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Township Council Mtg: 5-4-26
Opening remarks and notice of the meeting's time, date, location, and agenda were provided as per protocol.
The meeting opened with a welcome to all attendees. The clerk read a notice explaining that the meeting's time, date, location, and agenda were provided in accordance with legal requirements. This information was disseminated through various channels including posting on the municipal bulletin board and email notifications.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all attendees, affirming their commitment to the nation.
All attendees stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States, reaffirming their commitment to liberty and justice for all.
Roll call was conducted, confirming the presence of all council members and the mayor.
The clerk conducted a roll call of council members. Councilwoman Gonzalez, Councilman Joanna, Councilwoman Cruz, Councilwoman Charris Tabares, Councilwoman Fishman, Councilwoman Teller Phillips, and Mayor Mundell were all present.
Proclamation recognizing May as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, highlighting efforts to educate the public and support affected individuals.
The council recognized May as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. Councilwoman Fishman read the proclamation that emphasized the importance of increasing public knowledge about asthma and allergies, which affect many residents. The township's efforts, in collaboration with health organizations, to provide education and medical resources were highlighted.
Proclamation for Lupus Awareness Month, emphasizing awareness, research, and support for those affected by lupus.
Councilwoman Charris Tabares presented a proclamation declaring May as Lupus Awareness Month. The proclamation highlighted lupus as a complex autoimmune disease affecting many individuals. It acknowledged the efforts of local organizations like Butterfly Walkers Inc. in raising awareness and supporting research and education efforts.
Proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month, promoting mental health resources and reducing stigma.
The council proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month. Councilwoman Charris Tabares read the proclamation, which aimed to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and ensure access to resources. The township's commitment to supporting mental health through various services and collaborations was emphasized.
Proclamation celebrating Mexican-American Owned Business Appreciation Day, honoring their contributions to the community.
Councilwoman Cruz presented a proclamation for Mexican-American Owned Business Appreciation Day. The proclamation celebrated the contributions of Mexican-American businesses to the township's cultural and economic landscape, recognizing their role in enriching the community and fostering connections among residents.
Public comment session where residents shared their thoughts and concerns with the council.
A public comment session was held, allowing residents to voice their opinions and concerns to the council. Speakers addressed various topics, including township politics, the proposed sewer fee, and community engagement. Residents were given five minutes each to speak, and their remarks were addressed to the council as a whole.
Citizens express concerns about township administration, transparency, racial discrimination, and the proposed sewer fee.
During the public comment session, multiple residents voiced their concerns regarding various issues involving the township administration. Remarks included criticism of the administration's transparency, the handling of public records requests, and allegations of racial discrimination within the fire department. Concerns were also raised about the proposed sewer fee, with residents questioning its fairness and transparency. Speakers called for accountability and better communication from elected officials.
Residents expressed concerns about public service, safety, and community involvement.
During the public comments, residents addressed the council, urging them to serve the public effectively. Concerns about safety were raised, with requests for communication and action from the council. Residents expressed appreciation for new faces and encouraged more community involvement.
Council members responded to public comments, addressing safety concerns and clarifying misinformation about the sewer fee ordinance.
Council members responded to the public comments, addressing specific concerns raised by residents. One council member discussed the process of addressing safety concerns and encouraged residents to reach out with further issues. There was also a clarification regarding the sewer fee ordinance, emphasizing the public review period and countering accusations of the council's actions.
The police chief presented a report on crime statistics, initiatives to combat catalytic converter thefts, and community policing efforts.
The police chief reported a 9% increase in crime, primarily due to catalytic converter thefts. The department's efforts to address these thefts include increased patrols and collaboration with other towns. The chief also highlighted community policing initiatives, including school programs and community events, to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.
Discussion on contracts for summer concerts and adjustments to vendor fees for recreation events to enhance community participation.
The council discussed the award of contracts for the summer concert series and how these events are funded through both community contributions and township budgets. There was also a proposal to adjust vendor fees for recreation-sponsored events to make it more feasible for vendors to participate, thereby enriching the community experience.
Discussion on adding vacant properties to the lien list for snow and ice removal services conducted by the township.
The council discussed the need to add vacant properties to a lien list to recover costs incurred by the township for maintaining these properties during snow and ice events. The conversation included considerations for residents who might need assistance, such as seniors and veterans, and ensuring they are supported appropriately.
