June 16, 2026 Meeting Minutes

Township Committee

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TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER

TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE

JUNE 16, 2026

MEETING MINUTES

A REGULAR MEETING of the Stillwater Township Committee was called to order by Mayor

V. Rumsey at 6:03 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(6:17), Committeeman G. Scott, and Mayor V. Rumsey

ABSENT: None

Also Present: Attorney Eric Bernstein, Esq. and Municipal Clerk V. Ingles

EXECUTIVE SESSION: held in the Stillwater Township Municipal Building.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott, seconded by Committeeman D. Manser, with all present members in favor, to adopt the Resolution permitting the Committee to go into Executive Session at 6:04 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: Personnel, Litigation/Potential Litigation, Attorney Client

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 Deputy Mayor D. Delaney, to end Executive Session, and go back into Regular Session at 6:58 P.M.

It should be noted that Committeewoman L. Chammings arrived at 6:17 P.M. and was present for the remainder of the Executive Session.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, and Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried forward with all in favor.

FLAG SALUTE: Mayor V. Rumsey led the Flag Salute.

PROCLAMATION: PROCLAMATION HONORING PENNY HOLENSTEIN UPON HER RETIREMENT

PROCLAMATION: AMERICA’S 250^TH ANNIVERSARY

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Committeeman David Manser

Committeeman D. Manser stated he attended the Stillwater Board of Education meeting on June 1^st, where there was a lengthy discussion about repairs to the gym. The BOE has some architects and engineers on it, and they have some numbers. The BOE will be putting it out to referendum. More information can be found on their website, and there’s another meeting on June 22^nd. Stillwater’s 6th-grade graduation was tonight, and Kittatinny’s graduation will be tomorrow night. The Recreation Commission held Stillwater Day, which went very well until the storm moved in. There were great vendors, food, and the band was great. Committeeman D. Manser spoke with the people working at the Recycling Center, and the employee suggested a handout to help residents know what can/cannot be brought there.

Committeewoman Lisa Chammings

Committeewoman L. Chammings stated the Environmental Commission met, and one of the things they discussed was recycling and some of the labeling concerns regarding the co-mingle. There was also concern raised about the steps to get to the newspaper bin. Both concerns were brought to our DPW to be addressed. TREX still continues to be collected about once per month, and there have been about 700 pounds collected so far! The Zoning Board met and had a brief discussion and approved some bills; It was a quick meeting. As OEM, JCP&L has been working to bring in new lines from Marksboro down Route 521 and Stillwater Road. They’re working hard to get that redundancy loop done. Over by Swartswood State Park, there is a whole cleared right-of-way for JCP&L; again, this is to help with the redundancy loop.

Committeeman George Scott

Committeeman G. Scott stated the Stillwater Fire Department had a meeting Monday night to discuss Stillwater Day. So far, there have been 81 fire calls and 178 EMS calls as of June 1^st. He thanked Mr. Sylvester for the Memorial Day service that was held at Veteran’s Park. The DPW is working on a 5-year equipment plan. The DPW is also having an issue with equipment breakdowns during mowing, but we’re working on it. Lastly, the tree company has been out trimming trees.

Deputy Mayor Dawn Delaney

Deputy Mayor Dawn Delaney stated Clean Up Day was recently held. There was a total of 980 pounds of garbage, 420 pounds of recycling, and 58 tires collected. She also noted the Recreation Commission held the Miss Stillwater, Junior Miss Stillwater, and Little Miss/Mister competition. Miss Stillwater is Safron Bessler, Junior Miss Stillwater is Zoe, Junior Mister is Damian Silva, Little Miss is Adelaide Slate, and Little Mister is Hudson Castner-Morgan. She also went to the last Planning Board meeting, where all bills were approved, and the Airbnb discussion was tabled until the next meeting. The Cannabis Ordinance was discussed – 7 members of the public spoke regarding it.

Mayor Vera Rumsey

Mayor V. Rumsey thanked our DPW employee Justin, DPW Supervisor Doug, and OEM Lisa Chammings for all their help after the storm that came through on Stillwater Day. There were a lot of large trees and debris; they all worked hard to get everything cleaned up quickly for the residents. The DPW is getting stronger, and we’re looking to add one more to the team.

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA

Mayor V. Rumsey requested to add Resolution 2026–114 titled, “Mayor’s Appointment of Tyler Crowley as a Member of the Stillwater Area Volunteer Fire Department with Committee Concurrence”.

OPEN PUBLIC SESSION (Agenda items only – 5 min time limit)

Mayor V. Rumsey noted that, for right now, this session is for agenda items only, not including the Cannabis Ordinance.

Township Resident K. Draghi inquired as to why the Recreation Commission is down to just 6 people. Deputy Mayor D. Delaney responded that the schedule can be a lot, and there is a lot of work to do.

Township Resident R. Lippencott wanted to correct the Planning Board meeting record that was stated tonight. He clarified that he voted not to adopt the ordinance and instead requested additional time to review and make recommendations.

Township Resident L. Sylvester questioned if there would be a portion of the meeting where the public could comment on the proposed Cannabis Ordinance, since they were not allowed to do so during this public session. Mayor V. Rumsey reassured him that there would be time for that specific discussion.

Township Resident R. Kelsky wanted to supplement what Committeeman D. Manser said regarding the school and the school’s repair project. At the last meeting, it was reported that it’s about $3 million worth of work being proposed, and the referendum would be regarding a bond issuance by the town. There will be a meeting held with the engineers, and the public will be invited to join.

No further public comment.

Public Session Closed.

OLD BUSINESS:

ORDINANCE PUBLIC HEARING & FINAL ADOPTION

ORDINANCE 2026–08 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AMENDING SUPPLEMENTING AND REVISING ORDINANCE § 240-134 ENTITLED “CANNABIS”

OPEN PUBLIC SESSION (Ordinance 2026-08 only – 5 min time limit)

A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott to open the meeting up to public discussion regarding Ordinance 2026–08.

Township Attorney E. Bernstein advised the public that everyone will be given 5 minutes to speak, and Township Clerk V. Ingles will be letting the speaker know when they have 1 minute remaining. He noted this is not a debate, nor a give-and-take, but rather a presentation of the public’s comments/opinions.

Township Resident D. Drumm spoke in favor of the cannabis ordinance. She noted she is a nurse practitioner who has been prescribing medical cannabis for 10+ years. She read a letter she wrote addressing the Committee, citing the Township’s dedication to farming, open space, and the benefit of revenue for the Township. She also noted that NJ has some of the strictest and most comprehensive regulations when it comes to cannabis cultivation.

Township Resident H. Fisher spoke against the cannabis ordinance. She inquired as to what had changed since cannabis cultivation was originally banned within the Township in 2021. She also noted the Planning Board deemed it to be inconsistent with Stillwater’s Master Plan, so she feels the Committee should explain why it’s overriding the Planning Board’s recommendations.

Township Resident M. Erb spoke against the cannabis ordinance. She stated that when cannabis was made legal back in 2020, all municipalities were required to adopt an ordinance on their stance on cannabis, hence how the 2021 ordinance came about. She also noted concerns about impacts on neighbors, impact on the environment, and issues with cost, like employee salary and benefits, along with the cost to police and enforce issues.

Township Resident TJ Norcia spoke as the owner of a hemp farm, and in favor of the cannabis ordinance. He reminded the public that he’d been cultivating CBD, which is technically a cannabis business, for 7 years without any issues. Most notably, for 7 years, most of the public didn’t even know this farm was here in the Township. He also noted he operates under the Right to Farm Act, and he is licensed with the State. He invited anyone from the public to contact him directly with any questions or concerns they may have.

Township Resident I. Blanchard spoke in favor of the cannabis ordinance. He noted he served on the Environmental Commission for a few years, and he now currently works on an organic vegetable farm. He’s seen TJ Norcia’s operation and commended it for how clean and well-run it is, noting he feels it’s of the highest standard of organic agriculture. He noted there have been no issues with odor, traffic, or water use. He feels the Township should approve the ordinance, but in a way that will protect the Township’s rural character and its residents from industrial-grade growing, but also still allow a small cultivator to grow their business a little bit.

Township Residents E. Macrovitch spoke against the cannabis ordinance. She noted she was speaking on behalf of herself and her husband, David. She also noted she’s read the ordinance, the original ordinance, and all relevant meeting minutes/notes. She feels the Planning Board has turned it down, therefore the Committee should as well. There is also concern over whether this ordinance is consistent with the Master Plan of Stillwater. She is also very concerned that this ordinance could open the Township to potential litigation.

Township Resident J. Oakes spoke in favor of the cannabis ordinance. He stated he’s a neighbor of Mr. Norcia. He suggested putting this ordinance out on a ballot for a referendum so that the Township’s residents can vote on it.

Township Resident L. Sylvester spoke against the cannabis ordinance. He noted he feels the Zoning Officer will not supervise, due to his part-time employment, and the Township doesn’t have a police department, and that it’s too close to residential homes. He questioned who would monitor public concerns. Furthermore, he felt the ordinance was written specifically for one person.

Township Resident K. Coyle spoke not in favor, but also not against the cannabis ordinance. She feels the ordinance needs to be adjusted as it comes across as unfinished. She also feels it shouldn’t be limited to just 1 license, but perhaps allow 2 or 3. She pointed out multiple opportunities for adjustment within the ordinance.

Township Resident R. Kelsky spoke against the cannabis ordinance and cannabis in general. He noted the Township is too small and too rural to even discuss something like cannabis. He cited concerns similar to those of others who oppose the ordinance, like lack of consistency with the Master Plan, potential for litigation, water use, etc.

Township Resident D. Fisher spoke against the ordinance, referring to how it’s inconsistent with Stillwater’s Master Plan. He cited that the Master Plan is supposed to be the Township’s blueprint and that it emphasizes rural character, protecting agricultural lands, preserving open space, and preventing incompatible development.

Township Resident D. Grossman spoke in favor of the cannabis ordinance. He stated he’s been in town for 23 years and that we’re the ‘Garden State,’ but farmers are having a hard time. He noted CBD is a very beautiful thing to many people, as they’ve been able to switch from painkillers and sleeping pills to CBD. He feels it would be good for us, as a Township, to be a part of the CBD movement.

Township Resident K. Draghi spoke against the cannabis ordinance. She noted the current ordinance allows up to 1,000 plants, which seems to be a bit more than a microbusiness, operating hours 9 a.m.- 9 p.m., 7 days a week. She also, like a few others, is concerned about the motivation behind this ordinance.

Township Resident R. Lippencott noted he was speaking as a resident, not as a Planning Board member. He noted there is no reason to rush; the State is moving on this, so he feels that warrants additional time to decide. He feels the cannabis doesn’t have to be grown here, but it could potentially be delivered here from another municipality.

Township Resident J. Swartout spoke in favor of the cannabis ordinance. He stated he feels this is good for farmers. There are many big corporations and commercial companies that will end up pushing out little farms, so we should support small farms. He noted that in rural areas, there is farming. He also noted there are more Amazon trucks than any other vehicle that farming may invite in. He feels people should be allowed to use their property and not be restricted.

Township Resident J. Secofsky spoke against the cannabis ordinance, although she has no objection to cannabis. She is simply against changing the rules in Stillwater, especially when people don’t know about it. She also noted concern for what this could potentially do to the Township.

No further public comment.

Public Session Closed.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney to close the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Township Attorney E. Bernstein noted the Township Committee is in receipt of a letter from Mr. Haggerty, the Attorney for the Planning Board. The ordinance was reviewed by the Planning Board, but they feel they didn’t have enough time to efficiently review the ordinance and therefore cannot deem it to be either consistent or inconsistent with the Master Plan, citing N.J.S.A. 40:55(b)–26a. If the Planning Board were to deny the ordinance, they would have to include the reasons why they are not going forth. Township Attorney E. Bernstein further notes that in the letter from Mr. Haggerty, there is no report or cited reasons as to why the Planning Board may deny this ordinance, just merely an outline of what was discussed. He also noted that the 35 days in the State Statute is a State Law, and if the Planning Board has had that time, then the governing body can allow additional time, but it does not have to. He also noted that there is no one with automatic approval with the passing of this ordinance. Whoever decides to apply will still need to apply to the Zoning Board & the Planning Board, as well as the Township Committee and to the state.

Committeewoman L. Chammings wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for coming to the meeting and sharing their opinions. She noted that when the ordinance was introduced, there was a 3–2 vote with a majority in favor, so the Ordinance should be introduced and the public should be heard from, although a majority of the present residents seem to be against the ordinance. She also noted this is a very difficult topic. She noted she’s also a farmer; she’s the one who spreads phosphates and hurts the water quality more than a marijuana facility will. She also noted that she wants to stick to the Master Plan and that she wants to keep the rural character of the Township. Committeewoman L. Chammings also stated that she was one of the sitting members who voted to ban cannabis in the 2020 Ordinance and cited it was due to how much was still unknown, but since then, more information has been presented, and she has learned more about it, so now it’s time to reexamine the 2020 Ordinance. She noted that the current hemp operation in Stillwater has been operating for 7 years, and many individuals would have never known it was there if the proposed Ordinance had never come before the Township Committee. On a final note, she stated that as the Ordinance is currently written, she would vote ‘no,’ but that it should be reviewed, and some changes should be made.

Deputy Mayor D. Delaney said she feels similarly to Committeewoman L. Chammings, and that more research needs to be done and everything needs to be reexamined. She stated she is not necessarily in favor, but she’s also not necessarily against it. She also noted that she’s concerned with how many people are against this, yet the farm has been operating for 7 years. She also noted there is no intent of industrial use or giant warehouses/greenhouses. Deputy Mayor D. Delaney also stated she is hopeful that something can be worked out in a way that the individual can continue to farm while also producing a new product to make some money, and that the Township can reap some of the income from that product. She also noted that this Ordinance isn’t for one person; it’s just an Ordinance.

Mayor V. Rumsey stated she agreed that the Ordinance needed to be tailored a bit. She asked Township Attorney E. Bernstein if this Ordinance is voted down tonight, since Planning Board meetings are always the night after the Township Committee meetings. If this Ordinance were voted down tonight, would there be any way to get it tailored with the Planning Board’s input, to introduce it at the next Township meeting in July?

Township Attorney E. Bernstein suggested the Township Committee provide the Planning Board with a deadline to have all their suggestions made, and he suggested the deadline date as being September 30, 2026, then the Township Committee discuss a tailored Ordinance at the first October 2026 meeting. He advised the Committee to take no action and make no vote tonight, and to let the Planning Board review and tailor the current proposed Ordinance.

Committeeman G. Scott stated he’s served on the Township Committee for 32 years and that the current hemp farm is a good business; it’s well run and impressive. He inquired to the public, it’s been there for 7 years, has anyone ever smelled it? Have there ever been any issues? Has anyone ever been affected? He did state that this isn’t the Ordinance for Stillwater and that it needs quite a bit of work to try to come up with a solution.

Mayor V. Rumsey stated there have been rumors that a dispensary will be opening in Stillwater. This isn’t true. The grown marijuana would be sold to already existing dispensaries. Furthermore, the Ordinance doesn’t even allow for a Class 5 license, which would be what is needed to open/operate a dispensary.

Committeeman D. Manser thanked the public for their feedback and comments, regardless of whether they were in favor or against the proposed Ordinance. He noted this is your [the resident’s] town, comments don’t go unnoticed, and he feels the Committee owes the public a vote tonight.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman D. Manser and seconded by Committeewoman L. Chammings to move forward with Ordinance 2026–08.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; no, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; no, Committeeman G. Scott; no, and Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion failed, majority voted no.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Mayor V. Rumsey to refer Ordinance 2026–08 to the Planning Board, with them giving a report to the Township Committee by September 30, 2026.

Township Attorney E. Bernstein advised Township Clerk V. Ingles to advise the Planning Board of the decision in the morning.

Committeewoman L. Chammings asked Township Attorney E. Berstein if the 2 Township Committee members, who also sit on the Planning Board, are required to recuse themselves. Township Attorney E. Berstein advised that, due to NJ State Law, they are not required to recuse themselves; they are members on the Planning Board.

ORDINANCE INTRODUCTION & FIRST READING

ORDINANCE 2026–09 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND, REVISE AND SUPPLEMENT THE TOWNSHIP CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, BY CREATING A NEW CHAPTER 212 OF THE TOWNSHIP CODE ENTITLED “GAS FRANCHISE” [Second Public Hearing & Final Adoption July 21, 2026]

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to introduce Ordinance 2026–09.

R. Velenti spoke on behalf of Elizabethtown Gas briefly regarding the introduced Ordinance. He stated the goal is to just give residents some options; anyone is free to stay with whatever they currently have, but Elizabethtown would just provide the residents with another choice. The initial interest and focal point is the Paulinskill Lake community. He reiterated that natural gas is much cheaper than propane. He stated that Elizabethtown Gas will be conducting a traditional survey via the mail.

A MOTION was made by Mayor V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman L. Chammings to open the meeting to the public for discussion of Ordinance 2026–09.

Mayor V. Rumsey asked who would be responsible for the cost of repairing the roads if this were to move forward, as the roads would have to be ripped up in order to install the gas lines. R. Valenti reassured that Elizabethtown would be responsible for repairing the roads to their original condition. Deputy Mayor D. Delaney noted that it wouldn’t be good, as the roads now aren’t in good shape. R. Valenti noted that there is no way for Elizabethtown to completely repair the roads and bring them to a condition that is better than the current.

Township Resident K. Draghi inquired as to whether there was any monetary incentive to switch to natural gas. R. Valenti responded that yes, there are incentives and rebates available for those who switch.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney to close the meeting to the public and continue hearing Ordinance 2026–09 on July 21, 2026, at the Township Committee meeting.

ORDINANCE 2026–10 AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER TO INCLUDE AND DESIGNATE DATA CENTERS AS A NON-PERMITTED USE IN ALL ZONES WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER [Second Public Hearing & Final Adoption July 21, 2026]

A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2026–10.

ORDINANCE 2026–11 ORDINANCE MAKING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF $75,000 FROM CAPITAL FUND BALANCE FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS GARAGE IN AND BY THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX. NEW JERSEY [Second Public Hearing & Final Adoption July 21, 2026]

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to introduce Ordinance 2026–11.

Committeewoman L. Chammings noted this was for the DEP-required fuel tanks.

ORDINANCE 2026–12 CAPITAL ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $24,000 FOR TOOL PURCHASES TO OUTFIT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS [Second Public Hearing & Final Adoption July 21, 2026]

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney to introduce Ordinance 2026–12.

Mayor V. Rumsey noted this was for the tools that the DPW have been going without for quite a while.

RESOLUTION 2026–102 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX FOR DE-ICING MATERIALS

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeewoman L. Chammings, to adopt Resolution 2026–102.

Committeewoman L. Chammings thanked the County for still providing this shared service, as it’s very convenient for our DPW to get to.

RESOLUTION 2026–103 MAYOR’S ACCEPTANCE OF THE RESIGNATION OF KERI KLAMERUS AS A MEMBER OF THE RECREATION COMMISSION WITH COMMITTEE CONCURRENCE

A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott, to adopt Resolution 2026–103.

Committeeman G. Scott asked that a thank-you letter be sent to Ms. Klamerus for her service on the Recreation Commission.

RESOLUTION 2026–104 RETAIL LIQUOR LICENSE RENEWALS 2026-2027

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeewoman L. Chammings, to adopt Resolution 2026–104.

RESOLUTION 2026–105 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER TO ENTER INTO AN EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH MATTHEW LAMBERT

A MOTION was made by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney and seconded by Mayo V. Rumsey, to adopt Resolution 2026–105.

RESOLUTION 2026–106 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CANCELLATION OF A SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN STILLWATER TOWNSHIP AND FRANKFORD TOWNSHIP AND PROVIDING THE REQUIRED THIRTY (30) DAY NOTICE

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser, to adopt Resolution 2026–106.

The Committee asked that a thank you be sent to Frankford Township and to Mark Yetter for providing this shared service when the township needed it.

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: May 19, 2026 Regular & Executive Meeting Minutes

June 9, 2026 Workshop Regular & Executive Meeting Minutes

*CORRESPONDENCE–

1. Township of Frelinghuysen Ordinance 2026-07 “AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF FRELINGHUYSEN, IN THE COUNTY OF WARREN, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE TO INCLUDE AND DESIGNATE DATA CENTERS AS A PROHIBTED USE IN ALL ZONES WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP OF FRELINGHUYSEN

2. Hampton Township Ordinance 2026-13 “AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 108, ENTITLED ‘ZONING’ OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF HAMPTON, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO PROHIBIT DATA CENTERS IN ALL ZONES’

3. Hampton Township Resolution 2026-61 “URGING THE NEW JERSEY STATE LEGISLATURE AND GOVERNOR TO REPEAL THE GAS TAX ESCALATOR AND RESTORE ACCOUNTABILITY TO FUEL TAX INCREASES”

4. Hampton Township Ordinance 2026-09 “AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 108, ENTITLED “ZONING” OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF HAMPTON, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO PERMIT HORSES, PONIES, LARGE ANIMALS AND FOWL AS ACCESSORY USES IN CERTAIN ZONES SUBJECT TO REQUIREMENTS

*REPORTS:

1. Liquor License Renewal Report – May 2026

2. Recreation Commission Report – May 2026

3. Board of Health Receipts – May 2026

4. Vacant/Abandoned Property Registration Report – May 2026

5. Convenience Center Report – May 2026

6. Registrar Report – May 2026

7. Certified Copies Report – May 2026

8. ACO Report – May 2026

9. Tax Collector’s Report – May 2026

10. Office of Construction Official Report – May 2026

11. Zoning Officer’s Report – May 2026

*RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION 2026–107 AUTHORIZING REFUND OF PLANNING BOARD ESCROW ACCOUNTS

RESOLUTION 2026–108 RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE REDEMPTION FOR TAX SALE CERTIFICATES 16-03 AND 0094 FOR PROPERTIES LOCATED AT OLD FOUNDRY ROAD AND 992 OLD FOUNDRY ROAD, STILLWATER, NEW JERSEY 07860

RESOLUTION 2026–109 A RESOLUTION URGING THE NEW JERSEY STATE LEGISLATURE AND GOVERNOR TO REPEAL THE GAS TAX ESCALATOR AND RESTORE ACCOUNTABILITY TO FUEL TAX INCREASES

RESOLUTION 2026–110 MAYPR’S APPOINTMENT OF MICHAEL OLDENBURG AS A MEMBER OF THE STILLWATER AREA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT WITH COMMITTEE CONCURRENCE

RESOLUTION 2026–111 RESOLUTION RE: REQUESTING GOVERNOR MIKIE SHERRILL RESTORE FULL FUNDING TO THE NEW JERSEY SCHOOL OF CONSERVATION

RESOLUTION 2026–112 RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION 2026-100 ENTITLED “RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE STOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF JUSTIN CHERNES AS PART–TIME SEASONAL DPW LABORER”

APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA

Committeewoman L. Chammings asked that Resolution 2026-096 be pulled from the Consent Agenda for a separate vote. She asked about the Bed and Breakfast deposit on the Landlord Registration Report. Municipal Clerk V. Ingles stated that the Zoning Officer had instructed her to deposit the fee for the Bed & Breakfast application, and if they’re not a true bed & breakfast, it could be refunded.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney to adopt the Consent Agenda.

Deputy Mayor D. Delaney noted she will be abstaining from the vote on the May 19^th minutes as she wasn’t present for that meeting.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes/abstain from 6/19/2026 meeting minutes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, and Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried forward with all in favor.

DISCUSSION ITEMS:

1. Meeting Room Microphones

Mayor V. Rumsey stated she’s been asking for microphones for a long time, and there were a few residents who said tonight that if they’re sitting in the back, they can’t hear the Committee.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeewoman L. Chammings to authorize Township CFO to buy microphones for the dais, but not to exceed $500.

2. Cameras for the Park

Mayor V. Rumsey suggested solar cameras, as there have now been two (2) instances of vandalism at Veteran’s Park. Committeewoman L. Chammings noted we had previously purchased one (1) camera. Mayor V. Rumsey stated that the camera was moved to Town Hall when all the tractor-trailers began coming through, but it was damaged and is unusable. The new cameras would be solar; they would be located at the pavilion to cover that portion of the park, and the other would be in the parking lot to cover that portion of the park.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney to authorize the Township CFO to buy cameras for Veteran’s Park, but not to exceed $600.

