TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE
JANUARY 20, 2026
MEETING MINUTES
A REGULAR MEETING of the Stillwater Township Committee was called to order by Mayor V. Rumsey at 6:04 p.m. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that this meeting is being held in compliance with the provisions of P.L. 1975, Ch. 231, Secs. 4 & 13 the Sunshine Law and that adequate notice of the meeting has been published in the New Jersey Herald as to the time, place, and date of meetings, and is posted in the usual location of posted notices in the municipal building as well as electronically on the township website.
ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney, Committeewoman L. Chammings, Committeeman G. Scott, and Mayor V. Rumsey
Also Present: Township Attorney E. Bernstein
EXECUTIVE SESSION: held in the Stillwater Township Municipal Building.
A MOTION was made by Committeewoman L. Chammings, seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney, with all members in favor, to adopt the Resolution permitting the Committee to go into Executive Session at 6:05 p.m.
STILLWATER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE
RESOLUTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231, P.L. 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting under certain circumstances; and
WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey as follows:
1. The public shall be excluded from that portion of this meeting.
2. The general nature of the subject matter to be discussed is as follows: Attorney-Client, Contract, Personnel
3. As nearly as can now be ascertained, the matter or matters to be discussed at this time will be disclosed to the public when such matters are resolved.
A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to go back into Regular Session at 7:03 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Committeewoman D. Delaney; yes, Deputy Mayor V. Rumsey; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, Mayor L. Chammings; yes. Motion carried with all in favor.
Township Attorney E. Bernstein stated that the record should reflect that all members of the governing body present, commencing from the Executive Session, are present to recommence the open session, along with the Township Attorney and the Township Clerk. There was a discussion regarding a prospective employee; possible action will be taken later in the meeting. No formal action at this time. Advice questions were asked to the Township Attorney relative to the DPW Contract, and information was provided. No formal action needs to be taken.
FLAG SALUTE: Mayor V. Rumsey led the Flag Salute.
VERIZON CELL TOWER- FREDON TOWNSHIP-RESIDENT CONCERNS DISCUSSION-Kate Coyle
Ms. Coyle stated that she wanted to express her concerns regarding the proposed cell tower being constructed in Fredon Township on the ridge in Paulinskill Lake. It’s going to be 173’ tall and a major eyesore to the residents of Paulinskill Lake. They are also concerned that it is going to scare away the eagles. She asked if the Township could reach out and express concerns on behalf of the residents. They spoke with the Environmental Commission already and have about 30 members who are going to attend the Fredon Land Use Board Meeting with Verizon to contest the cell tower. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that she was just given paperwork on the cell tower, including diagrams. The Committee will look everything over and take everything under advisement.
AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA
Mayor V. Rumsey noted Resolution 2026-037 will be added to the end of the agenda.
PUBLIC SESSION (Agenda Items Only – 3 Minute Time Limit)
Public Session Open.
D. Gatanas stated that he had some questions on the Cap Bank Ordinance. He noticed that other towns do this Ordinance annually as well. He asked if the money is used for a specific purpose. Mayor V. Rumsey noted that the CFO created an explanation of the Cap Bank Ordinance for the public’s knowledge and that there were copies in the back of the room. The Township Attorney explained that the Cap Bank Ordinance allows the municipality to bank their Cap obligations every year up to a certain amount of money, which then allows them to have in case there is a need to exceed the Cap for some unknown reason. Otherwise, it’s simply a number. Committeewoman L. Chammings and Committeeman G. Scott stated that they have never gone over the Cap as long as they have both served. It’s either been at or under the Cap.
D. Gatanas asked if there was an in-house supervisor for the Zoning Official. Mayor V. Rumsey responded that no one in town hall oversees the Zoning Official.
D. Gatanas asked what the Planning Board and Zoning Board’s goals are for 2026. Mayor V. Rumsey responded that the Planning Board is meeting for their reorganization meeting tomorrow. Deputy Mayor D. Delaney stated that the Planning Board is reviewing rental options, specifically Airbnb’s. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that they will also be reviewing the master plan. The Zoning Board & Zoning Official will be reviewing Ordinances and the Code for any necessary updates that need to be made.
K. Draghi stated that at the end of the year, the Zoning Board makes recommendations to the Planning Board, which then sends it to the Township Committee. The Township Attorney noted that the Zoning Board can make recommendations directly to the Township Committee. They do not have to send everything through the Planning Board for review first.
No further public comments.
Public Session Closed.
OLD BUSINESS:
ORDINANCE PUBLIC HEARING & FINAL ADOPTION
ORDINANCE 2026-01
CALENDAR YEAR 2026 ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NJ 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 up to 2.5% 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: 4-45.15a 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 Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater in the County of Sussex finds it advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2026 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 Township Committee hereby determines that a 1.0% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $29,252.36 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and,
WHEREAS the Township Committee 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 Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex, a majority of the full authorized membership of this governing body affirmatively concurring, that, in the CY 2026 budget year, the final appropriations of the Township of Stillwater shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14, be increased by 3.5%, amounting to $102,383.00, and that the CY 2026 municipal budget for the Township of Stillwater be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and,
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, 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.
A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney, to open the discussion on Ordinance 2026-01 to the public.
No Public Comment. Public Session Closed.
A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to adopt Ordinance 2026-01.
ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried with all in favor.
NEW BUSINESS: None
CONSENT AGENDA – All items with an Asterisk (*) are considered to be routine
and non-controversial in nature. All such items will be handled by one (1) motion, one (1) second, and one (1) vote. There will be no separate discussion of any of these items unless a Committee member requests the same, in which case the item(s) will be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered in its normal sequence on the Agenda.
*MINUTES: December 16, 2025 Regular & Executive Meeting Minutes
December 30, 2025 Special & Executive Meeting Minutes
January 6, 2026 Regular & Executive Meeting Minutes
January 10, 2026 Regular & Executive Meeting Minutes
*CORRESPONDENCE
1. Letter From The DEP To The County Of Sussex Regarding An Unregistered Dam Along County Route 521
*REPORTS:
1. Community Center Receipt Report – December 2025
2. Recreation Commission Report – December 2025
3. Board of Health Receipts –December 2025
4. Vacant/Abandon Property Registration Report – December 2025
5. Convenience Center Report – December 2025
6. Registrar Report – December 2025
7. Certified Copies Report – December 2025
8. ACO Report – December 2025
9. Landlord Registration Fees- December 2025
10. DPW Monthly Report- December 2025
11. Tax Collector’s Report- December 2025
12. Office of Construction Official Report- December 2025
13. Food License Renewal Report- December 2025
14. Sheriff’s Office of Sussex County- Stillwater Township Patrol June 2025-December 2025
15. Environmental Commission 2025 Annual Report
16. Zoning Officer’s Report- December 2025
*RESOLUTIONS:
RESOLUTION 2026-012 RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER APPROVING APPOINTMENTS OF TOWNSHIP BOARD AND COMMISSIONS
RESOLUTION 2026-024 RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER
ESTABLISHING COMMITTEE DEPARTMENTS
RESOLUTION 2026-025 A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF AF & EJF, LLC, FARMLAND PRESERVATION
RESOLUTION 2026-026 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING RON TAPPAN AS THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER QUALIFIED PURCHASING AGENT
RESOLUTION 2026-027 APPOINTMENT OF PUBLIC AGENCY COMPLIANCE OFFICER AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
RESOLUTION 2026-028 RESOLUTION TO REFUND PREMIUM DUE ON A TAX LIEN,
WHICH WAS REDEEMED ON DECEMBER 3, 2025, FOR 915 MILLBROOK ROAD, BLOCK 3201 LOT 14
RESOLUTION 2026-029 RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF RAFFLE LICENSES RA-2026-01 AND RA-2026-02 FOR STILLWATER TOWNSHIP PTA
RESOLUTION 2026-030 RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF RAFFLE LICENSE RA-2026-03 FOR DASI
RESOLUTION 2026-031 MAYOR’S ACCEPTANCE OF THE RESIGNATION OF KELLYANN DIBATTISTA AS A MEMBER OF THE RECREATION COMMISSION WITH COMMITTEE CONCURRENCE
RESOLUTION 2026-032 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TRANSFER OF 2025 APPROPRIATIONS
RESOLUTION 2026-033 A RESOLUTION PERMITTING STILLWATER TOWNSHIP TO ASSESS BLOCK 1901, LOT 6.03, HAMPTON TOWNSHIP
RESOLUTION 2026-034 RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION 2025-184 ENTITLED “RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARDS OF NON-FAIR AND OPEN CONTRACT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER”
RESOLUTION 2026-035 RESOLUTION APPOINTING RISK MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT
RESOLUTION 2026-002A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AWARDS OF NON-FAIR AND OPEN CONTRACT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER
APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA
A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to adopt the Consent Agenda with the exception of Resolution 2026-024, 2026-033, and 2026-034 for further discussion.
ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried with all in favor.
Committeewoman L. Chammings stated that she wanted to discuss Resolution 2026-033. Section 1B states that the property must remain vacant. She asked if the Town would be able to add a community garden or pickleball court down the road if the resolution states this. The Township Attorney stated that another discussion would be needed with Hampton Township if they’d like to put something on that property in the future. A community garden could go in, but anything else, if they wanted to add a shed, etc., would need approval and to go through the Planning Board. The Committee decided to pull Resolution 2026-033 from the agenda and table it until the next meeting.
