STILLWATER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING
June 22, 2021 Regular Meeting
A REGULAR MEETING of the Stillwater Township Committee was called to order by Mayor Chammings at 7:07 p.m. noting the meeting date was sent, time and place to the New Jersey Herald and posted at the Town Hall on the official Stillwater Township website and Facebook page and advised those present that this meeting was being held in compliance with provisions of P.L. 1975, Chapter 231, Sections 4 & 13. Mayor Chammings added the meeting was being held virtually on Zoom and this meeting was also advertised with the link in the New Jersey Herald, the Stillwater Township website (www.stillwatertownshipnj.com) on the Stillwater Township Face Book page. PRESENT: Committeewoman Rumsey, Committeeman Barta, Deputy Mayor Scott, Committeeman Fisher, Mayor Chammings, Municipal Clerk Lynda Knott and Attorney Angelo Bolcato ABSENT: None
EXECUTIVE SESSION: 6:30 p.m. held in Town Hall
After the reading of the following Resolution to enter into Executive Session, a motion was made by Mr. Scott, seconded by Mr. Fisher and carried by roll call vote to adopt the resolution permitting the Committee to go into Executive Session at 6:07 p.m.
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 and 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.
By a motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey, seconded by Mr. Scott to conclude Executive Session at 7:05p.m., unanimously carried by voice vote.
Roll Call was taken and the flag was saluted.
MINUTES: June 4, 2021 Regular and Executive Session Minutes
A motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey to adopt the regular and executive minutes of June 4, 2021, seconded by Mr. Barta. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher abstained, Mayor Chammings, yes.
REPORTS: DPW Report of May 2021
Building Department Report of May 2021
Registrar’s Report of May 2021
Recreation Commission Report of May 2021
Sussex County Board of Health Report May 2021
Convenience Center Report of May 2021
Fire Department Report Year-To-Date
Mr. Fisher asked why he has not seen the tax collector reports for the last few months. The clerk said the tax collector gave her the reports but asked not to have them presented until the CFO finishes reconciling the bank statements and they know their numbers match.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt the reports as presented, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
BILLS LIST #10: $702,034.36
RESOLUTION 2021-084 Authorizing Payment of Bills
WHEREAS, the Chief Finance Officer has certified that funds are available in the proper account; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Finance 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 22, 2021 and on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Chief Finance Officer and approved by the Chief Finance Officer for payment, be paid.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt the Resolution 2021-084, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Mr. Scott reported the DPW has been busy and he attend the Recreation Commission meeting held at Volunteer Park. Mayor Chammings noted when she arrived the group was having a discussion regarding the application of fertilizer and pesticides with proper notification and information. Mayor Chammings added the DPW Supervisor has been requesting quotes from bona fide vendors with the necessary certifications.
Mr. Fisher had no update on the Crandon Lakes potential access road.
Mr. Barta had no report because the Planning Board Meeting was cancelled.
Mrs. Rumsey said the Stillwater Board of Education had a very short meeting to hire a part-time employee. Mrs. Rumsey said she has heard a lot of parents are unhappy with the bills received from the school regarding the chrome books their children had been using for virtual learning and she feels that issue will be discussed at the next school board meeting.
Mrs. Rumsey read the Fire Department Report in Chief Sugars absence:
Good Afternoon Stillwater Township Committee,
I would like to apologize for my absence as this is the first Township Committee meeting I have to miss since I became Chief of the Department. I unfortunately have to work at 7pm tomorrow night as I did not anticipate the change in date for this meeting. As of 1353 hours Monday June 21st Stillwater Fire and EMS has been dispatched to 200 EMS calls and 82 Fire calls year to date. Ambulance 42-53 went in for service and had some minor air leaks repaired and the two main batteries replaced which were under warranty. All apparatus is currently in service. We have our Golf Outing coming up this Friday and our annual roadside fund drive coming up next month. I would like to Congratulate Committeeman Paul Barta on to the Township Committee and look forward to working well with him and the entire Committee going forward as we have in the past. If you have any questions, please reach out to me and have a great meeting.
Mrs. Rumsey reported the Community Center is very active with scout meetings, PTA meetings, dinner dances etc.
Mrs. Rumsey said the public safety meetings will resume monthly now and will be touching base with CERT Coordinator Marcia Brandley to schedule.
