Mayor & Council

MINUTES Mayor and Council Regular Meeting April 24, 2023 7:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER – A Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge was held virtually via Zoom. 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 all those who are suffering under either the threat or reality of violence whether here in the United States or in the Sudan. He then led those present in the 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 9th of 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: Council President Kaufman, Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, Councilwoman Kinsella, Councilwoman Malellari, Councilman Benson (arrived at 7:14 p.m.) and Mayor Papaleo. ABSENT: Councilman Chinigo ALSO PRESENT: Borough Administrator Lissette Aportela Borough Attorney Thomas Sarlo, Esq. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – On motion by Council President Kaufman, seconded by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, and all members present voting in favor, that the Minutes of the Mayor and Council Budget Meeting of March 25, 2023 and Minutes of the Mayor and Council Regular Meeting of April 10, 2023 are hereby approved. PROCLAMATIONS & AWARDS Proclamation Declaring April 28, 2023 as Arbor Day Mayor Papaleo announced that Liz Stewart, Chair of the Shade Tree Commission, and Jen Dougherty, Secretary, are present this evening. He then read following proclamation into the record: PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, In 1872 J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees; and WHEREAS, this holiday, called ARBOR DAY was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska; and WHEREAS, ARBOR DAY is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and WHEREAS, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen and provide habitat for wildlife; and WHEREAS, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires and countless other wood products; and  WHEREAS, trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community; and WHEREAS, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Thomas Papaleo, Mayor of the Borough of River Edge, do hereby proclaim: April 28, 2023 as Arbor Day in the Borough of River Edge, and I urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands; and FURTHER, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and further generations. Ms. Stewart thanked the Mayor and Council for inviting her and Ms. Dougherty to attend this evening. She noted that, due to the support of the governing body as well as the residents, the Borough has a strong tree program. Ms. Dougherty commented that River Edge was recently voted as one of the best places to live and expressed her opinion that the Shade Tree Commission has helped to play a role in that. Mayor Papaleo expressed agreement that trees help to increase property value and make the community a restful place to walk. He thanked the Shade Tree Commission for all that they do for the community. Ms. Stewart finished by outlining the activities that are planned for Arbor Day. ******** PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ANY ITEM ON THIS AGENDA – On motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, 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 Council President Kaufman, and all present voting in favor, to close public comments on any item on the agenda. APPOINTMENTS & PERSONNEL CHANGES – On motion by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, seconded by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all members present voting in favor, to approve the following appointments and personnel changes: Extend Part-Time Internship of Olivia Shnaper for the Building Department effective April 25, 2023 at $15.45 per hour on an as needed basis. MONTHLY REPORTS – Mayor Papaleo advised that the following reports are on file in the Office of the Borough Clerk and available for review: Library Board of Trustees - April 2023 Land Use Board - March 22, 2023 2023 MUNICIPAL BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING & ADOPTION #23-128 Self-Examination of 2022 Municipal Budget Motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, second by Council President Kaufman, that Resolution #23-128 be approved. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: absent Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: absent #23-128 Self-Examination of 2023 Municipal Budget WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-78b has authorized the Local Finance Board to adopt rules that permit municipalities in sound fiscal condition to assume the responsibility, normally granted to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services, of conducting the annual budget examination; and WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 5:30-7 was adopted by the Local Finance Board on February 11, 1997; and WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-7.2 through 7.5, the Borough of River Edge has been declared eligible to participate in the program by the Division of Local Government Services, and the Chief Financial officer has determined that the local government meets the necessary conditions to participate in the program for the 2023 budget year. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the governing body of the Borough of River Edge that in accordance with N.J.A.C. 5:30-7.6a & 7.6b and based upon the Chief Financial Officer's certification, the governing body has found the budget has met the following requirements: 1. That with reference to the following items, the amounts have been calculated pursuant to law and appropriated as such in the budget: a. Payment of interest and debt redemption charges b. Deferred charges and statutory expenditures c. Cash deficit of preceding year d. Reserve for uncollected taxes e. Other reserves and non-disbursement items f. Any inclusions of amounts required for school purposes. 2. That the provisions relating to limitation on increases of appropriations pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.2 and appropriations for exceptions to limits on appropriations found at N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.3 et seq., are fully met (complies with CAP law). 3. That the budget is in such form, arrangement, and content as required by the Local Budget Law and N.J.A.C. 5:30-4 and 5:30-5. 4. That pursuant to the Local Budget Law: a. All estimates of revenue are reasonable, accurate and correctly stated, b. Items of appropriation are properly set forth c. In itemization, form, arrangement and content, the budget will permit the exercise of the comptroller function within the municipality. 5. The budget and associated amendments have been introduced and publicly advertised in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Local Budget Law, except that failure to meet the deadlines of N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5 shall not prevent such certification. 6. That all other applicable statutory requirements have been fulfilled. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution will be forwarded to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services upon adoption. #23-129 Resolution to Read the Budget by Title Only Motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, second by Council President Kaufman, that Resolution #23-129 be approved. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: absent Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: absent #23-129 Resolution to Read Budget by Title Only WHEREAS, N.J.S. 40A:4-8 permits that the Budget as advertised may be read by its title providing that at least one week prior to the date of the hearing a complete copy of the approved budget shall a) be posted in a public place where public notices are customarily posted, and b) is made available to each person requesting the same during said week and during the public hearing, and WHEREAS, the Borough of River Edge has complied with the aforesaid requirements. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Municipal Budget for the year ending December 31, 2023 shall be read by title only. Public Hearing on 2023 Municipal Budget Motion by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, second by Councilwoman Malellari, and all members present voting in favor, to open public comments on the 2023 Municipal Budget. No one came forward. Motion by Councilman Benson, second by Councilwoman Malellari, and all members present voting in favor, to close public comment #23-130 Adopting 2023 Municipal Budget Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, that Resolution #23-130 be approved. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: absent Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye #23-130 Adopting 2023 Municipal Budget WHEREAS, the 2023 Local Municipal Budget was approved by resolution #23-106 on March 27, 2023; and WHEREAS, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:4-6 was advertised in The Record on March 31, 2023; and WHEREAS, a public hearing on the budget was held on April 24, 2023. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Local Municipal Budget appropriating $19,655,247.40 be hereby adopted for the calendar year 2023. SECOND READING & HEARING ON ORDINANCES Ordinances #23-10 & #23-11 Mayor Papaleo read into the record: The following ordinances published herewith were first read by title only on April 10, 2023 and posted on the bulletin board of the municipal building. Ordinance #23-10 Bond Ordinance to Authorize the Improvement of Bogert Road (Section 7) In, By and for the Borough of River Edge, in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, to Appropriate the Sum of $348,240 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. Ordinance #23-11 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 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 $4,961,747 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 Public Comments on Ordinances #23-10 & #23-11 Motion by Councilwoman Malellari, second by Councilman Benson, and all members voting in favor, to open the floor to the public on Ordinances #23-10 and #23-11. No one came forward. Motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, second by Council President Kaufman, to close the floor to the public on Ordinances #23-10 and #23-11. Motion by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, second by Councilman Benson, that Ordinances #23- 10 and #23-11 be passed on second and final reading and are hereby adopted and notice of same shall be published according to law. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: absent Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye (See Ordinances #23-10 and #23-11 attached and made a part hereof.) RESOLUTIONS - By Consent Mayor Papaleo announced that there was a revision to Resolution #23-133 which was distributed to the governing body this afternoon, and as such, this resolution will be adopted as amended. a. #23-131 Adopt Sustainable Land Use Pledge b. #23-132 Approve the Hire of a Part-time Senior Bus Driver in the Department of Public Works c. #23-133 2023 Salary Resolution – Non-Contractual d. #23-134 Amend Resolution #23-116 – Confirm 2023 Salaries for Police Department e. #23-135 Approve Change Order #2 – Fire Department Co. #2 – Interior Renovations f. #23-136 Authorize Receipt of Bids – Cleaning Services for the Borough of River Edge g. #23-137 Authorize Purchase of Dasher Board System for Memorial Park Hockey Rink h. #23-138 Appoint Deputy Municipal Court Administrator i. #23-139 Recognize 54th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week Motion by Councilwoman Malellari, second by Council President Kaufman, that the Consent Agenda be approved as amended. With respect to Resolution #23-137, Councilwoman Montisano-Koen asked for confirmation that the replacement dasher board system will be sturdier and will better withstand weather. Borough Administrator Aportela confirmed that this system is sturdier and noted that, by purchasing through a national cooperative, there will be a 3-year warranty. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: absent Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye #23-131 Adopt Sustainable Land Use Pledge WHEREAS, land use is an essential component of overall sustainability for a municipality; and WHEREAS, poor land-use decisions can lead to and increase societal ills such as decreased mobility, high housing costs, increased greenhouse gas emissions, loss of open space and the degradation of natural resources; and  WHEREAS, well planned land use can create transportation choices, provide for a range of housing options, create walkable communities, preserve open space, provide for adequate recreation, and allow for the continued protection and use of vital natural resources; and WHEREAS, Given New Jersey’s strong tradition of home rule and local authority over planning and zoning, achieving a statewide sustainable land use pattern will require municipalities to take the lead. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, that we pledge to take the following steps with regard to our municipal land- use decisions with the intent of making River Edge a truly sustainable community. It is our intent to include these principles in the next master plan revision and reexamination report and to update our land-use zoning, natural resource protection, and other ordinances accordingly. • Regional Cooperation - We pledge to reach out to administrations of our neighboring municipalities concerning land-use decisions, and to take into consideration regional impacts when making land-use decisions. • Transportation Choices - We pledge to create transportation choices with a Complete Streets approach by considering all modes of transportation, including walking, biking, transit and automobiles, when planning transportation projects and reviewing development applications. We will reevaluate our parking with the goal of limiting the amount of required parking spaces, promoting shared parking and other innovative parking alternatives, and encouraging structured parking alternatives where appropriate. • Natural Resource Protection - We pledge to take action to protect the natural resources of the State for environmental, recreational and agricultural value, avoiding or mitigating negative impacts to these resources. Further, we pledge to complete a Natural Resources Inventory when feasible to identify and assess the extent of our natural resources and to link natural resource management and protection to carrying capacity analysis, land-use and open space planning. • Mix of Land Uses - We pledge to use our zoning power to allow for a mix of residential, retail, commercial, recreational and other land use types in areas that make the most sense for our municipality and the region, particularly in downtown and town center areas. • Housing Options - We pledge, through the use of our zoning and revenue generating powers, to foster a diverse mix of housing types and locations, including single- and multi-family, for-sale and rental options, to meet the needs of all people at a range of income levels. • Green Design - We pledge to incorporate the principles of green design and renewable energy generation into municipal buildings to the extent feasible and when updating our site plan and subdivision requirements for residential and commercial buildings. • Municipal Facilities Siting - We pledge, to the extent feasible, to take into consideration factors such as walkability, bikability, greater access to public transit, proximity to other land-use types, and open space when locating new or relocated municipal facilities. ******** #23-132 Approve the Hire of a Part-time Senior Bus Driver/Recycling Attendant in the Department of Public Works BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge that George Neher be and he is hereby hired as a part-time Senior Bus Driver/Recycling Attendant in the Department of Public Works at an hourly rate of $25.25 up to 29 hours per week with a (6) six- month probationary period, effective May 1, 2023. ******** #23-133 2023 Salary Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the following officers and employees of the Borough of River Edge be compensated for the year 2023 in accordance with Ordinance #23-1 effective January l, 2023 with the following base pay: EMPLOYEE POSITION SALARY HOURLY MAYOR & COUNCIL PAPALEO, THOMAS R MAYOR $ 5,000.00 BENSON, BARRY COUNCILPERSON $ 4,000.00 CHINIGO, DARIO A COUNCILPERSON $ 4,000.00 MALELLARI, KLODIANA COUNCILPERSON $ 4,000.00 KAUFMAN, MICHELLE COUNCILPERSON $ 4,000.00 KINSELLA, MATEE COUNCILPERSON $ 4,000.00 MONTISANO-KOEN, LISSA COUNCILPERSON $ 4,000.00 GENERAL ADMINISTRATION APORTELA, LISSETTE BOROUGH ADMINISTRATOR $ 160,000.00 APORTELA, LISSETTE QUALIFIED PURCHASING AGENT $ 5,000.00 DODD, ANNE BOROUGH CLERK $ 93,000.00 DODD, ANNE ASSISTANT BOROUGH ADMINISTRATOR $ 7,500.00 O'CONNELL, JUDY DEPUTY BOROUGH CLERK $ 65,922.64 * CONSTRUCTION/CODE ENFORCEMENT DALESSIO, MICHAEL J. ELECTRICAL SUB-CODE INSPECTOR $ 13,522.17 DALESSIO, MICHAEL J. BUILDING SUB-CODE OFFICIAL $ 4,181.05 PEPE, GARRETT PLUMBING SUB-CODE OFFICIAL/INSPECTOR $ 17,703.22 CONSTRUCTION OFFICIAL/BUILDING SUB- DEPKEN, STEPHEN A CODE OFFICIAL/BUILDING INSPECTOR $ 41,200.00 SHNAPER, NICOLE L. TECHNICAL ASSISTANT $ 66,509.28 CAPASSO, ADRIENNE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT $ 46,350.00 OTHER CODE ENFORCEMENT FUNCTIONS DEROSA, ARTHUR P PROPERTY MAINTENANCE OFFICER $ 31.44 ASSESSMENT OF TAXES ANZEVINO, JAMES A. TAX ASSESSOR $ 29,654.73 FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATION DEPUTY TREASURER/DEPUTY TAX BIRNBAUM, GOMATTIE S. COLLECTOR $ 88,811.29 * BATTAGLIA, CHRISTOPHER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER $ 64,927.08 GENOVESI, ANGELA ACCOUNTS PAYABLE CLERK $ 56,650.00 WONG, CARMEN ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CLERK $ 24.72 REVENUE ADMINISTRATION MATI, DEBRA TAX COLLECTOR $ 25,461.60 LEGAL CRUSIUS, ELSBETH PROSECUTOR $ 11,000.00 LAND USE BOARD ALTER, EDWIN $ 24.95 CIAVARELLA, LISA $ 24.95 MUNICIPAL COURT PATORAY, NOREEN P. COURT ADMINISTRATOR $ 77,400.00 * RANDAZZO, GUISEPPE MUNICIPAL JUDGE $ 14,500.00 HEALTH DEPARTMENT FAUSTINI, ARLENE NURSE $ 42,083.07 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT  SANDERS, WILLIAM OEM COORDINATOR $ 10,609.00 CARROLL, CORNELIUS DEPUTY OEM COORDINATOR $ 1,697.44 KIELY, COLLEEN CLERK/TYPIST $ 26.30 FIRE PREVENTION SILVERMAN, ALAN J FIRE OFFICIAL $ 22,646.96 SILVERMAN, ALAN J FIRE SUB-CODE OFFICIAL $ 10,300.00 LEONARDI, RALPH INSPECTOR $ 29.26 KIELY, COLLEEN CLERK/TYPIST $ 26.30 DEVRIES, PETER INSPECTOR $ 29.26 DREW, WILLIAM INSPECTOR $ 30.83 FIRE DEPARTMENT KIELY, COLLEEN CLERK/TYPIST $ 26.30 RECREATION/OPEN SPACE DESANCTIS, MICHAEL PARK ATTENDANT $ 24.81 RYAN, MICHELLE RECREATION $ 25.75 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS MILITO, JASON J. DPW SUPERINTENDENT $ 159,648.79 * LEISHMAN, CHRISTOPHR DPW ROAD FOREPERSON 2 $ 114,346.14 * STEPHEN, RICHARD DPW ROAD FOREPERSON 2 $ 106,351.04 * ADER, SCOTT W. DPW ROAD FOREPERSON $ 101,351.44 * DPW OFFICE MANAGER/ADMIN HESSMAN, LISA ASSISTANT/RECYCLING COORDINATOR $ 73,687.29 * FABISIAK, MIRIAM ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT $ 46,350.00 $ - POLICE DEPARTMENT $ - WALKER, MICHAEL J POLICE CHIEF $ 190,683.90 * AIELLO, DEBORAH POLICE SECRETARY $ 59,050.00 * BYRNE, CAROL M. POLICE RECORDS CLERK $ 51,500.00 MAUTHE, JOHN H DISPATCHER $ 53,045.00 CALLARI, THOMAS CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 CLARK, WILLIAM H CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 DEL PRETE, JEFFREY F. CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 DEPAUL, PHILIP CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 DONDIEGO, ROBERT E CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 GOLDBERG, MICHAEL M CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 INSINGA, PAUL CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 MCLOUGHLIN, SEAN CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 