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Township Council Mtg: 2-09-26
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States, emphasizing unity and justice.
Participants were asked to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, highlighting the nation's commitment to liberty and justice for all.
Attendance was taken, confirming all council members and the mayor were present for the meeting.
The clerk conducted a roll call of the council members. Councilman Joanna, Councilwoman Cruz, Councilwoman Cha Tobar, Councilwoman Fishman, Councilwoman Toler Phillips, and Mayor Mendel were present.
A proclamation was issued to recognize Delilah Torres for her achievements in TaeKwonDo and sports.
Councilwoman Gonzalez read a proclamation honoring Delilah Torres, a Bloomfield resident and second-grade student, for her dedication to TaeKwonDo and her achievements in youth sports, including soccer.
January was proclaimed as Muslim American Heritage Month, celebrating contributions and fostering unity.
Councilman Joanna read a proclamation recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month, acknowledging the contributions of Muslim Americans to various sectors and promoting inclusion and unity.
A proclamation was issued declaring Martin Luther King Jr. Day, urging service in his honor.
Councilwoman Cruz read a proclamation for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, celebrating his legacy of advancing equality and urging citizens to engage in community service and uphold his values.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day was proclaimed to honor victims and promote education.
Councilwoman Fishman read a proclamation declaring International Holocaust Remembrance Day to honor the victims and survivors of the Holocaust and to promote education to prevent future atrocities.
January was proclaimed as National Blood Donor Month, highlighting the importance of blood donations.
Councilwoman Toler Phillips read a proclamation for National Blood Donor Month, emphasizing the critical need for blood donations during winter and recognizing donors who save lives.
January was proclaimed as Human Trafficking Prevention Month to raise awareness and support survivors.
Councilwoman Charis Tabber read a proclamation declaring January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month, highlighting efforts to combat trafficking and support survivors through education and advocacy.
Board appointments were made for the Historic Preservation Commission and Rent Leveling Board.
The council approved appointments to various boards and commissions, including Clayton Wolfe to the Historic Preservation Commission and Edgardo Perez to the Zoning Board, among others.
The police chief reported on crime trends, community engagement, and department activities.
Chief Richie presented the police report, discussing thefts, domestic violence resources, community events, and recent retirements. Efforts to prevent crime and engage with the community were highlighted.
The council received an update on snow operations, storm response, and future improvements.
A detailed report on the township's response to a recent snowstorm was given, covering preparation, operations, and recovery. The need for improved communication and resident compliance was discussed.
The meeting begins with acknowledgments of community efforts and gratitude towards local departments.
The meeting opens with thanks to community members for their patience and efforts, especially acknowledging the police, DPW, and health department for their hard work during the recent snow events.
Residents express concerns over ICE activity, community safety, and local police responses.
During the public comment section, residents voiced concerns about ICE activity and its impact on the community. Jonathan Mejia from Halcyon Park urged residents to remain active and highlighted issues about ICE practices and the local police's ability to intervene. Norm and other speakers raised points about body-worn cameras, automated license plate readers, and the need for policy transparency.
The council addresses the public's concerns about ICE operations and promises further communication.
Council members respond to public comments, assuring residents that they are taking the concerns seriously. They discuss the Immigrant Trust directive and emphasize ongoing efforts to update the community on ICE-related issues. The council also expresses its commitment to ensuring that residents feel safe and heard.
The council acknowledges significant cultural and historical events and their importance to the community.
The council recognizes and celebrates Muslim American Heritage Month and Holocaust Remembrance Day, emphasizing the importance of remembering history to combat racism and discrimination.
Residents express worries about misinformation and the need for accurate public information.
A resident underscores the importance of verifiable information and action items being shared with the public, and addresses the issue of misinformation being spread online regarding ICE activities.
A brief update on the Citizen Solar campaign and its potential benefits for the community.
Ted Glick updates the council on the Citizen Solar campaign, discussing past evaluations and potential financial benefits of solar installations on municipal properties. He emphasizes the importance of renewable energy despite previous federal administration challenges.
Discussion on the impact of court decisions on renewable energy projects, including offshore wind and solar initiatives.
The meeting discussed the importance of renewable energy projects that were initially halted by the Trump administration but are now resuming due to favorable court rulings. It highlighted the significance of continuing construction on offshore wind projects and the overall progress of renewable energy despite opposition.
The township decides to postpone the solar canopy project due to financial constraints and unreliable federal funding.
The discussion centered around the township's decision to delay the solar canopy project, citing budget constraints and uncertainty in federal financial support. The township administrator explained that although they support renewable energy efforts, they cannot currently allocate funds for the project.
Clarification on the police department's commitment to responding to all calls and ensuring public safety.
During the public comment section, the mayor emphasized that the police department responds to all calls and is committed to public safety, addressing concerns raised by a community member.
A new grant will assist residents with rent, security deposits, and utilities, providing flexible aid for undocumented residents.
The township announced the acceptance of a grant aimed at helping residents with back rent, security deposits, and utilities. The grant will be distributed over three years. It provides flexibility to assist undocumented residents and those who do not qualify for county grants.
Residents receiving assistance must go through a budgeting course to ensure financial sustainability.
The council discussed the requirement for residents receiving financial assistance to complete a budgeting course. This course includes reviewing bank statements and income to help residents understand their financial limitations and ensure they do not need future assistance.
The township provides funding and support to families with members detained by ICE, ensuring community assistance.
The meeting addressed the township's efforts to support families affected by ICE detentions. The human services department actively reaches out to these families to provide assistance, including financial aid and social services.
Emergency housing and support for the unhoused are available through partnerships with local agencies and motels.
The council discussed the township's emergency response plan for homelessness, which includes funding for motel stays in emergencies and partnerships with local agencies to provide necessary support and resources.
The Neighbor to Neighbor Network provides wraparound services that government funding cannot cover, supporting the community.
The discussion highlighted the role of the Neighbor to Neighbor Network, which offers services beyond what state or federal funding can provide, such as additional support for housing and food assistance.
The council approves a contract for tax map maintenance essential for the upcoming town-wide revaluation.
The meeting included approval of a contract with Remington Vernick for tax map maintenance, a necessary step for the upcoming revaluation required by New Jersey law. This maintenance ensures accurate property assessments.
The recreation department plans upgrades to Felton Field to accommodate older children by expanding the field size.
The council discussed plans to upgrade Felton Field by repositioning the outfield fencing to increase the field size for older children. This upgrade is funded by the recreation department's capital fund and aims to accommodate the growing needs of local youth baseball players.
A grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust will be used for repairs and architectural review of historic properties.
The council reviewed a grant opportunity from the New Jersey Historic Trust for the Collins House and other historic properties. The grant will fund infrastructure repairs and a review of architectural designs and landscapes, with matching funds provided by the township.
Application for a grant to improve local recreational facilities, including basketball courts at Clark's Pond.
The parks and recreation department is seeking approval to apply for a local recreation improvement grant. The grant will fund enhancements to recreational facilities, such as the basketball court at Clark's Pond, to improve community amenities.
Approval for aquatic herbicide treatment at Lion Gate to control invasive species in compliance with DEP standards.
The meeting included approval for aquatic herbicide treatments at Lion Gate, following stringent New Jersey DEP standards to control invasive aquatic species and prevent chemical drift. This treatment is part of ongoing environmental maintenance efforts.
The Department of Public Works discusses contracts for equipment disposal and maintenance.
The DPW presented contracts for the disposal of unused township equipment through GovDeals and other maintenance contracts for township vehicles and infrastructure, ensuring efficient operations.
A new electric vehicle for the fire department will be funded through the fire prevention trust.
The council approved the purchase of an electric vehicle for the fire department, demonstrating a commitment to renewable energy and reducing the carbon footprint. This purchase is funded through the fire prevention trust.
A shared services agreement with Paramus DPW for apparatus repair to optimize resource use.
The council discussed a shared services agreement with the Paramus DPW, which will handle apparatus repair for the township, allowing for more efficient use of resources and cost savings.
Support contract for the township's electronic ticketing system for efficient legal processing.
The township renewed a contract for support of its electronic ticketing system, which is used by the police department to issue and track summonses, ensuring modern and efficient legal processing.
Approval for upgrading the police department's internal recording system to meet current standards.
The council approved funding for upgrades to the police department's internal recording system, which is outdated and no longer fully supported. This upgrade will enhance the department's operational capabilities.
Contract for services supporting township radio and communication systems.
The meeting included approval of a contract for services and support of the township's radio systems, including body cameras and communication equipment, which are vital for police operations and community safety.
Discussion on raising pay for police officers on extra duty assignments to align with county standards.
The council considered a proposal to increase the pay for police officers working extra duty assignments. The proposed increase aligns with rates in other municipalities within the county and includes adjustments to charges collected by the township.
Concerns about removing a bus stop on Broad Street due to property owner complaints and student reliance.
The council discussed the potential removal of a bus stop on Broad Street due to complaints from a property owner. Concerns were raised about the impact on students and commuters who rely on the stop, prompting further review of complaints and ridership data.
Recommendation for a new stop sign on Washington Street for public safety improvement.
The council proposed installing a stop sign at the intersection of Washington Street and Lackawanna Plaza to enhance public safety. This recommendation follows numerous public complaints about traffic and pedestrian safety in the area.