Approval for replacing three police vehicles and upfitting them with necessary equipment such as lights and sirens.
The council reviewed the need to replace three police vehicles that were totaled and discussed the criteria for vehicle replacement, including usage and safety. They also discussed the necessity of upfitting these vehicles with the appropriate equipment to ensure they meet the operational requirements of the police department.
Review and adjustments of handicap parking and loading zones, including additions and removals based on current needs.
The council discussed the addition of new handicap parking spaces and loading zones, as well as the removal of spaces that are no longer needed. These adjustments aim to better serve the community by ensuring adequate access for individuals with disabilities and current parking needs.
The township attorney reported on the process of reviewing applications for the vacant assistant prosecutor position.
The township attorney informed the council that applications for the assistant prosecutor position have been received and are under review. A candidate is expected to be presented at the next council meeting for consideration.
Award of professional services contracts for local aid projects and construction oversight for infrastructure improvements.
The township engineer reported on the award of contracts for professional services related to local aid projects, including the replacement of traffic signals and pressure-reducing valves. These projects are essential for maintaining and improving township infrastructure.
Council members provided updates on various committee activities and upcoming community events.
Council members reported on the success of recent community events such as the Repair Cafe and the town-wide cleanup. They also announced upcoming events including shredding day, Juneteenth celebrations, and the municipal youth internship program. These reports highlight the council's ongoing efforts to engage with and support the community.
Announcement of summer programming, including details on registration, locations, and age groups.
The meeting discussed the upcoming summer programming available for various age groups. It was emphasized that spaces fill up quickly, and attendees were advised to review the flyer on the recreation's website for information. The programming includes activities for children of different age groups, such as kindergarten and first graders at Carter Elementary School and second through sixth graders at Watts ING Elementary School. Participants were encouraged to plan ahead for registration.
Details of summer camps and sport clinics offered, including locations, registration, and age groups.
The meeting provided information about the summer camps and sports clinics available, including registration details and locations. Camps are available online or in person at the civic center, with co-ed options for residents. There are day trips with transportation and lunch included, and camps are offered for single or multiple weeks. Sport clinics will take place in the morning at several parks and civic centers, with flyers posted on the website once confirmed.
Details about the upcoming annual Memorial Parade, including route and participant information.
The meeting announced the annual Memorial Parade, which will proceed down Broad Street and include a ceremony at the historic town green. The parade will feature military and veteran organizations, Bloomfield fire, police, EMS, township departments, community organizations, sports teams, scouts, marching bands, and classic cars. Participants were invited to reach out for more details and to arrange rides for veterans unable to march.
Announcement of the upcoming town-wide track meet for elementary students, including event details.
The meeting included an announcement about the town-wide track meet for elementary boys and girls in grades four through six. Preliminary qualifying events will start this month, leading up to the competition at Foley Field. The community is encouraged to attend and support the student athletes.
Resolution authorizing the appointment of Charles Eater as Tax Assessor for the township.
The council discussed and passed a resolution authorizing the appointment of Charles Eater as the Tax Assessor for the township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey. The resolution was moved by Councilman Fishman and seconded by Councilwoman Phillips. The council expressed gratitude for filling the position.
Resolution to award a contract to All American Ford for supplying police interceptor vehicles.
The council passed a resolution awarding a contract to All American Ford for the supply of all-wheel-drive interceptors to the township of Bloomfield's department. The resolution was moved by Councilman Joanna and seconded by Councilwoman Cruz. Councilwoman Fishman recused herself from the vote.
Resolution authorizing purchase of vehicle upfitting equipment for police vehicles.
The council discussed and passed a resolution authorizing the purchase of vehicle upfitting equipment for three police vehicles for the Bloomfield Police Department. The resolution was moved by Councilman Cruz and seconded by Councilwoman Charris Tabares. Councilwoman Fishman recused herself from the vote.
Resolution authorizing the purchase of electronic equipment for police vehicles through NJ Cooperative.
The council passed a resolution authorizing the purchase of electronic equipment for three police vehicles for the Bloomfield Police Department through the NJ NASPO Cooperative contract. The resolution was moved by Councilman Charris Tabares and seconded by Councilwoman Cruz. Councilwoman Fishman recused herself from the vote.