STILLWATER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING
April 6, 2021 – Regular Meeting
A REGULAR MEETING of the Stillwater Township Committee was called to order by Mayor Chammings at 7:00 p.m. noting the meeting date, time and place were duly published in the New Jersey Herald and posted at the Town Hall 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 Morrison, Deputy Mayor Scott, Mayor Chammings, Municipal Clerk Lynda Knott and Attorney Angelo Bolcato ABSENT: Committeeman Fisher
EXECUTIVE SESSION: 6:40 p.m. held in Town Hall
After the reading of the following Resolution to enter into Executive Session, a motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey, seconded by Mr. Scott and carried by roll call vote to adopt the resolution permitting the Committee to go into Executive Session at 6:40 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, Contract, 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 Mr. Scott, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey to suspend the Executive Session at 6:59 p.m., unanimously carried by voice vote.
Roll Call was taken and the flag was saluted.
2021 BUDGET Introduction [Public Hearing and adoption May 4, 2021]
Budget Discussion: Valerie Dolan, CPA and Tammy Leonard, CFO
Mrs. Dolan noted Stillwater Township was in its three-year cycle for its budget to be reviewed by the State. Mrs. Dolan said the township could still have its public hearing on May 4th and hopefully the State will have given the township approval to adopt by then. Mrs. Dolan noted the budget is a good responsible budget with a small increase of $36 per average ($205,000.00 home value) household. The budget was supplemented by using $990,000 of its surplus. Mr. Morrison asked when encumbered purchases become a payable for the township. Mrs. Dolan said when they are actually paid for. Mayor Chammings thanked Mrs. Dolan and Mrs. Leonard for all their hard work on the 2021 budget.
Resolution 2021-046 Introduction of the 2021 Municipal Budget
BE IT RESOLVED that the attached Statements of Revenues and Appropriations shall constitute the Municipal Budget for the 2021 calendar year; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a Summary of said Budget shall be published in The New Jersey Herald on April 22, 2021 and the public hearing and final adoption shall be held on May 4, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building at which time and place objections to the 2020 Municipal Budget may be presented by taxpayers or other persons of interest.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-046, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
PROCLAMATION: April to be National Child Abuse Prevention Month
The Stillwater Township Committee is committed to support prevention services that help protect children and produce thriving families. Mayor Chammings read the following proclamation into the record.
WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect is a complex and ongoing problem in our society, affecting many children in Sussex County, and
WHEREAS, every child is entitled to be love, cared for, nurtured, feel secure and be free from verbal, sexual, emotional and physical abuse and neglect; and
WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect not only directly harms children, but also increases the likelihood of criminal behavior, substance abuse, health problems, and risky behavior; and
WHEREAS, the effects of child abuse are felt by communities as a whole and need to be addressed by the entire community; and
WHEREAS effective child abuse prevention programs succeed because of partnerships among families, social service agencies, schools, religious and civic organizations, law enforcement agencies and the business community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater does hereby proclaim April 2021 as
Child Abuse Prevention Month
And calls upon all citizens, community agencies, faith groups, medical facilities, and businesses to increase their participation in our efforts to support families, thereby preventing child abuse and strengthening the communities in which we live.
MINUTES
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt the March 2, 2021 Regular and Executive Session Minutes, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, abstained, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt the March 16, 2021 Regular and Executive Session Minutes, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt the March 22, 2021 Special Meeting Minutes, seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
BILLS LIST #5: $933,396.02
RESOLUTION 2021-047 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 April 6, 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 Resolution 2021-047, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Mr. Scott reported the DPW are busy cutting brush and getting Old Foundry Road ready to be re-done.
Mr. Scott said the Recreation Commission met last evening and gave the highlights: Stillwater Day is cancelled for 2021 due to COVID. There is a plant exchanged scheduled for Saturday, May 15, 2021 from 10-2 (rain date is 5/16/21) at the community center. Mr. Scott noted Mrs. Delaney, Chair of the Recreation Commission was in attendance and asked if she had anything else to add. Mrs. Delaney said although Stillwater Day is cancelled there will be a Miss Stillwater contest to be held on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. A discussion was also held regarding the different sheds at the field and determine who they belong to. Mrs. Delaney also noted Stillwater Clean-Up Day was this Saturday, April 10, 2021 beginning at 9:00 a.m. Mrs. Delaney said there was a great turn-out this year with 12 groups signed up to participate.
Mr. Scott reported the Planning Board meeting for March was cancelled.
Mr. Fisher was not in attendance but the clerk noted she spoke with Mr. Simmons from Harold Pellow and Associates and they have not surveyed the area where the township hopes to put in an emergency egress road in Crandon Lakes. Mayor Chammings will be sending Mr. Bolcato information on the area so Mr. Bolcato can ensure Stillwater owns the land where this road will be constructed.
Mrs. Rumsey reported the Stillwater BOE met remotely and the feasibility study to regionalize schools has been tabled. Mrs. Rumsey also reported the children participated in “Hearts for Hope” where they personalized rocks and gave them to nurses and other health care professionals. Mrs. Rumsey also noted the State may suspend standardized testing for 2021.
Mrs. Rumsey noted the bathroom at the community center is still not completed and the roof is leaking. Mr. Paul Hawkins of the Stillwater DPW said he was on the roof and the roof will be patched but the condition of the roof indicates the roof really needs to be replaced. Quotes will be solicited for the roof.
Mrs. Rumsey said she has not heard from Mr. Fisher so she will be scheduling a public safety meeting.
Mr. Morrison has no report.
Mayor Chammings reported Stillwater Township’s COVID positivity rate has been increasing and the numbers are larger than in November. The County as a whole is back to orange status (high) and on the brink of red status. If the County reaches the red status schools will have to revert to on line learning.
Mayor Chammings reported the draft OEM Mitigation Plan is available on the Sussex County website for public comment. The clerk will put a link on the Stillwater website.
Mayor Chammings said the technology update in the meeting room is complete and asked the clerk to send a thank you to Mr. Wright for all his help.
Mayor Chammings reported the Zoning Board of Adjustment had a long meeting. One of three applications was heard and the other two will be heard at the April 26, 2021 meeting.
AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA Resolution 2021-052 was added to the New Business section.
OPEN PUBLIC SESSION:
Seeing no one from the public who wished to speak this portion of the meeting was closed.
OLD BUSINESS:
Update on 992 Fairview Lake Road (Block 2401 Lot 37) – Mayor Chammings reported Applied Services was still investigating the DEP information. Now that the snow has melted Mayor Chammings, the Construction Official and Mr. Scott will walk the property. Mr. Scott said Congressman Josh Gottenheimer was at the property last week with one of the neighbors.
NEW BUSINESS:
ORDINANCE 2021-04 ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS OR PURPOSES TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AND APPROPRIATING $118,300 THEREFOR FROM MONEYS IN THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND OF THE TOWNSHIP. Introduction [Public Hearing and Adoption April 20, 2021]
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AS FOLLOWS:
The improvements or purposes described in Section 2 of this ordinance are hereby authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by The Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, and there is hereby appropriated therefor the sum of $118,300 from moneys available in the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township.
The improvements hereby authorized and the purposes for the financing of which the appropriation is made as provided in Section 1 of this ordinance are (a) the acquisition by purchase of new and additional equipment for use by various Township Departments including a mower, turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus, (b) the resurfacing of various roads and locations in and by the Township and (c) the upgrade of codification systems for the office of the Township Clerk, together with for all the aforeaid all equipment, work, materials, apparatus and appurtenances 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 capital budget or temporary capital budget of the Township is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency herewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing all detail of the amended capital budget or temporary capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, are on file with the Township Clerk and are available for public inspection.
This ordinance shall take effect after publication after final passage as provided by law.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2021-04, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
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- Introduction [Public Hearing and Adoption April 20, 2021
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:
The several improvements described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance are hereby respectively authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by The Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey. For the said several improvements or purposes stated in said Section 3, there are hereby appropriated the respective sums of money therein stated as the appropriations made for said improvements or purposes, said sums being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefor and amounting in the aggregate to $1,376,000 including the aggregate sum of $40,700 as the several down payments for said improvements or purposes required by law and more particularly described in said Section 3 and now available therefor by virtue of provision in a previously adopted budget or budgets of the Township for down payment or for capital improvement purposes and including also, (i) in the case of the improvement or purpose described in paragraph (a) of said Section 3, the sum of $15,000 from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose, (ii) in the case of the improvement of purpose described in paragraph (b) of said Section 3, the sum 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 or purpose, the sum of $45,000 from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose and the sum of $82,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund of the Township, (iii) in the case of the improvement of purpose described in paragraph (c) of said Section 3, the sum of $25,000 received or expected to be received by the Township as a Clean Communities grant-in-aid of financing said improvement or purpose and (iv) in the case of the improvement or purpose described in paragraph (d) of said Section 3, the sum of $250,000 from a Reserve held by the Township for said purpose.
For the financing of said improvements or purposes and to meet the part of said $1,376,000 appropriations not provided for by application hereunder of said down payments, grants, Reserves and other available funds, negotiable bonds of the Township are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of $767,000 pursuant to the Local Bond Law of New Jersey. In anticipation of the issuance of said bonds and to temporarily finance said improvements or purposes, negotiable notes of the Township in a principal amount not exceeding $767,000 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
The improvements hereby authorized and the several purposes for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued, the appropriation made for and estimated cost of each such purpose, and the estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for each such purpose, are respectively 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 |
Except as otherwise stated in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) above with respect to the said $176,300 grants, the $310,000 Reserves and the $82,000 CIF funds, the excess of the appropriation made for each of the improvements or purposes aforesaid over the estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued therefor, as above stated, is the amount of the said down payment for said purpose.
The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:
The said purposes described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance are not current expenses and each is a property or improvement which the Township may lawfully acquire or make as a general improvement, and no part of the cost thereof has been or shall be specially assessed on property specially benefited thereby.
The average period of usefulness of said purposes within the limitations of said Local Bond Law and taking into consideration the respective amounts of the said obligations authorized for the several purposes, according to the reasonable life thereof computed from the date of the said bonds authorized by this bond ordinance, is 10.06 years.
The supplemental debt statement required by said Local Bond Law has been duly made and filed in the office of the Township Clerk and a complete executed duplicate thereof has been filed in the office of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey, and such statement shows that the gross debt of the Township as defined in said Local Bond Law is increased by the authorization of the bonds and notes provided for in this bond ordinance by $767,000, and the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
Amounts not exceeding $100,000 in the aggregate for interest on said obligations, costs of issuing said obligations, engineering costs and other items of expense listed in and permitted under Section 40A:2-20 of said Local Bond Law may be included as part of the costs of said improvements and are included in the foregoing estimate thereof.
The funds from time to time received by the Township on account of the $176,300 grants referred to in Section 1 of this bond ordinance shall be used for financing the improvements or purposes described in paragraphs (b) and (d) of Section 3 of this bond ordinance by application thereof either to direct payment of the costs of said improvements or purposes, or to payment or reduction of the authorization of the obligations of the Township authorized therefor by this bond ordinance. Any such funds so received may, and all such funds so received which are not required for direct payment of the costs of said improvements or purposes shall, be held and applied by the Township as funds applicable only to the payment of obligations of the Township authorized by this bond ordinance.
All bond anticipation notes issued hereunder shall mature at such times as may be determined by the chief financial officer, acting chief financial officer or treasurer (the “Chief Financial Officer”), provided that no note shall mature later than one year from its date. The notes shall bear interest at such rate or rates and be in such form as may be determined by the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer shall determine all matters in connection with the notes issued pursuant to this bond ordinance, and the Chief Financial Officer’s signature upon the notes shall be conclusive evidence as to all such determinations. All notes issued hereunder may be renewed from time to time subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:2-8. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to sell part or all of the notes from time to time at public or private sale at not less than par and to deliver them to the purchasers thereof upon receipt of payment of the purchase price plus accrued interest from their dates to the dates of delivery thereof. The Chief Financial Officer is directed to report in writing to the governing body of the Township at the meeting next succeeding the date when any sale or delivery of the notes pursuant to this bond ordinance is made. Such report must include the principal amount, interest rate and maturities of the notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser.
The full faith and credit of the Township are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance. Said obligations shall be direct, unlimited obligations of the Township, and the Township shall be obligated to levy ad valorem taxes upon all the taxable property within the Township for the payment of said obligations and interest thereon without limitation of rate or amount.
The capital budget or temporary capital budget of the Township is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency herewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing all detail of the amended capital budget or temporary capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, are on file with the Township Clerk and are available for public inspection.
This bond ordinance shall take effect twenty (20) days after the first
publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by said Local Bond Law.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to introduce Ordinance 2021-05 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-048 Approving Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Fiscal Grant Cycle FY2022
WHEREAS, the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse established the Municipal Alliances for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse in 1989 to educate and engage residents, local government and law enforcement officials, schools, nonprofit organizations, the faith community, parents, youth and other allies in efforts to prevent alcoholism and drug abuse in communities throughout New Jersey.
WHEREAS, The Township Council of the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey recognizes that the abuse of alcohol and drugs is a serious problem in our society amongst persons of all ages; and therefore has an established Municipal Alliance Committee; and,
WHEREAS, the Township Council further recognizes that it is incumbent upon not only public officials but upon the entire community to take action to prevent such abuses in our community; and,
WHEREAS, the Township Council has applied for funding to the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse through the County of Sussex;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey hereby recognizes the following:
The Township Council does hereby authorize submission of a strategic plan for the Stillwater Municipal Alliance grant for fiscal year 2022 in the amount of:
DEDR $ 1,511.00
Cash Match $ 377.75
In-Kind $ 1,133.25
The Township Council acknowledges the terms and conditions for administering the Municipal Alliance grant, including the administrative compliance and audit requirements.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-048 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-049 Approving the Sale of Four (4) lots at the Township of Stillwater’s Property Sale on March 16, 2021
APPROVING THE SALE OF FOUR (4) LOTS AT THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER’S PROPERTY SALE ON MARCH 16, 2021
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater conducted a sale of undersized lots owned by the Township of Stillwater and no longer needed for public use on March 16, 2021, pursuant to Ordinance 2021-02. The purpose of the sale was to sell the undersized lots to contiguous property owners in order that the lot being sold by the Township would merge with the property owner’s existing property; and
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater also conducted a public auction sale of lots owned by the Township of Stillwater and no longer needed for public use on March 16, 2021, pursuant to Resolution No. 2021-028.
WHEREAS, the Township received bids for the four (4) properties as follows:
Block 409, Lot 4, bid by Robert C. Taylor $ 250.00
Block 409, Lot 7, bid by Robert C. Taylor $ 250.00
Block 903, Lot 13, bid by Eric Heiberg $19,000.00
Block 2601, Lot 8, bid by David & Hulda Fisher $15,000.00
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Stillwater Township Committee that the following property sales are hereby approved:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED upon each bidder’s payment of the balance of the purchase price, along with the fees and costs provided for in Resolution 2021-028 and Ordinance 2021-02, as applicable, and their compliance with all requirements of Resolution 2021-028 and Ordinance 2021-02, as applicable, the Mayor and the Township Clerk are authorized to sign Quit Claim Deeds and such other documents, if any, for the four (4) properties being sold.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all terms and conditions contained in Resolution 2021-028 and Ordinance 2021-02, authorizing the sale are hereby incorporated into this resolution by reference.
This resolution shall take effect immediately.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-049 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-050 Authorizing Shared Service Agreement with Sussex County Municipal Utilities Authority for the Provision of Certified Recycling Professional Services to Certify and Submit the 2020 Recycling Tonnage Report to NJDEP
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater is required to submit a Certified Recycling Tonnage Report to NJDEP for the year 2020; and
WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater does not employ a Certified Recycling Professional required to file the Recycling Tonnage Report; and
WHEREAS, the Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act (N.J.S.A. 40A:65-1, et seq.) (hereinafter, “the Act”) provides that local units of government may enter into a contract to provide or receive any service that either local unit participating in the Agreement is empowered to provide or receive within its own jurisdiction, including services incidental to the primary purposes of any of the participating units (N.J.S.A. 40A:65-4); and
WHEREAS, Stillwater Township will prepare the 2020 Stillwater Township Recycling Tonnage Report; and
WHEREAS, Stillwater Township wishes to request the services of the SCMUA in the form of the District Recycling Coordinator as a Certified Recycling Professional to certify and submit the required 2020 Stillwater Township Tonnage Report to NJDEP by April 30, 2021; and
WHEREAS, SCMUA has the qualified staff to certify the Recycling Tonnage Report prepared by Stillwater Township and electronically submit it to NJDEP on behalf of Stillwater Township under the terms and conditions set forth in the Shared Services Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater as follows:
1. The Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute a Shared Services Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto, with SCMUA for the provision of Certified Recycling Professional Services to certify and submit the 2020 Recycling Tonnage Report to NJDEP.
2. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
3. All Township Staff and Professionals are authorized to take any and all necessary actions to see to the implementation of this Resolution.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-050 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-051 Assigning Tax Sale Certificate 2015-009 for Block 3504 Lot 11
WHEREAS, by public sale held on November 25, 2015, the Township of Stillwater purchased Tax Sale Certificate No. 2015-009 for property designated as Block 3504, Lot 11 on the Tax Maps of the Township of Stillwater assessed to John and Cynthia Charner; and
WHEREAS, M & V Liens has offered to purchase an assignment of said Tax Sale Certificate; and
WHEREAS, the Township is authorized to sell and assign at private sale Tax Sale Certificates which it holds pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 54:5-113; and
WHEREAS, the Township has heretofore complied with the mailing and posting requirements of notice of its intent to assign said Tax Sale Certificate pursuant to N.J.S.A. 54:5-114; and
WHEREAS, the total amount now due on Tax Sale Certificate 2015-009 including the original sale, together with all subsequent liens thereon is $95,584.56; and
WHEREAS, the Township has received from M & V Liens the amount of $95,584.56 for the assignment of said Tax Sale Certificate;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater that the Township shall assign Tax Sale Certificate No. 2015-009 to M & V Liens; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Clerk be and the same are hereby authorized to execute an Assignment of Tax Sale Certificate on behalf of Stillwater Township.
After a discussion the township committee decided the property was worth far more than the tax lien and decided to begin an in-rem foreclosure on the property.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-051 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, no, Mr. Morrison, no, Mr. Scott, no, Mayor Chammings, no.
RESOLUTION 2021-052 RESOLUTION RESCINDING APPOINTMENT OF ROBERT HUBER AS PROVISIONAL ZONING OFFICER
WHEREAS, On March 22, 2021, by Resolution #2021-045, Robert Huber was appointed as the provisional zoning officer for Stillwater Township, effective as of April 1, 2021; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Huber subsequently informed the Mayor and Township Committee that he is unable to accept the position.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Mayor and Committee of Stillwater Township in the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey confirms the rescission of the appointment of Mr. Huber as the Township’s Zoning Officer. A letter confirming Mr. Huber’s decision not to accept the position and the Township Committee’s rescinding the appointment shall be sent to Mr. Huber.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-052 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
RESOLUTION 2021-053 RESOLUTION APPOINTING JOSEPH GOLDEN AS PROVISIONAL ZONING OFFICER
WHEREAS, Arlene Fisher resigned her position as the Code Enforcement/Zoning Officer for the Township of Stillwater, effective March 31, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Township Committee have recommended that Planning and Zoning Engineer, Joseph Golden, temporarily fill the position as the provisional Township Zoning Officer, pending a more permanent applicant.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Mayor and Committee of Stillwater Township in the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey confirms the provisional appointment of Joseph Golden to the Township Zoning Officer Position, subject to the following terms and conditions:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that his employment is subject to the usual terms and conditions as set forth in the Township of Stillwater Personnel Policy Manual, as well as New Jersey Court Rules and Civil Service Law.
A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-053 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Old School House Road complaint: A complaint was received by a resident on a property on Old School House Road. That premises has a zoning permit allowing for tree removal (with no stump removal at this time) and a new home envelope. The premise also has a permit from Soil Conservancy that expires on June 26, 2021 so the property owners have until June 26 to complete the work.
Town Hall Hours/Re-Opening: Mayor Chammings said with the uptick in COVID cases in Sussex County town hall would not be opening until summer at the earliest. Mayor Chammings also asked the township committee their opinion to up the receptionists’ hours to help cover town hall in the zoning officer’s absence.
A motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey to give Ms. Tighe six additional hours per week (from 20 to 26 hours) seconded by Mr. Scott. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.
Recreational Cannabis Law: Mr. Bolcato will be providing the township committee with an ordinance prohibiting all cannabis licenses until the State of New Jersey provides regulations for the new law to its municipalities and the township committee has the opportunity to discuss.
OPEN PUBLIC SESSION
Mrs. Kathy Draghi, County Road 619, asked if Mr. Golden would have a conflict because he is the Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustment attorney. Mayor Chammings said if there is a code enforcement issue Township Engineer Mike Vreeland would step in. Mrs. Draghi asked if the month appointment was renewable. Mayor Chammings answered it was for six months but they hoped to have a permanent zoning officer before then. Mrs. Draghi also asked if the new fire truck was included in Ordinance 2021-05. Mayor Chammings said it is and would cost $825,000.00 including bonding costs. Mrs. Draghi asked when Kittatinny High School would finalize their budget. Mayor Chammings said the school board is looking to eliminate 8 to 12 positions and once they accomplish that feat the budget could be finalized.
Mr. Eric Heilberg asked what was left to finish the property sale where he purchased a lot. Mayor Chammings said the township committee had to formally accept their bids before the attorney could prepare the deeds. The only thing left is for Mr. Heilberg to forward the $275 closing costs.
ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Mr. Bolcato said he had nothing further to report.
Mayor Chammings told the public the township committee had suspended their executive session and they would be re-entering executive session now. Mayor Chammings told the audience they could wait outside until the conclusion but there will be no action when they return to public session. Executive Session concluded at 9:01 p.m.
ADJ OURNMENT
There being no further business, Mrs. Rumsey made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. Scott at 9:02 p.m. In a voice vote, all were in favor.
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