added to the insurance roll.  A final CO was issued on 4/21/15.  There were numerous non-safety items that were being handled by the bonding companies contractor, after the original general contractor that was awarded the contract, walked off the job.   

 

The original construction budget for the new Senior Center was 12.65 million dollars and the actual cost of the Senior Center totaled over 12.8 million dollars, of which the cost was offset by a 2.2 million dollar developer’s contribution, $100,000 State Grant and $216,450 from HCD funding.  The total net cost was about 10.2 million dollars which was under the original budget.  The original construction budget of the Library expansion was 7.5 million dollars that was developed on September 13, 2007.  The actual cost was $7,174,333.41, again under budget.  The original construction budget of the Community Center expansion was 7 million dollars and the actual cost was a little over at $7,080,000 and keep in mind, the contractor walked off this job and we had to go to the bonding company who had to hire another replacement contractor. 

 

Engineer Rasimowicz – At the southern end of Applegarth Rd., the County will be continuing with the paving project the rest of this week.  At the northern end of Applegarth Rd., Forsgate/Applegarth/Linx Drive intersection, all the improvements have been completed.     

 

Council Reports: 

 

Councilman Leibowitz – Attended the 18th anniversary of Rabbi Ben Levy at the Senior Center yesterday.  There were over 200 people in attendance.  While at the Senior Center he gave a few people tours since it was their first time inside.  Between the Senior Center, Rec Center and Library, he hopes to see more people using our beautiful facilities.  Thanked the Mayor for having the foresight and continuing to do what Council tried to do 20 years prior.  He told the Mayor he appreciates what he has done for the township.   

 

Council President Tamburro – Celebrated Rabbi Levy’s 18th year with the community and the congregation. He questioned why 18 years was celebrated and not 20 or 25 and Rabbi Levy explained 18 is good luck.  Congratulated the Rabbi on his 18 years and wished him at least 18 more. 

 

Councilman Dalina – Attended a very special event on May 18th at the Community Center.  It was the Recreation Advisory Board’s Scholarship Night.  It’s a night where our Rec Programs honor those seniors graduating, for their commitment to the community and scholarship money is awarded.  Upcoming events at the Library for the month of May are as follows: The Government of India, Genealogy Workshops, Friday afternoon movies – Jersey Boys, How to use your IPad and a meet the Author event.  Please check the website for more information.   

 

Councilwoman Schneider – Also celebrated Rabbi Levy’s 18th anniversary with him; very talented, wonderful man and wishes him well.  Attended the Snuffy Hollow Camparee for the Boy Scouts at Thompson Park.  In speaking to the different Scout Masters, they were very impressed with our Thompson Park and how we availed it to the Scouts and something we should be very proud of.  She stated she applauds the Stonebridge Woman’s Club for holding a fashion show and raising between $14,000 and $15,000 for Mikey Nichols.  Applegarth School sent her the nicest thank-you notes for reading there during Dr. Suess’s birthday celebration.  She stated they thank her but she thanks them because it is her pleasure to read to the children and cherishes their letters.   

 

 

Council Vice-President Koppel – Cultural Arts Committee Events: 

May 18th - Veteran’s Day celebration at the Senior Center 

May 19th - Romantic Heartthrobs of the 19th Century will be performed at the High School.   

There is a registration fee of $8.00.   

May 23rd - Moody Blues tribute will be performing at the Marasco Center at 7:00 p.m.  

May 26th - Swash Buckling Musical Adventures at 6:30 p.m. featuring symphonic works from Broadway and many composers bringing the stories of seas to life.  All ages are welcome. 

 

PUBLIC: 

 

Gary Busman, 7 Monarch Road – No more sites available at the Monroe Community Garden.  Currently there are 12 people on a waiting list for 2016.   

 

Council President Tamburro thanked Gary Busman, Len Baskin, Henry Sloan and the Township Attorney for all the terrific work put forth to make the Community Garden possible.  

 

Councilman Leibowitz – if anyone in the audience or anyone watching on TV has gardening equipment they no longer use and would like to donate to the Community Garden it would be appreciated.   

 

Mark Klein, 7 Crenshaw Court – moved here from East Brunswick 13 years ago.  East Brunswick’s Library, probably one of the best in Middlesex County until Monroe put the extension on.  It is unbelievable and a win-win for this township.  As far as the budget, he read in the newspaper that many local municipalities had to raise their municipal budgets and it was a pleasure to see we have a flat rate.  Appreciated the report from the Business Administrator regarding the true cost of the Senior Center, Rec Center and Library.  Rumors are going around how everything built was over budget and now he has the real answers.  Requested a copy of the Administrator’s report so the truth can be spread.  Proud to be a resident of Monroe and proud of the Administration, Mayor and Council for always doing what is best for this community and its residents.   

 

Joe Homoki, 61 Hoffman Road – Thanked Mayor Pucci for being a driving force in getting the land by Thompson Park for the High School.  In the pie chart showing where tax money goes, the Board of Ed always receives at least 50%, if not more.  Every time there is more development, it creates more students, so the 50+% allocation is going to be forever.   

 

Hy Grossman, 15 Doral Drive– Consent Agenda Item 16.k. – Soil Import – do we have rules and regulations in our town to make sure the soil is clean and not contaminated?  

 

Engineer Rasimowitz replied we have to provide certification that the soil being imported is certified clean to the State.  In addition, we also approve a truck route because we’re concerned on how the trucks are going to access town.   

 

Consent Agenda Item 16.6. – Energy Aggregation Program – There is an item to extend the term of the consultant; for how long? 

 

Council President Tamburro advised this is set to expire in December 2015 so we’re extending it.  The Ordinance requires us to save at least 5% over the JCP&L rate.  Current savings was initially 20% and is still holding pretty close to that. 

 

Hy Grossman stated his savings has been 50-60% and is very pleased with the program.   

 

Steve Gorbe, 113 Gravel Hill-Spotswood Road – Can we also look into having an Aggregate Natural Gas Supplier? 

 

Administrator Hamilton responded that the market is so low right now you wouldn’t be able to generate any savings.  We’ve talked to two (2) different consultants and they have advised there is no competition in the market place right now for natural gas.  

 

Regarding the Police Department, they have property; lost, stolen, found, that has been sitting there for years and wanted to know why the property hasn’t been put up for sale?  

 

Administrator Hamilton responded that the vehicles that have been impounded are put up for auction annually.  In regards to personal property, he will follow-up with the Police Chief.  

 

 

 

Mike Costello,  22 Garvey Drive – Advised he had spoken with Bob Levinson last Wednesday evening and he told him he is serving as the Council President’s campaign manager and had asked him about getting together with Mr. DiPierro for a debate. 

 

Council President Tamburro responded that we don’t do politics here, this is a business meeting.  

 

Virginia  McGinnis,  326 A Nantucket Lane – Rumor has it Charles DiPierro has filed a law suit against Monroe Twp. and wanted to know if that is true, and if so, can the Council disclose what the lawsuit is about? 

 

Administrator Hamilton responded “yes”, it is true but it is pending litigation so not much detail can be discussed.  In summary, Mr. DiPierro owned a company called Big Daddy Construction a number of years ago; he was awarded 2 contracts, one was for the expansion of the James Monroe Park Baseball Fields and the other was the expansion of the Park and Ride.  Both projects were delivered significantly late; one being 711 days late and the other 870 days late.  The town decided to withhold the 2% retainage in lieu of imposing light penalties.  The light penalties far exceed the 2% retainage so we’ve taken the legal position that Big Daddy is not entitled to any further payment.    

 

UPON MOTION made by Councilman Dalina and seconded by Council Vice-President Koppel the regular meeting was Adjourned at 8:43 P.M. 

ROLL CALL:Councilman Stephen DalinaAye 

Councilman Michael LeibowitzAye 

Councilwoman Elizabeth SchneiderAye 

Council Vice-President Leslie KoppelAye 

Council President Gerald W. TamburroAye 

 

 

 

 

 

Sharon Doerfler 

SHARON DOERFLER, Township Clerk 

 

Gerald W. Tamburro 

GERALD W. TAMBURRO, Council President 

 

 

 

 

 

Minutes were adopted on July 6, 2015