Mayor Chammings reported LACE had used the community center for their dinner dance and gave a donation to the Recreation Commission for the use of the building even though the building was used free of charge for the non-profit. Mayor Chammings read the thank you note into the record:
Stillwater Recreation,
This donation is a thank you for letting the LACE Program use the Community Center for our end of semesters (we have been virtual since March 2020) party. This is the first time we will be together since we and the rest of our world pivoted so quickly last year. This donation is not from me personally – it is from SCCC but had to run it this way.
Sincerely,
Patti Nugent
Mayor Chammings reported the Environmental Commission met in person this month. It was the first time back in person since the onset of the pandemic. The Zoning and Planning Boards will also meet in person in July.
The Cross-River Fiber resolution has been tabled to the July 20, 2021 meeting and resolution 2021-092 renewing the liquor licenses has been added.
OPEN PUBLIC SESSION:
Mr. Joseph Doherty, 943 Old School House Road, read the following statement into the record:
I have prepared a statement that I want to present to this committee and have it become a part of the record. I have chosen this means of conveyance as I believe it allows one to gather and deliver their thoughts in a clear, concise and timely manner. I am concerned about the condition of the property located at 947 Old Schoolhouse Road. As you know, hundreds of trees were taken down to make way for a home to be built on the site along with a farm-like environments, with 4-H involvement . . . . at least that is what Dennis Tuohy, the present or former owner as the case may be, told his neighbors. However, he soon got outta dodge and broke for the border, crossing into Pennsylvania to begin a new life in the Keystone State.
Tree stumps have littered the landscape for something now and are an assault on ones’ sense of sight. They should be removed immediately and new trees planted in their place to help heal the scars inflicted upon the land by a scheming, insensitive and profiteering varlet.
To compound the problem there is a plan afoot by what appears to be a commercial enterprise, to build a hemp cultivating and processing facility on the site, right in the middle of a residential zoned neighborhood. Such a move would have an adverse effect on property values, create an alien atmosphere that would include, but not be limited to, noise and air pollution, to say nothing of the severe strain it would place on a precious natural resource …water? This must not be allowed! As you know, the peoples’ representatives, be they elected or appointed, have a duty and obligation to act on behalf of its citizens and do what is in the best interest of the community. Please do the right thing!
Mr. Louis Zack, 943 Old School House Road, also expressed his concerns regarding the property on 947 Old School Road. Mr. Zack feels a marijuana/hemp farm will affect the quality of life – especially because these types of businesses require being lit all night and 24/7-armed security. Mr. Zack said it will bring an element of danger to our community. Mr. Zack asked the township committee for their position on this matter.
Mr. Louis Sylvester, 945 Old School House Road, asked the township committee for the status of the complaint filed in April by himself and two neighbors. Mayor Chammings answered the Soil Conservation permit expires on June 26, 2021 and they would address the issue then. Mr. Sylvester stated Soil Conservation is not concerned with the tree removal only soil disturbance. Mr. Sylvester said he feels very disappointed and disrespected the township committee. He noted the township has not even had an inspection of the property and feels the governing body really does not care.
Mr. Scott said the township committee cares very much but must follow the legal path and not act like vigilantes and they will get to the bottom of the issue.
Mr. Stanley Zeveney, 948 Old Schoolhouse Road, said he was eager for a resolution on the condition of 947 Old School House Road and upset it had not yet been taken care of. Mr. Zeveney noted he realizes the old owners have no responsibility to clean up the property now but that is why they came three months ago.
Mr. Cain Leahy, 947 Old Schoolhouse Road, reiterated his concerns as the next-door neighbor with the shared driveway. He also told that he had gone to the NJ State Police with a concern the new neighbor damaged the shared driveway and was told to sell his house.
Mrs. Rumsey said until the new owner comes to townhall to file an application there is nothing the township committee or any township board can do to either allow or deny the new owner’s plan for that property.
Kathy Draghi, 1016 County Route 619 asked if there will be any new discussion regarding the adoption of ordinance 2021-05. Mayor Chammings said the public hearing on the ordinance was already held and it was on the agenda tonight for a revote to correct an administrative error in the adoption process.
Seeing no one from the public who wished to speak this portion of the meeting was closed.
OLD BUSINESS:
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Update on 992 Fairview Lake road (block 2401 Lot 37) Mayor Chammings said there is no update tonight the township is still awaiting paperwork from the State.
