Mayor & Council

MINUTES Mayor and Council Regular Meeting October 23, 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 those suffering in Israel, Palestine and throughout the world, especially the victims who were assaulted while attending the music concert and their families as they await their children being released. Mayor Papaleo 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 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: Councilman Chinigo, Council President Kaufman, Councilwoman Malellari, Councilman Benson and Mayor Papaleo. ABSENT: Councilwoman Montisano-Koen and Councilwoman Kinsella ALSO PRESENT: Borough Administrator Lissette Aportela Borough Attorney Thomas Sarlo, Esq. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – On a motion by Council President Kaufman, seconded by Councilman Chinigo, and all members present voting in favor, that the Minutes of the Mayor and Council Regular Meeting of October 12, 2023 are hereby approved PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ANY ITEM ON THIS AGENDA – On motion by Councilwoman Malellari, seconded by Councilman Benson, 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 Councilman Chinigo, seconded by Councilwoman Malellari, and all present voting in favor, to close public comments on any item on the agenda. APPOINTMENTS & PERSONNEL CHANGES – APPOINTMENTS & PERSONNEL CHANGES – On motion by Council President Kaufman, seconded by Councilman Benson, and all members present voting in favor, to approve the following appointments and personnel changes: Approve the resignation of Jason Hall, Patrol Officer in the Police Department, effective November 1, 2023. PRESENTATIONS – Historic Commission – QR codes on street signs James Hoogstrate, member of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), advised that Eric Model, HPC member, conducted research on the history of various streets within River Edge and used this information to create videos. He played a few sample videos and advised that the plan is to place stickers with QR codes on the street sign poles which can be scanned to view the video containing the history of the street. He explained that they are looking to place a few stickers now as a pilot program, noting that it is unknown at this time how long the stickers will last. He expressed his belief that the school could potentially use these stickers as part of a walking tour for students to learn about the history of the streets within River Edge. Mr. Model explained that this project originated from Mary Donahue and is being done to honor her. He suggested that, perhaps, someone could make a video as an Eagle Scout project or Ms. Donahue could be in the video speaking about the history of her street. Mr. Hoogstrate proposed that they begin with Zabriskie and Bogert and then report back with their findings in the spring. It was agreed that the video containing aerial shots was the better of the two options that were presented. It was suggested that the shots be slowed down so that the older pictures of the streets can really be taken in. It was also suggested that the QR codes eventually be placed onto permanent metal signs. It was noted that the QR codes could be linked to the website to allow for images and text as well. Borough Attorney Sarlo advised that approval may be given through a resolution. He proposed that it be left somewhat vague so that a resolution would not be required every time a street is added. Chief Walker stated that he will have to investigate whether the stickers can be placed onto the street sign poles. He noted that the street signs are right next to the street and the grass median between the sidewalk and street serves as a safety buffer. He also expressed concern about children being near the street with their smartphones and potentially being distracted. This item will be listed on the November 13th agenda for further discussion. Chief Walker is to report back with his findings regarding whether these stickers can be placed onto the street sign poles. Mr. Hoogstrate and Mr. Model were requested to prepare mockups of a few different designs for the QR sticker to present. Should the governing body decide to proceed, Borough Administrator Aportela is to prepare a resolution to authorize this project. FOR DISCUSSION – Request by Police Department – Crossing Guard Post Recommendations Chief Walker advised that the Police Department is looking to place an additional Crossing Guard post at the intersection of Webb and Summit as well as to place a second Crossing Guard at the intersection of Wayne and Bogert. He explained the justification for these requests, noting that the purpose is to enhance safety. It was the consensus of the governing body to grant both requests. It was agreed to amend Ordinance 23- 20, which is listed for introduction, to add the intersection of Webb and Summit as a school crossing and to move the introduction as the next item on the agenda for consideration. FIRST READING – ORDINANCES – Ordinance #23-20 Motion by Council President Kaufman that the following ordinance be introduced and passed on first reading as amended to add the intersection of Webb Avenue and Summit Avenue and setting November 13, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the as the matter can be heard as the date and time and Zoom as the virtual platform for a hearing on said ordinance. Second by Councilwoman Malellari. Mayor Papaleo read the title of the ordinances into the record: Ordinance #23-20 – An Ordinance Amending and Supplementing the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of River Edge, Chapter 192, “Drug-Free Zones” The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: absent Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Councilman Benson: aye (See Ordinance #23-20 attached and made a part hereof.) FOR DISCUSSION – (continued) Proposed Amendments to Chapter 400 of the Borough Code Chief Walker explained that residents in the area have expressed concern that there is no stop sign at the intersection of River and Center Avenue. He advised that he has no issue with placing a stop sign at this location. Questions arose as to whether a study should be conducted prior to taking action. Chief Walker expressed his opinion that a study is not needed. He advised that approval would be needed from the State which the Police Department would handle obtaining. Chief Walker advised that the Police Department is also looking to add streets to the prohibited U-turn section of Chapter 400. He noted that they are looking at Summit Avenue in particular as people are making U-turns due to the congestion in that area. Concerns arose as to the signage that would be necessary for enforcement purposes. It was also questioned whether there can be certain timeframes imposed for when U-turns are prohibited. Chief Walker is to investigate whether certain timeframes can be imposed. Borough Administrator Aportela is to prepare an Ordinance for introduction to add the recommended streets to the list of prohibited U-turns within Section 400 of the Borough Code. With respect to the stop sign, Chief Walker is to look into the process to ensure that the addition of the stop sign at this location is done appropriately and report back. An ordinance will be prepared and potentially introduced at the next meeting if the governing body wishes to proceed. New Plenary Retail Consumption License Borough Clerk Dodd explained that, due to the most recent census, the Borough is entitled to issue an additional Plenary Retail Consumption License. She detailed the procedure to issue a new license through the public sale option, recommending that the minimum bid be set at $250,000. She advised that, although there are still some details that need to be finalized before proceeding, consensus is being sought as to whether the governing body wishes to move forward. Chief Walker spoke to the Police Department’s role in the process and the timeframe for certain steps to be completed. Questions arose as to whether the process could be completed this year, and if not, if it would be better to wait until next year. Borough Administrator Aportela expressed her opinion that, although the process most likely would not be completed before the end of the year, there is no reason for it not to commence this year. It was confirmed that an existing restaurant could bid on this license. As this type of license can also be purchased by a bar, concerns were raised over their hours of operation versus a restaurant. It was suggested that the ordinance governing hours of operation for these establishments be amended to restrict hours for any new establishment. It was the consensus of the governing body to move forward with this process. Borough Clerk Dodd is to confirm with the NJ ABC to see whether restrictions on hours can be implemented for new establishments and report back. Once this information is known, recommendations for parameters will be made. Best Practices Inventory Borough Administrator Aportela explained that the Best Practices Inventory is an annual exercise which requires municipalities to complete a survey with the number of questions varying from year-to-year. She further explained that municipalities must meet a minimum threshold to avoid a reduction in State aid. She advised that 49 out of 67 questions were weighted, and although it was only necessary to answer 29 in the affirmative, the Borough answered 39 questions in the affirmative. She noted that the inventory has been filed with the State and discussing it at a public meeting is the final step in the process. PROCLAMATIONS – Proclamation in honor of Diwali Mayor Papaleo advised that Priti Dhariwal is present this evening, noting that she organized the 6th Annual Diwali Day Celebration which he commented was a spectacular success. He advised that he was in attendance together with Council President Kaufman, Assemblywoman Swain and Assemblyman Tully. He then read the following proclamation into the record: PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is the largest and most anticipated holiday in Indian tradition and is celebrated every autumn during the Hindu month of Kartika; and WHEREAS, Diwali is celebrated over five days, each with their own significance and traditions, with the rituals of highest importance occurring on the third day; and  WHEREAS, Diwali also marks the beginning of the new year, which is celebrated by family gatherings, gifts and other traditions, as well as worship to Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity; and WHEREAS, during Diwali, oil lamps called diyas are lit to signify the belief that light will overcome the darkness, good will prevail over evil and love win out hatred; and WHEREAS, the holiday is a uniting force, as it is celebrated by the majority of people from India, regardless of their faith and is celebrated by more than one billion people worldwide. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Thomas Papaleo, Mayor of the Borough of River Edge and on behalf of the Council recognize and celebrate the significance of Diwali and encourage all residents to take this opportunity to celebrate and learn about Indian culture. Ms. Dhariwal spoke to the meaning behind Diwali. She thanked Mayor Papaleo and Council President Kaufman for attending the celebration and recognized the State Senate and Assembly for presenting citations in recognition of Diwali. RESOLUTIONS - By Consent a. #23-291 Authorize Deputy Treasurer to Issue a Refund Check to Leone Plumbing, LLC for a Street Opening at 240 Lexington Drive b. #23-292 Approve Refunds – Recreation Department c. #23-293 Approve the Appointment of a Volunteer Firefighter d. #23-294 Award Contract – River Edge Police Department Roof Replacement Motion by Councilwoman Malellari, second by Councilman Benson, that the Consent Agenda be approved. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: absent Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Councilman Benson: aye (See Resolutions #23-291 through #23-294 attached and made a part hereof.) #23-295 Payment of Bills Council President Kaufman read resolution #23-295 into the record: At a Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, held on October 23, 2023. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge approve the following expenditures.  CURRENT FUND $1,096,310.23 CAPITAL FUND $ 9,493.56 GRANT FUND $ 1,718.50 ANIMAL CONTROL FUND $ 9.60 TRUST OTHER FUND $ 5,911.74 PAYROLL FUND $ 17,221.00 DEVELOPER’S ESCROW FUND $ 2,911.50 RECREATION TRUST FUND $ 1,345.00 Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilman Chinigo , that Resolution #23-295 be approved. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilman Chinigo: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: absent Council President Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari aye Councilwoman Montisano-Koen: absent Councilman Benson: aye ******** NEW BUSINESS – There was no New Business. OLD BUSINESS – Borough Hall Repair & Renovation Project Update Borough Administrator Aportela reported that the building permits were issued on Friday and the contractor received the Notice to Proceed. It is anticipated that the project will take until June to complete depending on product availability. She advised that replacement of the elevator is being explored as the Borough recently learned that the parts have been discontinued. Voorhis Drainage Improvements Borough Administrator Aportela stated that the contractor will be done installing the second chamber this week and will perform regrading. Concrete work is planned to be performed next week depending on weather. PUBLIC COMMENTS – Motion by Councilman Chinigo, second by Councilman Benson, and all members present voting in favor, to open public comments. No one came forward. Motion by Council President Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Malellari, and all members present voting in favor, to close public comment. COUNCIL COMMENTS – Council President Kaufman announced that the Halloween event will take place this Saturday in Memorial Park at 2 pm. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business to come before the Mayor and Council, on a motion by Councilman Benson, second by Council President Kaufman, and unanimously carried, to adjourn this meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Anne Dodd, RMC Borough Clerk  BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE ORDINANCE #23-20 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE REVISED GENERAL ORDINANCES OF THE BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE, CHAPTER 192, “DRUG-FREE ZONES” 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. Section 192-1, entitled “Designation of school crossing”, shall amended with the following: Add: Bogert Road and Reservoir Avenue 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 take effect immediately upon final passage and publication as required by law. INTRODUCED: ADOPTED: ___________________________________ Thomas Papaleo, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________________ Anne Dodd, RMC, CMR Borough Clerk/Assistant Borough Administrator  Certification of Availability of Funds NJAC 5:30-5 Date: October 23, 2023 For Resolution #R23-294 To: Mayor and Council I hereby certify to the availability of public funds for the following specific purpose: Purpose: Award contract for the River Edge Police Department Roof Replacement to Frank Cyrwus, Inc, having its principal office at 227 Hamburg Tpke. Unit 8 in Pompton Lakes NJ 07442 in the amount of $116,210.00. Line Item (or Ordinance) to be Charged: C-04-22-016-040 - $116,210.00 _______________________________ Chris Battaglia, CFO