Mayor & Council

MINUTES Mayor and Council Regular Meeting February 15, 2024 7:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER – A Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge was held in person at the River Edge Public Library located at 685 Elm Avenue, River Edge, NJ 07661 and virtually via Zoom on February 15, 2024. 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 the victims of the Kansas City Super Bowl celebration shooting. He then 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 11th of this location, date, time and access information 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 Kaufman, Council President Montisano-Koen, Councilwoman Kinsella, Councilwoman Malellari, Councilman Benson, Councilman Glass and Mayor Papaleo. ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Borough Administrator Lissette Aportela Borough Attorney John L. Shahdanian, Esq. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – On a motion by Councilwoman Kaufman, seconded by Councilman Benson, all members present voting in favor, that the Minutes of the Mayor and Council Regular Meeting and Closed Session of January 22, 2024 are hereby approved. PROCLAMATIONS & AWARDS Certificates of Recognition – Abigail Finan – Girl Scout Gold Award Mayor Papaleo noted that the Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest honor. He then presented a Certificate of Recognition to Abigail Finan for achieving this award. He read the certificate into the record: “The Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge are proud to present this Certificate of Recognition to  Abigail Finan and honor and congratulate her upon her attainment of the Girl Scout Gold Award. We are very proud to have such a talented, hard working and positive role model in our community and wish you the best in the future.” Ms. Finan explained that the process was different for her as she is a Juliette Girl Scout which means that she was the only girl in the troop. She advised that she chose body positivity and education as her issue and explained the program that she created to educate young girls about this issue. Proclamation – James Arakelian Mayor Papaleo noted that James Arakelian offered his service to the Land Use Board for close to 27 years, having recently stepped down from this role. He read the following proclamation into the record: PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, James Arakelian began his service on the Planning Board in 1996, and during his tenure, he served in the role of Chair for five years and oversaw the Planning Board and Zoning Board merger into the current Land Use Board; and WHEREAS, James recently decided to step down from his role on the Land Use Board after approximately 27 years of admirable service; and WHEREAS, James and his wife Tisha have been long time residents of River Edge, moving to the Borough in 1992 where they chose to raise their two children Marissa and Timothy who both attended the River Edge school system; and WHEREAS, James served as a member of the Bogota Volunteer Fire Department for sixteen years before becoming a member of the River Edge Volunteer Fire Department where he volunteered as a firefighter for seventeen years; and WHEREAS, James also served as Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator for 12 years, assisting the Emergency Management Coordinator with planning, activating, coordinating and conducting emergency management operations within the Borough; and WHEREAS, James was appointed as the Community Development Central Representative for the Borough of River Edge for approximately 10 years, where he spent most of his time as Vice President of the committee and brought in grant awards in excess of a million dollars for the Borough; and WHEREAS, James also served on the committee for the Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland & Historic Preservation Trust Fund where he steered many recreation grants in the Borough’s direction; and WHEREAS, James has always exemplified the highest degree of morality and his guidance and insight were sought, valued and integrated into public policy; and WHEREAS, James has always been an admirable citizen and a worthwhile asset to our community through public service, especially through his extensive volunteer efforts and his love for his family, friends and the Borough of River Edge. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Thomas Papaleo, Mayor of the Borough of River Edge on behalf of the Borough Council and all our residents do Honor, Thank and Commend James Arakelian for his many years of dedicated service on the Land Use Board and his legacy of accomplishments and contributions improving the lives of the residents of River Edge and the residents of Bergen County. We also offer and extend our best wishes to him for good health and future successes. Mr. Arakelian commented that it is very heartwarming and nice to be recognized. He expressed his love for the town and stated that he enjoyed his 5 years as Chair of the Land Use board and was glad to hand the baton to the current Chair, Chris Caslin. He remarked that he is proud of the work that the governing body has done and his friendship with Mayor Papaleo. Mayor Papaleo announced that New Business Item 15A on the agenda will be considered next. NEW BUSINESS – Stone Marker – Memorial Park Mayor Papaleo explained that Mr. Stitz is looking to place a stone marker in Memorial Park on the south side in honor of Elliot Goff. Ray Stitz, 219 Mohawk Drive, advised that Elliot Goff was a resident of River Edge and Senior Airmen in the Air Force. He explained that Elliot developed Leukemia, and after a long battle, he succumbed to this disease on June 3, 2020. He noted that Elliot leaves behind his mother, Loren, and sister, Cheryl, advising that Elliot’s father passed away from COVID in March 2020. He explained that Koch Monument has offered to prepare this plaque for free and he will work with Jason Milito, DPW Superintendent, on where to place this stone marker. He expressed it is planned to have a dedication on Memorial Day and have Elliot’s mother attend. Joe Ricca, Recreation Superintendent, expressed his support for this request. It was the consensus of the governing body to authorize Mr. Stitz to proceed with the project in coordination with Mr. Milito and Mr. Ricca. He is to work within the limitations of the park with respect to location. PRESENTATIONS – KBG Improvements Mr. Ricca spoke to KBG Park’s poor condition after the two recent floods. He explained that the parking lot was just completed and the park itself is in need of updating. He described where the flood area is located and explained the proposed improvements which include fencing, netting, concession stand, new entrance sign, batting cage, and pickleball courts. He advised that, based on a quote that was received, the cost to install two pickleball courts to include fencing is approximately $100,000. He confirmed that this expense would not be covered by the current grant funding nor would the expense for the batting cage, explaining that the current grant funding is for fencing, some grading, and drainage. He advised that there is some funding designated for the improvements to the concession stand and field house and quotes for those improvements are currently awaited. Jeyson Flores of Costa Engineering explained that funding through Open Space would be utilized to complete the improvements in the field and enhance the improvements that have already been made to the parking lot which included paving, striping and signage. He noted that this plan essentially makes the fields standard size, relocates fencing and includes regrading where currently permitted. He advised that they are attempting to get answers from NJ DEP as to where else regrading will be permitted. Borough Administrator Aportela explained that the 2019 and 2020 Open Space Grant funding does not cover the pickleball courts, batting cage, sprinklers, or concession stand and confirmed that there was funding allocated to the concession stand in the 2019 Capital Budget which was never spent. She noted that the 2019 and 2020 grants had to be extended as information regarding the flood line was awaited. She advised that the flood line has been delineated and confirmed. She stated that, in addition to seeking approval from the governing body on the concept plan, they are also looking to confirm whether the total amount or a portion can be placed into this year’s Capital Budget. She commented that, should the governing body wish to, instead, seek grant funding for the pickleball courts, batting cage and concession stand this year, the funding would not be received until next year. It was questioned whether the grant funding could be used toward the fencing for the pickleball courts in the amount of $35,000. Borough Administrator Aportela confirmed that it could be utilized for this purpose. She advised that $50,000 from an old encumbrance was found which could also be utilized and would leave $15,000 in new funding that would need to be allocated. Mr. Ricca explained that, due to the installation of the pickleball courts, the batting cage would need to be relocated and the cost for a new batting cage is between $80,00 to $100,000. Mr. Flores expressed his opinion that the total amount that would be needed for the pickleball courts and batting cage without fencing would be $100,000. He commented that, with respect to the drainage improvements, they will only help to alleviate, not solve, the flooding in this area by redirecting the flow and increasing the rate of draining. Concerns were raised about whether flooding could impact the proposed improvements. It was confirmed that gates would be installed that can be opened when flooding takes place to alleviate the stress on the fence. It was also confirmed that the area where the batting cage is being placed experiences minimal flooding. It was questioned whether the soccer field would be impacted by this plan. Brianne Etter, Vice Chair of the Recreation Commission, advised that the location of the soccer fields was moved due to the flooding. It was the consensus of the governing body to approve the concept plan. It was decided to wait until after the March 18th Budget Meeting to determine whether to place funding into the Capital Budget or apply for grant funding for the pickleball courts, batting cage, and concession stand. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ANY ITEM ON THIS AGENDA – On motion by Councilwoman Montisano-Koen, seconded by Councilwoman Kaufman, 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 Malellari, seconded by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all present voting in favor, to close public comments on any item on the agenda. APPOINTMENTS & PERSONNEL CHANGES – On motion by Council President Montisano-Koen, seconded by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all members present voting in favor, to approve the following appointments and personnel changes: Approve the Resignation of Anthony Scrazati, Crossing Guard, Effective February 6, 2024 MONTHLY REPORTS – Mayor Papaleo advised that the following reports are on file in the Office of the Borough Clerk and available for review: Environmental Protection Commission - January 16, 2024 & Green Team Tax Collector - January 31, 2024 Historic Commission - January 30, 2024 Library Board of Trustees - January 02, 2024 Board of Health - January 29, 2024 FIRST READING – ORDINANCES – Ordinance #24-03 Motion by Councilwoman Kaufman that the following ordinance be introduced and passed on first reading and setting February 29, 2024 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 the hearing on said ordinance. Second by Council President Montisano-Koen. Mayor Papaleo read the title of the ordinance into the record: Ordinance #24-03 - An Ordinance to Authorize A Special Emergency Appropriation N.J.S. 40A:4- 53 Borough Administrator Aportela explained that the DPW has been mandated by the NJ DEP to implement a mapping system known as a GIS system as part of the stormwater regulations. Due to the cost, she advised that, in consultation with the Borough Auditor and Bond Counsel, it was recommended to authorize this expense as a special emergency appropriation which allows the Borough to pay it off over five years. She noted that there is also a resolution on tonight’s agenda to cancel capital balances which are balances for projects that have already been completed or equipment that has already been purchased. She further noted that these balances will be used to pay off this purchase through this ordinance over the five years. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari: aye Council President Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Glass: aye (See Ordinance #24-02 attached and made a part hereof.) SECOND READING & HEARING ON ORDINANCES Ordinance #24-02 Mayor Papaleo read into the record: The following ordinance published herewith was first read by title only on January 22, 2024 and posted on the bulletin board of the municipal building. Ordinance #24-02 – An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 33 of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of River Edge, Entitled Fire Department Public Comments on Ordinance #24-02 Motion by Council President Montisano-Koen, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all members voting in favor, to open the floor to the public on Ordinance #24-02. Borough Administrator Aportela explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to increase the maximum limitation for the clothing allowance reimbursement for the Volunteer Fire Department as well as to change the disbursement date from January 15th to January 31st. No one came forward. Motion by Councilwoman Kaufman, second by Councilman Benson, to close the floor to the public on Ordinance #24-02. Motion by Councilwoman Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, that Ordinance #24-02 be passed on second and final reading and is hereby adopted and notice of same shall be published according to law. On a roll call, the vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari: aye Council President Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Glass: aye RESOLUTIONS - By Consent a. #24-79 Approve LOSAP Certification List – River Edge Volunteer Ambulance Service b. #24-80 Confirm Emergency Purchase – Emergency Sewer Repair c. #24-81 Authorize Execution of 2023 Municipal Recycling Tonnage Grant Program Reporting Form d. #24-82 Amend Professional Services Contract – Traffic Engineer e. #24-83 Authorize Purchase of Batting Cages for Memorial Park f. #24-84 Amend Contract – Architectural Services – Borough Hall Addition and Renovation – Arcari & Iovino Architects, PC g. #24-85 Resolution to Cancel Capital Balances h. #24-86 Resolution to Refund Escrow Money i. #24-87 Transfer of Funds in the Budget Appropriation Reserve j. #24-88 Amend 2024 Meeting Schedule k. #24-89 Approve the Appointment of Crossing Guard Motion by Councilwoman Kaufman, second by Councilman Benson, that the Consent Agenda be approved. Council President Montisano-Koen questioned the increase in the Traffic Engineer’s contractual obligation. Borough Administrator explained that this increase was due to additional revisions that were required prior to finalizing his report as well as the need to attend onsite meetings and appear before the governing body last month. Councilwoman Kinsella questioned whether the additional architectural services being authorized by Resolution #24-84 will impact the overall cost of the project. Borough Administrator Aportela confirmed that this work will result in a Change Order. She noted that the design will determine the additional cost and time to complete the project, noting that it is premature to say what the impact will be at this time. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari: aye Council President Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Glass: aye ******** #24-90 Payment of Bills Councilwoman Kaufman read resolution #24-90 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 February 15, 2024. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the Borough of River Edge approve the following expenditures. CURRENT FUND $ 8,048,700.22 GENERAL CAPITAL FUND $ 976,612.06 ANIMAL CONTROL $ 174.00 TRUST OTHER $ 29,428.12 OPEN SPACE $ 57,134.00 DEVELOPER’S ESCROW $ 75.00 RECREATION TRUST $ 116.42 Motion by Councilwoman Kaufman, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, that Resolution #24-90 be approved. The vote was recorded as follows: Councilwoman Kaufman: aye Councilwoman Malellari: aye Council President Montisano-Koen: aye Councilman Benson: aye Councilwoman Kinsella: aye Councilman Glass: aye ******** NEW BUSINESS – Request for Company #1 Firehouse – March 12th St. Patrick’s Dinner Councilman Benson explained that the Fire Chief is requesting permission for alcohol to be served at a St. Patrick’s Day dinner on March 12th, noting that neither the Fire Chief nor Company #2 would be participating in this event. It was the consensus of the governing body to grant this request. OLD BUSINESS – Cannabis Overlay Zone Councilwoman Kaufman advised that the hours of operation that were included in the draft ordinance will need to be amended to reflect 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. There was no objection to this proposed revision. Councilman Glass noted that there is reference made to a Planning Board rather than the Land Use Board throughout the ordinance. He expressed concern that there is no distance restriction with respect to preschools included in the ordinance and suggested that they also be included. He expressed his opinion that there should be a more detailed description of the security that is required. He pointed out that on page 2 of 5 the word Borough was omitted in the section regarding fees. It was agreed that, despite whether the requirements with respect to security are outlined in the Statute, this information will be restated within the ordinance for the benefit of clarity. It was noted that a security plan would need to be reviewed and approved by the Police Chief prior to the dispensary opening. It was the consensus of the governing body to list these ordinances with the requested revisions for introduction on February 26th. Borough Attorney Shahdanian is to relay the requested revisions to Mr. Lagana who prepared the draft ordinances. The revised drafts will be circulated to the governing body once prepared. Mayor Papaleo provided a brief synopsis of the process going forward. PUBLIC COMMENTS – Motion by Council President Montisano-Koen, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, and all members present voting in favor, to open public comments. Omar Hassan, 727 Seventh Avenue, advised that neighboring towns have hosted a Ramadan Crescent Lighting and requested that the governing body undertake a similar initiative. He stated that he is willing to work with either the Recreation Department or Cultural Affairs to plan this event. He indicated that he would consider donating the Crescent. It was agreed that this request will be listed on the February 26th agenda under Old Business for further consideration. Borough Attorney Shahdanian is to conduct research as to whether the Borough is permitted to host such an event. Mr. Hassan was requested to provide information on the events that other towns have held. Motion by Council President Montisano-Koen, second by Councilman Benson, and all members present voting in favor, to close public comment. COUNCIL COMMENTS – There were no Council Comments. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business to come before the Mayor and Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Malellari, second by Councilwoman Kinsella, and unanimously carried, to adjourn this meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:38 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Anne Dodd, RMC Borough Clerk  BOROUGH OF RIVER EDGE ORDINANCE #24-03 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION N.J.S. 40A:4-53 BE IT ORDAINED by the Borough Council of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, that pursuant to N.J.S. 40A:4-53 the sum of $138,515.00 is hereby appropriated for the Preparation of stormwater management system map and shall be deemed a special emergency appropriation as defined and provided for in N.J.S. 40A:4-53. The authorization to finance the appropriation shall be provided for in succeeding annual budgets by the inclusion of at least 1/5 of the amount authorized pursuant to this act (N.J.S. 40A:4-55). BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that this ordinance shall take effect at the time and in the manner provided by law. I, Anne Dodd, Clerk of the Borough of River Edge, County of Bergen, do hereby certify the foregoing to be a true and correct copy of an ordinance adopted by the Borough Council at a meeting of said Borough Council held on February 15, 2024, and said ordinance was adopted by not less than a two-thirds vote of the members of the Borough Council. Witness my hand and seal of the Borough of River Edge this 15th day of February 2024.  Motion Se1:ond Yes No Abstain Absent Kaufman X X Montisano-Koen X Kinsella X X Malellari X Benson X Gla�s X Mayor Papaleo I hereby certify the above to be a true copy of an Ordinance /fhomas Papale0,Mayor adopted by the Governing Body of the Borough of River Edge on az� February 15, 2024 Anne Dodd, RMC Borough Clerk