City Council

The Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Hackensack was held at City Hall, 65 Central Avenue, Hackensack, New Jersey, on Tuesday, November 23, 2015 at 8:08 p.m. Mayor John Labrosse Jr. called the meeting to order and the City Clerk Deborah Karlsson announced that the meeting was being held in accordance with the Sunshine Law, notice having been published according to law, with a copy on file in the City Clerk’s office, and a copy posted on the bulletin board in City Hall. Attendance Ms. Karlsson called the roll: Mayor John P. Labrosse Jr., Deputy Mayor Kathy Canestrino, Councilman Leonardo Battaglia, Councilman David Sims, and Councilwoman Deborah Keeling-Geddis were present. City Manager David Troast was in attendance. Judge Carver was in attendance. Flag Salute Moment of Silence for events in Paris on November 13, 2015. Proclamations None Approval of Minutes None City Manager’s Report Monday, December 7th at 5:30 on the Green is our tree lighting, Menorah, and Kwanzaa ceremony. Details are on the website. DPW vehicle auction has occurred. There were a lot of inoperable vehicles that were auctioned off which gave us a profit of almost $10,000. Many of the vehicles have been removed and we are being more frugal about vehicles with the Prosecutor’s office as well. We don’t need to have the vehicles stored there for too long especially if there are a lot of title issues but we will follow the law. Building Department report from 11/9 – 11/20: 66 notices, 57 inspections, 27 property compliance, 11 CCO’s, 6 sidewalks, and 11 summonses. I hope the beauty that has been put up at 76 Main Street with the murals show and demonstrate the equality of the artists. Finally, Happy Thanksgiving to all! We all have a lot to be thankful for. We live in a good country and I especially think of all the service men and woman away from their families protecting our freedom during the holidays. Resolutions 11/23/2015 1  Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia x x Deputy Mayor Canestrino x x Sims x Keeling -Geddis x x Mayor Labrosse x CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 481-15 FINAL ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 58-2015, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART II ENTITLED “GENERAL LEGISLATION” CHAPTER 90 ENTITLED “FOOD AND DRINK,” SECTION 1 ENTITLED “PROVISIONS OF STATE CODE” AND SECTION 2 ENTITLED “LICENSE REQUIRED; EXEMPTIONS” This ordinance has been advertised pursuant to law and now calls for a public hearing. Will someone so move?” Motion offered by Councilman Sims and seconded by Deputy Mayor Canestrino that there be a public hearing. PUBLIC HEARING – Motion offered by Deputy Mayor Canestrino and seconded by Councilman Battaglia that the public hearing be closed. BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack, County of Bergen and State of New Jersey, that Ordinance No. 58-2015 has passed its second and final reading and is hereby adopted. CITY OF HACKENSACK ORDINANCE NO. 58-2015 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART II ENTITLED “GENERAL LEGISLATION,” CHAPTER 90 ENTITLED “FOOD AND DRINK,” SECTION 1 ENTITLED “PROVISIONS OF STATE CODE” AND SECTION 2 ENTITLED “LICENSE REQUIRED; EXEMPTIONS” WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:48-2, the governing body of a municipality may make, amend, repeal, and enforce such other ordinances, regulations, rules and by-laws not contrary to the laws of this state or of the United States, as it may deem necessary and proper for the good of government, order and protection of person and property, and for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare of the municipality and its inhabitants, and as may be necessary to carry into effect the powers and duties conferred and imposed by this subtitle, or by any law; and WHEREAS, the City of Hackensack (“City”) wishes to amend Part II of The City of Hackensack Municipal Code entitled “General Legislation,” Chapter 90 entitled “Food and 11/23/2015 2 Drink,” Section 1, entitled “Provision of State Code” and Section 2, entitled “License required; exemptions” to reflect changes in state law; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK, as follows: SECTION 1: Part II of The City of Hackensack Municipal Code entitled “General Legislation,” Chapter 90 entitled “Food and Drink,” Section 1, entitled “Provision of State Code” is amended, such that it states: The provisions of Chapter 24, Retail Food Establishments, of the New Jersey State Sanitary Code, most recent revision in its entirety, are hereby recognized as being of full force and effect in the City of Hackensack. SECTION 2: Part II of The City of Hackensack Municipal Code entitled “General Legislation,” Chapter 90 entitled “Food and Drink,” Section 2, entitled “License required; exceptions” is amended, such that it states: It shall be unlawful for any person or any body corporate to conduct a retail food establishment, as defined in and governed by said Chapter 24 of the State Sanitary Code, without first having procured a license from the Health Department in accordance with Chapter 107, Licenses and Permits, and without complying with any and all of the provisions concerning operation and maintenance of such establishments as contained in the aforementioned chapter of the State Sanitary Code. SECTION 3: This Ordinance shall take effect upon passage, adoption, and publication in the manner prescribed by law. Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia x x Deputy Mayor Canestrino x x Sims x Keeling- Geddis x Mayor Labrosse x CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 482-15 FINAL ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 61-2015, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART II OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK MUNICIPAL CODE, ENTITLED “GENERAL LEGISLATION” TO AMEND CHAPTER 159, ENTITLED “TOWERS AND WRECKERS” This ordinance has been advertised pursuant to law and now calls for a public hearing. Will someone so move?” 11/23/2015 3  Motion offered by Councilman Sims and seconded by Deputy Mayor Canestrino that there be a public hearing. PUBLIC HEARING – Motion offered by Deputy Mayor Canestrino and seconded by Councilwoman Keeling-Geddis that the public hearing be closed. BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack, County of Bergen and State of New Jersey, that Ordinance No. 61-2015 has passed its second and final reading and is hereby adopted. CITY OF HACKENSACK ORDINANCE NO. 61-2015 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART II OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK MUNICIPAL CODE, ENTITLED “GENERAL LEGISLATION” TO AMEND CHAPTER 159, ENTITLED “TOWERS AND WRECKERS” WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:48-2, the governing body of a municipality may make, amend, repeal, and enforce such other ordinances, regulations, rules and by-laws not contrary to the laws of this state or of the United States, as it may deem necessary and proper for the good of government, order and protection of person and property, and for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare of the municipality and its inhabitants, and as may be necessary to carry into effect the powers and duties conferred and imposed by this subtitle, or by any law; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:48-2.49, a municipality may regulate, by ordinance, the removal of motor vehicles from private or public property by operators engaged in such practice, including, but not limited to, the licensing of such operators. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK, as follows: SECTION 1. The City of Hackensack Municipal Code, Part II entitled “General Legislation,” is amended such that Chapter 159, entitled “Towers and Wreckers,” section 4 reads as follows: § 159-4 Application for Official Tower license. A. Application for an Official Tower license shall be made to the City upon a form provided by the Police Department and shall contain all of the following information: (1) The name, business address, telephone number and federal tax identification number (where applicable). When the Official Tower is owned and operated by an individual, the name, social security number, residential and business addresses and telephone number(s) of such individual shall be provided. When the Official Tower is a corporation or partnership, the application shall contain the names, residences, telephone numbers, date of birth and social security number of all persons owning any interest in the Official Tower. (2) In the event that the Official Tower is conducting business operating under a trade or business name, the applicant shall submit a certificate of such name as proof that such name has been appropriately filed with the County Clerk's Office of Bergen County and/or with the Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey. 11/23/2015 4  (3) Any such information as may be required by the City concerning the personnel, vehicles, equipment and storage facilities of such applicant, as hereinafter provided, showing that the applicant meets the minimum standards of performance. This includes, but is not limited to, the street address of the applicant's Storage Areas, including a description of size and capacity; the address where the towers will be regularly garaged; and the telephone number(s) of the applicant such that contact will be available on a twenty-four-hour-per-day basis. (4) A certificate or certificates of insurance evidencing adequate insurance coverage as hereinafter provided. (5) A fee of $500 to cover the administrative expenses incurred by the City in processing the application. (6) The names and addresses of two business references not in the employ of the City who have known the applicant for at least two years and who can attest to the applicant's experience and performance in the towing, wrecking and storage business. (7) A list of all towing vehicles, including the make and model number, year of vehicle and vehicle identification number (VIN) and any and all other information that the City Council may deem necessary. No vehicle may be listed on more than one application, nor can there be a transfer of vehicles between towers. (8) A complete list, including dates of service, of all other municipalities, state agencies and/or governmental entities that the applicant is, or has been, an Official Tower of or held a towing permit from. No person applying individually shall be eligible for approval or appointment as an Official Tower of the City unless that person shall have been an official municipal tower with a minimum of three years' experience in municipal towing in any municipality of the State of New Jersey including a minimum of one year’s experience in municipal towing in any municipality in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey. No corporation or partnership shall be eligible for approval or appointment as an Official Tower of the City unless that business entity shall have been an official municipal tower with a minimum of three years' experience in municipal towing in any municipality of the State of New Jersey including a minimum of one year’s experience in municipal towing in any municipality in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey. (9) A complete list of all actions taken against the applicant by a governmental entity for the applicant's alleged violation of any towing ordinance or regulation while towing as a licensed or permitted tower for that governmental entity. If the applicant's towing license or permit has been revoked, suspended or denied, the applicant shall list each time, what governmental entity was involved and a brief description of the event(s) that led up to the revocation, suspension and/or denial of a towing license or permit. (10) Certification that the applicant will be able to provide towing services anywhere in the City within a maximum response time of fifteen (15) minutes. (11) Certification Storage Areas and services comply with this Chapter. (12) Certification of consent appointing the City Clerk as the applicant’s true and lawful attorney for the purpose of accepting and acknowledging service of legal process by any court of competent jurisdiction against the applicant. (13) A completed 'Voluntary Consent to Conduct a Background Investigation Authorization for Release of Information” form or such other forms that may be used for the purpose of performing a criminal background investigation of the applicant. Section 2: 11/23/2015 5  This Ordinance shall take effect upon passage, adoption, and publication in the manner prescribed by law. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Excused Battaglia x x Deputy Mayor Canestrino x Sims x x Keeling- Geddis x Mayor Labrosse x CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 483-15 INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 62-2015, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 04-2015 AN ORDINANCE FIXING AND DETERMINING MUNICIPAL CLASS POSITIONS AND SALARY RANGES FOR CERTAIN CONTRACTUAL AND NON-CONTRACTUAL OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK BE IT RESOLVED that the above ordinance, being Ordinance 62-2015 as introduced, does now pass on first reading and that said Ordinance shall be considered for final passage at a meeting to be held on December 8, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter can be reached at the regular meeting place of the City Council and at such time and place all persons interested be given an opportunity to be heard concerning said Ordinance and that the City Clerk be and she is hereby authorized and directed to publish said ordinance according to law with a notice of its introduction and passage on first reading and of the time and place when and where said ordinance will be further considered for final passage. CITY OF HACKENSACK ORDINANCE NO. 62-2015 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 04-2015 AN ORDINANCE FIXING AND DETERMINING MUNICIPAL CLASS POSITIONS AND SALARY RANGES FOR CERTAIN CONTRACTUAL AND NON- CONTRACTUAL OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK, as follows: SECTION 1. The salary ranges per annum for the following employees of the City of Hackensack in the Classified Service shall be as follows: CIVIL SERVICE SALARY RANGE 11/23/2015 6 TITLE MIN MAX Sanitation Driver $35,000 $55,000 Sewer Repairer Supervisor $ 55,000 $74,500 SECTION 2: All portions of Ordinance 04-2015 not explicitly modified by this Ordinance shall remain in full force and effect until such time as another salary ordinance is adopted by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack. SECTION 3: This Ordinance shall take effect upon passage, adoption, and publication in the manner prescribed by law. Council Intr Secon Abstai Excuse Member o d Yes No n Absent d Battaglia x x Deputy Mayor Canestrino x x Sims x Keeling- Geddis x Mayor Labrosse x CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 484-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TAX COLLECTOR TO CONVERT BELOW CHARGES TO PROPERTY LIENS WHEREAS, the Governing Body of the City of Hackensack finds and declares that N.J.S.A. 40:48-2.14 states