City Council

Minutes of the Conference Meeting of the Borough Council held October 7th 2021, at 7:30 P.M. in the Council Chambers, Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey. “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: Fredric Knapp Esq. representing Borough Attorney Ursula Leo, Esq. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION Mayor Karr reported on the shared service committee meeting with the Board of Education. Information was discussed regarding programs and the ongoing relationship between the schools, the town and the police department. The next shared service meeting will be held in December at Mountain Way School. Mayor Karr reported on the 260 Tabor Road committee meeting with Davenport Village and stated the Fire Department has executed an evacuation plan in case of any emergencies. Mayor Karr and Councilmember Wagner reported on the DPW shared services meeting that was held with all DPW Superintendents and Assistant Superintendents of all the towns involved. A consultant evaluated all the equipment from each town and pros and cons were discussed on moving forward. Councilmember Verga discussed Municipay being available for online payments on our website in the future. Councilmember Verga discussed the letter received regarding the Old Wood Road path and its use of being an emergency access road. Residents would like this maintained and used as a walking/bike path. The Traffic Committee stated this is for use of emergency vehicles only. Cross discussion including ADA compliance and speaking with the engineer regarding the change of the path. EXECUTIVE SESSION Moved by Councilmember Kelly at 7:57 P. M.: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Resolution 2021-129 titled “Executive Session” be adopted. Seconded by Councilmember Goddard. Voice Vote. All in favor. At 8:25 P.M. Councilmember Cortese moved that the Executive Session be adjourned. Seconded by Councilmember Goddard. Voice Vote. All in favor. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Goddard moved that the Conference Meeting be adjourned at 8:26 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Verga. Voice Vote. All in favor. ______________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Borough Council held October 7th 2021 at 8:31 P.M. in the Council Chambers, Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND PRAYER 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: Fredric Knapp Esq. representing Borough Attorney Ursula Leo, Esq. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Kelly moved: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the Executive, Conference and Regular Meetings of September 16, 2021 be approved. Seconded by Councilmember Wagner. Voice vote. All in favor. So Ordered SWEARING IN OF POLICE DEPARTMENT LIEUTENANT Mayor Karr invited Ryan McKay and his family to join him for the official swearing in ceremony. Lieutenant McKay introduced his family and thanked everyone for giving him this opportunity. Photographs were taken. SWEARING IN OF POLICE DEPARTMENT SERGEANT Mayor Karr invited Robert Guild and his family to join him for the official swearing in ceremony. Sergeant McKay introduced his family and thanked everyone for giving him this opportunity. Photographs were taken. Chief Koroski congratulated Lieutenant McKay and Sergeant Guild and looks forward to working with them in their new roles. Chief Koroski recognized many individuals in attendance who came out to support our officers. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Kelly moved: REPORTS Treasurer, August 2021 Municipal Court, September 2021 Sanitarian, September 2021 Police Department, September 2021 Borough Engineer, Quarterly Report Resolution 2021-130 entitled, “RESOLUTION PROMOTING POLICE SERGEANT RYAN MCKAY TO THE POSITION OF LIEUTENANT WITH THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS POLICE DEPARTMENT.” Resolution 2021-131 entitled, “RESOLUTION PROMOTING POLICE OFFICER ROBERT GUILD TO THE POSITION OF SERGEANT WITH THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS POLICE DEPARTMENT.” Resolution 2021-132 entitled, “A RESOLUTION CONSENTING TO THE APPLICATION OF DAVID CVIJIC FOR WATER SERVICE OUTSIDE THE  DISTRICT OF THE SOUTHEAST MORRIS COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY.” Resolution 2021-133 entitled, “CANCELLATION OF BALANCES AND OVERPAYMENTS LESS THAN $10.00.” Resolution 2021-134 entitled, “RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR RECEIPT OF BIDS FOR FIREWORKS DISPLAY SERVICES.” Having polled the Council on September 17, 2021, an approval was given to utilize the Community Center as a Regional Disaster Recovery Center Monday through Thursday from 8:30am to 7:00pm starting September 20, 2021. The resignation of Charles Diamante, Morris Plains Pool Manager and Certified Pool Operator, be accepted, effective September 7, 2021. Tom Silk, Master Senior Operator to receive donated sick time from the following: Jacob Kiener, DPW 24 Hours Seymour Foreman, DPW 24 Hours Alfred Mulligan, DPW 40 Hours Deann Carroll, 44 Old Wood Road, Morris Plains, be hired as a Substitute Crossing Guard for the Police Department at a daily rate of $83.74, effective October 8, 2021. Steve Welsh, 2 Sylvan Drive, Morris Plains, be hired as Part-Time Temporary Grant Consultant at an hourly rate of $50.00 effective October 14, 2021. The Program Instructor attached be hired for the Fall 2021 Morris Plains Recreation program at the position, rate and date stated. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None PUBLIC INVITATION FOR DISCUSSION Mayor Karr asked if there was anyone who wanted to speak and seeing no one, he closed this public portion of the meeting. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES AND/OR DEPARTMENT HEADS Finance Councilmember Bruhn gave an update on the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual. Councilmember Bruhn reported that the Morris Plains library will be holding a shredding event on October 16th and that recent upgrades at the library included wireless printing, new copy machine and upgraded Wi-Fi. He also reported that the library has now returned to normal hours, he thanked Sheila Jain, Director, for all her hard work. Councilmember Bruhn reported on the activities of the Clerk’s Office including the PPM, parking permits, fee schedule, open enrollment for health care and OPRA requests. Public Safety Councilmember Cortese thanked the Council, Mayor and Police Chief for all their work on the Police Department promotions. Councilmember Cortese reported the bonfire is scheduled for October 23rd. He also reported on a Traffic Committee meeting which included upgrading the traffic lights at Route 202 & Route 53, center of town and at the train station. There are also plans to repaint the lines on Route 202 & Route 53 and the left turn lane at the train station. Councilmember Cortese reported that Engineer