MENKES, GAIL CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 TINA, PAUL A CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 VAN GUNST, PETER CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 VELTEN, JOHN R CROSSING GUARD $ 23.91 JONES, MURIEL J CROSSING GUARD $ 22.71 COLLINS, JOSEPH CROSSING GUARD $ 21.52 GOBLE, JOHN CROSSING GUARD $ 21.52 PAOLILLO, RICHARD J. CROSSING GUARD $ 18.54 BYRNES, PAUL CROSSING GUARD $ 18.54 THOMAS, WILLIE CROSSING GUARD $ 18.54 MAGEE, RYAN DISPATCHER $ 25.75 MAUTHE JR., JOHN H DISPATCHER $ 25.75 BYRNES, LINDSAY DISPATCHER $ 24.46 FLORES-HENAO, CAROLINA DISPATCHER $ 23.18 IREOLA, CECILIA M DISPATCHER $ 23.18 PANCHI, MATTHEW DISPATCHER $ 23.18 SULLIVAN, KATIE DISPATCHER $ 23.18 SEWER SYSTEM PAMPALONI JR., JOHN P. SEWER OPERATOR $ 6,204.24 *Salaries marked with an asterisk include longevity  BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any formal action by a governing body approving or disapproving a measure establishing or modifying the salaries, benefits, or other compensation of its employees shall occur no earlier than the tenth calendar day immediately following the meeting at which the measure was introduced and discussed. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the actions of the Chief Financial Officer, Accounts Supervisor and Payroll Clerk to pay these salaries and wages effective January 1, 2023 is hereby ratified. ******** #23-134 Amend Resolution #23-116 – Confirm 2023 Salaries for the Police Department BE IT RESOLVED, that Resolution #23-116, adopted on March 27, 2023 is hereby amended with the following correction, which reflects the compensation in accordance with Ordinance #23-04 and the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the PBA Local 201 and the Borough of River Edge retroactive to January 1, 2023: EMPLOYEE POSITION SALARY FROM TO LEE, DANIEL H PATROLMAN $ 149,187.24* 1/1/2023 12/31/2023 * inclusive of longevity ******** #23-135 Approve Change Order #2 – Fire Department Co. #2 – Interior Renovations WHEREAS, via resolution #R22-300, adopted October 24, 2022, the Mayor and Council authorized the award of a contract to Lanyi & Tevald, Inc., for the Fire Department Co. #2 – Interior Renovations Project in the amount of $268,000.00; 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. 2 due to the need to provide and install a replacement men’s room door and hardware which resulted in an increase of $1,967.43; 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. 2 has been reviewed and approved by the Borough Architect. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge that it does hereby authorize Change Order No. 2, a copy of which is attached hereto. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Borough Administrator is hereby authorized to execute Change Order #2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Change Order shall increase the final contract price from $268,647.96 to $270,615.39. ******** #23-136 Authorize Receipt of Bids – Cleaning Services for the Borough of River Edge BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, that the Borough Clerk is hereby authorized to advertise for the receipt of bids for the Cleaning Services for the Borough of River Edge Contract; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that said bids shall be received at 11 A.M. on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at the lower level (Municipal Courtroom) of the Public Safety Building located at 705A Kinderkamack Road, River Edge, NJ 07661 at which time and place bids will be opened and read aloud; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that said advertisement shall be published in the Friday, April 28, 2023, issue of the Record in accordance with the Local Public Contracts Law.  ******** #23-137 Authorize Purchase of Dasher Board System for Memorial Park Hockey Rink WHEREAS, the Borough of River Edge received a matching grant award from the 2021 Funding Round of the Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland & Historic Preservation Trust Fund for the municipal park project entitled Batting Cages and Hockey Rink at Memorial Park; and WHEREAS, the improvements include replacement of the hockey rink dasher boards; and WHEREAS, the purchase of the hockey rink dasher boards was authorized in the 2022 capital budget; and WHEREAS, the Borough of River Edge is a member (ID# 10112) of Sourcewell (formerly known as National Joint Powers Alliance NJPA) as permitted by PL 2001, c. 139; and WHEREAS, the Interim Recreation Director, Michelle Ryan obtained quote from Athletica Sport Systems, for the 2” GamePlex® 2A Prefabricated Dasher Board System under Sourcewell Contract # 120320-ATH-1 in the amount of $79,290 and WHEREAS, the Borough Administrator prepared a cost savings determination recommending the purchase through the national cooperative; and WHEREAS, a notice of intent to award a contract under a national cooperative purchasing agreement was published in the Record on April 6, 2023; and WHEREAS, Athletica Sport Systems, has submitted a Business Entity Disclosure Certification on April 3, 2023, which certifies that the company has not made any contributions to any political or candidate committee in the Borough of River Edge in the previous one year that would render the company ineligible to be awarded this contract, and that the proposed contract prohibits Athletica Sport Systems from making any such reportable contributions through the term of the contract; and WHEREAS, Athletica Sport Systems. has submitted a Political Contribution Disclosure Form on April 3, 2023, required pursuant to NJSA 19:44A-20.26; and WHEREAS, Chief Financial Officer Chris Battaglia has advised that funding is available for this purchase. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge that the Borough Administrator is authorized to issue a purchase order the 2” GamePlex® 2A Prefabricated Dasher Board System to Athletica Sport Systems, having its principal office at 720 Innovation Drive in Shakopee, Minnesota, 55379 in the amount of $79,7920 under Sourcewell Contract #120320-ATH-1. ******** #23-138 Appoint Deputy Municipal Court Administrator BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge that Jaime Grimaldi is hereby appointed to the part time position of Deputy Municipal Court Administrator for the Borough of River Edge at an hourly rate of $35.00 per hour effective May 1, 2023. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Bergen County Municipal Division Manager at the Bergen County Justice Center and to the River Edge Municipal Court Administrator. ******** #23-139 Recognize 54th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week April 30 - May 6, 2023 WHEREAS, The Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk, a time honored and vital part of local government exists throughout the world; and WHEREAS, The Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk is the oldest among public servants; and  WHEREAS, The Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk provides the professional link between the citizens, the local governing bodies and agencies of government at other levels; and WHEREAS, Professional Municipal Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all; and WHEREAS, The Professional Municipal Clerk serves as the information center on functions of local government and community; and WHEREAS, Professional Municipal Clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk through participation in education programs, seminars, workshops and the annual meetings of their state, provincial, county and international professional organizations. WHEREAS, It is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, that the Borough recognizes the week of April 30 through May 6, 2023, as Professional Municipal Clerks Week, and further extend appreciation to our Professional Municipal Clerk - Anne Dodd, Deputy Clerk – Judy O’Connell, and to all Professional Municipal Clerks for the vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent. ******** #23-140 Payment of Bills Councilwoman Kaufman read resolution #23-140 into the record: #23-140 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 April 24, 2023. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge approve the following expenditures. CURRENT FUND $659,334.38 CAPITAL FUND $111,884.54 OPEN SPACE FUND $ 1,526.00 UNEMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND $ 1,900.50 DEVELOPERS ESCROW FUND $ 528.00 SELF INSURANCE TRUST FUND $ 2,569.44 RECREATION TRUST FUND $ 2,374.00 Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, that Resolution #23-140 be approved. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: absent Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye NEW BUSINESS There was no New Business. OLD BUSINESS – Memorial Park Basketball Court Lighting Borough Administrator Aportela explained that a concern was raised at the last Mayor and Council meeting regarding the lack of lighting at the basketball courts in Memorial Park at night. After consulting with the Interim Recreation Director, she learned that Ms. Ryan was contacted about this issue the same night as the Mayor and Council meeting. Ms. Ryan notified the resident that, although it was her belief that the sprinklers were on a seasonal timer, she would confirm with the DPW the next day. Borough Administrator Aportela further advised that she spoke with the DPW Superintendent who confirmed that the lights were on a seasonal timer and that they would be turned on beginning April 11th from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Councilwoman Kinsella confirmed that she also spoke with the Interim Recreation Director who relayed the same information. Construction Projects Update Borough Administrator Aportela provided the following update on construction projects: Bogert Road – Section 5 & 6 – involves paving only from Rutgers Place to Route 4 and sidewalk replacement from Howland to Wayne. The milling and paving will start first, then the concrete work. It is scheduled to begin either June 24th or after July 4th since Cherry Hill school is in the work zone. Voorhis Drainage – test pits will be conducted this week to check for any conflicts with the utilities. The precast detention system and other materials have been ordered. Work will begin in June. PSEG will be installing their high-pressure gas mains in July. If there are any conflicts, PSEG may need to adjust their schedule. The Borough Engineer’s office will provide the residents in the area with a written status of the project within the next week or so. The contractor will notify the residents a week before construction is set to begin. CDBG – in December, the Borough applied for handicapped accessible curbs and sidewalk & curb replacement at Oxford Terrace, Rutgers Place and Kinderkamack Road in the amount of $227,700. Based on the amount of funding available and the number of applications that had been submitted, on 4/17, the Bergen County Division of Community Development will recommend to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development that the Borough be awarded $123,747. The Borough will be notified of the amount of award between November and January. NJ Transit River Edge Train Station Borough Administrator Aportela advised that a resident sent an email on April 13th to report the conditions of the River Edge Train Station. As the Borough is not permitted to clean or repair NJ Transit property, the complaint was reported to NJ Transit and the train station was cleaned that day. It is also scheduled for maintenance this fall. PUBLIC COMMENTS – Motion by Councilwoman Kinsella, second by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, and all members present voting in favor, to open public comments. James Banks, 126 Adams Avenue, requested that the Mayor and Council consider placing a non- binding referendum question regarding the proposed school reconfiguration onto the November ballot. Borough Attorney Sarlo opined that the governing body does not have the authority to place a non- binding referendum question regarding a Board of Education issue onto the ballot. He noted that, as River Edge has a Type II School District, the Board of Education is considered an autonomous and interdependent body. He further noted that the statute governing non-binding referendum questions stipulates that the governing body may only place a referendum question regarding a policy or question pertaining to the government or affairs over which the governing body has jurisdiction. He advised that all case law that he researched supports this statute. Mr. Banks questioned whether anyone has the authority to place this question onto the ballot. Borough Attorney Sarlo responded that he is not providing an opinion as to whether the Board of Education has this authority. He reiterated that it is his opinion that the governing body does not have this authority. Motion by Councilwoman Malellari, second by Councilman Benson, and all members present voting in favor, to close public comment. COUNCIL COMMENTS – Councilwoman Kinsella announced that the River Edge Run is this Saturday, April 29th with the One- Mile Fun Run starting at 9 a.m., River Edge Run at 10 a.m., and 5k Health Walk at 10:05 a.m. Mayor Papaleo thanked all the volunteers who made this day possible as well as Michelle Ryan, Interim Recreation Director, and the Recreation Commission. He also thanked the Board of Education for allowing the use of Cherry Hill for this event. He commended the Environmental Protection Commission and Green Team for the Second Chance Toy Drive that they held this past Saturday. Councilwoman Kinsella thanked Ms. Ryan who was able to obtain donations of food and beverages for the River Edge Run. CLOSED SESSION – On a motion from Council President Kaufman, seconded by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all present voting in favor, the meeting was adjourned to the Closed Executive Session via Resolution #23-141 at 7:38 p.m. #23-141 Resolution to Go Into Closed Session and Exclude Public WHEREAS, the Open Public Meetings Act, NJSA 10:4-12 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances; and WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, as follows: 1. That the public shall be excluded from the April 24, 2023, regular meeting and discussion of the hereinafter specified subject matter: A. Attorney-Client Privilege – N.J.S.A. 10:4-12(b)(7) 1. Shared Services Agreement 2. JIF Litigation Matter Update 2. Formal action may/may not be taken. 3. Minutes will be kept and once the matter involving the confidentiality of the above no longer requires that confidentiality, then the minutes can be made public. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business to come before the Mayor and Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, second by Councilwoman Malellari, and unanimously carried, to adjourn this meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:39 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Anne Dodd, RMC Borough Clerk