in all cases where brush, weeds, including ragweed, dead and dying trees, stumps roots, obnoxious growth, filth, garbage, trash and debris are destroyed or removed from any dwelling or lands under any ordinance adopted pursuant to section 1 of P.L. 1943, c.71 (C.40:48-2.13) or section 1 of P.L. 1994, c.167 (C.40:48-2.13a); and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40:48-2:27 states in all cases where brush, hedges and other plant life are cut from any lands within the limitations of section one hereof under any such ordinance, by or under the direction of an officer of the municipality; and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40:65-12 states the governing body may make, amend, repeal, and enforce ordinances to compel the owner or tenant of any lands abutting upon the public highways of the municipality, to remove all snow and ice form the abutting sidewalks and gutters of such highways within twelve hours of daylight after the same shall fall or be formed thereon, and all grass, weeds and impediments therefrom within three days after notice to remove the same, and remove all grass, weeds and impediments from the portion of any street, or highway abutting on such lands, and to provide for imposition of penalties for violation of any impediments by the 11/23/2015 7 municipality where the owner or tenant of any such real estate shall fail to remove the same as provided in the ordinance. The cost of removal of any such snow, ice, grass, weeds or impediments from any sidewalk, gutter or public highway by the municipality shall be certified to the governing body of the municipality by the officer in charge thereof; and WHEREAS, by or under the direction of an officer or code enforcement officer of the municipality, such officer or code enforcement officer shall certify the above costs thereof to the governing body, which shall examine the certificate, and if found correct, shall cause the cost as shown thereon to be charged against said dwelling or lands; the amount so charged shall forthwith become a lien upon such dwelling or lands and shall be added to and become and form part of the taxes next to be assessed and levied upon such dwelling or lands, the same to bear interest at the same rate as taxes and shall be collected and enforced by the same officers and in the same manner as taxes; and WHEREAS, the City of Hackensack has maintained the following properties by providing grass and lawn maintenance to the said properties: 90 Ross Avenue Block 518 Lot 18 $ 135.00 208 Euclid Avenue Block 544 Lot 22 $ 135.00 275 Clay Street Block 338 Lot 09 $ 135.00 919 Main Street Block 570 Lot 31 $ 225.00 155 Summit Avenue Block 242.01 Lot 11 $ 135.00 60 River Street Block 402.01 Lot 10.01 $ 135.00 14 So. State Street Block 75.01 Lot 19.02 $ 135.00 290 Clinton Place Block 451 Lot 16 $ 175.00 117 Central Avenue Block 319 Lot 6 $ 135.00 40 First Street Block 227 Lot 12 $ 135.00 195 Clay Street Block 327 Lot 32 $ 165.00 141 Bonhomme Block 55 Lot 27 $ 155.00 107 Atlantic Street Block 220 Lot 31.02 $ 135.00 264-266 State Street Block 315 Lot 7 $ 135.00 485 Gardner Place Block 8.01 Lot 13 $ 135.00 309 Washington Ave. Block 32 Lot 24 $ 135.00 467 Parker Avenue Block 149 Lot 47 $ 135.00 464 Simons Avenue Block 139 Lot 13 $ 135.00 351 Anderson Street Block 448 Lot 42 $ 265.00 35 State Street Block 212 Lot 22 $ 135.00 208 Euclid Avenue Block 544 Lot 22 $ 135.00 423 Thompson Avenue Block 242.02 Lot 39 $ 135.00 90 Ross Avenue Block 518 Lot 18 $ 135.00 TOTAL $3,415.00 NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Governing Body of the City of Hackensack that the above charges are certified to the Municipal Tax Collector, Elisa Coccia, and she is authorized to convert the above charges to become a lien upon such lands. Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X 11/23/2015 8 Sims X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X  CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 485-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TAX REFUNDS BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that the proper officers be and are hereby authorized to make the following refunds for the reasons stated: AMOUNT BLOCK LOT NAME YEAR REASON $10,276.00 14 1.01 Schepisi & McLaughlin 2015 SBJ PA Attorney Trust Account For Creamer, JF & Creamer Brothers 473 Sylvan Ave Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 $66,759.00 39.09 22.02 Schepisi & McLaughlin 2015 SBJ PA Attorney Trust Account For 101 East Broadway 473 Sylvan Ave Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 $14,413.00 81 43 LASSER Lochman LLC 2015 SBJ Trust Account for For 83 Hobart St 75 Eisenhower Parkway Ste 120 Roseland, NJ 07068 $87,500.00 241 20 Nathan P Wolf Esq 2015 SBJ For Eiffel Tower Co-Op 673 Morris Ave Springfield, NJ 07081 $1,400.00 320 8 Michael I Schneck Esq 2015 SBJ Attorney for PRINCE EDWARD LLC 301 South Livingston Ave Livingston, NJ 07039 $8,750.00 407.01 34 Nathan P Wolf Esq 2015 SBJ For Eiffel Tower Co-Op 673 Morris Ave Springfield, NJ 07081 $5,600.00 436 1 Michael I Schneck Esq 2015 SBJ Attorney for 138 CLINTON PL LLC 301 South Livingston Ave Livingston, NJ 07039 $1,200.00 424 5 Humphrey, Delorise F. 2015 Overpayment 178 Stanley Place Hackensack, NJ 07601 Council Intr Secon Yes No Abstai Excuse 11/23/2015 9  Member o d n Absent d Battaglia X X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 486-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZATION FOR CANCELATION OF TRUST FUND BALANCES WHEREAS, certain Trust Fund Appropriation balances were established and dedicated to projects which are now complete; and WHEREAS, it is necessary to formally cancel said balances, so that the unexpended balances may be returned to each respective source or credited to the Current Fund; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack that the following unexpended and dedicated Trust Fund balances are hereby cancelled: Description Funded EDA Site Remediation $2,644.16 Commodity Resale System Expenditures $5,990.96 Section 312 Program Expenditures $485.62 Total $9,120.74 Council Intr Secon Abstai Excuse Member o d Yes No n Absent d Battaglia x Deputy Mayor Canestrino x x Sims x Keeling- Geddis x x Mayor Labrosse x CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 487-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZATION FOR CANCELATION OF IMPROVEMENT AUTHORIZATION BALANCES IN THE GENERAL CAPITAL FUND WHEREAS, certain General Capital Improvement Authorization balances remain dedicated to projects now complete; and 11/23/2015 10  WHEREAS, it is necessary to formally cancel said balances, so that the unexpended balances may be returned to each respective General Capital Improvement Fund or credited to General Capital Surplus, and unused debt authorizations may be cancelled; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack that the following unexpended and dedicated balances of General Capital appropriations are hereby cancelled: Ord # Description Funded Unfunded #10-13 NJDOT Improvements – Hudson/Main $27,122.18 #11-13 2013 CDBG Road Improvements $72,483.88 #09-14 Acquisition of Fire Ladder Truck $521.34 #16-14 2014 CDBG Road Improvements $86,682.59 #22-14 Acquisition of Police / Court Equipment $25.30 #29-14 Improvements to Columbus Park $3,252.88 #32-14 Improvements to Pulaski Park $20,395.20 Total $24,194.72 $186,288.65 Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X Keeling - Geddis X X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 488-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZATION FOR DEDICATION BY RIDER – OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT OF OFF-DUTY POLICE OFFICERS 11/23/2015 11  WHEREAS, permission is required of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services for approval as a dedication by rider of revenues received by a municipality when the revenue is not subject to reasonably accurate estimates in advance; and WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 5:30-15 provides for receipt of funds by the municipality to provide for the operating costs to administer this act; and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-39 provides the dedicated revenues anticipated from the outside employment of off-duty Police Officers are hereby anticipated as revenue and are hereby appropriated for the purpose to which said revenue is dedicated by statute or other legal requirement. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack as follows: 1. The Governing Body does hereby request permission of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to pay expenditures of the Outside Employment of Police Officers Trust Fund. 2. The City Clerk of the City of Hackensack is hereby directed to forward two certified copies of this Resolution to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services. Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X Sims X X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 489-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZATION FOR DEDICATION BY RIDER – ANIMAL CONTROL FEES WHEREAS, permission is required of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services for approval as a dedication by rider of revenues received by a municipality when the revenue is not subject to reasonably accurate estimates in advance; and WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 5:30-15 provides for receipt of funds by the municipality to provide for the operating costs to administer this act; and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-39 provides the dedicated revenues anticipated from the licensing of animals are hereby anticipated as revenue and are hereby appropriated for the purpose to which said revenue is dedicated by statute or other legal requirement. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack as follows: 11/23/2015 12  The Governing Body does hereby request permission of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to pay expenditures of the Animal Control Trust Fund. The City Clerk of the City of Hackensack is hereby directed to forward two certified copies of this Resolution to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services. Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 490-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TRANSFER OF 2015 BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS WHEREAS, various Year 2015 bills have been presented for payment this year, which bills were not covered by Year 2015 Budget Appropriations; and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-58 provides that amounts in excess of appropriations over and above the amounts deemed to be necessary to fulfill the purpose of such appropriations may be transferred to appropriations deemed to be insufficient during the last two months of the year and the first three months of the reserve year. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that the transfers in the amount of $795,000 be made between the Year 2015 Budget Appropriations as follows: FROM DEPARTMENT 5-01-20-120-120-200 Municipal Clerk – O/E $ 7,000 5-01-22-195-195-200 UCC Building Insp – O/E $ 7,000 5-01-22-200-202-200 Community Development – O/E $ 15,000 5-01-27-330-330-200 Public Health Clinics – O/E $ 5,000 Total $ 34,000 TO DEPARTMENT 5-01-20-100-100-200 Admin & Executive – O/E $ 8,000 5-01-20-150-150-200 Tax Assessment – O/E $ 20,000 5-01-26-305-306-200 Recycling – O/E $ 6,000 Total $ 34,000 11/23/2015 13  Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 491-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZATION FOR CANCELATION OF FEDERAL / STATE GRANT FUND RECEIVABLE & RESERVE BALANCES WHEREAS, certain Federal and State Grant Fund Receivables and spending Reserves were established and dedicated to projects which are now complete; and WHEREAS, it is necessary to formally cancel said balances; and WHEREAS, any excess in spending reserves will be returned and credited to the Current Fund; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack that the following Federal / State Grant Fund Receivable and Reserve balances are hereby cancelled: Description Receivable Reserve Energy Conservation Grant $6,804.00 $6,769.11 Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation $7,472.00 $5,976.50 ADA Curb / Ramp Improvement Grant $48,262.00 $36,567.12 Municipal Recycling Assistance Grant $12,746.19 Contracts / Accounts Payable $664.25 Total $62,538.00 $62,723.17 Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X 11/23/2015 14 Keeling- Geddis X X Mayor Labrosse X  CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 492-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REFUND FOR HACKENSACK HEALTH DEPARTMENT FOR BIRTH CERTIFICATE CORRECTION BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that the proper officers be and are hereby authorized to make the following refund for the reason stated: $30.00 is a refund for Birth Certificate Correction Refund to: Susie M. Lucinario 14 East Walnut Street Teaneck, NJ 07666-3927 Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 493-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF BILLS BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that the bills in the following accounts be and are hereby ordered paid: Current Fund $653,840.06 Grants 8,166.00 Payroll 1,563,049.08 Public Parking System 34,260.63 Capital 2,244,335.97 Escrow 21,053.43 Trust Account 86,009.24 Total Expenditures 4,610,714.41 Interfunds/Transfers $6,355,966.54 Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X 11/23/2015 15 Sims X X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X  CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 494-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RAFFLE LICENSE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that the following organizations be granted permission to conduct a Raffle in accordance with the applications on file in the office of the City Clerk: RA #2104 Hackensack Elks Lodge #658 Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 495-15 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK SUPPORTING THE EXTENSION OF THE HACKENSACK RIVER WALKWAY NORTH TO HACKENSACK RIVER COUNTY PARK WHEREAS, the Hackensack River is a vital environmental and cultural asset to the City of Hackensack and the region generally; and WHEREAS, the Hackensack Riverwalk has already been established in various locations in the City of Hackensack along the river; and WHEREAS, the Hackensack River and Riverwalk provide a myriad of recreational activities for City and County residents and visitors including fishing, boating, running, walking, bird watching and other eco-friendly and healthy pursuits; and WHEREAS, the city has received a number of requests to extend the Riverwalk to enhance the aforesaid recreational opportunities and further contribute to the overall quality of life and increased economic activity generated by eco-tourism; and WHEREAS, one of the aforesaid requests proposes a straightforward and inexpensive method to extend the Riverwalk to Hackensack River County Park; and WHEREAS, the aforesaid proposal is worthy of additional examination by City, County and State representatives; and 11/23/2015 16  NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey as follows: 1 That a copy of this resolution and the aforesaid proposal be sent to the Bergen County Executive with a request for him to forward a copy to any and all relevant County Departments and State Legislature representatives to examine the same and discuss with our City Manager and any other relevant City personnel. 