Mayor & Council

MINUTES Mayor and Council Regular Meeting March 28, 2022 7:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER – A Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge was held in the Council Chambers of the River Edge Borough Hall at 705 Kinderkamack Road, River Edge, NJ 07661. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Thomas Papaleo. SILENT PRAYER – FLAG SALUTE Mayor Papaleo asked for a moment of silence for those who are struggling for their freedom and rights around the world especially for those in Ukraine. Councilwoman Busteed led those present in a salute to the flag. STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE - Mayor Papaleo read the Statement of Compliance into the record as follows: Statement of Compliance with Open Public Meeting Act: This meeting complies with the Open Public Meeting Act by notification on January 7th this location, date and time to the Town News and the Record and by posting of same on the municipal bulletin board and Borough website and filing a notice of the same with the Municipal Clerk. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Councilwoman Busteed, Councilman Chinigo, Council President Kaufman, Councilwoman Kinsella, Councilwoman Malellari and Mayor Papaleo. ABSENT: Councilwoman Montisano-Koen ALSO PRESENT: Borough Administrator Lissette Aportela Borough Attorney Thomas Sarlo, Esq. Mayor Papaleo announced that a discussion item will be added under New Business and heard after Public Comment, explaining that Tom Behrens, Borough Planning Consultant, is present this evening to discuss an idea with the governing body. #22-117 Approve the Appointment of a Volunteer Police Auxiliary Officer Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, that Resolution #22-117 be approved. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Mayor Papaleo advised that Derrick Wade was also one of his students in Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Teaneck. He then administered the Oath of Office to Auxiliary Officer Wade. Auxiliary Officer Wade thanked everyone for this opportunity. He also expressed gratitude to the Borough of River Edge and the River Edge Police Department for accepting him and allowing him to serve the community. #22-117 Approve the Appointment of a Volunteer Police Auxiliary Officer  BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge that Derrick Wade be and he is hereby appointed as a Volunteer Police Auxiliary Officer in the River Edge Police Department effective March 28, 2022. ******** PROCLAMATIONS & AWARDS Proclamation Declaring April 3 – 9, 2022 as National Library Week PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, today’s libraries are not just about books but what they do for and with people; WHEREAS, libraries of all types are at the heart of cities, towns, schools and campuses; WHEREAS, libraries have long served as trusted and treasured institutions where people of all backgrounds can be together and connect; WHEREAS, libraries and librarians build strong communities through transformative services, programs and expertise; WHEREAS, libraries, which promote the free exchange of information and ideas for all, are cornerstones of democracy; WHEREAS, libraries promote civic engagement by keeping people informed and aware of community events and issues; WHEREAS, librarians and library workers partner with other civic organizations to make sure their community’s needs are being met; WHEREAS, libraries and librarians empower their communities to make informed decisions by providing free access to information; WHEREAS, libraries are a resource for all members of the community regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or socio-economic status, by offering services and educational resources that transform lives and strengthen communities; WHEREAS, libraries, librarians, library workers and supporters across America are celebrating National Library Week. NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Thomas Papaleo, Mayor of the Borough of River Edge hereby proclaim National Library Week, April 3 – 9, 2022. I encourage all residents to visit the library this week and explore what’s new at your library and engage with your librarian. Because of you, Libraries Transform. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – On motion by Councilwoman Busteed, seconded by Council President Kaufman, and all members present voting in favor, that the minutes of the Mayor and Council Special Meeting of March 2, 2022 and Mayor and Council Regular Meeting and Closed Session Meeting of March 14, 2022 are hereby approved. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ANY ITEM ON THIS AGENDA – On motion by Councilman Chinigo, seconded by Councilwoman Malellari, and all present voting in favor, to open for public comments on any item on the agenda. No one came forward. On a motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, seconded by Councilwoman Busteed, and all present voting in favor, to close public comments on any item on the agenda. NEW BUSINESS Block 414 Lot 1.01 Tom Behrens, Borough Planning Consultant, explained that Block 414 Lot 1.01 is currently for sale and suggested the possibility of the Borough acquiring this property for a public purpose. As there are annual allocations available for acquisition of properties for open space, flood prone areas, and historic preservation, he noted that a Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund grant can be sought for this purpose. He explained that, if awarded, it is possible to receive 70% to 80% of the acquisition fee and advised that there are other programs that could possibly supplement the shortfall. He detailed what would be required to submit a grant application and acknowledged that there is a tight timeframe to submit an application this year. He advised that, although it is on the market for $1.8 million, the County would only pay fair market price which would be based on two appraisals. Mayor Papaleo expressed that, although he is neither in support nor opposed to this idea, he is opposed, in general, to inactive parks in suburbia. He noted that there is a pocket park on Kinderkamack Road between two commercial properties to which no one has access. He explained that it may be possible to sell this piece of property to a commercial developer in exchange for Block 414 Lot 1.01. He noted that the governing body has a lot of time to digest this idea and Mr. Behrens will continue to do his due diligence in this regard. APPOINTMENTS & PERSONNEL CHANGES – On motion by Councilman Chinigo, seconded by Councilwoman Busteed, to approve the following appointments and personnel changes: Approve the salary change of Deborah Aiello, Police Department Secretary from an annual salary of $53,510.97 to $55,000.00 plus longevity, retroactive to January 1, 2022. Approve the liaison change for the Building Department from Councilwoman Montisano- Koen to Councilwoman Kaufman effective March 28, 2022. Approve the retirement of Leonard Herman, Plumbing Inspector effective March 28, 2022. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent FIRST READING – ORDINANCES – Ordinances #22-4 – #22-7 Mayor Papaleo asked that the Borough Administrator provide a synopsis of Ordinance #22-4 through Ordinance #22-7. Borough Administrator Aportela advised that Ordinance #22-4 amends the 2022 Salary Ordinance for non-represented employees to adjust the salary range for the position of Police Chief Secretary. Ordinance #22-5 establishes a Cap Bank which provides the ability to exceed the municipal cap by 1%. She noted that this bank is a reserve to have on hand should there be an emergency. Ordinance #22-6 and #22-7 are both bond ordinances which relate to the Capital Budget. Borough Administrator Aportela explained that Ordinance #22-6 pertains to the improvements to Bogert Road Section 6, for which a grant in the amount of $221,000 was received from the NJ DOT. Ordinance #22-7 encompasses the remainder of the Capital Budget which involves technology equipment, vehicles, and park and infrastructure improvements. Mayor Papaleo noted that Ordinance #22-5 is adopted every year and has no impact on taxes unless it is utilized for an emergency. Chris Battaglia, CFO, explained that this ordinance allows a municipality to increase to the maximum cap which is 3.5%, and if it is not utilized, it gets banked for use in a future year. He commented that he always recommends the adoption of this ordinance. As Bogert Road Section 6 involves Cherry Hill School, Councilwoman Busteed requested confirmation that there would be coordination to prevent interference with the school year or enrichment program this summer. Borough Administrator Aportela advised that, as the Borough has funding and approval for Section 5, the two sections are being combined to attract the most responsive, responsible bidder. Section 6 is still in the design phase which will require NJ DOT approval. She expressed hope that this project will take place over the summer. Ordinance #22-4 Mayor Papaleo read the title of Ordinance #22-4 into the record: Ordinance #22-4 An Ordinance to Fix the Salary, Wage and Compensation of the Officers and Employees of the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, and State of New Jersey for the Year 2022 On motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, seconded by Councilwoman Malellari, to introduce and pass on first reading Ordinance #22-4. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE ORDINANCE #22-4 AN ORDINANCE TO FIX THE SALARY, WAGE AND COMPENSATION OF THE OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2022 BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, as follows: Section 1: The title and compensation for the full-time position of the Borough of River Edge for the year 2022 shall be amended as follows: 2022 POLICE Secretary $40,000 - $65,000 Section 2. Any and all other ordinances or parts thereof in conflict or inconsistent with any of the terms hereof are hereby repealed to such extent as they are so in conflict or inconsistent.  Section 3. In case any article, section or provision of this ordinance shall be held invalid in any court of competent jurisdiction, the same shall not affect any other article, section or provision of this ordinance except insofar as the article, section or provision so declared invalid shall be inseparable from the remainder or any portion thereof. Section 4. This Ordinance shall be retroactive to January 1, 2022, upon final passage and publication as required by law. INTRODUCED: ADOPTED: ___________________________________ Thomas Papaleo, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________________ Anne Dodd, Borough Clerk Ordinance #22-5 Mayor Papaleo read the title of Ordinance #22-5 into the record: Ordinance #22-5 Calendar Year 2022 Ordinance to Exceed the Municipal Budget Appropriation Limits and to Establish a Cap Bank (NJSA 40A:4-45.14) On motion by Councilman Chinigo, seconded by Council President Kaufman, to introduce and pass on first reading Ordinance #22-5. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent ORDINANCE 22-5 BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE CALENDAR YEAR 2022 ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK (N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14) WHEREAS, the Local Government Cap Law, N.J.S. 40A: 4-45.1 et seq., provides that in the preparation of its annual budget, a municipality shall limit any increase in said budget to 2.50% unless authorized by ordinance to increase it to 3.5% over the previous year=s final appropriations, subject to certain exceptions; and, WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.16a provides that a municipality may, when authorized by ordinance, appropriate the difference between the amount of its actual final appropriation and the 3.5% percentage rate as an exception to its final appropriations in either of the next two succeeding years; and, WHEREAS, the Borough Council of the Borough of River Edge in the County of Bergen finds it advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2022 budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year=s final appropriations, in the interest of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the citizens; and, WHEREAS, the Borough Council hereby determines that a 1.00% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $126,662.93 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and, WHEREAS the Borough Council hereby determines that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, a majority of the full authorized membership of this governing body affirmatively concurring, that, in the CY 2022 budget year, the final appropriations of the Borough of River Edge shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14, be increased by 3.50%, amounting to $443,320.27, and that the CY 2022 municipal budget for the Borough of River Edge be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and, BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that any that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years; and, BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance as introduced be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services within 5 days of introduction; and, BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance upon adoption, with the recorded vote included thereon, be filed with said Director within 5 days after such adoption. Ordinance #22-6 Mayor Papaleo read the title of Ordinance #22-6 into the record: Ordinance #22-6 Bond Ordinance to Authorize the Improvement of Bogert Road (Section 6) in, by and for the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, to appropriate the sum of $321,000 to Pay the Cost Thereof, to Appropriate a State Grant, to Authorize the Issuance of bonds to Finance Such Appropriation and to Provide for the Issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes in Anticipation of the Issuance of Such Bonds On motion by Councilwoman Busteed, seconded by Councilwoman Kinsella, to introduce and pass on first reading Ordinance #22-6. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE ORDINANCE #22-6 BOND ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE IMPROVEMENT OF BOGERT ROAD (SECTION 6) IN, BY AND FOR THE BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, TO APPROPRIATE THE SUM OF $321,000 TO PAY THE COST THEREOF, TO APPROPRIATE A STATE GRANT, TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS TO FINANCE SUCH APPROPRIATION AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES IN ANTICIPATION OF THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS. BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough Council of the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, as follows: Section 1. The Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey (the "Borough"), is hereby authorized to improve Bogert Road (Section 6) in, by and for the Borough. Said improvement shall include road resurfacing, sidewalk, curb and driveway apron improvements, where necessary, and all work, materials and appurtenances necessary and suitable therefor, and shall be undertaken in accordance with plans and specifications prepared or to be prepared by the Borough Engineer and hereby approved and incorporated herein by this reference thereto. Such plans and specifications are on file or shall be placed on file with the Borough Clerk and made available for public inspection during regular business hours. It is hereby determined and stated that said road being improved is of "Class B" or equivalent construction as defined in Section 22 of the Local Bond Law (Chapter 2 of Title 40A of the New Jersey Statutes Annotated, as amended; the "Local Bond Law"). Section 2. The sum of $321,000 is hereby appropriated to the payment of the cost of making the improvement described in Section 1 of this ordinance (hereinafter referred to as "purpose"). Said appropriation shall be met from the proceeds of the sale of the bonds authorized and the State grant appropriated by this ordinance. No down payment is required pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:2-11(c) because this ordinance involves a project to be funded by a State grant. Said improvement shall be made as a general improvement and no part of the cost thereof shall be assessed against property specially benefited. Section 3. It is hereby determined and stated that (1) said purpose is not a current expense of the Borough, and (2) it is necessary to finance said purpose by the issuance of obligations of the Borough pursuant to the Local Bond Law, and (3) the estimated cost of said purpose is $321,000, and (4) $221,000 of said sum is to be provided by the State grant hereinafter appropriated, and (5) the estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes necessary to be issued for said purpose is $100,000, and (6) the cost of said purpose, as hereinbefore stated, includes the aggregate amount of $100,000, which is estimated to be necessary to finance the cost of said purpose, including architect's fees, accounting, engineering and inspection costs, legal expenses and other expenses, including interest on such obligations to the extent permitted by Section 20 of the Local Bond Law. Section 4. It is hereby determined and stated that the sum of $221,000 received or to be received as a grant from the New Jersey Department of Transportation is hereby appropriated to the payment of the cost of such purpose. Section 5. To finance said purpose, bonds of the Borough of an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $100,000 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to the Local Bond Law. Said bonds shall bear interest at a rate per annum as may be hereafter determined within the limitations prescribed by law. All matters with respect to said bonds not determined by this ordinance shall be determined by resolutions to be hereafter adopted. Section 6. To finance said purpose, bond anticipation notes of the Borough of an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $100,000 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to the Local Bond Law in anticipation of the issuance of said bonds. In the event that bonds are issued pursuant to this ordinance, the aggregate amount of notes hereby authorized to be issued shall be reduced by an amount equal to the principal amount of the bonds so issued. If the aggregate amount of outstanding bonds and notes issued pursuant to this ordinance shall at any time exceed the sum first mentioned in this section, the moneys raised by the issuance of said bonds shall, to not less than the amount of such excess, be applied to the payment of such notes then outstanding. Section 7. Each bond anticipation note issued pursuant to this ordinance shall be dated on or about the date of its issuance, shall be payable not more than one year from its date, shall bear interest at a rate per annum as may be hereafter determined within the limitations prescribed by law and may be renewed from time to time pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by the Local Bond Law. Each of said bond anticipation notes shall be signed by the Mayor and by a financial officer and shall be under the seal of the Borough and attested by the Borough Clerk or Deputy Borough Clerk. Said officers are hereby authorized to execute said notes and to issue said notes in such form as they may adopt in conformity with law. The power to determine any matters with respect to said notes not determined by this ordinance, and also the power to sell said notes, is hereby delegated to the Chief Financial Officer who is hereby authorized to sell said notes either at one time or from time to time in the manner provided by law. Section 8. It is hereby determined and declared that the period of usefulness of said purpose, according to its reasonable life, is a period of ten years computed from the date of said bonds. Section 9. It is hereby determined and stated that the Supplemental Debt Statement required by the Local Bond Law has been duly made and filed in the office of the Borough Clerk of the Borough, and that such statement so filed shows that the gross debt of the Borough, as defined in Section 43 of the Local Bond Law, is increased by this ordinance by $100,000 and that the issuance of the bonds and notes authorized by this ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by the Local Bond Law. Section 10. Any funds received from private parties, the County of Bergen, the State of New Jersey or any of their agencies or any funds received from the United States of America or any of its agencies in aid of said purpose (other than the State grant hereinbefore appropriated which shall be applied to the cost of such purpose, but shall not be applied to the payment of outstanding bond anticipation notes and the reduction of the amount of bonds authorized), shall be applied to the payment of the cost of said purpose, or, if bond anticipation notes have been issued, to the payment of the bond anticipation notes, and the amount of bonds authorized for said purpose shall be reduced accordingly. Section 11. The capital budget is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency therewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing full detail of the amended capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, is on file with the Borough Clerk and is available for public inspection. Section 12. The Borough intends to issue bonds or notes to finance the cost of the improvement described in Section 1 of this bond ordinance. If the Borough incurs such costs prior to the issuance of such bonds or notes, the Borough hereby states its reasonable expectation to reimburse itself for such expenditures with the proceeds of such bonds or notes in the maximum principal amount of bonds or notes authorized by this bond ordinance. Section 13. The full faith and credit of the Borough are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on the obligations authorized by this ordinance. Said obligations shall be direct, unlimited and general obligations of the Borough, and the Borough shall levy ad valorem taxes upon all the taxable real property within the Borough for the payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds and notes, without limitation as to rate or amount. Section 14. This ordinance shall take effect twenty days after the first publication thereof after final passage. Ordinance #22-7 Mayor Papaleo read the title of Ordinance #22-7 into the record: Ordinance #22-7 Bond Ordinance to Authorize the Making of Various Public Improvements and the Acquisition of New Additional or Replacement Equipment and Machinery, New Information Technology Equipment, New Communication and Signal Systems Equipment, New Additional Furnishings and New Automotive Vehicles, Including Original Apparatus and Equipment, in by and for the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, to Appropriate the Sum of $5,490,468 to Pay the Cost Thereof, to Appropriate Various Grants, to Make a Down Payment, to Authorize the Issuance of Bonds to Finance Such Appropriation and to Provide for the Issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes in Anticipation of the Issuance of Such Bonds On motion by Councilwoman Malellari, seconded by Councilman Chinigo, to introduce and pass on first reading Ordinance #22-7. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE ORDINANCE #22-7 BOND ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAKING OF VARIOUS PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AND THE ACQUISITION OF NEW ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY, NEW INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT, NEW COMMUNICATION AND SIGNAL SYSTEMS EQUIPMENT, NEW ADDITIONAL FURNISHINGS AND NEW AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLES, INCLUDING ORIGINAL APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT, IN, BY AND FOR THE BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, TO APPROPRIATE THE SUM OF $5,490,468 TO PAY THE COST THEREOF, TO APPROPRIATE VARIOUS GRANTS, TO MAKE A DOWN PAYMENT, TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS TO FINANCE SUCH APPROPRIATION AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES IN ANTICIPATION OF THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS. BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough Council of the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, as follows: Section 1. The Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey (the "Borough") is hereby authorized to make various public improvements and to acquire new additional or replacement equipment and machinery, new information technology equipment, new communication and signal systems equipment, new additional furnishings and new automotive vehicles, including original apparatus and equipment, in, by and for said Borough, as more particularly described in Section 4 hereof. Said improvements shall include all work, materials and appurtenances necessary and suitable therefor. Section 2. There is hereby appropriated to the payment of the cost of making the improvements described in Sections l and 4 hereof (hereinafter referred to as "purposes"), the respective amounts of money hereinafter stated as the appropriation for said respective purposes. Said appropriation shall be met from the proceeds of the sale of the bonds authorized, and the down payment (including from funds in the Borough of River Edge Open Space Trust Fund (the "Borough Open Space Fund")) and the various grants appropriated, by this ordinance. Said improvements shall be made as general improvements and no part of the cost thereof shall be assessed against property specially benefited. Section 3. It is hereby determined and stated that the making of such improvements is not a current expense of said Borough. Section 4. The several purposes hereby authorized for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued are set forth in the following "Schedule of Improvements, Purposes and Amounts" which schedule also shows (l) the amount of the appropriation and the estimated cost of each such purpose, and (2) the amount of each sum which is to be provided by the grants hereinafter appropriated, and (3) the amount of each sum which is to be provided by the down payment hereinafter appropriated to finance such purposes, and (4) the estimated maximum amount of bonds and notes to be issued for each such purpose, and (5) the period of usefulness of each such purpose, according to its reasonable life, computed from the date of said bonds: SCHEDULE OF IMPROVEMENTS, PURPOSES AND AMOUNTS A. Acquisition of new additional or replacement equipment and machinery, new information technology equipment, new additional furnishings and new automotive vehicles, including original apparatus and equipment, for the use of various Borough departments, offices and agencies, including, but not limited to, the following: Police Department SUVs ballistic vests in-vehicle computer equipment firearms Fire Department turnout gear fire hose thermal imaging camera self-contained breathing apparatus face piece covers Administration computer equipment Department of Public Works ("DPW") roll-off truck with container, plow and spreader utility truck Public Library office furniture and partitions Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 677,300 Down Payment Appropriated $ 32,800 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 644,500 Period of Usefulness 5 years  B. Acquisition of new information technology equipment consisting of computer servers for the use of the Police Department and the Administration. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 36,226 Down Payment Appropriated $ 1,800 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 34,426 Period of Usefulness 7 years C. Acquisition of new communication and signal systems equipment for the use of various Borough departments, offices and agencies, including, but not limited to, the following: Fire Department pagers mobile radios DPW radio equipment Office of Emergency Management ("OEM") portable radios Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 204,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 9,900 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 194,100 Period of Usefulness 10 years D. Undertaking of (i) various traffic and pedestrian safety improvements and equipment acquisitions and (ii) sidewalk and ADA ramp improvements at various locations. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 208,500 Down Payment Appropriated $ 10,100 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 198,400 Period of Usefulness 10 years E. Undertaking of the following: (i) the Borough Documents Management Project and (ii) technology upgrades at various public buildings. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 60,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 3,000 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 57,000 Period of Usefulness 5 years F. Undertaking of the following public improvements: (i) installation of a lightning detection system for various recreation facilities, (ii) the Tree Planting Program and (iii) replacement of the outdoor book return at the Public Library. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 39,600 Down Payment Appropriated $ 2,000 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 37,600 Period of Usefulness 15 years G. Undertaking of various improvements to Memorial Park. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 240,620 County Grant Appropriated $ 87,165 Down Payment Appropriated $ 87,165 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 66,290 Period of Usefulness 15 years  H. Undertaking of (i) the design phase for the resurfacing of Bogert Road (Section 7), (ii) resurfacing of the parking lots at Fire Company Nos. 1 and 2 and (iii) the 2022 Road Resurfacing and Improvement Program (including curbing and sidewalk improvements, where necessary) in, by and for the Borough, as set forth on a list prepared by the Borough Engineer and approved by the Borough Council and directed to be placed on file in the Office of the Borough Clerk and made available for public inspection during normal business hours. It is hereby determined and stated that (i) the Borough Council may, by resolution, amend the list referred to in clause (iii) of the preceding sentence from time to time within the appropriation made hereby and (ii) such roads and parking lots being improved are of "Class B" or equivalent construction as defined in Section 22 of the Local Bond Law (Chapter 2 of Title 40A of the New Jersey Statutes Annotated, as amended; the "Local Bond Law"). Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 748,292 Down Payment Appropriated $ 35,900 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 712,392 Period of Usefulness 10 years I. Undertaking of drainage improvements in the vicinity of Voorhis Avenue. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $1,353,530 Down Payment Appropriated $ 64,500 Bonds and Notes Authorized $1,289,030 Period of Usefulness 40 years J. Improvement of Reservoir Avenue, including roadway resurfacing, ADA curb and sidewalk improvements and various traffic and pedestrian safety improvements. It is hereby determined and stated that such road being improved is of "Class B" or equivalent construction as defined in Section 22 of the Local Bond Law. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 147,400 Federal Grant Appropriated $ 75,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 7,100 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 65,300 Period of Usefulness 10 years K. Replacement of windows at Fire Company No. 1. It is hereby determined and stated that said public building being improved is of "Class B" or equivalent construction as defined in Section 22 of the Local Bond Law. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 60,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 2,900 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 57,100 Period of Usefulness 15 years L. Improvements to public buildings and property. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 75,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 3,600 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 71,400 Period of Usefulness 15 years M. Undertaking of renovations to the Municipal Building and replacement of the DPW Garage and Salt Shed. It is hereby determined and stated that such public buildings being improved or constructed are or will be of "Class B" or equivalent construction as defined in Section 22 of the Local Bond Law. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $1,475,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 70,300 Bonds and Notes Authorized $1,404,700  Period of Usefulness 15 years N. Undertaking of stormwater drainage and sanitary sewer improvements at various locations in the Borough. Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 165,000 Down Payment Appropriated $ 7,900 Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 157,100 Period of Usefulness 40 years ------------------------------------------------------- Aggregate Appropriation and Estimated Cost $5,490,468 Aggregate Grants Appropriated $ 162,165 Aggregate Down Payment Appropriated $ 338,965 Aggregate Amount of Bonds and Notes Authorized $4,989,338 Section 5. The cost of such purposes, as hereinbefore stated, includes the aggregate amount of $1,100,000 which is estimated to be necessary to finance the cost of such purposes, including architect's fees, accounting, engineering and inspection costs, legal expenses and other expenses, including interest on such obligations to the extent permitted by Section 20 of the Local Bond Law. Section 6. The sum of $87,165 received or to be received as a grant from the County of Bergen Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund is hereby appropriated to the payment of the cost of the improvements to Memorial Park authorized in Section 4.G hereof. Section 7. The sum of $75,000 received or to be received as a grant from the Bergen County Community Development Program, pursuant to the Federal Housing and Community Development Act, is hereby appropriated to the payment of the cost of the improvement of Reservoir Avenue authorized in Section 4.J hereof. Section 8. It is hereby determined and stated that the aggregate sum of $338,965 (consisting of (A) $87,165 in the Borough Open Space Fund to be used for Purpose 4.G above and (B) $251,800 appropriated for down payments on capital improvements or for the capital improvement fund in budgets heretofore adopted for the Borough to be used for the purposes, except purpose 4.G, in Section 4 above) is now available to serve as the down payment on said purposes. The sum of $338,965 is hereby appropriated from such moneys to the payment of the cost of said purposes. Section 9. To finance said purposes, bonds of said Borough of an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $4,989,338 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to the Local Bond Law. Said bonds shall bear interest at a rate per annum as may be hereafter determined within the limitations prescribed by law. All matters with respect to said bonds not determined by this ordinance shall be determined by resolutions to be hereafter adopted. Section 10. To finance said purposes, bond anticipation notes of said Borough of an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $4,989,338 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to the Local Bond Law in anticipation of the issuance of said bonds. In the event that bonds are issued pursuant to this ordinance, the aggregate amount of notes hereby authorized to be issued shall be reduced by an amount equal to the principal amount of the bonds so issued. If the aggregate amount of outstanding bonds and notes issued pursuant to this ordinance shall at any time exceed the sum first mentioned in this section, the moneys raised by the issuance of said bonds shall, to not less than the amount of such excess, be applied to the payment of such notes then outstanding. Section 11. Each bond anticipation note issued pursuant to this ordinance shall be dated on or about the date of its issuance and shall be payable not more than one year from its date, shall bear interest at a rate per annum as may be hereafter determined within the limitations prescribed by law and may be renewed from time to time pursuant to and within limitations prescribed by the Local Bond Law. Each of said bond anticipation notes shall be signed by the Mayor and by a financial officer and shall be under the seal of said Borough and attested by the Borough Clerk or Deputy Borough Clerk. Said officers are hereby authorized to execute said notes in such form as they may adopt in conformity with law. The power to determine any matters with respect to said notes not determined by this ordinance and also the power to sell said notes, is hereby delegated to the Chief Financial Officer who is hereby authorized to sell said notes either at one time or from time to time in the manner provided by law. Section 12. It is hereby determined and declared that the average period of usefulness of said purposes, according to their reasonable lives, taking into consideration the respective amounts of bonds or notes authorized for said purposes, is a period of 19.61 years computed from the date of said bonds. Section 13. It is hereby determined and stated that the Supplemental Debt Statement required by the Local Bond Law has been duly made and filed in the office of the Borough Clerk of said Borough, and that such statement