Mayor & Council

MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON March 24, 2025 - 7 p.m. CALL TO ORDER The Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Madison was held on the 24th day of March, 2025. Mayor Conley called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., in the Committee Room of the Hartley Dodge Memorial, Kings Road, in the Borough of Madison. STATEMENT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT The Borough Clerk read the statement pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act: “In compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act, adequate notice of this meeting of the Council was provided by transmitting a copy of the meeting notice to the Madison Eagle and Morris County Daily Record, posting a copy on the bulletin board at the main entrance of the Hartley Dodge Memorial, and filing a copy in the office of the Clerk, all on January 9, 2025. This Notice was made available to members of the general public.” ROLL CALL The Borough Clerk called the roll and the following acknowledged their presence: Mayor Robert H. Conley Council Members: Rachael Ehrlich Robert Landrigan Eric P. Range Thomas Haralampoudis Melissa Honohan John J. Forte Also Present: Raymond M. Codey, Borough Administrator James E. Burnet, Assistant Borough Administrator Elizabeth Osborne, Borough Clerk Marina Stinely, Esq. for Matthew J. Giacobbe, Esq. Borough Attorney AGENDA REVIEW There was approval of the Regular and Executive Agenda. READING OF CLOSED SESSION RESOLUTION Ms. Ehrlich moved: RESOLVED, that the meeting be adjourned to an Executive Session to consider the following matters: MINUTES FOR APPROVAL (1) January 27, 2025 Date of public disclosure 60 days after conclusion, if disclosure required. PERSONNEL MATTERS (2) CHIEF LINEMAN BOROUGH CLERK STAFF Date of public disclosure 90 days after conclusion, if disclosure required. Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 CONTRACT MATTERS (1) POTENTIAL LAND PURCHASE Date of public disclosure 60 days after conclusion, if disclosure required. LITIGATION MATTERS (2) AFFORDABLE HOUSING DREW UNIVERSITY Date of public disclosure 60 days after conclusion, if disclosure required. Seconded: Mr. Landrigan Vote: Approved by voice vote RECONVENE IN COUNCIL CHAMBER Mayor Conley reconvened the Regular Meeting at 8 p.m. in the Council Chamber with all members present. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all. Mayor Conley asked for a moment of silence for the passing of the following Madison residents: Marion Siva Bass Kaufman, Clorina Barry Woodson, and Charles Courtney, Jr. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ms. Ehrlich moved approval of the Executive Minutes of January 27, 2025. Mr. Landrigan seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous voice call vote recorded. GREETINGS TO PUBLIC Mayor Conley made the following comments: Madison has been recognized as an Electric Vehicle Association's EV City of the Year for 2024. Mayor Conley noted the local impact from Washington DC, noting increased cost to projects such as the Heller Center and other public supported projects. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES Finance and Borough Clerk Ms. Ehrlich, Chair of the Committee, made the following comments: Ms. Ehrlich noted from the Tax Collector’s office that Senior Freeze booklets have had a makeover. They have been replaced by the new “P.A.S.” booklets which were mailed out by the State earlier this month to previous applicants. This new booklet has a single combined application for the Senior Freeze and Anchor, as well as the new Stay-NJ program, which provides additional property tax relief to qualified individuals. This eliminates the need to fill out multiple forms with different due dates. You may qualify for one or more of these programs if you are a homeowner or renter over 65 or who is receiving federal Social Security Disability benefits. The deadline to file is October 31st, and you can file by mail or online. The tax office has ordered blank booklets for first-time filers. For more information, please visit propertytaxrelief.nj.gov. Council will have a final review of the proposed budget this evening. The budget is one of the most important decisions that Council makes. The entire budget process revolves around the 2014 strategic planning guidelines. Second, introduction of Ordinance 7-2025, which is an ordinance to establish a Cap Bank. The State of New Jersey issued two laws that limit municipal spending. The first is a levy cap, which limits our tax increase to 2% but there are certain exceptions such as increases in Capital. The second cap is the Appropriations Cap which limits the increase in appropriations to a certain amount. However, if the Borough passes an ordinance, budget appropriations can increase by 3.5% with the difference being placed in a cap bank. The Cap Bank holds two years of excess PAGE 2 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 appropriations in it. Doing this gives flexibility to future Councils, should there be a sudden and significant increase in expenses such as rock salt, fuel, natural gas and alike. Ordinance 7-2025 will establish that Appropriations Cap Bank and we will be voting to introduce that ordinance tonight. Finally, the third important step taking this evening is the introduction of the official budget document. The process is very transparent with all presentations listed on Rosenet and all discussions available for viewing. This budget includes a 2% property tax increase, which is the equivalent is about $5.23 a month increase for the average home. R109-2025 will record our vote to introduce the budget. After the budget is introduced, state law mandates that it be available for public viewing for at least 28 days. The document will be on Rose net, at the library and in the clerk’s office. The Borough’s budget is under state review this year, a process we have to follow once every three years. Assuming all goes well with the state review, Council will then vote to adopt the budget at the Council meeting on Monday April 28th. Thanks to all the staff involved in this process, including all the Department Heads. Ms. Ehrlich also thanked Councilmembers for their insights, questions and comments. Public Safety Mr. Landrigan, Chair of the Committee, made the following comments Today, Police Department personnel took part in Every 15 Minutes presentation at Madison High School. The purpose is to teach students about the dangers of impaired driving. This presentation is given every two years at MHS. The presentation lasts today and ends tomorrow morning after a video presentation. On Friday March 21st, Madison officers and its school resource officers gathered at "Ridgedale Roast" at the Madison High School. "Ridgedale Roast" is ran by MHS students and serves coffee once per month. Officers were able to chat with school staff and students over coffee. On March 12th, Madison Police Command Staff met with members of Sustainable Madison along with Schumacher Chevy, to display the Chevy Blazer EV, which is in its early stages of production. Chief Miscia, Captain Longo, and Ptl. DiRocco were present from MPD. On April 9th, Chief Miscia will be speaking during National Crime Victim Rights Week at the Morris County Courthouse. Chief Miscia will be representing the Morris County Police Chiefs Association and showing support for victim's rights. The Madison Fire Department also took part in the Every 15 Minutes program at Madison High School. Chief Wickman and Captain Blair meet with school officials to continue to go over plans for the school construction project. The topics were on project timelines and student safety. On March 14th the Fire Department responded to Kings Street in Morristown to assist with a fire in an apartment building. After the fire our fire prevention/ investigation unit was requested to help with the cause of the fire. In keeping up with sink hole season, the department responded to a reported sink hole on woodland rd. this past Saturday. A 2-foot wide 20 feet deep. It appears to be an old well. Public Works and Engineering Mr. Range, Chair of the Committee, made the following comments: Mr. Range noted that the Madison Environmental Commission held an event March 13, 2025, regarding native plant enthusiasm. On Saturday, April 12th, Grace Church will hold a Repair Café, where residents can bring broken items, bicycles, lamps electronic products for repair. Mr. Range stated that the MRC Solar Carport project is underway, noting the parking lot is temporarily closed. The Asbestos removal project at the Heller Center is currently advertised. As well as the Memorial Park Trails Improvement bid. From the Department of Public Works, the Parks Department is preparing all fields for spring sports and made some repairs to field nets at the MRC. Mechanics are doing preventative maintenance / repairs on lawn mowers, field maintenance equipment and sidewalk sweeper. The Roads PAGE 3 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 Department has been patching potholes and repairing locations where the Water Dept. had to open the roadway. With assistance of the Electric Dept. the DPW installed an emergency call box / AED cabinet at Dodge Field Playground. Yard waste bags are available at the DPW Garage and Clerk's Office at HDM. Utilities Mr. Haralampoudis, Chair of the Committee, made the following comments: Mr. Haralampoudis noted three separate incidents in which a squirrel caused temporary power outages. JCP&L will be back at Kings Road substation on April 3rd to continue the repairs on the RN OCB. Work should be completed by 4/18/25. The Electric Department continues to respond to calls, completing mark outs, street light repairs, and daily substation inspections and readings. Community Affairs Ms. Honohan, Chair of the Committee, made the following comments: The next meeting of the Downtown Development Commission will be held on April 17th at 7:15 pm in the 2nd Floor Committee Room in the Hartley Dodge Memorial Building. The public is invited to attend. Planning is underway for Madison Green & Clean 2025. The event will be held on Saturday, April 26th. The event will include an EV Expo, a Vegan Fair, and other environmentally friendly vendors. This event will take place in the Prospect Street Parking Lot. There will again be a town wide cleanup. The sign-up form is available on the DDC page on Rose net. The 2025 Madison Farm & Artisan Market vendor contracts have been mailed. Prospective vendors should contact Lisa Ellis at ddc@rosenet.org. Upcoming Chamber of Commerce events include an Easter Fun Fest - April 12th, 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. Superhero Day, - May 3rd from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and the annual Ladies Night, May 8th. Events at the Madison Community Arts Center include Red Cross Blood Drive on March 26th, 12-5 pm, Brynn Stanley and her band will play a tribute show to The Beatles, Sunday, March 30th at 3:00 pm. Health Mr. Forte, Chair of the Committee, made the following comments: Mr. Forte announce that Westfield staff member George Kornias has been elected president of the New Jersey Environmental Health Association. Madison Health Officer Megan Avallone attended a meeting in Senator Andy Kim’s office to discuss the continued importance of Public Health. Six cats in Hunterdon County, have been diagnosed with H5N1. If your cat displays any symptoms, please contact your veterinarian. The health department recommends you keep cats in doors and away from birds. COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS The Borough Clerk announced receipt of the following