Muyni
← Back to Milltown

Borough Council

Regular Meeting

Milltown, NJ · November 10, 2025

PacketMinutes

Minutes

BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm The Borough Council Meeting of the Milltown Borough Council was held on November 10, 2025, at Milltown Borough Hall, 39 Washington Avenue, Milltown, New Jersey. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Murray at 7:00 pm. The Borough Clerk read the following statement: Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided as required under Chapter 231, P.L. 1975, specifying the time, date, and location of this meeting by posting a copy of the notice in the Municipal Building, on the Municipal Website, and providing a copy of the Annual Notice Schedule to the official newspapers of the Borough. Notice is also on file in the Office of the Municipal Clerk. Roll Call was taken by the Borough Clerk ROLL CALL Present Absent Council President Zambrana X Councilman John Collins X Councilman Frank Manco X Councilwoman Patricia Payne X Councilman Gary Posnansky X Councilman David Potter X Mayor George Murray X Borough Attorney Peter Vignuolo X Borough Engineer Mike McClelland X Borough Engineer Lou Ploskonka X Borough Administrator Fred Carr X Borough Clerk Gretchen McCarthy X Mayor Murray held a moment of silence followed by a salute to the flag. Public Comment: Mayor Murray opened the floor for public comment on resolutions listed on the agenda. Seeing no members of the public wishing to speak, the mayor closed the audience comments portion. Page | 1 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm Ordinances First Reading Ordinance 25-1576 An Ordinance to Amend Chapter XXV, Water, Section 25-7.23, Replacement of Water Meters of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough of Milltown of the County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey that the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown be amended as follows: Section 1. Chapter 25, “Water,” Section 25-7.23 “Replacement of Water Meters,” of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown is hereby added as follows: Section 25-7.23 Replacement of Water Meters. It shall be the obligation of the owner to schedule an inspection, repair and/or replacement of a meter within ten (10) days of receipt of written notice from the Borough requesting same. Such notice shall be delivered to the owner by certified mail, return receipt requested. In the event that the owner fails to schedule such work or admit the Borough representative access for such work, the owner shall be liable for a surcharge in the amount of $250.00 per month to be added to the quarterly bill until such time that the Borough representative has been provided access for such inspection, repair and/or replacement of the water meter. Section 2. Each clause, section or subsection of this Ordinance shall be deemed a separate provision to the intent that if any such clause, section or subsection should be declared invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance shall not be affected. Section 3. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed as to the extent of such inconsistency. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication according to law. A substantial discussion ensued regarding the ordinance, which would impose a $250 monthly surcharge on residents who fail to schedule the replacement of their water meters. Councilman Collins expressed concern that $250 per month was too high and would place a burden on residents, especially seniors on fixed incomes. Councilman Posnansky agreed, suggesting that a $50 service charge would be more appropriate. Councilman Manco strongly defended the surcharge, emphasizing that residents had been given multiple opportunities over more than a year to schedule free water meter replacements. He argued Page | 2 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm that the surcharge was necessary to incentivize compliance so the borough could move forward with its lead line replacement program. Borough Administrator Carr explained that despite multiple attempts over four months, approximately 195 residents had still not scheduled appointments, including 173 residential properties. He noted that the contractor, Vepo, might soon withdraw from the project due to the slow response rate, which would force borough staff to complete the remaining installations, potentially taking years. Councilwoman Payne clarified that the ordinance served two purposes: replacing water meters and checking for lead service lines. She emphasized that residents would have plenty of time to schedule appointments before any surcharge would be applied, as it would require proper notification and wouldn't take effect until well after January. After discussion, Mayor Murray expressed concern that some residents had legitimate scheduling challenges, as some could only be available on weekends. ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X The Public Hearing on Ordinance 25-1576 is to take place on November 24, 2025, at 7pm in Council Chambers. Ordinance 25-1577 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER XXV, WATER, SECTION 25-4.1, WATER RATES OF THE REVISED GENERAL ORDINANCES OF THE BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN. BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough of Milltown of the County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey that the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown be amended as follows: Section 1. Chapter 25, “Water,” Section 4.1, “Water Rates,” of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown is hereby amended as follows: Section 25-4.1. Water Rates Page | 3 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm a. The rates for water sold to users in the Borough of Milltown shall, for users of such water, be as follows: Consumption Charges Quarterly Minimum Quarterly Amount $67.02 (0-5,400 Gallons) Gallons Used in Quarter Rate per 1,000 Gallons Amount of Gallons Used All Gallonage $5.95 per 1,000 Gallons 5,401-21,600 Gallons (If consumption exceeds 5,400 gallons) $14.75 per 1,000 Gallons Over 21,600 Gallons b. The rates shall take effect December 31, 2025. **** Section 2. Each clause, section or subsection of this Ordinance shall be deemed a separate provision to the intent that if any such clause, section or subsection should be declared invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance shall not be affected. Section 3. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed as to the extent of such inconsistency. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication according to law. Councilman Collins asked if sewer rates would also increase. Borough Administrator Carr confirmed that water rates would increase by 3.5% in January, and since sewer rates are tied to water usage, they would effectively increase as well. Page | 4 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X The Public Hearing on Ordinance 25-1577 is to take place on November 24, 2025, at 7pm in Council Chambers. Ordinance 25-1578 An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 22, Electrical Service, Section 22-38, General Service, of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown, Subsection 22-38.3, Service Rates. BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough of Milltown of the County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey that the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown be amended as follows: Section 1. Chapter 22, “Electrical Service,” Section 22-38, “General Service,” Subsection 22- 38.3, “Service Rates,” of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown is hereby amended as follows: Section 22-38.3. Service Rates a. Monthly charges shall be as follows: Residential Rates Number of KWH $13.71 First 20 kwh or less $0.2508 In excess of 20 kwh b. Monthly Minimum Charge. The minimum monthly charge under the above rate will be the first 20 kilowatt hours usage or $13.71. Excess of 300 kilowatt hours of $0.198 per kilowatt-hour, for heat pump service. c. General Service. Monthly charges shall be as follows: 1. Customers that have a twelve-month average demand reading, based on the previous calendar year of 20 kW to 99.99 kW: Page | 5 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm (a) Kilowatt Charge. First kilowatt of monthly maximum demand is included in the kilowatt hour charge; $30.16 per kilowatt for the next four kilowatts; $29.11 per kilowatt for each additional kilowatt of monthly maximum demand. Notwithstanding the kilowatt charge paragraph above, the Governing Body is authorized to provide demand charge relief for certain not-for-profit organizations residing within the Borough of Milltown. The Governing Body shall provide said demand charge relief through the adoption of a resolution on an annual basis. (b) Kilowatt Hour Charge. $38.86 For the first 100 kwh or less used in each month $0.2319 Per kwh for the next 400 kwh used in each month $0.1989 Per kwh in excess of 500 kwh used in each month 2. Customers that have a twelve-month average demand reading, based on the previous calendar year, or less than 20 kW: (a) Kilowatt Charge. First kilowatt of monthly maximum demand is included in the kilowatt hour charge; $21.11 per kilowatt for the next four kilowatts; $20.37 per kilowatt for each additional kilowatt of monthly maximum demand. Notwithstanding the kilowatt charge paragraph above, the Governing Body is authorized to provide demand charge relief for certain not-for-profit organizations residing within the Borough of Milltown. The Governing Body shall provide said demand charge relief through the adoption of a resolution on an annual basis. (b) Kilowatt Hour Charge. $38.86 For the first 100 kwh or less used in each month $0.2319 Per kwh for the next 400 kwh used in each month $0.1989 Per kwh in excess of 500 kwh used in each month d. Large Power and Lighting Service. Monthly charges shall be as follows: 1. Monthly Demand Charge. $1,569.48 First 50 kW or less $28.33 All in excess of 50 kW, per kW 2. Plus Monthly Energy Charge. Page | 6 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm (a) From October 1 through May 31. $1,437.73 First 5,000 kwh, or less $0.2849 Per kwh in excess of 5,000 kwh (b) From June 1 through September 30. $1,437.73 First 5,000 kwh, or less $0.3134 Per kwh in excess of 5,000 kwh (c) Monthly Minimum Demand Charge. The minimum monthly charge under this schedule shall be one of the following, whichever shall be the highest amount: (1) $1,696.33 (2) The demand charge calculated by use of a kilowatt value equal to 85% of the customer's highest demand measured in any of the previous 11 months. e. Meter Pans and Hardware. The distributor shall no longer supply meter pans and hardware for purchase by customers. All customers shall, at their own cost and expense, provide all necessary meter pans and hardware, which shall meet standards and specifications of the distributor. f. The foregoing rates shall take effect December 31, 2025. . Section 2. Each clause, section or subsection of this Ordinance shall be deemed a separate provision to the intent that if any such clause, section or subsection should be declared invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance shall not be affected. Section 3. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed as to the extent of such inconsistency. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication according to law. Page | 7 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X The Public Hearing on Ordinance 25-1578 is to take place on September 29, 2025, at 7pm in Council Chambers. Ordinance 25-1579 An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 2, Administration, Section 2-7, Business Administrator, Subsection 2-7.5, Qualifications of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown. BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough of Milltown of the County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey that the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown be amended as follows: Section 1. Chapter 2, Administration, Section 2-7, Business Administrator, Subsection 2-7.5, Qualifications, of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Milltown, is hereby amended to read as follows: §2-7. BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR. *** §2-7.5. Qualifications. The Business Administrator shall be chosen by the Mayor and Borough Council solely on the basis of executive and administrative qualifications, with reference to actual training in governmental affairs, education, experience and training as evidenced by: (a) a degree from a recognized four year college in Public Administration, Business Administration or a field related to governmental administration and by actual experience in governmental administration; or (b) an associate’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or a related field, along with a minimum of five (5) years of responsible experience in an executive or administrative municipal position involving duties comparable to those of the Business Administrator. No elected member of the Governing Body may receive such appointment as Administrator during the member's normal term of office, or within three years after the normal expiration of the member's normal term of office, except for the possibility of interim appointment to fill an absence or vacancy, not to exceed 90 days. Page | 8 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm **** Section 2. Each clause, section or subsection of this Ordinance shall be deemed a separate provision to the intent that if any such clause, section or subsection should be declared invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance shall not be affected. Section 3. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed as to the extent of such inconsistency. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication according to law. Councilman Collins asked for clarification about a provision stating that no elected member of the governing body may receive an appointment as administrator during their term or within three years after the expiration of their term, except for interim appointments of less than 90 days. Borough Attorney Vignuolo confirmed this was existing language in the ordinance and not part of the amendment being considered. ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X The Public Hearing on Ordinance 25-1579 is to take place on September 29, 2025, at 7pm in Council Chambers. Approval of Bill List The Clerk read Resolution 2025-351 by title. Authorizing Payment of Municipal Obligations WHEREAS, the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey finds and declares that certain municipal obligations have come due and are now payable; and Page | 9 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm WHEREAS, the Borough Council further finds and declares that said obligations have been itemized on the annexed schedules, which are hereby deemed part of this resolution. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey does hereby authorize payment of said municipal obligations, in accordance with the recommendations of the Chief Financial Officer in the total amount of $654,060.41. Bill lists attached to this resolution. Councilman Posnansky requested clarification on several line items, for the Borough Engineers including a battery storage system charge ($56,775.75), Main Street speed study, and Ford Avenue litigation charges. Borough Engineer McClelland explained that the battery storage item related to coordination work for that project, the speed study was authorized by the council, and the Ford Avenue charges pertained to necessary appearances at planning board meetings for the redevelopment project. ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X Consent Agenda Mayor Murray asked if any Council Member wished to pull any Resolutions from the Consent Agenda. Resolution 2025-355 was pulled from the consent agenda at Councilman Posnansky's request. The Clerk read Resolution 2025-352 in full. Resolution 2025-352 Approval of Consent Agenda for the November 10, 2025 Borough Council Meeting WHEREAS, pursuant to the Rules of Council, the Council may establish a Consent Agenda for any regular or special meetings upon certain conditions; and Page | 10 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm WHEREAS, each of the following Resolutions to be presented before the Borough Council at its November 10, 2025, meeting appear to have the unanimous approval of all members of the Borough Council: Resolution 2025-353: Authorizing waiving of fees – MFD Alcoholic Beverage Consumption license Resolution 2025-354: Authorize Hire Arianna Cuddy as Part-Time Public Safety Telecommunicator Resolution 2025-356: Authorize Consumer Utility Refunds Resolution 2025-357: Authorize Public Health Interlocal Services Contract with Middlesex County 2026-2027 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown that each of the above-listed Resolutions be approved and adopted by the Borough Council, with the same legal effect as though each was read in its entirety at the November 10, 2025, meeting and adopted by separate vote. ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X Resolutions Included on Consent Agenda: Resolution 2025-353 Authorizing Waiving Fees for the Milltown Fire Department WHEREAS, the Milltown Fire Department is holding 75th Anniversary Celebration for active Fireman Guise; and WHEREAS, the Milltown Fire Department requests a waiver of Borough fees for the permit for alcohol consumption on Borough property; and WHEREAS, any necessary licenses or inspections that may be required by State Law or Local ordinance including, but not limited to raffle, food, fire, or tent must be applied for and obtained a minimum of two weeks prior to the event; and Page | 11 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey that the Borough Council grants the request for the waiver of Borough fees. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Milltown Borough Officials, including, but not limited to the Mayor, Borough Administrator and Borough Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to take such ministerial actions as are necessary to effectuate the provisions of this resolution. Resolution 2025-354 Authorizing to Hire Public Safety Telecommunicator WHEREAS, the Borough of Milltown has a need for a part-time Public Safety Telecommunicator for the Public Safety Department; and WHEREAS, the Chief of Police interviewed candidates, and an offer of part-time employment was made to Arianna Cuddy; and WHEREAS, Arianna Cuddy accepted the position, and the offer is contingent upon passing the pre-employment physical; and WHEREAS, the Borough wishes to hire Arianna Cuddy as a part-time Public Safety Telecommunicator within the Public Safety Department effective November 12, 2025. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey that the Borough Administrator be and is hereby authorized to hire Arianna Cuddy to part-time Public Safety Telecommunicator within the Public Safety Department at the hourly salary of $19.73/hour consistent with the OPEIU 32 contract. Resolution 2025-356 Authorizing Certain Consumer Utility Refunds WHEREAS, pursuant to Borough Ordinance, certain Electric Utility Customers are required to post deposits when opening a new account with the Borough of Milltown Electric Utility, and; WHEREAS, upon the closing of such account the utility customer is entitled to a refund of moneys not used to settle their account, and; WHEREAS, the Electric Utility Department has prepared a list of those deposits that can be either refunded to the utility customer or used as credit to a Utility account. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey that the Milltown Electric Utility Department has made the Page | 12 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm disbursement of electric consumer deposits as per the following list prepared by the Electric Utility Department. Account Amount to Borough of Amount to Name Type of Account Number Milltown Customer Anna Marie Brucato 60580-3 Electric $37.46 $77.54 James & Justin Janusz 350130-2 Electric $114.98 $256.02 Renee Jeanmary 130380-2 Electric $132.16 $235.34 Resolu on 2025-357 Authorizing Execution of Interlocal Service Agreement Middlesex County Public Safety and Health – Public Health Services WHEREAS, the Borough of Milltown wishes to execute an Interlocal Agreement with the Middlesex County Department of Public Safety and Health for a Public Health service contract, and; WHEREAS, the following services are provided through the agreement: Administration Health Education County Environmental Health Act (CEHA) Environmental Programs Public Health Nursing Public Health Inspection Epidemiology and Bioterrorism WHEREAS, the Business Administrator believes the execution of such agreement would reduce municipal budget expenditures by avoiding higher priced vendors for such services. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey hereby authorize the Borough Administrator to execute an Interlocal Service Agreement with the Middlesex County Department of Public Safety and Health for Public Heath Interlocal Services in the amount of $44,776.51 for the year 2026 and $45,672.04 for the year 2027. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of the Agreement shall be maintained in the Borough Clerk’s office and be available for public inspection, and a copy shall be forwarded to the Division of Loval Government Services pursuant to NJSA 40A:65-4(b). Page | 13 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm Resolution Removed from the Consent Agenda: Resolution 2025-355 Authorizing Certain Personnel Actions – Deputy Municipal Clerk WHEREAS, the following appointment and rate has been reviewed by the Department Head of the respective department, and WHEREAS, the Department Head has recommended the appointment and rate of the following individual; and WHEREAS, the Borough Administrator concurs with the findings of the Department Head and hereby recommends to the Borough Council that the following appointment and rate be effectuated. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Milltown, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey, that the following personnel action be and is hereby authorized on the effective date included herein. Name Department Position Salary Effective Date Danielle Christensen Municipal Clerk FT Deputy Clerk $50,000/yr 12/1/2025 Councilman Posnansky expressed concern about the candidate's qualifications and employment stability, noting that the job posting required two years of experience in a municipal clerk's office, which the candidate did not have. He suggested that the hiring decision might be better left to the new council after reorganization. Borough Administrator Carr explained that the position had been posted for eight months with numerous interviews conducted. He noted that candidates with municipal experience had requested higher salaries than the borough could offer. He emphasized that the position was desperately needed as Clerk McCarthy was currently working alone in the office. Councilwoman Payne, who participated in the interview process, defended the candidate's qualifications and reminded the council that there is a 90-day probationary period. She emphasized that the personnel committee had done its due diligence and the office needed staffing. Page | 14 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm Councilman Collins echoed concerns about hiring someone without experience in a clerk's office and questioned whether this was just filling a seat rather than finding someone committed to a career path. After further discussion, Borough Administrator Carr noted that the candidate expressed interest in taking the necessary courses for certification and had transferable skills from her current employment. ROLL CALL VOTE Motion Second Aye Nay Abstain Absent Council President Zambrana X Councilman Collins X Councilman Manco X Councilwoman Payne X X Councilman Posnansky X Councilman Potter X X Reports and Comments from Elected Officials Council President Zambrana - Finance, Administration, Planning, Personnel Council President Zambrana had no report. Councilman Collins – Environmental, Health, & Social Services Councilman Collins provided a detailed report on upcoming library events, including closures, programs, and activities through the end of November. These included yoga sessions, creative journaling, estate planning presentations, movie screenings, and book club meetings. Councilwoman Payne – Public Safety Councilwoman Payne reported police statistics for October, noting 1,510 calls for service, 110 radar details, 560 motor vehicle stops, and 13 arrests. She highlighted the installation of a permanent solar- powered speed radar sign on Knox Avenue to address residents' speeding concerns. Councilman Posnansky – Public Works & Recycling (as read by Councilman Collins) Councilman Posnansky reported on senior center activities, including upcoming bus trips to Delicious Orchards, Monmouth Kitchen, Camilo's Restaurant, and Amazing Savings. He noted upcoming events including VNA nurse services and a bingo event. For the DPW, he reported that leaf bags were available through November and that leaf cleanup and branch trimming were ongoing. He also mentioned walking Albert Avenue Park with Ralph Jasionowski to determine the best area for a new bike path. Councilman Posnansky acknowledged a generous donation from the American Legion to the senior center, estimating it at approximately $2,500. Page | 15 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm Councilman Potter – Parks & Recreation Councilman Potter provided a comprehensive recreation department report, highlighting the successful fall season and several upcoming programs. He noted that the fall co-ed softball championship had concluded, the theater program would present its final performance of "Descendants," and indoor soccer clinics were beginning with record registration. He announced new cooking classes at Marcel's Kitchen, winter youth basketball registration, and other youth programs including chess, yoga, and science activities. Potter also mentioned the annual tree lighting ceremony scheduled for December 5th and an upcoming winter coat drive. For the Planning Board, he noted that the November meeting was canceled, and the next meeting was scheduled for December 3rd. He also highlighted upcoming events from the Fourth of July Committee, including a karaoke night in January and a "Red, White and Brew" event in April. Councilman Manco – Utilities Councilman Manco had no separate report as utilities were discussed earlier in the meeting. Reports from Borough Professionals Borough Attorney Peter Vignuolo Borough Attorney Vignuolo noted that the scheduled executive session was no longer necessary and had no further report. Borough Engineer Lou Ploskonka Borough Engineer Ploskonka reported that the Northbrook Drive Phase 1 project was nearing completion, with the contractor having restored lawn areas, planted replacement trees, and repaired sidewalks. He noted that the Northbrook Drive Phase 2 and Albert Avenue bike path Phase 2 projects had completed survey work and design was underway. Mr. Ploskonka also reported on the Green Space Self Storage project's water main loop installation, noting that a water shutdown was scheduled for November 18th and affected homes had been notified. Borough Engineer Mike McClelland Borough Engineer McClelland had no report. Borough Administrator Frederick Carr Borough Administrator Carr provided information about the work performed by the supplemental finance staff in response to a previous question from Councilman Posnansky. He displayed a month's worth of bank reconciliation statements, explaining that there are 16 such reconciliations done monthly, some up to 12 pages long. He emphasized the precision required in this work, noting that everything must balance to the penny. Page | 16 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm Old Business Mayor Murray asked if any member of council had old business to bring before council. Councilman Posnansky expressed appreciation for the new clerk in the finance office who had organized files that had been sitting for years. He raised concerns about staffing levels across departments, suggesting that a needs assessment should be conducted and that annual reviews were important for employees. New Business Mayor Murray opened the floor for new business, and discussion ensued regarding proposed changes to the Rules of Council. Councilman Collins objected to a proposed change that would limit council members' comments to 5 minutes, arguing it would infringe on First Amendment rights and that such changes should wait until the beginning of the new year. Councilman Posnansky agreed, stating that elected officials' job was to communicate with residents. Councilman Manco explained that he had requested the change, noting that the public is limited to 5 minutes for comments and suggesting council members should follow the same rule. He clarified that the proposed change would be considered for adoption at the January 6th reorganization meeting. Borough Attorney Vignuolo clarified that there were actually two proposed changes to the Rules of Council: one limiting council comments to 5 minutes and another to require committee reports at every meeting rather than just the first meeting of the month. He explained that these would be presented as separate resolutions at the next meeting. Public Comment Debbie Miller of 92 Ford Avenue commented on static issues with meeting broadcasts and suggested that electronic speed signs be considered for Main Street and Ford Avenue to address speeding issues. Councilwoman Payne requested that Ms. Miller email her so she could follow up with the police chief. Lee Weissenburger of 99 JFK Drive inquired about procedures for the borough to acquire property, noting he could find no documentation regarding the acquisition of "the pond." He also expressed concern about the lack of progress on dredging the "chain of lakes," noting that discussions had been ongoing for about 50 years without action. There being no others wishing to speak, Mayor Murray closed to public comment. Council Comments Council President Zambrana proposed holding a single meeting in December on the 15th instead of the scheduled meetings on the 8th and 22nd. Council members agreed to this change. Councilman Potter recognized Jimmy Walsh for completing his tenth and final New York City Marathon, noting that Walsh had raised tens of thousands of dollars for ovarian cancer awareness in memory of his mother and mother-in-law. Potter also thanked veterans for their service. Page | 17 BOROUGH OF MILLTOWN 2025 Borough Council Meeting Minutes November 10, 2025, at 7pm Councilman Collins reported on meeting with TK1 regarding audiovisual improvements for council meetings, noting they could upgrade the entire system for $2,500-$5,000. He also thanked veterans for their service. Councilman Posnansky read a tribute to veterans in honor of Veterans Day and acknowledged the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. Councilman Manco expressed satisfaction that the council was addressing utility rate changes proactively rather than letting them accumulate into larger increases. He also mentioned an upcoming fundraiser for the 12U Milltown Padres' trip to Cooperstown. Mayor Comments Mayor Murray congratulated the Marine Corps on its 250th anniversary. He then announced his intention to veto Ordinance 25-1576 regarding water meter replacement, citing concerns about the $250 monthly fine. He argued it was unreasonable to impose such penalties when the borough itself had approximately 15 meters not yet installed, and he expressed concern that the fine could create financial hardship for residents. Borough Attorney Vignuolo clarified that the veto was premature since the ordinance had not yet been adopted on second reading. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Murray asked for a motion to adjourn. Motion to adjourn made by Councilman Collins, seconded by Councilman Potter. All council members present voted Aye. Meeting adjourned at 8:33 pm. Respectfully submitted, Gretchen McCarthy Borough Clerk Approved by Council March 23, 2026 Page | 18

Get email alerts for Milltown

A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.

Report an issue with this meeting