2 That the City Manager review and examine any and all proposals to accomplish the goals set forth in this resolution and that he work with all concerned. 3 That a copy of this resolution be sent to the City of Hackensack Planning Board and Zoning Board. 4 That a copy of this resolution be sent to the Hackensack Riverkeeper. Council Intr Secon Abstai Absen Excuse Member o d Yes No n t d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrino X X Sims X X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 496-15 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RE-APPOINTMENT OF SPECIAL OFFICERS FOR 2016 CALENDAR YEAR BE IT RESOLVED, that the following individuals are appointed as Special Law Enforcement Officers in the City of Hackensack for the period of January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016: Herman Aguero Christhian Martinez Angelo Vicale Najee Anderson Capt. Dean Mattalian Ariel Vollero Anthony Avila Nicholas Mayer Slobodan Vuckovic Joseph Barbiera Sgt. John Monaco Timothy Wanco Armine Barjrami Mark Orlando Sgt. Scott Yound Oscar Barrea Jasmien Parra Vileta Zarate-Gonzalez Emilio Barroso Selba Perez Sam Zitomer Gjebar Begiri Tyler Perez Sgt. Michelle Campo Richard Poshkus Jose Celentano Erick Regojo Kevin Coletta Mike Reo Jose Colon Joselyn Robins Giovanni Debelli Ernesto Robinson Yorki Fernandez Robert Rossi Allan Gamarra Gregory Salvodon Jimmy Gerardino James Sanders Josh Jurik Laura Shakiri Nicholas Krentz Brian J. Smith 11/23/2015 17  Matthew Lia Sgt. John Squillace Ernesto Luna, Jr. Ryan Thompson Council Intr Secon Abstai Abse Excuse Member o d Yes No n nt d Battaglia X Deputy Mayor Canestrin o X X Sims X X Keeling- Geddis X Mayor Labrosse X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 497-15 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF HACKENSACK SUPPORTING THE GATEWAY PROJECT AND ROBUST FUNDING FOR THE NORTHEAST CORRIDOR WHEREAS, thousands of New Jersey commuters who use these lines face outrageous delays in service due to the condition of Hudson River rail tunnels, many commuting from Hackensack, and WHEREAS, these delays are frequent and can have catastrophic affects on the safety of our residents, as well as the economic development of our communities, home values and tax revenue for our municipality; and WHEREAS, Amtrak is estimating that the 105-year old tunnels have just another 15-20 years before collapsing and commuter cities like Hackensack are facing the prospect of losing residents to other regions of the New York metro area; and WHEREAS, the aforesaid conditions may lead to lower home values and lower municipal tax receipts, which support quality schools and vibrant communities; and WHEREAS, the City of Hackensack seeks to ensure robust funding for passenger rail in the pending highway and transportation legislation, as well as support for key provisions in the Senate passenger rail bill that will allow quicker action on the Gateway Project; and WHEREAS, investment in regional infrastructure to increase efficient commuter travel is essential to business growth and new job creation; and WHEREAS, the City of Hackensack supports legislation, including the Senate Passenger Rail Bill that would leverage federal funds to invest in passenger rail projects like the Gateway project and allow more flexibility for financing major infrastructure projects; and WHEREAS, the City of Hackensack also supports provisions that allow revenue from the Northeast Corridor to be reinvested in the Northeast 11/23/2015 18 Corridor. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey as follows: That a copy of this resolution be sent to New Jersey Transit and our State Officials. That a copy of this resolution be sent to the City of Hackensack Planning Board and Zoning Board. Public Comment A motion to open the meeting to the public was offered by Councilman Sims and seconded by Deputy Mayor Canestrino. Carolyn Davis- Hackensack- I have a question that I had bought up at the last meeting—Have you looked into the property next to Carver Park as possibly an extension for the park? The City Manager commented that his understanding was that the cost of that property would be an excess of $200,000 and that does not include the demolition required to that property. Did you present to the owner that the property may be used for the children in the park. The City Manager stated he spoke to him several months ago concerning looking for property to do a joint venture between several developers to provide low to moderate income housing and that is the price he was talking about. What about presenting it as another alternative for the park, for the children? If it is presented differently, he might do it for the children. The City Manager stated it was not presented as an idea for a park but it can’t hurt to ask him to consider. City Manager advised that he did speak to him about all the tax incentives which did not seem to spark any interest. He states he has worked deals where donating a portion of the value and they can use it as tax relief but that is up to the individual about the terms. The Mayor asked what is that property being used for now and what is stopping him from demolition? The City Manager replied saying it is a fairly large multi-family structure which is abandoned. Mayor commented saying he would pay less taxes if he demolished the structure and it would be a lot better looking. City Manager commented there are pros and cons to it. Mr. Williams- Hackensack- I have a question about that property north of the park. I understand at one time it had an EPA violation. What would you do now if it did especially if we are making a park for the kids? The oil from the junk yard has seeped into the ground. The City Manager commented that would be a cause of concern. Any property that the City would purchase or accept as a donation would have to go through a Phase 1 environmental study. If anything comes back with that, it would have to go through a Phase 2 before any acceptance of property. The property would have to be deemed clean. If it came back as contaminated, the DEP would deem a no further action letter. I would not recommend the City buying the property if it had a no further action on it unless it has been deemed clean. The forty-seven new special officers being appointed tonight will affect my taxes? The City Manager replied saying they are being re-appointed. They are our HCOPS and they are not paid. They are all volunteers and they help keep your taxes low since we use them at events and such. They are a resource, they do receive training and a lot of times they go on to become police officers. 