Committeewoman L. Chammings stated that for Resolution 2026-024, she had requested to also be liaison for Stormwater Management/Engineering and Fair Share Housing. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that the resolution can be amended, and for the Clerk to add them to the Resolution.
A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser, with all members in favor, to amend Resolution 2026-024 to include Stormwater Management & Fair Share Housing under Lisa Chammings as liaison.
Committeewoman L. Chammings stated that for Resolution 2026-035 & 2026-002A, she just wanted to state that she appreciated everyone’s agreement to go back to Gallagher Risk Management.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
- Municibid Results
Committeewoman L. Chammings stated that the ambulance sold on Municibid for $5,100 and was picked up earlier that day from the town hall.
- LRIG Grant Items
The Committee discussed the LRIG grant items and agreed to pare down the requests and just focus on one project. They agreed the Community Center needs a new entryway, including the door, a new furnace, new generators for the community center and fire side, and AC. A resolution will be on the next agenda for approval.
OPEN PUBLIC SESSION at 7:36 pm
L. Sylvestor stated that he was there on behalf of the Kittatinny School District and just wanted to pass along some information to the Township Committee. They are mailing quarterly newsletters to residents and welcome the public to attend their meetings. They are working on a new cell phone policy at schools for next year. Some of the board members have taken professional development classes. They are working on improving themselves to best serve the community and increase transparency. The budget for the school has remained the same, even though the funding from the state has significantly decreased. They have cut back a lot at the school but are continuing to look for more ways to reduce costs to taxpayers. They are looking into participating in a regionalization study for grades pre-k through 12th. They are studying the projected demographics to try and anticipate a decrease in the number of children aged or an uptick as well as what the cost savings would be to do this. They are also looking into additional shared services. Their meetings are on Thursdays at 7:00 pm and all are welcome to join.
J. Doherty read the following statement to the Township Committee:
“I AM HERE THIS EVENING TO SHARE WITH COUNCIL AND MY FELLOW CITIZENS MY OPINION ABOUT OUR STATE GOVERNMENT AND ITS RECENT ANTI-I.C.E. ACTIONS SOLIDIFYING NEW JERSEY AS A SANCTUARY STATE. I THINK WE ALL CAN AGREE THAT LEGAL IMMIGRATION HAS ITS MERITS AND HAS BEEN A CORNERSTONE OF OUR IMMIGRATION HISTORY. HOWEVER, ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION IS A DIFFERENT STORY. IT IS WELL DOCUMENTED THAT THERE ARE MANY UNDESIRABLES IN THE MILLIONS WHO BREACH AMERICA’S BORDERS AND IT IS RIGHT AND PROPER TO PURGE SAID ELEMENT FROM OUR MIDST IF THE RULE OF LAW IS TO SURVIVE. IT OCCURS TO ME THAT THE PROGRESSIVE LIBERAL DEMOCRATIC LAWMAKERS DON’T SEE IT THAT WAY. FORMER GOVERNOR MURPHY HAS ALWAYS CHAMPIONED THE ILLEGALS, AND NEWLY-INSTALLED GOVERNOR SHERRILL ECHOES HIS SENTIMENT AND HAS EVEN GONE SO FAR AS TO CHALLENGE AND DEFY PRESIDENT TRUMP ON ENFORCING FEDERAL LAW. IT IS BOTH OUTRAGEOUS AND OBSCENE THAT THE PEOPLE’S SO-CALLED REPRESENTATIVES CODDLE AND SHIELD CRIMINAL ILLEGAL ALIENS, MANY OF WHOM ARE VIOLENT, HAVING INFLICTED PAIN, SUFFERING, AND DEATH ON AMERICAN CITIZENS. PROPOSING, SUPPORTING, AND PASSING SUCH LEGISLATION LABELED SIMPLY AS AN IMMIGRANT PROTECTION POLICY FAILS TO ACCURATELY DESCRIBE THE TRUE NATURE OF THIS TREACHEROUS ACT. SHAME AND CONDEMNATION ON ALL WHO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE THIS SCOURGE THAT HAS BEEN PERPETRATED UPON THE GOOD PEOPLE OF NEW JERSEY!”
The Township Committee thanked Mr. Doherty for his statement.
I. Snooks expressed concern over the cell tower in Fredon. He stated that they were at the Environmental Commission meeting on Monday. The Eagles that nest on the ridge in Paulinskill Lake are in danger from the construction of the cell tower.
D. Gatanas commented on the LRIG grant and how its primary beneficiary would be the Community Center. He asked if the Community Center is a financial liability and if it earns enough money to cover all of its costs. Mayor V. Rumsey responded that it is a Community Center and its primary purpose is to serve members of the community. She stated that they are going to work on lowering the costs for the private parties again soon.
D. Gatanas stated that he noticed that all the Board and Committee’s terms have been added to the website except for the Planning Board. He asked when that would be updated. The Clerk responded that she would look into it the next day and update.
M. Tsadilas stated that she was there on behalf of CERT. CERT will be hosting a “Storm Restoration” presentation at the Community Center on January 28th at 7:00 pm. They will also be hosting the Community Safety Programs through the Sheriff’s Department. March 10th will be the first one on “Winter Safety” from 1:00 pm until 2:30 pm at the Community Center. On April 12th, they are hosting “Avenues in Motion” and will be giving away 70-75 free bike helmets that range from size small through adult. They fit the helmet to your head to ensure that it’s being worn properly. They will also be providing bike safety tips.
B. Tigue stated that the potholes are terrible on Possum Hill Road and wanted to know if the DPW is relaying the condition that they are in.
S. Michaelman echoed the comment and stated that the potholes that were filled in have since been removed again by the snowplows. She also asked if there was an update as to the increased number of power outages that was discussed at the last meeting. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that a letter was sent to JCP&L requesting a meeting. Committeewoman L. Chammings stated that she has a meeting with the JCP&L representative, engineer, and forestry next week to discuss the problem areas in Stillwater as OEM, and she will report back.
R. Rivonne stated that the meeting at the Fredon Township Land Use Board is on the 26th. Verizon and its attorney will be present at the meeting. They asked if the town could promote the meeting. The Committee agreed that they could post the information for Fredon’s Land Use Board meeting on the Township website.
P. Tigue asked if the Veteran’s box was placed in the municipal building. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that it was. He stated that the subject is very dear to his heart, and he encouraged the residents present to please bring in donations and encourage others to do so as well. The collection is through February 6th. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that they will consider having a permanent Veterans’ donation collection box there.
K. Draghi stated that the mahjong group is giving their monthly donation to Veteran’s projects this year. She also commented that the cell tower in Fredon is similar to what happened with the one that was installed at the Community Center. She stated that the Town & Zoning had fought it; however, the judge declared in court that it was inherently beneficial to the public and let it pass anyway.
L. Sylvestor stated that he had been approached by a local veteran back in September regarding the Hometown Hero flags. He has spoken with the Town of Newton, which explained that the Vet’s families purchased the banners. The town purchased the hardware, and the DPW installed it. The flags last about 6 years, after which the flag can be given to the family, and they have the option of purchasing another one. This is organized through the Recreation Commission. He also spoke with Sparta, which is run through their VFW. They usually place their orders in March for the flags, then put up for the month of May for Memorial Day, and for the month of November for Veteran’s Day. He stated that the township could do it for however long they want; for the month like Sparta, from May through November, or year-round. He would like to be able to do them and have them up for Veteran’s Day this year. He suggested that the forms and money be collected by the town.
J. Robinson stated that she lives on Old Station Road and has an issue with the oil and stone. She asked if the people that reside on that road put together a letter and expressed that they would like it not be oiled and stoned next year, would the town accept it? Mayor V. Rumsey stated that the town goes by the advice of the engineers for the roads and would consider it.
J. Mineravino thanked the Township Committee for letting her put the Veterans’ donation collection bin in the municipal office. She stated that she’s also collecting Valentine’s for veterans as well and sends them to local veterans. She offered to contact the veterans from her list to see if they’d like to do a banner.
D. Drumm stated that the hardware was about $45 per pole and that the ones that they purchased for the bicentennial were donated to the town, so they are more than welcome to use them for the Veterans’ banners.
No further public comment.
PUBLIC SESSION CLOSED.
ATTORNEY’S REPORT
The Township Attorney gave his report during the executive session.
BILLS LIST #1 $1,425,999.24
RESOLUTION 2026-036 AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF BILLS
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available in the proper account; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has approved payment upon certification from
the Township Department Heads that the goods and/or services have been rendered to the
Township;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of Stillwater that the current bill lists, dated January 20, 2026, are on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Chief Financial Officer and approved by the Chief Financial Officer for payment, be paid.
A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to adopt Resolution 2026-036, funds permitting.
Committeewoman D. Delaney commented that she will be abstaining from check number 31347, it was for printed at her place of business.
ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes/abstain from CK 31347, Mayor V. Rumsey; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes. Motion carried with all in favor.
AMENDMENT TO AGENDA ITEM
RESOLUTION 2026-037
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF MATTHEW LAMBERT
AS FULL-TIME DPW EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater appoint Matthew Lambert as Full-Time DPW Operator pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement’s Equipment Operator Year 6 2026 rate. Mr. Lambert’s effective start date is January 21, 2026.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this appointment was made at a meeting of the Township Committee on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser, to adopt Resolution 2026-037.
ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried with all in favor.
ADJOURNMENT
A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott with all in favor, to adjourn the meeting at 8:34 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Valerie Ingles, RMC
Township Clerk
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