ORDINANCE 2021-05 BOND ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $1,376,000, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $767,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP, FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS OR PURPOSES AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY Adoption
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two-thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS:
IMPROVEMENT OR PURPOSE | APPROPRIATION AND ESTIMATED COST |
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF BONDS AND NOTES |
(a) Acquisition, by purchase, of new and additional vehicular equipment for use by the Department of Public Works of the Township, including one (1) dump truck, together with all appurtenances, apparatus and accessories necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved, the $90,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $15,000 hereby appropriated therefor from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose | 90,000 | 71,200 |
(b) Improvement of Old Foundry Road (Phase II) in and by the Township by the construction or reconstruction therein of a roadway pavement at least equal in useful life or durability to a roadway pavement of Class B construction (as used or referred to in Section 40A:2-22 of said Local Bond Law), together with all sidewalks, curbing, structures, appurtenances, milling, drainage improvements, equipment, work and materials necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the plans and specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved, the $350,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $151,300 received or expected to be received by the Township from the New Jersey Department of Transportation as a grant-in-aid of financing said improvement, the amount of $45,000 for said purpose hereby appropriated therefor from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose and the amount of $82,000 hereby appropriated therefor from the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township | 350,000 | 68,100 |
(c) Acquisition by purchase of new and additional equipment for use by the Department of Public Works of the Township, including one (1) backhoe, together with all attachments, appurtenances and equipment necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved. the $111,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $25,000 received or expected to be received by the Township as a Clean Communities grant-in-aid of financing said improvement | 111,000 | 81,500 |
(d) Acquisition by purchase of new firefighting equipment for the preservation of life and property in the Township, including one (1) rescue pumper truck for use by the Fire Department of the Township, together with all equipment, attachments and accessories necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved, the $825,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $250,000 hereby appropriated therefor from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose | 825,000 | 546,200 |
Totals | $1,376,000 | $767,000 |
publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by said Local Bond Law.
A discussion was held as to why there is only one ordinance combining all capital items to be bonded and not separate ordinance. The ordinance appropriates the funding and then individual resolutions are adopted to purchase each item separately.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt the Ordinance 2021-05 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, no, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes. The Ordinance was not adopted.
Mayor Chammings said she is very disappointed in the ordinance being voted down and that a lot of time, energy and work was put into each item including the fire truck. Mayor Chammings said she spoke to the CFO and should Ordinance 2021-05 be voted down she would like to bifurcate the ordinance and introduce two new ordinances splitting the DPW items and the firetruck.
Mrs. Rumsey apologized to the fire department and the truck committee in particular. She noted the moral of the fire department personnel is very low now and they give 110 percent and run to events others run away from and not getting this truck is devastating.
Mr. Barta gave his reasoning for not voting for the fire truck. Mr. Barta said he did his homework and spoke to all parties involved on all the items contained in the ordinance including the DPW, the Stillwater Fire Department, other municipalities’ CFOs, fire chiefs etc. Mr. Barta also noted the Stillwater Fire Department wants to keep the 98 pumper and he was told it had a good five to seven years of service before it would need to be replaced. Mr. Barta suggested selling the two Swartswood fire trucks and purchasing another front-line pumper to make two – one for each side of town and then save and fundraise for the next five to seven years and purchase a rescue pumper then. Mr. Barta stressed the fire department did nothing wrong they followed the direction the governing body gave them.
Mrs. Rumsey stated the fire department would get rid of the two trucks as requested.
Mr. Fisher added the fire company was given a dollar amount to spend and they overspent by $200,000.00.
Mayor Chammings said at this time she would like to bifurcate the current defunct ordinance and introduce two new ordinances separating the DPW equipment from the fire truck.
ORDINANCE 2021-10 BOND ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $551,000, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $220,800 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP, FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS OR PURPOSES AUTHORIZED TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY- Introduction [Public Hearing and Adoption 7/20/21]
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two-thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS:
IMPROVEMENT OR PURPOSE | APPROPRIATION AND ESTIMATED COST |
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF BONDS AND NOTES |
(a) Acquisition, by purchase, of new and additional vehicular equipment for use by the Department of Public Works of the Township, including one (1) dump truck, together with all appurtenances, apparatus and accessories necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved, the $90,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $15,000 hereby appropriated therefor from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose | 90,000 | 71,200 |
(b) Improvement of Old Foundry Road (Phase II) in and by the Township by the construction or reconstruction therein of a roadway pavement at least equal in useful life or durability to a roadway pavement of Class B construction (as used or referred to in Section 40A:2-22 of said Local Bond Law), together with all sidewalks, curbing, structures, appurtenances, milling, drainage improvements, equipment, work and materials necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the plans and specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved, the $350,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $151,300 received or expected to be received by the Township from the New Jersey Department of Transportation as a grant-in-aid of financing said improvement, the amount of $45,000 for said purpose hereby appropriated therefor from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose and the amount of $82,000 hereby appropriated therefor from the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township | 350,000 | 68,100 |
(c) Acquisition by purchase of new and additional equipment for use by the Department of Public Works of the Township, including one (1) backhoe, together with all attachments, appurtenances and equipment necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved. the $111,000 appropriation hereby made therefor being inclusive of the amount of $25,000 received or expected to be received by the Township as a Clean Communities grant-in-aid of financing said improvement | 111,000 | 81,500 |
Totals | $551,000 | $220,800 |
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2021-10 seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
ORDINANCE 2021-11 BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUSITION OF A NEW FIRE TRUCK BY THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $825,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $546,200 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP FOR FINANCING SUCH APPROPRIATION. Introduction [Public Hearing and Adoption 7/20/21]
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two‑thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS:
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2021-11 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-083 RESOLUTION URGING THE LEGISLATURE AND GOVERNOR TO ENACT A LAW BANNING SINGLE USE PLASTIC AND PAPER BAGS
WHEREAS, it is estimated that a person will use five hundred single use disposable bags per year; and
WHEREAS, over four billion single use bags are used annually in the State of New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, single use plastic bags pose an environmental hazard to the local, state, and global environment as they are often improperly discarded and end up in waterways or on land where they are mistaken as food by marine and land-based animals; and
WHEREAS, single use plastic bags have a low percentage rate of recycling; and
WHEREAS, single use paper bags also have a negative environmental impact and are a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change; and
WHEREAS, paper bag manufacturing is a resource-intensive process whose overall carbon footprint is comparable to, or more significant than, plastic bag manufacturing when one factors in water and air pollutants, energy use, deforestation, diesel emissions and solid waste disposal; and
WHEREAS, due to the weight and volume of single use paper bags, it requires seven times the resources to transport paper bags as compared to plastic bags; and
WHEREAS, paper bags do not decompose in landfills and it takes a significant amount of energy and chemicals to properly recycle paper bags; and
WHEREAS, some municipal governments across New Jersey are enacting competing ordinances to address consumer reliance on single use plastic and paper bags; and
WHEREAS, this municipal action has created a patchwork of regulations across the state which has made it difficult and confusing for consumers to shop and businesses to operate in multiple municipalities; and
WHEREAS, other states including California, New York, and Connecticut have adopted laws regarding the regulation of plastic and paper bags;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY STILLWATER TOWNSHIP:
That a copy of this resolution be sent to the Office of the Governor, the President of the New Jersey State Senate, the Speaker of the New Jersey General
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-083 seconded by Mr. Barta. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, no, Mrs. Rumsey, abstained, Mr. Scott, no, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
NEW BUSINESS:
ORDINANCE 2021-08 ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER AMENDING CHAPTER 289 OF THE TOWNSHIP CODE, ENTITLED “PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS” TO INCLUDE A NEW SECTION 289-8 ENTITLED “TEMPORARY LIGHTING” [Introduction – Public Hearing and Adoption July 20, 2021]
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater has adopted Chapter 289 of the Code of the Township of Stillwater entitled “Parks and Recreation Areas”; and
WHEREAS, the Township Committee desires to amend Chapter 289 in order to address requests for the use of temporary lights at the athletic fields located at Veterans Park.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Stillwater Township Committee, Sussex County, New Jersey, that a new Section 289-8 is adopted as set forth herein:
SECTION 1. A new Section 289-8, “Temporary Lighting” is adopted as follows:
289-8 Temporary Lighting
Sports teams or organizations that have obtained approval from the Stillwater Township Recreation Commission to use an athletic field(s) at Veterans Park may also submit a written request to the Recreation Commission for approval for such team or organization to provide and use temporary lighting at Veteran’s Memorial Park. The request must include information regarding the number and type of lights, as well as the type of generator that it will use to power the lights. The Township of Stillwater will not supply electricity for the lights. If approved such team and/or organization is responsible for supplying its own lighting equipment and generators to power such lights, and shall secure the lights and generators in order that they cannot be operated by anyone other than authorized team or organization personnel. The lights and generators shall be stored at such locations as directed by the Recreation Commission, and the team or organization is responsible for any damage or theft of the lights and generators, the Township of Stillwater assumes no responsibility for such items. The team or organization shall also provide proof of insurance for the lighting and generators as well as liability insurance in such amounts as determined by the Township Committee and its risk manager. Additionally, all lights and generators must be shut off no later than 8:00pm. The team or organization shall also sign such indemnification and hold harmless agreements as may be required by the Recreation Commission and the Township of Stillwater.
SECTION 2 – SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 3 – REPEALER
All ordinances or parts of ordinances or resolutions that are inconsistent or in opposition to the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION 4: EFFECTIVE DATE
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2021-08 seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
ORDINANCE 2021-09 ORDINANCE AMENDING SALARY ORDINANCE 2021-07 [Introduction – Public Hearing and Adoption July 20, 2021]
WHEREAS, the Stillwater Township CFO recommended changing salaries from a specific amount to a range; and
WHEREAS, the Stillwater Township Committee agrees with the CFO’s recommendation; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater in the County of Sussex, New Jersey as follows:
Section 1. The Township of Stillwater shall pay its municipal officers and employees for services rendered as shown below. Figures shown represent annual salary, unless otherwise noted.
POSITION
File Clerk $12.00 to $18.00 Range
Section 2. Specific salaries or wages established by this Ordinance shall be made retroactive to January 1, 2020 unless otherwise noted.
Section 3. Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed as making mandatory the payment of annual salary increments to any officer or employees of the Township of Stillwater. Salary or wage increases shall be contingent upon availability of the funds.
Section 4. All former ordinances or parts therof conflicting or inconsistent with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 5. This ordinance shall take effect after publication and passage according to law.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2021-09 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-085 Amending the 2021 Budget (to include the 2021 Clean Communities Grant)
WHEREAS, N.J.S. 40A:4-87 provides that the Director of the Division of Local Government Services may approve the insertion of any special item of revenue in the budget of any county or municipality when such item shall have been made available by law and the amount thereof was not determined at the time of the adoption of the budget, and
WHEREAS, said Director may also approve the insertion of an item of appropriation for an equal amount, and
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater has received a total of $15,788.88 from the Solid Waste Administration for the 2021 Clean Communities Grant, and
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater now wishes to amend its 2021 budget to include the additional grant funds approved of $15,788.88 as a revenue.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Committee of the Township of Stillwater does hereby request the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to approve the insertion of an item of revenue in the budget of the year 2021 in the sum of $15,788.88, which will be available as a revenue from:
Miscellaneous Revenues
Special Items of General Revenue Anticipated with Prior Written
Consent of the Director of Local Government Services – Public
And Private Revenues Offset with Appropriations: 2021 Clean Communities Grant, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a like sum of…………………………$15,788.88
be and the same is hereby appropriated under the caption of:
General Appropriations
2021 Clean Communities Grant, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chief Financial Officer submit one copy of the Chapter 159 certification form to the Director of Local Government Services.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-085 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-086 Approving a grant application and executing a grant contract with the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the Mt. Benevolence Road – Section 1 project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Council of Stillwater formally approves the grant application for the above stated project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to submit an electronic grant application identified as MA-2022-Mt Benevolence road, Section I-00325 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation on behalf of the Township of Stillwater.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the grant agreement on behalf of Township of Stillwater and that their signature constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of the grant agreement approves the execution of the grant agreement.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-086 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-088 Appointing Dawn Tighe Full Time Clerk 1
WHEREAS, the full-time Principal Clerk Typist is retiring on July 31, 2021 the Stillwater Township Committee determined the need to replace the full-time Principal Clerk Typist; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater hereby appoint Dawn Tighe as full-time Clerk 1 effective Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at a rate of $23.60 per hour.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-088 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-089 Mayor’s Appointment of Alicia Gardner as Part-Time Receptionist with Committee Concurrence
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of
Stillwater do hereby appoint Alicia Gardner as part-time Receptionist effective Tuesday,
July 6, 2021 at a rate of $18.00 per hour.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-089 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-090 Mayor’s Appointment of Beth Martin as Part-Time File Clerk with Committee Concurrence
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of
Stillwater do hereby appoint Beth Martin as part-time File Clerk effective Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at the rate of $12.00 per hour
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-090 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-091 Authorizing Payment of Redemption – Block 1001 Lot 36
WHEREAS, on DECEMBER 11, 2019 Gisela Rutnik, Collector
Of Taxes sold at public sale Tax Lien for delinquent municipal lien on premises known as
Block 1001 Lot 36 to SAMANTHA WORTH 54 WEST OWASSA TPKE, NEWTON ,NEW JERSEY
WHEREAS, the Collector has received redemption of said lien on JUNE 7, 2021
And has deposited said sum in the current account of the Township of STILLWATER,TOWNSHIP
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of
STILLWATER
1. As soon thereafter as the redemption funds have cleared the current account, payment shall
Be made to the holder of the Certificate of Sale in the sum of 17, 037.24
There was also a Premium paid in the amount of $0.00 to be added to the certificate holder,
Provided the holder shall surrender the Certificate of Sale and comply with all laws relating thereto.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-091 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-092
WHEREAS, THE Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey, pursuant to the authority vested in it by an act of Legislature, has heretofore by ordinance, provided for the sale of alcoholic beverage in the Township of Stillwater; and
WHEREAS, the following named Liquor License holder has filed an application for the license renewal and the Municipal Clerk has received the Tax Clearance Certificate for this establishment and all fees have been paid.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following liquor license known as Plenary Retail Consumption License be granted renewal for the period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022.