communications: The following residents emailed Mayor and Council opposing the placement of a lighted billboard along Rt. 24 in the Borough of Florham Park. Denise Katz, Parkside Avenue Christina Pindar, Canterbury Road Jodi Zwain, Hoyt Street Tom Abitante, Canterbury Road INVITATION FOR COMMENT (1 of 2) Mayor Conley opened the meeting to the public for their opportunity to ask questions and make comments on those items listed on the Agenda only. Mayor asked that, upon recognition by the Meeting Moderator, each person give his/her PAGE 4 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 name and address in an audible tone of voice, for the record. He/she shall limit his/her statement to three (3) minutes or less. Claire Whitcomb; Fairwood Road, noted the annual Madison Green & Clean event will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025 and noted additional information is available on the Borough’s website. Since no other member of the public wished to be heard, the invitation for discussion was closed. INTRODUCTION OF THE 2025 CAP BANK ORDINANCE AND THE BUDGET AND TAX RESOLUTION R 109-2025 CAP BANK ORDINANCE Mayor Conley called up Ordinance 7-2025 for first reading and asked the Borough Clerk to read said ordinance by title: ORDINANCE 7-2025 CALENDAR YEAR 2025 ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK (N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.13) WHEREAS, the Local Government Cap Law, N.J.S. 40A: 4-45.1 et seq., provides that in the preparation of its annual budget, a municipality shall limit any increase in said budget to 2.5% unless authorized by ordinance to increase it to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, subject to certain exceptions; and, WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.15a provides that a municipality may, when authorized by ordinance, appropriate the difference between the amount of its actual final appropriation and the 3.5% percentage rate as an exception to its final appropriations in either of the next two succeeding years; and, WHEREAS, the Borough Council of the Borough of Madison in the County of Morris finds it advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2025 budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, in the interest of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the citizens; and, WHEREAS, the Borough Council hereby determines that a 3.5% increase in the budget for said year, is estimated to be $843,029.95 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and, WHEREAS the Borough Council hereby determines that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriations in either of the next two succeeding years. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris, a majority of the full authorized membership of this governing body affirmatively concurring, that, in the CY 2025 budget year, the final appropriations of the Borough of Madison shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14, be increased up to 3.5%, amounting to $843,029.95 and that the CY 2025 municipal budget for the Borough of Madison be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and, BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that any amount authorized herein above that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years; and, PAGE 5 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance as introduced be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services within 5 days of introduction; and, BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance upon adoption, with the recorded vote included thereon, be filed with said Director within 5 days after such adoption. Ms. Ehrlich moved adoption of Resolution 109-2025. Mr. Landrigan seconded the motion. There was no Council discussion and the motion passed with the following roll call vote recorded: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None Mr. Burnet noted the municipal budget process and several highlights of the proposed 2025 budget including the State guidelines for Introduction and Adoption. BUDGET INTRODUCTION Statement by Borough Clerk: Upon introduction and adoption, the 2025 Budget and Tax Resolution will be published by summary in the Madison Eagle on March 27, 2025 with a public hearing date set for Monday April 28, 2025 at 8 p.m., at which time and place all interested individuals will have an opportunity to be heard, and there will be consideration for final adoption. A copy of the budget as introduced will be filed with the Madison Public Library and the County Library, and posted on the Borough’s website for public review. R 109-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON ADOPTING THE 2025 BUDGET AND TAX RESOLUTION Ms. Ehrlich moved adoption of Resolution 109-2025. Mr. Landrigan seconded the motion. There was no Council discussion and the motion passed with the following roll call vote recorded: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None AGENDA DISCUSSIONS – None ADVERTISED HEARINGS Ordinances scheduled for hearing tonight were submitted in writing at a Regular meeting of the Mayor and Council held on March 10, 2025, were introduced by title and passed on first reading, were published in the Madison Eagle and made available to members of the general public requesting same. Mayor Conley called up Ordinances for second reading and asked the Clerk to read said ordinances by title: PAGE 6 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 ORDINANCE 5-2025 ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON ESTABLISHING CHAPTER 60 OF THE MADISON BOROUGH CODE ENTITLED “BATTERIES” TO REGULATE THE SALE AND STORAGE OF LITHIUM ION BATTERIES WHEREAS, the Borough of Madison seeks to maintain safety and security in the Borough by regulating the sale and storage of lithium ion batteries; and WHEREAS, the Madison Fire Chief has determined that the public should be protected from the increasing sale of fraudulent e-bikes, scooters and batteries. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Madison, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, as follows: § Chapter 60 Batteries Article I Sale of Lithium-Ion Batteries § 60-1 Definitions. § 60-2 Sale of second-use lithium-ion batteries prohibited. § 60-3 Unregulated lithium-Ion batteries prohibited. § 60-4 Restrictions for retail stores. § 60-5 Restrictions for specialized bike retailers ("bike shops"). § 60-6 Lithium-Ion battery charging restrictions. § 60-7 Violations and penalties. § 60-8 Enforcement. Article ISale of Lithium-Ion Batteries § 60-1 Definitions. For purposes of this article, the following terms shall be defined as follows: LITHIUM-ION BATTERY Is a storage battery in which an electrical current is generated by lithium-ions embedded in a carbon graphite or nickel metal-oxide substrate placed in a high- viscosity carbonate mixture or gelled polymer electrolyte. POWERED MOBILITY DEVICES Battery-powered transportation devices, including but not limited to E-bikes, E- scooters, and other similarly powered mobility devices. RETAIL STORE Business establishment within the Borough of Madison that is licensed to sell mobility devices, E-bikes, E-scooters, and replacement batteries to consumers. PAGE 7 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 SECOND-USE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY Is a lithium-ion battery that has been assembled, repurposed, reconditioned or renewed using cells removed from used batteries. SPECIALIZED BIKE RETAILER (or BIKE SHOPS) Retail stores within the Borough of Madison that exclusively sell powered mobility devices, related equipment and accessories, including but not limited to E-bikes, E- scooters, replacement batteries, and battery chargers. UNREGULATED LITHIUM-ION BATTERY Is a lithium-ion battery in a mobility device such as an electric bicycle or scooter that is not listed and labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or other approved organization such as the Underwriters Laboratories Mark (UL Mark). § 60-2 Sale of second-use lithium-ion batteries prohibited. A. It shall be unlawful to assemble or recondition a lithium-ion battery using cells removed from used storage batteries; and/or B. It shall be unlawful to sell or offer for sale a lithium-ion battery that uses cells removed from used storage batteries. § 60-3 Unregulated lithium-Ion batteries prohibited. A. The sale of batteries for mobility devices such as electric bicycles or scooters is prohibited unless such batteries have been listed and labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or other approved organization such as the Underwriters Laboratories Mark (UL Mark). B. Retail stores and specialized retail stores shall be prohibited from maintaining any unregulated lithium-ion batteries within its inventory located in the Borough of Madison . § 60-4 Restrictions for retail stores. A. Retail stores shall be prohibited from selling any powered mobility device, including but not limited to E-bikes, E-scooters, and replacement lithium-ion batteries for any such mobility devices that have not been listed and labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or other approved organization such as the Underwriters Laboratories Mark (UL Mark). B. The total inventoried stock of all mobility devices stored within a retail store within the Borough of Madison cannot exceed 50 devices at any given time. C. Retail stores shall only be permitted to display one uncharged model of any mobility device powered by a lithium-ion battery at any time. The battery for any such display devices within a retail store shall remain in its original packaging and shall be stored in a secured area within the establishment that complies with all safety requirements set forth in this article for lithium-ion battery storage and charging. D. All mobility devices, E-bikes, E-scooters, or other similar equipment that are powered by a lithium-ion battery must be sold in an uncharged state, in its original packaging. E. All mobility devices, other than display models, within the inventory of a retail store in the Borough of Madison shall remain boxed and safely stored in its original packaging at all times. PAGE 8 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 § 60-5 Restrictions for specialized bike retailers ("bike shops"). A. Specialized bike retailers are prohibited from selling any powered mobility devices, E-bikes, E-scooters, and/or replacement lithium-ion batteries for any such mobility devices that have not been listed and labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or other approved organization such as the Underwriters Laboratories Mark (UL Mark). B. Specialized bike retailers shall install a fire-resistant metal storage cabinet of sufficient size to hold as many E-bike batteries as in stock. The cabinet is required to have self-closing, self-latching doors with flame-arresting vents. C. All lithium-ion batteries stored in a specialized bike retailer are to be stored in the fire-resistant cabinet at all times except when the battery packs are being charged for delivery to customers. D. Specialized bike retailers are prohibited from charging any lithium-ion batteries while they are stored inside the fire-resistant storage cabinet. Lithium-ion batteries are only permitted to be charged immediately prior to delivery to the customer. E. Specialized bike retailers are required to have a monitored fire alarm system. If the building is more than one story or of a mixed-use occupancy, the monitored fire alarm system shall extend into the common areas of the building and basement. § 60-6 Lithium-Ion battery charging restrictions. A. Lithium-ion batteries shall be charged within a specialized bike retailer on a wheeled metal cart with a quick-disconnect function from a wall outlet. A surge proof power strip may be secured to the cart to accommodate the charging of additional lithium-ion batteries, if necessary. B. Specialized bike retailers shall have a thirty-two-gallon galvanized pail that is half filled with water, an eight-foot-by-eight-foot fireproof blanket, or a "Cell Block" lithium- ion battery containment tank in the immediate vicinity of the lithium-ion battery charging cart. C. Overnight and/or unattended charging of any lithium-ion batteries is prohibited. D. At least one Class A, B, C fire extinguisher shall be mounted within easy reach of the charging station to extinguish any possible fire extension. § 60-7 Violations and penalties. A person or entity who violates any section within this article or any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder shall be liable for a civil penalty as follows: A. For first violation, a civil penalty of $200. B. For each subsequent violation issued for the same offense within two years of the date of the first violation, a civil penalty of $1,000. § 60-8 Enforcement. A. The Borough of Madison Fire Prevention Bureau shall be responsible for performing inspections of all specialized bike retailers within the Borough of Madison every three months. B. The Borough of Madison Fire Prevention Bureau shall have the authority for the enforcement of all aspects of this article. PAGE 9 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 Section 9. Severability If any provision of this ordinance, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of this ordinance shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect. Section 10. Effective Date This ordinance shall take effect upon final adoption and publication in accordance with the law. Mayor Conley opened up the public hearing on Ordinance 5-2025. Since no member of the public wished to be heard, the public hearing was closed. Mr. Landrigan moved that Ordinance 5-2025, which was read by title, be finally adopted. Ms. Ehrlich seconded the motion. There was no Council discussion, and the motion passed with the following roll call vote recorded: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None Mayor Conley declared Ordinance 5-2025 adopted and finally passed and ordered the Clerk to publish the notice thereof in the newspaper and to record the ordinance as required by law. ORDINANCE 6-2025 ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON APPROPRIATING $500,000.00 FROM THE GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR 2025 MILLING AND OVERLAY PROJECTS WHEREAS, the Assistant Borough Engineer has recommended that the Borough appropriate $500,000.00 from the General Capital Improvement Fund for the milling and overlay of East Street, Dogwood Drive and Harwood Drive; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has attested to the availability of the funds in the General Capital Improvement Fund in an amount not to exceed $500,000.00 for this purpose; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council has determined that the Borough should appropriate $500,000.00 from the General Capital Improvement Fund for the milling and overlay of East Street, Dogwood Drive and Harwood Drive. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey, as follows: SECTION 1: The amount of $500,000.00 is hereby appropriated from the General Capital Improvement Fund for the milling and overlay of East Street, Dogwood Drive and Harwood Drive. SECTION 2: The budget of the Borough is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this Ordinance. PAGE 10 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 SECTION 3: This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by law. Mayor Conley opened up the public hearing on Ordinance 6-2025. Since no member of the public wished to be heard, the public hearing was closed. Mr. Range moved that Ordinance 6-2025, which was read by title, be finally adopted. Ms. Honohan seconded the motion. There was no Council discussion, and the motion passed with the following roll call vote recorded: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None Mayor Conley declared Ordinance 6-2025 adopted and finally passed and ordered the Clerk to publish the notice thereof in the newspaper and to record the ordinance as required by law. INVITATION FOR COMMENT (2 of 2) Mayor opened the meeting to the public for their opportunity to ask questions and make comments on any subject. Mayor asked that, upon recognition by the Meeting Moderator, each person give his/her name and address in an audible tone of voice, for the record. He/she shall limit his/her statement to three (3) minutes or less. Margaret Malichck and Molly Rose Polvoy: Fairwood Road, provided information regarding Arts Works in support of the Friends of the Drew Forest. Audrea Zulug; Central Avenue, thanked Mayor and Council for the safety of the Borough. Brian Monaghan; Green Hill Road, raised concern regarding a lighted billboard proposed at the MRC, along Rt 24 in Florham Park. Kristen Wallenstein; Westerly Avenue, noted harm to butterflies from artificial light and asked if the Council would consider a request to Florham Park for a repositioning of the proposed lighted billboard. Claire Whitcomb; Fairwood Road, noted light pollution is very harmful to insects, fireflies, moths. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES The Clerk made the following statement: The ordinance scheduled for introduction and first reading tonight will have a hearing during the meeting of April 14, 2025 in the 2nd Floor Council Chamber of the Hartley Dodge Memorial Building, Kings Road, in the Borough of Madison at 8 p.m., or as soon thereafter as practical, for further consideration and final adoption. Said ordinance will be published in the Madison Eagle, be posted at the main entrance to the Borough offices and be made available to members of the public requesting same, as required by law. Mayor Conley called up Ordinance 8-2025 for first reading and asked the Clerk to read said ordinance by title: PAGE 11 OF 20  Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 ORDINANCE 8-2025 ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AMENDING CHAPTER 185-31 OF THE BOROUGH CODE TO PROHIBIT STOPPING OR STANDING OF VEHICLES DURING CERTAIN HOURS ON EAST STREET FROM HOWARD STREET TO A POINT 350 FEET EAST THEREOF WHEREAS, the Madison Borough Police Department, due to public safety concerns, has recommended that Chapter 185-31 of the Borough Code be amended to prohibit stopping or standing during certain hours on East Street from the intersection of Howard Street, easterly to a point 350 feet east thereof, as follows: Name of Street Side Hours Location East Street South All From Howard Street to a point 350ft east thereof ; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council has determined that Chapter 185-31 of the Madison Borough Code entitled “Schedule III: No Stopping or Standing” should be amended in order to implement these changes; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Madison, County of Morris, State of New Jersey as follows: Section 1: Section 185-31 of the Code of the Borough of Madison entitled “Schedule III: No Stopping or Standing” shall have the following added to it: Name of Street Side Hours Location East Street South All From Howard Street to a point 350ft east thereof SECTION 2: This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by law. Mr. Landrigan moved that Ordinance 8-2025, which the Borough Clerk read by title, be adopted. Ms. Ehrlich seconded the motion. There was no Council discussion, and the motion passed with the following roll call vote recorded: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None CONSENT AGENDA RESOLUTIONS The Clerk made the following statement: Consent Agenda Resolutions will be enacted with a single motion; any Resolution requiring expenditure is supported by a Certification of Availability of Funds; any PAGE 12 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 Resolution requiring discussion will be removed from the Consent Agenda; all Resolutions will be reflected in full in the minutes. Ms. Ehrlich moved adoption of the Resolutions listed on the Consent Agenda. Mr. Landrigan seconded the motion. There was no Council discussion and the motion passed with the following roll call vote recorded: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None R 110-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON APPOINTING MICHAEL RIGGS TO THE POSITION OF CHIEF LINEMAN WHEREAS, the Electric Utility has a vacancy in the position of Chief Lineman due to a recent resignation; and WHEREAS, the position was posted and only one internal candidate applied; and WHEREAS, the hiring committee of the Electric Utility, Superintendent Vince Patti, Personnel Director, Sandy Emmerich, CFO/ Asst. Administrator Jim Burnet and Borough Administrator Ray Codey interviewed the candidate; and WHEREAS, the hiring committee has unanimously has recommended hiring Michael Riggs for the position of Chief Lineman in the Electric Utility Department; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council agrees with this recommendation. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Madison, County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that Michael Riggs is hereby appointed to the position of Chief Lineman in the Electric Utility Department, effective immediately, to be compensated in accordance with the current Collective Bargaining Agreement for Electric Utility Department Employees. R 111-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON CONFIRMING MEMBERSHIP OF EDWARD ARNOLD IN THE MADISON HOOK & LADDER COMPANY #1 WHEREAS, the Fire Chief has advised that Edward Arnold was voted into the Madison Hook & Ladder Company #1 as a volunteer firefighter; and WHEREAS, Section 18-27 of the Madison Borough Code requires that each person so voted shall be confirmed as a member of such division by the Council of the Borough of Madison. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey, that Edward Arnold is PAGE 13 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 hereby confirmed as a member of the Madison Hook & Ladder Company #1 effective immediately. R 112-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON ADOPTING A RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY FOR WHOLESALE POWER SUPPLY PROCUREMENT WHEREAS, the CFO/Assistant Borough Administrator has recommended the Borough establish a New Risk Management Policy for wholesale power supply procurement; and WHEREAS, the policy, recommended by PJM, addresses the management of material risks incurred by the Borough through wholesale power supply purchases; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council has reviewed the recommended policy and determined that it should be adopted. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey, that the Borough of Madison Risk Management Policy Related to Wholesale Power Supply Procurement is hereby adopted as set forth above and attached. R 113-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR AN EGG HUNT AT JAMES PARK ON SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 2025 WHEREAS, the United Methodist Church in Madison has applied for a special event permit for the use of James Park on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. for a community Easter Egg Hunt event; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council has determined that special permission should be issued the United Methodist Church, subject to all safety conditions from the Police Department. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris, State of New Jersey, that special permission is authorized for use of James Park on Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. subject to compliance with safety requests from the Madison Police Department. PAGE 14 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 R 114-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AUTHORIZING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT WITH DR. MATTHEW J. LETIZIA AS MEDICAL DIRECTOR FOR THE MADISON FIRE DEPARTMENT EMTS WHEREAS, the Madison Fire Chief has recommended the Borough retain the services of a physician to provide medical direction to the Madison Fire Department EMTS (hereinafter the “Contract”); and WHEREAS, said services are for professional services for which a contract may be awarded without the need of competitive bidding pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(a)(i); and WHEREAS, the Fire Chief has recommended that the Borough Council award the contract to Dr. Matthew J. Letizia as Medical Director for the Madison Fire Department, in an amount not to exceed $12,000.00 annually based upon his proposal attached hereto; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has attested that funds will be available in an amount not to exceed $12,000.00 for this purpose. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Madison in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey as follows: 1. The Mayor and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized to execute on behalf of the Borough a professional services contract with Dr. Matthew Letizia as Medical Director to provide medical direction to the Madison Fire Department EMTS in an amount not to exceed the sum of $12,000.00 annually, based upon his proposal attached hereto, which contract shall be in a form acceptable to the Borough Attorney. 2. The Borough Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of adoption of this resolution in the official newspaper of the Borough of Madison within ten (10) days of its adoption pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5. R 115-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AUTHORIZING THE MADISON FARM & ARTISAN MARKET FOR 2025 WHEREAS, the Downtown Development Commission has recommended to the Borough Council that the Madison Farmers’ & Artisan Market to be held at the Prospect Street Parking Lot on Saturdays from May 24, 2025 through December 13, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council recognizes that the Farmers' Market has been a welcome addition to the Borough in that it creates another community event which has been successfully run in the past; and PAGE 15 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey recognizes Farmers’ Markets as an essential business; and WHEREAS, the Borough Council finds that it is a benefit to the Borough of Madison and its citizens to allow the continued operation of the Farmers' Market. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Madison County of Morris, State of New Jersey, as follows: 1. A Farmers' Market is authorized to be conducted at the Prospect Street Parking Lot from Saturday, May 24, 2025 through December 13, 2025. 2. The Farmers' Market shall be conducted in accordance with the 1993 "Guidelines for Madison's Farmers' Market", as amended, as well as the Madison Farmers’ Market Regulations and By Laws, subject to the dates and times and other conditions set forth in this resolution. Farmers shall be allowed to sell agricultural products that are produced and sold on their farms, including eggs, pork, wheat flour and baked goods and the sale of field-grown and cut field flowers; however, the sale of potted plants, shrubbery or other landscaping products shall not be permitted. 3. The Farmers’ Market will allow vendors that hold a daily or seasonal State-issued limited brewery, craft distillery, farm winery or cidery license to participate. 4. The requirements of the Peddling and Soliciting Ordinance (Chapter 139 of the Madison Borough Code) shall not apply to the Farmers' Market as authorized by Chapter 139-13(c). 5. The requirements of the Sign Ordinance (Chapter 195 of the Madison Borough Code) shall not apply to the extent that the Farmers' Market shall be permitted to have signs as utilized in previous years; 6. The requirements of the Parking Ordinance (Chapter 195 of the Madison Borough Code) shall not apply to the extent that there shall be two (2) hour parking during market hours in areas denoted as one-hour parking. 7. In the event of a date conflict with a traditional community event (e.g. Bottle Hill Day), the traditional event shall take precedence in the use of the Prospect Street Parking Lot. R 116-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON DECLARING MADISON GREEN & CLEAN DAY 2024 TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025 WHEREAS, the Director of Business Development has recommended to the Borough Council that the annual Madison Green & Clean (formerly known as May PAGE 16 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 Day) event be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a focus on Eco-Friendly initiatives including the Sustainable Madison EV Expo; and WHEREAS, the Madison Green & Clean event provides an annual opportunity for volunteers to assist in the beautification and maintenance of our public places with the support of the Department of Public Works, thereby fostering a sense of community spirit; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council endorse and commend such activity for the benefit of the Borough. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Madison, County of Morris, and State of New Jersey, that Green & Clean Day will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 (Rain Date, Sunday, April 27, 2025). R 117-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AUTHORIZING A MORRIS COUNTY TRAIL CONSTRUCTION GRANT APPLICATION WHEREAS, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners authorized the creation of the Trail Construction Grant Program (hereinafter “Program”) to provide funding to any of its 39 municipalities for recreational trail construction projects; and WHEREAS, the Program is funded through the Morris County Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund and requires a 20% match from applicants through a financial contribution or in-kind services; and WHEREAS, the Borough of Madison is submitting a grant to the Morris County Trail Construction Grant Program for a project entitled Summerhill Park Trails. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the governing body of the Borough of Madison does hereby authorize the preparation and submission of a Morris County Trail Construction Grant Application. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the governing body of the Borough of Madison authorizes the expenditure of the required 20% match for this grant through the Open Space Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund and Borough operating funds. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and governing body of Borough of Madison acknowledge the grant program will operate on a PAGE 17 OF 20  Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 reimbursement basis only and agree to provide full advance funding to complete the proposed project. R 118-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AUTHORIZING 2024 BUDGET TRANSFERS WHEREAS, certain transfers of funds for various 2024 budget appropriations are necessary to cover unanticipated expenditures; and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-58 provides for transfer of appropriations with an excess over and above the amount deemed necessary to fulfill their purposes to those appropriations deemed to be insufficient; and WHEREAS, the appropriations subject to fund transfers hereby are not within those restricted by N.J.S.A. 40A:4-58 for transfer purposes. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by an affirmative vote of the members of the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris, New Jersey, that the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to make transfers Department Requesting Amount Department Supplying Amount Transfer in Requested Reason for Request Funds Transferred “PERS Pension System” State issued retroactive “Electricity” 36-471-540, $20,000 charge from prior year 430-519 $20,000 FCOA 36-471 pension payments FCOA 31-435-2 between appropriation accounts of the 2024 Municipal Budget as follows: R 119-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON ACCEPTING THE IRREVOCABLE RESIGNATION OF DEPUTY BOROUGH CLERK CARIDAD REYES WHEREAS, Deputy Borough Clerk, Caridad Reyes, has advised the Borough in writing of her irrevocable resignation effective March 28, 2025. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey, that the irrevocable resignation of Deputy Clerk Caridad Reyes, is hereby acknowledged and accepted. R 120-2025 RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MADISON AWARDING CONTRACT FOR TREE PRUNING AND REMOVAL SERVICES TO HONOR TREE SERVICE, INC. OF MADISON, NEW JERSEY WHEREAS, the Borough of Madison publicly advertised for bids for Tree Pruning and Removal Services Rebid for 2025 (the "Contract") in accordance with the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1, et seq.; and PAGE 18 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 WHEREAS, Honor Tree Service, Inc., of Madison, New Jersey, was the lowest responsible, responsive bid, submitting a bid in the amount of $87.00 per hour for request one and $87.00 per hour for request two; and WHEREAS, the Qualified Purchasing Agent and Borough Attorney have recommended that the Contract be awarded to Honor Tree Service, Inc., in the amount of $34,480.00, as the basis of award; and WHEREAS, funds are available in the 2025 Shade Tree Management Board Budget, or in any other account that may be deemed appropriate by the Chief Financial Officer or his designee, and the availability of funds has been contingently certified by the Chief Financial Officer pending approval of the 2025 budget. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Madison, in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey, as follows: 1. The contract for Tree Pruning and Removal Services 2025 is hereby awarded to Honor Tree Service, Inc. based upon its bid in the amount of $34,480.00, as the basis of the award. 2. The Mayor and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed on behalf of the Borough to enter into the contract with Honor Tree Service, Inc. in a form acceptable to the Borough Attorney. UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None APPROVAL OF VOUCHERS On motion by Ms. Ehrlich, seconded by Mr. Landrigan and carried, the following vouchers of the Borough of Madison were approved for payment, and the supporting documentation of said vouchers was made part of the Supplemental Minute Book. Current Fund $4,482,549.06 General Capital Fund 111,763.72 Electric Operating Fund 512,465.48 Electric Capital Fund 0.00 Water Operating Fund 26,513.00 Water Capital Fund 52,144.92 Trusts 24,730.15 Total $5,210,160.33 The following roll call vote was recorded approving the aforementioned vouchers: Yeas: Ms. Ehrlich, Mr. Landrigan, Mr. Range, Mr. Haralampoudis, Ms. Honohan, Mr. Forte Nays: None PAGE 19 OF 20 Regular Meeting Minutes – March 24, 2025 NEW BUSINESS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION Adam Reitz, Green Village Road, Chamber of Commerce Member, through December 31, 2027. ADJOURN There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth Osborne Borough Clerk Approved September 24, 2025 (EO) PAGE 20 OF 20