11/23/2015 19 Railroad Place Resident- Hackensack- As far as that property on 2nd Street, it has been inspected by the federal government since it has been used as Section 8 property. It is just a matter of settlement with the owner to buy the property. I think also if you mention that it is for the kids the property owner will probably lower his price. The Mayor asked how long ago it was inspected since there might be a time limit on that. I believe it was within the past 6 years. The Mayor commented that the city would have to get some sort of guarantee from the federal government or the DEP that is was inspected and there is no further action required. We still need that certification because it will be our children playing there. Chris Coli- Hackensack- I would like to thank the Mayor and Council for correcting that problem with Eric Anderson’s property. We got the City parking spaces back. I happen to drive up Main Street tonight and I saw the Christmas decorations on the Green and they look tremendous. On the property for the expansion of the park, it’s a nice idea. Please notify the existing tax payers how much more they will pay in taxes to pick up a property that is taxable and add it to a park. It all sounds wonderful until those taxpayers get their tax bill. As always, I would really love to see that TV channel sometime before New Years so I can see the tree lighting program and maybe the Teaneck football game and these council meetings aired on public TV. Thank you. Kathleen Salvo- Hudson Street- The Veteran’s Day celebration was excellent. The tree on Main Street looks wonderful. On 76 Main Street, they took stuff off of the City property but didn’t take it off the Main Street side, the right of way is occupied by that fence and it should be only on the demolition side. If it snows, there is nowhere to put the snow. It juts out 3 feet because it isn’t on the same line as the street which is also hiding the businesses from sight on the street. There is nowhere for people to walk and they can’t pass each other and they will have to walk into the street. The bricks were left a mess and I heard they will fix them, I hope the insurance or property owner pays for that. Also, three decorative lamp posts disappeared and you have to find out where they are. An article in the paper said it will all take three years to be developed. It’s already been down from April to November which is almost a year and according to the article, another two to three years. I don’t think that wall will hold up another 3 years because it is not exterior plywood. There is no reason for the wall since there is no demolition or construction going on and no other site has had a hole. It is a liability to the City. No other area has been left like that and the whole area is a liability. The summer heat will affect it as well. Eleven other demolition sites in the past few years and no holes were left—it has always been filled. Keeping with that, I hope the Hudson Street parking request was considered because it is a business district. There are six businesses open on Sundays and the church as well and cars occupy both sides of the street. People are getting tickets because there is nowhere to park. There is the pizzeria, myself, the deli, two places on the other side, and the laundromat—all open on Sunday. The signs originally said one hour parking except holidays and Sundays then they changed it. In that business district, it is very important to say one hour parking because the people can’t park and can’t patronize the stores. I asked the traffic department for a fifteen minute parking sign in front of just my store. I got one for the Chinese place because we do have a lot of older people and it is very hard for them to walk from my lot to the doorway. I sent a letter in over a month ago requesting the fifteen minute parking just in front so the older people can line their cars up and walk right into the store. The other safety factor is River Street, it cannot have a crosswalk there and there are so many variables. If you’re headed north in the left lane and try to cut over, you do not expect to someone to be crossing. Not even 200 feet 11/23/2015 20 away, there’s a legal crosswalk at the light at the corner. It is for the safety of everyone because no one expects to see anyone there. Tonight I saw a guy try to dart across 4 lanes of traffic and no one saw him. It is crossing in the middle of the street, it is like jay walking. Cars are so focused on making that left; they don’t expect to see the person in front of their car. It puts people in danger and you should reevaluate it. The City Manager commented that River Street is a county road, it is under their jurisdiction. The county has a lot of say about what happens on their roads. Concerning 76 Main Street, four feet of sidewalk is required and that is what they have. The construction official can confirm that. The fence is there so it is stable and will not fall over. As far as the bricks, rather than replace those bricks where it is damaged, we will most likely remove some more and maybe put a planter there temporarily. We are looking at how to spend the money appropriately with the developers. There is no sense in fixing it if it may not be there in a few years. The last thing about 76 Main, I have had meetings with developers and reviewed plans which will be filed shortly with the Planning Board. That two years that the article is talking about is considering approvals and construction but the fence will be gone before then. There will be construction going on behind it, so it will need to be modified again. Those bricks and lamp post were paid for by taxpayer money, the insurance company should be reimbursing us and they should be replaced. I know it is our property but they destroyed it. The City Manager commented that an insurance claim was filed to replace them but there is no sense in replacing them if they are not going to end up being there in the long run and being modified. There might be a better design for the plaza that does not include them. The setback should be aligned with the natural set back of the buildings. He is way over the line with that fence and it is not legal.. There shouldn’t be a fence there with no construction going on. They must be using a different book because they are definitely not going by the Hackensack code book. Mr. Cerbo- Spring Valley Avenue- Carver Park, we really should honor him. Why not create a flourishing garden somewhere in the City for Mr. Carver? Was there ever an investigation cleared on that building on Main Street for the fire? The City Manager states he believes there was. I was really encouraged by the Morristown court ruling. If we can actually negotiate with the hospital, with our Mayor who works for the hospital, a great deal for us since they need to pay up now. I think it’s a good thing. I sent you both an email recently (City Manager and Mayor) about getting some of these developers to build a school or two since they can do it for a third of the price that we could. You must have a relationship with them since you are dealing with them so much. How about even having a school right in one of their buildings? Also, how about jobs for locals? Don’t give up because you haven’t negotiated jobs into those deals. Try negotiating again and go back to the developers and say let’s put some of our locals into these projects. Gentrification is in the air. If anyone doesn’t know what that means- property values are going to go up around the redevelopment and then landlords are going to raise the rent three times the amount you were paying. That’s what gentrification is. I have been to some Zoning Board meetings and there are no police at those meetings. People walk in and out of there freely. We have two, sometimes three officers at these meetings but why are there none at those? Also, I would like a list of donations to our officials from our developers or redevelopers. They must have donated to someone, campaigns, or pacts? I want that list and I will find it. Maybe Deborah can help me on this since she is on the council now, this whole five minute thing, we should have ten minutes up here. I’ve been asking the Mayor for a year now. I have another great idea why not hire an ethics official part time instead of giving everyone a legal take. I don’t mean that to 11/23/2015 21 disparage legal people but a good attorney could be the ethics official. When it comes to problems with employees, I think it’s a good idea. The Mayor advised Mr. Cerbo that his five minutes were up. Regina DiPasqua - Parker Avenue- That Morristown Hospital tax agreement, HUMC redid their agreement with us so I think we are shut out from that until we redo it with the hospital. We already signed an agreement with them so I don’t think we can capitalize on that. The corner of Main and Bridge Street you’re talking about possibly redoing it? Who is going to pay for it the City or the insurance company? The City manager replied we will be getting insurance money and then depending upon what the developer wants to do. It’s not his property. The fence was on City property. The City never vacated Bridge Street and made a lot there to make it legally a lot. Bridge Street was wide and it became narrowed and this whole part was cut off. It was never properly vacated and a lot was never made. We need to make a lot and not as a street. If you say it’s a street someone can drive over the pavers. It’s about time we do that so we know it is the City’s property and we know the boundaries. I don’t understand why the developer gets to decide what gets done on City property. You said it depends on what the developer will do. The Mayor commented as part of the rehabilitation plan which this is under, there is a whole section on streetscapes which the developer is responsible for. What we are saying at this time is we do not want to put money that the insurance is giving us and put it into something that is subject to change due to the rehabilitation plan. We do not want to redo that entire area when there is just a repair but under rehabilitation plan, streetscapes may change. I do agree that the property needs to be vacated and the City needs to create a lot. The City Attorney commented when you vacate a public right of way, you vacate the public’s interest in the property. You don’t always know what that is because it goes back many years. Having a street unless it has been owned by the City may burden the property in which it sits. Many are not owned by the city, they are public’s rights of way. Once you vacate it, you get rid of that burden. I would have to look into the ownership history in terms of the titles. The ownership has been in question. Those fences were over line but there is no line. No one created the line. We need to keep him on his property and do what we need to do with the City property. I’m hoping the building doesn’t come over that line. As far as the mural, there are ones I like and ones I don’t like but I don’t like that there is already graffiti there. It is writing or drawing in a public place without permission. Is Upper Main going to monitor it? It is only asking for more graffiti now that there is something there. The Mayor stated he was not aware of any graffiti there and asked if it is the work of the artist. It is not the work of the artist. It is written in Spanish “I Love Maria.” The artist incorporated it into her work but she did not write it. Now all these plans and artists were approved and someone comes along and writes something that wasn’t. It needs to be enforced. The Mayor commented it could have been written anywhere. If you catch someone in the act, then it can be enforced. City Manager advised it will be enforced the same way it would be if it was on any other property- public or private. Mayor commented you can’t compare artists with someone defacing it illegally. There is a difference- one is a crime and one isn’t. Before the murals were put up, no one did any graffiti on the wall. Eric Anderson- Hackensack- I want to thank the council for working with me through my time of fire, so to say. I’ve never had an experience of this magnitude. I know people are upset on how long it took but ten families lost everything to the fire, all based on a decision by an engineer to tear the building down which had nothing to do with me. It took extra time and money to go through everything and let those families get whatever 11/23/2015 22 belongings they could find. I appreciate that we could make this happen. As far as moving forward, we had a meeting with the City and we think we have an exciting project to come forward with. We are looking to get it all done quickly and get started in the spring. We still have to meet with the Planning Board. As far as the mural, we are excited to have it there and went out of our way to do something different. We have this fence and it may not be what Hackensack is used to but if you go to New York City or nicer areas of Connecticut they all have this wood fence at sites that are in some state of construction. We were given this opportunity to beautify this area as opposed to have an ugly chain link fence and I am a supporter of it. As far as issues behind the wall, we are leaving one section next to the adjacent property owner as a chain link fence so at any time a police officer can look back there to see if something is going on that shouldn’t be. Thank you and Congratulations to Debbie. Perry Jackson-167 Central Avenue- It is a wise idea to keep the public informed. Besides the internet, we have television and radio, we have other people helping other people and networking. Congratulations to Deborah. Thank you Mr. Sims for standing in as a representative for the council and helping me find my place. Buildings don’t last forever and certain things don’t reside over the ground. The whole idea of the property behind River Street, I think that’s a good idea because you have a way in and a way out, you can go to Essex Street or Hudson Street. Information is a crucial part to everything. You need to be able to have access to the library especially high school students. Where will the homeless people go? They don’t want to be vulnerable or outside the City so they will just wait and see how the plan goes. I’m just trying to find my part and stay out of trouble. There are many places for me to go like the library or the bus terminal for a few hours. Certain places are not going to be as vulnerable as other places. I see that we have started the process and I just hope that we complete it. Paul Nichols-Hackensack- Speaking of homeless, through social media I put up a list of things that people can go to for the Thanksgiving holiday. It is posted on the Freeholder Facebook page. There are many things for people to do over this holiday especially the Center. I really just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving. There are a lot of things for the community to do next week. The Center is going to have a big Thanksgiving meal. Thank you. Council Comments Councilman Battaglia- I agree that there should be a television channel to watch things like the council meetings on. We have been trying to get it done from the beginning but the Board of Education wanted to charge 350 dollars a month. Maybe in the next few weeks they will agree to let us use their service. We really want to do it, you can see by us having the videos on the internet. Be safe and Happy Thanksgiving. Deputy Mayor Canestrino- Mr. Cerbo, any donations made to any political campaign has to be documented with the State, so I’m sure you can go on to the NJ ELEC website and find a list. It is all very well documented as to anyone’s contributors to anyone’s campaigns. A couple people questioned the news about Morristown Memorial and of course as a City we are