City Council

Minutes of the Conference Meeting of the Borough Council held September 19, 2024, at 7:31 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 2024; WHICH RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED BY THE BOROUGH COUNCIL ON JANUARY 4th 2024, 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: Nancy Verga Art Bruhn Salvatore Cortese Joan Goddard Cathie Kelly Dennis Wagner Absent: None Present: John E. Horan, Esq., Borough Attorney SWEARING IN OF POLICE DEPARTMENT LIEUTENANT Mayor Karr invited Robert Guild and his family to join him for the official swearing in ceremony. Lieutenant Guild introduced his family and thanked everyone for giving him this opportunity. Photographs were taken. SWEARING IN OF POLICE DEPARTMENT SERGEANT Mayor Karr invited Joseph Heinz and his family to join him for the official swearing in ceremony. Sergeant Heinz introduced his family and thanked everyone for giving him this opportunity. Photographs were taken. Chief Koroski congratulated Lieutenant Guild and Sergeant Heinz and looks forward to working with them in their new roles and thanked all the families who attended this evening. Mayor Karr congratulated everyone and thanked Chief Koroski for his outstanding job as Chief. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION Councilmember Kelly thanked Mayor Karr for the Mental Health Symposium and all the speakers present that discussed addiction and anxiety. Councilmember Goddard reported the path on American Road to the train station is still not adequately lit and would like the process of getting estimates, possible solar lights or grants to get started. Mayor Karr stated the process has started and Superintendent Signorelli is looking into prices and solar lights. Councilmember Bruhn reported he is receiving complaints about the lights on Beech Drive stating the lights are too bright. Mayor Karr said Engineer. Leon Hall is looking into seeing if the lights need shields. Councilmember Bruhn reported Superintendent Signorelli and Acting Assistant Superintendent Rongo found an employee in Denville, who is also a CDL trainer that charges $700 per employee who would then reimburse the town. This would be a shared services agreement. Councilmember Goddard asked if the DPW contract would have to be amended. Cross discussion with Attorney Horan. Mayor Karr discussed the new planters in the alley between Bliss and the convenience store purchased by the Business Development Committee. Monrroy Designs donated the trees for the pots. String lights will also be hung between Tony’s Pizza and J’s Barbershop. Councilmember Verga discussed an event with the County on September 13th and the Mental Health Symposium at which she received many resources for individuals in all types of situations. Ms. Verga would like to work with Melissa Gibson to get links to resources on our website to help those in crisis. Mayor Karr stated resources and links will be on the video from the symposium which will be posted in a few weeks and resources can be added with the video in a section on the website. Councilmember Verga stated there has not been a Planning Board update from the liaison since June. Mayor Karr stated the liaison can give an update at council meetings if time permits; Planning Board minutes will be added to the Masterfile for review and are posted on our website. Councilmember Verga inquired about updates on the online building permits. Councilmember Wagner discussed the process of demonstrations for different programs. The construction official will make a decision on a company soon. Permits will be digital in real time shared on a tablet for all inspectors to review. Cross discussion. Councilmember Verga asked about the tree ordinance that was pulled in June due to wording that did not comply with the State DEP requirements and that did not include all properties. Councilmember Kelly stated an update will be given during her report. EXECUTIVE SESSION Moved by Councilmember Verga at 8:00 P. M.: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Resolution 2024-139 entitled “Executive Session” be adopted. Seconded by Councilmember Kelly. Voice Vote. All in favor. At 8:30 P.M. Councilmember Cortese moved that the Executive Session be adjourned. Seconded by Councilmember Kelly. Voice Vote. All in favor. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Verga moved that the Conference Meeting be adjourned at 8:30 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Bruhn. Voice Vote. All in favor. ______________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Borough Council held September 19, 2024 at 8:33 P.M. in the Council Chambers, Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND PRAYER Notice to members of the Governing Body and Borough Staff: Any use of electronic devices during this meeting shall be used solely for the purposes of Borough business. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Verga moved: THAT the minutes of the Conference, Executive and Regular Meetings of September 3, 2024 be approved. Seconded by Councilmember Goddard. Yeas: Councilmembers Verga, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Kelly, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Verga moved: REPORTS Sanitarium, July 2024 Grant Writer, August 2024 Municipal Court, August 2024 Police Department, August 2024 Building Inspector, August 2024 Animal Control, August 2024 Animal Licensing, August 2024 Borough Clerk, August 2024 Tax Collector, August 2024 Treasurer, August 2024 Fire Prevention, August 2024 Resolution 2024-140 entitled, “RESOLUTION PROMOTING POLICE OFFICER JOSEPH HEINZ TO THE POSITION OF SERGEANT WITH THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS POLICE DEPARTMENT.” Resolution 2024-141 entitled, “REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT.” Resolution 2024-142 entitled, “RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, PURSUANT TO N.J.S.A. 52:34-6.2(B)(3) TO ENTER INTO A INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED COOPERATIVE ENTITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF PURCHASING FIRE APPARATUS.” Resolution 2024-143 entitled, “RESOLUTION REQUESTING APPROVAL OF ITEMS OF REVENUE AND APPROPRIATION NJSA 40A;4-87 NJ DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NJPDES STORMWATER ASSISTANCE $25,000.00.” Having polled the council on September 9, 2024 the excused absence of Chris Shay, Fire Prevention Official, Relief Association Delegate for the Morris Plains Volunteer Fire Department, to attend the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association annual convention in Wildwood on September 12 & 13, 2024, as per the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual was approved. The residents of Walsh Way (West of Oregon Trail) be granted permission to hold a block party on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. with a rain date of Sunday, October 6, 2024 from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Further permission to serve alcoholic beverages be granted. The DPW will provide the necessary barricades. Maria Emilia Lopez, 2 Martin Luther King Ave, Morristown be hired as part-time Cleaning Maintenance at an annual salary of $21,840.00, pro-rated, effective September 9, 2024. The Morris Plains Republican Club be granted permission to serve alcoholic beverages at their Annual Picnic to be held Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 11:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., at the Community Park Pavilion. The Borough Clerk be authorized to advertise for the position of Part-Time Teen Center Supervisor.  Downtown Morris Plains be granted permission to hold a Pumpkin Illumination at the Speedwell Avenue Extension Merchant Block on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. and that permission be granted to serve alcoholic beverages. Seconded by Councilmember Wagner. Yeas: Councilmembers Verga, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Kelly, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None PUBLIC INVITATION FOR DISCUSSION Bill Grecco, 9 Higbie Way, thanked everyone for taking care of cutting the high grasses at Kohl’s shopping center and inquired about the process for adding additional police officers. Mayor Karr stated an ordinance was passed to change the number of officers from 17 to 21. Jill Cecere, 11 Dayton Road, had questions regarding the allowance of drive thru restaurants in the B-2 zone. Mayor Karr stated the addition was made with recommendations from the Business Development Committee, Planning Board and Council considered because of Covid when everything was turning to drive up/pick up. This was a 2-year process and changes were made until it was adopted. Cross discussion. Ms. Cecere stated someone had to have brought up the idea of adding a drive thru in the B-2 zone and she is not pointing a finger at anyone. Cross discussion. Ms. Cecere inquired how drive thru fast food would coincide with the masterplan. Mayor Karr stated upgrades were made to nonresidential zones and 139 uses were added and some were removed. Ms. Cecere asked why not an urgent care? Mayor Karr stated it may be due to lack of parking. Ms. Cecere asked if there was an ordinance stating the distance of a dumpster for a business to a residence? Cross discussion. Mr. Ryden stated he does not know specifically, but refuse has to comply with the regulations of a business zone. Amy Melvin, 18 Beech Drive, thanked the council for the pickle ball court and fencing at Watnong Park. Ms. Melvin wanted to discuss an incident that happened when she took her daughter and friend to play. The courts were occupied and she instructed the girls to stand and wait their turn. While they were waiting a few young men showed up and went in front of them to play next. When approached and asked why they jumped the line they stated they were next in line, but left and came back. Ms. Melvin was uncomfortable and is suggesting signage of rules and a possible paddle holder showing who is next in line for the courts. Mayor Karr stated if you do not feel comfortable in a situation you should call 9-1-1 immediately. Mayor Karr thanked Ms. Melvin for the information and stated the Recreation Chair, Gerry Sittman, is here this evening and information can be given to him directly. Also, DPW has ordered signs which will be hung as soon as they are received. Councilmember Goddard stated she also works with Recreation and can work on this matter along with Mr. Sittman. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES AND/OR DEPARTMENT HEADS Finance Councilmember Wagner reported the Clerk’s office is working on 6-month parking permits, election preparations and OPRA’s. The CFO filed Chapter 159 to amend the budget adding funds received from the Storm water assistance grant. Public Safety Councilmember Cortese reported on two successful “Coffee With a Cop” events, and that another officer was certified for bike patrol. He also reported some officers are under license renewal reviews and reported that the fire department completed pump tests. Police Department’s Report Chief Koroski reported on August calls and that nine officers are under 3-year license renewals after completing the required training. Chief Koroski reported the Deer Cull has started and will run through February 2025. Public Works Councilmember Bruhn reported on a Beatification meeting. He reported the DPW removed trees and bushes at the Freight Station, painted lines and performed vehicle maintenance. Engineer’s Report Mr. Ryden reported shrubs and grass were trimmed at Kohl’s. Public Buildings & Grounds Councilmember Goddard reported Ellie Falco reached out to discuss a compost initiative which will coincide with Wellness Day where composting equipment and educational material will be available. Ms. Goddard reported on the first Business Roundtable hosted by Downtown Morris Plains where best practices, promotions, social media and working together was discussed with business owners. The 2nd Annual Pumpkin Illumination will be held on October 25th at the Merchant Block and the bike rack contest winner will be announced. Ms. Goddard reported there are four weeks left for the Farmers Market which will be more festive and have additional new vendors. Ms. Goddard reported on the new mural at Simon’s Park which the soccer association completed and was sponsored by the Rotary Club, Nick’s Janitorial and Sherwin Williams. Public Health, Sanitation & Sewers Councilmember Verga reported Wellness Day is October 12th, flu vaccines will be given and Narcan training will be available. Ms. Verga reported on the Mental Health Symposium and discussed the various speakers and the Morris County Exchange where many resources were available and will be posted to our website. Ms. Verga reported on a Municipal Alliance meeting and an upcoming assembly at Morristown High School. Stage Fun performance will be November 15th and LEAD is up and running for 2nd, 5th and 8th grade. Ms. Verga reported on Teen Center registration and the kickoff event; a Girl Scout Troop would like to adopt the Teen Center House as a silver award which would include painting, cleaning, etc. Ordinance & Public Utilities Councilmember Kelly reported on the tree ordinance which is a work in progress and that she will be attending the October 7th Shade Tree meeting to answer questions regarding the draft ordinance. She also reported the police department notes street light outages and the list is forwarded to JCP&L who then replaces the bulbs. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES Councilmember Kelly introduced the following ordinance and read the same by title and moved that it be passed on First Reading. ORDINANCE NO. _7_-2024 AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF MORRIS PLAINS, COUNTY OF MORRIS, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AMENDING CHAPTER 22, ESTABLISHING NEW ARTICLE 17, TO BE ENTITLED “DON’T BLOCK THE BOX” Councilmember Wagner seconded the motion. Yeas: Councilmembers Verga, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Kelly, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None Thereupon, Councilmember Kelly offered the following resolution: WHEREAS, the above ordinance was introduced and read by title at this meeting on September 19, 2024 and passed on First Reading. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that at a meeting to be held on October 3, 2024 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 Bruhn seconded the resolution. Voice vote. Yeas: Councilmembers Verga, Bruhn, Cortese, Goddard, Kelly, Wagner Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING None. RESOLUTIONS None. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS None. VOUCHERS Councilmember Wagner moved the vouchers for September 19, 2024 in the amount of $3,359,088.60, seconded by Councilmember Bruhn. Yeas: Councilmembers Verga, Bruhn, Cortese, Kelly Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: Councilmembers Goddard and Wagner ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Bruhn moved that the Regular Meeting be adjourned at 9:23 P.M. Seconded by Councilmember Cortese. Voice Vote. All in favor. _____________________________ Jason C. Karr, Mayor _________________________________ Rosanne Denman, Borough Clerk