3. Zoom

Mayor V. Rumsey stated there have been issues with Zoom like outbursts directed at Committee people and people using fake names and fake icons. Township Clerk V. Ingles was asked to survey the other municipalities within Sussex County to see how or if they use Zoom for their Township Committee meetings. Mayor V. Rumsey read the results of the survey, then gave her personal suggestion of eliminating Zoom. She noted that if someone wants to have a discussion, they should come to the meeting. She also noted she doesn’t want anyone to deal with what she had to deal with when a resident had an outburst directed at her. She suggested not eliminating it immediately, but rather soon. Committeeman G. Scott agreed with her, stating he felt that if anyone had something to say to the Committee, they should do so in person. Committeeman D. Manser stated, due to the Township’s makeup of many older individuals who may be limited in their ability to get to meetings, he feels this isn’t something we can just get rid of. He stated he felt that Zoom is valuable to some people, so we should give them time to make other arrangements. Committeewoman L. Chammings stated she’s in favor of keeping Zoom exactly as it is, where the public can speak. She noted she doesn’t feel we should get rid of something we advertised and that the public should be able to participate. Mayor V. Rumsey inquired as to how long the Township had paid for Zoom, noting that Committeewoman L. Chammings was actually the one who paid for it, not the Township. Committeewoman L. Chammings noted that when Zoom began during COVID, the only way to pay was with a credit card. Since the Township had no way to pay, as the Township did not have a credit card, she did so. She also noted that she frequently uses the salary she receives for being on the Committee to acquire things for the benefit of the Township. Committeewoman L. Chammings stated that the Township spent a lot of money acquiring the equipment necessary to hold meetings over Zoom, citing specifically the “Owl” camera/microphone combo that she estimated to have cost approximately $2,000, and she feels it’s best to continue to use the purchased equipment. Deputy Mayor D. Delaney stated she wants to keep Zoom for viewing only; if anyone wants to say anything, then they should come to a meeting. Committeeman G. Scott stated he felt Zoom was good, but there needs to be some sort of control, and that people should have to come to the meetings to speak.

A MOTION was made by Mayor V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott to keep Zoom, but participants will remain muted.

Deputy Mayor D. Delaney suggested a discussion to make intentions clear before doing a roll call vote. Committeewoman L. Chammings suggested a Resolution be voted on at the next meeting and then questioned whether this would be only applicable to the Township Committee or if it would carry over to the other Boards and Commissions. Mayor V. Rumsey stated this would only be for the Township Committee.

Mayor V. Rumsey stated this would take effect at the next meeting, July 21, 2026. Deputy Mayor D. Delaney stated she felt we should give more notice. Committeewoman L. Chammings noted that we already advertised that the Township Committee will be using it for 2026, so we should continue to do so for the remainder of 2026 and switch to just viewing only effective January 1, 2027.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Deputy Mayor D. Delaney to keep Zoom for viewing purposes only, noting Zoom participants will have to remain muted, effective January 1, 2027, specifically for the Township Committee.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, and Mayor V. Rumsey; abstain. Motion carried forward.

4. Draft Ordinance for Short–Term Rentals

Mayor V. Rumsey noted this is just for discussion; there is no Ordinance number or anything at this time. She stated that Tammy Horsefield, from the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce, spoke at a recent Planning Board meeting and made the Township aware of just how much money they’re leaving on the table. It was noted that the Township can collect a registration fee and tax. Township Attorney E. Bernstein stated his office will take a look at it and add it to the July meeting for discussion.

OPEN PUBLIC SESSION

Township Resident E. Macovitch thanked the Township Committee for listening to the public’s comments and concerns.

Public Session Closed.

ATTORNEY’S REPORT

Attorney E. Bernstein stated that the governing body held an Executive Session this evening to discuss DPW Personnel and an employee in the Town Hall who was given a RICE Notice. No formal action needs to be taken on either item.

BILLS LIST #11 $ 615,342.76

RESOLUTION 2026–113 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 June 19, 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 2026–113, funds permitting.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, and Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried forward.

RESOLUTION 2026–114

MAYOR’S APPOINTMENT OF TYLER CROWLEY AS A MEMBER OF THE STILLWATER AREA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT WITH COMMITTEE CONCURRENCE

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater do hereby concur with the Mayor’s appointment of Tyler Crowley as a Member of the Stillwater Area Volunteer Fire Department.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Mayor V. Rumsey, to adopt Resolution 2026–114.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser; yes, Deputy Mayor D. Delaney; yes, Committeewoman L. Chammings; yes, Committeeman G. Scott; yes, and Mayor V. Rumsey; yes. Motion carried forward.

ADJOURNMENT

A MOTION was made with all members in favor, to adjourn the meeting at 9:42 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Julie Ann Leatham

DeputyTownship Clerk

VIEW THE 2026 ADOPTED BUDGET

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June 16, 2026 Meeting Minutes

Departments

Government

VIEW THE 2026 ADOPTED BUDGET