LICENSE NUMBER LICENSEE AND ADDRESS
1920-33-003-002 Stillwater Area Volunteer Fire Company
929 Stillwater Road
Newton, New Jersey 07875
1920-33-010-003 North Shore House, LLC
P. O. Box 167, 912, Route 622 Swartswood Road
Stillwater, New Jersey 07875
1920-33-006-007 Hyde-Away Restaurant & Tap Room LLC
901 Route 521
Stillwater Township, NJ
1920-44-008-004 Main Street Liquors, LLC
P. O. Box 123, 906 Main Street
Stillwater, New Jersey 07875
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Township Clerk is hereby authorized to issue the License herein granted, the same effective as provided by Law.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-092 seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher no, Mayor Chammings, yes.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Town Hall Re-opening: Mr. Scott wished to revisit the town hall opening because he has received complaints that not all employees are back in townhall for their full hours. mayor Chammings said at the last meeting the township committee decided to allow the employees who worked 20% remotely continue the remote work until September 7, 2021. Mr. Fisher feels all employees should be back in townhall now. Mayor Chammings noted the township purchased lap-tops with VPNs so employees could work from home. Mr. Bolcato read from the minutes of the previous meeting when all in attendance voted to allow the work from home until September 7, 2021.
Green Acres Funding: Although it may be too late to put together a project for 2021 Mayor Chammings will look at the website to see
OPEN PUBLIC SESSION
Steven Sugar, Fire Chief, continued the discussion regarding the Seagrave Fire Truck. Mr. Ross from Seagrave will be invited to the July 22, 2021 meeting to answer questions from the township committee and interested residents.
Kathy Draghi, 1016 County Road 619, voiced her concerns the fire department reports are a year-to-date count of calls and there was no indication of how many calls were in Stillwater versus calls answered on behalf of the tripod.
Sam Wykoff, President of the Swartswood Lake and Watershed Association, introduced Kathleen Marshall, VP and Randy their in-house expert and reported the Association would be holding a picnic on the Saturday of Garage Sale Weekend (7/17/21) for their members and any interested residents who would like to know more about the Association. Randy also reported the SLWA has received two federal grants for the watershed – one to inspect, access, repair and upgrade the aerators in Swartswood Lake. The Association would also like to get the correct information about hazardous harmful algal bloom (HAB) to the public.
Kathleen Marshall also announced (on behalf of Marcia Bradley – Stillwater CERT Coordinator) that CERT is currently recruiting new members and Frankford and Hampton Townships now have CERT teams. Mrs. Bradley is working with Fredon to establish a CERT team in that township.
Mayor Chammings noted a piece of business was not previously discussed – a LOSAP payment had previously been credited to the wrong member in the same family and the Township Committee needed to approve the CFO’s plan to correct the situation.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to pay the Junior their LOSAP and for the III to pay back the funds deposited in his account in error in an agreement prepared by the CFO, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Barta, yes, Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
ATTORNEY’S REPORT – Mr. Bolcato had nothing further to report.
There being no further business to attend to, a motion was made by Mr. Scott, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey to conclude the meeting at 08:55 p.m., unanimously carried by roll call vote.
Respectfully submitted,
Lynda Knott, Township Clerk
Stillwater Township offers residents a Recycling and Convenience Center for household trash and recycling.
Residents are able to view property tax information and make payments through the online system. You may find a property by entering the property’s location or block, lot and qualifier.
Stillwater Township posts all information about bids and proposals for township projects on a dedicated page.
The Stillwater Rec Summer Camp will be August 12-16 and August 19-23, 2024
Visit the Office of Emergency Management page for links and the latest information