Resolution to discharge a mortgage for residents who have met all repayment requirements.
A resolution was discussed to discharge a mortgage for residents who have fulfilled all necessary repayment obligations, returning the funds they initially provided for the mortgage.
Initiation of a redevelopment study for the vacant Powerhouse Gym site to explore development options.
The council discussed authorizing a redevelopment study for the former Powerhouse Gym site. This study will allow the planning board to evaluate the site, hold public hearings, and determine suitable redevelopment options.
Adoption of a redevelopment plan for a site on JFK Drive to guide future development.
The meeting covered the adoption of a redevelopment plan for a site on JFK Drive, which outlines potential development parameters. This plan will guide future proposals and ensure alignment with township goals.
Formal designation of a vacant property on Locust Avenue for redevelopment planning.
The council discussed formally designating a vacant property on Locust Avenue for redevelopment. This designation allows the township to begin planning and evaluating potential development projects that align with community needs.
Resolution to clean up accounting records related to state grants and expenditures.
The finance director presented a resolution for cleaning up accounting records, involving the removal of uncollectible grant receivables and unspent grant appropriations, ensuring accurate financial reporting.
Award of a professional service contract for on-call traffic services to evaluate traffic calming measures.
The township awarded a contract for on-call traffic services to assess requests for traffic calming measures, such as speed humps and rapid flashing beacons, ensuring compliance with NJDOT standards.
Plan to restart the lead water service line replacement project with updated plans and compliance.
The council discussed restarting the lead water service line replacement project, with updated plans to meet current standards. This project aims to provide safe, potable water by replacing old lead lines.
Proposal to establish a clergy advisory council to improve communication and support during emergencies.
The mayor proposed forming a clergy advisory council to enhance communication and support during emergencies. This council would help coordinate outreach and assistance through local clergy networks, improving community response and support.
Discussion on formalizing a Clergy Advisory Council to enhance communication between local clergy and the governing body, emphasizing community outreach and feedback.
The council discussed the importance of establishing a formal Clergy Advisory Council to facilitate regular communication between local clergy and the government. The clergy often have weekly contact with residents and can provide critical feedback on community issues. The council emphasized that this communication should be shared with all members of the governing body to better understand community concerns and reactions, particularly in response to events causing widespread impact, such as ICE activities. The goal is to ensure that the governing body is informed and can better serve the residents by understanding their concerns and needs, as observed by the clergy.
Proposal to formalize the Youth Advisory Council, involving students in municipal governance to foster young leadership and engagement in civic duties.
Councilwoman Cruz discussed the existing Youth Advisory Council, which includes students involved in internships. She proposed formalizing their role through an ordinance or resolution to enhance their participation in municipal governance. This would include officially swearing in young advisors and having them contribute to discussions on relevant topics, aiming to engage young residents and prepare them for future leadership roles.
Update on the Beautification Committee's activities, including a community cleanup event and plans for a paper shredding day with reusable bag collection.
An update was provided on the Beautification Committee's plans, including a community cleanup event scheduled for a future date, details to be announced. Additionally, a paper shredding event will be organized, during which reusable bags will be collected and donated to Tony's Kitchen. The public is encouraged to participate in these activities to support community beautification and environmental sustainability efforts.
Reports on various committee activities, including recreation updates, shelter needs, and Latino community engagement efforts.
The council received updates from various committees. New recreation programs were launched, including successful winter activities and a salute to service basketball game. The shelter committee shared its Amazon wishlist to gather resources. Efforts to engage the Latino community through town events were discussed, aiming to integrate and inform Latino residents about community activities.
Celebration of Black History Month with events and a focus on local community media to disseminate information and engage residents.
Councilwoman Cruz highlighted events planned for Black History Month, including a Zumba fundraiser and an open mic night featuring performances and storytelling. The theme this year is celebrating a century of black history commemorations. Additionally, updates were provided on the WBMA television network, encouraging residents to use the available app to stay informed about town programming.
Discussion on the future of the Flood Committee and its relationship with other environmental committees to avoid duplicated efforts.
A question was raised about the appointment of a liaison for the Flood Committee. The council is reviewing the roles of the Flood Committee, Environmental Committee, and Green Team to streamline efforts and ensure efficient handling of environmental issues, including flooding. The possibility of creating a subcommittee within the Environmental Commission was mentioned.
Resolutions passed to establish new positions and appoint individuals to various roles, including crossing guards and police officers.
Several resolutions were passed, including the approval of new crossing guards and the appointment of individuals to police officer positions within the township. These appointments aim to enhance community safety and service. The council also discussed the process of going into a closed session to further discuss new business items.