so filed shows that the gross debt of said Borough, as defined in Section 43 of the Local Bond Law, is increased by this ordinance by $4,989,338 and that the issuance of the bonds and notes authorized by this ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law. Section 14. Any funds received from private parties, the County of Bergen, the State of New Jersey or any of their agencies or any funds received from the United States of America or any of its agencies in aid of such purposes (other than the various grants hereinbefore appropriated which shall be applied to the cost of such purposes, but shall not be applied to the payment of outstanding bond anticipation notes and the reduction of the amount of bonds authorized), shall be applied to the payment of the cost of such purposes, or, if bond anticipation notes have been issued, to the payment of the bond anticipation notes, and the amount of bonds authorized for such purposes shall be reduced accordingly. Section 15. The capital budget is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency therewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing full detail of the amended capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, is on file with the Borough Clerk and is available for public inspection. Section 16. The Borough intends to issue the bonds or notes to finance the cost of the improvements described in Sections 1 and 4 of this bond ordinance. If the Borough incurs such costs prior to the issuance of the bonds or notes, the Borough hereby states its reasonable expectation to reimburse itself for such expenditures with the proceeds of such bonds or notes in the maximum principal amount of bonds or notes authorized by this bond ordinance. Section 17. The full faith and credit of the Borough are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and the interest on the obligations authorized by this ordinance. Said obligations shall be direct, unlimited and general obligations of the Borough, and the Borough shall levy ad valorem taxes upon all the taxable real property within the Borough for the payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds and notes, without limitation as to rate or amount. Section 18. This ordinance shall take effect twenty days after the first publication thereof after final passage. ______________________________________ Mayor Thomas Papaleo Attest: _____________________________ Anne Dodd, Borough Clerk SECOND READING & HEARING ON ORDINANCES Ordinance #22-2 An Ordinance Amending the Code of the Borough of River Edge Authorizing and Encouraging Electric Vehicle Supply/Service Equipment (EVSE) & Make Ready Parking Spaces Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Busteed, to remove Ordinance #22-2 from the table. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Borough Administrator Aportela explained that the State adopted legislation requiring electric vehicle parking spaces and chargers to be installed in new developments. She advised that a model ordinance was provided and there was only discretion with the sections that pertain to signage and parking width. She noted that this ordinance was tabled to allow the Land Use Board to conduct its review and provide comment which took place on March 9th. Borough Attorney Sarlo recommended that the amendments proposed by the Land Use Board be incorporated and that the ordinance be reintroduced. There was no motion to adopt Ordinance #22-2. Mayor Papaleo stated that a new ordinance which incorporates the amendments recommended by the Land Use Board will be considered at the next meeting. RESOLUTIONS - By Consent As it has been past practice to vote on the resolution to introduce the budget separately, Resolution #22- 118 was pulled for a separate vote. #22-118 Introduce 2022 Budget Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilman Chingo, that Resolution #22-118 be approved. CFO Battaglia explained that, once introduced, the budget will be advertised and made available for public inspection. As there must be at least 28 days between introduction and adoption, he advised that the public hearing and adoption will take place at the April 25th Mayor and Council Regular Meeting. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent #22-118 Introduce 2022 Budget BE IT RESOLVED that the following statements of revenue and appropriations shall constitute the Municipal Budget for the year 2022. The Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge does hereby approve the following as the Budget for the year 2022: Revenues: Surplus Anticipated $1,212,500.00 Miscellaneous Revenues 2,311,768.12 Receipts from Delinquent Taxes 275,000.00 Local Tax for Municipal/Library Purposes 14,650,586.30 Total: $ 18,449,854.42 Appropriations: Appropriations within “CAPS” $ 13,428,137.00 Appropriations excluded from “CAPS” 4,451,717.42 Reserve for Uncollected Taxes 570,000.00 Total: $ 18,449,854.42 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that said Budget be published by summary in the Record on April 1, 2022, and in compliance with N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-8 (1a), a copy of the full approved budget will be made available for public inspection at the Office of the River Edge Borough Clerk located in the River Edge Municipal Building, 705 Kinderkamack Road and Borough website at www.riveredgenj.org Notice is hereby given that the budget and tax resolution was approved by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen on March 28, 2022. A hearing on the Budget and Tax Resolution will be held at the Municipal Building, on April 25, 2022 at 7:00 o'clock P.M. at which time and place objections to the Budget and Tax Resolution for the year 2022 may be presented by taxpayers or other interested persons. ******** a. #22-118 Introduce 2022 Budget Pulled for a separate vote b. #22-119 Approve Change Order #1 – Re-Roofing of Fire Company No. 1 Project c. #22-120 Authorize Issuance of Purchase Order – PK Environmental d. #22-121 Resolution to Rescind Resolution #22-111 – Hire of a Full-time Laborer e. #22-122 Approve the Change in Employment Status of the Office Clerk/Senior Bus Coordinator in the Department of Public Works f. #22-123 Amend Professional Services Contract – Borough Attorney g. #22-124 Authorizing Increase in Deferred School Taxes for Local School and Regional High School Taxes h. #22-125 Approve the Hire of a Part-time Dispatcher in the Police Department i. #22-126 Approve the Hire of a Part-time Dispatcher in the Police Department Motion by Councilwoman Busteed, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, that the Consent Agenda be approved as amended. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent #22-119 Approve Change Order #1 – Re-Roofing of Fire Company No. 1 Project WHEREAS, via resolution #R21-255, adopted September 13, 2021, the Mayor and Council authorized the issuance of a purchase order for the Re-Roofing of Fire Company No. 1 Project to Frank Cyrwus, Inc in the amount of $49,711.00; and WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 5:34-4.7 permits change orders for construction, reconstruction and major repair contracts; and WHEREAS, there is a need to consider Change Order No 1 due to the need to change the product materials and reimburse the Borough for a computer that had been damaged which resulted in a decrease of $7,389.00; and WHEREAS, the total amount of change orders approved to date including this change order do not exceed the originally awarded contract price by more than 20 percent; and WHEREAS, Change Order No. 1 had been reviewed and approved by the Architect contracted to supervise the project. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge that it does hereby authorize Change Order No. 1, a copy of which is attached hereto. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Administrator is hereby authorized to execute Change Order #1. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Change Order shall decrease the final contract price from $49,711.00 to $42,322. ******** #22-120 Authorize Issuance of Purchase Order – PK Environmental WHEREAS, ball field upgrades at Kenneth B. George Park is a project in which the Borough will receive funding from the 2019 and 2020 Municipal Park Improvement Program of the Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund; and WHEREAS, in order to determine what improvements are permissible by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) due to the park’s proximity to the Hackensack River, the Borough of River Edge must submit an application for a Letter of Interpretation (LOI) and Flood Hazard Area (FHA) Verification; and WHEREAS, the issuance of a purchase order had been authorized to engage the services of an environmental consultant, Landsystems, LLC., to conduct the required testing and analysis to submit the required applications to the NJDEP via Resolution #21-227 on August 9, 2022, in the amount of $9445.00; and WHEREAS, Landsystems, LLC is unable to complete the project; and WHEREAS, the Borough Engineer has recommended engaging with PK Environmental to continue and complete the permitting process with the NJDEP; and WHEREAS, the scope of work proposed by PK Environmental, qualifies as a professional service under NJSA 40A:11-2(6) and NJSA 40A:11-5; and WHEREAS, the Borough Administrator, Lissette Aportela obtained quote prepared by PK Environmental, for environmental consulting services from the Borough Engineer on March 17, 2022, for $8500.00 for Wetland & SOW Analyses / Field Delineation, Wetlands Documentation / Environmental Report and NJDEP LOI & FHA Verification Application, and has recommended at a purchase order be issued to PK Environmental; and WHEREAS, Chief Financial Officer Chris Battaglia has advised that funding is available for this project. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge that the Borough Administrator, Lissette Aportela is authorized to issue a blanket purchase order for the preparation and submission of LOI and FHA Verification applications to the NJDEP for the ball field upgrades at Kenneth B. George Park to PK Environmental, having its principal office at PO Box 1066, 205 Main Street in Chatham, NJ 07928 based on the quote submitted on March 17, 2022 in the amount of $8500.00; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the purchase order issued to Landsystems, LLC, #21- 01383, be cancelled. ******** #22-121 Resolution to Rescind Resolution #22-111 – Hire of a Full-time Laborer WHEREAS, the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge approved the hire of Charles Romano as a full-time Laborer in the Department of Public Works via resolution #22-111 on March 14, 2022; and WHEREAS, Charles Romano has withdrawn his application. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that resolution #22-111 is hereby rescinded.  ******** #22-122 Approve the Change in Employment Status of the Office Clerk/Senior Bus Coordinator in the Department of Public Works BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge that the employment status of Miriam Fabisiak be changed from a part-time Office Clerk/Senior Bus Coordinator employee to full-time at an annual salary of $39,000.00 with a 6-month probationary period, effective March 29, 2022. ******** #22-123 Amend Professional Services Contract – Borough Attorney WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council awarded a one-year contract for the position of Borough Attorney through a non-competitive process pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.5; and WHEREAS, Resolution #R22-06 anticipated payments under said contract for 2022 in an amount not to exceed $25,000; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council has determined that an amendment is required to increase the not to exceed amount from $25,000 to $30,000 for aforesaid professional services retroactive to January 1, 2022; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available and said certification is attached to the original of this resolution. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge hereby approve the amendment of the professional services contract with Thomas A. Sarlo, P.C. upon adoption of this resolution; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in accordance with NJSA 40A:11-5 (1)(a)(i) the Borough Clerk shall publish a notice of amendment to a professional services contract stating the nature, duration, service and amount of the contract, and that the resolution and contract are on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Borough Clerk in the Friday, April 1, 2022, edition of the Record. ******** #22-124 Authorizing Increase in Deferred School Taxes for Local School and Regional High School Taxes WHEREAS, the Division of Local Government Services requires that the Governing Body of any municipality which has Deferred School Taxes must authorize any increase in the deferral of any additional amounts, and WHEREAS, the Governing Body has decided that an increase in Deferred School Taxes is in the best interest of the Borough at this time, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body that the following Deferred School Taxes be hereby increased for the year ended December 31, 2021 as follows: Deferred Local Deferred Regional School Taxes High School Taxes Amount Deferred 12/31/21 8,754,117.28 8,504,792.50 Amount Deferred 12/31/20 8,558,747.00 8,412,454.50 195,370.28 92,338.00 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Governing Body that a certified copy of this resolution be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services. ******** #22-125 Approve the Hire of a Part-time Dispatcher in the Police Department BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge that Katie Sullivan be and she is hereby hired as a part-time Dispatcher in the Police Department at an hourly rate of $16.81 with a six-month probationary period, effective March 29, 2022. ******** #22-126 Approve the Hire of a Part-time Dispatcher in the Police Department BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge that Carolina Flores-Henao be and she is hereby hired as a part-time Dispatcher in the Police Department at an hourly rate of $16.81 with a six-month probationary period, effective March 29, 2022. ******** #22-127 Payment of Bills Councilwoman Kaufman read resolution #22-127 into the record: #22-127 Payment of Bills At a Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, held on March 28, 2022. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge approve the following expenditures. CURRENT FUND $255,264.96 CAPITAL FUND $ 80,774.55 GRANT FUND $ 308.00 TRUST OTHER FUND $ 7,470.87 TRUST OTHER DEVELOPER’S ESCROW $ 2,725.83 SELF INSURANCE TRUST FUND $ 15,732.25 RECREATION TRUST FUND $ 813.85 Motion by Councilwoman Kaufman, second by Councilman Chinigo, that Resolution #22-127 be approved. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent ******** FOR DISCUSSION 2022 Bergen County Open Space Grant – Letter of Intent Borough Administrator Aportela advised that Carolyn Baldanza, Director of Recreation and Cultural Affairs, is present this evening to discuss a proposed project for the 2022 Bergen County Open Space grant application. Should there be consensus to proceed, she explained that Mayor Papaelo will sign a Letter of Intent which is to be submitted by April 8th. Ms. Baldanza provided an overview of the proposed project which included replacing the playground equipment and surface at Brookside Park to meet current safety codes and make it ADA compliant. Questions arose as to whether more equipment would be installed than what is currently there as well as whether the cost for equipment maintenance has been taken into consideration. Ms. Baldanza noted that the replacement equipment would expand the ages for use from 2 to 5 years old to 2 to 12 years old and utilize the same footprint as the old equipment. With respect to maintenance costs, she explained that the budget allows for general maintenance of equipment and commented that the equipment would be covered under warranty for a certain period of time. The consensus of the governing body was to authorize Mayor Papaleo to sign the Letter of Intent for submission to the County by the April 8th deadline. Environmental Protection Commission Poster Borough Administrator Aportela advised that the Environmental Commission is looking for permission to distribute a flyer to the businesses regarding the statewide ban on single use plastics and paper. She advised that, although she wanted to bring this request forward for the governing body’s approval, she also wanted to remind members of the public that they need to plan for the ban. Councilwoman Busteed added that a letter has already been sent to the businesses and this flyer is the second part of the Environmental Commission’s education campaign. It was agreed to authorize the Environmental Commission to distribute this flyer. It was also decided to place this information onto the Borough website. Sustainable Jersey Councilwoman Busteed explained that the Borough is a bronze-certified municipality with Sustainable Jersey and this certification is set to expire at the end of the year. She advised that the Green Team and Environmental Commission are looking for municipal support to complete the application to maintain this certification and inquired whether there is a Borough employee who could assist. She noted that the deadline to apply or request an extension is May 22nd and suggested that a shared drive be created for the sharing and storage of documents. The possibility of having a part-time employee in the Office of the Borough Clerk assist with the recertification application was discussed. Borough Administrator Aportela also suggested that a student who is taking environmental studies either at River Dell High School or Bergen Community College assist with this task. Borough Administrator Aportela is to reach out to IT to inquire about establishing a shared drive. Councilwoman Busteed is to work with Borough Administrator Aportela to schedule a follow-up meeting with Laura Hoogstrate of the Environmental Commission and the DPW Superintendent to discuss next steps. Borough Administrator Aportela will also reach out to the Principal of River Dell High School to discuss the possibility of establishing an internship program for this purpose. Senior Transportation – Ad-Hoc Committee Borough Administrator advised that the Senior Transportation Ad-Hoc Committee was not reappointed this year and noted that there is a need to review the rules and regulations for this program. It was decided that Council President Kaufman, Councilwoman Kinsella and Councilwoman Malellari will be appointed to the Senior Transportation Ad-Hoc Committee to review the rules and regulations for this program. NEW BUSINESS – (continued) April 11th Mayor & Council Meeting As there will not be a quorum for the April 11th Mayor and Council Regular Meeting, Mayor Papaelo noted that there is a need to either reschedule or cancel this meeting. On a motion by Councilman Chinigo, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, to move the public hearings for Ordinances #22-4 through #22-7 to April 25, 2022 at 7 p.m. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Motion by Councilwoman Busteed, second by Council President Kaufman, to cancel the April 11, 2022 Mayor and Council Regular Meeting due to lack of a quorum. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Busteed: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Senior Citizen Prom Councilwoman Malellari announced that River Dell High School Interact Club will be hosting a Senior Citizen Prom on May 20th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. She noted that no RSVP is required and there will be food, drinks, and music. Borough Clerk Dodd is to contact the local churches and synagogues to notify them of this event. Notification will be provided to senior citizen residents through the Recreation Department, Stu Heinzinger of the Local Emergency Management Council, the Library Director, and the Cultural Center. Information on this event will also be posted to the website and sent via Nixle. Historic Preservation Commission Historic Designation Councilwoman Malellari inquired when Borough Attorney Sarlo will be available in May to review the process to designate a property as historic. It was decided that the Historic Preservation Commission will attend the May 9th meeting to provide more specific information on this issue. Councilwoman Malellari noted that the website for the HPC archives is live and requested that a link to this page be placed on the website. OLD BUSINESS – Update on Construction Projects Please see the attached status report for 2021 and 2022 construction projects. PUBLIC COMMENTS – Motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, second by Councilwoman Malellari, and all members present voting in favor, to open public comments. Ray Stitz, 210 Mohawk Drive, advised that the pocket park referenced earlier this evening may be located on a paper street. Mayor Papaleo noted that there is a process by which the municipality can vacate a street and allow the property to be sold. Mr. Stitz advised that he takes care of the flags that are placed over Route 4. He stated that he will be placing two Ukranian flags and asked if there is any objection. Mayor Papaleo advised that it is not within the municipality’s jurisdiction to authorize this request. Motion by Councilwoman Busteed, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all members present voting in favor, to close public comment, all in favor. COUNCIL COMMENTS – Councilwoman Busteed announced that the Environmental Commission will not be conducting a river cleanup this May and the next cleanup is tentatively scheduled for October 15th. The Second Chance Toy Drive will take place on April 23rd from 9 am to 1 pm at Cherry Hill School. A styrofoam collection and shredding event is tentatively scheduled on June 4th at the DPW. The second annual Storm Drain Art Contest is currently underway. Councilwoman Busteed announced that the Green Team is looking for volunteers and encouraged anyone who is interested to contact either Mayor Papaleo or her. Mayor Papaleo announced that the River Edge Run is scheduled to take place on April 30th. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business to come before the Mayor and Council, on a motion by Councilman Chinigo, second by Councilwoman Malellari, and unanimously carried, to adjourn this meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Anne Dodd, RMC Borough Clerk