all watching that news. My understanding is that if any legislation changes on the way hospitals are judged, any agreement with HUMC would be up for renegotiation. We believe we have a very good agreement with Hackensack Medical Center but we will be watching this closely. We want to continue to pursue this in the most amicable and beneficial way possible for the city. At the last meeting we talked about should we have a change to the rubbish 11/23/2015 23 pick up. I know a lot of folks were concerned one way or the other. At this point, we are not making changes and we will still have twice a month pick- up. We will leave it for now and manage it but also look into a legal opinion as to what to do with apartment complexes or multifamily dwellings because that is where I think we see the most hardship with our sanitation department. Once we get that information, we will see if we can make some changes. Veteran’s Day it was very nice to see a big turnout and we had a great event to remember those who serve and enable us to live the life we live here. It is almost the end of the year so we have a lot of different openings on different boards and committees in the City government so folks who are interested in any way can go on the website. There is a list of boards that have openings and there are instructions. You really just need to file a letter of your intent saying you are interested and we will review them and make a decision by the end of the year. Those who are on the boards, please just send us a note saying you want to be reappointed or not. Also, there are some new boards that are looking for members. There is the Veteran’s Committee which Mike Melfi is heading. There is also the new Cultural Arts Board looking for members. Join us and be part of what makes the City great. I hope to see everyone at the December 7 th tree lighting ceremony, it is a great event. Happy Thanksgiving! We have a lot to be thankful for in our City this year. Have a great night. Councilman Sims- Last week we had our November Feast for senior citizens, we had over 200 happy senior citizens and they got to enjoy a nice warm Thanksgiving dinner. The school did a great job preparing the food. We have two businesses that opened up over the weekend—WaWa on River Street and a dry cleaner on Anderson Street. I got three or four people jobs already at the WaWa so I am happy for that. Our fall sports just came to an end and we are starting our winter sports- basketball, wrestling, and track. This is the last week to sign up for winter sports. Last but not least, the Food for Action Center donated a turkey so if anybody is interested see me after the meeting. Happy Thanksgiving! Councilwoman Keeling-Geddis- This past week I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the League of Municipalities convention in Atlantic City and I was able to go to a few sessions. They helped to build my confidence as a councilperson. I got a lot of information on community relations and redevelopment. I was very happy to be able to attend and I hope I can use some of that information and implement it during my time here. I want to start something during my time here by imparting an inspirational quote to inspire you, the community, myself and the Council. My first quote here says “Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those who give more.” As we approach the holiday seasons Thanksgiving, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, I think that was an appropriate quote. It’s by the author H. Jackson Brown Jr. Thank you all for coming tonight and Happy Holidays! Mayor Labrosse- The City Manager mentioned the City vehicle auction but also the County probation site has been a location with a lot of broken down and crashed vehicles. We reached out to the County about it and they are having an auction first week of December which will hopefully get rid of a lot of those vehicles and clean that area up. I was down at the League of Municipalities conference myself for three days. It is very important that your elected officials get down there and get to take classes. They have classes on everything from drug problems in your neighborhoods, to redevelopment, ethics and all sorts of stuff that is very important. We spoke about each individual City’s plans and how well they have taken off so far. Bayonne, Rahway and Hackensack were named the top 3 Cities in New Jersey by NJ Biz 11/23/2015 24 Magazine which was an honor for us to have. The one ordinance tonight supports the North East Corridor which is about the train going through Hawthorne and Hackensack and Paterson. These train lines which we are supporting are very important because as time goes on we want more people to use mass transit versus taking your car everywhere. As the City Manager pointed out earlier, we need to start thinking ahead about things like traffic situations in the City. Also, passing the resolution for the Riverwalk extension would be a great addition for the county and state. It’s a beautiful part of the river and park. Veteran’s Day was a great ceremony and was the biggest we have had yet. I’d like to thank Mike Melfi for coordinating it. We had some nice guest speakers and it was a really nice affair. Let’s speak about jobs, so far there were around 600 jobs created by the City projects. We ask the developers to hire Hackensack residents but we cannot demand it and we can’t force them. It would be unethical for them to hire just Hackensack people and it’s against the law. The artwork and murals, I love some and some I don’t but that is what art is about. It’s still art and you have to be able to appreciate that. I met with a lot of the artists the other day. The young man from Australia he did the mural of a Chief Oratam. He did his mural with a spray can, not a brush, and it really looks incredible. It was a great characterization of him. The plaza on Bridge and Main Street, if we can’t vacate it I still think we need to designate it as a plaza and separate it from the street and property line if necessary. When the restaurant was there, that area was open for outside dining, so moving along it really should be designated. Paul Nichols I want to thank him for all he has done. He is a young gentleman who was once homeless himself. He has done more for them himself than a lot of groups have and he doesn’t get paid for it. He has been there himself and walked the walk. I really appreciate what he has done out there. Back to Veteran’s Day, myself and the other guest speaker mentioned homeless Veterans. I said the amount was close to 8,000, he said it was 4,500 but no matter what number it is, it is still too many. They put themselves in harm’s way to protect all of us and now they are in harm’s way themselves on the streets. It is shameful that we cannot take care of those who protect us. With that I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. After 9/11, we were alert but I think we have become complacent. Now with the events in Paris, remember to stay vigilant. Don’t forget December 7th is the tree lighting! There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Approved by Mayor and Council on January 26, 2016. ______________________________________ Mayor John P. Labrosse, Jr. ______________________________________ Deputy Mayor Kathleen Canestrino 11/23/2015 25  ______________________________________ Councilman David Sims ______________________________________ Councilman Leonardo Battaglia ______________________________________ Councilwoman Deborah Keeling-Geddis _______________________________________ Deborah Karlsson, City Clerk 11/23/2015 26