Leon Hall is working with the State to get a missing guardrail repaired along the retention basin on Route 53. Cross discussion regarding paving and State improvements along Route 53 & Route 202. Police Chief Koroski thanked the Mayor and Council for their support and decision on the Police Dept. promotions. Chief Koroski thanked Karleen Leahey, Larry Ripley, John Claffey, Steve Welsh and Pearl Law for their help during FEMA recovery at the Community Center. FEMA was there for 2 weeks to help residents from Morris and Essex County for disaster recovery from Tropical Storm Ida. Chief Koroski reported that the Drug Take Back is scheduled for October 23rd at Stop and Shop and will included representatives from the DEA and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. He also reported the drug drop box at the Municipal Building has been a success with many residents taking advantage of it. Chief Koroski reported on the upcoming “National Coming Out Day” in which the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Sheriff’s Office and surrounding municipalities will be present. Sergeant Robert Guild is the new LGBTQ liaison. Chief Koroski reported incidents of stolen cars in town in which the doors were unlocked with the keys inside and reminded everyone to lock their cars. Chief Koroski reported the officers will be wearing Breast Cancer Awareness patches for the month of October and that the patches will also be sold and the money will be donated to either a resident with breast cancer or family members who lost someone to breast cancer. Chief Koroski also reported that in November officers will be wearing camouflage patches with yellow ribbons; patches will be sold and money will be donated to our VFW Post 3401. Public Works Councilmember Wagner reported on the recent DPW shared services meeting and that the DPW leaf loader was fixed for the upcoming leaf season. Councilmember Wagner commended the joint efforts of the Beautification Committee and the DPW on their landscaping at 555 Speedwell Ave. He also reported on the new island bed on Watnong Dr. Mayor Karr reported that the DPW purchased three new trucks. Public Buildings & Grounds Councilmember Kelly reported the last Farmer’s Market of the season will be this Saturday. October 9th. She also reported on the blood drive that was held today, and the “Plant a Tree” initiative. Councilmember Kelly reported on the Eagle Scout Court of Honor celebration for Carson Barone in September and spoke about the upcoming celebration for Kevin Soutar. Councilmember Kelly reported on the Morris Plains Soccer Associations “Play for a Cure” at Simon’s Park, and that the Morris Plains Museum has reopened to the public. Councilmember Bruhn reported on a leak in the roof at the Fire Association Room and that John Signorelli will call in a roofer to assess. Cross discussion regarding faded signs in town. Public Health, Sanitation & Sewers Councilmember Goddard reported on the Municipal Alliance program “Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day” and their plans for an event with the school. Councilmember Goddard reported on the “Family Night Dinner” stating they had over 22 families participating and 4 winners will be chosen to receive a gift card from a local restaurant in town. The National Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse reports that families that eat together are less likely to smoke, drink or use drugs. Councilmember Goddard reported that the Teen Center will be holding an 8th grade event on October 15th. The 6th and 7th grades have already held events which were successful. Councilmember Goddard reported on the open Teen Center Supervisor position. Councilmember Goddard reported Wellness Day is scheduled for October 15th and flu shots will also be available for residents 50 and older at Fast ER for the month of October. Councilmember Goddard thanked Chief Koroski for his participation in the coming out day and for naming an officer as the new LGBTQ liaison. Ordinance & Public Utilities Councilmember Verga reported that “Garage Sale Days.” were a success and gave an overview on the ordinance that is being introduced this evening. Councilmember Verga reported the final 2 pole installment was completed by JCP&L and Verizon and also reported a public hearing will be held October 21st regarding a new rate component for the solar energy program. Councilmember Verga reported on a meeting with Webmaster Melissa Gibson who prepared an overview of the work done this year with the new website which she will share with the council. Councilmember Verga reported the next Planning Board meeting will be October 18th and they will review the ordinance that is introduced tonight. The Planning Board will also review plans by Cigna, regarding the parking lot at 115 Tabor Road. Councilmember Verga reported the next Board of Adjustment meeting will be October 25th at which they will discuss application completeness for a resident who wants to add an additional garage on the corner of Greenwood Road and Littleton Road. PRESENTATION OF COMMUNICATIONS, PETITIONS, ETC. Mayor Karr read a letter of thanks received from the Morris Plains Seniors for allowing their meetings to resume in Room A at the Community Center and for the tables and chairs being set up. 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. 14 -2021 AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE FOR THE PARTIAL AMENDMENT, SUPPLEMENTATION, REPEAL AND REVISION OF CHAPTER 13, LAND DEVELOPMENT IN “THE REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, 1972” SECTION 13-2.1, “DEFINITIONS OF TERMS”; SECTION 13-5.1C SCHEDULE “C” PERMITTED USES; AND SECTION 13-5.7A SCHEDULE “E” OFF-STREET PARKING SPACE 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 October 7th 2021 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on November 11th 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. ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING None. RESOLUTIONS None. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS None. VOUCHERS Councilmember Bruhn moved the vouchers for October 7th 2021 in the amount of $2,569,795.98, seconded by Councilmember Kelly. Yeas: Councilmembers Kelly, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None EXECUTIVE SESSION Moved by Councilmember Kelly at 10:07 P. M.: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Resolution 2021-135 titled “Executive Session” be adopted. Seconded by Councilmember Bruhn. So ordered. Voice Vote. All in favor. At 11:27 P.M. Councilmember Bruhn moved that the Executive Session be adjourned. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Voice Vote. All in favor. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Wagner moved that the Regular Meeting be adjourned at 11:28 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Voice Vote. All in favor. _____________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk