City Council

Minutes of the Conference Meeting of the Borough Council held May 6th 2021, at 7:30 P.M. in the Council Chambers, Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey and via Zoom. “I HEREBY ANNOUNCE AND STATE THAT ADEQUATE NOTICE OF THIS MEETING WAS PROVIDED BY VIRTUE OF A RESOLUTION SCHEDULING THE TIME, DATE AND PLACE OF MEETINGS OF THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS FOR THE YEAR 2021; WHICH RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL ON JANUARY 7th 2021, AND PUBLISHED IN THE MORRIS NEWS BEE AND THE DAILY RECORD; AND BY THE FORWARDING OF SUCH RESOLUTION TO ALL PERSONS ON THE REQUEST LIST; BY THE POSTING OF SUCH RESOLUTION ON THE BULLETIN BOARD IN THE BOROUGH HALL; ALL OF THE ABOVE ACTIONS BEING IN ACCORDANCE WITH N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.” Present on Roll Call: Mayor Jason C. Karr Councilmembers: Cathie Kelly, Council President Art Bruhn Salvatore Cortese Joan Goddard Nancy Verga Dennis Wagner Absent: None Present: Ursula Leo, Esq., Borough Attorney PUBLIC FORUM ON CANNABIS Mayor Karr welcomed all members of the public attending this meeting remotely and provided informational guidance relating to the meeting, including how to participate during all public portions of the meeting. Mayor Karr stated that tonight the Council is holding a public forum on cannabis – “the new licenses that the Borough is required to act upon by August 22nd 2021.” This public forum is a part of the process. Councilmember Verga opened this portion of the meeting with commentary pertinent to this subject saying that the first hour will be dedicated to educating residents about the local action the Borough must consider regarding cannabis licenses under the recently enacted State law legalizing recreational marijuana. This is also an opportunity for residents and businesses to share their thoughts and comments. She provided additional information about the meeting format. Councilmember Verga provided an overview of the new law beginning with the New Jersey legislation. An amendment to the State’s constitution was approved by voters in November 2020. This amendment allows for the legalization of marijuana possession and use for adults 21 years of age and older. In February 2021 Governor Murphy signed three laws into effect legalizing the recreational use of marijuana by adults 21 years old and older and establishing regulatory and licensing processes. A State cannabis regulatory commission has been formed that will develop State regulations. She provided additional information about the responsibilities of this commission; applying for a cannabis license; the six different cannabis business licenses; existing municipal law related to cannabis; taxing by the State and municipalities and other pertinent details in connection with this subject matter. She advised this presentation is on the Borough’s website. Councilmember Verga explained what the Borough’s planned approach is: (1) research and gather information and community input in order to develop recommendations to present to the Council; (2) the Council will then evaluate the recommendation(s) made; (3) once this decision is made, the Ordinance Committee will create an ordinance for introduction to the Council on First Reading; (4) it will then be forwarded to the Planning Board for its review and (5) after this review it will be introduced for a Second Reading by the Council and voted on prior to the State’s deadline. She provided specific details relating to Nos. (1) to (5) as she spoke. Councilmember Verga reviewed the guidelines for public comment on this subject. Each speaker will be allocated three minutes for comment; no questions will be answered at this meeting. This portion of the meeting will end at 8:30 P.M. If necessary, comments can be submitted via e-mail to the Borough Clerk no later than midnight tonight. Mayor Karr invited members of the public to address the Governing Body. Mr. J. D. Bowers, 56 Franklin Place, Morris Plains, spoke about his family’s history in Morris Plains. He also spoke of his experience with marijuana and his concerns about property values. Please consider limiting cannabis retailers to only those who are Borough property owners. Mayor Karr read into the record several e-mails received prior to this meeting: (1) “Cannabis sales should be banned from Morris Plains for obvious reasons.” (2) MaryClare Procanik expressed strong opposition to cannabis business licenses in Morris Plains. (3) Daniel and MaryClare Myers, 14 Academy Road, Morris Plains stated they strongly object to any cannabis business being allowed to operate in the Borough. (4) Greg and Michelle Dyer, 67 Mountain Way, Morris Plains strongly opposed any kind of cannabis business in the Borough; such a business is not consistent with the family-oriented nature of the community. Mayor Karr concluded his reading of e-mail comments and opened the meeting for comments by those online. Ms. Gail Devine, 91 Sun Valley Way, Morris Plains, stated she is not opposed to the Borough having cannabis businesses, but prefers such businesses not be located on Speedwell Avenue (Hanover Avenue and/or Route 10 would be more suitable). She said she voted to legalize marijuana for recreational use. She thanked the Governing Body for holding their meetings via Zoom. Mr. Gerry Sittmann, 1 Thompson Way, Morris Plains, said he is opposed to any retail cannabis businesses being anywhere in the Borough. This is not what is needed in the Borough. Mr. Greg Devine, 91 Sun Valley Way, Morris Plains, said he would be more supportive of the manufacturing side of cannabis versus the retail business side; nothing should operate in the downtown or residential areas. He also appreciates the Zoom meetings. Ms. Laurie Fu, 43 Parker Drive, Morris Plains, spoke about issues such as any possible zoning changes; her experiences working with the Municipal Alliance group; pros and cons of the use of marijuana and CBD products and that she would like to submit certain research she has compiled. Mr. Ahmed Alamer, 157 Littleton Road, Morris Plains, provided his comments concluding that he strongly opposes any cannabis business operating in the Borough. Mr. Patrick McNichol, 7 Juniper Drive, Morris Plains, said he is opposed to any retail or cultivator businesses being located in the Borough. He does support medical marijuana services. Mrs. Lee Connor, 2 Tower Hill Road, Morris Plains, said she “hopes the committee will approach this with an open mind to the extent possible.” As a taxpayer, she is curious as to what the tax revenues might be. She thanked the Governing Body for its work. Mr. Michael Conner, 2 Tower Hill Road, Morris Plains, said he believes there “should be a compelling economic reason to say yes to this.” He provided commentary to support his belief. Mr. Charles J. (C.J.) Mapleloft, 56 Franklin Place, Morris Plains, stated that “change is never easy” and that the Borough should welcome new businesses and traffic to the community. He offered a variety of suggestions that could be helpful to such an operation. Mr. Ahmed Alamer, 157 Littleton Road, Morris Plains, presented a counter argument to Mr. Mapleloft’s position. Mr. Charles Mapleloft, 56 Franklin Place, Morris Plains, offered a rebuttal to Mr. Alamer’s statements. He also mentioned this could be a teaching moment for children to reduce the taboo, hidden nature of marijuana. Ms. Tina Genest, 11 Forest Avenue, Morris Plains, complimented and thanked the many speakers on their thoughtful comments and the Governing Body for holding this public hearing and establishing a study group. Ms. Jacquelyn Kiszeweski, 42 Jaqui Avenue, Morris Plains, shared her thoughts about this issue. She spoke supportively of medical marijuana, although it is not actually the subject of tonight’s meeting. Ms. Clorinda Landi, 94 Littleton Road, Morris Plains, said she is against a marijuana business being located in the Borough. She thanked the Governing Body for this opportunity to speak. Ms. Penny Jones wanted to make a comment, but a technical glitch prevented her from doing so. Mayor Karr suggested she email her comment to the Borough Clerk. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION Mayor Karr asked if anyone had any questions or comments for this Conference Session. No one had any questions or comments. EXECUTIVE SESSION None. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Verga moved that the Conference Meeting be adjourned at 8:22 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Voice Vote. All in favor. ___________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Borough Council held May 6th 2021 at 8:31 P.M. in the Council Chambers, Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey and via Zoom PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND PRAYER “I HEREBY ANNOUNCE AND STATE THAT ADEQUATE NOTICE OF THIS MEETING WAS PROVIDED BY VIRTUE OF A RESOLUTION SCHEDULING THE TIME, DATE AND PLACE OF MEETINGS OF THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS FOR THE YEAR 2021; WHICH RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL ON JANUARY 7th 2021, AND PUBLISHED IN THE MORRIS NEWS BEE AND THE DAILY RECORD; AND BY THE FORWARDING OF SUCH RESOLUTION TO ALL PERSONS ON THE REQUEST LIST; BY THE POSTING OF SUCH RESOLUTION ON THE BULLETIN BOARD IN THE BOROUGH HALL; ALL OF THE ABOVE ACTIONS BEING IN ACCORDANCE WITH N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.” NOTICE OF MEETING MORRIS PLAINS BOROUGH COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR Thursday May 6, 2021 WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PERSON WITH REMOTE ZOOM AND TELEPHONE CALL-IN OPTIONS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the Morris Plains Borough Council meeting presently scheduled for May 6, 2021 will be conducted in person with social distancing requirements being observed and with REMOTE Zoom meeting and telephone call-in options from off-site locations due to the ongoing State of Public Health Emergency pursuant to the New Jersey Governor’s Executive Orders, COVID-19 public health concerns and social distancing requirements. The meeting will be held at Morris Plains Borough Hall, Council Chambers, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains at 7:30 p.m. Formal action will be taken. To comply with the social distancing requirements established by the Governor through Executive Order, the maximum number of persons permitted in the Council Chamber is 35% of the maximum seating capacity, subject to a minimum social distancing requirement of six-feet between all persons. As a result of those requirements, fifteen (15) members of the public can be physically present at the meeting in addition to the Mayor, Borough Council, and Borough staff/professionals. To reserve a seat, please call the Borough Clerk at (973) 538-2224. Any documents that would be viewed or made available to members of the public physically present at the meeting shall be made available in advance of the public meeting for download on the Borough’s website, www.morrisplainsboro.org and made visible during a Zoom video broadcast of the public meeting. The Borough Council will follow its normal protocol for this meeting which means that there will be an opportunity for public comment participation. Residents and members of the public participating remotely will be able to ask questions or comment on the discussion when the public comment section is announced, either by audio and video in the Zoom remote format or by audio in a telephone call-in format. Until the public comment portions of the meeting, members of the public participating remotely will be muted. Once the public portions of the meeting are concluded, members of the public will be again muted. Please note that while muted, members of the public will still be able to hearing the Mayor and Borough Council conducting business. In advance of the remote public meeting, members of the public may submit public comments or questions to the Mayor and Borough Council in written letter form, or by contacting the Borough Clerk by email at rdenman@morrisplainsboro.org prior to the meeting up until 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. All public comments and questions submitted in advance must include the individual’s name and address. If residents and members of the public encounter problems in submitting questions or comments remotely during the public meeting, they may submit such questions and comments to the Borough Council via email to the Borough Clerk at rdenman@morrisplainsboro.org. Questions and comments must be submitted via email by Midnight on the date of the meeting, in order to be included in the record of the meeting. The Meeting Agenda and Consent Calendar will be available at www.morrisplainsboro.org Morris Plains Borough Council Meeting Time: May 6, 2021 - Meetings typically run two hours Conference Session starts at 7:30PM Regular Session starts at 8:30PM If an Executive Session is needed, the Borough Council will depart the meeting during the Conference Session for a confidential Closed Executive Session and will return at 8:30PM for the Regulation Session.  If a second Executive Session is needed during the Regular Session, the Borough Council will depart the meeting during the Regular Session and upon adjournment of the Closed Executive Session will return to the meeting to conclude the Regular Session. There are two options for joining the meeting: 1 - Join Zoom Meeting URL from computer or mobile device with Wi-Fi: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787644794?pwd=MTU5SGlZcDhDY0ZPMWh5ZEZHbk4wZz09 Meeting ID: 827 8764 4794 Password: 049102 It is recommended that you download the app on your computer or mobile device prior to the meeting. 2 - Dial in by cell phone or landline (audio only): 1-929-436-2866 Meeting ID 82787644794 Password 049102 The Meeting Agenda and Consent Calendar will be available at www.morrisplainsboro.org Present on Roll Call: Mayor Jason C. Karr Councilmembers: Cathie Kelly, Council President Art Bruhn Salvatore Cortese Joan Goddard Nancy Verga Dennis Wagner Present: Ursula Leo, Esq., Borough Attorney Mayor Karr welcomed all members of the public attending this meeting remotely and provided informational guidance relating to the meeting, including how to participate during all public portions of the meeting. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Kelly moved: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the Executive, Conference and Regular Meetings of April 1st 2021be approved. Seconded by Councilmember Verga. So ordered. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: Councilmembers Goddard, Verga APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Kelly moved: BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Morris Plains, that the attached reports be accepted and that said reports be kept on file in the Clerk’s Office: REPORTS Tax Collector, March 2021 Treasurer, March 2021 Municipal Court April 2021 Police Department, April 2021 Resolution 2021-61 entitled, “RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS AUTHORIZING TEMPORARY EMERGENCY RELIEF PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 6- 2020 TO ARTHUR’S TAVERN, 700 SPEEDWELL AVENUE, MORRIS PLAINS.” Resolution 2021-62 entitled, “2021 BUDGET EXAMINATION PROGRAM.”  Resolution 2021-63 entitled, “P.B.A. #298 MORRIS COUNTY CORRECTIONS RAFFLE LICENSE NO. 322-21.” Resolution 2021-64 entitled, “RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF NOT EXCEEDING $9,277,700.00 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, NEW JERSEY.” Resolution 2021-65 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF USE OF AN ONLINE REVERSE AUCTION FOR THE PURCHASE OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY SERVICES FOR PUBLIC USE FOR STREET LIGHT SERVICE.” Resolution 2021-66 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS AUTHORIZING THE USE OF AN ONLINE REVERSE AUCTION FOR THE PURCHASE OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY SERVICES FOR PUBLIC USE FOR NON-STREET LIGHT SERVICE.” Resolution 2021-67 entitled, “RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT TO EMILCOTT TO ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND ODOR ISSUES CONCERNING CANNABIS CULTIVATION FACILITIES.” Resolution 2021-68 entitled, “REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT.” The Morris Plains Rotary be granted permission to hold “Uncle Frank’s Fishing Contest” on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Community Park Pond. Nicholas Leyhan be hired for summer help in the Department of Public Works at an hourly rate of $12.25, effective May 17, 2021. Christian Votapek be hired for summer help in the Department of Public Works at an hourly rate of $12.25, effective May 17, 2021. Dillon LaStella be hired for summer help in the Department of Public Works at an hourly rate of $12.25, effective May 17, 2021. Matt & Stephanie Osborne, 38 Washington Avenue, be granted permission to serve alcoholic beverages at a Mother’s Day/Birthday Celebration to be held Sunday, May 9, 2021 from 1:00pm to dusk at Community Park Pavilion. Seconded by Councilmember Wagner. Yeas: Councilmembers Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Kelly, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: Councilmember Verga GREETINGS OF PUBLIC AND INVITATION FOR DISCUSSION Mayor Karr opened the meeting to the public for any discussion; he provided detailed information on how the public can participate. There were no e-mail comments/questions. Mr. Gerry Sittmann, 1 Thompson Way, Morris Plains, spoke on matters relating to the Recreation Commission and offered to provide additional information to the Governing Body as needed. Mayor Karr said there were no questions now. Seeing no one else indicating a desire to speak, he closed this portion of the meeting. Mayor Karr reported on several matters: (1) the recently-held meeting with New Jersey Transit; (2) congratulations to the Borough School buildings and grounds maintenance team for the award they won from the Friends of Education. (3) recognizing all teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week; (4) recognizing that today is National Nurses Day and (5) recognizing Firefighter Appreciation Day on May 4th 2021. He thanked all the people and groups mentioned above. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES AND/OR DEPARTMENT HEADS Finance Councilmember Bruhn updated on the electric vehicle charging station; which should be completed in early June. He spoke about the work being done in the Clerk’s Office, including OPRA requests, various license renewals and updating of financial disclosure forms. Councilmember Bruhn gave an update on the clerk-typist position stating that the interview process will begin next week. The Annual budget will also be adopted at this meeting. Public Safety Councilmember Cortese updated on Fire Department news. Police Department’s Report Police Chief Koroski spoke about a May 3rd 2021 departmental meeting and the activities that were part of this meeting. The Emergency Operations Plan was submitted to the State; he thanked all who assisted in the preparation of this plan. He recognized the officers involved with the drug take-back program in late April, adding the Borough had the second highest total collected in Morris County. The next drug take-back event will be in October 2021. He advised the Department’s mission and vision are on the Department’s website. Mayor Karr asked for a moment of silence in honor of past Fire Department Chief Brian Rongo, the father of the present Chief, Kevin Rongo and Mary Everett, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary. Public Works Councilmember Wagner reported on Department of Public Works (DPW) activities and work being performed. He thanked both the DPW staff and the Beautification Committee for its ongoing efforts to beautify areas of the Borough. He spoke about Go Morris Plains events and their efforts to sign people up/hand out the magnets/stickers. He spoke about two summits that will be taking place, one is on sustainability and the other on bicycling and walking. He shared comments made at the last Beautification Committee meeting relating to garbage issues. Public Buildings & Grounds Councilmember Kelly reported on the Local Government Week event held April 24 and thanked everyone involved. Councilmember Kelly reported on blood drive activities, the tree identification project for Roberts Garden, the Memorial Day Parade, Family Day and fireworks, the Parade and Family Day will take place with a limited capacity. Councilmember Kelly reported on Recreation Committee activities, the Swim Team, the summer theater, the Senior Picnic, basketball hoops and sandbox at Community Park. She advised that Morris Plains Soccer is breaking from Morris United and going to Denville. Public Health, Sanitation & Sewers Councilmember Goddard spoke about the Municipal Alliance and one of its newer programs that involves family activities. She updated on upcoming Teen Center activities, Board of Health programs and the rabies clinic. She commented on the growing problems with “dog residue” problems throughout the Borough. She advised of an upcoming hazardous waste drop off on Saturday, May 22nd 2021. Ms. Rigby, the art teacher from Borough School, will be working on a mural at the train underpass. Ordinance & Public Utilities Councilmember Verga thanked Councilmember Kelly for her efforts in connection with the Local Government Week activities; she also thanked the Morris Plains Little League and everyone else who helped and those who participated. Councilmember Verga gave updates on the work being done in the Construction Office and on a number of their current projects. She provided a detailed report on the work of the Ordinance Committee, including cannabis policy decisions, minor site plans and outdoor dining. Councilmember Verga reported on the recent progress of the Website Committee and online payments. She reminded everyone that May is Mental Health Month – one in five Americans will experience mental illness requiring treatment at some time during their lives and shared general and personal commentary. Councilmember Cortese commented on Morris Plains Soccer splitting from Morris United. Cross discussion regarding soccer among Mayor Karr, Councilmember Cortese and Mr. Sittmann, including issues relating to insurance, a variety of costs and declining enrollment in Morris Plains Soccer. PRESENTATION OF COMMUNICATIONS, PETITIONS, ETC. Mayor Karr asked if anyone had any communications, petitions or anything else to present. Seeing no one he closed this portion of the meeting. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES Councilmember Verga introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. 5-2021 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13, “LAND DEVELOPMENT”, REGARDING SITE PLAN REQUIREMENTS Councilmember Kelly seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Verga offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on May 6th 2021 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on May 20th 2021 at 8:30 P.M. prevailing time in the Municipal Building in the said Borough, this Council will further consider for Second Reading and final passage of said ordinance. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of this Borough be and she is hereby directed to publish and mail the proper notice therefor, including the ordinance, post the ordinance on the Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and make copies available to members of the general public. Councilmember Goddard seconded the resolution. Voice vote. All in favor. Councilmember Verga introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. 6-2021 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 19A OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS ENTITLED “SOUTHEAST MORRIS COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY” Councilmember Bruhn seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Verga offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on May 6th 2021 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on May 20th 2021 at 8:30 P.M. prevailing time in the Municipal Building in the said Borough, this Council will further consider for Second Reading and final passage of said ordinance. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of this Borough be and she is hereby directed to publish and mail the proper notice therefor, including the ordinance, post the ordinance on the Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and make copies available to members of the general public. Councilmember Goddard seconded the resolution. Voice vote. All in favor. Councilmember Verga introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. 7- 2021____ AN ORDINANCE TO APPROPRIATE $125,000.00 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, STATE OF NEW JERSEY Councilmember Wagner seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Verga offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on May 6th 2021 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on May 20th 2021 at 8:30 P.M. prevailing time in the Municipal Building in the said Borough, this Council will further consider for Second Reading and final passage of said ordinance. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of this Borough be and she is hereby directed to publish and mail the proper notice therefor, including the ordinance, post the ordinance on the Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and make copies available to members of the general public. Councilmember Kelly seconded the resolution. Voice vote. All in favor. Councilmember Verga introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. 8- 2021____ AN ORDINANCE TO APPROPRIATE $60,000.00 FROM THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR THE PURCHASE OF POLICE OFFICER BODY WORN CAMERAS IN AND BY THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, STATE OF NEW JERSEY Councilmember Bruhn seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Verga offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on May 6th 2021 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on May 20th 2021 at 8:30 P.M. prevailing time in the Municipal Building in the said Borough, this Council will further consider for Second Reading and final passage of said ordinance. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of this Borough be and she is hereby directed to publish and mail the proper notice therefor, including the ordinance, post the ordinance on the Bulletin Board in the Municipal Building and make copies available to members of the general public. Councilmember Cortese seconded the resolution. Voice vote. All in favor. ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING None. RESOLUTIONS None. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Adoption of 2021 Budget – Public Hearing Mayor Karr introduced Ana Thomas and Valerie Dolan, Auditor, and thanked them for all their hard work in connection with the development of the Borough’s budget and read a statement in connection with the preparation of the budget. He shared some budget highlights. He opened the public hearing on the budget. Councilmember Bruhn thanked Ms. Thomas, the Finance Department, the Department Heads, the Mayor and Council and all those who worked on the budget. Ms. Dolan stated she believes this is a fiscally sound budget and provided statements to support this belief. Ms. Thomas thanked all those who worked on putting this budget together. The Clerk stated no one emailed with any comments or questions. Seeing no one who desired to comment on the budget, Mayor Karr closed this public hearing on the budget. Councilmember Bruhn moved the adoption of 2021 municipal budget in the amount of $11,728,724.72. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None Mayor Karr thanked everyone for their help in preparing the budget. NEW BUSINESS None. VOUCHERS Councilmember Bruhn moved the vouchers for May 6th 2021 in the amount of $3,207,341.02, seconded by Councilmember Verga. Yeas: Councilmembers Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Kelly, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None EXECUTIVE SESSION Moved by Councilmember Kelly at 9:31 P. M.: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Resolution 2021-60 titled “Executive Session” be adopted. Seconded by Councilmember Goddard. So ordered. Voice Vote. All in favor. At 9:55 P.M. Councilmember Verga moved that the Executive Session be adjourned. Seconded by Councilmember Goddard. Voice Vote. All in favor. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Cortese moved that the Regular Meeting be adjourned at 9:55 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Goddard. Voice Vote. All in favor. _____________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk