City Council

Minutes of the Conference Meeting of the Borough Council held February 16th 2023, at 7:32 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 2023; WHICH RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL ON JANUARY 5th 2023, AND PUBLISHED IN THE MORRIS NEWS BEE AND THE DAILY RECORD; AND BY 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: Dennis Wagner, Council President Art Bruhn Salvatore Cortese Cathie Kelly Nancy Verga Absent: Joan Goddard Present: John E. Horan, Esq., Borough Attorney ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION Mayor Karr stated tonight’s discussion will be about proposed permitted usages in nonresidential zones. This is not a Master Plan amendment or reexamination, but recommendations that are already in the Master Plan. This will be a Mayor and Council ordinance and the Planning Board will make sure it is not inconsistent with the Master Plan. Mayor Karr introduced members of the Master Plan Committee present, Frank Druetzler, Suzanne McCluskey, Ron Kelly and Councilmember Sal Cortese. Also present is Planner Liz Leheny and Engineer Leon Hall. Liz Leheny gave an overview of the changes which include updates on definitions of uses and removal of out dated or obsolete uses. Ms. Leheny also gave an overview of changes that can be made. Cross discussion with Councilmembers, Ms. Leheny and Master Plan Committee members. In closing, Ms. Leheny stated this conversation was helpful, this is the first step and the document is neither done nor ready for adoption. Discussions will continue at the next Planning Board meeting and discussions with the Council will continue. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Bruhn moved that the Conference Meeting be adjourned at 8:32 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Kelly. Voice Vote. All in favor. ______________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Borough Council held February 16, 2023 at 8:34 P.M. in the Council Chambers, Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND PRAYER APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Wagner moved: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the Executive, Conference and Regular Meetings of February 2, 2023 be approved. Seconded by Councilmember Verga. Voice vote. Yeas: Councilmembers Wagner, Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Wagner moved: REPORTS Building Inspector, January 2023 Animal Control, January 2023 Borough Clerk, January 2023 Municipal Court January 2023 Animal Licensing January 2023 Tipping Fees December 2022, January 2023 Resolution 2023-42 entitled, “RESOLUTION ADOPTING A TEMPORARY CAPITAL BUDGET FOR 2023”. Resolution 2023-43 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF IMPLEMENTING A MULTI-PHASE PROJECT TO STABILIZE THE STREAMBANKS OF THE WHIPPANY RIVER AND ITS TRIBUTARIES AND REMOVE OBSTRUCTIONS AND DEBRIS TO PREVENT FLOODING.” Resolution 2023-44 entitled, “RESOLUTION ENTITLED FIRST LIMO CAR SERVICE, LLC LIMOUSINE DRIVER LICENSE NO. LD1-MS-2023.” Kelvin Preciado, Police Officer, Police Department, to receive donated sick time from the following: Michael Koroski, Chief, PD 40 Hours Michael Rolph, Lieutenant, PD 40 Hours Ryan McKay, Lieutenant, PD 20 Hours Peter Rolph, Sergeant, PD 20 Hours Lily Wendorf, Morris Plains be granted permission to hold a walk to raise money towards a fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in the Borough along the designated route on Sunday, February 19th 2023 beginning at 11:00 A.M. with the Police Department to provide traffic control and notification to the affected residents, and any necessary barricades provided. The Borough Council approve the membership application of Neil P. Hartmann Jr., 12 Granniss Ave, Morris Plains, as a member of the Morris Plains Fire Department. Grant Writer, Steve Welsh be granted permission to apply for the 2023 AARP Challenge Grant. The Borough Council approve the membership application of Michael R. Granade, 84 Mountain Way, Morris Plains, as a member of the Morris Plains Fire Department. Seconded by Councilmember Bruhn. Yeas: Councilmembers Wagner, Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None PUBLIC INVITATION FOR DISCUSSION Suzanne McCluskey, 129 Mountain Way, discussed the Farmer’s Market history which developed in 2003 and all the duties involved with being the Market Manager. Ms. McCluskey discussed the donation from Provident Bank since its conception and ultimately resigned as Market Manager due to wanting to spend more time with her family. Mayor Karr expressed his shock and thanks for the unlimited hours and dedication throughout the years. Mayor Karr expressed a heartfelt thank you and stated this will be a big loss to the Market. Councilmember Kelly stated Ms. McCluskey will be missed and thanked her for all of her time and dedication. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES AND/OR DEPARTMENT HEADS Finance Councilmember Cortese thanked Ms. McCluskey for all of her hard work at the Farmer’s Market. He also reported the budget meeting is in 15 days. Mr. Cortese stated Sheila Jaine from the Library asked him to thank Mayor Karr for setting up Mary Chou to do a presentation for children on the Lunar New Year. Mr. Cortese expressed his hope for all coaches and residents involved in recreation sports to become CPR certified due to the recent tragedies. Cross discussion with Mayor Karr and Chief Koroski on CPR training to coaches and residents that will be offered to whoever would like to attend and will be available in the Spring. Public Safety Councilmember Verga thanked Ms. McCluskey for her work at the Farmer’s Market. Ms. Verga reported the volume in court is picking up and the next in person session will be on March 7th. She also reported the Court Administrator attended 2 training classes and will be attending a monthly County meeting which will include training on Community Connections which will provide services to help individuals with criminal backgrounds to reintegrate themselves into society. Ms. Verga reported on the Fire Department rapid intervention class and that March 2nd is the 2nd annual Chili Cook Off. She stated she received the 2023 budget requests from Chis Shay, Fire Prevention Officer. Police Department’s Report Chief Koroski reported that two new officers will be released from field training, Officer Lipshutz next week and Officer Cardoniga in 2 weeks. Chief Koroski reported on the Blue Envelope Program which assists officers in recognizing if a driver is on the autism spectrum since their documents would be in a blue envelope. Mock police stops with autistic drivers will be set up. Chief Koroski reported on crosswalk enforcement for vehicles not yielding to pedestrians and pedestrians not properly crossing our roadways. Mayor Karr stated the path at the end of Oldwood Road and Hickory Drive is being used by Amazon and UPS deliveries and Chief Koroski is working on putting a stop to that use. Public Works No report in the absence of Councilwoman Goddard. Engineers Report Mr. Hall reported on the Whippany River Flood Mitigation Task Force which includes 5 towns; Hanover Township, East Hanover Township, Parsippany Troy Hills Township, Borough of Florham Park and Borough of Morris Plains and County of Morris. The Whippany River has caused flooding due to increased development and debris. Congresswoman Sherrill helped to obtain a grant for $1,500,000.00 to clear and de snag the river and more money will need to be obtained to restore the river back to its original state which will take decades to accomplish and the NJDEP will need to be involved. Mr. Hall reported on building projects on Route 53 and American Road and the sidewalk improvement project on Route 53; once the permit is issued bidding can be completed for the work and the project should be completed in 2023. Cross discussion with Councilmember Cortese on the Whippany River clean up. Public Buildings & Grounds Councilmember Bruhn reported on recent Recreation and Shade Tree meetings Ten trees have been planted this year and the goal is for a total of 15. The next Memorial Day Parade meeting will be February 22nd. Public Health, Sanitation & Sewers Councilmember Kelly reported on Municipal Alliance LEAD program and pet therapy classes. She also reported on the Morristown High School play Cinderella, which will be performed for the Senior group, and the Stage Fun play Leap Day. Ms. Kelly reported on upcoming programs with F.A.S.T; Families and Schools Together Working for Children. She also reported on Earth Week programs and a Turtle Show Ellie Falco will be presenting in both schools. Ordinance & Public Utilities Councilmember Wagner thanked Ms. McCluskey for all of her work on the Farmer’s Market. Mr. Wagner reported on a meeting with the Construction Official regarding his retirement, the filling of his position and safety measures at the Annex Building. Mr. Wagner reported on SMCMUA grant money for low income housing assistance program. He also reported on a meeting with the Zoning Officer regarding short term boarders and provided his recommendations and will meet with his committee. Mr. Wagner reported JCP&L will begin replacing/upgrading electric wires and systems. Cross discussion regarding the work that will be completed. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES Councilmember Wagner introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE 1-2023 BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF VARIOUS ROADS IN AND BY THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $827,200 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $785,840 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR FINANCING SUCH APPROPRIATION. Councilmember Verga seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Wagner offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on February 16, 2023 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on March 2, 2023 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 Wagner introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE 2-2023 BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF GLENBROOK ROAD IN AND BY THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, IN THE COUNTY OF MORRIS, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $370,700 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $120,700 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE BOROUGH FOR FINANCING SUCH APPROPRIATION. Councilmember Bruhn seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Wagner offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on February 16, 2023 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on March 2, 2023 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. Councilmember Wagner introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. 3 - 2023 AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE PARTIAL AMENDMENT, SUPPLEMENTATION AND REPEAL OF CERTAIN FEES SET FORTH IN THE FEE SCHEDULE OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, CHAPTER 2, SECTION 2-46, IN THE "REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, NEW JERSEY, 1972”. Councilmember Bruhn seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Wagner offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on February 16, 2023 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on March 2, 2023 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 Verga seconded the resolution. Voice vote. All in favor. Councilmember Wagner introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. 4-2023 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 27, TOWING, ROAD SERVICE, AND STORAGE OF VEHICLES, SECTIONS 27-6 ENTITLED FEES FOR REMOVAL AND STORAGE OF VEHICLES AND 27-10 ENTITLED VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES OF THE "REVISED ORDINANCES OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, NEW JERSEY, 1972” TO ESTABLISH THAT A VEHICLE’S FINANCING OR LEASING COMPANY SHALL BE NOTIFIED WHEN THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN IMPOUNDED FOR THIRTY-SIX HOURS. Councilmember Kelly seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga, Wagner Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Wagner offered the following resolution:  WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on February 16, 2023 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on March 2, 2023 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 None. NEW BUSINESS None. VOUCHERS Councilmember Cortese moved the vouchers for February 16th, 2023 in the amount of $232,875.22 seconded by Councilmember Kelly. Yeas: Councilmembers Wagner, Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly, Verga Nays: None Absent: Goddard Abstain: None EXECUTIVE SESSION Moved by Councilmember Wagner at 9:26 P. M.: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Resolution 2023-41 titled “Executive Session” be adopted. Seconded by Councilmember Bruhn. Voice Vote. All in favor. At 9:45 P.M. Councilmember Bruhn moved that the Executive Session be adjourned. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Voice Vote. All in favor. REGULAR MEETING RE OPENED Cross discussion continued regarding Limited Manufacturing Zones and use variances. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Kelly moved that the Regular Meeting be adjourned at 9:54 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Voice Vote. All in favor. _____________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk