Mayor & Council Meeting

BOROUGH OF METUCHEN COUNCIL MINUTES June 9, 2025 7:30 PM The Regular Meeting of the Borough Council was held in the Council Chambers of Borough Hall on June 9, 2025. The Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Mayor Busch. Mayor Busch stated that adequate notice of meeting was published in the Home News Tribune on December 18, 2024, posted in Borough Hall, on file in the Clerk’s Office, and that all requirements of the Open Public Meetings Act had been satisfied. Mayor Busch asked everyone to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll Call Mayor Busch asked the Clerk for a roll call. Present were Councilmembers Branch, Giamboi, Hyman, Jethwani, Council President Delia, and Mayor Busch. Councilmember Kandel was absent. Also present were Borough Administrator Melissa Perilstein, Borough Clerk Deborah Zupan, and Borough Attorney Denis Murphy. Agenda Session Council President Delia made a motion to open the Agenda Session, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. With no action taken, Council President Delia made a motion to close the Agenda Session, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. Public Comment Mayor Busch opened Public Comment to any members of the public wishing to speak. Sean Dacey, 21 Station Place, commented that the town has become a destination with increased visitors, many of whom have a hard time navigating the streets safely. He noted that he and his wife had almost been hit by a car on more than one occasion at the Main and New Street intersection and offered suggestions for improving pedestrian safety. Council President Delia responded that pedestrian safety improvements at this intersection would be made with upcoming NJDOT grants. A longtime resident of Franklin Square commented that the pedestrian crossing button were Center Street crosses Main Street has been broken for some time, making it very difficult to cross safely, and offered suggestions for improving pedestrian safety. Mayor Busch responded that he had not been aware that the signal was still not working and that he would look into it. Samhita Bairy, a student at JP Stevens High School and a member of the New Jersey Student Sustainability Commission, requested that Council consider adopting a resolution in support of the New Jersey Climate Superfund Act. Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Busch closed the Public Comment. Borough Council Meeting Minutes Council President Delia made a motion to approve the Borough Council Meeting Minutes of April 28, 2025, second by Councilmember Giamboi. Councilmember Hyman abstained from voting. With all others in favor, motion carried, 4-0. Communications Consent Agenda – Items A- G Council President Delia made a motion to open the approve Communications Consent Agenda Items A through G, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 A. Receive and Accept Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2025 B. Receive and Accept Historic Preservation Committee Meeting Minutes April 24, 2025 C. Receive and Accept Human Relations Commission Meeting Minutes January 14, 2025, February 4, 2025, and March 4, 2025 D. Receive and Accept Library Board Meeting Minutes of April 8, 2025 E. Receive and Accept Zoning Board Meeting Minutes of April 10, 2025 F. Receive and Accept Zoning Board Annual Report 2024 G. Receive and Approve Block Party-Street Closing for West Walnut Street, June 28, 2025 2025 Municipal Budget – Public Hearing Council President Delia made a motion to approve Resolution 2025-162, to read the Budget by title only, and 2025-162, certifying Equal Opportunity compliance, second by Councilmember Giamboi with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0 RESOLUTION 2025-162 RESOLUTION TO READ THE BUDGET BY TITLE ONLY AT THE PUBLIC HEARING WHEREAS, N.J.S.40A:4-8 provides that the budget be read by title only, at the time of the public hearing, if a resolution is passed by not less than a majority of the full Governing Body, providing that at least one week prior to the date of hearing, a complete copy of the approved budget as advertised has been posted in the Borough Hall, a copy has been posted on the official website and copies have been made available by the Clerk to persons requiring them; and WHEREAS, these conditions have been met. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the budget shall be read by title only. RESOLUTION 2025-163 RESOLUTION OF GOVERNING BODY CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE UNITED STATES EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION’S “ENFORCEMENT GUIDANCE ON THE CONSIDERATION OF ARREST AND CONVICTION RECORDS IN EMPLOYMENT DECISIONS UNDER TITLE VII OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964” WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5 as amended by P.L. 2017, c.183 requires the governing body of each municipality and county to certify that their local unit’s hiring practices comply with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s “Enforcement Guidance on the Consideration of Arrest and Conviction Records in Employment Decisions Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 2000e et seq., (April 25, 2012) before submitting its approved annual budget to the Division of Local Government Services in the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs; and WHEREAS, the members of the governing body have familiarized themselves with the contents of the above-referenced enforcement guidance and with their local unit’s hiring practices as they pertain to the consideration of an individual’s criminal history, as evidenced by the group affidavit form of the governing body attached hereto. -3- NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen hereby states that it has complied with N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5, as amended by P.L. 2017, c.183, by certifying that the local unit’s hiring practices comply with the above-referenced enforcement guidance and hereby directs the Clerk to cause to be maintained and available for inspection a certified copy of this resolution and the required affidavit to show evidence of said compliance. Council President Delia made a motion to accept the CFO Certification of the Approved Budget, second by Councilmember Giamboi with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0 2025 Budget MUNICIPAL BUDGET FOR THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN, COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX, FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2025 Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 Council President Delia asked the Clerk to read the Budget by title only. Ms. Zupan read the budget by title only. Mayor Busch opened the public hearing for the 2025 Municipal Budget. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Busch closed the public hearing. Council President Delia made a motion to pass the 2025 Municipal Budget on second reading, second by Councilmember Giamboi with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0 Mayor Busch asked for a roll call vote. Roll Call: Yeas: Branch, Giamboi, Hyman, Jethwani, Delia Nays: None The 2025 Municipal Budget was passed on second reading, 5-0. Ordinances – Public Hearing Ord. 2025-11 ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 93 OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN ENTITLED, “FIRE PREVENTION”, SPECIFICALLY §93-10 ENTITLED, “REGISTRATION FEES” Council President Delia asked that Ordinance 2025-11 be read by title only. Ms. Zupan read Ordinance 2025-11 by title only. Mayor Busch opened the public hearing. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Busch closed the public hearing. Council President Delia made a motion that Ordinance 2025-11 be passed on second reading and be published according to law, second by Councilmember Giamboi. Mayor Busch asked for a roll call vote. Roll Call: Yeas: Branch, Giamboi, Hyman, Jethwani, Delia Nays: None Ordinance 2025-11 was passed on second reading, 5-0 and will be published according to law. ORDINANCE 2025-11 Borough of Metuchen County of Middlesex State of New Jersey ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 93 OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN ENTITLED, “FIRE PREVENTION”, -4- SPECIFICALLY §93-10 ENTITLED, “REGISTRATION FEES” WHEREAS, Chapter 93 of the Code of the Borough of Metuchen governs Fire Prevention in the Borough of Metuchen and provides for the local enforcement of the Uniform Fire Safety Act and the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code; and WHEREAS, the Fire Official and the Administration of the Borough of Metuchen has reviewed and evaluated the current Fire Prevention registration and inspection fees with surrounding municipalities, along with the time and costs of enforcement and recommend that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen amend Chapter 93 of the Code of the Borough of Metuchen, specifically § 93-10, entitled “Registration fees” to update the Registration fees; WHEREAS, the Mayor and council of the Borough of Metuchen have determined that it is in the best interest of the Borough of Metuchen to amend Chapter 93 of the Code of the Borough of Metuchen, specifically § 93-10, entitled “Registration fees” to update the Registration fees. Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 NOW THEREFOR BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby amends Chapter 93 of the Code of the Borough of Metuchen, specifically § 93-10, entitled “Registration fees” of the Code of the Borough of Metuchen to state as follows: § 93-10. Registration and Inspection fees. The owners of all businesses, occupancies, buildings, structures or premises required to be inspected under this section shall apply annually with the local enforcing agency for a certificate of registration upon forms provided by the fire official. The term of the annual registration requirement shall run from July 1st through June 30th. This requirement does not apply to life hazard uses registered pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:70. The following non-life-hazard uses shall register with the Bureau of Fire Prevention and pay an annual registration and inspection fee, according to the following schedule: A. Fees. (1) Mercantile / Retail / Banking / Personal Care: Up to 1,000 square feet of occupiable space: $75.00 1,001 square feet to 1,999 square feet of occupiable space: $100.00 2,000 square feet to 3,500 square feet of occupiable space $125.00 3,501 square feet to 4,999 square feet of occupiable space $200.00 5,000 square feet to 11,999 square feet of occupiable space $300.00 12,000 square feet to 100,000 square feet of occupiable space $600.00 (2) Factories, Assembly Plants, Wood and Metal Shops: Up to 1,000 square feet of occupiable space: $100.00 1,001 square feet to 1,999 square feet of occupiable space: $150.00 2,000 square feet to 3,500 square feet of occupiable space $250.00 3,501 square feet to 4,999 square feet of occupiable space $400.00 5,000 square feet to 11,999 square feet of occupiable space $500.00 (3) Warehouse, Storage (No Assembly) Manufacturing or Retailing: Up to 1,000 square feet of occupiable space: $100.00 1,001 square feet to 1,999 square feet of occupiable space: $150.00 2,000 square feet to 3,500 square feet of occupiable space $200.00 3,501 square feet to 4,999 square feet of occupiable space $250.00 5,000 square feet to 11,999 square feet of occupiable space $400.00 12,000 square feet to 100,000 square feet of occupiable space $600.00 (4) Business / Office: -5- Up to 1,000 square feet of occupiable space: $ 50.00 1,001 square feet to 1,999 square feet of occupiable space: $125.00 2,000 square feet to 3,500 square feet of occupiable space $175.00 3,501 square feet to 4,999 square feet of occupiable space $200.00 5,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet of occupiable space $250.00 (5) Residential / Multiple Dwellings (three or more dwelling units): One (1) Single Family rental (non-owner occupied) $ 75.00 Two (2) Family Rental or Duplex (non-owner occupied) $ 100.00 Three (3) Family – Five (5) Family $ 50.00 per dwelling unit Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 Apartment Complexes (6-10 units) $250.00 Apartment Complexes (11-24 units) $350.00 Apartment Complexes (25-50 units) $500.00 Apartment Complexes (51-74 units) $650.00 Apartment Complexes (75-124 units) $800.00 Apartment Complexes (125-199 units) $950.00 Apartment Complexes (200-249 units) $1,200.00 Apartment Complexes (250-299 units) $1,500.00 (6) Other Use: $125 minimum inspection fee. B. Landlord Registration. Every landlord shall register with the Borough of Metuchen, as provided for in N.J.S.A. 46:8-28, et seq., and pay the registration and inspection fees set forth above. C. Uses not classified above that are subject to the Uniform Fire Code will be classified as business uses. D. Uses required to register with the State as life-hazard uses shall not be required to register under this section. E. In the discretion of the Fire Official, vacant buildings will be charged and inspected according to the previous use of the building and in accordance with Chapter 139 of the Borough Code. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council that existing registrations required under Chapter 93 of the Code shall be extended from May 31st to June 30th; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council that all prior ordinances, or sections of ordinances, resolutions and Borough actions inconsistent with the within ordinance are hereby repealed; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council that all remaining sections of Chapter 93 not amended herein shall not be affected thereby and shall remain in full force and effect; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council that if any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance shall be declared invalid for any reason whatsoever, such decision shall not affect the remaining portions of this Ordinance, which shall continue in full force and effect, and to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby declared to be severable; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council that this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon final passage and publication as provided by law. Ord. 2025-12 BOND ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $3,601,913 AND AUTHORIZING $2,910,000 BONDS -6- OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS AND PURPOSES AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN, IN THE COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX, NEW JERSEY Council President Delia asked that Ordinance 2025-12 be read by title only. Ms. Zupan read Ordinance 2025-12 by title only. Mayor Busch opened the public hearing. Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Busch closed the public hearing. Council President Delia made a motion that Ordinance 2025-12 be passed on second reading and be published according to law, second by Councilmember Giamboi. Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 Mayor Busch asked for a roll call vote. Roll Call: Yeas: Branch, Giamboi, Hyman, Jethwani, Delia Nays: None Ordinance 2025-12 was passed on second reading, 5-0 and will be published according to law. BOND ORDINANCE 2025-12 Borough of Metuchen County of Middlesex State of New Jersey BOND ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $3,601,913 AND AUTHORIZING $2,910,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS AND PURPOSES AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN, IN THE COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX, NEW JERSEY BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN, IN THE COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two-thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. The improvements described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance are hereby respectively authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by the Borough of Metuchen, New Jersey (the “Borough”). For the said improvements or purposes stated in said Section 3, there is hereby appropriated the sum of $3,601,913, said sum being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefor and including (i) the sum of $185,000 as the down payment for said improvements or purposes required by law and more particularly described in said Section 3 and now available therefor by virtue of provision in a previously adopted budget or budgets of the Borough for down payment or for capital improvement purposes, and (ii) grants from the New Jersey Department of Transportation in the amount of $506,913 (the “Grants”). Section 2. For the financing of said improvements or purposes and to meet the part of said $3,601,913 appropriation not provided for by application hereunder of said down payment, the Grants, and capital developer contribution reserves, negotiable bonds of the Borough are hereby authorized to -7- be issued in the principal amount of $2,910,000 pursuant to the Local Bond Law of New Jersey, constituting Chapter 2 of Title 40A of the New Jersey Statutes (the “Local Bond Law”). In anticipation of the issuance of said bonds and to temporarily finance said improvements or purposes, negotiable notes of the Borough in a principal amount not exceeding $2,910,000 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by the Local Bond Law. Section 3. (a) The improvements hereby authorized and the purposes for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued are: (i) acquisition of a multi-use mower/snow removal equipment, Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 snow salters, equipment trailer, garbage truck tippers and mechanics diagnostic computer; (ii) cameras for various municipal and park/open space locations; (iii) digitization of records and GIS stormwater/sanitary sewer mapping; (iv) acquisition of a police vehicle, rifles and tasers; (v) technology upgrades including to computers, servers, and laptops, and related peripherals; (vi) acquisition of fire department turnout gear, vehicle, apparatus and equipment; (vii) overlay, drainage improvement and reconstruction of Whitman Avenue, Spear Street, Hollywood Avenue, Hanson Avenue, Volkmar Place, Dellwood Road, Bissett Place and Connor Avenue; (viii) curb/sidewalk repair and/or ADA concrete/curbing improvements of various streets, including without limitation, Whitman Avenue, Spear Street and Hollywood Avenue; and (ix) sewer line and infrastructure repairs and replacement, including all work and materials necessary for or incidental to each of the foregoing purposes and improvements. (b) The estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for said purposes is $2,910,000. (c) The estimated cost of said purposes is $3,601,913, which represents the initial appropriation made by the Borough. The excess of the appropriation of $3,601,913 over the estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued therefor is the amount of the Grants and the down payment for said purposes. Section 4. The following matters are hereby determined, declared, recited, and stated: (a) The said purposes described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance are not current expenses and are properties or improvements which the Borough may lawfully acquire or make as general improvements, and no part of the cost thereof has been or shall be specially assessed on property specially benefited thereby. (b) The average period of usefulness of said purposes, within the limitations of the Local Bond Law and taking into consideration the respective amounts of said obligations authorized for the purposes, according to the reasonable life thereof computed from the date of the bonds authorized by -8- this bond ordinance, is 14.00 years. (c) The supplemental debt statement required by the Local Bond Law has been duly made and filed in the office of the Borough Clerk and a complete copy thereof has been electronically filed in the office of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey, and such statement shows that the gross debt of the Borough as defined in the Local Bond Law is increased by the authorization of the bonds and notes provided for in this bond ordinance by $2,910,000, and the said obligations authorized by this bond Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by the Local Bond Law. (d) Amounts not exceeding $400,000 in the aggregate for interest on said obligations, costs of issuing said obligations, engineering costs and other items of expense listed in and permitted under Section 40A:2-20 of the Local Bond Law are included as part of the estimated costs of said improvements or purposes. Section 5. Any funds from time to time received by the Borough as grants in aid of financing the improvements or purposes described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance, including without limitation the Grants, shall be used for financing said improvements or purposes by application thereof either to direct payment of the costs of said improvements or purposes, or to payment or reduction of the authorization of the obligations of the Borough authorized therefor by this bond ordinance. Any such funds so received may, and all such funds so received which are not required for direct payment of the costs of said improvements or purposes shall, be held and applied by the Borough as funds applicable only to the payment of obligations of the Borough authorized by this bond ordinance. Section 6. The full faith and credit of the Borough are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on the obligations authorized by this bond ordinance. Said obligations shall be direct, unlimited obligations of the Borough, and the Borough shall be obligated to levy ad valorem taxes upon all the taxable property within the jurisdiction of the Borough for the payment of said obligations and interest thereon without limitation as to rate or amount. Section 7. The capital budget of the Borough is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this bond ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency herewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing all detail of the amended capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services, are on file with the Borough Clerk and are available for public inspection. Section 8. The Borough intends to issue bonds or notes to finance the cost of the improvements described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance. The Borough expects that the maximum principal amount -9- of bonds or notes that will be issued to finance the cost of the improvements described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance is $2,910,000. If the Borough incurs any such costs prior to the issuance of its bonds or notes, the Borough intends to reimburse itself for such expenditures with the proceeds of such bonds or notes. Section 9. This bond ordinance shall take effect twenty (20) days after the first publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by the Local Bond Law. Ordinance – Introduction Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 Ord. 2025-13 ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 169-3(E) OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN ENTITLED “MEMBERSHIP AND FEES” Council President Delia asked that Ordinance 2025-13 be read by title only. Ms. Zupan read Ordinance 2025-13 by title only. Council President Delia made a motion that Ordinance 2025-13 be passed on first reading, be published according to law, and a public hearing be set down for Monday, June 30, 2025, second by Councilmember Giamboi. Roll Call: Yeas: Branch, Giamboi, Hyman, Jethwani, Delia Nays: None Ordinance 2025-13 was passed on first reading, 5-0 and will be published according to law. Report of the Borough Administrator No report. Reports of Councilmembers Council President Delia reported that the Traffic and Transportation Committee, along with Keep Middlesex Moving, would be at the Farmers Market on June 21 with information about the upcoming Grove Avenue and Hillside Avenue bike land projects. He also provided updates regarding polling location changes. Councilmember Jethwani on upcoming Library programs, including the annual Summer Reading program. Councilmember Hyman reported on behalf of the CARES Committee that National Night Out will take place on August 5, and that Overdose Awareness Night would be August 28. She also noted that Parade Commission and Board of Health meetings were coming up soon. Councilmember Giamboi reported on the Shade Tree Commission’s Tree Time event and noted that the Environmental Commission had been awarded an ANJEC grant (Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions). She also reminded residents to donate to the FPC Food Pantry. Councilmember Branch reported that the Arts Council is looking for volunteers for the Metuchen 125th anniversary photojournalism project. He also congratulated the Human Relations Commission for their hard work to make recent downtown events successful. Report of the Mayor Mayor Busch praised the recent 125th birthday celebration, Juneteenth, and Pride events and thanked the organizations, employees, and volunteers involved in making these events so successful. New Business Consent Agenda – Resolutions 2025-164 to 2025-180 -10 Council President Delia moved to approve New Business Consent Agenda Resolutions 2025-164 to 2025-180, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. RESOLUTION 2025-164 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE RENEWAL OF A PORTION OF THE BOROUGH’S $21,364,000 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES, SERIES 2024A DATED JULY 10, 2024, AND AUTHORIZING BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES IN THE SUM OF $2,910,000 AUTHORIZED BY ONE BOND ORDINANCE HERETOFORE ADOPTED TO FINANCE VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN, BY AND FOR THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN, COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX, NEW JERSEY, AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER DETAILS OF SAID ISSUE Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 WHEREAS, the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, County of Middlesex, New Jersey (the “Borough”) has heretofore adopted bond ordinance numbered 2025-12 authorizing bonds to finance part of the costs of the construction and acquisition of various capital improvements in, by and for the Borough (the “Ordinance”); and WHEREAS, the Borough has not previously funded all of the bonds authorized by the Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the Borough has heretofore issued its Bond Anticipation Notes, Series 2024A dated July 10, 2024 in the aggregate principal amount of $21,364,000 (the “Prior Notes”); and WHEREAS, the Prior Notes mature on July 9, 2025 and it is desirable to renew the portion of the Prior Notes permitted by and pursuant to the Local Bond Law, constituting Chapter 2 of Title 40A of the Revised Statutes of New Jersey (the “Local Bond Law”); and WHEREAS, it is advisable and in the best interests of the Borough, for the purpose of the orderly marketing of said notes and for other financial reasons, to combine the notes authorized under the Ordinance and the Prior Notes to be renewed into one issue in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $24,123,200 (collectively, the “Notes”) pursuant to the Local Bond Law; now, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED by the BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN, in the County of Middlesex, New Jersey as follows: SECTION 1. That the Notes shall be issued as one issue and at such time as shall be determined by the Chief Financial Officer of the Borough (the “Chief Financial Officer”) and shall be in such denomination or denominations, shall bear such number or numbers, such date or dates of issue, redemption and maturity, such redemption price or prices, and such rate or rates of interest, as may be determined in the manner and in accordance with the terms of the Notice of Sale authorized to be published pursuant to Section 3 hereof and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Local Bond Law. The Notes shall be entitled “Bond Anticipation Notes, Series 2025A” or any other designation determined by the Chief Financial Officer. SECTION 2. That all of the Notes shall be signed by the manual or facsimile signatures of the Mayor of the Borough and the Chief Financial Officer and the corporate seal of the Borough shall be affixed thereto, attested by the manual signature of the Clerk of the Borough, and shall be payable, both as to principal and interest, to the purchaser thereof, and shall be in substantially the form as attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof. SECTION 3. That the Chief Financial Officer be and she hereby is authorized and directed to offer the Notes for public sale, to award the Notes and to determine in her discretion the date for receipt for such proposals, all in accordance with the terms set forth in the Notice of Sale (the “Notice of Sale”). The Chief Financial Officer is further hereby authorized and directed to report in writing to the Borough Council at the next meeting succeeding the date when any sale or delivery of the Notes pursuant to this resolution is made, such report to include the principal amount, description, interest rate and maturity of the Notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser. The Notice of Sale shall comply in all respects with the applicable statutes relating thereto and shall be in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, with such additions, modifications or deletions as determined by the Chief Financial Officer. The Notice of Sale or summary thereof, as permitted by applicable law, may be published in The Bond Buyer at least once prior to the date of public sale. The Chief Financial Officer is also hereby -11 authorized and directed to determine all matters in connection with the Notes not determined by this or a subsequent resolution and her signature upon the Notes shall be conclusive as to such determinations. SECTION 4. That the Chief Financial Officer be and she is hereby authorized to distribute a form of “Proposal for Bond Anticipation Notes” (the “Proposal”) in respect of the Notes which Proposal shall be the official form for submission of bids in accordance with the Notice of Sale, except for those Proposals which are submitted electronically pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Notice of Sale. Such Proposal shall be in the form approved by the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer be and she is hereby further authorized at her discretion to accept Proposals and complete the award of the Notes, pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Notice of Sale, by means of electronic media; provided that, with respect to the selection of the particular electronic media and the implementation of the procedures for the exercise thereof, the Chief Financial Officer shall consult with counsel and other applicable professional advisors to the Borough with respect thereto. Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 SECTION 5. That the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to distribute a Preliminary Official Statement which provides certain information in connection with the issuance of the Notes. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby further authorized to disseminate the Preliminary Official Statement via electronic media, in addition to or in lieu of physical, printed media. The Chief Financial Officer shall cause a final Official Statement, with such additions, modifications and deletions to such Preliminary Official Statement as the Chief Financial Officer may approve, to be distributed in accordance with applicable law. SECTION 6. That the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed, as applicable, to approve, “deem final” in accordance with Rule 15c2-12 of the Securities and Exchange Commission and execute the Preliminary Official Statement of the Borough issued in connection with the Notes, the final Official Statement of the Borough issued in connection with the Notes, the Notice of Sale and the Continuing Disclosure Certificate and their use in connection with the sale of the Notes and is further authorized, as is the Clerk of the Borough, to execute all documents, including the Preliminary Official Statement, the final Official Statement and the Continuing Disclosure Certificate, necessary for the sale and delivery of said Notes. SECTION 7. That the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed (a) to cause a copy of the written opinion with respect to the Notes which is to be rendered by the firm of McCarter & English, LLP (complete except for omission of its date) to be printed or referred to on the Notes, and at the time of the original delivery of payment for the Notes and when such written opinion is rendered, to cause the Clerk of the Borough to certify to the truth and correctness of such copy of opinion by executing on each of said Notes, by manual or facsimile signature, a certificate subjoined to each such copy, and to file a signed duplicate of such written opinion in such Clerk’s office and at each place at which the Notes are payable, and (b) to cause the applicable CUSIP number (if any) assigned for each of said Notes by CUSIP Global Services to be printed on each of the Notes. SECTION 8. That the Borough hereby covenants to comply with the provisions of the Code applicable to the Notes and covenants not to take any action or to fail to take any action which would cause the interest on the Notes to lose the exclusion from gross income for federal income tax purposes provided under Section 103 of the Code. Further, the Borough will take all actions within its power that are necessary to assure that interest on the Notes does not lose the exclusion from gross income for federal income tax purposes provided under Section 103 of the Code. SECTION 9. That any instrument issued pursuant to this resolution shall be a general obligation of the Borough, and the Borough’s full faith and credit are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on said obligations and, unless otherwise paid or payment provided for, an amount sufficient for such payment shall be inserted in the budget and a tax sufficient to provide for the payment thereof shall be levied and collected. SECTION 10. That the Mayor of the Borough, the Chief Financial Officer and the Clerk of the Borough are hereby authorized to execute all documents necessary for the sale and delivery of the Notes. SECTION 11. That all actions, if any, taken by the Chief Financial Officer, the financial advisor to the Borough and bond counsel to the Borough prior to the date of adoption of this Resolution in connection with the issuance of the Notes are hereby ratified in all respects. SECTION 12. That this resolution shall take effect immediately. RESOLUTION 2025-165 -12 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ENTRY INTO AND THE EXECUTION OF A SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE BOROUGH OF METUCHEN AND THE TOWNSHIP OF WOODBRIDGE FOR THE PROVISION OF AS NEEDED FOR VARIOUS SERVICES FROM THE WOODBRIDGE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has a need of various services on an as needed basis, including, but not limited to maintenance and services from the Woodbridge Department of Public Works; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act, N.J.S.A. 40A:65-1, et seq. (the “Act”), any local unit may, by the adoption of a resolution of its governing body, enter into an agreement with any other local unit or units to provide or receive any service that Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 each unit participating in the agreement is empowered to provide or receive within its own jurisdiction and that such agreement between the local units for the provision of shared services shall be entered pursuant to the Act; and WHEREAS, the Township of Woodbridge has offered to provide the Borough of Metuchen the various services on an as needed basis, including, but not limited to maintenance and services from the Woodbridge Department of Public Works; and WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has determined that it is in the best interest of the Borough and to obtain various services on an as needed basis, including, but not limited to maintenance and services from the Woodbridge Department of Public Works by way of a shared services agreement from the Township of Woodbridge; and WHEREAS, Metuchen and Woodbridge have negotiated the terms and conditions of a shared services agreement wherein Woodbridge would provide for various services on an as needed basis, including, but not limited to maintenance and services from the Woodbridge Department of Public Works to the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has determined that it is in the best interest of the Borough to obtain various services on an as needed basis, including, but not limited to maintenance and services from the Woodbridge Department of Public Works to the Borough of Metuchen from the Township of Woodbridge, using the cost of equipment based on the latest FEMA schedule of equipment rates, and manpower charged at the hourly rates in effect plus benefits at a total annual cost not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), annually; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer of the Borough of Metuchen has certified that there are sufficient available funds to authorize the within Shared Services Agreement from the 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget from the appropriation line Streets and Roads Vehicle Maintenance 2-01-26-765-025 in the amount of $5,000.00; and WHEREAS, Mayor and Council find that it is in the best interest of the Borough of Metuchen to enter into the Shared Services Agreement with the Township of Woodbridge to memorialize the provision and receipt of shared services between the Parties. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby authorizes the entry into and the execution of a Shared Services Agreement by and between the Borough of Metuchen and the Township of Woodbridge for the provision of certified tax assessor services in general conformity with the terms and conditions set out in the proposed Shared Services Agreement. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby authorizes all Borough officials to take all necessary actions in order to effectuate the within resolution and the Shared Services Agreement, including but not limited to the Mayor and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized to execute a Shared Service Agreement on behalf of the Borough of Metuchen in a final form acceptable to the Mayor and Borough Administrator. RESOLUTION 2025-166 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARD AND EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR ADVOCACY AND FEDERAL GRANT WRITING SERVICES -13 TO CAPITALEDGE STRATEGIES LLC WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has determined that it is necessary to retain the services for Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing for the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1 et seq., provides for the utilization of a process called competitive contracting in lieu of public bidding for procurement of specific goods and or services, such as janitorial services; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A.11-4-3(a), by way of Resolution No. 2025-89, the Borough Council authorized the use of competitive contracting for the procurement of Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services for the Borough of Metuchen; and Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen prepared, issued, and publicly advertised a Notice of a Request for Proposals for the provision of Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Service for the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Borough received three (3) proposals to provide Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services to Metuchen; and WHEREAS, Metuchen through a Committee comprised of the Borough Administrator, the Director of Economic Development and the QPA evaluated the proposals submitted based upon the criteria set forth in the RFP and have determined and recommended the award of contract to CapitalEdge Strategies LLC for the provision of Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services in the total amount not to exceed thirty six thousand dollars and no cents ($36,000.00) for Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services for a contract term of one year to be effective upon passage of this resolution of contract award, with the option to renew the agreement for up to four (4) additional renewal terms of one (1) year each, and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen have determined that it to be in the best interest of Metuchen to authorize the award of contract for Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services to CapitalEdge Strategies LLC; and WHEREAS, the maximum amount for Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services for the Borough of Metuchen for the 2025 portion of this contract award is $ 21,000.00 and that the Chief Financial Officer certifies that there are sufficient funds for such award and is available and is designated from 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget Current Fund appropriation Administrative & Executive-Contractual Services 5-01-20-701-028 in the amount of $21,000.00. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby authorizes the award of contract for Advocacy and Federal Grant Writing Services to CapitalEdge Strategies LLC for a total amount not to exceed twenty one thousand dollars and no cents ($21,000.00). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that the Borough Administrator and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute an agreement, with CapitalEdge Strategies LLC, 1212 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005 with the terms of the within Resolution, the RFP and the proposal submitted to the Borough; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Administrator, and other officials and employees are hereby authorized to take all necessary actions in order to effectuate the terms and provisions of this Resolution and the award and implementation of the contract awarded herein; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the within contract was awarded pursuant to a “Fair and Open Process” pursuant to New Jersey Local Unit Pay-To-Play Law (N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4, et. seq.). RESOLUTION 2025-167 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARD AND EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR GRANT WRITING SERVICES TO MILLENIUM STRATEGIES LLC -14 WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has determined that it is necessary to retain the services for Grant Writing for the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1 et seq., provides for the utilization of a process called competitive contracting in lieu of public bidding for procurement of specific goods and or services, such as janitorial services; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A.11-4-3(a), by way of Resolution No. 2021-47, the Borough Council authorized the use of competitive contracting for the procurement of Grant Writing Services for the Borough of Metuchen; and Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen prepared, issued, and publicly advertised a Notice of a Request for Proposals for the provision of Grant Writing Service for the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Borough received two (2) proposals to provide Grant Writing Services to Metuchen; and WHEREAS, Metuchen through a Committee comprised of the Borough Administrator, the Director of Economic Development and the QPA evaluated the proposals submitted based upon the criteria set forth in the RFP and have determined and recommended the award of contract to Millenium Strategies LLC for the provision of Grant Writing Services in the total amount not to exceed thirty seven thousand two hundred dollars and no cents ($37,200.00) for Grant Writing Services for a contract term of one year to be effective upon passage of this resolution of contract award, with the option to renew the agreement for up to four (4) additional renewal terms of one (1) year each, and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen have determined that it to be in the best interest of Metuchen to authorize the award of contract for Grant Writing Services to Millenium Strategies LLC; and WHEREAS, the maximum amount for Grant Writing Services for the Borough of Metuchen for the 2025 portion of this contract award is $24,800.00 and that the Chief Financial Officer certifies that there are sufficient funds for such award and is available and is designated from 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget Current Fund appropriation Administrative & Executive-Contractual Services 5-01-20-701-028 in the amount of $24,800.00. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby authorizes the award of contract for Grant Writing Services to Millenium Strategies LLC for a total amount not to exceed twenty four thousand eight hundred dollars and no cents ($24,800.00). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that the Borough Administrator and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute an agreement, with Millenium Strategies LLC, 60 Columbia Road, Morristown, NJ 07409 consistent with the terms of the within Resolution, the RFP and the proposal submitted to the Borough; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Administrator, and other officials and employees are hereby authorized to take all necessary actions in order to effectuate the terms and provisions of this Resolution and the award and implementation of the contract awarded herein; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the within contract was awarded pursuant to a “Fair and Open Process” pursuant to New Jersey Local Unit Pay-To-Play Law (N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4, et. seq.). RESOLUTION 2025-168 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARD AND EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT AND CONSULTING SERVICES TO TK1 SOLUTIONS LLC -15 WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has determined that it is necessary to retain the services for Information Technology Support and Consultant Services for the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1 et seq., provides for the utilization of a process called competitive contracting in lieu of public bidding for procurement of specific goods and or services, such as janitorial services; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A.11-4-3(a), by way of Resolution No. 2020-39, the Borough Council authorized the use of competitive contracting for the procurement of Information Technology Support and Consultant Services for the Borough of Metuchen; and Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen prepared, issued, and publicly advertised a Notice of a Request for Proposals for the provision of Information Technology Support and Consultant Services for the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, the Borough received eight (8) proposals to provide Information Technology Support and Consultant Services to Metuchen; and WHEREAS, Metuchen through a Committee comprised of the Borough Administrator, the Director of Economic Development and the QPA evaluated the proposals submitted based upon the criteria set forth in the RFP and have determined and recommended the award of contract to TK1 Solutions LLC for the provision of Information Technology Support and Consultant Services in the total amount not to exceed one hundred two thousand four hundred sixty five dollars and no cents ($102,465.00) for Information Technology Support and Consultant Services for a contract term of one year to be effective upon passage of this resolution of contract award, with the option to renew the agreement for up to four (4) additional renewal terms of one (1) year each, and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen have determined that it to be in the best interest of Metuchen to authorize the award of contract for Information Technology Support and Consultant Services to TK1 Solutions LLC; and WHEREAS, the maximum amount for Information Technology Support and Consultant Services for the Borough of Metuchen for the 2025 portion of this contract award is $59,771.25 and that the Chief Financial Officer certifies that there are sufficient funds for such award and is available and is designated from 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget Current Fund appropriation Administrative & Executive-Professional Services 5-01-20-701-028, Police- Professional Services 5-01-45-745-028 and METV IT/Technology Support 5-01-20-716-103 totaling $59,771.25. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby authorizes the award of contract for Information Technology Support and Consultant Services to TK1 Solutions LLC for a total amount not to exceed fifty nine thousand seven hundred seventy one dollars and twenty five cents ($59,771.25). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Council of the Borough of Metuchen that the Borough Administrator and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute an agreement, with TK1 Solutions LLC, 83 Cornwall Drive, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 with the terms of the within Resolution, the RFP and the proposal submitted to the Borough; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Administrator, and other officials and employees are hereby authorized to take all necessary actions in order to effectuate the terms and provisions of this Resolution and the award and implementation of the contract awarded herein; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the within contract was awarded pursuant to a “Fair and Open Process” pursuant to New Jersey Local Unit Pay-To-Play Law (N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4, et. seq.). RESOLUTION 2025-169 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARD OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT TO COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN, TO -16 PERFORM ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR 2026 NJ DOT STATE AID APPLICATION WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has a need to acquire the services of a Borough Engineer as a fair and open contract pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4; and WHEREAS, Requests for Qualifications for Professional Engineering services for the Borough of Metuchen were received by the Borough on December 17, 2024; and WHEREAS, by way of Resolution No. 2025-28, the Borough of Metuchen awarded a contract for Borough Engineer and professional engineering services to Colliers Engineering & Design for the calendar year 2025 at a cost not to exceed thirty-five thousand dollars ($35,000.00); and Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen is in need of professional engineering services for writing and submitting a 2026 NJ DOT State Aid Application on behalf of the Borough of Metuchen; and WHEREAS, Colliers Engineering & Design, submitted a proposal dated May 27, 2025, to the Borough to render engineering services for the preparation and submittal of a 2026 NJDOT State Aid Application for a cost not to exceed five thousand five hundred dollars and no cents ($5,500.00); and WHEREAS, the proposal was reviewed and evaluated, and it is the recommendation of the Borough Administrator that a contract for engineering services for the preparation and submittal of a 2026 NJDOT State Aid Application be awarded to Colliers Engineering & Design of Red Bank, New Jersey consistent with the proposal submitted; and WHEREAS, the Council of the Borough of Metuchen have reviewed the proposal and have determined it is in the best interest of Metuchen to award a contract to Colliers Engineering & Design, of Red Bank, New Jersey to render engineering services for the preparation and submittal of a 2026 NJDOT State Aid Application; and WHEREAS, the cost for the proposed services shall not exceed five thousand five hundred dollars and no cents ($5,500.00) without further approval by the Mayor and Borough Council; and WHEREAS, this contract is awarded as a “fair and open contract” pursuant to and in accordance with the Local Unit Pay-to-Play Law; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer's Certification of Funds has certified that there are sufficient funds for such contract and is available and is designated from the 2025 Temporary Budget and the 2025 Adopted Budget appropriation line Administrative and Executive Professional Services 5-01-20-701-028 for these services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen that it hereby awards a contract to Colliers Engineering & Design, 331 Newman Springs Road, Suite 203, Red Bank, NJ 07701 on the basis of the proposal dated May 27, 2025 to provide professional engineering services to the Borough of Metuchen for the preparation and submittal of a 2026 NJDOT State Aid Application funded in an amount not to exceed five thousand five hundred dollars and no cents ($5,500.00). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Borough officials and employees are hereby authorized to take all necessary actions in order to effectuate the terms and provisions of this Resolution, including but not limited to the execution of an Agreement in the form acceptable in contents by the Mayor and Council President. RESOLUTION 2025-170 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OFFICE SUPPLIES AND RELATED PRODUCTS THROUGH STATE CONTRACT WHEREAS, there exists a need to purchase Office Supplies and Other Related Products for the Borough of Metuchen, in the County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey; and -17 WHEREAS, the award authorized these purchases through State Contract # 24-COMG-78752, M0052– Office Supplies and Related Products; and WHEREAS, state contract M0052, Punchout Contract 24-COMG-78752 is in effect from June 16, 2024, through February 28, 2027; and WHEREAS, the authorization to purchase under this award expires on December 31, 2025; and WHEREAS, the maximum amount of the purchase of Office Supplies and Other Related Products for the Borough of Metuchen is awarded in an amount not to exceed $32,700.00 and that there are sufficient funds for such award as certified from the 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget Account numbers 5-01-20-701-036, 5-01-20-704-280, 5-01-20-708-036, 5-01-20-710-036, 5- 01-21-721-283, 5-01-22-725-036, 5-01-25-745-036, 5-01-25-747-284, 5-01-26-764-036, 5-01-26- Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 772-035, 5-01-27-785-036, 5-01-27-791-036, 5-01-28-795-168, 5-01-43-490-036, 5-09-55-501-505, Trust Account Line Senior Center Trust T-16-56-861-861, Trust Account Line Fire Inspections T-16- 56-870-870, Equitable Sharing Federal Forfeited Funds T-15-56-858-859 and Recreation Trust T-22- 56-859-859 for these services of which $22,200.00 is certified from the 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget and $10,500.00 from the designated Trust Funds; and WHEREAS, this authorization is contingent upon the cancellation of the existing purchase order previously authorized by Resolution 2025-128 which expired on May 27, 2025, and; WHEREAS, public bids are not required when the purchase is under a state contract in accordance with 40A:11-12 of the Local Public Contracts Law. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, in the County of Middlesex as follows: The Chief Financial Officer and Borough Administrator are hereby authorized and directed to approve and forward a Purchase Order to W.B. Mason Co., Inc., 59 Centre Street, Brockton, MA, in an amount not to exceed $32,700.00. RESOLUTION 2025-171 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING HCESC WINDOW CONTRACT FOR HVAC COMPRESSORS WHEREAS, there exists a need to purchase new air conditioner compressors of the Metuchen Public Library for the Borough of Metuchen, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey; and WHEREAS, air conditioner compressors can be purchased through Hunterdon County Educational Services Commission Cooperative Purchasing Program #34 HUNCCP, HCESC Contract No. SER-24-16 HVAC Services; and WHEREAS, the term of the contract is from November 3, 2024 through November 3, 2026; and WHEREAS, the amount for the compressors is under the bid threshold as set by New Jersey Local Public Contracts Law N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq, but above $17,500.00; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer’s certification of funds is made authorizing the award to purchase two compressors in an amount not to exceed $22,758.50 from the 2023 Capital Bond Ordinance line item C-04-55-939-008; and WHEREAS, purchase of goods and services is permitted through cooperative purchasing in accordance with 40A:11-11 of the Local Public Contracts Law and N.J.A.C 5:34-1 et seq; and, WHEREAS, NJWCPS shall be responsible for complying with the provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law (N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq.) and all other provisions of the revised statutes; and. WHEREAS, this procurement is awarded under N.J.S.A. 19:44A20.4 et seq. using a fair and open process to McCloskey Mechanical Contractor for two compressors for the Borough of Metuchen. -18 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, in the County of Middlesex as follows: The Chief Financial Officer and Borough Administrator are hereby authorized and directed to approve and forward a purchase order in an amount not to exceed twenty two thousand seven hundred fifty eight dollars and fifty cents ($22,758.50) McCloskey Mechanical Contractor, 445 Lower Landing Road, Blackwood, New Jersey, 08012. Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 RESOLUTION 2025-172 RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION 2025-33 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR BOROUGH AFFORDABLE HOUSING/COAH PLANNER/CONSULTANT WHEREAS, the Borough of Metuchen has a need to amend Resolution 2025-33 previously awarded for Borough Affordable Housing/COAH Planner/Consultant as an amendment to a contract previously awarded, fair and open process pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4; and WHEREAS, Requests for Qualifications were received on December 17, 2024 and reviewed by the Borough Administrator, Chief Financial Officer/QPA, and Borough Clerk; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has determined and certified in writing that the value of the services will exceed $5,000.00; and WHEREAS, the anticipated term of this contract is the calendar year 2025; and WHEREAS, the original agreement stipulated that the maximum amount of the contract shall not exceed $ 20,000.00; and WHEREAS, the Borough deemed it necessary to dedicate an additional $6,000.00 for continued services; and WHEREAS, the maximum amount of the contract is amended and shall not exceed twenty six thousand dollars and no cents $ 26,000.00 and the Chief Financial Officer has certified that there are sufficient funds for such contract and are available and is designated from the 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget Account Administrative & Executive Professional Services 5- 0120-701-028 for the initial $20,000.00 award and that there are sufficient funds for the $6,000.00 amendment from the Affordable Housing/COAH Trust fund E-14-56-857-857 for these additional services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen, in the County of Middlesex, as follows: The Mayor and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to increase the available funds for Affordable Housing/COAH Planner/Consultant services from the firm Sarmad Planning Group, 26 King George Road, Warren, NJ 07059. RESOLUTION 2025-173 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER #1 AND FINAL CONTRACT DECREASE FOR TOP LINE CONSTRUCTION CORP – 2023 ROAD PROGRAM WHEREAS, by way of Resolution 2024-63, a contract was approved for 2023 Road Program by the Mayor and Council and Top Line Construction Corp.; and WHEREAS, on May 20, 2025, Top Line Construction Corp. submitted a memo to the Borough for a Change Order decrease to the Borough in the amount of $176,865.94 which was reviewed and approved by the Borough Administrator and Qualified Purchasing Agent; and -19 WHEREAS, the decrease to the Borough for the Change Order #1 and Final is $176,865.94. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen that the proper officials are hereby authorized to execute the said attached Change Order #1 and Final. Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 RESOLUTION 2025-174 RESOLUTION APPROVING SUBMISSION OF A GRANT APPLICATION AND EXECUTION A GRANT CONTRACT WITH THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE HILLSIDE AVE, HIGHLAND AVE, AND RECTOR ST IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT WHEREAS, that the Council of the Borough of Metuchen formally approves the grant application for the above stated project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to submit an electronic grant application identified as MA-2026-Hillside Ave, Highland Ave and Recto-00154 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation on behalf of the Borough of Metuchen. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the grant agreement on behalf of the Borough of Metuchen and that their signature constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of the grant agreement and approval to execute the grant agreement. RESOLUTION 2025-175 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PURCHASE FROM SOMERSET COUNTY COOPERATIVE PRICING UNLEADED GASOLINE, 87 OCTANE WHEREAS, there exists a need to purchase unleaded gasoline for the Borough of Metuchen, in the County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey; and WHEREAS, this can be purchased through the Somerset County Cooperative Pricing System #2-SOCCP, Contract #CC-0045-24 Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane, Open End Contract Second Year of a Two Year Contract pursuant to the provisions of NJ.S.A. 40A:11-11 (5); and WHEREAS, Somerset County Cooperative awarded the second year of a two-year contract #CC-0045-24 awarded on May 13, 2025 to May 14, 2026; and WHEREAS, this authorization of award ends on December 31, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the maximum amount of the purchase of Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane fuel for the Borough of Metuchen under this contract is awarded in an amount not to exceed $60,000.00 and is certified from the 2025 Temporary Budget and 2025 Adopted Budget, designated from Diesel and Gasoline Fuel Account Number 5-01-31-821-074; and WHEREAS, this authorization is contingent upon the cancellation of the existing purchase order previously authorized by Resolution 2025-57 which expired on May 13, 2025, and; WHEREAS, the County of Somerset, New Jersey shall be responsible for complying with the provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law (NJ.S.A. 40A:l 1-1 et seq.) and all other provisions of the revised statutes. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, in the County of Middlesex as follows: The Chief Financial Officer and Borough Administrator are hereby authorized and directed to approve and forward a Purchase Order to National Fuel Oil Inc., 175 Orange -20exceed sixty thousand dollars and no Street, Newark, NJ 07103, in an amount not to cents ($60,000.00). RESOLUTION 2025-176 RESOLUTION TO REDUCE 2023 AND 2024 TAXES, AND APPLY TO CURRENT AND FUTURE TAXES WHEREAS, a successful State Tax Court Appeal judgment was awarded to Block 91, Lot 11, 544-550 Middlesex Avenue for 2023 and 2024; and WHEREAS, the assessed value for this parcel changed for 2023 and 2024 by a reduction in the assessed value of $125,000.00; and Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 WHEREAS, the reduction in taxes for the above referenced Block and Lot for 2023 is $8,705.00, and $9,053.75 for 2024; and WHEREAS, the stipulation of settlement directs that the resulting refund be taken as a credit and applied against quarterly real estate taxes beginning with the first quarterly taxes due after issuance if Judgment and continuing each quarter thereafter until the entire credit is used. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, that the Tax Collector be and is hereby authorized to reduce the 2023 and 2024 taxes on Block 91, Lot 11 in the total amount of $17,758.75 due to the successful State Tax Court Appeal for the year 2023 and 2024, including amendments, and apply the resulting tax overpayment in the amount of $17,758.75 to open 2025 property taxes. RESOLUTION 2025-177 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RELEASE OF STREET OPENING BONDS WHEREAS, in accordance with the Borough of Metuchen Ordinance, $500.00 was posted as the required Performance Guarantee by the contractor named below, for work done at the addresses named below; and WHEREAS, the Superintendent of Public Works advises that said work has been completed in a manner satisfactory to his department; and WHEREAS, the Superintendent of Public Works advises the release of the monies previously deposited. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by The Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen that the Chief Financial Officer be and is hereby authorized to release said funds to the contractor listed below: Contractor: Mattco Plumbing and Heating, LLC, 160 Liberty Street, Metuchen, NJ 08840 Permit Number: Address: 2021-34/PG 21-034 52 East Walnut Street 2021-35/PG 21-035 25 Buchanon Road 2021-37/PG 21-037 23 Elm Avenue 2021-43/PG 21-043 75 New York Avenue 2021-59/PG 21-059 12 Applewood Court 2022-02/PG 22-002 305 West Chestnut Avenue 2022-09/PG 22-009 55 Elm Avenue 2022-15/PG 22-015 28 Beacon Hill Drive 2022-25/PG 22-025 108 Clarendon Court 2022-31/PG 22-031 64 High Street 2022-35/PG 22-035 112 Clarendon Court 2022-47/PG 22-047 84 Durham Avenue 2022-77/PG 22-077 91 Maple Avenue 2023-15/PG 23-015 6 Lynn Circle 2023-42/PG 23-042 14 Juniper Street 2023-80/PG 23-080 40 Myrtle Avenue -21 2023-88/PG 23-088 54 Wistar Avenue RESOLUTION 2025-178 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF LIQUOR LICENSES WHEREAS, the following applicants for Plenary Retail Consumption, Plenary Retail Distribution, and Club Licenses have complied with the provisions of R.S. Title 33, Intoxicating Liquors, C.L., Alcoholic Beverage Law; and WHEREAS, these applicants have been investigated by the Chief of Police and Fire Inspector prior to the June 9, 2025; and WHEREAS, the proper application has been filed with New Jersey State Alcoholic Beverage Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 Control, Tax Clearance Certificate issued, and municipal fees have been received; and WHEREAS, no legally valid objections have been made as to why these applications should not be approved. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, that pursuant to the statute in such case made and provided that the following Plenary Retail Consumption, Plenary Retail Distribution and Club Licenses for the period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, be and the same are hereby granted to said applicants. State License No. Licensee & Licensed Premises Municipal Fee Paid CLUBS 1210-31-014-002 American Legion Fugle Hummer Post 65 $ 150 17 Calvin Place Metuchen, NJ 08840 1210-31-017-002 Metuchen Elks Lodge 1914 $ 150 87 Middlesex Avenue Metuchen, NJ 08840 PLENARY RETAIL CONSUMPTION 1210-32-002-003 Metuchen Inn A Corp $2,200 t/a Metuchen Inn 424 Middlesex Avenue Metuchen, NJ 08840 1210-33-006-009 AJ Liquors LLC $2,200 Pocket License 228A Pierson Avenue Edison, New Jersey 08837 1210-33-008-011 HHP Enterprises LLC $2,200 t/a Hailey’s 400 Main Street Metuchen, NJ 08840 1210-33-009-010 Satya Beverages LLC $2200 t/a Meximodo, 99 New Street Metuchen, NJ 08840 1210-33-010-007 Brownstone Group Inc. $2,200 t/a Brownstone Bar and Grill 932 Middlesex Avenue 1210-33-012-011 CGC Café t/a Wood Stack Pizza & Kitchen $2,200 -22 259 Lake Avenue PLENARY RETAIL DISTRIBUTION 1210-44-003-005 Chase Spirit Metuchen LLC $1,550 t/a Metuchen Buy Rite 283 Central Avenue Metuchen, NJ 08840 1210-44-007-007 Sunny and Shivani Corp $1,550 t/a Metuchen Liquor and Wine 431 Main Street Metuchen, NJ 08840 Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 1210-44-011-009 Abrol $1,550 t/a Wine Chateau 85 Central Avenue Metuchen, NJ 08840 RESOLUTION 2025-179 RESOLUTION CERTIFYING THE 2025-26 BOARD OF EDUCATION BUDGET WHEREAS, the 2025-2026 school budget for the school district Borough of Metuchen was approved as follows: General Fund $45,573,917.00 Debt Service $ 4,173,380.00 Total Approved $49,747,297.00 WHEREAS, the balance to be raised for the school district taxes on account of the 2024-2025 school tax levy is $24,180,411.00. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen, County of Middlesex, that the school district tax levy for the calendar year 2025 be established as follows: January 1, 2025 to June 30, 2025 (balance of 2024-2025 levy) $24,180,411.00 July 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 (one-half of 2025-2026 levy) $24,873,649.00 Amount to be raised for school district taxes in 2025 $49,054,060.00 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the Middlesex County Board of Taxation. RESOLUTION 2025-180 RESOLUTION ENDORSING THE 2025 HOUSING ELEMENT AND FAIR SHARE PLAN WHEREAS, on March 20, 2024, the Governor approved L. 2024, c. 2, which amended the Fair Housing Act, N.J.S.A. 52:27D-301, et seq., with respect to municipalities’ affordable housing obligations and including the fourth round affordable housing obligations covering the period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2035, and provided that, pursuant to the formulas and process established pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:27D-304.2 and 52:27D-304.3, as amended, a municipality is authorized to seek approval of its fair share affordable housing obligation, adopted pursuant to binding resolution and then filed with the Court, with -23 the guidance of calculations published by the Department of Community Affairs; and WHEREAS, the process so established is being implemented, in accordance with Administrative Directive #14-24 of the Administrative Director of the Courts, through the filing of an action in the form of a Declaratory Judgment Complaint and Civil Case Information Statement in the county in which the municipality is located; and WHEREAS, on January 27, 2025, the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen adopted Resolution Number 2025-69, which determined Metuchen’s fourth round present need Borough Council Meeting June 9, 2025 and prospective need fair share affordable housing obligations as five units and one hundred twenty units, respectively, and directed the filing of a declaratory judgment action; and WHEREAS, on January 28, 2025, the Borough of Metuchen (“Borough”) filed a declaratory judgment action under Docket No. MID-L-000565-25 with the Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex County (“the DJ action”) seeking to declare its Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (HEFSP) as being constitutionally compliant, and seeking protection and repose against exclusionary zoning litigation for a ten (10) year period; and WHEREAS, the Superior Court of New Jersey has ordered that municipalities that have filed declaratory judgment actions must file updated HEFSPs that address their affordable housing obligations as calculated by their respective municipal experts by June 30, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Borough’s affordable housing consultant, Katherine Sarmad, PP, AICP has prepared an HEFSP that addresses the Borough’s affordable housing obligation (the “2025 HEFSP”); and WHEREAS, after conducting a public hearing on June 5, 2025, after giving public notice pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-13 on the proposed amendment of the Master Plan of the Borough of Metuchen to include the proposed 2025 HEFSP, the Planning Board determined to adopt said 2025 HEFSP and to recommend that the Governing Body of the Borough of Metuchen endorse the 2025 HEFSP; and WHEREAS, where all ordinances implementing the HEFSP have not been adopted prior to seeking judicial approval of the HEFSP, the aforementioned Directive #14-24 requires that a resolution of the Governing Body endorsing the HEFSP be adopted; and WHEREAS, a true copy of the Resolution of the Planning Board adopting the 2025 HEFSP is attached hereto; and WHEREAS, the Governing Body desires to endorse the 2025 HEFSP adopted by the Planning Board as an amendment to the Master Plan of the Borough of Metuchen; and -24 WHEREAS, the Governing Body reserves the right to amend the 2025 HEFSP, if necessary, in accordance with the procedures established in Administrative Directive #14-24; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Metuchen, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey, that the Borough Council hereby endorses  the 2025 HEFSP that has been adopted by the Planning Board of the Borough of Metuchen; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Council agrees to implement the 2025 HEFSP by adopting the necessary ordinances and resolutions; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor, Borough Administrator, and Borough Clerk, together with all other officers, professionals and employees of the Borough are hereby authorized and directed to take any and all steps necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect immediately. Other New Business Council President Delia made a motion to approve Resolution 2025-181, authorizing payment of the bill list in the amount of $3,465,255.54, second by Councilmember Giamboi with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. RESOLUTION 2025-181 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PAYMENT OF THE BILL LIST BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Metuchen that the proper warrants be drawn, and all bills be paid totaling $3,465,255.54. At 8:00 p.m. Mayor Busch asked for a temporary recess until the Police were ready for the swearing in of officers. Council President Delia made a motion to go into recess, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. At 8:10 p.m. Council President Delia made a motion to return to the meeting, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, motion carried, 5-0. Swearing-In of Police Officers Mayor Busch administered the Oath of Office to Officer Sean Brody and to Sergeant Emeka Chijioke. Adjournment Council President Delia made a motion to adjourn the meeting, second by Councilmember Giamboi, with all in favor, 5-0, the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Deborah Zupan, RMC, Borough Clerk